Three weeks ago, Mario Manningham had three critical catches during one of the most important drives in Giants history.
It now appears increasingly likely they will be the last three receptions of his career in New York.
Manningham has "virtually no chance" to return to the Giants and is expected to follow former Giants' assistant Mike Sullivan to the Buccaneers, sources at the NFL Scouting Combine told CBSSports.com.
Sullivan was named the Bucs' new offensive coordinator earlier this month.
Manningham, 25, fell to third on the wide receiver depth chart in New York when Victor Cruz rose to prominence and joined Hakeem Nicks as the Giants' preeminent 1-2 punch. Manningham reportedly wants to play in warm weather and be part of an offense where he is a focal point -- two things that can be accomplished by joining Tampa Bay.
His best season came in 2010, when Manningham finished with 60 receptions for 944 yards and nine touchdowns. Injuries limited him to 12 games this season, as he finished with 39 catches for 523 yards and four scores.
Manningham won't be the first player to cash in on a strong Super Bowl performance (Larry Brown, anyone?). And while he doesn't possess the raw skills of a true No. 1 receiver, Manningham proved in his four seasons in New York he's fully capable of being a playmaker. Just ask Bill Belichick.
