Upon graduating college, Manhertz, who had never before played football and whose only experience with the game came from the Madden NFL series,[5] began training to change sports and pursue a career in professional football. He was offered a tryout from the Buffalo Bills and was signed a future/reserve contract in May 2015, although coach Rex Ryan admitted his chances of making the roster were a longshot. He did not make the Bills' final roster after training camp and the pre-season.
New Orleans Saints
Manhertz joined the New Orleans Saints after being released by the Bills and spent the season on the Saints' practice squad.[6] Manhertz made the Saints' active roster to start the 2016 season and made his NFL debut on September 18, 2016.[7] He was released on October 16, 2016.
Carolina Panthers
Manhertz was claimed off waivers by the Carolina Panthers on October 17, 2016.[8]
He played in 16 games with four starts in 2017 in place of the injured Greg Olsen, recording two catches for 17 yards. He suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 17 and was placed on injured reserve.[9]
On January 29, 2019, Manhertz signed a two-year contract extension with the Panthers and was named the starter for the 2020 season.[11]
Jacksonville Jaguars
On March 17, 2021, Manhertz signed a two-year, $6.65 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars.[12] During a Week 1 game against the Houston Texans, Manhertz caught a 22-yard touchdown pass from rookie quarterback Trevor Lawrence. It was the first career touchdown pass for Lawrence.[13]
Denver Broncos
On March 15, 2023, Manhertz signed a two-year contract with the Denver Broncos.[14] He was released on March 8, 2024.
