Tashawn Manning signs with the Baltimore Ravens

Former Kentucky lineman and OVW intern, Tashawn Manning, has signed an undrafted free-agent contract with the Baltimore Ravens. It comes with a $20,000 signing bonus and a $20,000 base salary guarantee.

Kentucky snagged Manning out of the transfer portal for his super senior season, having come from Auburn. He joined Kentucky in the spring semester and immediately earned the starting position at right guard.

After participating in the NFLPA Bowl during the pre-draft process, Manning used a strong performance to earn an invite to Indianapolis for the NFL Combine where he put up impressive athletic data. Manning also showed off his power guard ability and apparently made a good impression on the Baltimore staff.

At the combine, Manning praised Kentucky, saying his time in Lexington prepared him for the next level.

“They got me ready for the situation that I’m in right now,” Manning told reporters about Kentucky at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday morning. “Talking to media, preparing on the field, talking to coaches, staying in the film room, and just being an overall prepared player to perform on the next level.

Just looking for the better opportunity to go out there and show what I can do on the field. I felt like Kentucky was that opportunity I needed to put myself in a situation that I’m in now.”

Tashawn Manning | On3

Although he did not mention his time at OVW during his NFL combine press conference, one can’t help but believe (or hope) his time in and around the squared circle gave him a tremendous experience boost as well. Matt Jones had nothing but glowing reviews for the Central Florida native during his time with the wrestling organization.

Now that he is signed, Manning will battle for a spot on the final roster at training camp. Go get ’em, Tashawn. Make Kentucky (and OVW) proud.