Report: Visanthe Shiancoe turned down offer from Seattle

There are some name tight ends that remain on the open market, including Jeremy Shockey, but at least one of them has turned down a contract offer.

Visanthe Shiancoe visited the Seattle Seahawks way back in March and according to Tom Pelissero of 1500 ESPN, he turned down a one-year contract offer that was worth roughly $1.2 million.

Shiancoe, who turned 32 earlier this month, has been a model of durability throughout his career. He hasn’t missed a single game in his nine seasons, the last five spent as a member of the Minnesota Vikings.

Shiancoe made 36 receptions for 409 yards and three touchdowns in a dysfunctional Minnesota offense last season. The Vikings have moved on, hoping former Notre Dame standout Kyle Rudolph is ready to flourish. The club also invested big in John Carlson, giving the ex-Seahawk a $25 million, five-year contract.

It could be Shiancoe believes he is worth more than $1.2 million, just a shade over the minimum for a player with nine years experience. But the open market can be a cruel place for veterans who are on the wrong side of 30.

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune