Professional career
At the NFL Combine Jonathan had impressive scores. In the 40, Jonathan posted a 4.96. He also completed a 410-pound bench press.
[edit]Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals drafted Jonathan with the 233rd pick in the 7th Round. Jonathan was back living in American Samoa during the draft. Once Jonathan arrived in Cincinnati, he received number 68. Jonathan is teammates with Domata Peko, another Samoan-born player. Jonathan was quoted from the Cincinnati Post about the new members;
"To be honest, it does make me more comfortable," said Fanene. "I'm used to being around different races but seeing the same nationality around you and having your friends from back home, it makes me happy to work with them." (the quote was in reference to Domata Peko and Matt Toeaina, both Samoan-born players on the Bengals at the time; however, Matt Toeaina was cut during the 2007 season.)
Unfortunately, Jonathan has been slowed by injuries including a hamstring injury in the off-season prior to the 2006 campaign. Jonathan was able to play in four of the final five games of the 2006 season. Jonathan looks to make an impact in the 2007 season. Reportedly, the Baltimore Ravens have expressed interest in Jonathan. Whether the Bengals trade him or not the decision will made in the upcoming off-season. Jonathan has come on strong this year and was instrumental in Cincinnati's victory over Baltimore. In that game he forced a fumble from quarterback Steve McNair. On February 22, 2008, the Bengals and Fanene reached an agreement on a three year extension.
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