Many Giants won't be back next season
Mario Manningham of the New York Giants signals first down after catching a 38-yard pass from Eli Manning over Patrick Chung and Brian Witherspoon in the fourth quarter. (Feb. 5, 2012) Credit: Getty Images
One of the reasons the Giants had as much success as they did this season was the close bond they forged. Many cited their camaraderie and close relationships as a cause for their not giving up on the season and their desire to continue playing together throughout the postseason.
Tuesday, for the last time, they were all together as a football team.
The Giants have 21 free agents, plus several players whose contract situations are uncertain. In an age of salary caps and constant renegotiations, a good chunk of the roster will not be back next season.
"I think that's why we wanted it so badly," guard Kevin Boothe said. "It's such a tight group and we know that inevitably there are going to be changes and different faces in there. I think that's what made this run that much more special because of how close this group was on and off the field."
Business, it seems, will do what the Packers, 49ers and Patriots could not: break up these Giants.
"That's the sad part that comes every year," guard Chris Snee said. "But it's the game. Guys who have been around know that. If you had to go out one way, this is the way to go out, with this chapter."
Wide receiver Mario Manningham, a Super Bowl hero, is a free agent. His play helped the team win the title, but it also may have increased his market value and put him beyond what the Giants are willing to pay (especially if they want to keep Victor Cruz). Tackle Kareem McKenzie is another free agent, and if he departs, there will be another season of adjustments on an offensive line that was once the stabilizing force of the team.
Brandon Jacobs and Osi Umenyiora may have played their last games for the Giants. Meanwhile, a whole new rookie class will be drafted in April.
Most of the players will be back, though. The key ones such as Justin Tuck, Eli Manning and Hakeem Nicks do not appear to be going anywhere. That kind of infrastructure is what gives the Giants optimism in spite of the imminent changes.
Safety Antrel Rolle, who once considered bailing on the Giants but now appears to be a lifer, was asked if they can win another Super Bowl next year.
"Absolutely," he said. "Why not? We've already built the foundation, and once you have that, anything's possible."
Notes & quotes: The Giants announced that TE Jake Ballard tore his ACL in the Super Bowl, as did fellow TE Travis Beckum. With a recovery period of 7-8 months, neither is likely to be ready for the start of next season . . . Tom Coughlin took a call from Barack Obama on the bus while on his way to the parade in Manhattan. He said the president was impressed by the team's belief, perseverance and ability to win games in the fourth quarter. He also extended an invitation for a White House visit in the spring . . . P Steve Weatherford, a free agent, said he and the team are close to a new deal. "It's something I think is a priority for both sides," he said. "We should get something done." . . . Asked by a crew from a syndicated entertainment program about the comments by Tom Brady's wife, Gisele Bündchen, on Patriots receivers dropping passes, Brandon Jacobs said: "She just needs to continue to be cute and shut up."
