The Victor Cruz saga is over. The wide receiver has finally signed his long awaited contract extension with the New York Giants worth $45 million. The story was the headline of the Giants' offseason as Cruz was noticeably absent during organized team activities before appearing at a team mandatory minicamp. Now, as New York begins preparations for the upcoming season with both of their big-play receivers in place, many players are just happy to move on from the contract drama.
Quarterback Eli Manning told the New York Post that he was simply happy to be able to move on and not have to talk about the contract extension anymore. Manning was clearly upset during offseason workouts as Cruz and Hakeem Nicks held out. He was forced to get back into football shape with receivers no one recognized.
"It's going to be nice to not have to answer any more questions about Victor and his contract status with the team. It's great to get Victor signed long-term and before the start of training camp. Obviously, he has been a big part of our offense. He has worked really hard on the field to become the player he is and I look forward to continuing our work together," Manning said.
Manning is not the only Giant thrilled Cruz will be in New York for many years to come. Safety Antrel Rolle told the NFL Network that the entire team is extremely relieved the contract was finally complete.
"He is a huge part of our offense and, more importantly, he gives me my best work when I am in practice, especially when I am in the slot," Rolle said. "We are just glad to have everything behind us."
However, the contract drama is only just beginning for the New York Giants. While one receiver is officially signed to a new deal, another is patiently waiting in the wings for his turn. Nicks is entering the final year of his contract with the Giants and is expected to command something in the range of what Cruz signed for. Cruz is concerned there is not enough money for the Giants to secure Nicks as well.
"I'm concerned as a teammate and as a friend," Cruz told the New York Daily News. "Because I want to see Hakeem around in Giants blue as long as we're together in the National Football League. But there's ways to do things. There's ways that you can create space."
Cruz understands there are going to be tough decisions to be made when it comes to getting Nicks a new contract. Injuries are an issue. His position is an issue. Nicks is considered the better player, but the Giants will have to work hard to give him a new deal.
