Heading into the Draft, I Had Other Names in Mind.

With the NFL Draft just around the corner, I couldn’t help but think back to 2014—a bold move that changed the Giants’ offense. It’s Throwback Thursday, and today we’re looking at when the Giants drafted wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. with the 12th overall pick.

Honestly, I was surprised. Odell felt a bit undersized to be a true WR1, and I wasn’t convinced he’d be the right fit for Eli Manning. At the time, I was really hoping the Giants would go after Mike Evans. He had that big frame and seemed like the perfect red zone target. Sammy Watkins didn’t impress me much either, so I was skeptical about taking a wide receiver that early.

The Giants Had Options—and I Thought They’d Go O-Line.

Going into that draft, it seemed like offensive line was a major need. I thought Taylor Lewan or Zack Martin made a lot of sense for where we were. The offensive line had struggled, and protecting Eli had to be a top priority. There were also whispers about tight end Eric Ebron, another big target who might have added a different dimension to the offense.

Some mock drafts even had the Giants taking Aaron Donald. As great as he turned out, I never saw the Giants going that route. Jerry Reese, the GM at the time, always seemed to keep the defensive tackle position stocked. He also had a knack for finding talent at wide receiver, so in hindsight, maybe we should’ve trusted his instincts more.

Odell’s Talent Was Unforgettable—Even If It Was Brief.

Once Odell hit the field, everything changed. Despite the questions about his size, his speed, hands, and route-running were electric. That one-handed catch against Dallas? Instantly iconic. He brought energy and excitement back to the Giants’ offense, even if his time in New York was shorter than we’d hoped.

Looking back, I may not have seen it coming, but Odell Beckham Jr. was a game-changer.

🛍️ Rep the Team, No Matter What!

Even through the ups and downs, we bleed blue. And if you’re gearing up for a fresh season, there’s no better way than with the just-released Russell Wilson New York Giants jersey. It’s a bold new chapter—make sure you’re suited up for it.
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The past is behind us. A new season is coming, and hope is alive. Want to be there when the Giants start writing a new chapter? Head to StubHub to grab your tickets for the home opener at MetLife Stadium!

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The post Odell Beckham Jr.’s Draft Day with the New York Giants first appeared on Bleedbigblue.com.

Every New York Giants fan remembers Victor Cruz. His story is the stuff of legends. From an undrafted free agent to a Super Bowl hero, Cruz embodied the underdog spirit. He played with passion, grit, and something extra—a chip on his shoulder.

From Undrafted to Unstoppable

Victor Cruz’s journey began at UMass. Despite his talent, he went undrafted in 2010. However, the Giants took a chance on him, and it paid off. In his rookie preseason, Cruz exploded onto the scene with three touchdowns against the Jets. Fans saw his potential, but it wasn’t until 2011 that he truly became a star.

In 2011, Cruz set the franchise record for receiving yards in a season. He recorded an incredible 1,536 yards. His salsa dance celebration became iconic. Consequently, Cruz wasn’t just playing; he was proving everyone who doubted him wrong. Every touchdown became a reason to celebrate, and his dance moves went viral, bringing joy to fans everywhere.

The Driving Force: A Chip on His Shoulder

Victor Cruz played with something to prove. He once said, “I play with a chip on my shoulder every game, every practice. That’s what drives me.” This mentality was clear in every play. Cruz was not the biggest or fastest receiver, but he had heart and determination.

Therefore, this chip on his shoulder made him a nightmare for defenders. He was relentless, always pushing for more. In big moments, Cruz delivered. His 99-yard touchdown against the Jets in 2011 is unforgettable. It was a statement to everyone who doubted his abilities. Moreover, his salsa dance after each touchdown became a signature, symbolizing his triumph over adversity.

The Struggles: Overcoming Injuries

However, Cruz’s journey wasn’t without challenges. In 2014, he suffered a devastating knee injury that ended his season. The following year, he faced a calf injury that kept him off the field. These setbacks were tough, but Cruz remained determined. He worked tirelessly to make a comeback. In 2016, he returned to the Giants, showing flashes of his former brilliance. Although injuries limited his playing time, Cruz’s resilience and work ethic inspired both teammates and fans.

More Than Salsa: Legacy and Lessons for Future Giants

Cruz’s career with the Giants was filled with highlights. He played a key role in the Giants’ 2011 Super Bowl run. His clutch catches and big plays were crucial. But beyond stats and wins, Cruz left a lasting impact on the team and its fans.

Additionally, he taught us that hard work and belief can overcome any obstacle. Cruz’s story is one of perseverance. He showed that no matter where you start, you can reach greatness with dedication and heart. His viral salsa dance celebrations added a unique flair, making every game entertaining and memorable. However, Cruz was more than just salsa. He was a symbol of determination and resilience.

Ultimately, Victor Cruz’s legacy is a reminder of what it means to be a Giant. His journey from undrafted to unstoppable is inspiring. As fans, we cherish those moments and look forward to seeing future Giants carry that same spirit.

In every game and practice, Cruz’s chip on his shoulder drove him. It’s a mentality that defines champions. Victor Cruz will always be remembered as one of the greats who played with heart, soul, and something to prove.

Victor Cruz More Than Salsa was originally published on bleedbigblue.com

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Harry Carson is more than a football legend. He is the embodiment of leadership. As a die-hard New York Giants fan, I can tell you, Harry Carson’s legacy is unparalleled. His journey with the Giants is a testament to perseverance and resilience. He is the Giants’ legendary leader.

A Leader on and off the Field

Carson’s leadership wasn’t confined to the locker room. He led by example on and off the field. His commitment to the team and the game was evident in every play. Carson’s influence extended beyond his teammates. Fans and future players looked up to him. His dedication and work ethic were infectious.

Overcoming Challenges

Harry Carson faced many challenges throughout his career. He battled constant injuries and setbacks. Yet, he never let these obstacles define him. Carson believed that “Success in life is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” This quote perfectly captures his approach to life and football. He confronted every challenge head-on, with unwavering courage.

Career Highlights

Harry Carson’s career is filled with remarkable highlights. Selected in the fourth round of the 1976 NFL Draft, Carson quickly made his mark. He was a key player in the Giants’ defense. Over his 13-season career, Carson was selected to nine Pro Bowls. He earned All-Pro honors seven times. One of his most significant achievements was helping lead the Giants to victory in Super Bowl XXI. Carson’s leadership and performance were instrumental in the team’s success.

A Beacon of Courage

Carson’s courage was a beacon for the Giants. When the going got tough, Carson got tougher. Consequently, he became the anchor the team needed during difficult times. Additionally, his resilience inspired his teammates to push through their own struggles. Ultimately, his courage was contagious.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Harry Carson didn’t just play the game; he mentored future Giants. His leadership helped shape the careers of many young players. He was always ready to offer advice and support. Carson’s influence ensured the Giants’ legacy continued long after his retirement.

Legacy Beyond the Game

Carson’s impact goes beyond his playing days. He continues to be a role model for many. His work in the community is as impressive as his football career. He uses his platform to make a difference. Carson embodies the spirit of the Giants in every way.

The post Harry Carson: The Giants’ Legendary Leader first appeared on Bleedbigblue.com.

Eli Manning, the famous quarterback for the New York Giants, gave one of my favorite quotes after Super Bowl XLVI: “Pressure is something you feel when you don’t know what the hell you’re doing.” This quote perfectly captures Manning’s career and the spirit of our Giants.

Super Bowl XLVI, on February 5, 2012, was unforgettable. The Giants played the New England Patriots. The stakes were high, but Eli led us to a thrilling 21-17 victory. He earned his second Super Bowl MVP award. This win was especially sweet because we had beaten the Patriots in Super Bowl XLII four years earlier. Manning led us to another amazing victory.

Eli Manning’s Poise Under Pressure

During the post-game press conference, a reporter asked Manning about handling the intense pressure. Eli’s response, “Pressure is something you feel when you don’t know what the hell you’re doing,” was classic Eli—calm, confident, and accurate. It showed how preparation and knowledge can turn pressure into performance. Eli wasn’t just playing football; he was following a plan he knew well. This is why he could stay cool under the most intense circumstances.

This quote resonates deeply with me and many other fans. It’s more than just a soundbite; it’s a life lesson. Eli’s ability to stay calm in high-stress moments wasn’t just luck. It was the result of careful preparation and a deep understanding of the game. Remember that amazing game-winning drive in the final minutes of Super Bowl XLVI? It was a masterclass in staying calm and executing under pressure.

For us Giants fans, this quote reminds us why we love Eli. It speaks to a broader truth: confidence and calmness in the face of adversity come from being prepared and knowing your stuff. Whether in sports, work, or any part of life, feeling overwhelmed often comes from not being ready. Eli’s words inspire us to prepare well and face challenges head-on, just like he did on that glorious night in Indianapolis.

The post Eli Manning: Always Calm Under Pressure first appeared on Bleedbigblue.com.

Ideas started to surface to have Lawrence Taylor wrestle WWE big man Bam Bam Bigelow for this big spot.

“It was probably December by the time we got with LT. He had announced his retirement and all that, and I wanna say it was after Survivor Series…..again, looking outside of our business and you look at who is gonna face Lawrence Taylor, you’re looking at a big monster of a man with a very unique look that can handle himself in the ring with LT and be able to take LT through a match and know he would be able to get that job done. That was Bam Bam.”

Bruce Prichard WWE executive

LT was joined by several NFL football players to prevent interference from members of DiBiase’s Million Dollar Corporation, who accompanied Bigelow to the ring. The football players in Taylor’s corner included Steve McMichael, Chris Speilman, Carl Banks, Ken Norton Jr., Rickey Jackson, and Reggie White.

During the match, Taylor quickly gained the upper hand and landed a powerful clothesline that sent Bigelow tumbling out of the ring. However, once Bigelow returned, he took control by relentlessly kicking Taylor and applying a painful Boston crab submission hold to target his opponent’s back.

Despite the odds, Taylor managed to break free from the hold and executed a suplex to throw Bigelow off balance. Bigelow fought back with a series of headbutts and a spectacular moonsault flip that left Taylor reeling on the mat.

However, Taylor refused to stay down and mounted a fierce comeback, only to be knocked down again by a vicious headbutt from Bigelow. Undeterred, Taylor climbed the ropes and launched himself towards Bigelow, striking him with a forearm smash that left the wrestler stunned. Taylor then pinned Bigelow to secure a hard-fought victory.

Taylor’s performance in the match helped to catapult the WWE into the mainstream and paved the way for outsiders to participate in the industry. By breaking down that barrier, Taylor left an indelible mark on professional wrestling.

The post Throwback: Lawrence Taylor Headlines WrestleMania first appeared on Bleedbigblue.com.

Today’s Throwback Thursday are the legends who returned to camp earlier this week to offer their support. Phil Simms, Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka

New York Giants Head Coach Joe Judge speaking on Giants legend returning to camp.

As always, once a Giant Always a Giant.

The post Giants Legends Return To Camp. first appeared on Bleedbigblue.com.

Sixteen years later, I’m working from home.  My wife is pregnant.  My son will be here before the start of the season. My phone set to send me alerts whenever Twitter has an update about the Giants pursuit of a free agent wide receiver.  The lesson, you ask?  As much as life changes, it stays the same…

Eli Manning was entering his second season. He had taken over for Kurt Warner just after the midway point of his rookie campaign. Despite stumbling to a 1-6 record, he had beaten the hated Cowboys in his final game of the season and there was optimism around Peyton’s kid brother.  The Giants were committed to getting him top-notch help.  To paraphrase Bill Parcells, you can’t make a gourmet meal without solid ingredients.

Plaxico Burress was 6’6”  A lean 232 pounds, he ran like a gazelle.  He had played college ball in The Big 10 at Michigan State.  Draft with the 8^th overall selection by the Steelers four years earlier, it stands to reason the Giants had inside intel.  After all, the Rooneys and the Maras are connected by marriage.  No doubt, Burress looked the part.  Many around the league believed Burress could make the leap; to bonafide, unquestioned number one wide receiver.  The Giants saw the potential for a duo that would come of age together.

Still, Burress only had 22 career touchdowns across five seasons, and was coming off an injury-marred 2004 season, that saw the veteran play only eleven games.

Burress had just hired a new agent, after failing to secure a deal in the first week of free agency.  Rumor had it that Plax was asking for more money than the Giants wanted to give,  and refusing a physical.  Enter Drew Rosenhaus.  A week prior, the Giants had publicly stated they were moving on.  Their offer was back on the table now.  Six years, $25 million (making him one of the highest paid receivers of the day), contingent on that physical Burress had refused. 

Burress arrived at The Meadowlands on a Thursday morning.  Passed the physical and signed the deal.  He had a good run with the Giants.  Eli had his elite talent on the outside.  The chemistry was immediate.  The duo connected for 33 touchdowns across 4 seasons, terrorizing the NFC East along the way.  Burress played the single greatest game I’ve seen a wide receiver play in sub zero temperatures at Lambeau Field in the 2007 NFC Championship.  

Super Bowl XLII. “Burress… Alone, TOUCHDOWN, NEW YORK!!! 19-1

The Giants were 10-1 the following year, arguably the best team in the league, when Burress shot himself in the leg. What could have been.

Sixteen years later Giants fans anxiously await news on the signing of free agent wide receiver, Kenny Golladay. He’s 6,4” 214 pounds.  Big Blue hopes he can be to Daniel Jones what Plax was to the G.O.A.T.  A weapon that enables Jones to reach his potential.

He played in the Big 10 (Rutgers) and has 22 touchdowns in his four-year career. The Giants have inside info on Golladay.  Joe Judge and Matt Patricia are old pals dating back to their Patriots days. Kyle O’Brien was part of the brain trust that drafted Golladay for the Lions in 2017.  The Giants hired him this offseason. Due to COVID, in person visits are rare prior to signing contracts these days.  The Giants want an in-person old-style visit, prior to an extending offer in hopes of easing concerns over a balky hip that cost Golladay all but five games in Detroit last year.

Sound familiar?

The Giants need Golladay, just like they needed Plaxico sixteen years ago.  

The more things change, the more they stay the same…

At least I hope so.

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