Free agency is equally a blessing and a curse for athletes and fans alike. It can be akin to that of a springtime version of Christmas. It can also break hearts. And for Giants fans everywhere, Justin Tuck’s exodus to the Raiders was a body blow that no one, Tuck included, ever saw coming.
So as it goes after nine years and two championships, Tuck wanted one last payday. And it didn’t matter where he got it, because very few of his stature would have even thought the Raiders would have been a destination even if it were clear that he would divorce himself from the only franchise he had known.
For Giants fans, as if the heartache of knowing that he’s likely retiring elsewhere weren’t enough, quotes from his introductory conference call was sure to raise a few eyebrows.
“I think the appeal was knowing what [Raiders GM] Reggie [McKenzie] had done in the previous spots he has been at. He has a true, honest feeling about him. The appeal is young talent needing leadership and the feel is just the opportunity to start fresh. Obviously, everyone knows I love the New York Giants and I appreciate nine years of my career being there, but I just wanted a new, fresh start and I think Oakland is definitely a good place to be. Everyone knows the fan base is great out here. I am looking forward to it.”
Maybe it’s just raw nerves, but it sure seems like there’s a bit of resentment over the fact that, in his eyes, Jerry Reese didn’t make a strong enough push in retaining his services. But the Giants brass (and fans) clearly know that Tuck’s injuries are becoming part of his career whether he chooses to admit it or not. And calling the Raiders “a fresh start” these days just screams payday over actually being excited to partake in a never-ending rebuilding project. He also said that he came to the Raiders “to win more Super Bowls.” Again, something said that is hard to accept with a straight face.
Tuck’s defection hurts the Giants more than they’d likely admit. His leadership will clearly be missed in more ways than his play. Eventually, though, the Giants have to let their crop of young defensive linemen swim on their own and it appears they were ready to throw them into the fire without their captain; hoping that Tuck’s mentoring took hold.
But in the end, money talks and you-know-what walks. The Giants felt Tuck’s better days were behind him and Tuck found someone who met his demands. A day like this is never easy when a legend walks, but it’s especially difficult to watch him leave for a franchise that has lacked direction for so long now. There are no winners in this and therefore you just hope that both sides can live with the result.
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