Victor Cruz's relationship with the New York Giants has seen its ups and downs this offseason. The wide receiver is looking for a new contract from the team and is requesting to be one of the most highly paid players in the game. Instead of giving him the money he wants, the Giants made him a restricted free agent, putting a first-round tender in hopes no other team make a bid for him. As contract negotiations between the two parties stall, Cruz did head down to Duke University to spend some time with quarterback Eli Manning in preparation for the upcoming season.

Both Manning brothers are down at Duke holding their annual Manning Passing Camp. The two spent time working on passing routes and regaining chemistry after a few months away from each other. Cruz is not letting the contract negotiations get in the way of preparation for 2013. Manning known Cruz wants a new deal and hopes he remains with the team.

"I hope so. I know he wants everything to get finished and be with the Giants and get back to work. It was great to get him here for a few days and I haven't seen these guys in a while," Manning said.

Manning has voiced his support for Cruz's efforts to get paid. Earlier in March, Manning said he would be willing to restructure his contract in order for the Giants to have more financial options to re-sign Cruz to his desired deal. Justin Tuck and is also supporting Cruz, saying that he hopes Cruz shows up at offseason workouts and lets his love for the team known.

"I can't answer questions for Victor, he has to do what's best for him. And hopefully, when it's all said and done, he's doing a salsa in a Giants uniform this season, that's all I'm worried about," Tuck said.

The Giants do not expect to see Cruz at next week's team workout program. Teams have until April 19 to make an offer on Cruz or else he will remain with in New York. If a team does want Cruz, they will have to give him his desired contract along with trading a first-round pick the Giants. So far, no one has shown interest.