There is one big question that remains with the New York Giants: When will Victor Cruz sign? As offseason workouts begin, the elephant in the room is the pending long-term contract. Everyone continues to say they are hopeful the wide receiver signs soon, yet nothing has been done. In fact, the two sides seem farther apart than ever. While quarterback Eli Manning continues to say all the right things and tip-toe around the topic, he would like to get his top target back on the field.
Manning has been choosing his words wisely when it comes to Cruz. He continues to remain neutral on the fight to make Cruz one of the highest paid receivers in the league. He told New York Daily News that he is hopeful OTAs get Cruz back on the field.
"We get into some real practices next week. So hopefully as we get kind of into those live, going-against-a-defense practices, he will get back in so we can get back to work," Manning said.
As of now, Cruz is a holdout. He has yet to appear at the Giants facility. The only time he has been spotted putting in work was during a passing camp with Manning down at Duke University. It is assumed that something will have to give soon. Either Cruz will sign a large contract extension like he hopes or he will sign his restricted tender. He can become an unrestricted free agent at the end of next season, but would prefer to stay in New York.
Manning credits Cruz for helping cultivate younger receivers and would like to see him on the field helping rookies. While he would love to see the receiver at voluntary workouts, he is excited to see who steps up in his absence.
"I know each year you're gonna need new guys to step up. You're gonna lose some guys, something happens, you always want to be prepared," Manning said.
While everyone on the Giants continues to wait to see what happens with the Cruz situation, Manning is taking the business approach and staying out of contract talks. The quarterback understands the league is a business and everyone must do what is best for them. He believes holding out will put pressure on the other side to get a deal done.
"I have a feeling I'll see Victor here when the contract's done. That's my gut feel, and I could be wrong. If he's back here earlier, then that will be a bonus."