Victor Cruz is aware that with the right amount, the New York Giants could have one of the best wide receiving corps in the NFL. The team was hoping to have that in 2013, but a few holdouts hurt chemistry with quarterback Eli Manning. Cruz is confident that will not be a reoccurring theme in 2014, but it all rests on Hakeem Nicks re-signing with the team.
Nicks will be a free agent this offseason and is looking for a solid pay raise. Despite having a very disappointing 2013 season, he wants a top-dollar deal. Cruz is pushing for the Giants to give it to him even though New York has other needs in free agency.
"I have (asked him to stay) Cruz said, via NJ.com. "Selfishly, I would love for him to stay."
Nicks may want a big contract, but his recent production does not work in his favor. The wide receiver has put up disappointing back-to-back seasons after two consecutive 1,000-play yard years. Nicks has suffered numerous injuries that have caused him to miss games. Not to mention his holdout for no reason prior to the 2013 season. He did not earn any compliments from head coach Tom Coughlin after failing to show up to organized team activities for now reason. Cruz admitted that hurt chemistry throughout the year.
It is no surprise that Cruz would want Nicks back for the long-term. As Nicks struggled in 2013, most of the defensive attention fell on Cruz. He spent most of the year getting double teamed by defenses, hurting production all around. There were not too many highlight reel touchdown passes for the Giants and a lot of the blame has fallen on Nicks.
Cruz is no stranger to the free agency process. He just recently signed his own long-term contract extension after back and forth negotiations last offseason. He has been advising Nicks on the entire process and remains hopeful the wide receiver will consider a return to New York.
If Nicks decides to make the most of free agency, several teams will take a look at him. The New York Jets could certainly be a team interested. Right now they are in desperate need of a big time playmaker. The Jets are reportedly targeting Jeremy Maclin, but the wide receiver is leaning towards remaining in Philadelphia. The Oakland Raiders are another option considering they will have money to spend.
The chances Nicks returns to New York are slim. The team is cash strapped and may not offer him the contract he desires.
