The New York Giants are remolding their roster with team-oriented players, ones that understand what it takes to win in this league. The Giants have lost their way, and general manager Dave Gettleman is trying to build a team from the rubble he inherited from Jerry Reese 18 months ago.
One of the players he has brought in this offseason is veteran wide receiver Golden Tate, who has averaged 90 receptions over the past five seasons and is widely regarded as one of the league’s most reliable and productive players.
Tate comes into the Giants’ locker room with a long history of success, starred at Notre Dame and has a Super Bowl ring. He is a refreshing change from previous players who lived on social media, hung around with rappers and were signed to large sneaker deals. In short, he won’t be taking the team on any boat trips.
Tate also told reporters on Thursday that he loves the fact that he is going to line up in different spots in this offense and has respect for the game and the organization.
One player he has high regard for is second-year running back Saquon Barkley, who came in last year, wrested the leadership role and became the face of the franchise.
Tate expounded on how solid the locker room was in only the first week of offseason workouts and talked about how new teammate, wide receiver Cody Latimer, “worked his [expletive] off” and was serious about improving his game this year.
In all, Tate is more than just words. He shows up to play. Since 2011, he’s only missed two games. He likes what he sees from his new team.
“We’ve got some serious talent,” said Tate. “I think we’re going to surprise some people.”
Before leaving the stage, he took a shot at the recently traded Odell Beckham Jr., the player he’s likely to be compared to by Giant fans going forward.
