While Victor Cruz launched himself into the public spotlight thanks to his salsa dancing touchdown celebrations, his recent demands for a big raise in salary has created a domino effect. While the Giants would like to sign Cruz to an extension, ESPN reported on Feb. 3 that his demands have made Hakeem Nicks' contract the Giants' primary target right now.
In his two years as a starting player for the Giants, Cruz has 168 receptions for 2,628 yards and 19 touchdowns. Nicks has played for four seasons, and has 255 receptions for 3,726 yards with 27 touchdowns. His two best seasons were 2010-2011, where he had 155 receptions for 2,224 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Nicks spent most of 2012 injured and limited. He played in 13 games, and only finished with 53 receptions for 692 yards and three touchdowns.
While Cruz has better numbers the last two seasons than Cruz did in his two best seasons, New York considers Nicks to be their number one wide receiver. Nicks is also one year younger than Cruz, who wants a big contract raise to re-sign with the Giants.
"We certainly want [Cruz] back, but like with any player, there's a limit to where we're going to go," Giants' owner John Mara said. "He's been a terrific player for us, he's a fan favorite, he does a lot for our franchise, but there is a limit."
Nicks was playing under a five-year, $11.15 million contract and is entering the final year of his contract, which will pay him $2.725 million. Cruz was playing under a three-year, $1.215 million contract and is a restricted free agent this offseason.
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