New York Giants: Justin Tuck supports Dave Gettleman’s vision

As the criticism from several moves made this offseason by New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman mounts, a franchise legend comes to the defense.

This very entertaining offseason for the New York Giants has seen many fans lose trust in the franchise’s future. The trading away of Odell Beckham Jr, not resigning Landon Collins and drafting Daniel Jones have each created uneasy tremors in the “Big Blue” community.

Justin Tuck played eight seasons for the G-Men, earning Pro Bowl honors twice while taking home two Super Bowl titles. He has known Giants general manager Dave Gettleman throughout his career in New York and had plenty to say to reporters while co-hosting the Newark Mentoring Movement’s annual charity golf outing at the Bayonne Golf Club on Monday.

"“Listen, I know Gettleman well. I know how he likes to build teams — or at least what his thoughts around that is, He’s putting his stamp on it. Regardless of if you like it or not, this is what it is.”"

Gettleman served as the Giants Pro personnel director from 1999-2011 responsible for helping to shape the team that won two Super Bowls. The Giants were led by players that were very blue-collar in nature such as Michael Strahan, Amani Toomer, and Tuck, as he would continue to explain during the interview.

"“I think culture’s more important,” Tuck said. “If you look at what the Patriots have done, outside of at the max five guys on that football team, anybody outside Boston doesn’t know 85 percent of that football team. But what they’ve done is they’ve brought in the right people that’s pulling the rope the same way."

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"“And when it comes to that, you don’t need the most talented team. Trust me, the most talented team I’ve been on didn’t win a Super Bowl (the 2008 Giants). I remember Philly having that year where they brought in what seemed like every All-Star that ever played the game. They didn’t win the Super Bowl. So at the end of the day, it has to start with culture, it has to start with the leadership of the football team. Obviously you need talent. Don’t get me wrong. You definitely need it. But I don’t necessarily know that it’s more important than the other two.”"

Gettleman served as the Carolina Panthers’ general manager from 2013-17 after leaving the Giants during the Jerry Reese era. Gettleman’s four seasons with the Panthers were successful in resurrecting the franchise winning three consecutive NFC South Division titles, an NFC Championship, and falling short in Super Bowl 50. His impressive track record and good reputation amongst many around the league are further indications of his unique vision.

Tuck is still a very influential member of the New York Giants ring of honor alumni so it’s possible fans will believe in his message. The Giants are rebuilding so it’s possible the Gettleman verdict may be delayed a few years.