4 games does not a career make: The case for keeping Shockey

It is an incontrovertible fact that the Giants won all 4 of it's playoff games, en route to it's third Superbowl title, without standout tight end Jeremy Shockey in the lineup. But to make the logical leap that his injury directly lead to the success of the team in general and Eli Manning in particular, is completely without basis. One need look no further than Kevin Boss, Shockey's backup. When asked by a reporter from the New York Newsday about whether he would like Shockey back he emphatically responded in the affirmative. Furthermore, his response was not along the lines of "whatever the Giants organization does I'll support it." He said in Newsday, "Obviously, he's a better player than me. He can do some things I can't yet." This is a clear admission by Boss that he was merely a very fortunate beneficiary of great play by the Giants O-line, Manning and the double coverage that came Plaxico's way during the Gmen's run to glory. Speaking of double teams, you know who commands double teams, JEREMY SHOCKEY! He is too fast for linebackers and too strong for safeties and corners. Just ask Roy Williams.

The other issue of course is whether Eli wants him back. Eli's brilliant play in last year's playoffs has given him the right to have a gigantic input into any decision the Giant's front office makes regarding his offensive teammates. What did Eli say in Newsday?(best ny sports paper by far) "I hope he'll be a New York Giant next year." Thank you Eli for generously donating your time to SUS, your a class act. So, his franchise QB wants him back. The guy who could instantly become the starting tight-end on a defending championship team wants him back and he is a match-up disaster for any opponent. Yea, I want him back.