Giants WR Hakeem Nicks Better Realize He is Entering a Career-Defining Year

Jul 28, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) during training camp at the Quest Diagnostic Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim O

New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is coming off a disappointing year and has been dealing with injuries all offseason. Nicks is now entering a contract year and needs to understand that the 2013 season will go a long way in determining how his football career plays out.

It sounds like Nicks is finally healthy and will be joining the Giants training camp activities according to Ralph Vacchiano:

According to Rotoworld, Nicks has stated he understands the weight of the upcoming season and has said his “career counts” on his staying healthy this season.

That would be ideal.

It’s good to hear Nicks understands the seriousness of the situation. He had back to back 1,000 yards season in 2010 and 2011 before laying an egg last year with only 692 yards and three scores while hampered by injuries.

Now in a contract year and with fellow receiver Victor Cruz recently signing a six year $45.879 million contract, there may not be enough cash to go around if Nicks fails to stay healthy.

A repeat performance can and will make Nicks expendable with guys like Rueben Randle and Ramses Barden waiting in the wings for chances to play.

Nick will be sure to find plenty of cash on the open market considering he is only 25, but he could be leaving a great situation in which defenses free him up a bit as they focus on Cruz. He may not find that luxury elsewhere.

It’s time for Nicks to stay healthy and have career numbers.

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