Players view counterparts on other teams as opponents but also as part of the same business partnership, which is why when a mega-contract is signed, usually everyone within the NFL is pleased. Something about a rising tide lifting all boats.
News that Ezekiel Elliott agreed to a massive deal that makes him the highest-paid running back in league history filtered into the Giants’ locker room Wednesday. It likely means Elliott will suit up Sunday in the season-opener against the Giants. It also meant a hugely talented and productive player got what the Giants believe was coming to him.
“I was definitely happy for him,’’ safety Jabrill Peppers said. “I personally think he deserves it.’’
“With how social media plays a big part in today’s world, you definitely see it,’’ linebacker Tae Davis told The Post. “Congrats to him for getting a big deal. That’s a test of how hard he’s worked and produced in this league. I know he’s happy. As a defense we just have to work our butts off to be able to execute and try to win a ballgame.’’
The task of hitting the road and beating the Cowboys will grow more difficult if Elliott takes the field. How many snaps he will play has yet to be determined, considering that Wednesday he ended a 40-day holdout, during which he missed all of training camp and the preseason action. Elliott cashed in with a six-year extension worth $90 million, linking him to the Cowboys for eight years and inflating his total contract to $102.9 million. He cannot buy the time he missed, though.
Since he arrived in the league in 2016, Elliott has more rushing yards (4,048) than any player in the NFL. It is unlikely Elliott could carry a full load in his first game back after such a long layoff, but for however long he is out there, the Giants know they need to deal with a rare talent.
“I’m not going to look too much into that,’’ Davis said in response to Elliot’s conditioning. “I know he’ll be ready.’’
Ready to run for 100 yards against the Giants?
“You can’t put it past him,’’ Davis said. “He’s one of the best in the league, there’s a reason why they paid him. He’s a pro, so I’m positive he’s in shape and he’s ready to go.
“With a back like that you got to be on your P’s and Q’s with everything you do. He can run in between the tackles, he has the speed to get to the edge, he can catch the ball well, he’s just a great all-around back. We definitely have our hands full.’’
