Victor Cruz wasn’t surprised when he heard of the reported 10-year, $240 million contract Robinson Cano landed from the Seattle Mariners with the help of their shared agency.
The Giants wide receiver followed Cano in joining Roc Nation Sports and CAA this summer because he had faith in Jay Z and the vision the hip-hop mogul and former Nets part-owner had for representing athletes.
“The proof is in the deal,” Cruz said Friday. “It’s a big day for them.”
Cruz said the contract he inked in the summer, for six years and $46 million, mostly was negotiated by his agent, Tom Condon. Jay Z reportedly had a more active hand in the Cano deal, and Cruz thinks the move will bode well for the future of Roc Nation Sports.
“It’s just a stepping stone,” Cruz said. “It’s proof anything can be done if you put your mind into it and you have the type of backing and the type of people you have around you that do the right thing and understand the business — anything can be done.
“It’s a true testament to the way [Jay Z] does his business, and the way he goes about it — the right way.”
Cruz said he planned to congratulate Jay Z and Cano via text message later in the day.
“I’m ecstatic,” Cruz said. “I know [Cano] personally. He’s a good dude, he’s a great guy. I’m happy he was able to get the deal I know he wanted.”
A New Jersey product, Cruz will still root for the Yankees, but he will keep an eye on the Mariners now, too.
“Im a Robinson Cano fan, I’ll tell you that,” he said.
Jason Pierre-Paul will miss his second straight game with a right shoulder injury, though coach Tom Coughlin said he doesn’t expect the defensive end to be shut down, and said Pierre-Paul will play again this year. … Cornerback Corey Webster (ankle) is also out, running back Brandon Jacobs (knee) is doubtful and cornerback Trumaine McBride (groin) is questionable. Tight end Brandon Myers (groin) and cornerback Terrell Thomas (knee) are probable.
Coughlin did say McBride “looks like he’s going to be OK,” His availability will be important against the Chargers aerial attack, led by quarterback Philip Rivers.
Pierre-Paul’s absence should give rookie defensive lineman Damontre Moore an opportunity to get more reps. The Giants’ third round pick out of Texas A&M saw his most action of the season in last Sunday’s 24-17 win over the Redskins, getting in on 17 plays. His biggest moments have come on special teams, where he blocked a punt that led to a touchdown.
“Honestly, just go out there and play as hard as I can,” said Moore, who has totaled six tackles in limited action this year. “Everything will take of itself. It’s worked so far. Everything will take care of itself. It’s like riding a bike, you never forget how to do it.”
Chargers left tackle King Dunlap is expected to return Sunday after missing three games with a neck injury, meaning San Diego could be at full strength on its offensive line for the first time since Sept. 22.