Justin Tuck is an avid collector of vintage sneakers. He’s somewhat of a traditionalist, having worn the classic Notre Dame uniform before slipping into the classic blues of the New York Giants. Could that striking Silver and Black be next?
Tuck has gone west to visit with the Raiders on  Wednesday, according to ESPN. That could signal the end of his stay with the Giants. The Raiders headed into NFL free agency with an enormous amount of cash – they were $60 million under the salary cap – and they are going to have to spend their money on someone, or two, or three. Plus, the Raiders are always attracted to big names and Tuck, with his captaincy of the Giants, two Super Bowl rings, Subway commercials and high-profile presence, certainly qualifies.
Linebacker LaMarr Woodley, recently cut by the Steelers, will also pay a visit to the Raiders.
Although Tuck has maintained all along he wants to return to the Giants – in fact, he’s stressed his desire to retire as a Giant – he’s never said anything about accepting some sort of significant hometown discount. After two disappointing seasons slowed by injuries, Tuck rebounded in 2013, coming on strong to finish with 11 sacks in his ninth year with the Giants. He knows this will almost definitely be his last NFL contract and he wants to cash in. The Raiders in many ways are the polar opposites of the Giants, and not only because of their location, and if there’s a big offer waiting for Tuck, he will have to weigh leaving the stability of the Giants for the instability of the Raiders. Of course, money often speaks loudest of all. The Giants want Tuck back but are not going to get into a bidding war to keep him.
The Raiders might need Tuck more than he needs them, as they lost their best pass rusher, Lamarr Houston, who signed with the Bears.