Will Hill had to learn to rely on himself before his teammates could rely on him. To accomplish that goal, those teammates had to let Hill know how much he was needed.
That’s the lesson learned this season by the Giants’ up-and-coming safety. It could prove to be the most valuable lesson of his career.
Hill has the athleticism and ability to be a game-changer, and now he is in the proper place on the field — and in his life — following a suspension his rookie season and another for the first four games this season.
“We had to let Will know how much we need him on this team, and show him that we had trust in him,’’ veteran safety and team leader Antrel Rolle told The Post Friday as the Giants prepared for Sunday’s clash against the Chargers in San Diego.
“We let him know how much of a necessity he is to this team. Once he understood that he is needed and is wanted, it helps him as far as his transformation outside of football. You can’t let us down. He understands that exactly now.’’
Powerful words have created a powerful change in Hill.
“To miss those games and be able to come back and help the team in the way I’ve been helping them has been awesome,” Hill said, “because the organization and my teammates still believe in me, and that has helped me overcome so many thing.
Hill was hit with a four-game suspension to open the season for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy after he admitted to smoking marijuana. A star at Jersey City’s St. Peter’s Prep, Hill said he will keep his act clean.
“I knew I could overcome my issues, but it is much easier when you have the support of your teammates and the organization,’’ Hill said. “I’m able to play the game now and have fun.’’
Rich Hansen, the longtime winning coach at St. Peter’s Prep, said he is proud of Hill for straightening out his life.
“It’s like he’s back at recess, running around the field and just having fun playing, and all that is a product of having a clear mind,’’ said Hansen, whose team played in the Non-Public Group 4 Championship Game Friday night at MetLife Stadium against Paramus Catholic. Hill planned to attend the game.
“Will is an icon to the kids here and he’s been back for a few games this year and it is so good to see him. He will be the first to admit he made mistakes, but he has learned from those mistakes.’’
Said Hill: “You have to conduct yourself in a professional manner. Everybody is watching. It makes me feel good to know I don’t have to stress and worry about certain things, I just have to worry about football. I don’t ever want to get in trouble again.’’
Giants coach Tom Coughlin praised Hill, who is often used in deep coverage, saying: “We’ve always known he is talented and is a good football player. Hopefully everything is in line for him going forward that he can continue like he has. He has played well.’’
The Giants lost those first four games when Hill was suspended and their first six overall, surrendering an average of 35 points per game. They have won five of their last six, surrendering 15 points per game.
One of Sunday’s challenges is Chargers tight end Antonio Gates.
“Gates is a Hall of Fame guy who still has it,’’ Rolle said. “He knows how to set guys up. I see Will Hill a lot like I see myself, very athletic, can play multiple positions. He’s a playmaker, so it’s easy to coach him up on so many things because I feel like I’m coaching myself.’’
Noted Hill of Gates, “You are in awe of a guy like that, but you have to stop him. That’s what this game is about. Who’s the best? This is a game of will power.’’
In many ways.