Shane Vereen traded his Patriots jersey for a Giants one, Boston for New York and owner Robert Kraft for John Mara. As far as the running back is concerned the move was a "step up."
"It's just a decision for my family," Vereen told the Giants' official team website Wednesday. "At the end of the day, I wanted to make a decision that was right for us, right for them. This is a great organization. I was fortunate enough to play in New England with another great organization, and this is no slouch. This is not a step down. If anything, it's a step up. I'm looking forward to the opportunity, and I'm enjoying being in New York."
(Flash to Pats fans burning things.)
To be fair to the running back, who inked a three-year, $12.35 million contract with the Giants this week, these newly signed players are sent through an exhausting media carwash immediately after being brought to town. That process can inevitably lead to saying things in ways they don't always intent.
Vereen was effusive about what he learned under Bill Belichick in New England in the same interview.
After earning his first championship ring, the pass-catching running back will now play a big role to help his new organization step up, get back to the playoffs and push the Giants back ahead of the Patriots in total franchise Super Bowl wins.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast breaks down every trade and free-agent signing and discusses the impact of Darrelle Revis' return to the Jets. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
