New York Giants Cut Linebacker Michael Boley

New York Giants Cut Linebacker Michael Boley: The Giants announced yesterday that they have released LB Michael Boley. The 30-year old Boley spent four seasons with the Giants (2009-2012).

Boley had one year left on his 5-year, $25 million contract that he signed with the Giants. Boley was due to make $4.25 million in base salary in 2013. The Daily News and New York Post are reporting the move will save $4.5 million against the 2013 salary cap. Boley said the Giants did not ask him to take a pay cut.

“They let me know they’re moving things for the team in a different direction,” Boley told The Star-Ledger. “You do realize this is a business. Right now, all I can do is be thankful they gave me a second chance after leaving Atlanta. I had four tremendous years here…I won a ring here, something some people never get to do…I’m still young. I definitely plan to go somewhere else and continue my career. I hope to have a lot of success.”

“Michael came in and learned our defense quickly and he added speed, coupled with big play ability, to our defensive unit,” said General Manager Jerry Reese. “He also played an important role in helping us win Super Bowl XLVI. I wish him well as he moves forward in his career.”

“Michael Boley was brought here as a fast, athletic, versatile linebacker,” said Head Coach Tom Coughlin. “We recognized his special skills were in coverage. He’s a smart player who made some big plays for us. He was an integral part of our Super Bowl XLVI championship team. Michael played outstanding football down the stretch for us that season.”

“That’s a little bit of a shock to the system,” DT Chris Canty said when told Boley was cut. “He’s a terrific football player, he brings speed to our defense, the ability to cover…so he gives us a lot of versatility. To have to replace a guy like that is going to be tough. Those guys don’t come a dime a dozen in the National Football League.”

Extending Hakeem Nicks a Priority: According to ESPN, league sources say the Giants are putting a greater priority on extending the contract of WR Hakeem Nicks than re-signing soon-to-be restricted free agent WR Victor Cruz. Nicks’ rookie contract is set to expire after the 2013 season.

Last week, Giants’ President/CEO John Mara said that Cruz was seeking more money from the team than the Giants were willing to pay.

“We certainly want (Cruz) back, but like with any player, there’s a limit to where we’re going to go,” said Mara. “He’s been a terrific player for us, he’s a fan favorite, he does a lot for our franchise, but there is a limit.”

Giants.com Q&A With LB Spencer Paysinger: The video of a Q&A session with LB Spencer Paysinger is available at Giants.com.

Article on the Giants and Possible Future Roster Moves: Who’s Next After Giants Release Boley? by Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPNNewYork.com

Article on DT Chris Canty: Super Bowl XLVII Reminds Giants’ Chris Canty of Opportunity Lost by Jenny Vrentas of The Star-Ledger

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