Victor Cruz Tells Teammate Rueben Randle: “Act Like You Want to Be Here”Quote
With one catch totaling four yards over his first four games as a member of the New York Giants, the "NFL-ready" Rueben Randle hasn't done much to dazzle. On Sunday night, during a 19-17 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Randle had an opportunity to step up and make his presence felt in the absence of Hakeem Nicks, but like the one pass that went his way, he fell short. And during the NBC broadcast, analyst Cris Collinsworth made mention that the Giants have begun to question his work ethic.
“Randle’s work ethic has been questioned a bit with the Giants," Collinsworth said. “They’re hoping that he grows up as he goes along and starts becoming a bit more of a pro.”
Initially dismissed as more nonsensical rambling courtesy of Collinsworth, it now appears his remarks have some merit. In a recent interview with the New York Post, fellow wide receiver Victor Cruz not only engaged in questions about Randle's work ethic, but more or less agreed with exactly what Collinsworth had said.
“Rueben has to understand that this is a business now, it’s not just come out here, lollygag, because you may not be getting as much reps as somebody else, that you shouldn’t be giving as much effort," Victor Cruz told The Post. “He has to understand that each and every day he walks in here he’s a professional and he has to perform no matter what’s being asked of him."
Asked whether or not Randle needs to step up and adjust his attitude, Cruz said "I guess. I guess."
These comments are far from the glowing praise that was initially heaped on the rookie from General Manager Jerry Reese and Director of College Scouting Marc Ross. Each raved about how talented Randle was and how successful he'd ultimately be in this league. But, of course, you have to have the right mentality to achieve success in the NFL and, at least for now, the former LSU standout doesn't appear to have it.
“I tell him little things here and there,” Cruz said, “like, ‘Hey man, you got to just show some energy out there. Act like you want to be here. Act like you want to go out there and continue to play and run routes, because sooner or later your number is going to be called and we’re gonna need you to play.”
On a team full of "we" and "us" guys, Randle is out of place. He's going to need to shape up or he'll find himself not only in the cold tub, but in Tom Coughlin's dog house. And once you're in there, it's very difficult to get out.
No Dez situation here, Randle will get turned around real quick and the talent will be on full display.
God I LOVE Victor Cruz...... this guy is the epitome of a New York Giant..... unquestioned work ethic, humble, class first, leads by example..... so blessed to have him don a Giants uniform