Giants wide receiver Steve Smith knows his breakout season came at a poor time.
“It’s bad timing for me to be doing well in the National Football League,” Smith told the New York Post in reference to the uncapped season and CBA uncertainty. He notes situation makes it tough on “both sides.”
Smith’s contract is difficult to upgrade because of the “30% rule” but the possession receiver thinks he knows what he’s worth.
“I deserve to at least be getting what these other players in the NFL are getting, like a Greg Jennings, at least,” Smith said.
We’d argue that point. Smith is one of our favorite players to watch, but NFL teams pay receivers like Jennings big money because they make plays on their own. Even the best possession receivers like Anquan Boldin come up short of true “No. 1 receiver” money.
Smith’s agent says nothing is happening in regards to contract negotiations, but Eli Manning’s favorite target promises to show up to training camp on time. Top 100 receptions again and then Smith may see Greg Jennings money.
In the meantime, Smith knows at least one other easy way to make a pile of cash.