The Giants don’t want Tiki Barber back.
Bob Glauber of Newsday reports via a league source that the Giants will not retain Tiki’s rights, which is news that should surprise no one.
The possibility of the Giants welcoming Barber back with open arms seemed about as likely as coach Tom Coughlin quitting his job to drum in the Blue Man Group.
“Is Tiki ‘No Need for a’ Barber’ serious??” Giants receiver Steve Smith asked on Twitter Tuesday. “Can’t wait till he play vs the Giants. They gone hear them Boooo’s all way in LA.”
First, Tiki has to get a gig. (After waiting for a new CBA to be worked out.) He was due $4.65 million-per-year in his last contract, and figures to only get offers near the league minimum this time around. If he gets offers at all.
Ira Kaufman of the Tampa Tribune says not to “hold your breath” waiting for Tiki to join his brother in Tampa.
UPDATE: The Giants released a statement on the matter: “We wish Tiki nothing but the best, and when we are able to make the transaction, we will release him from our reserve/retired list.”