New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck is set to enter the final year of his contract this fall. He’s only been able to accumulate nine sacks over the last two seasons after posting three 10-plus sack season in the prior four years. Tuck could use a highly productive year this season in order to give him an a chance at a potentially lucrative contract next spring.
However, Tuck says he isn’t focused on his contract situation. According to Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPNNewYork.com, Tuck isn’t using the prospects of a new contract as motivation for this season.
“I am not going to allow this whole circumstance to put pressure on me to perform,” Tuck said. “I put enough pressure on myself to perform. I am not even thinking about contract-wise. I don’t care if I come out in the first three games [and] I have 10 sacks. ... I don’t want to hear about contract at all. That is not my focus.”
Injuries have also hampered Tuck in his effectiveness the last two seasons. He’s missed five games over that span and hasn’t come close to matching the 11.5 sack, six forced fumble output from 2010. Tuck said he’s cutting down on his offseason commitments in hopes of being fully ready for the start of the season.
“I am worried about getting this football team to another Super Bowl and winning it,” he added. “If that happens, then all the rest will take care of itself.”