If it turns out Eli Manning’s arm strength actually improves this season — even at age 38 and about to begin his 16th NFL season — then credit former Yankees pitcher Al Leiter with a major assist in steering the Giants quarterback in the direction of Mickey Brueckner.
Leiter has urged Manning in recent years to work with Brueckner, whose Chatham, New Jersey-based company Annex Sports Performance Center works with athletes, particularly overhand throwers, to improve their strength and agility. Manning finally took Leiter up on the suggestion in January and believes the monthslong program in the offseason is paying off.