The conclusion of the 2016 season a week and a day ago means teams can begin releasing veterans as they prepare for the start of 2017 free agency. A notable name was released on Monday, with the New York Giants cutting ties with Victor Cruz. He was facing a $9.4 million cap number, and given his injuries and 2016 production, that simply was not happening.
Cruz missed 26 games in 2014 and 2015 due to a torn patellar tendon. In 15 games this past season, he had 39 receptions for 586 yards and a touchdown. He wants to keep playing, and can still provide some production in the NFL — just not at his previous price tag.