Memo To Jerry Reese: Steve Smith Deserves His Raise

Esteemed Jerry Reese:

You need a guy doesn't ask for much. Heck, you'd probably prefer to have some players right now who would prefer to just not talk at all.

Let's face it. You've had enough complaining from glock-in-sweatpants-wearing diva-like receivers (tight ends included) and self-deluded defensive linemen that you just want some peace and quiet. You want guys to go out and do their jobs. To be seen and not heard.

Right?

That's where you've lucked out. You have a guy like that already. The Yang to the more verbose Steve Smith's (Panther-version) Yin.

This Steve Smith doesn't talk much. He acts like he'd just prefer to hide off the field. He's exactly the kind of guy that any team would love to have; especially considering that it's usually assumed that you need to have a mouth to succeed at receiver.

He's the anti-Steve Smith. Only not.

He deserves a raise. Lucky for you you won't hear him complain about his contract. You may even be fooled into believing that he doesn't know he just had one of the best statistical seasons in Giants receiver history. Smith put to rest all of this "the Giants don't have a true number-one receiver" stuff. So, just for kicks, why don't you surprise him?

You have a good rapport with Smith's new agent, Tom Condon. You hammered out Eli's deals with him, so there's a chance that traversing these terms could be easier than most. You two know each other well enough to get it done.

And just in case you need a refresher: 107 catches; 1,220 yards receiving; seven TDs.

Production. Team-first guy.

Back up the truck.

Sincere regards,

Big Blue International