What’s Stopping The Giants From Replacing Eli?

The 15-year pro has lost his mojo, and it’s time for the NY Giants’ management to see that.

What comes to mind when you hear the name, Eli Manning? Perhaps it’s that Eli is a member of a legendary football family. Perhaps it’s that Eli has won two Super Bowls, beating future Hall of Famer, Tom Brady, both times.

But I’d guess that most people would say this: he’s the starting QB of the New York Giants. For those who would say that—and also follow his play—the stark reality is that Eli’s play has gone from spectacular over the years to brutal this year. His future as a Giant is in question. Cries are loud and persistent about replacing him.

So what’s stopping the Giants from replacing Eli? First of all, there isn’t a sure-fire replacement waiting in the wings. Recent draft pick Kyle Lauletta would be that player. But he’s young and certainly not ready to take the reins.

Second of all, Eli has earned loads of respect. He’s the face of the New York Giants–a great leader, loyal teammate, and solid mentor. There’s also a deep connection with the front office.

Photo, Nola.com

All of those things make it tough for a franchise to replace a player like Manning. The question, though, is what the Giants are risking by waiting to make a move. Are the Giants willing to lose this year and possibly next?

I understand the difficulty. Personally, I’d be emotionally connected to Eli if I played for the Giants or was in the Giants’ front office. But the underlying football situation isn’t going to go away. At some point, the Giants will have to do what’s best for the team. That’s the Giants’ conundrum, and resolving it comes down to having a long, deep discussion about replacing Eli. But Coach Pat Shurmur wants to stick with Eli, even as some players in the locker room are losing faith in him.

What’s one way to resolve the impasse? One way is for Eli to call it quits, to do it for the good of the team. The Giants aren’t going to get better with him under center. The Giants aren’t going to have a 10-win season. The Giants aren’t going to make a playoff run or nab a Super Bowl ring.

Eli Manning has had a great career with the Giants. Those days are now over. If the Giants can’t rise above emotion and make a move, then Eli needs to do it.

Let me know what you think. Comment here or tweet me @ChrisQuez19.