Former New York Giants head coach and current Jacksonville Jaguars general manager Tom Coughlin, held an exclusive event to promote his foundation. The Jay Foundation helps families battle childhood cancer and the struggles that accompany the terrible illness.
Coughlin has done fantastic work in the community as a leader and sponsor for families and individuals alike. Empire Sports Media had the privilege of attending the event and speaking with some of the attendees — including Pat Shurmur, Kevin Boothe, Nate Solder, and Justin Tuck.
The former Giants defensive end was excited about the Jay Fund and the people honored for their contributions, stating:
“If coach wants them to be honored here tonight than that speaks volumes on what they’ve been able to accomplish and what they’ve done as far as giving back and being there for cancer [patients],” Tuck gushed.
The nine-year NFL veteran was asked about the New York Giants defense, specifically about rookie interior defender Dexter Lawrence:
Q: “What do you see in Dexter Lawrence? How do you like the way he has played so far?”
A: “Listen, as a rookie playing interior d-line, especially in the 3-4, you’re gonna have some bumps and bruises,” Tuck said. “But I definitely see growth in him every game, I like him in there and I like his ability to be more than just a run-stuffer. He’s a huge kid to move, and he’s only going to get better,” Tuck chuckled. “I love his hands, I love his feet. We gotta talk, I’ve seen him, you know, be a little slow off the ball, but that comes with confidence, and the more he gets reps, the more he plays in this league, the more he will understand that he has all the time to be one of the best to do it at his position.”
So far this season, Lawrence has managed seven combined tackles, two QB hits, and one sack. His influence is gaining in every passing game, but there’s still a ton of potential to unlock, and like Tuck stated, experience is the catalyst behind his progression.
Lawrence’s ability to draw double-teams and move the line of scrimmage is his biggest asset, and undoubtedly something the Giants will look to utilize moving forward.