Linebacker David Mayo stepped up and filled an important role for the New York Giants last season, replacing the departed B.J. Goodson and injured Ryan Connelly en route to a career year.
Mayo appeared in all 16 of the team’s games, earning a career-high 13 starts and accounting for 632 defensive snaps, which was nearly 500 snaps more than his previous career-high.
Unsurprisingly, that led to Mayo posting career highs in tackles (82), tackles for a loss (5), QB hits (2), sacks (2.0), passes defensed (2) and fumble recoveries (1).
As a result, the Giants re-signed Mayo to a three-year deal worth $8.4 million, which was exactly how the veteran had hoped things would shake out.
“I’m really excited. I wanted to be back and we got a deal before free agency, so I’m happy I didn’t have to deal with that. Most importantly I’m just happy to be back with the Giants. I’m excited for the upcoming season,” Mayo told Big Blue View, adding that he “just loved” everything about the organization.
Mayo will also reunite with his former Carolina Panthers teammate, cornerback James Bradberry, who signed a substantial free agent deal with the Giants earlier this month.
That has only added to the linebacker’s excitement.
“I thought that was a huge find. I was so happy we got him because he’s a pro’s pro. He puts his head down, he works. He’s pretty quiet, but not shy. He’s just kind of a quieter guy, but he’s an outstanding football player. I’m excited to play with him again,” Mayo said.
“He’s extremely underrated. Maybe he doesn’t have some of the flashy stats throughout his career, but, man, he would lock dudes down. He’s going against NFC South receivers (Mike Evans, Julio Jones, Michael Thomas, Chris Godwin). . . I think when he comes in and shows the way he works, his professionalism, I think it’s only going to make them [the young CBs] better.”
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