UConn offensive lineman Matt Peart was born in Kingston, Jamaica but immigrated to the United State at the age of four and grew up in the Bronx. And while in New York, he developed an affinity for the New York Giants.
On Friday, in Round 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft, dreams came true for Peart when the Giants called his name.
“Growing up I always wanted to be a Giant. And now I get to put on the blue,” Peart said during a Saturday conference call. “It still feels so surreal to me.”
Peart also revealed that his favorite player is now-retired quarterback Eli Manning, who he respected as an iron man.
“He was tough as nails,” Peart said of Manning, adding that the quarterback will forever be his favorite player.
Although Peart won’t get to block for Manning, he will have the opportunity to play alongside one of his newest friends, Andrew Thomas, whom he had recently trained with at EXOS in Florida.
“He’s a brother for life. He can’t get rid of me now,” Peart said of Thomas. “He’s an amazing tackle. A true talent.”
While Peart is unlikely to earn a starting role in 2020, the Giants envision him as a potential long-term answer at right tackle opposite of Thomas. And given all the physical tools, there’s a strong chance Peart lives up to those expectations.
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