Antonio Pierce Tackling

Middle linebacker Antonio Pierce, the heart and soul defender, has been released by the New York Giants.

The 32-year-old was out the final month of the season with a bulging disk and the Giants were probably expecting that between his age and injuries his play would start to fall off.

While fans are speculating that marquee free agent Karlos Dansby will be the replacement, it is also possible that the Giants think that Jonathan Goff is ready to step up and play full time. The Giants could then spend Pierce’s money elsewhere.

Pierce feels good about his prospects saying that he is “doing great, feeling great. Looking forward to endless possibilities.” No doubt some team will step up and offer him a contract because he is still a major contributor.

Even without Antonio Pierce, the Giants odds to win the Super Bowl remain steady at +2000.