Giants meet Olympic star Rai Benjamin during practice visit

Rai Benjamin, an Olympic gold medalist in the 400-meter hurdles and 4x400 relay, visited the New York Giants during their practice session. The visit stemmed from a lighthearted comment he made on ESPN's 'SportsCenter' about wanting a one-day contract with the team. During his time with the Giants, he expressed admiration for the athletes' dedication and the pressure they face, acknowledging the differences between track and football speed. He humorously attempted to acquire a pair of cleats and engaged with players, including his former USC teammate Adoree Jackson. Benjamin brought his Olympic medals to the practice, showcasing them to the team while also being impressed by the Giants' four Lombardi trophies displayed at their headquarters. He specifically noted the significance of the trophies won against the New England Patriots in Super Bowls 42 and 46, where Eli Manning was named MVP. His admiration for Manning was evident as he stated that despite respect for Tom Brady, Manning would always be his favorite. The visit allowed Benjamin to connect with the Giants and share his experiences as an elite athlete. He took the opportunity to address the team, emphasizing the commitment and sacrifices required to excel in sports. His presence served as an inspiration, highlighting the shared challenges athletes face across different sports. Overall, Benjamin's visit was a blend of humor, admiration, and respect, bridging the gap between track and football while fostering camaraderie among athletes from different disciplines.