Victor Cruz at Liberty State Park

On a sweltering 84-degree day, Victor Cruz found himself at Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey, with the Manhattan skyline behind him. The former Giants wide receiver and Super Bowl champion seemed a bit nostalgic, reminiscing about the days filled with throwing pads and helmets during mini-camps.

“I’m out here in this heat of this suit. I’m not going to miss it, let alone being there with half a pad and shorts,” Cruz remarked. He was present for an event focusing on his role leading up to the 2026 World Cup, but the buzz quickly shifted to the Giants’ mini-camps set to start next week.

Although Cruz doesn’t miss the oppressive New Jersey sun, a recent visit to the Giants’ facility in East Rutherford sparked feelings of nostalgia. “I started getting the bugs back. I started stretching,” he said. “But I’m going back there and missing everyone, I’m in the locker room and just putting that energy back a bit. That’s a bit nostalgic for me.”

While he may not be returning to the field anytime soon, Cruz expressed a cautious optimism about the Giants’ prospects for the upcoming season, suggesting they could finish above .500. “I think we have a good team. For the first time, [head coach Brian Daboll] has brought in a team in the draft, and it feels like he’s really connecting with them. We can see how he develops them,” Cruz noted.

The Giants made headlines by drafting Edge Rusher Abdul Carter third overall and selecting quarterback Jackson Dirt at 25. Cruz appreciates the opportunity for Dirt to learn from established quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, mentioning that Wilson is the “ultimate professional” while Winston has a “gunslinger-like mentality.” “I think Jackson can learn a few things from both of them,” Cruz added.

Cruz will play a role in organizing events related to the 2026 World Cup, joined by various local sports stars and politicians. Liberty State Park is set to be the site for the FIFA Fan Festival New York New Jersey, which Cruz hopes will resonate with fans.

“I’ve played in some big games, some big moments, but this is on another level. We’re talking about the biggest sporting event in the world coming to the New York, New Jersey area,” he explained. “This park will become a hub for fans to enjoy over 104 matches. The view of the Statue of Liberty makes it incredibly iconic.”