Eli Apple’s Journey with the New York Giants
Eli Apple experienced a challenging and disappointing tenure during his two-plus seasons with the New York Giants. In a recent interview, the now 29-year-old, who has a wife and daughter, reflected on his growth since his time with the team.
Reflection on His Time with the Giants
During an exclusive interview with Kyle Odegard of ReadWrite, Apple shared his thoughts about his experiences with the Giants:
Question: Looking back at your Giants career, do you wish it had gone differently?
Eli Apple: “Absolutely. I wish I could have handled things in a better way. However, I appreciate the lessons learned from those mistakes, as they shaped who I am today. I don’t really have any regrets; everything happened for a reason. I’m grateful for being drafted by the Giants and the opportunity I received. I learned a lot about myself and the people around me through those experiences.”
Comparing New York and New Orleans
Apple continued to explain how moving to New Orleans contributed to his maturity:
Question: Did moving to New Orleans help you mature, given the difference in environment?
Eli Apple: “It was a significant change. In New York, I had family nearby, which can be both supportive and distracting. In New Orleans, I could focus entirely on football without those distractions. It allowed me to learn the playbook quickly and grow as a player.”
Realization After the Trade
Apple reflected on his chaotic transition from the Giants to the Saints:
Question: Was there a moment after the trade when you realized it was beneficial?
Eli Apple: “Moving to New Orleans felt more peaceful. The media attention wasn’t as harsh, and I was welcomed by a supportive environment. It felt like I was leaving a storm and entering a calmer space.”
Personal Growth and Social Media
Apple acknowledged his past missteps during his Giants tenure and his efforts to avoid negativity moving forward:
Eli Apple: “I’ve learned to focus on positivity and protect my peace. I still have many thoughts I’d like to express, but engaging in social media disputes isn’t a priority for me anymore.”
A New Chapter Ahead
While Apple’s journey with the Giants was tumultuous, it appears he has matured significantly. He has since played for teams like the Saints, Panthers, Bengals, Dolphins, and Chargers, while he now seeks new opportunities for the upcoming 2025 season.