Griffin signs deal with Giants after short holdout

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, July 26, 2000

The New York Giants agreed to terms today with their second round pick former Alabama defensive lineman Cornelius Griffin. The agreements end a brief four day holdout.

Griffin received a four year deal that will pay him in excess of $3 million, including a $1.1 million signing bonus. The package also includes incentives that could bring the total much higher.

Griffin’s agent, Birmingham lawyer Russ Campbell, explained that one of the major sticking points was contract structure.

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"Given the limited dollars available to the Giants under the rookie pool, it was critical to come up with a creative framework that would in the end make the total package commensurate with that of a second round draft pick. It was a difficult negotiation that took longer than either side would have preferred. We were happy to get it completed," he said."

He continued.

"Cornelius had had his bags packed and was chomping at the bit. We never like to see holdouts, as it is rare that anyone benefits. The important thing now is that Cornelius proves himself to the Giants and their fans. New York has a good one in Cornelius."

Griffin added: "I am happy it is over. I just want to play football. I am excited to be a Giant and hope to continue to a successful season."