Rap artist and entrepreneur Jay-Z's new sports agency will have their work cut out for them if they landNew York Giants restricted free agent Victor Cruz. Two NFL sources familiar with Cruz's plans told the New York Daily News on Wednesday that the wide receiver is expected to be represented by Hova's Roc Nation.
Best and Worst Draft Picks
[
Who are the best and worst
all-time draft picks by your team? Find out and let your voice be heard.
More ...
The Giants reportedly have extended an offer to Cruz worth $7 million annually with more than $20 million in guarantees.
Roc Nation would have to bridge a sizeable gap, as Cruz expects a much bigger payday. The Daily News reported that Cruz's last request under agent Tom Condon was closer to the $10 million to $11 million range per year.
Cruz wants to be paid the going rate for a No. 1 receiver entering his prime, while the Giants are offering elite slot-receiver money.
With Hakeem Nicksalso in the market for a new contract, the Giants are faced with quite the conundrum at wide receiver. Although Cruz has a significant edge in reliability and consistency the past two seasons, Nicks is viewed by the team's brass as a more legitimate No. 1 receiver.
No matter who gets paid first, the Giants likely will join the Seattle Seahawks as the only franchises with two receivers earning more than $8 million per season.
Follow Chris Wesseling on Twitter @ChrisWesseling.