Hall of Fame Game Countdown: Antrel Rolle’s #26

Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Hall of Fame Game is in 26 days… and with that being the case, an ode to current Giants #26 Antrel Rolle is necessary. Sort of.

Remarkably, Antrel Rolle has already been a Giant for four seasons.In 2013, he was named one of 5 team captains — this in addition to already inhabiting the role of vocal leader — and he’s taken the accompanying responsibilities to heart:

"“Being a captain definitely holds its value and there’s a huge standard and reputation you have to live up to, but at the same time it’s not about me being a leader. It’s about getting other people to lead and having a team full of leaders. It’s not about one guy, two guys, three individuals, it’s about going out there as a team.”"

Rolle, who signed a 5-year $37 million deal in the offseason of 2010, is getting paid handsomely for his dual functions. According to Spotrac, he will earn the third highest base salary among all safeties in 2014 at $7 million. For the most part, Rolle has earned his keep:

• All-Pro 2nd team in 2010
• Two-time Pro Bowler (2010, 2013)
• Super Bowl Champion in 2011
• Played in all 64 regular season games
• Averages 78 solo tackles per season

Even his peers respect the football warrior that is Antrel Rolle, ranking him number 72 in this years NFL Top 100 player countdown:

Perhaps most impressively, Rolle produced by far his most effective coverage season in 2013… out of necessity.

Pro Football Focus: Antrel Rolle in Coverage

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However, an unfortunate reality must be voiced: it’s not a given that Rolle’s stay in New York will continue beyond this year. At the conclusion of 2014, Rolle will become an unrestricted free agent, and even at age 31, he’s sure to generate significant interest on the open market. It will be fascinating to see the action taken by both parties during FA.

For now, let’s appreciate Antrel as the team leader and strong safety for (at least) one more winning campaign. If the season plays out in line with Rolle’s NFC East predictions, Giants Nation will be sitting pretty: Big Blue, Washington, Philadelphia, Dallas.

With 26 days until the Hall of Fame game against the Buffalo Bills in Canton, Ohio, and Antrel Rolle now properly praised, GMEN HQ will leave you with two questions:

1. What’s your favorite memory from former Giant number 26, RB Rob Carpenter?
2. Is it football season yet?