It’s been 15 years since Victor Cruz lit up the Meadowlands in a meaningless preseason game that ended up meaning everything. The electrifying, salsa-dancing New Jersey native instantly captivated fans with one of the most memorable preseason performances they’d ever seen: six catches, 145 yards, three touchdowns, all under the lights against the Jets.
Now, another undrafted wide receiver might be starting his own improbable Giants journey the very same (and eerie) way.
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Beaux Collins, a 6-foot-3 rookie out of Notre Dame by way of Clemson, has been one of the most consistent risers in training camp. And just like Cruz, he picked a preseason showdown with the Jets to give fans a reason to start dreaming big.
Beaux Collins makes Giants fans wonder if history is repeating itself
The parallels are almost eerie. Cruz was overlooked in the draft, battled through camp, and then announced himself with a breakout night against the Jets. Collins? Same story, different year.
After flashing all summer, Collins pulled down a vintage Russell Wilson moon ball for 80 yards in Saturday’s game, falling just short of the end zone at the 1-yard line. Running back Devin Singletary punched it in, and the G-Men went on to win the game 31 to 12, and Collins finished the night with that lone catch for 80 yards.
RUSELL WILSON LAUNCHES DEEP🚀
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He’s not Cruz. The playing styles are too different — Cruz thrived on shiftiness and separation. Collins leans more on size, toughness, and body control. But the energy feels familiar.
Both receivers were undrafted. Both bullied New York's little brother. Neither was supposed to have much of a real shot. And yet here we are.
Even before Saturday’s highlight, Collins had been making a strong case for a roster spot. With Malik Nabers sidelined, the rookie has been earning first-team reps and showing he can hang with NFL-caliber defenders. His hands have been reliable, his routes sharp, and the trust he’s built with Wilson has been noticeable.
It’s not just about offense, either. Collins will be used on special teams, which is often the final box for fringe players to check. That matters with the receiver room as crowded as it is. Nabers, Darius Slayton, Jalin Hyatt, and Wan’Dale Robinson are locked in. But beyond that, it’s Collins, Montrell Washington, Lil'Jordan Humphrey, Gunner Olszewski, and Dalen Cambre likely fighting for two spots.
The 22-year-old didn't quite end the game with the stat line Cruz did, but the fact he's getting runs with the ones and making highlight-level plays says enough for now.
Cruz forced the coaching staff’s hands with one legendary preseason. Collins isn’t there yet, but he’s starting to feel like that name that just won’t go away. And if Saturday was any indication, he might be a lot closer to a roster spot than anyone expected.