Former Giants OL said he passed on Eagles move in 2023 to stay loyal to NY
This is what we're talking about. Last season, it was a bit of a surprise when the NY Giants announced there was a reunion in place with former standout offensive tackle/guard Justin Pugh. The big catch here was that the veteran lineman wasn't making the jump straight to the 53-man roster, but his season would start on the practice squad.
It didn't take long for Pugh to get elevated, though, as he went from off the couch into NY's lineup. While the Giants limped their way to a 6-11 record and Pugh remains a free agent, there was no other team he wanted to suit up for, especially not a division rival.
On social media, Pugh revealed that before he put the pen to paper to join Big Blue's PS, the Eagles called him up and offered him a backup spot on their line. At the time, Philly was undefeated and the Giants were 1-4. Despite greener pastures being open to him with the Eagles, Pugh said thanks, but no thanks:
The @Eagles hit me up about being a back up last year when they were 5-0. I signed with the @Giants practice squad the next day when they were 1-4...that should tell you all you need to know about my loyalty! https://t.co/DC3hDUmTyD
— Justin Pugh (@JustinPugh) August 24, 2024
Justin Pugh never wavered in his loyalty to the Giants
Props to Pugh for being so close to the G-Men that he never wanted to play for the Eagles or the Cowboys. Some people might think he was a fool to not try and chase a ring with the Eagles, but hey, the man has principles and he has too much love for New York to suit up for a hated rival.
One fan even told Saquon Barkley to 'take notes,' but Pugh was quick to disagree with that because the two are in different parts of their career. We'll agree with Pugh there, as Barkley got the contract he was hoping to land this offseason.
As for Pugh, he ended up playing in 12 games for the Giants last season, starting every single one. His return to MetLife Stadium wasn't as glamorous as he might have hoped, but it was still special to get back to the team that selected him in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Pugh spent the first five years of his career in East Rutherford before joining the Cardinals in 2018. He then made his way home last season, something he has no regrets over.
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