The New York Giants have axed receiver David Tyree, whose remarkable catch contributed to the team's triumph over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 42, 19 months ago.
The Giants trailed 14-10 late in the fourth quarter of the National Football League championship game when Tyree reeled in a 32-yard pass from quarterback Eli Manning, clutching the ball against his helmet as defender Rodney Harrison pulled him down.
The play set up Manning's game-winning touchdown pass to Plaxico Burress.
Tyree missed last season, unable to rebound after offseason knee surgery. In training camp this year he has battled minor groin, hamstring and knee injuries.
"He has been a great teammate, a great friend of mine since I have gotten here," Manning said on Friday. "Honestly, I will always have a special place in my heart, not only because of the play he made in the Super Bowl, but just the person he is and the friend he has been for me."
Copyright 2009  AFP American Edition
