The New York Giants have released a statement bearing bad news from team owner, president, and CEO John Mara. He has announced that he has cancer.
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"I have recently been diagnosed with cancer and have been following the treatment plan recommended by an outstanding team of doctors," Mara, 70, said in a Monday statement. "I'm feeling strong and optimistic, and I'm committed to seeing this through to a positive outcome.
"I plan to remain active with the team throughout my treatment, and I'm fortunate to be surrounded by incredible support—personally, professionally, and medically. I ask that you respect my privacy and my family's privacy at this time."
A New York City native, Mara joined the Giants in 1991. He held multiple roles with the team, including executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Mara took over as owner in 2005 when his father, Wellington Mara, passed away. He began running the team that his grandfather, Tim, founded and built into a championship-winning operation.
Since the 2005 season, the Giants have experienced some major successes. They have also dealt with personnel and injury concerns.
This team has won the division twice while making the playoff seven times. The Giants reached the Super Bowl twice and defeated the Patriots both times. The first Super Bowl win, which took place at the end of the 2007 season, featured the Giants taking out the previously undefeated Patriots featuring Tom Brady and Randy Moss.
However, the Giants have also struggled in recent seasons. The NFC East team only has two playoff appearances since the last Super Bowl win (2011 season), and it has 10 losing seasons.
This campaign began with Russell Wilson taking over as quarterback and going 0-3 as the starter. The Giants benched Wilson ahead of a Week 4 matchup with the Chargers and put rookie Jaxson Dart into the starting lineup. The Ole Miss product led Big Blue to its first win of the season while working alongside fellow rookie, running back Cam Skattebo.
