Sterling Shepard Reflects on Giants’ Culture Ahead of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Clash

Former New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard is set to return to MetLife Stadium, not as a Giant, but as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Shepard, who joined the Buccaneers after parting ways with the Giants this March, will face his former team when the Buccaneers play against the Giants on Sunday afternoon.

Shepard, a 2016 second-round draft pick out of Oklahoma, played for the Giants for eight seasons. His move to the Buccaneers was initially perceived as a depth acquisition. However, injuries to key players such as Chris Godwin and Mike Evans have propelled the 31-year-old into a more significant role on the team.

«I feel for him,» Shepard said regarding former teammate and quarterback Daniel Jones, who was released by the Giants after a benching earlier in the week. «I know how hard the dude works. I’ve seen it firsthand and how great of a dude he is. And he can play ball, man, he’s a good ballplayer. It’s just unfortunate this is the way this business goes sometimes.»

Shepard also offered insight into the changes at the Giants since his departure, noting that they are «a couple of pieces away from being a really good team.» However, he also commented on the cultural differences he has observed between his former team and his current team.

«I think there could be maybe a little bit of work there,» Shepard suggested. «It’s just different, in so many different ways and so many different levels… Even down to the training staff or the weight coaches and some of the different stuff that we do here, it’s a difference. I’m not saying the way they do it is bad because it’s not. It’s just different and I’ve gotten to see the other side of it.»

Shepard’s departure was part of the Giants’ efforts to rejuvenate their receiving corps with younger talent, leading to the acquisition of players like Malik Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Jalin Hyatt. Despite this, Shepard remains supportive of Giants head coach Brian Daboll, who has had a challenging tenure with an 8-19 record over two seasons.

«I don’t think you go from being the Coach of the Year two years ago to just being a guy that can’t get the job done,» Shepard stated. «I don’t believe that. I wish him nothing but the best. I feel like he can be a coach that can produce wins. He’s done it before and he did it early on so I don’t think you just go away from that.»

As the Giants prepare to face the Buccaneers, outside linebacker Yaya Diaby emphasized the importance of respecting all opponents, regardless of their standing or past performance. With Tommy Devito, a less experienced quarterback, likely at the helm for the Giants, Diaby reassured that the Buccaneers would maintain their competitive edge.

«We have to approach him the same way we approach Daniel Jones,» Diaby remarked. «We have to get after it.»