He's no Bavaro - The Fans Speak Out

Football Digest, April, 2003 by Leslie H. Lynn

I've never written before, even though I've subscribed to your magazine for 12 years. I would like to address the recent incident involving Jeremy Shockey of the New York Giants hitting some kids with a cup of ice during the playoffs.

When the Giants drafted Shockey, people began to compare him to the team's former light end, Mark Bavaro. In my opinion, Shockey will never be another Bavaro. During Bavaro's career, you never heard of him causing a scene on the sideline or off the field. He led the team with a quiet calm and determination that young Mr. Shockey would be wise to learn from.

During my time in the military, I met Mark Bavaro after a game. He noticed my military insignia and asked if I was going to Saudi Arabia for the Gulf War. When I said I might be, he took down my name and unit number and told me that the team prayer group would pray for me while I was gone. I can't imagine Jeremy Shockey expressing this level of sincerity toward the fans.

Leslie H. Lynn
Chesapeake, Va.