Shane Vereen: Patriots To Giants ‘Not A Step Down; If Anything, It’s A Step Up’

Shane Vereen already is buttering up his new organization and fan base.

The former New England Patriots third-down back is happy to be with the New York Giants after signing a three-year, $12.35 million contract. Vereen on Wednesday explained his decision to sign with the Giants.

“It’s just a decision for my family,” Vereen told Giants.com. “At the end of the day, I wanted to make a decision that was right for us, right for them. This is a great organization. I was fortunate enough to play in New England with another great organization, and this is no slouch. This is not a step down. If anything, it’s a step up. I’m looking forward to the opportunity, and I’m enjoying being in New York.”

Patriots fans might disagree with Vereen’s take that being with the Giants is a “step up,” but they can’t be too mad at the running back, who helped propel New England to a Super Bowl XLIX win with 11 catches for 64 yards. Vereen went out of his way to praise the Patriots and head coach Bill Belichick.

“I learned a great way to start,” Vereen said. “A way to handle yourself as a professional, a way to approach the game and a way to study the game, and really become a student of the film and the game of football. A lot of the stuff I learned there is invaluable. You can’t put a price tag on it, and I’m looking forward to furthering my knowledge.”

Thumbnail photo via Charlie Riedel/Associated Press