It was merely a formality, but the New York Giants announced Thursday evening that they have officially parted ways with former star running back Tiki Barber, releasing him from the team's reserve/retired list. Barber, the team's career rushing leader, is attempting a comeback after retiring following the 2006 season.
The team also officially announced that center Shaun O'Hara, guard Rich Seubert and offensive lineman Shawn Andrews had been released. Those three moves had been reported earlier in the week, but could not be made offically until 4:01 p.m. ET today. In addition, the team released veteran fullback Madison Hedgecock, who played only four games a season ago.
The Giants had nothing but praise for the veterans Seubert and O'Hara, who played in a combined 215 regular season and postseason games for the Giants and were part of the Super Bowl XLII championship team.
"I love those two guys," said Coach Tom Coughlin. "Both will go down in Giants history. They are two unique, highly competitive personalities who were superior in the locker room. Rich has the ability to stir it up, and Shaun has a great ability to counter Rich. They are great friends, but there have been times when they got going, that it nearly ended up in a fight. They are two men with unique and different abilities, but as an offensive line, you have to operate as one, and these two guys are the most competitive, tough and efficient players as I have ever had the honor and privilege to coach. They both will be missed around here."
The Giants also officially announced the signings of 10 undrafted free agents. They are:
- Mark Herzlich, LB, Boston College
- Justin Trattou, DE, Florida
- Craig Marshall, DE, South Florida
- Martin Parker, DT, Richmond
- Ibrahim Abdulai, DT, Arkansas-Pine Bluff
- Jerrard Tarrant, S, Georgia Tech
- David Sims, S, Iowa State
- Spencer Paysinger, LB, Oregon
- Jarriel King, OT, South Carolina
- Henry Hynoski, FB, Pittsburgh