Tom Coughlin, Jutin Tuck, Eli Manning

New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, and defensive end Justin Tuck, center, applaud as head coach Tom Coughlin is introduced to the crowd during a ceremony for the NFL football Super Bowl XLVI champions at City Hall in New York.

(Kathy Willens/AP Photo)

Eight years ago this week, Justin Tuck was a 24-year-old star at the top of his game in Super Bowl XLII. Eli Manning may have won Super Bowl MVP for the Giants, but Tuck was the best player on the field against the undefeated New England Patriots.



Now, his career is over after a retirement announcement last week. Tuck, at the age of 32, is actually two years older than Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson--an all-time great receiver who is reportedly hanging his cleats up now, too.

Justin Tuck's career accomplishments



During an in-studio appearance with The Dan Patrick Show, Tuck was asked if early retirement is now becoming a trend across the NFL. His response likely won't make NFL commissioner Roger Goodell happy.







"Yea, it is," Tuck said. "I think because, one, the game of football and being an athlete gives you so many options outside the game. If we want to go do some other things, we have those options. It ain't like it used to to be. There's so many things outside of football.



"And now with all this stuff coming out about injuries and, you know, talking to the old guys and seeing what they're going through, it's something in the back of your mind. I don't think it makes the decision for you, but it's part of the decision process."



Before the interview wrapped up, Patrick asked Tuck what he would do if the Giants called to offer a one-year deal. After chuckling, his response was interesting.



"You know, I thought about that when the season ended," Tuck said. "I did think about that. I think it would have been a chance if Coach Coughlin stayed. But I think it's a good transition time. I can be thankful for nine years there and two with the Raiders."



You can watch the full interview above or listen to it here.

TALK IS CHEAP, Ep. 41: Mapping out the Giants' critical offseason

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Joe Giglio may be reached at jgiglio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoeGiglioSports. Find NJ.com on Facebook.