LAS VEGAS – The similarities between Daniel Jones and Eli Manning have been well-documented, but Jones also has much in common with Phil Simms, the most prolific quarterback in Giants history before Manning.
Simms was the seventh overall selection in the 1979 NFL Draft, Jones the sixth choice 40 years later. Each quarterback defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in his first career start. And both Simms and Jones battled injuries as often as opposing teams in their first five years in a Giants uniform.
Simms played in just 12 total games from 1981-83 – none in 1982 – because of shoulder, knee and thumb injuries, leading to questions about his future entering his sixth season in 1984. Because of hamstring, neck and knee injuries, Jones has had only one fully healthy season, when he led the Giants to the playoffs in 2022 and is preparing for his sixth season by rehabilitating the torn ACL he suffered last Nov. 5 here in Las Vegas. He played in a career-low six games in 2023.
Simms, who is in town as part of CBS' Super Bowl LVIII broadcast crew, can empathize more than anyone about the challenges facing Jones.
"Listen, no matter who, unless you're Patrick Mahomes and a few people, you go through these periods, and you've just got to fight," Simms said. "Would I have any things to tell Daniel Jones? Hey, man, buckle up. That's it. It's going to be rough. Just show how tough you are and do it and just keep working. That's all you can do."
To say that Simms recovered nicely would be a vast understatement. He played in every game from 1984-86, keyed the Giants' rout of the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI by completing a record 88% of his passes, and still excelled in his final season in 1993, when he started every game as the Giants advanced to the second round of the playoffs. Simms was selected to his second Pro Bowl that year.
Simms believes Jones can overcome his early-career injuries and enjoy long-term success.
"He definitely has starting NFL talent," Simms said. "That's the one thing I'll argue for as long as you want. I wish he'd yell at somebody sometimes. Is that okay? Not that that makes you a quarterback, but it just tells me something about you, too. I didn't do it on the field, but poor (center) Bart Oates. He'd sit next to me on the bench, 'Bart!' I would just look back and go, 'Why didn't he punch me?'"
Is starting talent enough to win in the NFL?
"That's a good start," Simms said. "If you don't have that, you're not going to be, 'Oh, I've got all this other stuff.' I think success gives you confidence and then you could turn into another guy. I think he has that chance, but like I said, it's going to be really rough. Why? The media, the fans, the national people who think they know everything – I shouldn't say it that way, who think they know. I think I've watched him enough. I've seen enough to see the top end. I don't know what NFL evaluator said this once, I believe in it, too, he goes, 'Watch their 20 best plays; that's who they are.' Now, it's your job as a coach to make sure they have more to do that. I kind of believe that about quarterbacks."
View photos of Super Bowl XXI MVP and Ring of Honor inductee Phil Simms through the years.
Phil Simms embraces Lawrence Taylor after the Giants defeated the Denver Broncos, 39-20, to win Super Bowl XXI.
Former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms lifts his arms to the crowd after his number was retired by Giants President Wellington Mara, center, during halftime ceremonies in Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday, Sept. 4, 1995. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
FILE - In this Jan. 25, 1987, file photo, New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass to Mark Bavaro to put the Giants ahead 15-10 in third quarter of Super Bowl XXI game against the Denver Broncos in Pasadena, Calif. Simms was about as close to perfect as a QB can be, going 22 of 25 for 268 yards, three TD passes and zero interceptions in the 1987 Super Bowl, leading the New York Giants past the Broncos 39-20 and earning MVP honors. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta, File)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) shown in action in Super Bowl XXI game in Pasadena, Ca., Sunday, Jan. 25, 1987. The Giants defeated the Denver Broncos, 39-20. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) poses with the Super Bowl Most Valuable Player trophy and an automobile presented to him by Sports Magazine in Anaheim, Calif., Jan. 26, 1987. (AP Photo/Nick Ut)
With temperatures below freezing, New York Giants head coach Bill Parcells gets a confetti shower from quarterback Phil Simms during a celebration with fans at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 27, 1987. The Giants defeated the Denver Broncos 39-20 in Super Bowl XXI Sunday, Jan. 25, for their first Super Bowl victory and first NFL championship in 30 years. Coach Parcells holds the Vince Lombardi trophy aloft. (AP Photo/Mike Derer)
New York Giants coach Bill Parcells and quarterback Phil Simms (11) take the field with the team at the Meadowlands. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) drops back to pass during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) scrambles for yardage against the Chicago Bears during the third quarter in Chicago, Ill., Sept. 22, 1992. (AP Photo/Fred Jewell)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), who led the team to the 1987 Super Bowl XXI victory over the Denver Broncos, is the talk of "The Tonight Show" as he and guest-host Garry Shandling share a laugh in Burbank, Calif., Jan. 29, 1987. (AP Photo/Bob Galbraith)
Ex-New York Giants Phil Simms, right, Michael Strahan, center, and Otis Anderson stand next to four Vince Lombardi trophy during a ceremony before the NFL football game between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 9, 1984. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) throws during a practice session in 1987. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets to pass during the Giants 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), left, uses a fourth quarter time out to talk to coach Ray Perkins on the sidelines during 26-7 loss to the New York Jets at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 1, 1981. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms circa 1992. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) acknowledges fans after he ledt the game in the fourth quarter at Washington's RFK Stadium, Oct. 10, 1993. (AP Photo/Marcy Nighswander)
Former New York Giants players (left to right) Otis Anderson, Michael Strahan and Phil Simms pose with the Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophies prior to a week 1 NFL football game between the New York Giants against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford, New Jersey on September 5, 2012. The Cowboys defeated the giants 24-17. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) unleashes a pass during a workout in Anaheim, Calif., Jan. 23, 1987. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) talks about his team's 39-20 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI at a news conference in Anaheim, Calif., Jan. 26, 1987. (AP Photo/Nick Ut)
New York Giants Phil Simms (11) during a game from his 1993 season with the New York Giants. Phil Simms played for 14 years, all with the Giants and was a 2-time Pro Bowler. (David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) gets instructions from the Giants head coach Bill Parcells during second half action against the Vikings in Minneapolis, Nov. 17, 1986. (AP Photo/Larry Salzman)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), left, talks with Giants offensive coordinator Ron Erhardt during training camp at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, N.J., July 22, 1988. (AP Photo/Hal Brown)
Phil Simms being recognized as a former NFL Super Bowl MVP during pre game ceremonies prior to kickoff against the Carolina Panthers in the NFL Super Bowl 50 at Santa Clara, Calif. February 7, 2016 (Eric Bakke via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 9, 1984. (AP Photo)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Eric Curry (75) pressures New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) during the first quarter of their match up at Giants Stadium, Sept. 12, 1993. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Ex-New York Giant Phil Simms holds up a Vince Lombardi trophy during a ceremony before the NFL football game between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants coach and players get together in New York for a pre-season luncheon, Aug. 29, 1980. From left to right are: linebacker Harry Carson, coach Ray Perkins, quarterback Phil Simms and linebacker Ray Van Pelt. (AP Photo/Ray Howard)
New York Giants coach Bill Parcells, left, and quarterback Phil Simms meet the press during picture day in Costa Mesa, Calif., Jan. 21, 1987. (AP Photo/Steve Pyle)
(Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision for Chase/AP Images).
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to pass during the Giants 49 - 3 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the 1986 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on Jan. 4, 1987 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
Former New York Giants players Michael Strahan and Phil Simms hold the Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophies prior to a week 1 NFL football game between the New York Giants against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford, New Jersey on September 5, 2012. The Cowboys defeated the giants 24-17. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), right, chats with head coach Bill Parcells about past games Jan. 22, 1987 in Anaheim, Calif., as they prepare to workout for a future game. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Quarterback Phil Simms (11) of the New York Giants looks to pass in a 21 - 14 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Nov. 24 1991 in Tampa, Fla. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
NFL Network and CBS Sports announcer Phil Simms can be seen in the press box as they broad cast the game during a Week 15 NFL football game between the Arizona Cardinals against the St. Louis Rams in St. Louis, Missouri on Thursday, December 11, 2014. The Cardinals defeated the Rams 12-6. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) warms his hands as he comes to the line of scrimmage in the third quarter, Jan. 9, 1994, at Giants Stadium. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) blows into his hands to stay warm at the line of scrimmage during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets to pass during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms circa 1992. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets to pass during a 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), center, looks downfield for a receiver as he is sacked by Bruce Radford, left, of the Denver Broncos during the first half at Giants Stadium, Aug. 16, 1980. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) looks for a receiver during the second day of practice at the Giants training camp in Pleasantville, N.Y., July 28, 1987. (AP Photo/G. Paul Burnett)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) looks for an open receiver during the Giants 17-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on January 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Phil Simms, New York Giants quarterback, July 23, 1980. (AP Photo/G. Paul Burnett)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms puts on his shoulder pads as he prepares to practice for the first time in Anaheim, Calif., Jan. 19, 1987 where his team is practicing for Super Bowl XXI. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Phil Simms quarterback for the New York Giants puts a little throwing time in during a short practice at Scottsdale Community Colleg, Nov. 7, 1989. (AP Photo/Jeff Robbins)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) reacts to a touchdown scored in the second quarter against the Miami Dolphins in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 24, 1990. (AP Photo/Bobeto Matthews)
File-This 1986, file photo shows New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) dropping back to pass while the Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets set to block him during Pro Bowl Games in Hawaii. (AP Photo/File)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), left, as he is caught by the New York Jets Greg Buttle in tyhe second quarter of 26-7 loss to the Jets at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1981. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants head coach Bill Parcells, second from right, and quarterback Phil Simms (11) pose for photographers with defensive end George Martin (75) and linebacker Harry Carson at Super Bowl XXI picture day, Jan. 20, 1987, in Costa Mesa, Calif. (AP Photo/Ed Andriesky)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) rolls out to pass behind guard Billy Ard (67) during the 1986 NFC Championship NFL game against the Washington Redskins in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 11, 1987. The Giants shutout the Redskins 17-0. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms circa 1992. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
Former New York Giant quarterback Phil Simms holds a Super Bowl trophy before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Wednesday, September 5, 2012, at MetLife Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 24-17. (AP Photo/James D Smith)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) left, talks with Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Seth Joyner as they leave the field after the Giants beat the Eagles at Giants Stadium, Oct. 17, 1993. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath and former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms await Namath making the coin flip before the Seattle Seahawks played in the NFL Super Bowl XLVIII football game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014 in MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 43-8. (AP Photo/Kevin Terrell)
Phil Simms, left, and Roger Staubach attend the CBS Network 2015 Programming Upfront at The Tent at Lincoln Center on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, in New York. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) 1986. Location unknown. (AP Photo)
New York Giants coach Bill Parcells, left, and quarterback Phil Simms meet the press during picture day in Costa Mesa, Calif., Jan. 21, 1987. (AP Photo/Steve Pyle)
Coach Bill Parcels of the New York Giants poses with quarterback Phil Simms (11), linebacker Harry Carson (53) and defensive end George Martin (75) beforeSuper Bowl XXI January 25,1987 in Pasadena. The Giants defeated the Broncos 39- 20. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms dresses the part of Chicago Bears' Jim McMahon during taping of a promotion for MTV at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 22, 1986. Simms sports the trademark headband, marked MTV, and sunglasses mimicking Jim McMahon. Simms will be a guest video jockey for MTV on Jan. 13, 1987. (AP Photo/G. Paul Burnett)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) talks on the sideline during the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Nov. 25, 1990 in Philadelphia. The Eagles won the game 31-13. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants coach Bill Parcels talks with quarterback Phil Simms (11) during a Dec. 24, 1989 NFL football game. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms limbers up on the chinning bar at the Giants training facility at Pace University in Pleasantville, N.Y., July 18, 1980. (AP Photo/G. Paul Burnett)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) smiles as he talks about the Giants 39-20 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI in Pasadena, Jan. 26, 1987. (AP Photo/Lennox McLendon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) in action against the Dallas Cowboys at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 9, 1984. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), right, chats with head coach Bill Parcells about past games Jan. 22, 1987 in Anaheim, Calif., as they prepare to workout for a future game. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms eyes the bench and raises his hands in victory after he completed a third down pass for a fourth quarter first down that assured the Giants possession of the ball as the clock ran out on their 17-14 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Giants Stadium, Sept. 23, 1984. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), left, as he is caught by the New York Jets Greg Buttle in tyhe second quarter of 26-7 loss to the Jets at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1981. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants head coach Dan Reeves, right, confers with quarterback Phil Simms on the sidelines during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Oct. 17, 1993 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
(Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision for Chase/AP Images).
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms circa 1992. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) is mobbed at a media interview session at the team's Costa Mesa, California hotel, Jan. 20, 1987. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Former NFL star Marcus Allen, right, and Phil Simms talk during the annual Television Critics Association summer meeting in Pasadena, Calif., Friday, July 24, 1998. Simms and Allen will be the analysts on CBS? ?NFL Today.? (AP Photo/Nick Ut)
Former New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath, left, talks with former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms, before the NFL Super Bowl XLVIII football game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Denver Broncos Sunday, Feb. 2, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) talks on the sideline phone during the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Nov. 25, 1990 in Philadelphia. The Eagles won the game 31-13. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Former New York Giants quaterback Phil Simms talks to the fans at halftime during an NFL football game against the St. Louis Rams on Monday September 19, 2011 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) rolls out during an NFL game against the Denver Broncos at Mile High Stadium on December 10, 1989. The Giants defeated the Broncos 14-7. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
Former New York Giants quarterback and Super Bowl XXI MVP Phil Simms waves to fans during a ceremony prior to the NFL Super Bowl 50 football game between the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), left, uses a fourth quarter time out to talk to coach Ray Perkins on the sidelines during 26-7 loss to the New York Jets at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 1, 1981. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Former New York Giants players Phil Simms, left, and George Martin talk during an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the St. Louis Rams Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Former New York Giants player Phil Simms claps while being honored at during an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the St. Louis Rams Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Former New York Giants player Phil Simms gestures during the Ring of Honor Ceremony during an NFL football game between the Chicago Bears and the New York Giants at New Meadowlands Stadium Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), left, talks with Giants offensive coordinator Ron Erhardt during training camp at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, N.J., July 22, 1988. (AP Photo/Hal Brown)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 15, 1994. 49ers beat Giants 44-3. New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls time out. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 15, 1994. 49ers beat Giants 44-3. New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms celebrates his 53-yard pass to Lionel Manuel in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Irving, Texas, Nov. 4, 1984. (AP Photo/LK)
Former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms displays the Superbowl trophy before a week 1 Wednesday night football game against division rival Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday September 5, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants starting quarter Phil Simms, watches his team play against the Phoenix Cardinals from the Sidelines at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Oct. 12, 1992. Simms, who is expected to undergo surgery on his elbow Monday, sat out the game and may be out of action for the rest of the season. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) looks on during pregame warmups before the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Dec. 4, 1989 in East Rutherford, N.J.. The Eagles won the game 24-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) reacts after throwing a second quarter touchdown to wide receiver Stacy Robinson against the Phoenix Cardinals at Giants Stadium in N.J., Dec. 4, 1988. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets to pass during a 39 - 20 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI on Jan. 25, 1987 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Cal. Simms had 22 completions in 25 attempts and was named the game MVP. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms circa 1992. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) looks to handoff during a 17 - 10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in the 1993 NFC Wild Card Playoff Game on Jan. 9, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
Phil Simms, New York Giants quarterback, July 23, 1980. (AP Photo/G. Paul Burnett
Former New York Giant quarterback Phil Simms holds a Super Bowl trophy before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Wednesday, September 5, 2012, at MetLife Stadium. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 24-17. (AP Photo/James D Smith)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms drops back to pass as San Francisco 49ers defensive end Dwaine Board (76) moves in to make the tackle during the first half of their NFL game in Candlestick Park, Dec. 1, 1986. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), applauds after the Giants made a crucial first down in the fourth quarter against the Houston Oilers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 21, 1991. (AP Photo/Mark Phillips)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) attempts to escape the grasp of St. Louis Cardinals E.J. Junior (54) during the second half in St. Louis, Nov. 24, 1985. (AP Photo/Oscar Waters)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) smiles as he talks about the Giants 39-20 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXI in Pasadena, Jan. 26, 1987. (AP Photo/Lennox McLendon)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) prepares to hand the ball off during a practice session at Scottsdale Community College in Tempe, Ariz., Nov. 8, 1989. (AP Photo/Jeff Robbins)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 27, 1989. 49ers Beat Giants 34-24. 49er defensive end Pierce Holt (78) misses stoping Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) passing to running back Ottis Anderson (24). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms reacts after a touchdown pass to tight end Zeke Mowatt in the first quarter of Super Bowl XXI, Jan. 25, 1987 in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms winds up to pass in the first quarter of Super Bowl XXI, Jan. 25, 1987 in Pasadena, Calif. Left is Broncos Rulon Jones (75) and Giants left tackle Brad Benson (60). (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
Former New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms lifts his arms to the crowd after his number was retired by Giants President Wellington Mara, center, during halftime ceremonies in Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Monday, Sept. 4, 1995. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) is hugged and picked up by teammate Brad Benson (60) after touchdown pass in fourth quarter of Super Bowl XXI game in Pasadena, Ca., Sunday, Jan. 25, 1987. The Giants defeated the Denver Broncos, 39-20. At right is Broncos' Rulon Jones (75). (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass to Mark Bavaro to put the Giants ahead 15-10 in third quarter of Super Bowl XXI game in Pasadena, Ca., Sunday, Jan. 25, 1987. The Giants defeated the Denver Broncos, 39-20. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)
New York Giants Phil Simms (11) and the offense huddle during Giants training camp on July 25, 1984. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) calls the snap count during the NFL football game between the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Giants on September 22, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 21-0. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) signs autographs for Holt and Kirstin Wooddell of Burgaw, North Carolina at the Giants training camp at Fairleigh Dickinson University, July 19, 1988. (AP Photo/Hal Brown)
Though Simms can recite the similarities between him and the successor who is following his path four decades later, he believes he would not have received the chance to continue his career after spending much of his early years convalescing in today's NFL.
"No, I would not have," Simms said. "They would have moved on. You got hurt, you've been hurt, get out. Not get out, but that's just the way it would be. Really, the media and the fan base would drive it a lot. They tried to do it to me anyways.
"If you're a quarterback and you get to the NFL, you'd better turn it on quick because the windows are shorter and shorter. First-round guys get two years, and they bench them. It's crazy. I'm glad it wasn't that way when I came out."
Why didn't the Giants seek an alternative to Simms?
"First off, I was a high draft pick, so that helped me a lot," Simms said. "Two, I'm trying to phrase this the right way, I was better than the other guys. That's why they kept me. I never walked on the field and went, 'Wow, this guy throws it better than me.' So maybe I was arrogant, which I was at times, of course. But I think that's another reason. There were spurts even when I was getting hurt that I had gains. I didn't know this when I was playing, but I look back and go, 'Wow, they were patient with me, and it worked out, I think.'"
As it can for Jones.
*CBS is televising its record 22nd Super Bowl. Simms has been with the network since 1998, first as a game analyst and since 2017 as part of CBS' studio show, "The NFL Today." Always cooperative and candid, Simms shared his opinions on several topics at a news conference attended by on and off-camera CBS personnel.
*On whether he considers Mahomes the NFL's best quarterback.
"I do," he said. "He changed the landscape of quarterbacks. For real; it's not an overstatement. I'm involved with a lot of quarterbacks. We teach everything that Patrick Mahomes does, because he does it perfectly. He's on the run, what he does mechanically, all that, it's perfect. Of course, he's a big guy, long arms, big hands, that really helps a lot. But everybody teaches the Patrick Mahomes style now, and honestly, if you can't do it, good luck in the NFL."
*But not every quarterback can do what Mahomes can…
"They've got to be able to do it to a certain degree," Simms said. "I mean grade school kids that can run right and throw it to the left side of the field. Oh, you can't throw across to the left. Oh, really, who made that rule? Mahomes has done 250 of them in his career. You teach them all that when they're young. It's an explosion. Look at this year's draft. It's going to be like that almost every year."
*Reviewing Mahomes' mechanics:
"Let's break it down little by little," Simms said. "One, he's a tremendous athlete, and his running doesn't get the credit it deserves. He can do anything. I'm sure he could shoot 3-pointers and hit eight out of 10. He's a baseball pitcher, which is a big thing. But his mechanics, they're flawless. It's not what people think. His mechanics are flawless. You don't have a bad golf swing and get lucky on a turn. Quarterbacks, when you have the mechanics down, it gives you confidence, you feel like you can do anything, you make great decisions. Because all you need to see is a window you can get it to. The way he played when he came out of college, yes, it was different. I couldn't wait to watch him in the pros. In the last game of his rookie year, he played Denver. Hell, the weekend was over, that's all I was thinking about, 'I can't wait to watch this game.' And I went home and watched, and I was like, 'Oh my god, he's real.'"
*On the challenges of competing in today's NFL.
*Every quarterback and coach is judged week to week," Simms said. "I'm amazed by it. It's just so opinionated. Having a good year is not good enough anymore. I mean, I was listening to TV today, and guys were sitting there saying it's a wasted year if they don't win. And I'm like, I don't know if it's a wasted year. It's something you live with and maybe it's a missed opportunity, but to categorize everything in such a harsh way is … I have a hard time with TV. That's why I like my job because I get to counter people who say stupid things."
*On still holding the Super Bowl completion percentage record 37 years after hitting 22 of 25 passes against Denver:
"I'd say to my family and friends, it's a lot more important than it is to me," Simms said. "They talk about it every year. I think I'm right in saying this, four years ago, Jimmy Garoppolo was 19-of-21 (actually, 18-of-21). I said he's going to probably beat it because it was just easy. And then I don't know, he tipped a pass or something (and finished 20-of-31). But yeah, it's something that I like. At this time of year, I'd like to hear it every once in a while, but it's never mentioned."
*Thirty years after his final game, does he ever reflect on his big victories and other accomplishments?
"I think really what happens even in this business that I'm in now, and especially in football and sports, I think more about the ones we lost," he said. "Yeah, I do. I thought we had a championship team in '88, and we let the Jets beat us in the last game of the year. I felt the thing with that year, it was about our offense just scoring when we wanted, and it was different on the defensive side.
"But '89, that was a huge one that got away, or at least we should have been at worst in the (conference) championship game. So, really, I think about them probably more than I do (wins). But I think most guys are that way. I think most players are like, 'Yeah, we did this and did (that), but damn, we let a few get away.' I think covering the league now, I realize how hard it is to have success. I don't think I realized that as much when I was playing, because damn, we just had a lot of good players for quite a big stretch."
*Does attending the Super Bowl bring back memories of playing in the game?
"Not really," Simms said. "I think what I do keeps me pretty tuned in for everything but that. But I think, listen, I'd be lying (if I didn't say) every once in a while, I could be driving in my car going, 'Wow, how lucky was I,' that we did have success and all that. Then I think, too, if you don't have that certain success as a player, mostly as a quarterback, because people know it and all that, that you've got live with it. I'm angry enough. I sure didn't need that."
View photos of the all-time history of New York Giants in the Pro Bowl.
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) drops back to pass while the Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets set to block him during Pro Bowl Games in Hawaii in 1986. (AP Photo)
NFC New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) chases the action during the NFL Pro Bowl Football game against the AFC on Feb. 6, 2000 in Honolulu. The NFC won the game 51-31. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants Hall of Fame quarterback Fran Tarkenton (10) of the East rolls out to pass as Baltimore Colts defensive tackle Fred Miller (76) of the West applies pressure during the 1968 NFL Pro Bowl in Los Angeles, Calif., Jan. 21, 1968.
Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame linebacker Dave Robinson (89) and Detroit Lions Hall of Fame cornerback Lem Barney (20) pursue New York Giants running back Ernie Koy (24) of the East during the 1968 NFL Pro Bowl in Los Angeles, Calif., Jan. 21, 1968.
New York Giants quarterback Norm Snead (16) of the NFC throws a pass during the 1973 NFL Pro Bowl in Irving, Texas, Jan. 21, 1973. The AFC defeated the NFC 33-28 at Texas Stadium.
New York Giants running back Ron Johnson (30) of the NFC runs away from Houston Oilers defensive end Elvin Bethea (65) of the AFC during the 1973 NFL Pro Bowl in Irving, Texas, Jan. 21, 1973. The AFC defeated the NFC 33-28 at Texas Stadium.
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) takes a defensive stance during the NFL Pro Bowl football game between the AFC and the NFC in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 29, 1984. The NFC won the game 45-3.
NFC defensive back Mark Haynes (36) of the New York Giants runs with the football after intercepting a pass during the NFC's 45-3 victory over the AFC in the 1984 NFL Pro Bowl played on January 29, 1984 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo)
NFC linebacker Brad Van Pelt (10) of the New York Giants in action during the NFC's 21-7 victory over the AFC in the 1981 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1981 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson (53) at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 16-13 AFC victory on January 31, 1982, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC quarterback Joe Theismann (7) of the Washington Redskins congratulates Giants place kicker Ali Haji-Sheikh (6) after kicking a 23-yard field goal during the NFC's 45-3 victory over the AFC in the 1984 NFL Pro Bowl played on January 29, 1984 at Aloha S
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) drops back to pass while the Chicago Bears running back Walter Payton (34) gets set to block him during Pro Bowl Games in Hawaii in 1986.
NFC running back Joe Morris of the New York Giants carries the football during the NFC's 28-24 victory over the AFC in the 1986 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 2, 1986 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC New York Giants nose tackle Jim Burt (64) looks on during the 1987 NFL Pro Bowl football game between the AFC and the NFC on February 1, 1987 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC won the game 10-6. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (Hall of Fame Class of 2004) has his pass batted down by Giants defensive tackle Leonard Marshall (70) during the AFC's 10-6 victory over the NFC in the 1987 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1987 at Aloha Stadium.
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson signs autographs for fans at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 15-6 AFC victory on February 7, 1988, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC linebacker Carl Banks of the New York Giants during the NFC's 15-6 loss to the AFC in the 1988 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 7, 1988 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants safety Terry Kinard (43) picks off a pass during the NFL Pro Bowl, a 34-3 NFC victory on January 29, 1989, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor (57) at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 27-21 NFC victory on February 4, 1990, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC center Bart Oates of the New York Giants signs autographs for fans before the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 3, 1991 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC punter Sean Landeta (5) of the New York Giants kicks the football away during the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 3, 1991 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC tackle William Roberts of the New York Giants during the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 3, 1991 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC cornerback Reyna Thompson (22) of the New York Giants and safety Mark Carrier (24) of the Chicago Bears line up opposite AFC punt team gunner Steve Tasker (89) of the Buffalo Bills during the NFC's 23-21 loss to the AFC in the 1991 NFL Pro Bowl.
NFC center Bart Oates (65) of the New York Giants sets to snap the football during the NFC's 21-15 victory over the AFC in the 1992 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 2, 1992 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Giants running back Rodney Hampton on Pro Bowl Media Day before the AFC's 23-20 overtime victory over the NFC in the 1993 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 7, 1993 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC running back Rodney Hampton (27) of the New York Giants carries the football during the NFC's 17-3 victory over the AFC in the 1994 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 6, 1994 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
NFC defensive end Michael Strahan (92) of the New York Giants in action during the AFC's 29-24 victory over the NFC in the 1998 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1998 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
AFC head coach Bill Belichick (facing camera) and NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, who is retiring from pro football, embrace on the field following the Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007.
Antonio Pierce #58 and Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants during pregame introductions as the AFC and NFC All-Stars compete in the 2007 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 10, 2007 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 31-28. (AP Photo)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72), of the NFC team, is introduced as the lone Super Bowl champion Giants player before the Pro Bowl football game in Honolulu, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2008.
New York Giants football players from left to right, Zak DeOssie (51), Eli Manning (10), Chris Snee (76), Justin Tuck (91), John Carney (5), Shaun O'Hara (60), and Jeff Feagles (18) pose for photos with hula dancers before an NFC practice.
NFC All-Stars Tiki Barber #21, Osi Umenyiora #72, David Tyree #85, and Michael Strahan #92 pose for a team photo
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith (12) celebrates a touchdown catch with tackle David Diehl (66) during first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) talks to center Shaun O'Hara (60) during the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, left, and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, pose for photos with their dad Archie Manning, center, before Pro Bowl football practice in Kapolei, Hawaii, Friday Feb. 6, 200
NFC All-Stars quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants throws a pass against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars punter Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants punts the ball to the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars place kicker John Carney #5 of the New York Giants kicks a fourth quarter field goal to give his team a 30-21 lead against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck flashes a Hawaiian "shaka" sign on the field before Pro Bowl NFL football game at Aloha Stadium, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) points to a first down during the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, in Miami. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants center Shaun O'Hara (60) of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars during the 2010 NFL Pro Bowl, January 31, 2010 in Miami, Florida. The AFC won the game 41-34. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants guard Chris Snee (76) of the NFC plays in the NFL Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011 in Honolulu.
New York Giants long snapper Zak DeOssie (51) comes out on the field prior to the NFL AFC/NFC 2011 Pro Bowl on Sunday January 30, 2011 in Honolulu, HI. The NFC won the game 55-41. (AP Photo/ Jim Mahoney)
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, left,, New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, center, and Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) share a laugh before the NFC team photo at the NFL Football Pro Bowl in Kapolei, Hawaii, Friday, Jan. 25, 2013.
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) of the NFC breaks away from Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Robert Mathis (98) and Houston Texans cornerback Johnathan Joseph (24) of the AFC to score a touchdown in the second quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl game in Honolulu, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013.
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) of the NFC celebrates a touchdown reception by doing the salsa during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35.
Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) of the AFC pulls down New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC after Pierre-Paul made an interception during the forth quarter of the NFL Pro Bowl football game in Honolulu, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2013. The NFC beat the AFC 62-35.
New York Giants offensive lineman Chris Snee (76) of the NFC blocks at the line of scrimmage during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game, Sunday, January 27, 2013 in Honolulu. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35.
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle (26) of Team Rice before the start of the NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014, in Honolulu.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) hugs Michael Irvin after being selected by Team Irvin during the Pro Bowl draft at the Arizona Biltmore on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 in Phoenix, Arizona.
New York Giants' Odell Beckham shakes hands with young spectators before the NFL Football Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, in Glendale, Ariz.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) of Team Irvin runs the ball as Denver Broncos cornerback Aqib Talib (21) of Team Carter defends during the 2015 NFL Pro Bowl game at the University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday, January 25, 2015 in Glendale, AZ.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (13), of Team Rice, makes a one handed catch following practice on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, in Kahuku, Hawaii.
New York Giants Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) intercepts a pass intended for New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. (13) during the NFL Pro Bowl football game, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) looks to pass during the NFL Pro Bowl football game, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu.
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), of Team Rice, celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL Pro Bowl football game against Team Irvin on, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu.
New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) of Team Irvin returns an interception during an NFL Pro Bowl Game against Team Rice on January 31, 2016. Team Irvin defeated Team Rice 49-27.
New York Giants safety Landon Collins (21) runs upfield during the NFC football practice for the NFL Pro Bowl, Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 at Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
New York Giants Odell Beckham Jr. (13) competes in the Drone Drop event at the 2017 Pro Bowl Skills Challenge on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
AFC fullback Kyle Juszczyk (44), of the Baltimore Ravens, is tackled by NFC linebacker Anthony Barr (55), of the Minnesota Vikings, and defensive back Janoris Jenkins (20), of the New York Giants, after catching a pass during the first half of the NFL Pro Bowl football game in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017.
New York Giants strong safety Landon Collins (21) lines up during the NFL Pro Bowl football game Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017, in Orlando, Fla.
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (13) and his teammates pose in the end zone before the 2017 NFL Pro Bowl football game Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017 in Orlando. The AFC won 20 - 13.
Michael Strahan of the New York Giants laughs as he answers a question during a press conference to promote the Pro Bowl during festivities for Super Bowl XL in Detroit Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
NFC linebacker Kevin Greene of the Carolina Panthers looks innocent enough after getting Michael Strahan, Reggie White, and John Randle to crack up on Pro Bowl Media Day before the AFC's 23-10 victory over the NFC in the 1999 NFL Pro Bowl played on Februa (Paul Spinelli via AP)
HONOLULU, HI - FEBRUARY 9: New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the NFC runs in pursuit against the AFC in the 2002 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 9, 2002 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-30. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
HONOLULU, HI - FEBRUARY 9: New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the NFC tries to beat a block against the AFC in the 2002 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 9, 2002 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-30. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
Left to right, Barry Sanders, who retired from the Detroit Lions, Michael Strahan of the New York Giants, Tony Gonzalez of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Antonio Gates of the San Diego Chargers speaks during a press conference to promote the Pro Bowl during festivities for Super Bowl XL in Detroit Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
New York Giants' Osi Umenyiora, center left, and Michael Strahan, center right, clown around as they get ready for a team photo with hula dancers Anreana Tseu, left, and Liana Green, right, prior to NFC practice for the Pro Bowl Friday, Feb. 10, 2006, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
HONOLULU, HI - FEBRUARY 9: Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez #87 of the AFC runs a pass pattern against New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the NFC in the 2000 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 6, 2000 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 51-31. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
Michael Strahan, left, of the New York Giants, and Tony Gonzalez of the Kansas City Chiefs, take questions during a press conference to promote the Pro Bowl during festivities for Super Bowl XL in Detroit Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2006. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
NFC Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Ronde Barber, left, greets his twin brother NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber following the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
A detail view of the gold chain worn by New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) following an NFC Team Practice prior to an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
NFC defensive back Michael Thomas (31), of the New York Giants, runs onto the field during player introductions before the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) and New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate after a play during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The AFC team won 26-7. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on following an NFC Team Practice prior to an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
NFC running back Saquon Barkley (26), of the New York Giants, runs onto the field during player introductions before the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during the NFL Pro Bowl Football Game, Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. The AFC beat the NFC 26-7. (Matt Patterson via AP)
New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) looks on from the sideline during the NFL Pro Bowl football game between the NFC National Football Conference and the AFC American Football Conference on Sunday, Feb. 1, 1987 in Honolulu. The AFC won the game 10-6. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry (80) talks with New York Giants outside linebacker Olivier Vernon (54) during an NFL Pro Bowl football game on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 in Orlando, Fla. The AFC team won 26-7. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants defensive back Michael Thomas (31) catches a pass during practice for the 2019 Pro Bowl, Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019 in Kissimmee, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is seen during practice for the 2019 Pro Bowl, Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019 in Kissimmee, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
NFC safety Landon Collins (21), of the New York Giants, watches from the sideline during the second half of the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 29, 2017. The AFC won 20-13. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
NFC quarterback Russell Wilson (3), of the Seattle Seahawks, hands off to running back Saquon Barkley (26), of the New York Giants, before the NFL Pro Bowl football game Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) jokes around with New York Jets center Nick Mangold (74) at the NFL Pro Bowl football draft at Wheeler Army Airfield, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, in Wahiawa, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), of Team Rice, celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL Pro Bowl football game against Team Irvin on, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 27-21 NFC victory on February 4, 1990, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
NFC linebacker Jessie Armstead (98) of the New York Giants in action during the AFC's 29-24 victory over the NFC in the 1998 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1998 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of the NFC is introduced during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) of the NFC talks with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of the NFC during Pro Bowl practice at Joint Base Pearl Habor-Hickam in Honolulu, Hawaii on Thursday, January 24, 2013. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball while chased by AFC safety Troy Polamalu #43 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2005 NFL Pro Bowl All-Stars game on February 13, 2005 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-27. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC linebacker Jessie Armstead (98) of the New York Giants in action during the AFC's 29-24 victory over the NFC in the 1998 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 1, 1998 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
NFC New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) and Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka wear leis as they pose for a team photograph during the week of the 1989 NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC on Jan. 24, 1989 in Honolulu. The NFC won the game 34-3. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Jessie Armstead at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
NFC running back Rodney Hampton of the New York Giants during Pro Bowl Media Day before the NFC's 17-3 victory over the AFC in the 1994 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 6, 1994 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan at photo day for the NFL Pro Bowl on January 31, 1998, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10), New York Jets center Nick Mangold (74), Buffalo Bills center Eric Wood (70), Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Logan Mankins (70) are seen at the NFL Pro Bowl football draft at Wheeler Army Airfield, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016, in Wahiawa, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
NFC running back Rodney Hampton of the New York Giants carries the football during the NFC's 23-20 overtime loss to the AFC in the 1993 NFL Pro Bowl played on February 7, 1993 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) of the NFC team catches punts in a sumo suit during a NFC Team Practice on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants safety Terry Kinard (43) picks off a pass during the NFL Pro Bowl, a 34-3 NFC victory on January 29, 1989, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson signs autographs for fans at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 15-6 AFC victory on February 7, 1988, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor shakes hands with then-Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Alan Page at the NFL Pro Bowl, a 15-6 AFC victory on February 7, 1988, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) of the NFC makes a touchdown reception during the NFL Pro Bowl all-star football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC defeated the AFC 62-35. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC signs autographs after NFC Pro Bowl practice at Kapolei High School in Kapolei, Hawaii on Wednesday, January 23, 2013. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of Team Rice throws a pass during the NFL Pro Bowl football game against Team Irvin on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016 in Honolulu. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) of Team Rice makes a play during the first quarter of the NFL Pro Bowl football game, Sunday, Jan. 31, 2016, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
NFC All-Stars punter Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants punts the ball to the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. of Team Rice catches a pass with one hand during NFL Pro Bowl football practice, Friday, Jan. 29, 2016, in Kahuku, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Eugene Tanner) Team Rice
New York Giants safety Antrel Rolle (26) of Team Rice during the third quarter at the NFL Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) of the NFC team dunks a football during a NFC Team Practice on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017 in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC signs autographs after NFC Pro Bowl practice at Kapolei High School in Kapolei, Hawaii on Wednesday, January 23, 2013. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
NFC free safety Antrel Rolle, of the New York Giants, and linebacker Jon Beason (52), of the Carolina Panthers, celebrate during the first quarter against the AFC in the Pro Bowl NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/ Marco Garcia)
(L-R) NBC Sports game analyst Al Michaels poses for a photo with quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants and father Archie Manning prior to the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl against the AFC All-Stars at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars place kicker John Carney #5 of the New York Giants kicks a fourth quarter field goal to give his team a 30-21 lead against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars guard Chris Snee #76 of the New York Giants blocks AFC All-Stars defensive tackle Shaun Rogers #92 of the Cleveland Browns in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) points to a first down during the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010, in Miami. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants drops back to pass at practice the day before the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 7, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants looks to hand off the ball on a running play against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars punter Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants punts the ball to the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Hula girls flank members of the NFC All-Stars (L-R) Zak DeOssie #51, Eli Manning #10, Chris Snee #76, Justin Tuck #91, John Carney #5, Shaun O'Hara #60, and Jeff Feagles #18 of the New York Giants at team photo day the week of the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at the Ihilani Resort and Spa on February 6, 2009 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants drops back to pass during practice the week of the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at the Ihilani Resort and Spa on February 6, 2009 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC All-Stars quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants hands off the ball on a running play against the AFC All-Stars in the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 8, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 30-21. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Long snapper Zak DeOssie #51 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants works out at practice the day before the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 7, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants tackle David Diehl (66) talks to center Shaun O'Hara (60) during the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the National Football Conference NFC All-Stars New York Giants has some fun on the field with guard Chris Snee #76 of the New York Giants during practice the week of the 2009 NFL Pro Bowl at the Ihilani Resort and Spa on February 6, 2009 in Kapolei, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Antonio Pierce #58 and Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants during pregame introductions as the AFC and NFC All-Stars compete in the 2007 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 10, 2007 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 31-28. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC and New York Giants' Tiki Barber waves to the crowd at the end of the Pro Bowl football game, at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007. (AP Photo/Ronen Zilberman)
AFC head coach Bill Belichick (facing camera) and NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber, who is retiring from pro football, embrace on the field following the Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007. The AFC won, 31-28. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith (12) celebrates a touchdown catch with tackle David Diehl (66) during first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, in Miami. (AP Photo/J. Pat Carter)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber heads for an NFC touchdown in the second quarter of the Pro Bowl football game at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Saturday, Feb. 10, 2007. (AP Photo/Ronen Zilberman)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants National Football Conference NFC All-Stars gets upended by Champ Bailey #24 of the Denver Broncos at the 2006 NFL Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium on February 12, 2006 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The NFC defeated the AFC 23-17. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) of the NFC is introduced during the Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii on January 27, 2013. The NFC won 62-35. (AP Photo/Perry Knotts)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball while chased by AFC safety Troy Polamalu #43 of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2005 NFL Pro Bowl All-Stars game on February 13, 2005 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-27. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) dodges a tackle from AFC Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) in the first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
Running back Tiki Barber #21 of the New York Giants runs the ball during the 2005 NFL Pro Bowl All-Stars game on February 13, 2005 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, Hawaii. The AFC defeated the NFC 38-27. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
NFC New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) has the ball knocked loose as he is tackled by AFC Pittsburgh Steelers strong safety Tro Polamalu, right, as AFC Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Deltha O'Neal (24) looks on in the first quarter of the NFL football Pro Bowl Sunday, Feb. 12, 2006 at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu. The ball was fumbled out of bounds and the NFC retained possession.(AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) participates in the Lightning Round — Splash Catch during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) throws the ball during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
NFC head coach Eli Manning holds the trophy alongside NFC captain Pete Davidson, right, and assistant coach DeMarcus Ware, left, after the NFC defeated AFC at the NFL Pro Bowl games, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)
NFC running back Saquon Barkley (26) of the New York Giants attempts to run the ball past AFC outside linebacker Matt Milano (58) of the Buffalo Bills during the flag football event at the Pro Bowl Games, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Doug Benc/AP Images for NFL)
NFC head coach Eli Manning interacts with AFC head coach Peyton Manning after the Pro Bowl Games, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (Doug Benc/AP Images for NFL)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) is seen during player intros prior to the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks to avoid getting hit by a dodgeball during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
NFC Coach and former quarterback Eli Manning celebrates with Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (87) and Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell (58) during the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) arrives prior to the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) participates in Epic Pro Bowl Dodgeball during the 2023 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown on Thursday, February 2, 2023 in Henderson, Nevada. (Ben Liebenberg/NFL)
NFC Coach Eli Manning and AFC Coach Peyton Manning are seen with an NFL Flag official during the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Perry Knotts/NFL)
NFC defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) of the New York Giants films a Blue Man during the flag football event at the NFL Pro Bowl, Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker)
