The pressure on NFL kickers is immense, as they’re frequently needed in the most crucial moments of a game. Their performance can single-handedly decide whether their team emerges victorious or suffers a defeat.
Consequently, they often become targets for the anger of disgruntled fans. Graham Gano, the kicker for the New York Giants, has revealed that these fans sometimes cross the line significantly.
Gano, 38, shared his experiences with ESPN in a story published on Thursday, November 6, saying, “I’m aware of the frustration from all sides — the media, the fans. It’s gotten to the point that ever since sports betting became popular, I receive messages weekly telling me to end my life. This is because I might make a kick that costs them money, or I might miss one that does the same. Just the other day, someone wished cancer and death upon me. I consider this to be part of the experience.”
Gano is currently unable to play due to a neck injury, which means he will miss the Giants’ upcoming game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
He also stated, “Having played for as long as I have, I am used to it at this point. However, I still see and understand everyone’s frustration. I am also frustrated. All I want is to play football. It is hard to constantly be unable to do so. I am doing everything within my power to make a comeback and play again. That is what I am hoping for.”
ESPN’s report indicates that the Giants and NFL security are actively monitoring threats directed at Gano, adhering to the safety regulations of the league. Despite these efforts, it remains challenging for the veteran player, who hails from Florida State, to completely disregard the negativity.
He mentioned, “No one wants to be subjected to such things. Everyone in the locker room is aware that they can seek help if they are dealing with something difficult. That is what I hope everyone here would do. Nobody appreciates hearing those kinds of remarks. My aim is simply to bring joy to the fans, contribute to the team’s victories, and it is hard when I cannot achieve that.”
He further commented, “I generally do not engage or respond. I try to limit my exposure as much as possible. If I start to see those types of messages, I immediately turn it off. Sadly, this is a reality of the sport. Many individuals will send messages of that nature. I receive letters, and during game days, fans express those sentiments directly to me, whether through DMs or in person. I have heard similar accounts from other players on the team too. It’s a challenging situation, particularly in today’s environment, given the focus on mental health.”
Gano’s revelation occurred a day after the death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, which appeared to be a suicide following a police chase. His girlfriend informed the police that he had expressed suicidal thoughts that night, and he reportedly sent goodbye messages to his family.
“This level of suffering is something you wouldn’t want on anyone,” Dak Prescott, the quarterback for the Cowboys, conveyed to CBS Sports Texas on Thursday. “We wish none of us had to experience this. We wish Marshawn didn’t have to endure what he did.”
Matt Rhule, the football coach for Nebraska, added during his weekly media briefing that supporters should not forget that they can never truly know the personal struggles a player might be facing.
He said, “I believe we should all be mindful of what we say to each other. We should be thoughtful about our social media posts concerning others. We should consider the challenges everyone might be dealing with.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
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