BY JAMES SCHECTER

One year ago, Victor Cruz was fighting for an NFL roster spot just like every undrafted graduate of the 2010 class. Playing for the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Cruz put up jaw dropping numbers, catching a total of 131 passes for over 2000 yards and 11 touchdowns despite only gaining playing time as a junior and senior. NFL teams were reluctant to sign Cruz out of UMass Amherst because it is not in one of the major college football conferences.

A New York Giants fan all his life, Cruz went to the Giants in pursuit of a training camp invitation. He was awarded a chance due to his excellent college record. Cruz’s childhood dream of becoming a New York Giants wide receiver was within his grasp. He quickly made New York headlines by helping the Giants in a preseason win against the rival New York Jets with six passes for 145 yards and a staggering three touchdowns. Cruz’s breakout performance against the Jets helped him earn an opening day position on the roster. Unfortunately, 2010 was not Cruz’s year; he was soon put on the Injured Reserve after week three with a season-ending hamstring injury.

However, 2011 presented a great new opportunity for success. Cruz’s determination and dedication to the game helped him make a full recovery and regain his spot on the team. In the first two weeks of the season, Cruz was sidelined while pro bowlers Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham and Domenik Hixon caught Eli Manning’s passes. With injuries to both Manningham and Hixon, Cruz’s opportunity suddenly presented itself. Cruz, knowing what was at stake, took full advantage of this opportunity and helped lead the Giants to an important division win against the Eagles. He once again contributed big in a nail biting win against the Cardinals.

In week 5 Cruz showed no signs of slowing down, catching 8 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown in a loss to the Seahawks. Over the span of three weeks, Cruz ranked in the top 10 in the NFL in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. Suddenly, Cruz became a household name among New Yorkers and football fans. Beyond statistics, Cruz has made some of the most acrobatic catches the NFL has seen in recent years.

As well as getting praised by the New York media, Victor Cruz has received attention on the national level. Cruz was recently featured in a video by ESPN’s hit show, Sunday NFL Countdown. Cruz discussed how his success as an NFL wide receiver is based on the memory of his father, his personal icon.

Cruz has been a vital component to the Giants’ early success. He will be a critical factor in determining whether the Giants can return to the playoffs for the first time since their big Super Bowl win in 2008.