Free-Spirited Martellus Bennett Mellowing Coughlin
ALBANY, N.Y. (WFAN/AP) — There is no doubt New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin has mellowed.
Martellus Bennett seems to bringing the Giants' head coach out of his shell.
In disclosing his relationship with free-spirited tight end, Coughlin said he has enjoyed hearing some of the former Dallas Cowboy's interesting views on life in recent weeks.
"I like them to have their own personalities," Coughlin said. "I just like them to be able to structure within the concept of trying to keep the focus on the game, on the field, and on the team. I don't like robots. I like to kid around with them every once in a while. I also like them to realize when it's acceptable, and when it isn't acceptable."
When Coughlin took over as Giants coach in 2004, there was a belief that he wanted all his players to be robots. When a reporter asked whether he had changed, the 65-year-old coach laughed and marched around the podium that he uses for post-practice news conferences like a robot, his arms and legs stiff in their movements.
Which brings us back to Bennett, who led the Giants with three catches and a touchdown against the Jags. His unique personality has drawn a lot of attention during the preseason.
Since joining the Giants, Bennett has already come out with his share of interesting quotes.
"He's an interesting guy," Coughlin said.
When asked to elaborate, he added:
"No. I wouldn't have the proper vocabulary," Coughin said, noting he has become more patient with age.
On Sunday, Bennett called himself the black Vince Vaughn and the black Will Ferrell. He has also discussed panda parenting with the media since camp opened. On Sunday he talked about sharing popcorn at the movies with fellow tight end Travis Beckum, something Bennett says he usually only does with his brothers.
"I try not to stick my hand in the popcorn at the same time he does," Bennett said.
On the field and off the field, Bennett seems to fitting in nicely with the Giants.
Is Bennett's personality and play at tight end a positive for the Giants? Share your thoughts below...
(TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
