Moves are being made all over the NFL, and they are not just within the teams themselves, but some of the franchise owners, too. The New York Football Giants are selling up to 10 percent of their franchise.
The Mara and Tisch Families have co-owned the Giants for decades. The Giants were founded in 1925 by Tim Mara, who originally purchased the franchise for only $500 and then he gave ownership to his sons, Timothy J. and Wellington, later on. During a feud between the two boys, to slow everything, Timothy sold his share to Preston Robert Tisch, ending the sole ownership of the Mara Family.
The franchise is currently split down the middle at 50 percent for both of these families.
That said, both families are in the midst of offloading a non-controlling minority stake that is estimated to be worth $730 million and $785 million based on how the team’s current valuation stands.
With the way this sale is going, it has sparked a huge race between two Giants legends. Former Giants quarterback Eli Manning and former defensive end Michael Strahan. Both are former Super Bowl Champions and each one has expressed an interest in taking on a piece of the Big Blue.
They have no desire to go in on it together, though, and they have both decided that they want to make their moves on their own.
Strahan has already reported that he is teaming up with billionaire investor Marc Lasry. Together, they are trying to mount a huge bid to become minority owners. Strahan is trying to be powerful and come to the boardroom ready, just as he did when he played for the Giants.
On the other hand, Manning is also assembling his own investment group. He has been a longtime face of the franchise. Manning was very much open to joining Strahan’s bid, however he is now pursuing ownership on his own terms with hopes to continue his deep connection with the team that he already has in a brand new executive role.
In the midst of all of this, the Mara and Tisch families have made it clear that they prefer individual or family investors over the equity firms. The battle between these two Giants icons could come down to personal relationships and legacy. It won’t have much to do with money.
However, in the end, whether its Strahan, Manning, or both who return to the franchise in this new role, it could bring in a new bold era for the G-men. This one being followed by pride, loyalty, and a former championship.
