Olivier Vernon
AP Photo/Ron Schwane

New York Giants HC Pat Shurmur and former Big Blue LB Olivier Vernon experienced a ‘run-in’ this past season.

One of the bigger moves made by the New York Giants this offseason was the trade of linebacker Olivier Vernon to the Cleveland Browns. The veteran pass-rusher ended his Giants tenure after three seasons when he was shipped off in early March.

Despite making the Pro Bowl in 2018, it was definitely the correct move by Giants general manager Dave Gettleman. Vernon simply under-produced as a member of the Giants since his 2016 contract signing worth $85 million.

Reports are now coming out that Vernon and Giants HC Pat Shurmur experienced a “run-in” last year. This may have not been the direct reason why Vernon was traded, but it certainly could’ve played a role in the final decision to ship him off to Cleveland.

Jordan Raanan of ESPN writes “Vernon had a run-in with Shurmur during a team meeting last season when he took offense to the coach’s public criticism; it occurred in front of the entire team.”

Shurmur tried to sway from the narrative that the incident is the direct reason for the trade of Vernon.

“It is important that our team functions and is healthy,” Shurmur said, per Raanan. “None of this narrative that we got rid of players — I had a strong appreciation for [Vernon] and for Odell [Beckham Jr.]. I had a strong appreciation for Landon [Collins] as a player. We develop relationships. This is the business of our sport.

“Unfortunately, some of the players move on and are playing for different teams. I would love to have 100 players. That is just the reality of it.”

Beckham was also traded in March to the Browns for a first-round pick in the NFL Draft (17th overall), a third-round pick and S Jabrill Peppers.

The Giants front office let Collins walk and test free agency. He eventually signed with the Washington Redskins on a six-year deal worth $84 million.

Vernon had 30 combined tackles and seven sacks through 11 games in 2018. This earned him Pro Bowl honors after Chicago Bears edge rusher Khalil Mack couldn’t participate due to injury.

Ryan Honey is a staff writer and host of the Wide Right Podcast.