Eli Manning and Giants Working on New Deal, Still Far Apart

Prior to the 2007 season, when Eli Manning led the Giants to a championship, there were some rumblings that maybe he would never become a franchise quarterback, forget about playing as consistently as his brother.

Those sentiments lingered through most of '07 (rock bottom had to be the Week 17 four-interception effort -- three of the pick-six variety -- in a home game against the Vikings), before it all came together. Manning played like a grizzled veteran during the final weeks of the regular season, and was close to flawless in the run to the Super Bowl.

Last year, Manning was the unquestioned team leader, and if not for an unpredictable Eagles team, the Giants would have returned to the NFC Championship game for the second time in as many years. And now, Manning, who was the first overall pick in 2004, is in line for a new deal.

According to the Daily News' Ralph Vacchiano, he's looking for something in the $20 million-a-year range. The Giants, predictably, aren't interested in paying him that much, but the two side are on good terms as negotiations continue.

Neither Manning nor co-owner John Mara would discuss details when asked during Giants minicamp this week. And when Manning, whose original six-year deal was worth $45 million to $54 million, was asked if he wanted to be the NFL's highest-paid player, he said, "I don't have an ego about that. ...

Though $20 million per year might be too high, league sources expect Manning - who will make $9.4 million this season - eventually will get a deal worth around $15 million per year. Several league executives and NFL agents expect the final package to be for seven or eight years and be worth around $110 million-$120 million, with more than $40 million in guaranteed money.

Vacchiano points out that the largest contract in history was the 10-year, $130 million deal the Falcons gave Michael Vick in 2003. Although Manning won't be looking at that type of payday, the Giants won't let him hit free agency, either.

Tony Romo signed a 6-year, $67.5 million contract last year, and Ben Roethlisberger got $102 million over eight years. For Manning, something around $15 million a season sounds about right, although he doesn't sound too worried about it.

"I signed a six-year deal and I have one more year," Manning said. "Something could happen before the season starts, but I'm not worried about it right now. I hope (it'll get done). I've had a great five years here. I love the organization, I love my teammates. I hope they feel the same way. But we'll see. You never know."

Worst case: the Giants lose Eli and they give the job to Mittens. And then the fork and pitchfork crowd make their way to East Rutherford, N.J. to dispense with some mob justice.