East Rutherford, NJ – May 1, 2025 – A Philadelphia Eagles icon has crossed NFC East lines, returning to his New Jersey roots. The New York Giants hired a two-time Super Bowl champion, stirring emotions among Philly fans still savoring their latest title.
Rick Lovato, Neptune Township’s own, joined the Giants as Assistant Special Teams Coach. The Pro Bowl long snapper, who won Super Bowls LII and LIX, brings his 150-game expertise to MetLife Stadium, just miles from his childhood home.
Lovato, 32, snapped for Jake Elliott’s record-setting 61-yard field goal and 9/9 Super Bowl kicks. His 7 special teams tackles and Pro Bowl 2019 nod highlight a career forged at Joyce’s Subs and Pizza in Lincroft.
“I’m home,” Lovato said. His Jersey grit, honed at Old Dominion, complements Giants coach Brian Daboll’s staff. Lovato’s role will refine snapping for Graham Gano, aiming to boost a special teams unit ranked 28th last season.
Eagles fans, reeling from Carson Wentz’s Dallas defection, fumed at Lovato’s move. With Jalen Hurts’ 4,028 yards and Saquon Barkley’s 2,005 yards, Philly’s roster thrives, but losing Lovato to a rival stings.
The Giants, eyeing Breece Hall and led by Daniel Jones, gain Lovato’s know-how. His work with Lane Johnson’s line and Jalin Conyers’ development offers hope for a Giants revival against Philly’s Jihaad Campbell-led defense.
Lovato’s exit, after $5.7 million in cuts including Mekhi Becton, follows his two false-start penalties in Super Bowl LIX. Yet, his 135 consecutive games legacy endures, bridging Jersey pride with Giants ambition.
As Lovato coaches at MetLife, Eagles Nation grapples with his Giants allegiance. His Jersey roots, from deli counters to Super Bowl glory, now fuel a rival’s quest, setting the stage for fiery NFC East showdowns.
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