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Marshall responds to Richardson's jab: 'Last year was difficult for all of us'

Mark J. Rebilas / USA TODAY Sports

New York Giants wide receiver Brandon Marshall showed little interest in retaliating against New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Richardson, after his former teammate disparaged him Tuesday.

Richardson made it clear that he believes the Jets are in a better position without Marshall, who featured for the team during the past two seasons.

"Let's just say there are 15 reasons why it's better," Richardson told Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News, referring to Marshall's No. 15.

Marshall demanded a release from the Jets following the 2016 season, a request the organization fulfilled. The six-time Pro Bowler promptly signed a two-year, $12-million contract with the Giants, and he holds no animus towards the Jets.

"Last year was an extremely difficult season for all of us," Marshall said to Kimberley A. Martin of Newsday. "Players and coaches fought their tails off trying to get our season turned around and it didn't happen for us. It was disappointing, but now it's a fresh year for Sheldon, for myself, for the Jets, and now I'm a Giant and I'm so excited for this opportunity.

"I'm working my butt off to learn the plays. It's like I'm starting all over again from scratch. I feel like a rookie, and I kind of like that feeling. And hopefully, I can do my job this year to the best of my ability to bring that Lombardi Trophy back where it belongs."

Marshall will be paired alongside Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard, providing the Giants with one of the most explosive receiving trios in the NFL. The veteran wide receiver has gotten a measure of closure from the Jets' disappointing 5-11 season, even if Richardson remains irate.

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