 |
Keith Hamilton is a passionate, yet humble, New York Giants legend. In a game played by tough men, he was known as one of the toughest. “The Hammer”, as he was affectionately known by his teammates and the Giants’ faithful, spent all twelve of his NFL seasons (1992-2003) and 173 career games in his #75 uniform, tying him for sixth place with NFL Hall-of-Famer Harry Carson on the franchise’s all-time list. After a stellar career at the University of Pittsburgh, Hamilton bypassed his senior year and entered the 1992 NFL Draft at the age of 20. Keith joined the Giants starting lineup in his second season and recorded a career high 11.5 sacks. Known for his versatility, Keith played every position on the defensive line and remained a started throughout the rest of his career, earning a reputation as a rugged and sturdy run defender who excelled at mixing it up and doing the dirty work of the interior line. During his tenure, Hamilton enjoyed three post-season appearances with the Giants (1993, 1997, and 2000), sharing in 2000’s NFC Championship. It was during this same year that Hamilton was chosen to the pro bowl after recording ten sacks during the regular season and was named the Giants’ Defensive MVP. After losing in the big game that year, Giants General Manager Ernie Accorsi credited Keith Hamilton as the spirited leader who set the tone for toughness and emotion for his football team, particularly on the drive to SuperBowl XXXV. In October 2002, Hamilton would sustain a traumatic Archilles tendon injury that sidelined him for the rest of the season. While many speculated retirement, Hamilton was determined to work tirelessly in his rehabilitation to be ready for the start of training camp the following season. After completing a strong 2002-2003 season where Keith started in all fifteen of the games in which he played, missing just one with a hamstring injury, Hamilton decided to call it quits, much to the disappointment of his teammates and fans. During his illustrious career, Keith finished with a career total of 526 tackles, 14 fumble recoveries, and 63 sacks, placing him fourth on the teams’ all-time sack list. Keith is consistently described as a warrior with a relentless work ethic, and is considered one of the toughest ever to don a Big Blue uniform. Keith considers his fondest memory as standing on the field moments before playing in SuperBowl XXXV, knowing he was accomplishing his childhood dream. Hamilton resides in New Jersey and enjoys spending time with his two children. He also owns a very successful real estate company and works as a football analyst on Sirius/XM radio. |
|
