New York Giants officially waive David Wilson - a retrospective

Wednesday evening one career started, but another officially came to a premature end. The New York Giants announced the signing of star CFL lineman Brett Jones, and waived running back David Wilson.

Wilson was the Giants' first draft choice after winning the Superbowl in 2012, and he quickly excited the fan base with his irrepressible personality and electrifying talent. Though he had a rocky start to his professional career, Wilson quickly proved to be a dynamic weapon, both on offense and on special teams.

He ultimately finished the 2012 season second by a single yard among all rookies in total yardage, and fifth in the entire league yards per touch. Most of his production was earned on special teams, where he quickly garnered the reputation as one of the league's most dangerous return men, arguably the most dangerous kick-off returner in the NFL. With injuries to Ahmad Bradshaw and Andre Brown, Wilson saw his role on the offense increase and he rewarded the Giants with some excellent runs.

Wilson was voted an All-Pro (second team) by the associated press, and his arrow was most definitely pointing up.

Then it all came crashing down. In a week 5 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Wilson sustained a neck injury that ultimately ended his promising career.

The move by the Giants does clear up $1.3 million in cap space, but I somehow suspect that they would gladly trade that for Wilson's health.