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FRESH START

July 29, 2008

Shane Olivea earned millions of dollars while starting 57 games at right tackle for the San Diego Chargers. He was regarded as one of the NFL’s most promising young offensive linemen.

But in the Giants’ training camp at the University at Albany, he is working with the backups on the second team line and the longshots on the third team – and is as content as any player here.

“You know what, I’m just happy to be putting on the pads and a uniform again,” Olivea said. “Whether it’s the fourth unit, first unit, sixth unit, all that stuff will take care of itself.”

Olivea’s comfort level stems from an understanding that football is not the most important part of his life. Not after he became addicted to painkillers. Not after those closest to him all but forced him to undergo treatment. Not after a 90-day stay at the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage, Calif. And not after a four-game NFL suspension for violation of the league’s Substance Abuse Policy was overturned.

Olivea left the treatment center on Saturday, July 20. The next day, he flew to New York and on Monday he underwent a physical and a tryout for the Giants, who then signed him to a one-year contract.

“It’s a second chance in life and in football,” Olivea said. “I’m just happy to have the opportunity, because a lot of guys aren’t given that opportunity. So I feel very blessed and fortunate to have that opportunity.” - READ MORE

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