“Get cancer and die”: Giants’ Graham Gano reveals disturbing fan abuse

It’s been a grim news day in the sports world today as it was reported earlier that the Dallas Cowboys lost defensive end Marshawn Kneeland to suicide. Soon after that news broke, New York Giants kicker Graham Gano revealed just how far some fans will take their threats to players who don’t perform up to their standards, and it is disturbing.

Graham Gano opens up about death threats from fans

The 38-year-old veteran opened up Thursday about the harassment and death threats he’s received over the past three seasons, saying social media abuse has only gotten worse since the rise of sports betting.

“I hear everyone else’s frustration - media, fans,” Gano said. “Ever since sports betting started, I get people telling me to kill myself every week. I’ll hit a kick that loses them money, I’ll miss a kick and it loses them money. The other day somebody told me to get cancer and die.”

Gano’s comments come as he faces a neck issue that has kept him out of practice this week, and amid heightened concern about players’ mental health following the reported suicide of Marshawn Kneeland.

“We were talking about that this morning,” said Gano, who also serves as an NFL Players Association rep. “If you have anybody that is on your mind to reach out to, do it. You never know. It could be the difference.”

Gano, who has missed 20 games over the past three seasons due to injuries, understands fans’ frustration but urged compassion. “I just want to make the fans happy, help the team win games,” he said. “People are passionate and a lot of it I understand. I want to do my best. I’m proud to be a Giant.”

The veteran kicker has been battling a groin and neck issue since returning to the field, and missed a 45-yard field goal in Sunday’s loss to the 49ers. While his availability for this week remains uncertain, he wants fans to know that players feel the pressure, too.

“I wish there was something I could do to not be hurt,” Gano said. “I care. I want to play. I want to be the best I can.”

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