Howard Cross

Howard Edward Cross Jr. was born on August 8, 1967, in Huntsville, Alabama. He played football at New Hope High School and then at the University of Alabama, where he was also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Drafted by the New York Giants in the sixth round of the 1989 NFL Draft, Cross embarked on a professional career that spanned 13 seasons, all with the Giants. Over these years, he built a reputation primarily for his blocking skills, an essential component of the team’s offense.

Throughout his NFL career, Cross played in 207 games for the New York Giants, a significant achievement that places him among the franchise’s most enduring players. He was a member of two Super Bowl teams, winning Super Bowl XXV in 1991 where the Giants defeated the Buffalo Bills. He also appeared in Super Bowl XXXV in 2001. Beyond his blocking contributions, Cross recorded 201 receptions for 2,194 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns during his time in the NFL, showcasing his versatility as a tight end.

After retiring from professional football in 2001, Cross transitioned into broadcasting. He has co-hosted the YES Network’s “This Week in Football” and served as a color commentator for Ivy League football telecasts. He is also a sideline reporter for the New York Giants Radio Network and an analyst on “Giants First and 10.” In addition to his broadcasting roles, Cross has pursued a career in commercial real estate as a broker in NY/NJ for Cushman & Wakefield, where he works with Global Chairman Bruce Mosler. He has a son, Howard Cross III, who plays football for Notre Dame, and a daughter, Bella Cross, who attends The University of Alabama Honors College.