New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz has conceded that he faces a huge battle to return to his best form in the NFL following a serious knee injury.
The 28-year-old tore his patella tendon in October 2014 against the Philadelphia Eagles and was ruled out for the rest of the season.
Cruz has made progress in his recovery during the off-season, but he is aware that his skills on the field may be affected by his injury.
When asked if he is determined to prove people wrong, Cruz told USA Today: "I knew I wanted that. I kept thinking, 'This is going to be big for me.'
"Either it's going to make me, or it's going to break me."
Cruz has recorded 264 receptions for 3,963 yards and 24 touchdowns.