New York Giants players meet with police officers to start dialogue

NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- In the midst of the NFL Anthem protest over police brutality, a group of New York Giants is meeting with Newark police and young people to talk about the things they share in common.

Members of the police department's Bronze Shields as well as police recruits are getting a chance to share their experiences and talk about efforts to keep the city safe.

The police officers want to encourage the youngsters to make positive choices in life, and the football players are learning about the challenges officers face every day.

The players are also sharing their life story. Giants lineman "Snacks" Harrison related his rise to professional football. He didn't get any scholarships to play college ball, worked at Walmart, was never drafted, and has become a dominating force in the NFL all because he was dedicated to working hard.

The players say talking to officers face-to-face gives them more perspective on the job that officers do and they realize that most cops are working hard to do their jobs in a professional manner.

The Giants players also handed out checks for $10,000 to two Newark High School football teams so they can buy brand new equipment.