TRENTON, NJ – Charles Way, a former New York Giants player and coach known for being a strong rusher who earned the nickname “Get Out of My Way”. Way, the husband of newly appointed Lt. Governor Tahesha Way became New Jersey’s third ‘second gentleman’.
Born on December 27, 1972, is an American former professional football player who served as a fullback in the National Football League for the New York Giants over a span of five seasons.
Way was born in Philadelphia to parents Jacqueline and Cleveland Way. After graduating from Northeast High School, he attended the University of Virginia. Drafted in the sixth round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Giants, Way played five games during his rookie year. Used mainly as a fullback to block for Rodney Hampton, he finished the season with 71 total yards, 65 of which were receiving yards, and scored one touchdown in week six.
Way got his first starting opportunity during his second year and played 13 games. He scored two touchdowns and ended the year with 79 rushing yards and 328 receiving yards. His breakout year came in 1997, when an injury to Hampton led to Way becoming the starting halfback. That year, he rushed for 696 yards and gained 1,001 all-purpose yards, scoring five touchdowns.
He achieved his career-high rushing yardage of 114 against the Arizona Cardinals in week twelve. The Giants went on to win the division championship but lost a home playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings after leading 19–3.
Career Challenges and Retirement In 1998, despite a slight dip in his numbers, Way still scored four touchdowns and rushed for 432 yards.
However, his career took a downturn due to a chronic knee injury, leading him to announce his retirement in 2000.
After his retirement, Way worked with the NFL’s player development department and today works as a Real Estate agent in Wayne, NJ.