Eli Apple defends mother's criticism of Giants' handling of Josh Brown

LONDON — New York Giants rookie Eli Apple defended his mother’s right to criticize the organization’s handling of the Josh Brown domestic violence controversy but steered clear of diving into the saga himself.

Annie Apple continued her criticism of Giants owner John Mara in a letter published on Sunday by SI.com. That followed a series of tweets she had published, speaking out about the way Mara handled the case of Brown in the wake of documents that detailed the kicker’s abuse of his ex-wife, Molly.

“That topic is very important to her, so I can understand where she is coming from,” Eli Apple told USA TODAY Sports following his team’s 17-10 victory over the Los Angeles Rams at Twickenham Stadium.

Eli Apple's mom criticizes Giants owner John Mara for abuse remarks in letter

“But at the same time, I know in my position. I have just got to understand that I’ve got to do my part, play football and do what I do. ... She has a voice, and she is going to use it no matter what. I love her for that, she is a unique woman, and she is going to speak up no matter what. and I can’t really control it.”

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

Annie Apple, a former domestic violence victim, described Mara’s comments about Brown — they claimed the Giants were seeking further information before making a decision on the player’s future — as “insensitive, dismissive and callous.”

She continued: “Mr. Mara’s comments were unapologetically wrong and hit at a raw place.”

Eli Apple said that his mother had not informed him she was preparing to have a public letter published, but that he suspected the issue may gather steam once he saw her initial social media messages.

Giants owner John Mara: Josh Brown 'certainly' told us he abused wife

“I guess when I saw a couple of tweets, I was like ‘OK ...,' " he said. “And then I saw a couple more, and I was like, ‘She might go and (say something),’ and I was like 'Damn.’

“But she is her own person. She went through something that is tough for her and me and the rest of the family. All I can do is be supportive of her. We are good on that front.”

Apple claimed he had spoken to several members of the Giants organization to discuss his mother’s remarks, and that team personnel were understanding.

“We are good on that front,” he added.