Some former Giants and Jets players were on hand Saturday at St. Joseph's University Medical Center to help promote the COVID-19 vaccine.

Former Giants players David Tyree and Roman Oben plus former Jets quarterback Ray Lucas and Santa Claus were at the medical center where the Pfizer vaccine was offered to those aged 5 and up.

"Every opportunity that we can touch the community is really important," said Tyree. "As a Montclair kid, having the opportunity to live this career here in New Jersey - these moments are precious."

The event is part of an outreach and education initiative by NFL Alumni Health in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the hospital.

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So far, around seven out of 10 New Jersey residents are fully vaccinated and nearly 1.9 million have received a booster shot — roughly 40% of those who are eligible.

City leaders say 97% of Paterson residents ages 18 and over are fully vaccinated.

The NFL Alumni Health initiative is rolling out nationally in 20 NFL Alumni chapter cities and regions featuring more than 40 current and retired NFL players encouraging vaccinations.