Plaxico Burress made the right decision by promising to report to New York Giants camp which starts on July 24th. On June 11th he said he would not hit the field until a new deal was done citing it was a “business decision” and vastly underpaid. The change of heart came because he thinks a new deal will be reached before the season starts in two months. The 6′5 wide receiver says he is close to 100 percent after resting injuries to his ankle, shoulder and knee in the off-season. Plax has three years left on his current deal which pays him $3.25 million this season and $4 million in 2009. He originally signed a 6 year deal worth $25 million. Since 2005 the 31 year-old and Eli Manning have had the most catches to passes ratio in football. He is coming off a 1025 yard and 12 touchdown regular season. In the NFC title game he caught 11 passes for 151 yards against the Packers. In the Superbowl his touchdown reception vs. the Patriots proved to be the difference in one of the biggest upsets in history.

“I am expecting to be full speed in camp, Burress said. I’m not going to make a prediction of what I can put up but if I’m healthy, all I can tell people is to watch out.”

They were 14 receivers who earned more money than Burress last season. He was tied for 4th in TD’s and tied for 6th with 5 catches of 40+ yards. His ability as a deep threat and a prime red zone target makes the ex-Spartan a dynamic offensive weapon. Not only is he five or six inches taller than most defensive backs but he has the speed to go along with his tall frame. He has matured greatly and should be ready to step in as a more vocal leader with Michael Strahan retiring. Even though in his new book he admitted breaking curfew in last seasons training camp but plans to be all business now.

David Givens finished last season with 104 yards, Troy Williamson had 240 and Deion Branch had 661.  Burress proved to be more productive and durable than all three receivers, yet was still paid less than each last season. Plax did not miss a game either while those three WR missed a total of 21. He endured a torn ligament in his right ankle, torn ligament in his left pinky and a sprained MCL leading up to Superbowl XLII.

The injuries in the past should not derail Burress from getting the raise he desires. Number 17 has the potential and physical assets to turn into a top 5 WR. Plax has proved his worth to the G-Men and should be showed the money. With the Eagles and Cowboys upgrading their secondary it is imperative to re-sign Plax for years to come. The Giants have not been shy about spending money either in the off-season. Offensive lineman Chris Snee received a 6 -year, $43.5 million dollar extension. 

“I’m getting good feedback,” Burress told the Post about a new contract. “I think it’s going to get done. I’m not concerned about it. I don’t want to go anywhere, I’m happy in New York, I just want to make sure I’m here for a long time.”