Dottino: Giants Ready To Get Started

By Paul Dottino
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EAST RUTHERFORD – Finally, at least the Giants will be able to get on the field Saturday in their first practice, albeit one without pads, of training camp.

Why do we say 'finally'? Well because we've been getting hit with off-the-field news from practically every angle.

Here's the skinny from today's work day:

* Plaxico Burress meets with Tom Coughlin to have a man-to-man talk Friday evening. If both men are agreeable with what they see, Burress then will meet with Jerry Reese and John Mara. Reese said Burress will not have to work out for the team; however, it's likely he'll have to take a physical and – if the green light continues to flash – Reese will try to negotiate a contract. Either way, expect a quick resolution to this saga.

* Osi Umenyiora, as expected, was a holdout during the first day of camp and is subject to a $30,000-a-day fine. Neither Reese nor Coughlin have spoken to the defensive end but said they hope he returns.

*Brandon Jacobs renegotiated his contract, freeing up some room for the potential re-signing of backfield mate Ahmad Bradshaw.

* Reese has offers out to free agents Bradshaw, Kevin Boss and Steve Smith.

* First-rounder Prince Amukamura is the only unsigned draft pick, but Reese expects him to be here shortly.

*Former Jets punter Steve Weatherford has signed to compete with Matt Dodge.

*Reese insists his roster is close to being complete and – for the second straight season – says he's got enough young depth at linebacker to fortify the position.

*Also as expected, Rocky Bernard was released.