We’ve heard that it was an “organizational” decision, not just Coughlin, that resulted in Plax being suspended for two weeks. And I completely concur. Burress just had a current contract ripped up and redone all while he wasn’t even practicing during training camp, which included provisions that he would be more involved in team activities (whatever the hell that means). It’s clear to me that John Mara (probably more so than yahoo Bob Tisch) and Jerry Reese wanted to send a message, probably feeling a bit betrayed. And who could blame either of them. No doubt they were PO’d when they got the new about Plax being AWOL. Consider this: had his contract not been renegotiated, would Plax had suffered the same fate? Quite possibly a hefty fine plus a similar penalty that Burress got in 2005 (say, sitting out the first quarter of a game) would have been in order. But now you have the same type of stunts being pulled after a new deal was done by the Giants who clearly demonstrated their commitment to Burress. The Giants wanted to send a message and have it hit home.
Any long range effects to this? I think not. Burress has already conceded he was indeed wrong. And while he did file a protest with the NFLPA which may recoup some of his prorated salary, it won’t effect the length of his suspension. Certainly Burress doesn’t want to miss any games, being the competitor he is. He just needs to be more responsible. Hopefully this sends that message loud and clear.
