Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress won't practice with the team until his injured right ankle is healthy, according to The Associated Press.
"Of course I definitely want to be out there," Burress said Sunday after watching the team's morning workout. "Like I said, Plaxico Burress has to take care of Plaxico Burress."
He caught 70 passes for 1,025 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2007.
"I probably could get out there, but I want be to my normal self, like I know I can and that's what I want to accomplish," Burress said. "Why wouldn't everybody want that from me? I think everyone would be a lot happier when I am 100 percent. I know my quarterback would be. I don't see why there is a problem."
Burress also admitted that he has given up hope regarding a new deal, even though New York general manager Jerry Reese insists that a new contract could be signed by the start of the season.
Burress Won't Return Until Ankle Is Healthy