Co-owners Mara, Tisch discuss Plax, Osi

Giants co-owners John Mara and Steve Tisch spoke Tuesday about two of the biggest story lines of their preseason: Osi Umenyiora and Plaxico Burress.

Mara and Tisch, who attended the naming rights ceremony for MetLife Stadium, answered questions about their team's rocky beginning to the season.

The Giants were the first to formally pursue Burress, but the free-agent receiver signed with the Jets and caught a touchdown pass Sunday.

"I hope he does well this season," Mara said. "Everything he's been through, he deserves it. His family deserves it. I'd like to have him on this team, but again, we made a value judgment on that and we wish him well."

"He's made a very good deal," Tisch said. "He's been guaranteed real money, and I would like to see him have a great season. I truly would like to see him play great football for the Jets, and it looks like he's off to a good start."

Umenyiora spent the first two weeks of training camp in a virtual holdout by not participating in any practices. Then he lasted only three workouts before his knee swelled and he opted for arthroscopic surgery. Mara said he did not think the surgery was a negotiating ploy.

"He wants to play and he wants to play as close to 100 percent as he can," Mara said. "I think it was the right decision. I don't think it had anything to do with the contract."

Kennedy signs. Even before Marvin Austin was lost for the season, the Giants were looking to add depth in the middle of their defensive line. Last week they agreed in principle with Jimmy Kennedy, and Tuesday the former Viking signed with the team. "Last year, according to what he told us, he was really injured and didn't play that well and he feels good and healthy now," Tom Coughlin said. "He is a veteran who we think can help us."

With Neil Best