Giants, Umenyiora remain at odds
New York Giants' Osi Umenyiora (72) heads for the locker room after pre-game practice before a game against the Dallas Cowboys. (December 6, 2009) Credit: John Dunn
Tom Coughlin said there is nothing new for him to add about Osi Umenyiora and that he has had no indication when the disgruntled defensive end might practice. "I would like to think that this will be resolved shortly, I hope, and he'll be out on the field," the coach said.
Umenyiora, after watching six practices from the sideline and riding the exercise bicycle, skipped Sunday night's practice completely. He remained inside the building getting treatment, the Giants said, presumably on his injured knee.
Umenyiora said the Giants promised him a new contract or a trade to a team that would give him one. He has told the Giants he is not practicing because of a sore knee and has even dangled the threat of surgery. The team has not moved from its stance that Umenyiora has two years remaining on his deal and should honor the contract.
TE Coats added
The Giants were disappointed to see Kevin Boss sign with the Raiders and surprised when Ben Patrick told them he was retiring. It put the team in a bind at tight end, and Sunday they signed free agent Daniel Coats to help.
Coats, 6-3 and 264 pounds, started 11 games for the Bengals in 2009. He was with the Bengals and Broncos last year but did not make a catch in 10 games. He has 30 career receptions for 291 yards but no touchdowns.
Giant steps
Free-agent WR Steve Smith said on Facebook that he plans to meet with the Giants . . . Coughlin said the competition between punters Matt Dodge and Steve Weatherford has "not really heated up yet." . . . WR Domenik Hixon, who had knee surgery last summer, said he'll be ready for the preseason opener Saturday.
