Hakeem Nicks is expected to be a big producer for the New York Giants in 2013. When he was absent from organized team activities, many were left worried what the receiving game would look like, especially with Victor Cruz's future so uncertain. Nicks emerged for a mandatory minicamp saying nothing other than he was completely healthy and ready to prepare for the season. After missing key practices with Eli Manning, the two are now putting in time before training camp begins.
"We've hooked up twice already this week. We're gonna do it two, three more times before camp starts," Nicks told the New York Daily News.
Planned practices before training camp is not exactly what Manning had in mind, but the two are committed to getting on the same page before camp begins. Manning missed time with both of his big-play receivers, so this is the best he can do.
Nicks would not discuss the reason for his highly scrutinized absence from OTAs. He would only simply say, "I was there when it counted. I'm going to be at training camp." The Giants were not exactly thrilled by with both receivers being no-shows. Nicks had to talk with head coach Tom Coughlin to clear up the mess.
Nicks says he is feeling no ill effects from an offseason knee surgery he underwent. The often injured receiver has missed at least one game in each of his four seasons in the NFL. His agent promised that Nicks' absence from OTAs was not due to his contract expiring next season, but more because he was looking to prevent any injuries while playing when he did not have to. Now, Nicks says he is feeling great and running every route in the Giants' playbook. Music to New York fans' ears.
If Nicks can enter into the 2013 season feeling free and healthy, he could be setting himself for a big year. He is entering the final year of his rookie deal and if he puts together a strong season, he is set to make big money next offseason. The question will be whether that money is with the New York Giants or somewhere else in free agency.
