The New York Giants cut embattled WR Plaxico Burress today. Burress was charged with illegal possession of a firearm after he shot himself in the leg during the 2008-09 season and had his court case dismissed until June.

According to an article on ESPN.com, the big issue became the $1 million signing bonus that the Giants failed to pay after the shooting. The NFL Player’s Union filed a grievance which will be resolved within a week. Apparently, Burress’ agent Drew Rosenhaus wanted to negotiate with the Giants on this issue; perhaps meet them halfway on the bonus payment. Burress, however, was adamant that he wanted the full million. A team source told ESPN reporter Sal Paolantonio that Burress’ refusal to compromise on this issue made it clear that he no longer wished to be a part of the organization.

It doesn’t surprise me that the Giants cut Burress. The timing of it is questionable, however. It seemed as if the Giants were going to stick with Burress after they passed on offering TJ Houshmenzedah or Terrell Owens a contract (although, I would never expect a competant team of managers to sign TO, sorry Buffalonians…). There were rumors that Anquan Boldin or Braylon Edwards may be available but it doesn’t seem like either of those are realistic possibilities. And, unless they can move up in the draft, I doubt that one of those impact wide receivers will fall to the G-Men. One thing is certain, though, if they want a chance to compete for a Super Bowl next year, they need to obtain a quality number one receiver.