NFL: Distractions, a Giant Problem?

For a while, this wasn't even a thought.

The New York Giants, after a shocking win in the Super Bowl, to a great start to a season, they looked like they were set to repeat without much competition out there.

Then, from the inside, cracks started to form.

The news leaked out that Plaxico Burress, the self-appointed attention seeker, was notorious for being late to meetings, among other things. How Tom Coughlin tolerated it, was a bit of a wonder, considering he likes to run a tight ship.

The loss to the Browns? I still think this was the Giants way of saying, hey, it can happen to anyone.

Then this last couple weeks, Plaxico seemed to have gotten bored. And then for the next week, all the tabloids in the free world seem to enjoy a free ticket, making fun of how a guy can shoot himself while on a short leash.

Distraction? Probably. Annoying? Completely.

Now, as the news churns out, the NFL's Players association decided this sort of behavior doesn't warrant being suspended for four games or being fined.

If his actions cost this team games, for his actions, you better believe they warrant some action. I would cut him loose in a minute. Knowing the NFLPA, they'd probably try to find a reason to fight that, too.

The Giants, right now, need to refocus on the NFL. They have three weeks to go before the playoffs start. If I was Tom, it's time for a team meeting, circle the wagons, and get everyone onto the same page.

Tell the team, forget about distractions...Because in the playoffs, one loss, and you're done. You can't explain it any clearer than that.