NFL: Former New York Giant Plaxico Burress released from prison

Former New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress was released from prison today after spending the last 20 months behind bars for criminal possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment.

Burress turned himself into New York City police back in 2008 after he accidentally shot himself in the right thigh with his pistol upon entering a New York City nightclub. The 33-year-old is expected to make a return to the NFL after the lockout, however at this point there are no pending offers from any teams. “I just want to thank God for bringing me through one of the most trying times in my life,” he told CBS news among other reporters outside the prison. “It's a beautiful day. It's a beautiful day to be reunited with my family. I want to go home and spend some quality time with them.” NFL pundits seem to think that the most likely destination for Burress could be the Philadelphia Eagles, where he play alongside Michael Vick and one of the top wide receivers from the 2010-2011 season in DeSean Jackson (if he is re-signed). After being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers 8th overall in 2000, Burress spent five seasons in the Steel City, however after the 2005 season Burress signed a six-year $25 million deal with the New York Giants where he spent the last four seasons of his career before going to prison in 2009. He’s perhaps most known for catching the game-winning touchdown pass from Eli Manning in Superbowl XLII when the Giants defeated the then 18-0 (with playoffs) New England Patriots. “He's going to be a top free-agent,” Burress’ agent Drew Rosenhaus told CBS news. “There are going to be multiple teams interested in signing him. I expect him to get a good contract. I expect him to absolutely be playing.”