TE Shockey ready to make debut for Saints

Aug 26, 2008 - 6:52 PM NEW ORLEANS (Ticker) -- After a turbulent offseason that culminated with a trade, former New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey is ready to make his debut with the New Orleans Saints.

Shockey, who has been sidelined since breaking his left leg in a Week 15 loss to the Washington Redskins, is expected to play about a quarter in Thursday's preseason finale against the Miami Dolphins.

Shockey was slowed early in a training camp by an undisclosed ailment, which the Times-Picayune reported to be a groin injury suffered in an early practice - something that Saints coach Sean Payton has not confirmed.

"I'm ready to play," Shockey told the newspaper. "It's been a long time, and it's so important to get some reps to get the game speed down and to actually have some contact."

Last month, the Giants traded Shockey to the Saints for a second- and a fifth-round pick in next April's draft.

A four-time Pro Bowler, Shockey, 28, enjoyed six productive seasons in New York, catching 371 passes for 4.228 yards and 27 touchdowns. But he missed the Giants' run to the Super Bowl and became unhappy with his perceived role on the team.

During the Giants' mini-camp in April, Shockey reportedly engaged in a shouting match with general manager Jerry Reese. He also had been critical of New York quarterback Eli Manning, who - coincidence or not - played better in the playoffs without the outspoken tight end.

Shockey said he will "definitely be 100 percent" before the Saints' regular-season opener against Tampa Bay on September 7.

"Hopefully this week I'll be able to get in and get some game action and a whole lot of practice after that," he said.

Shockey has been re-united with Payton, the Giants' offensive coordinator during his rookie season in 2002.