Giants Strahan playing coy about retirement again

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STRAHAN QUESTION HOVERS OVER GIANTS

By PAUL SCHWARTZ

April 15, 2008 -- The GiantsNew York Giants would sure like to know whether Michael StrahanMichael Strahan is in or out prior to next week's NFL Draft, but it sure looks as if they once again head into a draft not knowing the plans of the 36-year old defensive end.

In what has become an annual spring ritual, Strahan last week had a sit-down with the Giant general manager. This time, just like a year ago, Strahan met with GM Jerry Reese, and no doubt the two exchanged pleasant memories of the stunning Super Bowl run.

According to reports, Strahan told Reese he has not yet decided whether to retire or return for a 16th season.

Given that the draft is April 26-27, the Giants would love to know Strahan's plans. If he's calling it a career, they might be inclined to move Mathias KiwanukaMathias Kiwanuka back to his natural defensive-end position and then select a linebacker with the 31st pick.

Strahan, though, doesn't rush these decisions. Last season, he kept the Giants guessing all the way through training camp before finally returning to work.

A year ago, money was a big issue with Strahan, even though he said he truly did not know whether his heart was in the game. There's no doubt that's true, just as there's no doubt he was stung when Reese told him there would be no deviation from the $4 million he was scheduled to earn in 2007. Strahan is under contract for one more year at $4 million but the feeling is - co-owner John Mara has said as much - the Giants are willing to up the ante for Strahan, who came back strong from a sprained foot and proved to be durable during the Giants incredible road to the Super Bowl.