Reuters

Plaxico Burress hasn’t played football in almost three years.

It’s not a huge shock, then, that he hasn’t been able to stay healthy in training camp. Burress didn’t take any team reps once again in practice on Tuesday, and he wasn’t present for Thursday morning’s session.

Coach Rex Ryan insisted that it wasn’t a big deal and they are just being “precautionary.” Burress’ ankle swelled up on Tuesday, keeping him out. He missed Thursday morning’s work because of an excused absence. He’s expected to return for Thursday’s afternoon practice, but will be limited as usual.

At some point Burress has to show he can survive a few practices at full speed without getting hurt. Ryan said “the plan” is for Burress to play Monday night.

Ryan did admit that Burress will have to get more time on the field sooner than later. Even if this ankle injury is minor, it’s a red flag that Burress hasn’t been able to stay on the field. What’s going to happen when the real hitting starts?

The Jets are betting big on a pair of aging receivers in Burress and Derrick Mason. It’s a high-risk, high-reward approach.