Report: Giants' Pierre-Paul won't sign franchise tag until he's able to pass physical

A Fourth of July fireworks accident effectively ended the chances of Jason Pierre-Paul signing a long-term deal with the New York Giants this offseason, but the defensive end doesn't seem eager to sign the franchise tag offer extended to him either.

Now facing a recovery process after reportedly having his right index finger amputated and suffering multiple thumb fractures, Pierre-Paul won't sign the one-year tender until he's healthy enough to pass his physical, according to Ed Werder of ESPN.

In further delaying the move, the 26-year-old prevents the Giants from being able to place him on the non-football injury list while he recovers. Players that begin the season on the NFI list aren't eligible to return until after Week 6, nor are they entitled to their full salaries while away from the field.

While a decision to remain without a contract would often come with considerable risk, the odds of the Giants rescinding the franchise tag designation from their star pass-rusher are quite slim regardless.

Given the relatively favorable prognosis on his injuries, in which he's expected to have an opportunity to return to the field within the next two months, the most likely scenario is that Pierre-Paul eventually signs and plays out the season before having his contract readdressed early next year.

Focused on getting healthy prior to signing the one-year deal, however, Pierre-Paul doesn't appear likely to rejoin the team until well into training camp, if not after.