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Jason Pierre-Paul: 'The pain is completely gone'

Jason Pierre-Paul, removed from the PUP list, spoke to reporters Monday before practicing for the first time this season.

The Star-Ledger-USA TODAY Sports

He's still unsure if he'll play in the Week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys and he's not sure how his back will feel in practice, but New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul came off the PUP list Monday. Not only is he coming off the list, but he apparently feels no pain.

"That pain is all gone," said Pierre-Paul. "At times it can get sore but that's a regular thing; it's not uncommon, so I feel good about it."

Pierre-Paul had battled back problems throughout the 2012 season and finally decided to have back surgery on June 4th. General Manager Jerry Reese announced that he would be ready for Week 1, but JPP is still being cautious. He made it clear that the only one that makes decisions on JPP's physical ability to play is JPP.

"I'm not trying to rush," said JPP. "A back is a serious thing. A back surgery is a serious thing and you can't try to come back too early. You'll mess it up even more. I'm just trying to take it day by day."

That however isn't stopping JPP from getting back into practice. He's still approaching practices with precaution, but it's good that he can hit the field and test out the back.

"It's a big step," said JPP. "I've been working hard for the past couple of months since I've gotten my surgery. I think I'm going to do good out there."

Don't look to coaches for any timelines on JPP. He alone is making the decisions, but as long as he's comfortable it's good news.

"It was my decision," said JPP. "I've been working hard. I know you'll see me out there."

You can follow Kelsey O'Donnell on Twitter @KelsODonnell

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