Short-handed Giants kick off OTA without receiving tandem of Cruz and Nicks

New York Giants' Eli Manning throws a pass during NFL football camp, Wednesday, May 22, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) (The Associated Press)

New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) stretches while walking on a practice field with Ryan Nassib (9) and Curtis Painter (17) during NFL football camp, Wednesday, May 22, 2013, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) (The Associated Press)

Coach Tom Coughlin and the New York Giants knew Victor Cruz wouldn't show up for the organized team activity without a contract, so his absence was expected.

Not so with fellow receiver Hakeem Nicks.

Nicks surprised Coughlin Wednesday when he failed to show up for the team's first voluntary workout. The coach was given no explanation.

Nicks' agent, Peter Schaffer, did not immediately return an email by The Associated Press seeking comment.

Nicks had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in the offseason so it is doubtful he would have been able to participate fully in the workout anyway. Louis Murphy played well with Cruz and Nicks missing.

Also, fullback Henry Hynoski hurt a knee early in the workout and did not return.