Shockey was quick to point out his own faults, saying he can get faster, catch the ball better, run more precise routes, block better and be more patient.

“That is probably my biggest downfall as far as the game,” Shockey said of his patience. “I want to get started off quick and get the fans into it quick.”

Competitive almost to excess and somewhat bizarre at times — he showed up for lunch on Saturday wearing a bathrobe — Shockey sympathized with receiver Plaxico Burress for being visibly angry after not making a catch in the Giants’ 23-0 playoff loss to Carolina.

“Everybody makes a big deal about him, why he acts the way he acts,” Shockey said. “He’s a competitor. Would you rather him walk off or leave something or come back with an AK-47? People act like that.”

One thing that Shockey won’t change is the way he plays. He goes all out all the time and it has left him with nagging injuries all season. His left hand had a red welt Sunday, and the Giants haven’t had any hitting drills yet.

It’s the same off the field, where he says that controversy makes him play better.

“Everyone knows I drink here and everyone knows I go out and party but I take good care of my body,” said Shockey, adding he doesn’t drink to excess. “I take vitamins every day. I get acupuncture, massages, tons of things to keep body healthy.

“If I go out and drink one night, I guarantee the next day I am getting heavily replenished with water and massages,” he added. “I respect my body tremendously.”

Shockey, who signed a five-year, $31 million contract extension last year, would like to play 10 years. The league’s highest-paid tight end also wants to leave without limping. He will quit when he sees his talents diminishing and he won’t stay around just to set a record.

“I don’t think you can tell how long a person can play,” he said. “Maybe I’ll get finer with age as wine.”

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