When Michael Clayton was released earlier this month, Tom Coughlin called him a "consummate pro" and praised the wide receiver's competitiveness, work ethic and toughness.

Today, Coughlin welcomed him back to the team.

The Giants re-signed Clayton to take the roster spot vacated by Domenik Hixon, who placed on injured reserve after tearing his right anterior cruciate ligament Monday night in a victory over the St. Louis Rams.

"We just thought that it would be better for us to have a little more security at that spot in case we need it," Coughlin said.

Clayton will be available to play Sunday, when the Giants meet the Eagles in Philadelphia.

"Absolutely," Clayton said when asked if he could play Sunday. "I worked every day. It was a small vacation. If we were out for six weeks, it may be different, but I stayed active and anticipated a call within the first four weeks. I stayed ready to go and whatever they need me to do on Sunday, I am down for it and excited about the opportunity."

Clayton, an eight-year veteran, was signed by the Giants on Nov. 24, 2010 and played in the final six games of the season. He had two catches for 19 yards, both in the season finale at Washington on Jan. 2. Clayton played in all four of the Giants' preseason games and caught two passes for 45 yards, including a 37-yarder at Carolina.

Clayton was a first-round draft choice by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2004. He played six years with the Bucs before joining the Giants. Clayton has played in 90 career games with 56 starts. His career totals include 223 receptions for 2,955 yards (a 13.3-yard average) and 10 touchdowns. He also has 18 rushing attempts for 100 yards and 11 kickoff returns for 241 yards (21.9-yard avg.).

Hixon was injured while making a jumping, juggling 22-yard touchdown catch on a pass from Eli Manning with 21 seconds remaining in the first half against the Rams. It is the second year in a row he tore the same ligament in his right knee.

Hixon is the ninth Giants player to go in injured reserve, a list that includes Terrell Thomas, Jonathan Goff, Marvin Austin and Sage Rosenfels.