The Minnesota Vikings waived the 13-year veteran quarterback on Thursday in a parting coach Leslie Frazier described as mutual, and if McNabb clears waivers he could sign with another team for the stretch run.
Frazier pushed for the Vikings to trade a sixth-round draft pick this summer to the Washington Redskins in exchange for McNabb. He wanted stability he thought McNabb would bring to the offense after the NFL lockout kept rookie Christian Ponder from working with coaches until training camp.
“This was the best decision for both parties,” Frazier said. “He was a great player and has been a great player for our league for a long, long time. Have a lot of affection and love for Donovan.”
McNabb went 1-5 as a starter, threw for four touchdowns and completed just five passes of 25-plus yards. Frazier said he didn’t regret the trade given the situation the Vikings were in this summer, and said he thinks McNabb can still play in the NFL but stopped short of saying he can be an effective starter.
McNabb enjoyed an 11-year run as the starter in Philadelphia, taking the Eagles to the Super Bowl after the 2004 season, before he was traded to the Redskins last year.
MCCLAIN ARRESTED
Oakland linebacker Rolando McClain was arrested in Decatur, Ala., on misdemeanor assault, firearms and other charges after police said he fired a gun during a fight in his Alabama hometown.
According to a statement released by the Decatur Police Department, McClain, 22, held a gun beside a man’s head during an altercation.
Though McClain fired a shot, the statement said, no one was injured, and McClain was released on $2,000 bond.
Raiders coach Hue Jackson said McClain was in Alabama for the funeral of his grandfather.
MANNING IMPROVES
Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning’s injured neck is healthy enough for more work. He’s just not ready to take hits.
“I am encouraged with what Doc had to say,” Manning said about Dr. Robert Watkins’ monthly update.
The 35-year-old hasn’t practiced since having a spinal fusion Sept. 8.
APPEAL HEARD
Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has had his appeal heard of a two-game suspension for stomping on an opponent.
Art Shell, jointly appointed by the league and the players’ association to hear such cases, has conducted a conference call but set no timetable for making a decision.
EXTRA POINTS
Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is still not cleared to practice, but he said he hopes to play against Denver this weekend. … Arizona quarterback Kevin Kolb was able to practice and expects to play Sunday against Dallas, but his injured right foot remains sore. … St. Louis quarterback Sam Bradford and defensive end Chris Long did not practice Thursday because of ankle injuries.
