Vikings give Donovan McNabb the boot
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn - A person with knowledge of the situation says the Minnesota Vikings have waived quarterback Donovan McNabb, giving the 13-year veteran the opportunity to sign with another team for the stretch run.
The person spoke Thursday to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the team has not yet announced the decision.
The Vikings declined immediate comment.
NFL.com reporter Jason La Canfora and WCCO radio's Mike Max have also said on Twitter they have confirmed McNabb's release. A league source echoed the Vikings plans to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
Report: Vikings to release McNabb, Bears next?
Vick: "I didn't want to come to Philadelphia"
What's a number worth? Traded NFL stars find out
Donovan McNabb was not at practice for the Minnesota Vikings during the portion that is open to the media on Thursday amid reports that the veteran quarterback has been waived.
McNabb was seen in the locker-room earlier in the day, but did not accompany the team to practice in preparation for Sunday's home game against Denver. A team spokesman declined to comment on the absence.
The Vikings acquired McNabb in the off-season from Washington. The Redskins had acquired him from Philadelphia in 2010 despite head coach Andy Reid's claims that he would be the starting quarterback for the Eagles in the 2010-2011 season.
As a Viking, he struggled at the beginning of the season, and was finally benched after a 1-5 record in favor of rookie Christian Ponder. McNabb threw only two interceptions in six games, but struggled to get the offense running. Ponder currently has a 1-4 record. The team remains in last place in the NFC North.
"I know I have a lot of football left in me," McNabb said at the time of his benching according to ESPN.
Chicago and Houston are in the market for quarterback help after losing their starters to injuries. Dallas is also looking for a back-up for their quarterback. Whoever gets McNabb will have to pick him up for his remaining salary of $1.5 million. However, according to the Houston Chronicle, the Texans don't have enough money available to pick up McNabb.