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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

In briefs: Vikings look to former Cougar

The Vikings could have a surprise starter at safety in the season opener Thursday in New Orleans.

Indications are Husain Abdullah will make his first career start at strong safety. Both Tyrell Johnson and Jamarca Sanford – the two leading candidates for that job during training camp – said this week that they don’t expect to start.

Abdullah, the former Washington State University standout, said he isn’t sure what his exact role will be Thursday.

“We’ve all been rolling in,” he said. “Hopefully I’ll get some playing time, but we’ll see.”

The Vikings have only three healthy cornerbacks. Abdullah has experience as the nickel corner, so he could cover the slot if the Saints use their four wide receiver sets.

McNabb to start

Donovan McNabb said Tuesday his sprained ankle isn’t 100 percent, but it won’t keep him from starting the Washington Redskins’ opener Sunday night against the Dallas Cowboys.

McNabb sprained his left ankle 2 1/2 weeks ago in a preseason game against Baltimore. McNabb said the injury isn’t classified as a high ankle sprain – the more severe type that has more significant ligament damage and a longer recovery time – but he said it’s “very close to it.” He said he’s getting multiple treatments each day.

• Tampa Bay quarterback Josh Freeman practiced for the first time since breaking the thumb on his throwing hand on Aug. 21 and expects to play in the Buccaneers’ season opener against the Cleveland Browns.

Haynesworth on block?

The Washington Redskins and Tennessee Titans are in discussions about a trade of disgruntled defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, people with knowledge of the negotiations told the Associated Press.

Washington signed Haynesworth to a $100 million contract in 2009 as a free agent, and the tackle accepted a $21 million bonus in April. It’s been a nonstop battle of wills between Redskins coach Mike Shanahan and the ex-Tennessee star since then.

The Titans declined to comment.

Roster moves

The Cleveland Browns waived disappointing 2009 second-round draft pick David Veikune, cutting ties with the former Hawaii defensive end that Cleveland tried to convert into a linebacker for its 3-4 system. The team also claimed offensive lineman Steve Vallos off waivers from Seattle and signed defensive back Derrick Roberson. … Veteran fullback Tony Richardson was re-signed by the Jets, two days after he was cut.