It could be gamesmanship. It could be a legitimate concern. Either way, it might not be known until Sept. 12 when quarterback Donovan McNabb takes the field — or doesn’t.
Redskins coach Mike Shanahan said he’s uncertain whether McNabb’s ankle will affect his availability for the season opener vs. Dallas.
“I really don’t know for sure,” Shanahan said. “That’s why it’s day by day. Hopefully it won’t be.”
McNabb did not play in the 16-11 win over the New York Jets on Friday. Nor will he play in the preseason finale vs. Arizona on Thursday.
However, when Shanahan coached in Denver, he rarely played his starters in the final preseason game. He did say McNabb’s status for the opener “could” affect how much time backup quarterback Rex Grossman plays in the opener.
But again, Shanahan rarely played his top two quarterbacks in the final preseason game in Denver. If there wasn’t a clear No. 2, all the backups would play. But when the No. 2 quarterback was clearly defined, he likely wouldn’t play. So Grossman’s status for Thursday likely has little bearing on McNabb’s status for the opener.
Meanwhile, Shanahan said he’s also not sure about running back Clinton Portis, who injured his right ankle vs. the Jets.
“I don’t think it’s too serious,” Shanahan said. “I would anticipate him being able to practice in a couple days. … But I said that about Malcolm Kelly [once], too. So you just don’t know for sure.”
Fullback Mike Sellers also is getting treatment on his knee. Rookie linebacker Perry Riley (sprained right foot) was wearing a walking boot at practice on Sunday.
