Oakland Raiders LB Rolando McClain returns to active roster after going through suspension – NFL News
Oakland Raiders reinstated linebacker Rolando McClain back on active roster after the player completed his two-game suspension. The return was among the series of changes on the roster the Raiders made on Monday, December 10, 2012.
Raiders added cornerback Chimdi Chekwa from the practice squad and released their starting cornerback Ron Bartell. They also cut backup full back Owen Schmitt.
McClain was suspended for two games by the Raiders for improper conduct only detrimental to the team. Last month, McClain had a heated argument with Raiders head coach Dennis Allen which resulted in the player’s suspension.
The linebacker did not participate in the practice session on Monday and is not required to attend them until he had a meeting with Allen.
Allen is currently not with the team as he is attending the funeral of his father. He is likely to return on team practice on Wednesday, December 12.
Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie was available to the media on Monday. However, the GM declined to comment on the roster changes.
The release of Bartell came as a shock as the player has started most of the games this season.
Bartell was signed by Raiders on one-year, $3 million contract during the offseason this year. Many of his teammates were also surprised to see him released. Cornerback Michael Huff said:
"I came in this morning and heard everybody talking about it. I didn't believe it at first, but got in here and didn't see him in here. Definitely, definitely tough, but obviously part of the business."
Bartell played just one game last season with St. Louis Rams due to injury. The player has caught 18 passes for 295 yards and four touchdowns this season.
Cornerback Phillip Adams is likely to replace Bartell as starter. The team has been giving Adams more playing time during last two weeks. Giving his views about replacing Bartell, Adams said:
“I just come in and do what I'm supposed to do. You can't worry about anything else. It's a business. You can't worry about what's going on. I just try to approach the game how it should be approached and go and work hard every day because your teammates
rely on you. That's what I plan to do."
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