The Associated Press

MANKATO, Minn.

Wednesday, August 15, 2001

MANKATO, Minn. – The Cleveland Browns reduced their stable of offensive linemen Tuesday by trading Everett Lindsay back to Minnesota, adding needed depth to the Vikings’ line.

Lindsay, 30, was traded for a future draft pick. He started all 16 games at right guard for the Browns last year after being signed as a free agent from Baltimore. Lindsay began his career playing six seasons with the Vikings, leaving after the 1998 season. He was drafted in the fifth round in 1993 out of Mississippi.

Minnesota needed more bodies on the line, particularly in the wake of the Aug. 1 death of lineman Korey Stringer from heatstroke. The Vikings will count on Lindsay to serve as a backup at all five positions.

Corbin Lacina was expected to be the team’s super sub, but Stringer’s death forced Chris Liwienski into a starting role at right tackle. Lacina will take Liwienski’s place at left guard.

”We were looking for backups, not a starter,” said offensive line coach Mike Tice. ”We were looking for someone who could take some snaps for Corbin.”

Tice said that he, coach Dennis Green and other front-office personnel began discussing ways to improve the team’s depth on the line a few days after Stringer’s death.

”Everett has always been a terrific player for us,” Green said in a statement. ”His addition will give us some added experience to go with our young offensive line.”

Tre Johnson, a 1999 Pro Bowler who was signed by the Browns this season as a free agent, is expected replace Lindsay in Cleveland.

Lindsay did not play in the Browns’ first preseason game Saturday against the Packers due to an ankle injury. Tice said Lindsay will not play in the Vikings’ exhibition game Thursday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.