October 4, 2006

Quarshie to sit out season with ACL injury 

After sustaining a torn anterior cruciate ligament and lateral miniscus during a training-camp drill in August, the Oakland Raiders placed defensive lineman Michael Quarshie on injured reserve for the 2006 season.

Landing on injured reserve means Quarshie, in his second NFL season, will miss the entire year because of his left-knee ailment. The Columbia University product will stay in Oakland to rehabilitate from the injury.

"The injury was a disappointment" said Quarshie, "especially because I think I did well in training camp and our preseason games. But I'm glad I have the opportunity to stay near my teammates and perform my rehab work in the Raiders' facility."

Quarshie said he could not be more pleased with the care Oakland's medical staff has given him. Also, speaking with teammates who've suffered similar injuries has been helpful to him. The rehabilitation plan designed by the Raiders doctors, scheduled to last about five months, will help him regain full strength and mobility in his left knee.

"My teammates and coaches have been very encouraging," Quarshie said. "I'm extremely anxious to undertake and finish this rehab. And my goal is to be on the field when our off-season program starts in the spring."