"As Bernard Berrian leaned against his locker stall Monday afternoon, he spoke with a tone of resignation. Declared inactive by coach Leslie Frazier for the second time in three weeks Sunday, Berrian declared his wishes to remain with the Vikings.

But with a disappointed shrug, he acknowledged reality: Frazier would have the final say.

"Les is his own person," Berrian said. "So whatever he says I've got to be good with."

On Tuesday, Berrian's time ran out. The veteran receiver was waived midway through his fourth season in the Twin Cities. In his place, rookie Stephen Burton was promoted off the practice squad.

It was the latest odd twist for a 1-6 team struggling to find its footing."