Baskett signs, practices with Vikings

Staff and wire reports

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Clovis’ Hank Baskett practiced Wednesday with the Minnesota Vikings, one day after being released from the Philadelphia Eagles for the second time in two years.

The 2001 Clovis High graduate signed a one-year deal with Minnesota, which is in desperate need of healthy receivers.

Sidney Rice is out for at least another month after having hip surgery and Percy Harvin has a strained right hip that leaves his status in question for Sunday’s game against Detroit. That left the Vikings with only three healthy receivers before Baskett was brought in.

Baskett originally signed with the Vikings in 2006 as an undrafted free agent, but was traded to Philadelphia before training camp started.

“Very excited. It’s a fresh opportunity once again,” Baskett told a group of reporters after Wednesday’s practice, according to a blog on the team’s website. “Knowing the system, the system is pretty much the same (as the Eagles). So that’s going to help me come in and hopefully contribute as soon as possible once I get a few of the little details ironed out here and there.”

The 28-year-old Baskett attended off-season workouts with the Vikings before his trade to the Eagles, so he is least familiar with Minnesota coach Brad Childress.

“Definitely had great talks with Coach Childress last night so that’s why I’m here,” Baskett said. “The fact that the Vikings have invited me back, that says a lot. I truly appreciate Coach Childress and the team for a second opportunity here.”

Baskett has had two stints with the Eagles, as well as a brief run with the Indianapolis Colts.

Baskett has 76 receptions for 1,080 yards in his five-year career.