Raiders' Barnes out up to 8 weeks

The Associated Press

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NAPA -- Oakland Raiders offensive lineman Khalif Barnes is expected to miss the start of the regular season after an MRI revealed a fractured left ankle.

Barnes, who signed a one-year contract with the Raiders in March, was injured when offensive lineman James Marten blocked defensive end Ryan Boschetti into the back of Barnes' left leg during a team scrimmage Tuesday. He limped off the field and was taken to a hospital for the MRI that revealed a fracture. He is expected to be out six to eight weeks.

"It sucks but it's the nature of our game," Barnes said Wednesday. "It's nobody's fault. It was something freakish that happened. I've been hit like that a few times but the ankle got caught and fractured the bone a little bit."

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Barnes was signed to compete with Mario Henderson for the Raiders' left tackle job in what is considered to be Oakland's most crucial camp battle. Henderson started five games in 2008, including the final three when he did not give up a sack.

Raiders coach Tom Cable had hinted the loser of the battle might be moved to right tackle, but those plans have been put on hold while Barnes recovers.

"It sets us back a little bit," Cable said. "You just move forward in this business."

Barnes's left foot was placed in a cast that extends almost to his knee, forcing the 6-foot-5, 325-pounder to use crutches to get around.

"I was real frustrated yesterday when it initially happened but as time went on I figured I have to stay positive," Barnes said.