McKinnie's back, claiming a changed approach
by The Associated Press

EDEN PRAIRIE -- Left tackle Bryant McKinnie has come back to Minnesota a few pounds -- and a few friends -- lighter.

His four-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy is over.

McKinnie returned to practice today, eager to re-establish his presence on the Vikings line and make up his absence to his teammates. He says he's taking a different approach to what he does, and to who he's with when he's out and about at night.

McKinnie was charged following a February street brawl outside a Miami nightclub. Though the criminal case is still pending, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suspended McKinnie right before the regular season.

The Vikings can use a one-week roster exemption before making a move to accommodate McKinnie.