Redskins RB Portis has shoulder surgery

Dec 5, 2006 - 9:34 PM ASHBURN, Virginia (Ticker) - Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis went on injured reserve last month with a broken hand. While there, he had another lingering injury taken care of.

Portis had successful surgery Tuesday on his left shoulder, which he dislocated in the preseason and bothered him throughout the campaign.

A five-time 1,300-yard rusher, Portis suffered a broken right hand November 12 vs. Philadelphia. He had surgery the following day and went on IR two days later, ending his season.

The shoulder injury forced Portis to miss the second game of the season. He had an outpatient arthroscopic procedure performed Tuesday morning at the Reston Hospital Center by Dr. Ray Thal, who repaired a labrum tear and stabilized the joint. Rehabilitation is expected to be six months, which could jeopardize Portis' participation in mini-camp for the 2007 season.

Portis rushed for 523 yards and seven touchdowns in eight games this year. He was replaced by Ladell Betts, who has rushed for over 100 yards in each of Washington's last two games.

A two-time Pro Bowler, Portis rushed for a franchise-record 1,516 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. He never had been below 1,315 rushing yards in his first five seasons.