[Topeka Capital-Journal] Starting flanker Eddie Kennison was excused from Friday’s preseason opener with Minnesota to be with his wife during a medical emergency.

Third-year receiver Chris Horn started in his place with second-year man Samie Parker playing the split end position.

Among the veteran players not dressing for Friday’s game were Pro Bowl guard Will Shields; linebackers Kendrell Bell, Mike Maslowski, Shawn Barber and Quinton Caver; new receiver Freddie Mitchell; tight end Jason Dunn; defensive end Carlos Hall and rookie draftee Khari Long of Baylor.