McNabb says dissed by demotion

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Washington quarterback Donovan McNabb said Tuesday he doesn't like the way his benching was handled but wants to remain a Redskin.

McNabb, who was replaced by Rex Grossman for the Skins' game against Dallas Sunday, told ESPN 980 he found the club's handling of the situation "somewhat disrespectful." Coach Mike Shanahan informed him of his demotion Thursday.

"In business, communication is key in anything you do." The Washington Post quoted McNabb as saying. "Normally if you go through a process like that, you'd hear about it on a Monday or a Tuesday. I don't think you pretty much hear about it Thursday going to a Friday practice."

McNabb fended off questions about whether he'd rather be traded or released.

"No, I want to be here. I really do," he said. "... I don't believe in starting something and not finishing."

He said the matter likely will be determined during the off-season.

McNabb also said he thought he had "a pretty decent relationship" with offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, one that "was growing."

"I still feel somewhat that way," he said.

McNabb said he has had no conversations with team owner Daniel Snyder or General Manager Bruce Allen of late.

"I've talked to the janitor a couple times, the cooks, chefs ... . They're doing great," he said.

The Post also reported McNabb learned "through ESPN and everything else" that he had dropped to the No. 3 quarterback spot behind John Beck.

Mike Shanahan has said he told McNabb he's not assured of being the Redskins' quarterback in 2011. McNabb received a contract extension in November.

McNabb, who has been an all-pro six times in his 12-season NFL career, has 3,377 passing yards, 14 touchdowns and 15 interceptions with a 77.1 passer rating.