Kicking plans unclear

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Kicking for the Atlanta Falcons this week will be Morten Andersen, a 24-year NFL veteran who has 536 career field goals.

Kicking for the Washington Redskins on Sunday will be Nick Novak (13 career field goals), newcomer Shaun Suisham (four career field goals) or both.

The latest kicker issue has come about because Novak has missed five of his 10 attempts since replacing John Hall last month. Suisham was signed to the practice squad Tuesday.

Coach Joe Gibbs said yesterday at Redskin Park there are three possible scenarios for the game: Novak will remain the kicker; Suisham will be signed to the active roster and assume the duties; or both kickers will play -- Novak for field goals and extra points and Suisham for kickoffs.

Gibbs ruled out bringing in another kicker before the Atlanta game, namely veteran Mike Vanderjagt, who was released by Dallas on Monday.

"We'll take a good look at everything and then size up our situation," Gibbs said. "[Having two kickers playing] wouldn't be out of the realm of possibilities, but I haven't done it before. We'll do what makes the most sense for us and make a decision at the end of the week."

The Redskins' recent history with kickers has been one of nonstop turnover. Since Gibbs returned to the team in 2004, John Hall, Ola Kimrin, Jeff Chandler and Novak -- not to mention three punters -- have kicked.

Suisham appeared in games for Dallas and San Francisco earlier this season.

"It's like a regular practice week for me," he said. "I'll kick the next two days and possibly Friday, and then it's in the coach's hands. I've bounced around the last two years, so it's almost normal for me. It's not awkward at all."

Novak has missed kicks in four of his six games this season.