EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Quarterback Kelly Holcomb was released today by the Minnesota Vikings, clearing room on the roster for another veteran to push starter Tarvaris Jackson.

Holcomb was 0-3 as a starter last season while Jackson was hurt. In his 11th year in the NFL, Holcomb completed only 50.6 percent of his passes (42-for-83) for 515 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.

After spot duty for Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo, Holcomb was traded to Philadelphia last March and then dealt to Minnesota during the last week of training camp when the Vikings were concerned about their depth at the position.

Jackson showed clear improvement down the stretch, but his erratic performances were a big reason why Minnesota missed the playoffs at 8-8. Coach Brad Childress has maintained that Jackson is still the starter, but has also left open the possibility of competition for the job.

Holcomb's departure means the Vikings will surely pursue another option through free agency or a trade, when the market opens early Friday.