PRO FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : RAIDERS : Nick Bell to Miss Season Opener

Running back Nick Bell, suffering from a strained hamstring in his left leg, will miss Sunday’s regular-season opener at the Coliseum against the Minnesota Vikings.

Bell was injured in Saturday night’s exhibition finale against the Rams at Anaheim Stadium. After gaining five yards on a second-quarter play, Bell was hurt as he rolled out of bounds.

“I was fighting for extra yardage,” he said. “I planted my right leg and extended my left. That’s when something popped.”

Because tests showed nothing torn, the Raiders are hopeful Bell will return in a couple of weeks.

Cornerback Lionel Washington has a bruised shoulder, defensive lineman Chester McGlockton a bruised toe and guard Todd Peat a sprained foot, but Coach Art Shell said he’s hopeful all will play Sunday. Offensive lineman Gerald Perry, out four games because of a torn triceps, will definitely be back Sunday.

“We’re pulling him out of the hangar,” Shell said. “He said he was ready (Saturday). But I’ve learned, when they say their ready, I give them one more week.”

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Willie Gault might have gained the decisive edge in his battle with fellow veteran receiver James Lofton for a roster spot.

Gault caught three passes for 32 yards Saturday night. Lofton did not play. With the final cutdown to be made today, it is believed that one of the two won’t make it. With his ability to return kicks and the injury to Bell, eighth-round draft choice Greg Robinson has apparently won a roster spot.