Bryant McKinnie Says He Wanted To Leave Minnesota Vikings

McKinnie tells us, his agent put in word with the Vikings moments ago -- before they officially cut him loose -- asking honchos to release McKinnie... so he can sign with another team before next season.

McKinnie was placed on the reserve/non-injury list yesterday, after doctors said his cholesterol was too high and he had to lose weight -- but McKinnie tells us, "I'll definitely be ready for next season. That's not even a question."