Charger Notebook : Grossman, Tolliver Missing, Maybe Closer

Defensive lineman Burt Grossman and quarterback Billy Joe Tolliver, two of the Chargers’ top three draft picks, remained unsigned and out of camp Tuesday.

Steve Ortmayer, director of football operations, said he hopes to sign both by the end of the week.

“You’ve got to hope we’re getting closer; we’ve been working hard on it,” Ortmayer said. “I feel we’re getting closer.”

But Ortmayer said his patience regarding Tolliver is wearing thin.

“I do not understand how this quarterback can be out of camp,” Ortmayer said. “To say we made a fair offer is mild.”

Tolliver’s agent, Vic Vines, and Ortmayer talked Tuesday evening and are expected to talk again this morning.

“We’re fighting through some things,” Vines said. “I don’t see it as being a great deal longer. Conceptually, we’re on the same page, but he’s not going to show up (today).”

If they don’t sign Tolliver within the next few days, the Chargers might bring another quarterback into camp.

“Absolutely,” Ortmayer said. “We’ve talked about it, but I don’t have any specifics. We’ve talked about what we’ll do in a day or two (if Tolliver still isn’t signed).”

Tolliver and Grossman are the only two players missing. Ortmayer said he planned to call each Tuesday night but said he would not impose a signing deadline.

“The sooner (they sign) the better,” he said.

Charger Coach Dan Henning missed Tuesday afternoon’s practice after his 16-year-old son, Michael, was involved in a four-wheel drive Jeep accident east of Julian.

Michael Henning, who was driving, and a 15-year-old female passenger were listed in fair condition Tuesday night at Sharp Memorial Hospital. Michael Henning was apparently pinned underneath the Jeep when it overturned. He was flown to the hospital by Astrea, and his female companion was taken by Lifeflight.

Ted Tollner, assistant head coach, conducted practice.

Charger owner Alex Spanos attended practice and offered an optimistic outlook for the 1989 season.

“I think it’s going to go real great,” he said. “Everybody’s enthused. There are new faces, new coaches and most of the rookies are signed. And we’re hoping to have the others in camp in the next couple of days.

“We’re looking for a better year than last year--far better.”

Spanos said the absence of Tolliver and Grossman doesn’t bother him.

“Nah,” he said. “Not really. We have that every year. It will get done.”

Charger Notes

As is the custom on Tuesdays during training camp, the Chargers lifted weights in place of a morning practice. On most other days, they practice at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.