Chargers May Have Bent Rule

A league spokesman said Thursday the NFL will look into an apparent violation of its bylaws committed Monday by the Chargers.

The bylaws state that no player can practice with a team unless he has signed a contract. Wide receiver Darryl Usher said he practiced with the Chargers Monday. The Chargers say they didn’t sign him until Tuesday.

“We plan to speak with the Chargers,” said Peter Abitante, the AFC director of information.

Abitante said he would not speculate on any penalty the Chargers might receive. But it is not believed that any disciplinary measure would be serious if the team were found guilty. Usher practiced on a Monday, normally just a light workout day. The Chargers did not wear pads.

In other Charger news, quarterback Jim McMahon (ribs) practiced without pain Thursday. Coach Dan Henning said there was little doubt McMahon would start against the Oilers Sunday in San Diego Jack Murphy Stadium.

But tight end Arthur Cox injured his knee. Henning said if Cox was unable to start against Houston, H-back Joe Caravello would start in his place.