PRO FOOTBALL REPORT : WEEKDAY UPDATE : CHARGERS : Injuries Force Team to Seek Receivers

Injuries to Nate Lewis and Walter Wilson have prompted the Chargers to seek outside help at the receiver position. Coach Dan Henning said the Chargers were talking to Kitrick Taylor, who has three years of NFL experience.

Taylor, a fifth-round draft choice by the Kansas City Chiefs in 1987 from Washington State, was cut by the New England Patriots after the final exhibition game this season. Henning said there was a 60% chance Taylor will be signed this week.

Lewis suffered a stress fracture in his right hand in Friday’s practice, and Henning said his status was doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Broncos at Denver.

“When a receiver has a fracture in his hand, he’s probably a lot worse off than if it was a linebacker or a defensive lineman,” Henning said.

Wilson, out with a hamstring pull, also was injured in Friday’s practice. Henning said Wilson wasn’t able to run at all Monday and would be a candidate for injured reserve if not for Lewis’ injury.

HBO taped an interview Monday with linebackers Gary Plummer and Billy Ray Smith for a Christmas special to be aired this month.

Plummer and Smith have done extensive work at Bates Street, a section of San Diego where living conditions are poor. The two players have been involved in helping residents of this street set up a community resource center where they can get information on different types of counseling.

The Chargers have had four days off since their victory over the New York Jets Dec. 2. San Diego had a bye Sunday. The Chargers resume their regular practice schedule this week in preparation for Sunday’s game.

Said Henning: “The players came back in good spirits and good condition.”