PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : AROUND THE NFL : Giants’ Thornton Suffers Mild Stroke

George Thornton, a 300-pound defensive end with a history of high blood pressure, suffered a mild stroke in the New York Giants’ locker room. Thornton, 25, was taken to New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, where he was listed in stable condition.

Russell Warren, the team physician, said Thornton’s blood pressure “shot up” Tuesday night and remained high Wednesday morning.

Warren said Thornton would undergo tests to see if any bleeding or damage occurred in his brain. He is expected to remain hospitalized up to four days but “the prognosis is good,” Warren said.

*

The Houston Oilers, who have lost four of their first five games, announced that Cody Carlson will start at quarterback instead of Warren Moon. It was Moon’s first demotion in 10 seasons with the Oilers.

“My pride’s a little hurt. My ego’s a little hurt. I think a lot of people, both media and fans, finally got what they wanted,” Moon said. “It’s a difficult day for me, something I’ve never been through before. As for what happens now, I’m going to do all I can to help this team.”

Moon, who threw three interceptions and lost a fumble during Monday night’s 35-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills, was benched for the second time in three games in the third quarter.

The demotion came amid rumors that Moon would be traded before Tuesday’s deadline. The Oilers have denied any efforts to deal him.

*

The Miami Dolphins signed former New England Patriot Tommy Hodson as a backup quarterback and put Dan Marino on injured reserve, making him ineligible for the rest of the season. Miami defensive end David Griggs will be sidelined six to eight weeks after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery.