[RM: This is an updated version of yesterday's article.]


CHARGERS REPORT
Neal trade, signing of Hart on to-do list

By Kevin Acee
UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

February 22, 2008

INDIANAPOLIS - The Chargers have just five picks in April's draft, not one
until the 27th choice in the first round and most likely none between then
and a compensatory pick at the end of the fourth round. But team executives
will still keep busy at the NFL Scouting Combine over the next week.

In addition to preparing to exercise those draft picks, the Chargers will be
trying to trade fullback Lorenzo Neal and will begin contract talks with
strong safety Clinton Hart.

Neal's agent and Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith confirmed yesterday
that the team will attempt to trade the fullback rather than release him.

"I talked with Coach (Norv) Turner, Lorenzo and (agent) Steve Feldman
regarding his future," Smith said. "We will explore trade opportunities and
see if anything works out for all parties. Lo is under contract for three
more years. As always, we will do what's in the best interest of the
Chargers."

Neal, 37, asked to be released because he knows his role on the team will be
reduced in 2008, if the Chargers decide to keep him. When Smith declined an
immediate release, Neal asked to be traded.

"They don't have to do anything," Feldman said. "Out of respect for Lorenzo,
they agreed to trade him. . . . He loves the Chargers, no question. It's a
big decision on his end. We would like to move on."

Neal, a Pro Bowl starter the past three seasons, believes he can still be a
starter in the NFL, but he knows that won't be with the Chargers. Turner's
offense does not place a high value on the fullback position, and the
Chargers are ready to hand whatever fullback reps there are to Andrew
Pinnock.

It is still possible Neal could be released if the Chargers do not find a
suitor to take him and his $1.5 million contract in 2008.

Also yesterday, sources said the team has notified the agent for Hart that
the club will begin negotiating a long-term deal with the starting strong
safety this week.

"We do have some (contract) activity going on," Smith said, declining to
confirm the pending talks with Hart. "If we have any signings, we'll let you
know immediately."

The move signals the team's belief Hart will be an adequate starter there
for at least the foreseeable future. Hart, who started all last season, is
entering the final year of a contract signed in 2006.

Kevin Acee: (619) 293-1857; kevin.acee@uniontrib.com



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