Givins Given Walking Papers By Jacksonville

Ernest Givins, the leading receiver in Houston Oilers history, was released Tuesday by the Jaguars, the team he signed with as a free agent on June 2. Also cut was linebacker James Williams.

Givins, who was in his 10th season, fell out of favor with Jaguars coach Tom Coughlin early in the season after saying it was “like a slap in the face” when he was forced to share playing time with several other receivers.

Givins’ agent, Jim Ellis of Louisville, Ky., said it will be difficult for the receiver to catch on with another team so late in the season.

Haley pulls about face

Charles Haley, the Dallas Cowboys’ star defensive end, unretired again Tuesday, then went to California for back surgery.

Haley had told the Dallas Morning News on Monday he was retiring. It was the fourth time in his career Haley had announced his retirement.

Grossman back on Chargers

With two defensive ends, Chris Mims and Ray Lee Johnson, hobbling on sprained ankles, the San Diego Chargers brought back Burt Grossman, a wisecracking former first-round draft choice who hasn’t played all season.

General manager Bobby Beathard said Grossman looks to be in good shape. He was the final player released by the San Francisco 49ers during the exhibition season.

Bears’ Green out for season

Chicago Bears running back Robert Green broke his left leg during the 27-7 loss to the Detroit Lions and will be out the rest of the season.

Coach Dave Wannstedt said Lewis Tillman, the team’s rushing leader last season will replace Green.