SAN DIEGO -- The Chargers released starting strong safety Clinton Hart on Wednesday in order to sign defensive tackle Ian Scott.
The Chargers need depth on the defensive line because of the loss of tackle Jamal Williams, who's out for the season with a triceps injury.
Hart joined the Chargers in 2004 and has been a starting safety since 2007.
Scott, a seven-year NFL veteran, joined the Chargers last September and appeared in four games. He was released at the conclusion of training camp.
In their last game, the Chargers fell behind the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-0 before losing 38-28. The Chargers allowed 497 yards of offense.
Coach Norv Turner said the Chargers were carrying an extra safety and believed younger players Steve Gregory and rookie Kevin Ellison "have come along and are ready to play."
Turner wouldn't say whether Gregory, who's listed behind Hart on the depth chart, would start in Monday night's home game against the AFC West-leading Denver Broncos.
"We'll decide that at the end of the week," Turner said. "There's no rush right now. We're playing multiple guys there."
Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press
