THE SIDELINES : Raiders Release Lofton, 9 Others

Wide receiver James Lofton, the seventh leading pass catcher in NFL history, was released today by the Raiders.

Lofton, 33, was one of 10 players cut by the Raiders, who must trim seven more players to meet Tuesday’s roster limit of 60.

Lofton, who went to seven Pro Bowls while with Green Bay, was acquired by the Raiders before the 1987 season. He caught 41 passes for 880 yards and five touchdowns in 1987. In 1988, his production fell to 28 catches for 549 yards. For the first time in 11 NFL seasons, he did not score a touchdown.

Also released today by the Raiders was 34-year-old tight end Jimmie Giles, a veteran of 12 seasons who joined the Raiders as a free agent.

Linebacker Linden King, 34, was another casualty. He was the starting left outside linebacker the last two seasons but was demoted to reserve status this summer.

Also cut by the Raiders were linebacker Ron Brown, defensive back David Greenwood, defensive lineman Clyde Glover, offensive lineman Larry Lee, running back Anthony Mosley, wide receiver Stephen Starring and punter Mike Gillette.