Morton could play Sunday

By Doug Tucker

AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Wide receiver Johnnie Morton, who practiced Monday for the first time since July, could be ready for Kansas City's season opener at Denver.

It would be a huge lift for the Chiefs' injury-depleted receiver corps if Morton, who has been hobbled by a sore Achilles tendon, could contribute.

Marc Boerigter, who had his most impressive training camp ever, went on injured reserve last week after knee surgery.

In addition, rookie tight end Kris Wilson is expected to be out at least half the season with a broken leg and Eddie Kennison, the other starting wide receiver, missed two preseason games with a wrist injury.

''It's not going to get any better unless I take a long layoff,'' said Morton, who had 50 catches last year for 740 yards and four touchdowns.

''The pain -- I got to where I could play well and deal with the pain.''

Vermeil said Morton made ''one spectacular catch'' in practice.

''That shows he hasn't lost his hand-eye coordination. He can catch the ball,'' Vermeil said. ''I think we've got to gradually break him in. He did some good things.''

Gambling that Morton would be ready, the Chiefs did not keep an extra wide receiver when they made their final roster cuts Sunday.