St. Louis Rams injury update: Steven Jackson will play this week

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson emphatically told the press today that he will play this week against the Carolina Panthers. Jackson had surgery on his left ring finger following the Rams' loss to Tampa Bay last week. Pain is nothing new for Jackson who has played through nicks, bruises and dings since late last season. 

I suspect Jackson is hungry to get that game back, as the whole team should be. 

As for the rest of the injuries, the notable one today is OT Jason Smith, who was limited after bumping heads with Chris Long. Smith, who missed the remainder of last season with a concussion, was held out as a precaution. No word on whether or not he'll practice or play. He'll be monitored through tomorrow before a determination on his status is made. Carolina has  a solid defense this season, and even though they have just 9 sacks, they do have a tough run defense. 

David Vobora and Mardy Gilyard were full participants. 

The second most worrisome injury is DT Fred Robbins who sat out most of last week's game with a toe injury he sustained in the first quarter. He did not practice again today, and there's no word on his status. If the Rams have to be without Robbins for a game, this is the week since the Panthers sport one of the league's weakest offensive lines in terms of pass protection and run blocking. With the bye week following this game, Robbins could be rested and ready to go against San Francisco in week 10.