The St. Louis Rams look like a much healthier bunch for week two of the preseason. Starters will play the better part of the first half, if not the whole first half, against the Tennessee Titans tomorrow night. It marks the preseason debut of middle linebacker James Laurinaitis and cornerback Ron Bartell.
Only starting left guard Jacob Bell's status remains up in the there. He sat out practice yesterday along with today's walkthrough. Listed as questionable for the game, either Hank Fraley or Quinn Ojinnaka will replace him. Fraley filled in yesterday, and Ojinnaka kept his spot warm today. Both players could see some snaps as the Rams try to get a better feel for their backups.
Something else to watch this week, the linebackers. Last week Bryan Kehl started on the weakside, and has continued working in that spot in practice while the new guys get up to speed. According to the official Rams site, free agent addition Ben Leber will play this week. The site is not clear as to whether or not Kehl will start, so keep an eye on that situation. Last week, the defense started subbing in players with the ones throughout the first half.
Steven Jackson will also get a few reps this week. Seeing SJ39 on the field is easily the most reassuring thing for Rams fans, even this time of year.
Also on the field tomorrow night: second-year TE Michael Hoomanawanui and rookie WR Greg Salas.