The St. Louis Rams have officially wrapped up the training camp portion of the preseason. Today marked the last practice open to fans, and it ended with players lining up to sign autographs. As far as the preseason schedule goes, week three is a big one, the dress rehearsal for the starting units. A few developments from today's practice to share.
Head coach Steve Spagnuolo says the starters will play the entire first half and maybe into the third quarter this week. Speaking of the starters, the coach confirmed that Ben Leber and Brady Poppinga will be the starting outside linebackers this week. Darian Stewart worked alongside Quintin Mikell as the defense's second starting safety this week. Am I the only one that's given up on the referring to the Rams' safeties as strong and free?
On offense, rookie WR Greg Salas spent some time with the starters in practice today. Not a big surprise, he looked solid, shaking off a dropped pass for three more catches, in his NFL debut last week.
Here's an interesting wrinkle from practice today. CB Ron Bartell played nickel with Bradley Fletcher and Al Harris on the outside against three-receiver sets today. I suggested Harris be moved up to the third corner spot over Justin King, and it looks like the Rams are at least toying with that idea. If Harris plays as well as he has in the preseason so far, this could be a solid cornerback grouping.
DT Fred Robbins will not play this week, sitting out with some back trouble that doesn't seem to be serious. Also out are TE Michael Hoomanawanui, CB Mikail Baker and DT Jermelle Cudjo are also out this week.
Danario Alexander was limited in practice today because they practiced indoors on the turf.
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