Random Ramsdom: The First of July

Welcome to July, Rams faithful. And a happy early Fourth of July, America.

The world of football news continues to turn slowly, but now ... Zzz ... Sorry -- now freshly mowed practice fields and shoulder pads are at least on the horizon. We'll take it.

Three weeks from now, the St. Louis Rams will meet in full for the start of training camp, giving fans their first look at Jeff Fisher's second-year defense and the completely renovated offense. Click here for the whole training camp schedule.

In the meantime, there is plenty more to keep your mind racing with anticipation. Keep scrolling for some Monday links...

Seven rookies poised for immediate impacts – Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com profiles several high-profile first-year players who should instantly make headlines this fall. One of them has already made waves simply due to his presence in St. Louis, while another is a lesser-known division rival.

2013 schedule analysis – An in-depth look at the road ahead, Athlon Sports speculates the Rams’ easy and tough stretches for the 2013 season, as well as a potential playoff push. What are the team’s most crucial contests and which opponents will give them their toughest outings?

NFC West can’t-lose players – Mike Sando pinpoints four players from the division whose respective teams would sorely miss in the event of an injury. Three of these stars are perennial Pro Bowlers; the one for the Rams is not … yet. This one might surprise you.

Can Pead make a leap in year two? – NFL Network has recently begun their countdown of 40 players who should make a progressive in 2013. And it didn’t take long for a Ram to appear on their list. Coming in at No. 40 is second year running back, Isaiah Pead.

Cooking up the offense – Tavon Austin won’t be the only new addition on offense to be used extensively and frequently all over the field. Tight end Jared Cook, who has been viewed more as a slot receiver at times, will also been seen lining up in the backfield.

Seahawks need healthy James Carpenter – Seahawks guard James Carpenter, the 25^th overall pick in the 2011 draft, has played only 16 games in his two year career. For Seattle to maintain stability along the offensive line – and for Russell Wilson’s continued development – Carpenter will need keep away from the injury report.

Go Rams!!!