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Three practices are in the books; 41 days until the Rams' season opener.
July is nearly over and actual football just around the corner.
Several teams have already suffered unfortunate, perhaps season-changing losses, however, the Rams remain largely unscathed by injuries. They will need that luck to continue to avoid being forced to tap into their already questionable depth at many positions.
It's going to take more time before a few key position battles begin to take shape, particularly at running back and receiver. Expect the coaching staff to give each player every opportunity to prove themselves. With the team's first preseason contest merely ten short days away, it's time to really begin speculating.
Find out what's new in Rams Park and the latest in Rams news with today's links...
Chris the Longest tenured Ram - Defensive end Chris Long is entering only his sixth season in the NFL, but he is now the most tenured player in St. Louis. Quickly becoming a household name throughout the league, Long has embraced the role of leader for his young team, but insists he is not the face of the franchise. Rather than bask in his own glory, he seeks praise for the defense as a whole.
Veterans have fun and/or get owned on "Smack Cam" - To lighten the mood and keep things (even more) interesting as players go through the typical routine of practices and meetings, some notable players have joined a war of public pranks. To be specific, a whipped cream pie in the face. Click here for video documentation of Chris Long smacking Cortland Finnegan.
Austin could own special teams duties - It will surprise absolutely no one to see Tavon Austin returning kicks often as a rookie - that was a huge aspect of his impressive pre-draft résumé - but his total responsibilities on special teams remains uncertain. Coordinator John Fassel could give the rookie a full-time job.
The McDonald safety legacy - If third-round pick T.J. McDonald turns out to be anything like his father, Tim McDonald, then the St. Louis Rams will have found a quality safety for a very long time. The son of a former All-Pro and Super Bowl champion, T.J. figures to be thrown into the starting lineup immediately.
Matt Williamson isn't impressed with Rams' O-line - If healthy, the Rams should enter 2013 with their best offensive line in years. That, however, may still not be enough for positive recognition. Can Jake Long return to All-Pro form?
Fisher calls on Bulluck to mentor linebackers - Keith Bulluck, a long-time stalwart of Jeff Fisher's Tennessee Titans, will attend several days of the Rams' training camp. The former Pro Bowl outside linebacker will spend much of that time working one-on-one with fellow first-round selection, Alec Ogletree.
Seahawks add another pass-rusher - Recently waived by the Arizona Cardinals, outside linebacker O'Brien Schofield now has a new home in Seattle. A fourth-round pick in 2010, Schofield is no lock to make the Seahawks' crowded roster, but his familiarity in the division helps. Here is more from Mike Sando.
Chris Long talks progress with 101 ESPN.
For the first time in his young career, Sam Bradford enjoys continuity in the offense.