Rams Notes
By Rams Nation's Site Staff
Battle of the Week
Chad Kuhns, Dan Curley and J.R. Niklos for starting FB - Niklos entered camp
as the nominal starter, but struggled with his blocking and then suffered a
concussion three days before the exhibition opener against Oakland.
He did not
play, leaving an opening for Kuhns, who has impressed the coaches with his blocking
ability. He did "real well," against the Raiders, according to coach
Mike Martz. Not bad for a guy cut by the Jets in May. Curley was drafted this
year as a tight end/fullback, but wasn't able to practice for the first time
until Aug. 4.
OTHER BATTLEFRONTS:
Aeneas Williams vs. Kim Herring for starting FS - With Jason Sehorn out until
October, the Rams want someone at free safety that can make big plays. Herring
hasn't been able to do that the last two seasons. Williams practiced at free
safety for the first time Aug. 4, and started there against the Raiders. However,
he would only move there full time if the team's young cornerbacks - Jerametrius
Butler, Kevin Garrett or DeJuan Groce - show they are capable of starting opposite
Travis Fisher.
PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
RB Arlen Harris - The undrafted free agent rushed for 56 yards on nine attempts
against the Raiders, caught two passes for 20 yards and also returned two kickoffs
for 51 yards. He ran hard, while also showing quickness.
ROOKIE REPORT:
DT Jimmy Kennedy (1st round) is still "a ways away from where we need him,"
according to line coach Bill Kollar. Kennedy is getting pushed around by offensive
linemen. ... LB Pisa Tinoisamoa (2nd), continues to impress with his instincts
and ball awareness. ... WR Kevin Curtis (3rd) caught four passes against the
Raiders, and blended in well, after missing a lot of practice time because of
a quad injury. ... Shane Walton, drafted as a cornerback, played well at free
safety against the Raiders and will remain at that position.
INJURY REPORT:
Players out for the first game were tackle Grant Williams (back), guard James
Broyles (hand), WR Mike Furrey (ankle), S Jason Sehorn (foot) and FB J.R. Niklos
(concussion). Williams is progressing and is expected to practice this week.