Rams report, 8/10

from local reports

The Rams have an open practice set for today at 2:30. That is a confirmed change from the original schedule. None of Thursday's practices will be open, but Friday's at 2:30 will.

* Injuries:
- New dings: James Laurinaitis (pectoral), Mardy Gilyard (blurred vision).
- Long-term: Jerome Murphy will have surgery on his broken ankle today. Corresponding roster move TBD. The only other long-term injury is Dominique Curry's broken hand. Out several weeks at last word.
- Sitting out: Donnie Avery, Ron Bartell, Michael Hoomanawanui (concussion), Greg Salas (hamstring - not knee), Chris Smith (knee), David Vobora (concussion). Avery's listed as a hamstring injury but the training staff also wants him to back off for a while, not wanting to overwork his rehabbed knee. Bartell (thigh) was listed as active in some camp reports though not Jim Thomas'. He's probably very close to being fully cleared.
- Back at it: Danario Alexander returned to practice yesterday after missing several due to fluid build-up in his knee. Fendi Onobun, Jermelle Cudjo and Eugene Sims have also returned.

* Transactions: Contrary to reports by John Clayton and others, the Rams don't have a deal yet with Ben Leber. I'd figure it's imminent, though, as soon as they've made a roster move regarding Murphy. Does give me a little time to work up a profile post, though, so thanks for that.

Head coach Steve Spagnuolo says that no one has taken a clear lead in the Rams' wide receiver derby, though Danny Amendola has provided a spark. But even with 11 wideouts already in camp to battle for 6 or 7 spots, the Rams remain interested in re-signing Mark Clayton if he's healthy. He's expected in camp next week for tests to see how far along his knee and leg are.

More updates as they happen.

Photo: STLToday

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