Robinson Makes It Official: Bartkowski Starts in Ram Opener
Although it has been assumed all along, Ram Coach John Robinson announced Saturday that Steve Bartkowski will start at quarterback in the season opener next Sunday against the Cardinals at St. Louis.
Among other things, it makes Bartkowski the fifth opening-day starter for the Rams in this decade, joining Pat Haden, Bert Jones, Vince Ferragamo and Dieter Brock.
Bartkowski, the 33-year-old veteran obtained by the Rams as a free agent in the off-season, did not play in Friday night’s 19-10 loss to the Denver Broncos because of an abdominal muscle pull.
But Robinson said Saturday that Bartkowski will be ready.
“That’s why we rested him,” Robinson said. “If he’s not healed, we will stand over him and say a few words and then he’ll be healed. I don’t mean to sound flippant, but we feel like he’s 100%.”
Ram Notes Coach John Robinson wouldn’t comment on whether quarterback Dieter Brock, who is recovering from Aug. 12 knee surgery, will be placed on injured reserve when the team cuts to 45 players on Monday. If placed on the reserve list, Brock couldn’t be activated for four weeks. Robinson did say that his recovery has been slower than anticipated. “We’re concerned that it’s taking longer,” he said. “We’re just waiting for the OK.” . . . Of all the injuries suffered in Friday’s game, safety Tim Fox’s hamstring pull was the most severe and his status for next week won’t be known for a few days. . . . Tight end Damone Johnson has a bad knee and shoulder, which will be re-examined soon. . . . Cornerback Mickey Sutton, fighting for a spot on the club, didn’t hurt his chances against the Broncos, returning an interception 34 yards for a touchdown to go along with a 30-yard punt return. . . . The Rams still are looking for a backup linebacker and cornerback.
