Ram Notebook : Newberry’s Holdout Gives Schad Another Chance to Prove His Worth

Unless there’s a minor miracle, such as Tom Newberry ending his holdout this week, the Rams will play next Saturday in Canton, Ohio, with Mike Schad starting at left guard.

It’s hard not to note the irony. Schad was the team’s first-round draft choice in 1986. Newberry was a second-round pick that year.

Schad, drafted as a tackle but since converted to guard, has been a bust his first two years.

Newberry became a starter in his rookie season and is on the verge of stardom.

In the Rams’ preseason prospectus, Coach John Robinson calls Newberry “one of the best young lineman in the NFL. Most observers feel that he played at an All-Pro level last season.”

Schad is making $185,000 this year, Newberry $150,000.

Surprise--Newberry’s a holdout.

And look who’s holding down his fort? Granted, Schad needed some help. Robert Cox was Newberry’s replacement until Saturday, when Cox sprained his knee and ankle in practice. He’s definitely out of this week’s exhibition opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.

“This gives Mike Schad a chance,” Robinson said Sunday. “It gives Tony Slaton the opportunity. Most of these negatives provide opportunities. It’s how a lot of guys get started.

“Tom Newberry wasn’t a starter until we traded Kent Hill (to Houston).”

Robinson has publicly voiced his displeasure over Newberry’s holdout. He says the Rams have offered to renegotiate his contract and that Newberry should be in camp.

Reportedly, the Rams have offered to increase Newberry’s salary $50,000 this year and next on the condition he agree to a two-year extension, something Newberry doesn’t want to do.

And until Newberry returns, Robinson will continue to sell Schad to the world.

Ram Notes

Coach John Robinson wouldn’t come out and say it, but it’s safe to say that Tom Newberry is being fined $1,000 per day of his holdout. “We’re not pleased with Tom, which may give you a hint,” Robinson said. . . . Looking to bolster their offensive line, the Rams have claimed former UCLA guard Mark Schmidt on waivers from Denver. . . . Second-round cornerback Anthony Newman, who bruised a shin more than a week ago, may return to practice today. . . . Robinson said there will be roster cuts before Saturday’s exhibition game. He’s planning to take 70 to 75 players to Canton. There are 91 Rams in camp.