PRO FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Powers Signed, Wright Released

Alvin Wright, a starting defensive tackle for the Rams since 1988, was released to make room for the team’s newest acquisition, defensive end Warren Powers.

Wright, in his seventh NFL season, said he was surprised by the timing of his release.

“The only way I (thought) that I wasn’t going to be around is if I wasn’t starting,” Wright said. “Well, you know, I started. I didn’t relax, but I didn’t think I would get that phone call, either.”

Wright said Ram Coach Chuck Knox left the possibility open that he could be brought back to the team if he clears waivers and there is room for him. “I’m proud that I walked onto the team and made the squad (as a free agent from Jacksonville State in 1986), and hung around for seven years,” said Wright, 31. “I had a long career for a defensive lineman and I hope this is not the end of it. But if it is, then I have no regrets.”

Powers, 6 feet 6, 270 pounds, was claimed off waivers after the Denver Broncos released him.

Knox said No. 3 draft choice Marc Boutte will start Sunday in Wright’s left tackle spot.

In what cannot be interpreted as good news for 1991 No. 2 draft choice Roman Phifer, Knox said that if Paul Butcher’s strained arch keeps him out of action Sunday, recently acquired Scott Stephen will start at right linebacker.

Phifer has been competing with Butcher for the starting spot, but Knox said the Rams want to see how Stephen, who is about 20 pounds heavier than Phifer, performs in game action.