PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Delpino Will Go on Injured-Reserve List

The Rams plan to put running back Robert Delpino on the injured-reserve list today to recover from the strained left knee ligaments he suffered in last Sunday’s game.

Delpino is expected to miss four weeks, Coach Chuck Knox said.

With the Rams’ bye week Oct. 25, Delpino will miss only three games if he stays on injured reserve the minimum four weeks.

Knox indicated Wednesday that the Rams probably will activate rookie fullback Tim Lester off the practice squad to replace Delpino. Backup David Lang will move into Delpino’s spot as the starting fullback in the Rams’ two-back set.

The Rams released Paul Butcher, who began the season as the starting right linebacker. Butcher hurt his foot in the opener and was put on the injured list two weeks later.

Roman Phifer has taken over the starting spot.

In other moves, the Rams shifted rookie offensive lineman Darryl Ashmore to the practice squad, allowing him to practice with the team while remaining on injured reserve.

Rookie guard Shawn Harper practiced with the team Wednesday, and the Rams must make a decision this week whether to move him to the practice squad or release him.

Knox also said receiver Jeff Chadwick is questionable for Sunday’s game in New Orleans because of a sore back. If Chadwick cannot play, Knox said that rookie Todd Kinchen or veteran Vernon Turner will take Chadwick’s place as a third-down receiver.