Rams’ Kinchen Has Knee Surgery

The Rams, who were looking to add a wide receiver to their roster, instead have lost one.

Todd Kinchen, the team’s third-round pick from a year ago, underwent arthroscopic knee surgery Thursday. The Rams hope to have him back in time for the regular season.

Kinchen did not catch a pass last season but did return a two punts for touchdowns in the season finale against Atlanta.

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The recruiting battle for Buffalo wide receiver James Lofton appears to be heating up. Lofton is scheduled to work out for the Rams today, but there are indications the 49ers and Raiders are making a hard push for him.

The Raiders reportedly offered Lofton $1.8 million for the next two seasons. The Buffalo Bills already have announced that they will not attempt to re-sign Lofton this season.

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Linebacker Fred Strickland, a second-round draft choice in 1988 who failed to meet Ram expectations, has agreed to contract terms with the Minnesota Vikings.

Strickland is expected to sign with the team in time to join the Vikings’ three-day minicamp.

Strickland started 27 of 62 career games with the Rams. Most of his play last season was confined to special teams duty.

He becomes the seventh player to leave the Rams since the advent of free agency March 1.