PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Rookie Boykin to Return Kicks

The Rams started the season with Russell White and Steve Israel, took a look at Todd Kinchen and now will give rookie Deral Boykin his chance to return kicks. Boykin, a defensive back and the Rams’ sixth-round draft pick, ranked eighth in the nation with a 26.8-yard average returning kicks for Kansas in 1989.

The Rams have averaged 16.3 yards per return, while the opposition has averaged 23.3. “I’m a rookie and I haven’t been playing much and this is my opportunity to play,” Boykin said. “Hopefully this will be the last change back there. I’m looking forward to getting the ball in my hand and make something happen.”

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Coach Chuck Knox announced that running back David Lang, defensive end Robert Young, defensive lineman Tony Woods and offensive lineman Keith Loneker will be inactive for Sunday’s game.

Defensive tackle Sean Gilbert (hamstring) practiced without apparent difficulty and Knox said he expects Gilbert to play.

Tight end Pat Carter is expected to start for the first time since injuring his foot in the season opener.

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Running back Jerome Bettis was born and raised in Detroit and will start against the Lions. No big deal, said Bettis, “because I was always a Cowboys fan growing up. At the time, you’ve got to remember, Detroit wasn’t that good and the Cowboys were always on TV.”

Bettis, however, said he was a big fan of former Lion running back Billy Sims.