PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Russell White Cut After Reporting

Running back Russell White reported to the Rams’ UC Irvine training camp site but got no chance to unpack.

The Rams released White, who was selected in the third round of the draft from California a year ago, to make room for former Arizona Cardinal running back Johnny Bailey.

White ran two times for 10 yards last season and failed to impress the coaching staff in off-season workouts.

Bailey comes in as the team’s No. 1 punt and kickoff returner. He also can play on third downs in obvious passing situations in relief of Jerome Bettis.

The Rams tried to sign Bailey several months ago, but he was asking for more than $1 million. He agreed Thursday to a one-year contract for $162,000, which will escalate to $200,000 if he makes the final roster.

The Rams also released punter Jeff Buffaloe.

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Tackle Wayne Gandy, the No. 1 pick, and his agent, Neil Schwartz, flew to Orange County on Thursday night in hopes of breaking a deadlock in contract negotiations. The Rams begin two-a-day workouts today.

Gandy has been asking for a four-year deal. The Rams have countered with a five-year offer.

At issue is Gandy’s status at the expiration of his contract. A four-year deal would allow him to become an unrestricted free agent. Anything short of four years will allow the Rams to maintain their rights to him. A five-year deal would potentially tie him up for six years because of a change in the collective bargaining agreement that kicks in during 1999.

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Running back David Lang has been cleared to practice once a day, but wide receiver Todd Kinchen will remain on the sideline. Both players are recovering from knee injuries.