PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Lester Baffled Over Inactivity

The Rams delivered the ultimate insult to Tim Lester on Friday when they listed the uninjured running back inactive for Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos.

Lester, who received a free trip to last year’s Pro Bowl (compliments of Jerome Bettis) for his superior blocking performance, was informed without explanation that he wouldn’t be needed this week. In addition to losing his starting fullback duties to Howard Griffith, Lester learned this week that he would no longer be included on the kickoff coverage team.

“I have no idea what’s happening; I was surprised,� Lester said. “I guess they’re trying to say I was the problem or something. I don’t see a difference now really from last year. I haven’t forgotten how to block or anything. It’s tougher this year because teams know we’re running all the time, but my blocking’s the same.�

Coach Chuck Knox offered no explanation for Lester’s demotion.

The Rams also listed injured center Bern Brostek, tackle Ronald Edwards and running back James Bostic as inactive.

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Starting right guard Leo Goeas sat out practice for a second consecutive day because of an abdominal muscle strain and tackle Darryl Ashmore may start in his place.

“This is my first time playing guard--ever,� Ashmore said, who filled in for a few plays against the Atlanta Falcons this season. “Each day I’ve been getting more used to it, so I feel more comfortable. I know the plays because of having to know what the guy next to me has to do.�

Ashmore started the season at right tackle, but suffered a knee injury. He said he could not have played the entire game against New Orleans two weeks ago, but is ready to go the whole way now if needed.

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The Rams are expected to promote guard/center Brad Fichtel from the practice squad to the 53-man roster to replace wide receiver Richard Buchanan (hamstring) and provide additional offensive line insurance.

Tackle Jackie Slater said he will be available for emergency duty, but he said he is still not 100% and is not sure how long his injured triceps will hold up.