Turley reinjures his back

**Nick** · #1 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

Tackle undergoing tests on back
R.B. FALLSTROM
Associated Press

MACOMB, Ill. - St. Louis Rams offensive tackle Kyle Turley reinjured his surgically repaired back in practice Saturday and the team scheduled tests to determine the extent of the problem.

The team characterized the injury as a strain and tests were done at training camp rather than having Turley return to St. Louis. Turley, who left the field on a cart during the morning practice, has been trying to build his strength and regain pounds lost since the surgery and he had been seeing limited action in workouts.

On Tuesday, the day Rams players reported to training camp, Martz downplayed doubts about Turley's readiness.

"He looks like he's in terrific shape," Martz said then. "There's no reason why he won't be 100 percent in camp."

Last year was Turley's first with the Rams and he started all 16 games.

A few other players also are dealing with back issues. Defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy, the team's first-round pick last year, rode a stationary bicycle during both practices and safety Rich Coady and offensive guard Ryan Schau were out.

Other minor injuries were sustained by linebacker Tommy Polley (sprained toe) and tight end Cam Cleeland (hamstring).

Aside from Turley, Martz didn't appear overly concerned about any of the other players.

"Unless it's a real serious injury, I just don't pay a heck of a lot of attention to it," Martz said. "Whoever shows up, we're going to practice and there's nothing you can do about the rest of the guys.

"When you get them back, you get them back."

*Ferter* · #2 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

Well all we can do is hope it is just a strain and nothing more serious. The last two seasons the injury bug has hit hard. Hopefully our luck will change this season.

:ramlogo:

#3 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

Lets all hope for the best. this is a potential disaster of biblical porportions.

general counsel

*RealRam* · #4 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

Yes, hope for the best. Get well soon. :upset: I mean it!

KT is a definite tough guy, but an injury like that ... at this point, when we're just getting started for a season that hasn't even started and is so full of unknown factors ... no, we can't afford to be without this tackle!

*UtterBlitz* · #5 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

Boo. back injuries are not good. Hopefully Turley can get thru this one before the season opens.

*majorram* · #6 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

You know what, can't we just have some good news!!!!! god I just hope the Turley is fine and that it's a sprain...HHHHMMMMMM

steve :ramlogo:

**RamsFanSam** · #7 (**permalink**) -01-08-2004

According to NFL.com, Turley himself said it was a potential career-ending injury....

I agree. Let's hear some good news.....

*ZigZagRam* · #8 (**permalink**) -02-08-2004

Even if Turley can't go, I don't think our season's anywhere close to over. Grant Williams could be a starter on a lot of teams in this league. He's no Turley, but he's no John St. Clair either.

#9 (**permalink**) -02-08-2004

Quote:

RamsFamily's Sig:
I declare my home a Rams home. There will be no talk of the Whiners, Seachickens, Cards, Cowgirls, Chefs, Bores, or any other team. My woman will be a Rams fan, as will my children. That is all there is to it!

This is classic!