National Football League

Rookie tackle expects to play this week

Published Nov. 22, 2010 6:09 p.m. ET

foxsports

Results of an MRI exam on St. Louis Rams offensive tackle Rodger Saffold's injured left shoulder were negative, and the rookie expects to play next week at Denver.

Saffold aggravated an injury sustained earlier in the season on pass protecting late in Sunday's 34-17 loss to the Atlanta Falcons.

Saffold said Monday the shoulder was very sore, but he anticipated that rehab would help keep him on the field. He was the first pick of the second round in this year's draft and has started every game at left tackle.

Coach Steve Spagnuolo said Saffold was day to day. Spagnuolo said safety James Butler, who did not play Sunday due to an ankle injury, should be back this week.