Rams' St. Clair says he's ready to step in as a starter

MACOMB, Ill. -- John St. Clair's days as a spectator are long gone.

The St. Louis Rams' offensive tackle has never played a down in a regular-season game, and hasn't even dressed as a reserve. For two seasons, he's been one of those large bodies in sweat clothes standing on the sideline on game day.

But the Rams didn't hesitate to hand him the job vacated when they released Ryan Tucker in a salary cap move in the off-season. Coach Mike Martz often is asked about St. Clair, and he's unwavering in his praise.

"John is our starter," Martz said. "He's had so much success against some of our better players on defense the last two years it just doesn't seem to be a concern for me."

St. Clair, a third-round pick in 2000 who has been on the list of inactives every week, is looking forward to repaying that confidence. He doesn't want to be the weak link on a perennial Super Bowl-contending team.

"I always prepared myself to play and I knew one day I'd get a chance," St. Clair said. "Everybody needs to prepare whether you're playing or not, and now I need to execute."

The teammate who'll be counting on him the most has no worries. Quarterback Kurt Warner, whose left flank is protected by All-Pro tackle Orlando Pace, feels safe in the pocket.

"I don't really pay attention to it, but I ask the coaches and I ask the defensive guys how he's going, and there's nothing but praise from that side of the camp," Warner said. "I know he's a great athlete and he's smart, and now it's all about experience."

Although St. Clair was an all-Atlantic Coast Conference pick as a center at Virginia, his only professional experience has come in preseason games. But the Rams also took note of his progress on the practice field, where he's come a long, long way since his rookie season.