Zolman has the edge at No. 3

MACOMB, Ill. -- Rams coach Mike Martz said Friday that while he likes rookie quarterback Kirk Farmer's work ethic, recently signed Greg Zolman now ranks third on the depth chart.

Farmer, a former Missouri quarterback, has dealt with competition in the past; he lost his starting job in college to redshirt freshman Brad Smith during his senior year with the Tigers.

Martz said he likes Farmer's preparation and disposition. He said Farmer did a good job handling the team, but raised questions about whether that's enough right now.

"I'm not displeased with him, but he's a long way away, and his development will take longer than we have time for," Martz said. "We need someone who could play in a game if it was needed."

Other news from Rams training camp on Friday:

The Rams were not in full pads during the afternoon practice because they only have eight healthy linemen. The team is expected to add two players to the roster and be in pads this morning. After that practice, Martz gave the team off until 6 p.m. Sunday.

Defensive end Grant Wistrom, who hasn't practiced in camp because of sore feet developed during pre-camp training, has started jogging and reported no pain. Wistrom said he hopes to be back practicing next week. Wistrom said, "The only thing worse than practicing is not practicing."

Linebacker Maurice Rodriguez, who has shown some promise on special teams, was switched to fullback. "He's excited," Martz said of Rodriguez. "He's too good a player not to find a situation where he can help us. Guys do a number count, and he knew he was down the depth chart at linebacker."

Backup center Andy Eby (knee) and left tackle Grant Williams (back) did not practice Thursday. Tackle John St. Clair was on the sideline Friday because of dehydration.