Fisher names veteran Tim Barnes starting center
ST. LOUIS (AP) — St. Louis Rams coach Jeff Fisher ended the suspense about the last undecided position job Wednesday, naming veteran backup Tim Barnes the starting center.
Fisher said he believes the defending NFC champion Seahawks will attempt to get one-on-one matchups Sunday, but added "we've got a smart group up front."
Barnes is one of three starting NFL offensive linemen from Missouri, known more for churning out defensive linemen.
Players named five captains, quarterback Nick Foles on offense, linebacker James Laurinaitis and defensive end Robert Quinn on defense and punter Johnny Hekker and linebacker Daren Bates on special teams.
First-round pick Todd Gurley was just cleared for contact on Monday and has been ruled out for the opener, leaving Benny Cunningham and Isaiah Pead as backup options.