PRO FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Lineman Hawkins Expected to Start

Bill Hawkins, starting right defensive end who has been sidelined since the first exhibition game because of a strained right calf, practiced at full speed Thursday and appears ready to start Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots.

Hawkins, who recorded two sacks in that first exhibition game against the Seattle Seahawks and appeared to be meeting expectations set for him since he was drafted No. 1 in 1989, said he hasn’t been frustrated by the long inactivity.

“I knew if you let it heal correctly, it’d be over with,” Hawkins said. “It’s a long season.”

Roman Phifer changed Coach Chuck Knox’s mind with a good practice and Knox said Phifer will start at right linebacker Sunday if starter Paul Butcher remains hampered by a strained arch.

Before practice Wednesday, Knox said that newly acquired Scott Stephen would get the call if Butcher, listed as questionable, could not play.

Also listed as questionable is free safety Pat Terrell, who has a neck injury. If Terrell can’t play, strong safety Anthony Newman will move over to Terrell’s spot and Michael Stewart will play strong safety.

As of 5 p.m. Thursday, the Rams had about 27,000 tickets left for Sunday’s home opener, which means the game will be blacked out locally.