PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : NFC : Rams Release New Cornerback

Cornerback Maurice Hurst failed his physical after being claimed off waivers by the St. Louis Rams and was released Thursday.

The team promoted linebacker Paschall Davis from the practice squad to the active roster.

Hurst, a seven-year veteran, was waived by the New England Patriots on Monday. His agent said Hurst has been playing with a herniated disk in his neck that bothers him when he turns his head to the right.

The Rams decided not to place Hurst on injured reserve and rehabilitate him for next season. Hurst has a $1.4-million contract for this year and next.

Hurst has 27 career interceptions, three fewer than the total for the entire Rams’ secondary. Last year he had seven, this season he has one.