ST. LOUIS (AP) -St. Louis Rams tackle Orlando Pace says his sore right shoulder is from making a tackle, and not related to his past surgery.
Pace landed on his shoulder during the 7-6 preseason win over San Diego last week. He said it's not related to the labrum or rotator cuff, which were torn during the 2007 season opener against Carolina.
``I think I did it when I was trying to make a tackle, and I landed on it pretty good,'' said Pace, who had season-ending surgery on Sept. 20.
The seven-time Pro Bowler said he ``didn't know I'd hurt it until Monday when I came in, and I couldn't raise my arm and it was swelling. That was a little concern to me.''
Pace returned to practice Thursday for the first time since the soreness. The team had a light workout Friday at Rams Park.
Pace missed the second half of the 2006 season with a torn left triceps muscle. He's out to prove he can be a force again.
His teammates know he's important to the club.
He's a big part of our success,'' guard Richie Incognito said.The Big 'O' is close to being back. Having a healthy Orlando in the lineup helps all of us. You want to play like he does.''
St. Louis coach Scott Linehan said he is unsure how much he'll play Pace against the Baltimore Ravens in the final preseason home game on Saturday.
