GumboBC

-- Turley Wants to Play Defense --
Sun Apr 3, 2005 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Diego Union-Tribune reports St. Louis Rams OT Kyle Turley is planning a switch to defensive end this year – a position he hasn't played since high school – as long he can pass a physical exam and resume working relations with a head coach he won't forgive. Turley, a former standout at San Diego State, wants to switch to defensive end to relieve pressure on his back, a subject of controversy and much physical stress for Turley since December. Turley suffered from a herniated disc in preseason training camp and missed the entire 2004 season. "I need to play a position where I have more freedom to move around and get out of problem situations," Turley said yesterday by phone. "My back was injured on pass plays (on offense)." Turley said Rams GM Charlie Armey and operations chief Jay Zygmunt have given him the "we'll see" answer to his switch request. A call to the Rams office seeking comment was not immediately returned last night. In the last three months, Turley's weight dipped to 235 for the first time since his freshman year at SDSU. After working out in Tempe, Ariz., he has it back up to 260 – with a target of 275. He was once up to 309. As a result, he said, he's going to be faster than ever and is feeling great about extending his career.