Rodger Saffold injury update: St. Louis Rams tackle could return after bye week

St. Louis Rams offensive tackle Rodger Saffold isn't likely to return for the team's game this weekend against the New England Patriots in London, but could return for the team's game in Week 10 following next week's bye, says the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Saffold suffered a knee injury in Week 2 against the Washington Redskins and hasn't played since. Saffold didn't practice last week and isn't likely to this week, either. Saffold was diagnosed with a third-degree MCL sprain. He's avoided surgery to this point, which shows the Rams are hopeful to have him back this season. His replacement, Wayne Hunter, also didn't play last week against the Green Bay Packers, leaving third-stringer Joe Barksdale to start at left tackle.

The Rams will need all the help they can get protecting Sam Bradford, who has been sacked 21 times in 2012. The bye week should help Saffold recover. The Patriots and Rams kick off at noon CT on Sunday.