Illinois’ Piel, Last of Rams’ Draft Selections, Comes to Terms

The Rams, completing their quickest draft-choice signing season in recent memory, reached a three-year contract agreement with third-round pick Mike Piel Friday.

Piel, a defensive lineman from Illinois, was the 14th and last Ram selection to come to terms. With three Ram holdouts on the defensive line, Piel figures to get plenty of playing time in training camp.

“He’s going to play 52 minutes in Canton,” Coach John Robinson said, referring to the team’s exhibition opener next Saturday against the Cincinnati Bengals at Canton, Ohio.

Ram Notes

According to the Rams, veteran wide receiver Kevin House has been released with an option to return within a week if he can’t find work with another team. House, 30, figured to be fighting for the fourth wide receiver spot. . . . Coach John Robinson is not shedding tears over the holdouts of defensive linemen Shawn Miller, Doug Reed and Greg Meisner. “Let’s be honest,” Robinson said. “These guys aren’t exactly the scourge of the league. I’m not being negative, they work hard and all. . . . “ Robinson said the Rams are willing to shop first- and second-round draft choices around the league to find replacements for the linemen.

Robinson is also miffed over the holdout of guard Tom Newberry, who is under contract but out of camp. The Rams have offered to renegotiate Newberry’s contract, which pays him $150,000 this year and $200,000 in 1989. But a deal has yet to be reached. “He has an obligation to all of us to work,” Robinson said. “He has chosen not to be here. It’s irresponsible on his part.” . . . Punter Dale Hatcher injured his left knee in a non-contact agility drill Thursday morning and spent the day on crutches. He may be out at least a week. . . . Reserve quarterback Doug Gaynor, a former star at Cal State Long Beach, was released to join the Ottawa Roughriders of the Canadian Football League.