Rams’ exhibition against Denver could serve as proving ground for receivers

The Rams’ exhibition against the Denver Broncos on Saturday night at Invesco Field might serve as a proving ground for at least one veteran receiver and rookies trying to make the roster.

Veteran Brian Quick is playing on a one-year prove-it contract. Quick had several drops in the first two exhibitions and Coach Jeff Fisher twice this week referenced Quick’s need to improve.

So the fifth-year pro will be among the receivers who must step up, Fisher said.

“It’s the guys that have been dropping the footballs,” Fisher said Wednesday. “It’s the Brian Quicks and some of the younger guys. We’ve got to be more consistent catching the football.”

Michael Thomas, a sixth-round draft pick, also has struggled with drops.

Veterans Tavon Austin and Kenny Britt are starters and could play as much as a half against the Broncos. Rookie Pharoh Cooper, who caught a touchdown last week against the Kansas City Chiefs, also is assured of a spot on the final 53-man roster that will be set after the last exhibition against the Minnesota Vikings.

Bradley Marquez won’t play Saturday because of an ankle injury suffered against the Chiefs, but the second-year pro has had an impressive camp and is a valuable special teams player.

Undrafted free agent Nelson Spruce suffered a knee sprain while making a team-best six catches against the Dallas Cowboys, and he will be sidelined for the second consecutive exhibition.

Undrafted free agent Duke Williams shined early in training camp and has apparently played well on special teams. But he has only one reception.

Paul McRoberts, Austin Hill and David Richards are other undrafted free agents trying to make the roster.