Rams defensive tackle Ryan back after suffering from migraines

Ryan returns to practice for Rams

ST. LOUIS — St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Clifton Ryan returned to practice Friday, the latest step in recovering from migraine headaches that kept him out of two games.

The workout was his first since Sept. 15. He played in the Sept. 12 season opener against Arizona.

“It feels real good to be back,” Ryan said. “To be back out there with the guys, it feels good. It’s really a blessing and I feel thankful to be back out there on the field.”

It is not yet known whether Ryan will play Sunday when the Rams (2-2) visit Detroit (0-4).

“We’ll wait and see. He hasn’t done anything in a while,” coach Steve Spagnuolo said. “Any time you’re talking about the health of somebody from the chin to the hairline, we’re going to be very careful about that.”

Ryan, 26, said he has been bothered by migraines “off and on” since he was 18.

“I’m not putting my medical business out there,” Ryan said. “As far as you guys (are concerned), it’s resolved. As far as Rams Park, it’s probably going to be an ongoing thing but pretty much I don’t think I’ll miss any more time with this situation. I think it’s very manageable.

“I’ve seen a lot of doctors, so I’ll be all right. I’m a tough guy. I think I can tough it out.”

Ryan went to Michigan State and is from Saginaw, Mich. Naturally, he wants to play.

“If it happens, it’s happens,” Ryan said. “I can’t worry about the migraines. I’ve been out for three weeks and we’ve won two games. We’ve got some things rolling. My main thing is I want to be a positive asset to the team.”

A fifth round of the 2007 draft, Ryan had been a mainstay on the defensive line. The 6-foot-2, 324-pound Ryan played in 49 consecutive games, including 27 starts before being hit with migraines.

That streak was a point of pride for Ryan.

“I played in 49 straight games but then this happens, which is disappointing,” Ryan said. “I’ve been away from the game for almost a month and it makes you really miss being out there.”