While rookie slot receiver Davone Bess is expected to start opposite Ted Ginn Jr., offensive coordinator Dan Henning made it clear that Wilford will receive, "a number of snaps," against the St . Louis Rams Sunday after being inactive the last seven games.

"The best thing I can ever say about a guy I say about Ernest," Henning said. "He came here with high hopes and was disappointed; he didn't get into depression, didn't get excusing. He just went to work. .,. I'm hoping he is more exactly what we were looking for when he came here."

Wilford, 29, who has one catch for 1 5 yards in three games, recalls that he had the best game of his career against the Rams when he had six catches for 145 yards and a touchdown in a 24-21 loss in 2005. Wilford, who averaged 40 receptions for 574 yards in his last three seasons with Jacksonville, had a career-best seven touchdowns in '05.

"I had a one-handed touchdown so it's a good memory," Wilford said of his lone trip to St. Louis. "From here, hopefully I can have another jump start on my career. Despite receiving $6 million in guarantees, Wilford isn't concerned about outside criticism.

"I don't have to prove anything to nobody but myself," he said. "I feel like I came here for a reason to make plays and hopefully if it presents itself I can do that."

Coach Tony Sparano has also been impressed by Wilford's upbeat attitude during his season-long benching.

"I'm surprised because the circumstances weren't easy for Ernest," Sparano said. "I'm not surprised because I know the guy and just getting to know Ernest right now, I know the guy. I know his beliefs. He has some str ong beliefs in his ability and the fact that if he kept working his opportunity would come around and his opportunity is going to come around just like [Brandon] London's and maybe a couple of other guys. ... It's a game of opportunity and when it's your turn, unfortunately, the way sometimes people get their opportunities, but you make the most of them."

Tackle Kirk Barton was released from the practice squad and cornerback Will Billingsley was re-signed.

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