Scotty Stirling of the Tribune reported that quarterback Roman Gabriel had turned down a contract offer from the Raiders for three years and $95,000 to play with the Rams. Stirling also reported that the Raiders had offered him in trade to the Texans, who offered him a four-year deal good for $170,000, and Gabriel turned that down as well. He also reported that the winning deal from the Rams had included $50,000 in salary and benefits.

The team signed their 3rd-round redshirt pick from the 1961 draft, defensive lineman Joe Novsek out of the University of Tulsa. The Colts had also selected him as a redshirt pick last year, in the 4th round.

The team signed free agent guard/linebacker Joel Walenta, also from Tulsa.

Cornerback Bob Garner pulled a muscle in practice and would miss the Oilers game on the 17th. Receiver Charley Fuller, who also pulled a muscle on the same play, was questionable for the game.