5:36pm: The Rams cut Pettis after he was late to a meeting on Saturday, reports Mike Garafolo of Fox Sports (via Twitter). A league source confirms the same news to ESPN.com’s Nick Wagoner (via Twitter), who adds that practice squad receiver Emory Blake, who was also cut today, was late to the same meeting.
4:40pm: The Rams have parted ways with wide receiver Austin Pettis, placing him on waivers today, according to Brian McIntyre (Twitter link). Assuming Pettis goes unclaimed, he’ll be free to sign with any team as of tomorrow afternoon.
A third-round pick in 2011, Pettis has caught 107 balls for 1,034 yards and nine touchdowns since joining the Rams, seeing fairly consistent snaps for the club but failing to develop until a bona-fide starter. His roster spot appeared to be in jeopardy earlier this season, but he and the Rams reworked his contract, reducing his base salary and allowing him to stay with the team. Seven weeks into the season though, the club has decided to let him go.
The move opens up a spot on the 53-man roster for the Rams, who could opt to sign an outside free agent or promote one of their practice squad players.