Pepperoni rolls

Toast

Having a hard time with pepperoni rolls rising after I fill them..  They come out more sticks than rolls.

If the pepperoni is cold could that be affecting the final proof? 

 

 

 

Also should I press out the first few inches thinner and cover over with the thicker dough?

Also should I press out the first few inches thinner and cover over with the thicker dough?