JT Chat, … 2/24

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_79?Page=4

After the combine, do you have any additional thoughts on quarterbacks? (In Caifornia and the talk about the RAMS has really died down in the last two weeks)
by Rams41 1:59 PM

It’s looking more and more like Winston will go first to Tampa Bay. And that Mariotta will be long gone before the Rams pick at No. 10 overall. Winston showed a lot of charisma during his media session. You could see how he can be a leader on the field. Don’t know if the second tier did anything to separate itself. Was impressed with how Brett Hundley presented himself, and Petty as well.
by jthomas 2:02 PM

Hey Jim Thanks for the chat as always.. If Amari Cooper is there @ 10 dowe take him? I will be very tempting.. Just curious what you thought..
by Mike 2:03 PM

I don’t think Cooper will be there at 10. But if he is, I wonder if Fisher takes a wide receiver that high. Taking Tavon Austin at No. 8 overall _ and trading up to do so _ was unusual for Fisher. That hasn’t worked out all that great for the Rams so far, so I’m not sure if Fisher would go for a Cooper or a Kevin White there.
by jthomas 2:04 PM

Jim, what offensive linemen stood out at the combine? Thanks.
by Bull 2:04 PM

In terms of the workout and drills, Mizzou’s Mitch Morse had one of the best workouts of any O-lineman at the Combine. Among the 52 O-linemen invited to the combine, he was among the top 8 performers, or better in just about every category. He’s not a first round, but could go second or third round. And his predecessor at Mizzou, Justin Britt, had a very successful year starting at RT for Seattle. Iowa’s Brandon Scherff, generally considered the best O-linemen in the draft only lifted and ran the 40 before suffering a hamstring injury that ended his combine. The small college guy from Hobart, Ali Marpet, worked out well. As did Va. Tech’s Laurence Gibson. Those two aren’t really considered top guys. But from what I can tell, none of the top guys (T.J. Clemmings, La’el Collins, etc.) hurt themselves.
by jthomas 2:13 PM

True or not, rumblings that Bradford’s agent isn’t willing to play ball on renegotiating his contract for 2015? If things stay stuck does that put the Rams in a position of trade him and get something or cut him to save $$$ and get nothing? They wouldn’t keep him at the current contract salary level, or would they? Game of chicken?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:14 PM

It is developing into a test of wills, or game of chicken as you put it. I know for a fact that Bradford’s agent doesn’t want to take a pay cut at this point. As much as the Rams want to keep Bradford, and are almost boxed in to do so, I do wonder what will happen down the road if this stalemate continues. I’m not sure at this point if the Rams keep him if they can’t negotiate a decrease.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

What player, present or past, does Marriotta remind you most of?
by ClevelandGary 2:18 PM

I’m not sure if I can give you one, partly because of the style of offense he ran in college. And partly because he runs a 4.5. I think he’s a more polished passer that Russell Wilson, taller obviously. Doesn’t have the arm strength of Kaepernick but definitely more accurate.
by jthomas 2:21 PM

Any chance we trade up for a QB?
by BJH 2:22 PM

At this point, all things are possible.
by jthomas 2:22 PM

Who’s our first round pick Jim?
by BJH 2:22 PM

If it’s me picking, at this point I’m taking Iowa G/T Brandon Scherff, although I reserve the right to change my mind _ and change it often between now and April 30.
by jthomas 2:23 PM

Is Brian Quick recovering well?
by jjenkslockdown 2:27 PM

Looks that way. Been told he’s at the facility a lot during rehab.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

Do you see C. Givens & Z. Stacy on the roster next season? Is T. Austin’s lack of offensive production a result of his technique, playbook knowledge or lack of game planning?
by BMac 2:28 PM

Due to Givens’ cap number _ $1.7 million range _ I think he’s more likely to get cut unless he shows he’s more than a No. 5 WR. I would say technique. I think his playbook knowledge is pretty good at this point. Keep in mind, he has worked with second_ or third-string QBs all but 7 games of his first 10 NFL seasons.
by jthomas 2:30 PM

I think Tavon will be fine once we get our solid QB back.
by BigDave Wave 2:31 PM

Some continuity at the position would help.
by jthomas 2:31 PM

Let’s say the cornerback Trae Wayne is available at #10.Do we pull the the trigger for BPA even though were loaded at the position? Can’t see anyway we don’t go with OL unless 1 of the 2 QB’s are there.
by Dwayne 2:31 PM

Yeah, there could be several players like that that the Rams could be starting at #10. What if Kevin White’s there? Or one of the top pass rusher (like Mizzou’s Shane Ray)?
by jthomas 2:33 PM

I read Ted Ginn JR was released. Who had the better upside coming out of college: Ted Ginn or Tavon Austin? I see them both in the same “sand box” and I think both were taken 8th overall?
by ClevelandGary 2:34 PM

I think Austin was more highly-regarded coming out of college. As I recall, taking Ginn that high (he actually went 9th overall to Miami) was seen as a bit of a reach. Similar type styles. I think Austin will end up as a more productive NFL receiver.
by jthomas 2:36 PM

Can we all agree, including Snisher, that taking a QB with our 5th round pick is not going to cut it, they have to pull the trigger with the 2nd pick or the very latest the 3rd rounder.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:36 PM

I think so. And that’s while recognizing that a trade or a free-agent QB pickup could change the dynamic. Then again, they don’t invite me into the draft meetings.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

Jim, did you get a chance to watch the LBs in position drills? I’m wondering if there could be some solid backups available in the 5th round. Anyone you like?
by c_good 2:38 PM

I watched a little bit of the LBs on TV, but not enough to make any sweeping judgments. I can see a scenario where the Rams might go earlier at linebacker.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

they should invite you to draft meetings
by noob 2:40 PM

I’d like that.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

True of False: The Rams are 1 probowl offensive lineman away and a healthly Bradford (minimum 12 games) to win the NFC West?
by R.O.T 2:40 PM

I’d be tempted to say yes if you were talking about a wild-card berth instead of a division title.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

40 minutes in and no LA questions yet?? Given the recent Chargers/Raiders collaboration, what areyour odds that Rams are in STL in 2016
by jv 2:41 PM

We’ve gotten some LA questions already _ but certainly not as many as in recent weeks. I just haven’t had a chance to get to any of them yet. My newly updated odds feature only a slight change: 46 to 54 percent Rams stay. (Up from 45-55).
by jthomas 2:44 PM

Anything new on the Britt, Kendricks and Barksdale front?
by punkindrublik 2:44 PM

Nothing new on that front. I think their agents all talked with the Rams at the Combine.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

Good day Jim, any word on possible Joe Barksdale contract extension?
by ekern55 2:45 PM

Talked briefly via text at the Combine, was told nothing new.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

what would bradford fetch in a trade, a fourth rounder at best?
by noob 2:45 PM

Maybe a third.
by jthomas 2:46 PM

If Jake Long was moved to the interior line, could he play Center? Is he too tall or is the move from Tackle to Center just to different?
by ClevelandGary 2:46 PM

Can’t see Long playing center. In fact, I’m thinking he could be a cap casualty.
by jthomas 2:46 PM

I say we cut Bradford Long Well’s and whoever else will help us in the cap department and go all in for AP or Demarco Murray.
by Playmaker39 2:47 PM

Interesting. Shouldn’t you find a guy or two to block for him (AP or Murray) as well?
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Who would you rather have: a fully recovered Bradford or Marriotta under center?
by ClevelandGary 2:47 PM

Fascinating but tough to answer. Long term, I think I’d say Mariota. For this season, I’d say Bradford.
by jthomas 2:48 PM

Permalink
Trade back a few spots, pick up Erving and AJ Cann, reach for Mannion in the 3rd?
by c_good 2:48 PM

Mannion concerns me. Lots of college INTs.
by jthomas 2:48 PM

Jake Long needs to be cut or at least reduce his salary to his 2.5 mil buyout. And let him be a 3rd OT.
by 76hitter 2:49 PM

Again, I have my doubts that J. Long will be around for 2015.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

If Carson, Inglewood, and the stl stadium projects all become a reality i have a extremely hard time seeing the nfl siding with Stan Kroenke agree?
by Josh 2:49 PM

Agreed. Under that scenario, can’t see them turning their back on a city that will be ready to build two NFL stadiums in less than 25 years. Then again, I’m not totally ruling out the possibility of Stan going rogue under that kind of scenario.
by jthomas 2:51 PM

Hi Jim, I’m in So Cal and I heard on the radio (ESPN)that the Browns are interested in Sam Bradford. Have you heard this ?
by Johnny 2:52 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

Do we know if Schotty had complete freedom over the offense/play calling or did Fisher keep him on a short leash? Does Cignetti get any kind of leash?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:52 PM

Pretty much so. FIsher isn’t much of meddler. But keep in mind, there’s an overall philosophy that Fisher wants the OC to adhere to, otherwise he wouldn’t reveal it.
by jthomas 2:53 PM

The Browns should be interested in just about everyone, shouldn’t they?
by c_good 2:53 PM

No doubt.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

Think the Rams would deal him?
by c_good 2:54 PM

Bradford? Doubt it.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

What would the Browns give up to try me get Bradford? Or any team? More than. 3rd rounder if you do a sign and trade deal right?
by Grant 2:55 PM

Let’s just say the Rams get a third-rounder for Bradford. How does that help your QB situation?
by jthomas 2:56 PM

Best salesman in the USA was Manziel selling himself to the Browns, Agree?
by Don 2:56 PM

Browns haven’t always made the best personnel decisions.
by jthomas 2:56 PM

What Free Agents could you see the Rams going after or at least position??
by Fin 2:57 PM

Ask me in a week or so.
by jthomas 2:57 PM

there was legit dodgeball on fox sports midwest during the day yesterday. did the ADAA get one of the big television offers were seeing more and more of? I’m in disbelief espn 8 the ocho would let such a commodity go
by noob 2:57 PM

I’m told the Ocho continues to hold open much of its programming time for the possibility of Parade Meter festivities.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

EJ gaines biggest steal in the Draft last year ?
by Johnny 2:58 PM

I think he’d certainly be near the top, possibly on the medal stand.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Jim, I know its an agents job to play hardball, but at some point doesn’t the player step up and say, I’ve basically stolen $50 million from the Rams lets renegotiate?
by Len 2:59 PM

I wouldn’t say “stolen” _ the guy was NFL offensive rookie of the year in 2010. And nearly led Rams to the playoffs in 2012. But I think your overall point is valid. The agent works for the player; not vice versa.
by jthomas 3:01 PM

I don’t know if the Rams will be in St. Louis in 2 years, but I do know that Jeff Fisher will still love penalties and hate touchdowns and that Bradford will still be average.
by Jake 3:01 PM

Our early leader for most sarcastic question of the day. . . . .
by jthomas 3:02 PM

Jim, If Rams keeep Bradford this season which it looks like they will, I can’t see Fisher going OL in first round again. I understand Rams need help on OL but if Cooper or White is sitting there at 10 how can you pass up once again on a true number 1 WR?
by JM 3:02 PM

Jeff Fisher can. That could change if Britt signs elsewhere.
by jthomas 3:02 PM

Jim, what bothers me as a Ram fan is that Bradford has made a ton of money and has been hurt most of the time so why will he not take an incentive laden deal which will help the Rams bring in other free agents which will help him win and protect him from getting hurt. Again, the players have to reign in these greedy agents.
by Mike Camuso 3:03 PM

Can’t argue with you Mike.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Should fans be concerned that everyone drafting around the Rams this year also has a boatload of cap space, meanwhile the Rams are in the bottom 5? Top 10 drafting & bottom 5 of cap room… not a good combo.
by Tackleberry 3:04 PM

Don’t think the Rams will be bottom 5 once we get to free agency.
by jthomas 3:04 PM

Lets just make it a West Virginia party. Draft Kevin White and trade for Geno Smith to join Austin and Bailey. Thoughts?
by Rock15 3:04 PM

Sure on White, no on Geno.
by jthomas 3:04 PM

Hey Jim, chances that Fisher sees Hundley as Vince Young II and cut him off of the board? By doing this, the only other real option would be Bryce Petti?
by Luiz_BR 3:05 PM

Don’t thing anyone regards Hundley as the next Vince Young. Petty I think is a good option. Maybe Garrett Grayson?
by jthomas 3:06 PM

I do not see why a new stadium will increase attendance (more money foe tem owner). I believe a open air stadium will hurt attendance.
by joe 3:06 PM

What happened to all those people who didn’t like the idea of a domed stadium back in 1995. Who insisted real football was played outdoors. Has the opinion changed that much in 20 years?
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Jim, where do you think the ‘2nd tier’ QB’s will be picked? Thanks.
by Bull 3:08 PM

I think Hundley and Petty go in the second round. Mannion and Grayson at least a round later.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Do you think we will resign Kenny Britt? Also, do you think that his signing or not signing will lead the Rams to consider DGB?
by jjenkslockdown 3:09 PM

Rams are trying to get Britt re-signed. And it’s only natural that if Britt doesn’t re-sign that the Rams would be more inclined to look for draft help at the position _ DGB included.
by jthomas 3:10 PM

Thanks for the chat sessions every week. Seems to be no consensus on what Titans will do at #2, if they take Mariota and are willing to trade QB Mettenberg, interested, or you would rather roll the dice with a drafted QB?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:10 PM

I think the Titans keep Mettenberger even if they draft Mariotta. From what I hear in Nashville, it’s far from a slam dunk that Tennessee takes a QB at No. 2.
by jthomas 3:12 PM

If the Scherff from Iowa, the O-lineman is available at 10 and so is DGB which one is more likely selected
by Brent Wood 3:12 PM

I’d say Scherff. Can’t see DGB going that high.
by jthomas 3:12 PM

Please tell me based on recent developments that you are at least back to 50/50 the Rams are here in 2016 and beyond…
by ESK 3:12 PM

Nope. As I posted earlier, up 1-point to 46-54.
by jthomas 3:13 PM

Jim..Bradfor is playing hardball and dont wnat to take a pay cut. ok, understand that is a business. But do you see him playing good this year and the Rams paying him a big contract in the moldes of those last QB contracts in the league? I bet that this is not Snead vision/philosophy
by Luiz_BR 3:13 PM

I think the Rams would love to be stuck with that dilemma. That Bradford plays lights out in 2015 and they have to decide whether to sign him to along-term contract for 2016 and beyond..
by jthomas 3:14 PM

Jim, I moved to LA the year the Rams left. It is very rare for me to meet a Rams fan in Los Angeles. The Raiders have a following 10x the size. I feel strongly that the Carson proposal is what the NFL has been waiting for and cant wait to attend a game on the STL Riverfront!
by ST. Louis Rams Fan in LA 3:14 PM

Interesting. I recall reading something in the past month or so _ a survey about which team fans in the LA area fans would rather have back, and that Raiders were the landslide winner. Did you see anything like that?
by jthomas 3:16 PM

Has a city ever lost an NFL team with a viable stadium proposal? Also when LA lost the Rams was there any movement in LA for a new stadium? I hear LA fans say all the time that if Kroenke moves the team back to LA its payback but from what I know it sounds like LA didn’t bring much to the table for a solution.
by InPeacockWeTrust 3:16 PM

My answers to your questions are No and No.
by jthomas 3:17 PM

With teams foolishly always reaching for quarterbacks, do you feel Hundley make out of the 1st round? Which team is most likely to throw the dice on him?
by ClevelandGary 3:17 PM

I guess it’s possible Hundley goes in late first. But I think second round is more likely. There are a lot of QB needed teams, so I can’t give you a specific team.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

Hundley or Petty? Love Petty’s arm & he looks like he has that “it” factor to me.. Your thoughts on them both…
by james 3:19 PM

I think I like Petty a little bit more. Although Hundley is growing on me. Hundley gives you more on the mobility scale although Petty is no statue. I think the both have leadership potential, although I give a slight edge to Petty based on what I’ve read and observed first-hand. I think Petty’s probably a little bit more accurate.
by jthomas 3:21 PM

If the Chargers and Raiders share a stadium, would the NFL keep them in the same division and/or conference? I suggest switching the Rams and Raiders, giving the Rams something they do not have – a natural regional rivalry.
by Kenney 3:21 PM

I think FOX (NFC) and CBS (AFC) would both want a TV crack at the LA market. So I would think one of them would end up in the NFC.
by jthomas 3:22 PM

Jim-thanks for the chat’s-1st time poster here. Based on last years performance, I am convinced that the Rams can go deep next year w/a top FA QB. If Bradford doesn’t agree to reduced salary. It seems astonishing that the Rams would consider a QB that is Injury prone and likely nowhere near has the ability to preform an entire year. At this point “Why take a chance”? Get a FA QB.
by Randy 3:22 PM

Fine in theory, Randy. But have you looked at the free-agent list. Not much there. Hoyer? Ponder? McCoy? Here’s a link to the 22 UFA QBs.
Free-agent quarterback options for 2015 : Sports
stltoday.comThere are 22 NFL quarterbacks scheduled for unrestricted free agency, according to the NFL Players Association.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

Bradford may really want to stay, if so agent better walk lightly, something better than nothing. Agree?
by Don 3:25 PM

I think Bradford does want to stay.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

What round do we take a QB?
by BJH 3:25 PM

Gotta be second round.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

JT- thanks for the chats! Regarding the stadium proposal: The stadium doesn’t happen without monies from the Rams and the NFL (G-4 funds). With the Peacock/Bliss efforts moving forward, at what point does it put the ball in the Rams court, so to speak, to say In or Out?
by Jim S 3:26 PM

Whenever all the other financing is in place.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Mentioning Kaep, I’m not sure he will ever be relivent again, you?
by Don 3:27 PM

I don’t think he was terrible last year _ just not up to past standards.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Follow up on the Bradford question: the Rams and Fisher have been loyal (to a fault). He’s already got a big boat load of money and doesn’t seem to be an extravagant guy. Does he fire his agent? He seems like he would want a season to get it right with the Rams and then see what happens on the market in 2016. Unless… he knows now the injury isn’t right and this really is a money grab.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:28 PM

Don’t think this is a money grab. Don’t think Sam needs to fire his agent _ Tom Condon is among the best in the business. Still time to work this out.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

Draft Hundley in the 3rd round?
by BigDave Wave 3:28 PM

I think that probably would be too late.
by jthomas 3:29 PM

I have heard rumors that we are looking at linebacks, possibly an outside linebacker instead of Jo Lonn or a future backup for JL. Any prospects in this draft?
by jjenkslockdown 3:29 PM

Yeah, I think there’s some pretty good prospects in this draft. And linebacker, as I alluded to earlier, could be a position the team addresses earlier rather than later in the draft.
by jthomas 3:30 PM

Jim, I participated in the survey that the NFL sent out, and as it goes thru the survey it starts asking about PSL’s and how much it would basically cost to have my current seats in the new stadium. I would owe 12000$ for my 2 seats just in PSL costs alone. Have you heard from anyone else regarding this issue. Obviously I like the rams and I like football but I can think of a lot better things to do with 12k. I’m worried its going to get to the point where most middle income season ticket holders will be phased out.
by BJH 3:30 PM

I’ve heard from one season ticket holder who in his survey response said he has no problem paying a PSL if it’s for a reasonable price. As to what this person deems reasonable, I don’t know. I’ve seen a copy of the survey, and it certainly looks like its gauging interest in St. Louis in PSLs, among other things. If there’s low interest in the survey responses, wonder how that effects the league perception of the interest level in St. Louis. St. Louis by the way would be the only NFL city ever to have to pay for PSLs twice.
by jthomas 3:35 PM

Bernie’s rather convoluted idea about Kroeneke and the Denver Broncos, what do you think about it? Seems like it would make everybody happy, except maybe John Elway. If the family has to sell anyway, why not? Gets Kroeneke out of St. Louis and solves the cross ownership issue at the same time.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:35 PM

I know it’s kind of a back burner thing, but I’m not discounting the Denver possibility one bit.
by jthomas 3:36 PM

Has their been any rumblings about the Rams and which FA they might target? I haven’t heard anybody linked to Rams that’s from outside the organization
by BJH 3:36 PM

Still a little bit early for that.
by jthomas 3:36 PM

JT, I’m familiar w. your sense of the Rams’ view of taking a 1st round WR this year due to other needs. However, upon some reflection, it just seems that year after year they’ve led with OL, DL. Maybe we really do need a bona fide No. 1 WR. Something electrifying for a change. With no disrespect to T. Austin, I just don’t see him that category of big-time WR’s. But at some point, I have to wonder if even you don’t start don’t even you think that’s what this club needs…
by MJ 3:37 PM

The Rams have invested heavily in the draft in WRs: Tavon Austin went high in the 1st round; Brian Quick was the first pick of the 2nd round; Stedman Bailey Round 3; and Chris Givens Round 4. This has all come in the first three drafts of Fisher-Snead. So it’s not like they’ve ignored the position. And with the possible exception of Givens, I don’t think the Rams are ready to give up on any of those guys. They don’t feel like they need a bona fide No. 1, and will point to the Patriots’ and Seahawks’ WR corps to prove their point. I’m not necessarily saying they’re right, or that I agree with them. But that’s their approach.
by jthomas 3:41 PM

With the sudden rush of 3 teams to Southern California, I find it difficult to believe that the league (NFL), being a multi-billion dollar enterprise, isn’t just a bystander watching things happen. It would appear that recent events are being orchestrated either by the league or with its consent and approval. Not a conspiracy theorist, just hard to believe that the NFL would be surprised or not intimately involved with the two competing stadium proposals submitted by 3 teams vying for the same piece of real estate. Just wondering how you view the situation.
by Al Davis 3:41 PM

I think the NFL has been kept abreast of all these developments. It’s always good to have options if you’re the NFL.
by jthomas 3:42 PM

do you think that if White or Cooper are still there at # 10 that the Chiefs would trade with the Rams to move up. Would a 2nd or 3rd round pick be adequate compensation for moving up 8 places.
by ramsfan 3:42 PM

I think it would have to be a first-rounder and then some.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

Being a chargers fan from San Diego it’s going to be interesting to play out. I haven’t really followed the situation in stl. The chargers have said they wanna stay in San Diego but they haven’t tried to stay in San Diego the last 9 months they’ve been working on Carson. I think Stan Kroenke has a better case to move because hes actually negotiated in good faith. I do remember a couple years ago stl had a chance to keep them in arbitration.
by Kevin 3:44 PM

If you think Stan Kroenke has negotiated in good faith in St. Louis, you really haven’t been paying attention to the situation here. The arbitration was a mandated part of the process. It just so happened that the city of St. Louis lost in arbitration. Other than order up some architectural renderings of the Rams’ proposed renovation project, Stan merely had to sit back and let the process unfold. I think that falls well short of active negotiating in good faith. He’s done virtually nothing on that front.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

Also, all his crazy athletic feats, and that hang-clean video, remind me that Justin Veltung can been seen on YouTube jumping on top of boxes stacked as high as his head. Just a word of caution, I guess.
by c_good 3:48 PM

I get your point. And the Rams always seen to be taken in by the stop watch and tape measure, placing a high emphasis on projection. So they could be looking for a more athletic sort on the line. But I think toughness and durability should count for something.
by jthomas 3:50 PM

Seems like Bernie is right to point out that there are many stadium/team/city/owner/Krownke-satisfaction-level scenarios that could play out. When’s the last time things were this crazy and up-in-the-air for this many NFL teams?
by c_good 3:51 PM

I’d say not since expansion and its aftermath in the early and mid ’90s.
by jthomas 3:51 PM

Took the survey yesterday. Very interesting. I think out of 183,000 we should be able to come up with 64, 000 psl. Have you seen it and what are your thoughts.
by ramsfan 3:51 PM

Yeah, I glanced at it for a while before the chat. Man, lots of questions. And not just about the Rams, but where the Rams rank in the pecking order of fan interest (with Cardinals, Blues, and area/regional college teams.). What the fans like or don’t like about the Edward Jones Dome. But I think at it’s heart, it’s trying to gauge interest in the possible PSL market.
by jthomas 3:54 PM

Jim, I think you’re right that there’s no way Mariota makes it to 10. But in any other draft year, do you think he’d be a 2nd rounder? I saw him play vs. Stanford in ’13 and not look all that great. How do you think he and Winston compare to QBs coming out in other years? Looks like they’re lesser than Luck and RGIII coming out, but where do you put them? In the Gabbert/Locker/Claussen/Barkley category?
by c_good 3:54 PM

They’re obviously below the Luck/RGIII level coming out. But I’d put them above Gabbert/Locker/Claussen/Barkley. For example, I was surprised that Gabbert and Locker went as high as they did, the year they came out.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

Nick Wagoner had a piece today where Snead, speaking about Jake Long, was quoted saying “you want that human being on the football team.” If you couple that with the obvious high regard Snead/Fisher have for Bradford’s character, it makes you wonder if they are building a team around “good clubhouse guys” at the expense of putting legit talent on the football field?
by Tackleberry 3:57 PM

Again, I doubt that Jake Long comes back.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

Hi Jim What is your opinion of Bryce Petty?
by BigDave Wave 3:57 PM

Like him. As I mentioned earlier, Hundley is growing on me, but I still like Petty best among the “second-tier” guys. I see Petty as accurate, smart, highly competitive, and high on the intangibles. He doesn’t have a cannon, but I think he’s got more than enough arm strength to make the throws. There will be a learning curve, however, to the pro-style offense. Not sure how much help he could be to a team as a rookie.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Why is Philly so anxious to get rid of Folk?
by BigDave Wave 4:00 PM

I don’t think they are. Usually when you hear rumors like that in January, there’s nothing to them.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

I think Amari, Mr. White and Mr. Scherff will be gone when we pick at 10. If that’s the case I’d like to see us trade back get an extra pick and and then draft OT TJ Clemmings to start at RT and let Barksdale walk. Did the Rams show much interest in Clemmings?
by 76hitter 4:01 PM

Don’t know how much interest the Rams showed in Clemmings at the Combine. Do you like him better than Collins of LSU?
by jthomas 4:02 PM

Would the Rams tag Barksdale in hopes of working out a longer-term deal or to avoid having to fill his position for at least one year?
by Tackleberry 4:02 PM

Can’t see it. The franchise tag was about $11.7 last year for offensive linemen; it’s projected to go up about $1 million from that this year.
by jthomas 4:10 PM

Has the new qb coach worked at IMG with any of the quarterbacks in this years draft.
by ramsfan 4:10 PM

That’s a good question. Rams are supposed to make him available to us this week. It’ll try to ask.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

‘Greg the Leg’ going to face competition in camp this year or everyone is calmed down and has full faith again?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 4:11 PM

A camp leg if anything, I’d say.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

Here is my theory. Stan wants a new stadium in STL. Roger allowed him to announce his LA plan while knowing SD and OAK had a plan; this allows Stan to leverage STL into a new stadium and keep everyone happy. How crazy am I?
by TEX 4:12 PM

Crazy. Stan wants to move to LA.
by jthomas 4:12 PM

Hi MR. Thomas,Why don’t the Rams scout the CFL more it seems other teams do and sign players from the CFL. Thanks! COLArt
by Colart 4:12 PM

That’s a good question. I don’t think they’re less active in scouting the CFL. But I’ll try to check on it.
by jthomas 4:13 PM

there’s a lot of talk that the rams should trade up for a qb, how about a trade down to collect the picks they lost? you say anything is possible with this regime
by noob 4:13 PM

The Rams are at the stage now, where they don’t really need a lot of bodies. They need quality players at need positions.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

Sure, no one likes to take a pay cut but Bradford’s been compensated well the last two seasons for not being on the field a whole lot. The guy is damaged goods…and he’s still the best chance the Rams have of fielding a winner. I think the Rams end up eating this one and paying him. That said, does that mean Long and Langford are goners? Also, am I the only one who thinks E.J Gaines looked better than Jenkins? Do we get any substantial savings for cutting Jenkins loose?
by boleil 4:16 PM

I’ll answer your last question. I do think Gaines was more consistent certainly than Jenkins. But I think the staff really likes him. Cutting Jenkins before the 2015 season saves a little less than $1 million. As a second-rounder still on his rookie contract, he wasn’t making a ton of money.
by jthomas 4:18 PM

Stan bought the land in California from Walmart. That’s like me buying my wife’s pots and pans in our kitchen. How much has Stan really spent so far in LA so far?
by wayunderdog 4:19 PM

True.
by jthomas 4:19 PM

My understanding JT that the real reason Stan wants to move to Los Angeles is Forbes magazine has the Rams currently at #32 in value and a move to LA moves them up to #15 in value. Is is possible Stan has the mindset to sell the team after relocation?
by Ed Johnson 4:19 PM

No. Don’t think so.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

ESPN just reported that the Bills are interested in Bradford as well
by PKF 4:20 PM

Didn’t see that. But I’m sure several teams will kick the tires on Bradford.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

Barrett Jones = BUST????
by Pville Steve 4:20 PM

We’ll have a pretty good idea by next year at this time.
by jthomas 4:21 PM

when is your first mock draft going to be out?
by noob 4:21 PM

I think Sunday March 8 is the target date.
by jthomas 4:21 PM

Do you think that the NFL letting the fan bases of three franchises get thrown under the bus is a good idea for the league longterm? Do you think the league would show more interests if the three cities effected were larger media markets?
by Thad 4:22 PM

Interesting thought. The league is all about getting new stadiums built and getting a team or two in LA.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

I had a PLS for 19 years and I get the Rams newsletter and snail mail. But they didn’t send me the survey. I’d be interested in a PSL if they want my survey opinion. How many others have been left out? I don’t think you can compare PSL interest straight up with LA, since they have been teamless and will take anyone, and we’ve had 10 years of failure, that should turn around. Then Rams interest here will skyrocket.
by zgare 4:23 PM

Gee, I can’t believe they left you off the list. If you don’t get an e-mail in the next few days maybe you should contact the Rams or the league.
by jthomas 4:24 PM

The way you describe Petty, he is a lot like Bradford when he came out?
by Carolina Ram 4:24 PM

As a Heisman winner, Bradford had more notoriety. Petty is more outgoing.
by jthomas 4:25 PM

if the rams cut long and barksdale leaves for greener pastures will the rams with almost 99% certainty take an o-lineman with their first pick?
by noob 4:25 PM

Can’t say that for sure, because there’s always free agency.
by jthomas 4:25 PM

Do you think that Stan Kroenke is intentionally trying to look like Snidely Whiplash, or is it just a coincidence?
by Thad 4:25 PM

It’s simply the way he does business. He has never gotten the point that owning a sports team is a public trust. It’s not like running a private business.
by jthomas 4:26 PM

As much as I am worried they will move (though I’m more positive at 50/50), I think it is a great time to be Stan Kroenke right now. Sure, most of STL hates you, but he can’t lose with the NFL. Either he will move and his team gains triple the value, he stays here and would get a new stadium, or he buys the Broncos, gets a top team with a nice stadium and loses cross ownership problems. He also still has a nice new STL stadium to sell new Rams owners on for a nice profit.
by Former PSL Holder 4:27 PM

That’s one way of looking at it.
by jthomas 4:27 PM

How does the salary cap work in terms of signing players that put you over the Cap limit? Does the team get a grace period to get under the cap, does it have be under by season’s open, or do they get penalized immediately for being over?
by ClevelandGary 4:28 PM

Teams have to be under the salary cap by March 10, or the start of the free agency/trading period _ aka the “league year.” Now on March 10 it’s the top 51 salaries (actually, the top 51’s cap counts) that must fit under the cap. Once the cut is made to the 53-man roster before the start off the regular season, then it’s the top 53 that must fit under the cap. The logic behind having only the top 51 count against the cap once the league year starts is that usually it’s not your 53-highest paid players who necessarily make the team. So it gives the teams a little bit of leeway in the offseason/preseason.
by jthomas 4:33 PM

would the PSL,s go for funding the stadium or to the owner as was the case the last time.
by ramsfan 4:33 PM

PSL money is being used to help finance the stadium.
by jthomas 4:34 PM

What is the date that the Rams can begin to restructure or cut players to save cap for next year?
by bdefreitas20390 4:35 PM

They can restructure players at any time. I believe the date was Feb. 2, when he waiver system began.
by jthomas 4:35 PM

Is this NFL survey normal for cities building a stadium? Never heard of its occurrence before. Not trying to be unnecessarily cynical, I just hope it’s not some sort of canvass designed to help clear the way or provide justification for Silent Stan to split..
by MJ 4:36 PM

Yeah, I think it’s normal these days for cities building stadiums.
by jthomas 4:36 PM

Bradford and Stedman Bailey were looking really good in training camp last year weren’t they? Have to think if Sam and Quick are back and healthy for the full year, along with Bailey and Britt, the WR squad won’t be too bad right?
by Ryan 4:36 PM

I think you’re right.
by jthomas 4:37 PM