JT chat

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_47?Page=2

Was Schiller signed in reponse to Dunbar’s “incident”? How are the injured players recovering?
by dankelly60 2:02 PM

Don’t think so. I think since the end of the OTAs in June, the Rams felt they were light one body at LB. Schillar, who has yet to play in an NFL regular-season game, has a chance to be that body.
by jthomas 2:04 Pm

Will TJ Moe be a Ram in September?
by steve r 2:04 Pm

With a strong camp and preseason, I think he has a chance. Especially with Bailey suspended for the first 4 games.
by jthomas 2:04 Pm

JT – why did the NFL not give the Rams the 3M salary cap credit from the finnegan deal until 2015?
by Caleb2007 2:05 Pm

To be honest, I was given an explanation in June and didn’t totally understand it. It might have something to do with Finnegan making the 53-man roster. In any event, the Rams disagreed with the league’s assessment, but they can get by without the money this year. And they’ll have even more space entering the next offseason.
by jthomas 2:07 Pm

How will Jake Long be for the first game of the regular season?
by steve r 2:07 Pm

The Rams seem confident he’ll be ready. He was moving around pretty well working on the side during the OTAs last month. But even now, we’re still a long way from the start of the regular season. The first step will be to see how much Long practices during the early days of camp.
by jthomas 2:09 Pm

Is JLD at practice today? Is he in as much trouble as PED deal last year?
by Caleb2007 2:09 Pm

Just rookies at practice today. Don’t think he’s in as much trouble as last year. One key issue is that he was not charged with battery, a possible felony, as was originally reported. He was just charged with disorderly conduct/breach of the peace, which is the misdemeanor.
by jthomas 2:12 Pm

Thanks for the chats, JT…….Don’t you think Dungee’s remarks re SAM are something of a tempest in a teapot? After all, 31 other teams passed on him for similar reasons, without stating it aloud.
by Knux 2:12 Pm

Agreed. Especially since Dungy released a statement less than a hour ago clarifying his remarks. He said the actually interview took place a couple of months ago when it appeared that Sam was taking part in the Oprah network reality show. I think everyone thought it was a distraction at that time, including Jeff Fisher who put an end _ at least temporarily _ to the show.
by jthomas 2:15 Pm

Sam is going to make the team, otherwise why did we draft him? We knew the media that would come with it. Who cares if he plays d-line and might be terrible, we already have a lot of terrible d-lineman and it has never stopped us from keeping them before.
by Scott 2:15 Pm

Actually, the Rams have one of the strongest defensive end units in the league. Not just starters Chris Long and Robert Quinn, but backups William Hayes and Eugene Sims. Hayes could start for a lot of teams in the league. So I think barring injury, that’s four DEs who make the final 53. Sam stays if the Rams keep 5 DEs, which is no sure thing although Fisher does like collecting D-lionemen.
by jthomas 2:17 Pm

Jim, good to have you back, boy, I’ll tell you, from the time of the last day of OTA’s until now, it is a ghost town for NFL news. At least we had the world cup filling in the space. With that said, do you think Ray Ray has a decent shot at the starting LB role over Dunbar? I love his aggressiveness. your thoughts
by ekern55 2:17 Pm

Long before Dunbar’s “fun at South Beach” _ this figured to be one of the most interesting battles of training camp. We’ll see.
by jthomas 2:18 Pm

Hey Jim,(I know he is not at camp) how is Kenny Britt seem to be getting along with other players and the Ram culture. I am excited to see him on the team, and I am sure Bradford will love him.
by gcb 2:18 Pm

From what I can tell, so far so good. During the OTAs, his teammates seemed to appreciate his energy on the field.
by jthomas 2:19 Pm

Jim – Do you think it’s possible that at least one opening day starter at safety isn’t currently a member of the squad?
by McGarrett 2:19 Pm

Wouldn’t entirely rule it out.
by jthomas 2:19 Pm

Jim-in your opinion, does Slingin’ Sam look healthy and ready to go? Or is he still taking baby steps to get back into the swing of things?
by Bopat from SoCal 2:19 Pm

He had one of his best practices _ at least those open to the media _ on the final day of OTAs (June 19). Bradford threw the ball very well, was anticipating his throws, and seemed comfortable moving around in the pocket.
by jthomas 2:20 Pm

Jim. Any word on season ticket sales yet?
by dj101 2:21 Pm

From what I’ve heard, sales are going OK. But just OK.
by jthomas 2:21 Pm

Do Britt and Quick both make the roster? When do they accept Pead is a bust?
by TheLou 2:21 Pm

Believe so on Britt and Quick. As for Pead, I’m wondering that myself.
by jthomas 2:21 Pm

Will Tavon be returning kickoffs this year, or just punts?
by John 2:21 Pm

I think the Rams would prefer to have him just return punts.
by jthomas 2:22 Pm

Jim – will FS Mo Ax challange for job out of ehe gates or will injury issues hold him back from making an impact?
by TheLou 2:22 Pm

I’ve kind of underreported it but Alexander missed almost all of the spring with knee surgery. That lost will make it more difficult to compete for playing time unless he’s able to step right in during training camp and pick up the defensive playbook quickly.
by jthomas 2:24 Pm

On paper, are we still the 4th best team in the West?
by willEYEam 2:26 Pm

I think third best, ahead of Arizona. (especially w/Dansby gone and D. Washington in trouble).
by jthomas 2:27 Pm

is tre mason really that good or peads that bad?
by roc 2:27 Pm

We’ll see. But I think Mason can be pretty good. As for Pead, I’m just not seeing after 2 years in the league.
by jthomas 2:28 Pm

Jim–do you think DC Williams will be closely monitored by the league this season now that he has returned to the sidelines?
by Bopat from SoCal 2:28 Pm

That’s a good question. But he was in the league last year with Tennessee, and I don’t think we was “monitored” there.
by jthomas 2:28 Pm

What do you think about Austin’s comments about last year’s playbook being in “Spanish”? Maybe the coaching staff was afraid to turn him loose because he didn’t what he was doing.
by bear 2:29 Pm

There’s no doubt he didn’t have a full understanding off the scheme right away. Austin did get the ball a lot in the early going of 2013. But the Rams could’ve been hesitant to use him in some different ways because of this.
by jthomas 2:30 Pm

Based upon jersey sales and media attention. Michael Sam is probably the rams most well known player. For a team that lacks media attention, is unable to sell tickets, etc. How can they afford to cut Sam?
by Mike 2:30 Pm

I don’t think drafting Sam is going to lead to packed houses at the dome, although drafting him might have sold some tix. Winning is always the best way to sell tickets and get attention.
by jthomas 2:32 Pm

I think Bailey has great hands and he’s tough. Because of his suspension, is there a chance he may not make the team?
by gcb 2:32 Pm

No. He’ll make the team. I think he would’ve been an opening-day starter were it not for the suspension.
by jthomas 2:33 Pm

how is robinson coming along? if this guy anything like he was in college our run game should be dominate!
by roc 2:33 Pm

It will fun to see Robinson out there in the training camp setting, especially on the days they put on pads.
by jthomas 2:34 Pm

How comfortable is Schottys seat heading into the season?
by willEYEam 2:34 Pm

At this point, I don’t think Fisher is down on Schottenheimer.
by jthomas 2:34 Pm

You and Nick Wagoner seem to be the only reliable sources for Rams info, most fan sites/blogs border on insanity. How do you seperate hope from hype? Is this team a playoff contender?
by TheLou 2:35 Pm

From Nick and I _thank you from that. You try to separate hope from hype by watching the team everyday and in part, trusting your instincts. I think the Rams can be playoff contenders if they stay healthy, several of the young players improve, and they get off to a relatively good start.
by jthomas 2:36 Pm

Pre camp parade meter been set yet?
by willEYEam 2:37 Pm

Parade meter still set at 9 victories entering camp.
by jthomas 2:37 Pm

Do you think there’s any chance we only keep 3 RB’s this year?
by Dave Fan Sense 1951 2:37 Pm

Not unlike defensive linemen, Fisher likes to collect RBs. So I’d say most likely four _ and that’s not including special teamer Chase Reynolds.
by jthomas 2:38 Pm

What are your thoughts on Goodell saying that there are things quickly moving in LA for an NFL Franchise?
by DaRams 2:38 Pm

I don’t think there’s much going on in LA. As usual. I think he’s trying to pimp some interest there in terms of getting a stadium built.
by jthomas 2:39 Pm

Hi Jim. Do you think the Rams see G. Robinson as a guard or a tackle or maybe both?
by moose 2:39 Pm

The plan is to have him play guard this year, but I think eventually he’ll be at tackle.
by jthomas 2:40 Pm

Stan still won’t speak? Guy could care less about St. Louis fans. Strange guy.
by Keith 2:40 Pm

All I can say is that I’m working on that _ and continue to work on that.
by jthomas 2:40 Pm

Any chances Rams/Raiders do a deal to share a new stadium ala NYG/NYJ? Sounds like an option to be worried about if you like STL Rams.
by TheLou 2:41 Pm

And so the Raiders then move to LA? Don’t think that’s happening. Don’t think the league is going to do any favors for the Raiders.
by jthomas 2:42 Pm

How has Bradford’s mobility looked? Also, do you think he will be antsy in the pocket to protect against hits because of all the injuries?
by HammyRammy 2:42 Pm

Sorry, brief delay to say hello to Dan “Chief” Linza, now retired, but longtime Rams security chief, who dropped into Rams Park today. Bradford’s mobility looked pretty good last month during OTAs. We’ll see what camp brings when the vets start practicing Friday. You’re second one is a good one, and one that can be answered only once the games start.
by jthomas 2:52 Pm

Jim Quinn has stated that one of his goals this season is to get “27 Sacks”! what do you think his chances are?
by DaveFanSince1951 2:52 Pm

Let’s just say that’s a very ambitious goal.
by jthomas 2:53 Pm

Jim-Was the play calling by Walton anything to do with the defensive back’s struggles from last year,ie giving recievers a 10 yard cushion ?
by stuart2665 2:53 Pm

Possibly. But really the Rams played a lot of off coverage in 2012 as well under Blake Williams _ Gregg’s son.
by jthomas 2:54 Pm

Having watched pro football for over four decades, it appears to me that offensive line holding goes on during every play. I thought I heard one of the talking heads once comment that OL holding is only called if it effects the play. Excuse me if I find that explanation more than a little dumbfounding. Quinn got held plenty during games in Seattle and SF but no flags. How is this explained?
by ConestogaCal 2:55 Pm

I think, in fact, you could call holding on every play if you wanted to. I know it’s a fast-moving game for the refs to call, but often it seems to me there is no rhyme or reason what’s called holding and what isn’t.
by jthomas 2:56 Pm

Will Quinn likely see decline in production as teams shift to stop him? Rest of DEF should benefit from extra attention on him.
by TheLou 2:56 Pm

I think you’ve answered your own question. If Quinn gets extra attention, and he undoubtedly should, there are plenty of other players in the front 7 capable of getting to the QB.
by jthomas 2:57 Pm

OK so don’t you think with the pass rus we have we should be playing more press?
by stuart2665 2:57 Pm

I do think the Rams should play more press.
by jthomas 2:57 Pm

Who is the odd man out at receiver this year? I like Pettis but Bailey seems to be the same type of player.
by wonderboy 2:58 Pm

Of the top 6, I think Pettis will be facing the longest odds of making the final roster.
by jthomas 2:59 Pm

It’s JL55 still the best lb on the team or has Ogletree surpassed him?
by willEYEam 2:59 Pm

I think it’s still JL55.
by jthomas 2:59 Pm

Does the superbowl show that pocket passers arent going to beat SEA/SF type teams? If Manning and 5 good recievers can’t beat them, how can SB and 5 average guys?
by TheLou 3:00 Pm

Well, Flacco _ a pocket passer _ did beat Kaepernick in Baltimore’s Super Bowl victory over San Francisco. And I really think the defenses from SF and Seattle has had more to do with their recent success than the 49ers’ and Seahawks’ quarterback play.
by jthomas 3:01 Pm

Jim last year Rams safeties only accounted for “1” sack all season, by my count, so I’m predicting that they will get 6+ under Williams. What do you think?
by DaveFanSince1951 3:02 Pm

I like your thinking.
by jthomas 3:02 Pm

Jim, what can a fan do, to get Kronke to speak? Boycott the games and gives him more ammunition to move, blast him in the media doesn’t seem to do the trick. If he is too busy to run an NFL team maybe he should sell. Yes I know it’s his team, but the name has St. Louis in front of it and we feel we have some ownership in the Rams also. All we are asking is say something.
by James 3:02 Pm

Believe me, you are preaching to the choir.
by jthomas 3:02 Pm

You gotta like the inside strength of the Rams Dline and the speed, strength and quickness from the DE position. It seems to me that the only area available to an opponent is with quick passes and to defend those would require more press. Is this team capable of playing press coverage effectively?
by ConestogaCal 3:03 Pm

In terms of their physical attributes, I think Jenkins and T. Johnson are very capable of press coverage. The problem is doing it properly. If you get beat on press coverage at the line of scrimmage, it can lead to a big play. That’s what happened to Jenkins on that long TD catch by Golden Tate in the second Seattle game last season.
by jthomas 3:08 Pm

What did you think of Peter Kings #10 ranking of Rams versus ESPN ranking at #20? Are Rams a darkhorse this year or next?
by Caleb2007 3:09 Pm

Have a lot of respect for Peter, so it’s interesting that he thinks so highly of the team. I think the Rams are better than No. 20. Team could be darkhorse. I don’t think I’m sipping the Kool-Aid, but I am a little thirsty.
by jthomas 3:10 Pm

CNNSI – “St. Louis. Might not show up in the record, but the Rams are going to be hell to play, and they’ll be a playoff team if Sam Bradford plays the way he was drafted to play”
by Caleb2007 3:10 Pm

For those who didn’t see it, these were Peter King’s remarks in making the Rams No. 10 in his preseason power rankings.
by jthomas 3:11 Pm

Since Ray-Ray is going to be competing for starting playing time, who do you think will step up on ST in his absence? Lots of talk around Michael Sam, but the skill sets are different.
by ASinger 3:11 Pm

If the Boom King (Armstrong) beats out Dunbar, he can still take full part in special teams because the strongside LB starter takes part in only about 35-40 percent of the plays.
by jthomas 3:12 Pm

If you had to guess, barring injury, is Michael Sam a ram, on another team, or in the cfl come week one?
by willEYEam 3:12 Pm

I’d say 55 to 45 he’s a Ram.
by jthomas 3:12 Pm

How much of OG Robinson’s “struggles” are ust a rookie trying to adjust to NFL? Isnt this pick about having a good OG now and potential great OT-OG down the line?
by Caleb2007 3:12 Pm

Well stated. Robinson’s “struggles” are learning the pass protection schemes from what I’m told. As you may recall, Auburn didn’t pass the ball much.
by jthomas 3:14 Pm

Jim Do you have any one special unit or player you want to focus on in Camp?
by Dave Fan Sense 1951 3:14 Pm

Not really. From my perspective and how I have to cover the team, there’s a lot to watch at basically every position.
by jthomas 3:15 Pm

JT – I am pumped for this season, especially on the defensive side. Bring me back to reality. Will we be a top 10 defense this year? Top 5?
by Rick S. 3:15 Pm

I’m gonna say about No. 12 in total defense.
by jthomas 3:15 Pm

Greg “Bounty-gate” Williams and Jeff “Felony” Fisher have to be excited by the fight that Dunbar showed off. No doubt he is ready to punch somebody in the head for a 5 yard penalty after stopping them 4 yards short on 3rd down. Go RAMS!!!!
by Scott 3:16 Pm

Our sarcasm award of the day goes to Scott.
by jthomas 3:16 Pm

And how did Jim spend his summer vacation?
by Dave in Kirkwood 3:16 Pm

So glad you asked. Helped Army 2nd Lt. John Thomas (82nd Airborne) move from Ft. Lee, Va., to Ft. Bragg, N.C. Visited Army Capt. Thomas (field artillery) in Ft. Sill, Okla. And caught part of youngest son Roger Thomas’ tour with the rock band The Few in Washington, D.C., and Chicago. (He’s the drummer.)
by jthomas 3:19 Pm

Would you know why Lamarcus Joyner’s jersey is not available in the online team store? I’m an FSU fan and he is going to be a treat to watch. What are your thoughts on him this coming year? Over/under at 2.5 sacks for him. I’m taking the over.
by gornicz88 3:20 Pm

I don’t know what to tell you on he jersey. Maybe someone from the Rams will read this and get back to me. I think Joyner is an excellent addition to the defense. I’ll take the over as well.
by jthomas 3:21 Pm

Can Bradford and Palmer (pocket passers) compete with Kap and Wilson (mobile)?
by TheLou 3:21 Pm

Sure. Palmer certainly did last season.
by jthomas 3:22 Pm

Jim – veteran Ram most in danger of not making the 53?
by TheLou 3:23 Pm

First off, there aren’t many veterans on this team. I don’t think Dunbar’s charges are serious enough, plus the Rams are a little light at linebacker anyway. Perhaps Wells, if he runs into preseason injuries problems and the youngsters (particularly Barrett Jones progress). And maybe Britt if he falls off the map in camp/preseason or encounters off-field issues.
by jthomas 3:26 Pm

Other than the known rehab from the ACL injuries suffered by J Long and Bradford, are any other Rams on the mend from off season surgeries?
by Knux 3:27 Pm

William Hayes and rookie Mo Alexander come to mind immediately, and I might be missing another one or two. But I think Hayes and Alexander are supposed to be ready for camp.
by jthomas 3:28 Pm

I like what the Rams are doing lately. Beefing up both lines and focusing on defense. When they come back home we can draft some legitimate offensive players to complete the package and sell the PSLs. Thanks Guys.
by Todd in LA 3:29 Pm

Oh, do you mean Cleveland? The franchise began as the Cleveland Rams in 1937.
by jthomas 3:29 Pm

Already chatter about Watkins in Buffalo, did Rams miss chance at #1 WR? Do they think they need one in Schotty’s offense?
by TheLou 3:29 Pm

Yeah, I think Watkins is going to be a good one. The Rams have said repeatedl they don’t need a No. 1. We’ll see. Players win games. But difference-makers win championships.
by jthomas 3:30 Pm

How much progress are you expecting from Janoris this year? Seemed to take a bit of a step back last season.
by John 3:31 Pm

Needs to clean up technique and do a better job tracking the deep ball.
by jthomas 3:31 Pm

How realistic is for Britt and Quick to be the starting Outside WR’s with Givens as the slot and Austin used in multiple sets, and would that configuration be the best possible option at WR
by stlfilmmaker 3:32 Pm

The Rams are going to use a lot of different WR formations. I think you’ll see some combos with Britt and Quick both out there, but don’t think we’ll see them starting.
by jthomas 3:34 Pm

Do you see StacedGod being pushed for starter by Tre Mason?
by HammyRammy 3:34 Pm

Quite possible. And don’t sleep on Cunningham either.
by jthomas 3:34 Pm

Are the rams high on the list bound for LA.
by Gus 3:34 Pm

I don’t think much of anything is going on with LA. Believe me, I’m not ruling it out down the road at some point. But I just think it’s the same old noise right now. Remember last year, when Jerry Jones was talking about how LA was closer than ever to getting a team? Well, he was standing in Oxnard, Calif., in front of LA reporters and hoping to sell tons of Cowboys T-shirts and soft drinks to residents of the Golden State at the time. With that I’ll leave you a little early today with rookie practice looming. It’s good to be back, and talk to you all next Tuesday.
by jthomas 3:38 Pm