JT chat, 1/13

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_72?Page=5

Hey Jim. Any word on Bradford’s forthcoming contractual (or not) status?
by CenCalFan 2:13 PM

Nothing new at this point. And it could be a slow process.
by jthomas 2:14 PM

With ESPN reporting that the Chargers’ owner may sue to prevent Kroenke from moving the Rams to LA, can the city of St. Louis and Missouri also be able to sue and get a court order for the Rams not move in the event Kroenke decides to go rogue and leave? Would their be more or less leverage for the city and state if the NFL side with St. Louis and orders Kroenke to keep the Rams in St. Louis?
by Den 2:14 PM

Actually it wasn’t ESPN that reported that. It was the Sports Business Journal. But I’m not sure St. Louis and Missouri has any grounds for a lawsuit, unless they feel Kroenke is in clear violation of the relocation guidelines. (And even then I’m not sure if the region would have any legal standing.)
by jthomas 2:16 PM

What could Denver possibly be thinking?
by ihtnep 2:16 PM

You mean in parting ways with Fox? If so, that’s a puzzler. Does Fox know that Manning is leaving? Does Manning want a more wide-open offense? Lots of questions.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

If Stan offered St. Louis the balance remaining on the dome bonds in exchange for letting him leave, do you think they’d take it?
by ihtnep 2:17 PM

St. Louis doesn’t want the money. It wants the team.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

Hi Jim, Any word on the OC search?
by Cousin Vinny 2:18 PM

Slow go. I tweeted yesterday that Kyle Shanahan and Nathaniel Hackett are on the Rams’ radar, but don’t have interviews scheduled at this time. Talked to another potential candidate who had heard nothing.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

Jim, Do you think Fisher is feeling some pressure after 3 mediocre seasons?
by Cousin Vinny 2:20 PM

Yes
by jthomas 2:20 PM

What kind of timeframe/process are we looking at with the whole stadium issue? What’s next? Funding, negotiating with the Rams/nfl?
by Bob Ferapples 2:20 PM

According to Peacock, it’s putting together a strategy to accumulate the land, and then getting the land. By this May they want to have the site acquisition plan and overall site plan finalized; make sure the stadium and redevelopment plan meets NFL criteria, and have the NFL confirm that there is stadium funding (from what’s called it’s G4 fund available). That’s just one of several steps. They hop 3to break ground by 2017.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

What are the chances that the Rams stay? Give it to me straight Jim.
by Donnie 2:24 PM

I’m still at 45-55 they stay.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

My Father wasn’t an NFL coach, so I don’t have a famous family name. I’m a football genius, how should I go about being considered for any of the available coaching jobs?
by McMitch 2:24 PM

Put together a resume and track record that can’t be overlooked.
by jthomas 2:25 PM

Is it possible (I know its technically possible but more like realistic) that we know whether the Rams are leaving or staying by the start of next year?
by John 2:25 PM

Possible. If the league allows teams to relocate in 2016. I believe the window to file for relocation is between Jan. 1 and Feb. 15.
by jthomas 2:26 PM

So….you’re saying there’s a chance…YES!
by Donnie 2:26 PM

Certainly.
by jthomas 2:26 PM

JT, Is it J Long Barksdale or other as RT next season?
by OzyRamsFan 2:26 PM

To be determined. First off, let’s see if Barksdale stays or goes.
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Do new uniforms come with a new stadium? (Hopefully in StL)
by Kevin 2:27 PM

Not another uniform question!!!! I have nothing for you on this at this point. Absolutely nothing.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

Jim, what was the response In RAMS camp from the players about schotty leaving..
by Cousin Vinny 2:28 PM

Players are not around, so no reaction at this point.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

i think the offence is close.which ol men would you go after in the draft
by Lenn Perdomo 2:28 PM

QB and interior offensive line at this point. Obviously if Britt goes elsewhere, put WR on the list.
by jthomas 2:29 PM

Can you share some stats or work of Nathaniel Hackett I am not familiar whit his coaching work ?
by Kris 2:29 PM

Young (35), inexperienced. Some thought he as in over his head at Buffalo. Others thought he had some good ideas but shackled by the head coach (the now departed Doug Marrone). Was popular with players. Was a linebacker/long snapper in college at UC-Davis. Worked previously at UC-Davis, Stanford, and Syracuse in college ranks, and at Tampa Bay in pros.
by jthomas 2:33 PM

Hi Jim, So if Stan likes the plans of St.Louis ,what does he tell LA that he was just kidding or do both?
by Rick 2:33 PM

Don’t know how else I can put this: He wants to move the team.
by jthomas 2:34 PM

Could Kroenke “Major League” the 2015 season to stifle support here in StL to make the move easier to justify?
by Tom 2:34 PM

I don’t think the team will be traveling by bus next season. But reaching a stadium agreement in Calif. certainly figures to put a dent in attendance in 2015, and in that case it could become a self-fulfilling prophecy as the say in terms of fan support.
by jthomas 2:36 PM

If you had a choice would you rather have a legit #1 receiver or a true shut-down corner? (if you could only choose 1)
by Ken P 2:36 PM

Legit No.1 receiver.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

But Nathaniel Hackett is no Adam Gase. Is he on the prospective O.C. list, or is he likely to get a head coaching job?
by questioner 2:37 PM

Hackett or Gase?
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Shottenheimer…Hackett…Shanahan… Does Martz have any kids in coaching?
by Tom 2:37 PM

Don’t think so.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

The Rams will be tight against the cap next season potential players to be cut in your opinion (Langford,Wells,Long) ?
by Kris 2:38 PM

Rams will not be tight against the cap next season.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

Jim, why should St. Louis fight for the Rams if Stan wants to leave? Do we want an owner that doesn’t want to be here.
by Keith 2:38 PM

When you go to a game, if you go to games, are you rooting for the owner or the team on the field?
by jthomas 2:39 PM

Do you feel with Mark Barron in G. Williams defense now there is less urgency to draft an OLB?
by Ken P 2:39 PM

Barron is only under contract for one more year, so I think if the Rams feel OLB is a need, they probably should draft one.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

How likely is it that Stan sells the Rams and buys an expansion team to outin LA?
by WillEYEam 2:41 PM

Well, expansion currently isn’t on the NFL’s agenda, so don’t see that happening.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Jim was the last time Stan was quoted by any member of the media when he introduced Fisher, or has he gone on record since then?
by ihtnep 2:41 PM

To my knowledge he has not answered questions from St. Louis media since Fisher hiring in January 2012.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Do you see Lamarcus Joyner making the transition to FS next year, possibly playing a role as a nickel back as well?
by Kevin 2:42 PM

That’s certainly a possibility. He didn’t get much work even on the practice field at FS as a rookie.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

I am somewhat surprised that you are still at only 45-55 that the Rams will stay? As a fan that somehow someway the Rams stay can you give those like me your reasoning on why your hope is as high as it is? Believe me I want to believe that they would stay.
by Ram’s Fan 2:43 PM

I wouldn’t necessarily call 45% high. As long as the Peacock-Blitz plan is alive and well, St. Louis has a chance.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Jim, As always thanks for the chat. I just logged on so forgive me if this has already been brought up. I’m just going to cut to the chase: I think Kroenke feels that he has a pretty good anti-trust lawsuit against the NFL and thinks that even just the threat of taking them to court (where the settlement amount awarded to the victor are TRIPLE) will be enough to get the league to back down. Your thoughts?
by Ron 2:47 PM

Well, I’m not going to pretend I know what Kroenke thinks. I do know Kroenke’s m.o. is not to go rogue. I also know the league has some leverage with Kroenke because he’s currently not in compliance with cross-ownership rules. And I also know, as I wrote in an article last week, there are financial penalties now in place in the NFL if an owner moves without owners approval.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

If you were Fisher/Snead – what would your off season plan be?
by ScottyG 2:50 PM

Get a starting-caliber QB to truly compete with Bradford; add a starting LG and C, find a No.1 WR. Re-sign Kendricks, Britt, and Barksdale (if the price is right.)
by jthomas 2:51 PM

The move isn’t picking Jims thoughts on the team, come on people the team. Jim first round OL maybe free agent OL what do U think at center
by Bill Berry 2:51 PM

There currently are a couple of prospective free-agent centers available. including Oakland’s Stefen Wisniewski. I’d certainly check them out.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

Jim -I had thought that the LA stuff was leverage but announcing a stadium in LA at this point indicates Kroenke has been negotiating in bad faith.
by davem 2:54 PM

I don’t think you can call what’s happening in St. Louis “negotiation” as far as Kroenke is concerned.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

Would Oakland allow Wisniewski to get away?
by O.C. Search 2:54 PM

We’ll see. They haven’t always been good at keeping their own.
by jthomas 2:55 PM

Jim, how does the high school beat writer sound now?
by ramswinbig39 2:55 PM

No shame in that.
by jthomas 2:55 PM

My brothers theory is Kroenke will lease his stadium in la to team that moves there, make all profit from it and keep the rams here. Thoughts?
by Ozark eric 2:55 PM

Don’t you think a healthy amount of that profit would have to go to the actual team owner? I don’t think Kroenke would go through all this trouble (and cost) to build a stadium in LA to be a landlord.
by jthomas 2:57 PM

Jim …If you had to guess where Rams are playing in 2016 where do you think they play?
by jm2006 2:57 PM

If I’m saying it’s 45-55 that the team stays here beyond 2015, I guess that means it’s 55-45 the team is playing in LA in 2016.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

Jim Do the Rams have anybody on staff now to handle the oc job?
by Rick 2:58 PM

I’ve mentioned this before. I’m hearing tight ends coach Rob Boras could be an in-house candidate.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

If the Rams leave, do you think the city would try to keep the Rams name like Cleveland did when the original Browns left and became the Ravens?
by Dan in Denver 2:59 PM

Don’t think that will happen, especially since they were the Los Angeles Rams for nearly 50 years.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Jim, why N. Hackett?
by Cousin Vinny 2:59 PM

Let’s not overreact to Hackett. All I’ve tweeted is that he’s on the Rams radar. The Rams have talked about Hackett. That doesn’t mean he’s even a serious candidate.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Does Tre Mason reach the 1000 yards rushing next year? IYO does Quick come back as a #1 WR?
by DJM34 3:00 PM

Mason seems pretty durable, at least based on what we’ve seen in 2014. I think he’d have a good shot at 1,000 if he’s the opening day starter. As for Quick, if he comes back healthy and gets in enough training camp and preseason work coming off the shoulder surgery _ I’d day yes.
by jthomas 3:02 PM

Has Fisher reached the same level as Vermeil prior to 1999, where his offensive approach is so antiquated that he needs to take a flyer on a unique talent and worry about just being the head coach?
by Tackleberry 3:02 PM

Interesting question. I don’t think he’s at that point, particularly with the success of run-oriented Seattle and to a lesser degree San Francisco in his own backyard.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Brett Hundley, UCLA QB 2nd rd pick for Rams? Your feeling on his game? Looked real good in bowl game
by CaliSteve 3:03 PM

Haven’t studied him much at this point. I wonder if he’s a better runner than thrower at this point. Would he stay with his progressions in the NFL and hang in the pocket, or take off at the first sign of trouble in the pocket?
by jthomas 3:05 PM

Hi Jim, both top QB prospects didn’t look very good in their final games, any chance one slips to 10, do we take him?
by SteveSPN 3:05 PM

I don’t think either will be there at 10. (And that’s if Mariota comes out.)
by jthomas 3:05 PM

Jim, How long do you think it will be before the Rams start signing ( or negotiating with ) there free agents?
by PCAZ 3:06 PM

Normally, if an “in-house” free agent isn’t re-signed before the end of his last season under contract, not much happens until right around NFL Combine time or later. That’s what I anticipate from the Rams this time.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Is a restructure totally necessary for Sam this season?
by WillEYEam 3:07 PM

Good question. The Rams want that to happen. But they already have the money budgeted for Sam, and will have pretty good cap space. So if they don’t have many other strong options at QB (draft, free agent, trade), I guess it’s conceivable Bradford could be back at $13 million.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Bryce Petty from Baylor is better than most people think – he has NFL skills
by Pville Steve 3:09 PM

I think he’s certainly a guy the Rams will look at. The rap of course, will be that he’s a system QB and that success running the spread in college doesn’t always translate to success in the NFL.
by jthomas 3:11 PM

Rams opponents attacked Janoris Jenkins and rightfully so. It is sad to see the Rams play so far off receivers while successful teams like NE pretty much play press coverage for the most part. Is there a lesson to be learned here?
by Pasquale 3:11 PM

Obviously, the conclusion is that the Rams don’t have much confidence in their corners playing press coverage. Because if you miss a jam at the line of scrimmage, the chances for a big play obviously increase. (The Colts also had success w/press coverage vs. Denver.)
by jthomas 3:12 PM

Any insight as to why Barret Jones wasn’t given an opportunity at Center down the stretch?
by Pasquale 3:12 PM

Fisher opted to go with veterans at center and right guard. Makes you wonder if the Rams feel he can be a starter in the league.
by jthomas 3:14 PM

Since Zac Stacey isn’t used anymore (I don’t know why) how about trading him for Glennon?
by gcb 3:14 PM

1.) I don’t think the Bucs would trade Glennon for Stacy. Also, what does Glennon do for you. I don’t see anything special there.
by jthomas 3:16 PM

Who goes to the Super Bowl in your humble estimation?
by Pasquale 3:16 PM

Seattle vs. Indy.
by jthomas 3:16 PM

JT did you by chance read the article “Stadium expert: St. Louis would overpay for Rams under Peacock’s plan” by Brian Feldt? If so your thoughts.
by Tim S. 3:16 PM

Haven’t read it. What are his qualifications as a “stadium expert.” Also, I don’t need to read an article to realize that St. Louis would have to overpay to keep the Rams. That’s kind of where we are in this.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

Glennon got big arm almost upset Sea at Sea
by Bill Berry 3:18 PM

I don’t know. Just not seeing it.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

Jim, what do you think about the draft moving to Chicago and moving it around to different sites? Maybe we could get it if we have a team.
by ramswinbig39 3:18 PM

I think it’s a fun thing to do. I wrote a story on this last spring, with Frank Viverito of the St. Louis Sports Commission saying StL would be interested in trying to get the draft here. But he realizes, St. Louis wouldn’t necessarily be in the first wave of cities chosen.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

Your take on the Dez Brant catch? I thought it apropos that the NFL officials giveth to Dallas in one game and then taketh away in the next.
by Pasquale 3:25 PM

Yeah, what goes around comes around. As I understand the rule, the officials made the right call. But I just wonder if there isn’t a better, clearer way to write a rule on catch/no-catch.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Any thoughts about Mr Kahn would feel about owning the St Louis NFL market?
by Joe 3:27 PM

Well, he tried that back in 2010, but Stan Kroenke exercised his matching rights. From all indications, Shahid Kahn is trying to make it work in Jacksonville.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

Peacock & Blitz seem to be committed to the notion that the NFL bylaws are binding, that they are dealing with “men of integrity”. Do you share that view?
by Knux 3:28 PM

Well, I think that’s about the only thing P& B can say at this time, because that’s the only interpretation that keeps the Rams in St. Louis. (Assuming the stadium plan here becomes a reality.) As for myself, I have a certain amount of skepticism regarding NFL owners. In the past, I have often seen the league take the path of least resistance or bend the rules to resolve a situation.
by jthomas 3:31 PM

When does Jenkins mature quit getting beat deep SF end of 1st half terrible
by Bill Berry 3:31 PM

No time like the present. It’s one thing to gamble. It’s another to leave your area of responsibility and try to do someone else’s job on the field.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

Denver finished 12-4 not 4-12 and they are blowing up the entire coaching staff. They had the wins, so it is all about personalities, sorry, meant to say ‘philosophical differences? Meanwhile in St. Louis, land of .500, it’s all kumbaya?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:32 PM

Uh, St. Louis isn’t the land of .500. It’s the land of 15-65 from 2007-11. It’s the land of no winning seasons since 2003. It’s the land of 20-27-1 under Fisher/Snead.
by jthomas 3:33 PM

Assuming for just a minute that Kroenke or the NFL decides the Rams will stay in StL, how can the owner ask the fans and the community to support the team with a straight face?
by Don 3:33 PM

The NFL says to Kroenke: this is your market. Make it work. The fans come to the games to support the team and the players, not the owner.
by jthomas 3:34 PM

We need tall receivers! Ally Oop! First Down!
by Doug Vaughn 3:34 PM

The Rams have tall receivers in 2014: Quick 6-3, Britt 6-3, Cook 6-5, Kendricks 6-3.
by jthomas 3:36 PM

I get it, Schotty wasn’t fired but did Fisher open the door, stand behind Schotty and point the way for him to voluntarily walk out the door? Do you agree with Bernie that any OC is handcuffed by ‘Fisher’s offense’ so whoever comes in next gives us more of the same?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:36 PM

Yeah, I wonder if Fisher suggested that Schottenheimer “look elsewhere.” Although Schotty told me last week Fisher wanted him back. As for Bernie, I’m very glad he wrote that blog. I’ve been saying that for a couple of years. Coordinators call the plays, but they’re operating under the head coach’s overall offensive (and defensive) philosophy.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

If you can sign Kendrick reasonably, do you allow Cook to move on and continue to develop Harkey and Bayer? Cook has not earned his contract, despite being the biggest offensive fish in this diminutive offensive pond.
by Tackleberry 3:38 PM

If it were up to me, I’d like to keep Kendricks and Cook. Cook hasn’t been great, that’s for sure, but he’s been good. Until you’ve found something better why cut ties. There may also be some cap ramifications if he’s released this offseason.
by jthomas 3:40 PM

Ethan Westbrook, DLine, expected more. What happened?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:40 PM

Rams are still high on him. When he made the final cut _ as the 9th D-lineman _ they knew he was very raw and probably wouldn’t have an immediate impact. And he also suffered a broken hand that set him back for several weeks.
by jthomas 3:41 PM

Do the Rams, Chargers or Raiders come running out of the tunnel for the first game in the new stadium in 2020?
by Dave 3:41 PM

Sometimes these “predict the future” questions are a little extreme. As much as I generally like to play along, this one is pretty extreme. Unless something comes of the StL stadium plan, I’m gonna say “no one” is running out of the tunnel in 2020.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

Do you get the sense that Kroenke would partner with Spanos in order to resolve any friction? Or do you think he is going for the entire market?
by ChicagoRamsFan 3:44 PM

I’m sure Stan would rather have the entire market. But in my head I haven’t totally dismissed the “partnering” concept. Although I’m not sure Spanos would want to share a market that he thinks he should get first crack at. Also, what makes the NFL think 2 teams would be supported there, when support for even one has been problematical.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

if you could spend $$ on 2 top notch O line men in FA or spread money around and sign 3-4 guys what is your preference?
by simdaddy 3:47 PM

At this point in the Rams’ development, I would go more towards impact players.
by jthomas 3:48 PM

HI Jim, when do incentives count against the cap? Let’s say Bradford signs for a low base but 750,000 per game played, would it count when earned, or in the following year?
by shedrow 3:48 PM

Pretty sure they kick in the following year.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

Do you think Kroenke trading franchises with the Raiders or Chargers to move them is that crazy? Wouldn’t be the first time.
by Brad 3:49 PM

That’s pretty out there. But it did happen with the Colts and Rams way back when.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

Permalink
Do we over value the ability for starters on the Oline to play multiple spots? I get the back ups but we need a LG so Saffold can play RG. We need a guy who plays an excels at LG
by simdaddy 3:50 PM

Or a RG so that Saffold can play LG. Versatility is only necessary for backups.
by jthomas 3:50 PM

E.J Gaines was a wonderful surprise. My question is do you think he is a high floor low ceiling athlete, or can he get a lot better?
by shedrow 3:51 PM

I’m sure he can get better.
by jthomas 3:51 PM

Jim – what’s your take on drafting a QB to play now versus grooming them over a couple of years to start? Aside from Luck and a couple of others, it seems to me most QB’s take time to develop. With the Rams roster we seem to be at a win now point. Where does that leave us at QB? I don’t see an easy option.
by Ryan STL 3:51 PM

That’s why the Rams should’ve taken a QB earlier in the draft last year. Very few, as you point out, come in right away and succeed as starters. And no, there doesn’t appear to be an easy way out.
by jthomas 3:53 PM

Its fair to say that Saffold has never been a better NFL player than when he played RG though would you not agree. So if that is the case keep him there. Lets not have him be solid at LG when he can be Pro Bowl at RG
by simdaddy 3:53 PM

I’m not sure he’s necessarily better at RG than LG. But it’d be nice if he could just stay put at one spot, and the Rams had enough depth to patch up other spots in the case of injury. The only reason he was moved to LG from RG after Jake Long’s injury is that Davin Joseph has played only RG over his entire career.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

Jim, has Saffold had surgery yet and if so, how is he doing?
by ekern55 3:55 PM

Yes, he had it last week. Doing well. No surgery “surprise.” I hope to have some kind of an update over the next couple days.
by jthomas 3:56 PM

We need ball security forever and a secondary that doesn’t get beat so badly every other game
by Bill Berry 3:56 PM

Can’t argue with that.
by jthomas 3:56 PM

If the Inglewood voter vote “NO” in June, than Stan’s Vision of moving to LA fell apart, correct?
by EJohnson 3:56 PM

Do you really think they’ll vote NO.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

Davin Joseph – potentially Snead’s worst free agent pick up.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:57 PM

I would certainly put Cortland Finnegan ahead of Joseph on that list.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

How many of our free-agents get resigned, who are they?
by gcb 3:57 PM

As we sit here now, I’d rank them in terms of most likely to be re-signed: 1.) Britt, 2.) Barksdale, 3.) Kendricks.
by jthomas 3:58 PM

In the event of a move will you still follow the Rams on occasion?
by Jack Reynolds 3:58 PM

To be determined.
by jthomas 3:58 PM

I give Snead a pass on Finnegan, that was a Fisher move all the way.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:59 PM

Well, if that’s the case, then how do we that signing Joseph wasn’t Fisher’s move all the way?
by jthomas 3:59 PM

What is the timeline for Kronke’s LA stadium. It appears to me that reality is setting in now out there with the recognition that public money will come to play and who knows what else when local politicians start dealing? Looks good and sounds good but there’s always a challenge waiting in the background.
by Pasquale 4:00 PM

Supposedly, they think team could play there in 2018.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Goodell commented previously that no stadium would be proposed in LA without league approval. So how is Kroenke getting away with his Inglewood proposal? Shouldn’t Goodell be called out for saying any further development would need league approval?
by Count Cristo 4:00 PM

I don’t think Goodell said precisely that. Besides, Kroenke simply has an agreement in Inglewood, it’s not like the bulldozers are coming in next week.
by jthomas 4:02 PM

Should we sell the house for Winston or Mariota?
by gcb 4:02 PM

Depends. How much is the house worth?
by jthomas 4:02 PM

Joseph was signed off of the scrap heap, with known risks, in the hopes that he would rebound to be at least a quality backup. I’m not sure I’d say that his signing is even eligible for a worst FA signing. The Rams should have had some other backups capable of playing better than he played anyway.
by Plutarch 4:02 PM

Great points Plutarch. For a philosopher, sounds like you know your football.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

Jim – what happens to the plans to build Farmers field now? If Kroenke really wanted to move the team to LA, why not partnering with AEG? It seems like the most logical move. The plans to build Farmers field have been around for a while
by abiRams 4:03 PM

I don’t think Anschutz is going down without a fight. What if he/AEG partners up with Spanos and the Chargers. Then what does the league do?
by jthomas 4:05 PM

Has anyone with a coaching vacancy asked the Rams for permission to speak to Fisher?
by Duane 4:05 PM

What do you think?
by jthomas 4:05 PM

Do you get the feeling that Kronke previously discussed his move with Goodell or that Kronke is simply “testing the water” publically to see how much support there is for him out there?
by Pasquale 4:05 PM

I really don’t think Goodell is in the dark about Kroenke’s intentions.
by jthomas 4:05 PM

to date we have heard of the Rams playing in LA in 2016. Has any information leaked out as to where they would play until the stadium is ready.
by ramsfan 4:05 PM

Venue most commonly mentioned is Rose Bowl.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Does Stacey have any trade value at all?
by simdaddy 4:06 PM

Some but not much. And no reflection on Stacy, but running backjust isn’t a very highly-valued position right now.
by jthomas 4:07 PM

Jim–If the OC is from outside, is there any chance he will keep the existing terminology. That would be better than the whole team needing to learn new names for the same plays and options.
by shedrow 4:07 PM

Usually it’s a mix of both.
by jthomas 4:07 PM

Did Stacy regress or was Mason just better?
by bfulton 4:07 PM

I think it was the latter _ Mason better, and more of a big-play threat.
by jthomas 4:08 PM

A guy can dream
by Duane 4:08 PM

Permalink
No doubt. 🙂
by jthomas 4:08 PM

You said earlier that the Rams need to bring in legit competition for Bradford. Here is Evan Silva’s list of FA QBs, who would you want to bring in, it is pretty terrible:1. Mark Sanchez
2. Jake Locker
3. Brian Hoyer
4. Matt Moore
5. Ryan Mallett
6. Christian Ponder
7. Tarvaris Jackson
8. Shaun Hill
9. Michael Vick
10. Matt Hasselbeck
by Dan in Denver 4:08 PM

Of that group, I guess I’d go with Hoyer. Not that I think he’s the second coming.
by jthomas 4:09 PM

Any interviews with league officials about the stadium sitauation? Goodell, Grubman, etc?
by Nick 4:09 PM

We hope to get a couple questions to the commish at the State of the NFL press conference Super Bowl week.
by jthomas 4:10 PM

If the Rams don’t want Shaun Hill, why not let him know early so he can catch on with another team? Or sign him?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 4:10 PM

Free agency doesn’t begin until March 10. So there’s plenty of time.
by jthomas 4:10 PM

Givens has been hurt without having Sam at QB because of the lack of deep ball but has his hip sailed regardless?
by simdaddy 4:11 PM

Don’t think so. He’s still under contract. So whey not bring him back.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

Fisher doesn’t know squat about offense. If Joseph was a move of his it was only in the context of needing another warm body, somebody, anybody. Snead didn’t dig deep enough.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 4:11 PM

Well, Fisher knew enough to bring in Kenny Britt. So he must know something about offense.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

I like Schotty, however, his downfall was he couldn’t make adjustments at half time. What OC is out there that is great at adjustments?
by gcb 4:11 PM

That’s a tough call. Just like it’s tough to know which personnel men are really doing a good job, it’s tough to know who’s really making halftime adjustment and who’s not. I think the whole notion of half-time adjustments is a little overblown anyway because halftimes are so short. I think it’s more about in-game adjustments.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

Hi Jim, Please ignore if this question has already been asked. People here in STL for the most part have negative opinion about Belicheck (I’m one of them :)) but what do you think about the controversial call by the Patriots against Ravens?
by sKarnam 4:14 PM

You mean, the WR as an eligible receiver. I think it was legal.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

That Shanahan kid did alright last year with very little
by Bill Berry 4:14 PM

Yeah, but it looks like he might have some other options, including head-coaching possibilities.
by jthomas 4:15 PM

Has Marc Trestman been linked to the OC job here in St. Louis? Anyone else you have heard JT?
by EJohnson 4:15 PM

I’ve looked into it. Nothing I can report at this time. He had lots of issues in Chicago. There were questions about leadership. He didn’t work wonders with Cutler. And the production of the Bears offense went down while he was there.
by jthomas 4:16 PM

Aaron Donald and Zac Martin are both pro bowl players. Armed with this information would you pick Donald or Martin with the 13th pick
by ramsfan 4:17 PM

I’m OK with Donald.
by jthomas 4:17 PM

Who according to you is the best candidate for the OC job? Is there any possibility of Mike Martz coming out of retirement, does he even fit with Fisher’s team?
by sKarnam 4:17 PM

We all know Mike Martz loves to throw the ball. . .and throw it some more, often with no regard to staying balanced. Don’t think that’s exactly a fit. As for best fit, I don’t really have one now that Roman has opted for Buffalo.
by jthomas 4:19 PM

Rams hire Gase after he doesn’t get HC job, Manning follows to assure 8 indoor games, and the Rams sign D Thomas or J Thomas. Yes??
by Tackleberry 4:19 PM

T-berry, I appreciate your out-of-the-box thinking. But why would a guy like Gase _ who should have several options _ come to St. Louis? Same with Manning. If he wanted to continue playing wouldn’t he want to go to more of a contending team? (San Francisco, for example.)
by jthomas 4:21 PM

If the owners approve a move to LA, does Goodell have the power to veto that if he wanted?
by Brad 4:22 PM

No, this isn’t like the president. No veto power.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

When would you expect Rams and SB will decide their future?? Prior to F.A. I would expect, right?
by D_Roks30 4:23 PM

Yeah, and that isn’t until March 10.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

Is it ok that I wish bad things on Stan?
by Stanisthedevil 4:24 PM

Sure, as long as you don’t practice voodoo.
by jthomas 4:25 PM

What do you make of jerry jones comment that kroenke can move without league approval?
by alex 4:25 PM

Jerry’s a maverick, and I wouldn’t be stunned if he told Kroenke: Just do what you want and force the league’s hand.
by jthomas 4:26 PM

Jim, thanks for the chats, I love your inside on football. What’s your prediction for depth chart for corner next year, janoris just looks to be 3rd or 4th to me
by Stlouisramsfan 4:26 PM

I’d be shocked if he wasn’t starting. I’d say Jenkins No. 1, Gaines, No. 2, Johnson No. 3, Roberson or Joyner No. 4 or 5. These rankings to not necessarily reflect my views.
by jthomas 4:28 PM

Good Day JT, Any news or guess on who the Rams next OC might be ?
by OzyRamsFan 4:28 PM

Pretty quiet at the moment.
by jthomas 4:28 PM

Jerry Jones’ comments can not be good. He’s the most powerful owner IMO and he’s now publicly laid the groundwork the Rams move and for the PR spin. They may as well rip the bylaws up and throw them in the trash.
by Terry 4:28 PM

He’s powerful, but he’s only 1 of 32. All that is needed to block a move is nine votes.
by jthomas 4:29 PM

With the Rams effort for a new stadium if the Rams leave would the raiders, Chargers or some other franchise come to STL?
by GrAnt 4:29 PM

Raiders and Chargers are possibilities.
Correct. St. Louis is not going to built the stadium without assurances that they will have the Rams or some other team here.
by jthomas 4:31 PM

Fox coached his team into the playoffs every year including with Tebow, that to good of a coach to give the boot, who is better as a replacement ?
by OzyRamsFan 4:31 PM

That’s a very good question. I think the Broncos will have a hard time coming up with one.
by jthomas 4:32 PM

With the full season in the rearview, what would you say were the single most impressive offensive and defensive plays of the year for the Rams?
by scottc82 4:32 PM

If you ask me, the play of the year was the “Mountaineer” _ the punt return trickery that led to the 90-yard punt return for TD by Stedman Bailey vs. Seattle on Oct. 19.
by jthomas 4:33 PM

who has a better chance of returning between stacy, givens and bradford?
by WillEYEam 4:33 PM

I think there’s a good to very good chance all three are back.
by jthomas 4:34 PM

Do you think there will be any big surprises when teams fill their head coach vacancies? Are there any stealth candidates out there? Bill Bidwill used to do a good job of dropping a few shockers (Bud Wilkinson).
by Andy 4:34 PM

There’s always a surprise or two.
by jthomas 4:35 PM

Will Warner and Pace get elected to the HOF this year? Will Bernie be the one to present their cases (like he did for Roger Wehril)?
by Andy 4:36 PM

I think at least one will get in, and it’s possible both get in. Bernie will have help on Warner from the Arizona voter.
by jthomas 4:37 PM

Hi Jim. Long time reader of your chats. I am wondering if any one on the Rams thinks that Chase Daniels could be the back-up and then groomed QB to follow Sam if he gets hurt again. He does win even if he plays very little.
by Dr. Shoe 4:38 PM

He’s under contract with Kansas City in 2015, so itt would have to be a trade. And he’s making a lot for a backup. I think it might be $5 million next year.
by jthomas 4:39 PM

Hello Jim, First, thank you for all the years of informative and professional reporting. Living in Costa Rica I really appreciate your Rams coverage. Do you think it is time for the front office to start thinking about the future replacements of C. Long and J. Laurinaitis? Even if they are thinking a few years out?
by Ken P 4:40 PM

Could be wrong, but I think there are many other more pressing things on the Rams’ to-do list at this time.
by jthomas 4:40 PM

Jim – are the Rams not profitable in ST Louis? I would assume there are other less profitable teams elsewhere in the league.
by Ryan STL 4:40 PM

Due to the money from the TV contract, it’s basically impossible to lose money. So yes, the Rams are still making money, although I’m sure they’re at or near the bottom in profitability. But here’s a tip on how to make more money: try winning more than one out of three ballgames over an 11-year stretch.
by jthomas 4:42 PM

JT the article was quoting Neil deMause, a New York City-based author who tracks stadium development news, it was reported in the St. Louis Business Journal and by Atlanta Business Chronicle, it was an interesting read on the situation.
by Tim S. 4:42 PM

Thanks. If it’s not a problem could you e-mail a link to jthomas@post-dispatch.com.
by jthomas 4:43 PM

Of the last 4 remaining teams in NFL postseason, who is your favorite to win it all? Personally, I would love to see Seattle’s defense tear the Patriots apart.
by sKarnam 4:44 PM

I’d say Seattle. That defense is something else.
by jthomas 4:44 PM

Well we will have to negotiate a lease agreement…lol no problem!
by Tim S. 4:46 PM

Yes, as Peacock termed it, there will be a “modernized” lease agreement.
by jthomas 4:46 PM

Would you ever consider reporting for the LA Times?
by gcb 4:46 PM

If they call, I will listen.
by jthomas 4:47 PM

Where oh where have you gone Mike Martz? Even when the Rams lost the games were exciting!
by Hank 4:48 PM

56-36 as Rams head coach.
by jthomas 4:49 PM

Kroenke wants the LA market for cable rights, a lot of money and people out there, they could have their own cable network and sell it to the local cable suppliers. Remember Anaheim coming in and signing Pujols to that large contract and a couple of days later the owner announces a $250M cable agreement, that is where the money came from for Pujols and good for him. that is what Kroenke invisions, i believe he has that in Denver?
by Bob Hruby 4:49 PM

What cable rights? Except for the 4 preseason games (those not shown on national TV, that is), that goes to the league and is split among the teams.
by jthomas 4:50 PM

so it is not like baseball TBS, Fox Sports etc??
by Bob Hruby 4:51 PM

No sir.
by jthomas 4:51 PM

Do you think we will know the Rams fate come A
ugust?
by Brad 4:52 PM

No. Unless the StL stadium plan collapses.
by jthomas 4:52 PM