JT chat, 3/27

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_83?Page=0

Jim – What percent we have the St. Louis Raiders in the next five years?
by McGarrett 2:02 PM

I don’t think I can give you a percent. But if the Rams don’t finalize the stadium plan, i.e. financing, land assembly, it will be 0 percent. If they finalize it, I think it could be above 50 percent.
by jthomas 2:04 PM

With all of the bad blood do you see any scenario where
Chuckles Kroenke could possibly stay in St.Louis?
Even if by some miracle the NFL shows some backbone
and actually held Chuckles to the rules (fat chance) how could
he stay here? That’d be a PR nightmare.
No, the Rams are gone. And this talk of selling the Rams to someone local
and buying the Raiders and taking them to LA is a pipe dream.
Billionaires do not get inconvenienced (see cross ownership rules).
We can build all of the stadiums we want but if Chuckles the billionaire
wants to move to LA, Chuckles the billionaire will move to LA.
by Just say No to Chuckles 2:04 PM

Possible, but not likely. But let’s just say the Rams stay and Kroenke is forced to say. He’s rarely seen anyway. He never speaks to the local media. How tough would it be? Fan root for the team anyway. Not the owner.
by jthomas 2:06 PM

If Joe Barksdale signed else where, is the best tackle left available in the draft and not free agency?
by Baker 2:06 PM

There’s really nothing left in free agency. So you’d be talking draft. And some of the top guys in the draft are Brandon Scherff, La’el Collins, Andrus Peat.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

Is Tim Barnes officially out?
by Baker 2:08 PM

No. He has an offer on the table from the Rams _ pretty sure it’s a minimum offer _ but is shopping around.
by jthomas 2:09 PM

Being a rams fan from Iowa i’m not sure if St.Louis is a nfl city. You can come here in 2003 and make the case it was a amazing fan base possibly the loudest stadium in the league. I’m not sure what happened but currently the fanbase in St.Louis just isn’t the same.
by Kevin 2:09 PM

Here are the team’s won-loss records since 2003: 8-8, 6-10, 8-8, 3-13, 2-14, 1-15, 7-9, 2-14, 7-8-1, 7-9. 6-10. It adds up to 57-118-1. Think that has anything to do with it? Now throw in an owner who refuses to engage the fans and the media? And add the looming prospect of a move.
by jthomas 2:15 PM

Fisher seems to enjoy spreading disinformation and misleading the fans on his plans. Is this a fair assessment?
by Buster 2:15 PM

On the Bradford-Foles trade, certainly.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

If the Bradford-Foles deal had gone down just a day or two earlier, do you think the Rams would still have this o-line dilemma? When Orlando Franklin, Mike Iupati, Bryan Bulaga and others were still available. The timing of the deal always seemed strange to me because the salary cap space couldn’t be adequately used with most of the best players off the board. Next year the contract was up so the savings are only for one year. To get full value from the deal they needed to use the room this season.
by Baker 2:16 PM

The deal was done right at the start of the free agency period. It did not have a negative impact on the players you mentioned.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

Does it sound plausible to you that when Kroenke hired Fisher and Snead, he gave them a directive to build slowly but surely for a 2015 or 2016 playoff run, knowing he’d try to move the team around then?
by c_good 2:17 PM

Don’t think so.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

6 different rookies outperformed all of the Rams WRs last year, I’m not sure a wash-rinse-repeat scenario, just because they re-signed Britt, makes sense. There is still not an elite receiver on the roster as of today.
by Tackleberry 2:18 PM

Yeah, certainly seems like the Rams’ timing was off a year ago as far the WR class was concerned. That probably wasn’t the best draft to pass on taking one.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

After we get starters from the first 3 rounds, does Snead go into a wheeling and dealing mode to acquire more picks?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:19 PM

I’m not sure the Rams necessarily need the extra picks that they might get in the mid to late rounds.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

Which round do you think the Rams will draft a QB?
by Roger Clarvin 2:19 PM

It’s got to be 2 or 3. And 3 might be too late.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

Hi Jim, I see the NFL is doing surveys about market support for the Rams. I do believe that the fans will support the team, especially if the quality of the product continues to improve. My concern is corporate sponsorship. Do you believe that their is or will be enough of a commitment from our corporate community?
by kenney 2:20 PM

That’s a key question. One the league will be looking at closely. And I believe that’s an area Kroenke & Co. will try to exploit in arguing to team owners that they meet relocation guidelines..
by jthomas 2:22 PM

Hello Jim, what is the plan with the offesive line? Is Jake Long coming back, Barksdale reached a secret agreement? It looks as if there is a secret plan.
by Murat from Jax 2:22 PM

Don’t believe Jake Long is coming back. I think there’s a good chance Barksdale returns. Don’t know what you’re talking about when it comes to secret plan.
by jthomas 2:23 PM

Is Kraft telling us to forget the Rams in 2015 and start rooting for the Raiders? NFL says they only want 2 teams in all of SoCal, so Chargers will be one of those 2 no matter what. If the Rams move to LA, Raiders will have to stay in Oakland, or move to someplace else.
by ZGare 2:23 PM

Don’t think he’s saying that exactly. But there will be one team left out of the LA Sweepstakes and it doesn’t look like Oakland will ever get a stadium built for the Raiders.
by jthomas 2:25 PM

Since you were at the owners meeting, can you explain the real reason why the NFL is leery of adding end zone cameras? Fans and even Belichick don’t buy the excuse the NFL can’t afford them.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:25 PM

I didn’t pay a ton of attention to the league rules, since I was concentrating on Rams stuff. But yeah, it’s hard to believe the league can’t afford extra cameras.
by jthomas 2:26 PM

Jim, do you think league has already given the green light to Kroenke based on Goodell moving up relocation vote?
by JM 2:26 PM

The headline on my story was misleading. Goodell and the league has not moved up the relocation vote. They have discussed doing so. But I think if that becomes official, it’s not a good sign for the Rams in St. Louis.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

Glad you made it back! Wonder if you sensed any awe on the part of the owners from S. Kroneoke’s recently disclosed stadium plans. Rooftop Billboard, no less…
by MJ 2:28 PM

Did not sense any awe. The renderings do look impressive though.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

Jim has demmoff quit on stl is he only going because the Nfl tells him too?
by jard 2:28 PM

No comment.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

Watching the market for CB’s this off-season I am tempted to say that maybe drafting Trae Waynes would not be a bad idea. I want a WR and I know we need OL… I hate watching this offense… do we really want to watch them overpay Jenkins next winter? Unless of course they are in LA.
by Tackleberry 2:29 PM

Good points. I don’t know, I think they like what they have at corner.
by jthomas 2:30 PM

With what Kroenke will need to charge for PSLs and tickets to get back his $2B stadium cost plus $1B reloaction fee, I’m guessing tickets in LA will be about $400 each, especially if you include PSL costs. That is about the same cost as flying to St. Louis to see a game. Should LA fans consider that option instead?
by ZGare 2:30 PM

Maybe they should!
by jthomas 2:30 PM

Jim – When the Oakland Raiders move here after all the dust has settled (I know – unlikely) would it be with Davis as owner or do you think NFL would guide the franchise here to a St. Louis based owner? And, if so, could St. Louis rebrand the franchise as the Stallions?
by EJ Junior 2:30 PM

Call me crazy. Call both of us crazy. I’ve actually thought about that. Rebranding the Raiders franchise as the Stallions in St. Louis. For those of you who may not remember, Stallions was supposed to be the name of the expansion team here in the early ’90s. Overall, as I mentioned before, I’m not ruling out anything when it comes to franchise free agency.
by jthomas 2:33 PM

I can understand the fans not liking what is going on with the team. But you have to understand that the value of a successful franchise in LA will be worth a lot more than a successful team in St Louis. Just look at what the Clippers sold for. And from everything I understand about Stan, he wants successful teams.
by Len 2:33 PM

Until the LA fans get tired of the novelty and quit going to games. Even the prettiest stadium won’t be enough to keep fans coming if the Rams present the kind of product they’ve present St. Louis for the last 11 seasons. As for the Clippers price tag, keep in mind, they make a lot of money because of local and regional TV rights for their games, something that’s not available to an NFL team. As for Kroenke’s vision of sports teams: I’ve never heard him say he’s in it for championships. Not once. I’ve heard him say many times he wants competitive teams.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Besides having no winning seasons in 11 years, the Rams have had no STARs since Warner and Faulk. Which Rams player has the potential to become a Star in the NFL by national standards, if any?
by ZGare 2:38 PM

Quinn and Donald seem to have the most star power. Really don’t see anyone who fills that bill on the offensive side of the ball at this point.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

Lets say the Riverfront stadium in stl comes to fruition which team is more likely to be stl Raiders or Rams?
by Josh 2:38 PM

Sorry Josh. I can’t call that one.
by jthomas 2:39 PM

What happened with the FA center from the Raiders – no team is biting. Was his injury a bigger concern than most thought a few weeks ago? Rams out?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:39 PM

He’s still out there. Don’t think the torn labrum is that big a deal. Don’t think the Rams are necessarily out of it.
by jthomas 2:39 PM

seems as if Rhaney has been mentioned a little asa potential starter at Center….the kid from Bama may have the rep but maybe the coaches liked what they saw from rhaney before the injury
by TXfan 2:39 PM

Yeah, although it wasn’t much, I do think the coaches liked what they saw from Rhaney before his injury. Jones would still be the favorite as starter, however, if no new moves are made at center.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

Granting the very big “if” of whether the STL stadium gets funded, should we care if it’s the Rams or Raiders in STL in a few years? I do, but I wonder what your take is.
by c_good 2:40 PM

If it were up to me, I would prefer the Rams. Just because of the “mini-tradition” of having them here for 20 years, and the legacy of the Greatest Show teams.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Here’s one sadly hilarious thing about the Rams’ season records and progress toward success: If they’d made a playoff run last year, the city would be excited, and it’d be harder for the NFL to say STL is a bad market for the Rams. Now, if they make a run next year, everyone will feel so deflated and betrayed that success generates less fan enthusiasm and becomes a case for putting the Rams–a successful, well-managed team–in the new LA market, instead of the Raiders or Chargers.
by c_good 2:42 PM

I do not disagree.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Rams are 50/1 to win the Super Bowl. What do you think of those odds? If the 2015 season were played 50 times, do you think the Rams could win it once?
by c_good 2:42 PM

Not really.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Jim – Why haven’t we heard about Pead being let go? What could Fisher & Co still possibly see in this guy? Talk about wasted cap space.
by Free 2:42 PM

I know. I know. Fisher mentioned him at the coaches breakfast Wednesday. Said he’s back out on the field doing work.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

In 2010, Shahid Khan had a deal in place to buy the Rams and keep them in St. Louis. Instead, Stan was allowed to buy the 60% he didn’t own despite being in violation of cross ownership rules. Since it is now obvious that Stan was not honest with anyone, Rams fans and NFL owners alike, and obviously bought that 60% with the sole intention of moving the team to LA to increase the value of the 60% he had just bought by 3 fold, how much of that will translate into ill feelings by the other owners and thus vote against his move?
by George 2:43 PM

Don’t think that’ll be a factor.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

Say we sign barksdale. And we draft a WR or another position in the first few rounds. Will the Rams oline that we have now then be enough for success?
by Robert from Austin 2:44 PM

They still need a starting center and starting guard.
by jthomas 2:44 PM

Jim – Cardinals in STL for 27 years, possible Rams will be 21 years. If a new team comes in, someone could reasonably root for three teams in a lifetime in the same city. Just seems … strange.
by McGarrett 2:44 PM

Very strange.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

Tell us one fun fact we didn’t know about the owners meeting, no matter how trivial.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:47 PM

When he walked by me at the league’s Monday night party, Stan Kroenke gave me a, “Hey, Jimbo!” Which is how he used to address me in the old days, i.e., before he became controlling owner of the Rams.
by jthomas 2:48 PM

It seems like Fisher and Snead are content to leave 1 or 2 positions a year very susceptible to disaster, whether it be depth, youth or a lack of overall talent, almost like a built-in excuse just in case the season tanks.
by Tackleberry 2:49 PM

They sure have some work to do on the O-line, that’s for sure.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

Do you think the Rams would pick someone like MyCole Pruitt (sp?)? I know they have good depth at TE but Pruitt was a beast at SIU. I am a little biased as a SIU alum of course.
by bdefreitas20390 2:49 PM

Had Kendricks signed elsewhere, I think they’d be all over Pruitt, but I can’t see it happening now. (By the way, your spelling was correct.) I do think he’s a good prospect.
by jthomas 2:51 PM

Will the Rams have any sellouts this yr?
by Larry 2:51 PM

Doubt it. But remember, no blackouts in 2015. All games on TV.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

Jim, How about the Rams bring in J martin, cut by the Whiners
by OzyRamsFan 2:52 PM

If it’s up to me, no thanks.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

“Jimbo” it is then.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 2:52 PM

OK, Stan.
by jthomas 2:53 PM

In April, 2010, when Stan Kroenke was quoted as saying that he would attempt to do everything he could to keep the Rams in St. Louis, did you think that would include financing a new NFL stadium in another city?
by Turf Toe Jones 2:53 PM

No sir.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

I think the Ring of Honor would be even more strange with a 3rd team, those pesky purple stallions or the raiders!
by MJ 2:54 PM

Yeah, it would be so confusing.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

When do you think we will hear something regarding if the financing will get passed for the new stadium?
by mark 2:54 PM

Got to be no later than the fall now.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

If STL says the financing is in place for the new stadium, can Kroenke say “No it’s not because I’m not going to put up the $250 million you want from the owner.” Then, can he leave on that basis?
by Tom R 2:54 PM

In theory, Stan could say no. But he’d be under a lot of pressure from the league to say yes. The NFL didn’t get to where it is today by turning down cities that offer half a billion dollars to build a stadium. Several owners indicated to David Hunn and I that they do not want to “abandon” St. Louis if that’s the case.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

rumor has it that there are ways around financing issues if Nixon can not extend the bonds. any truth to that?
by stldb 2:59 PM

Honestly don’t know on that one.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

any change in your odds of the rams staying?
by ramfan in to 2:59 PM

Yeah, I’m down a couple of percentage points to 43-57.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Being the old timer that I am, I’ve seen the both the football Cardinals and the Rams come and go. That St. Louis signed the agreement with the “top tier” requirement for the Rams, only demonstrates their lack of smarts. Kronke was no dummy and grabbed the chance to set up St. Louis for the move to LA despite NFL rules. He had to be doing so with the NFL’s blessing, as it fit with the NFL’s desire to have a team (now two teams) in the LA market. Mark my words, St. Louis will once again be the odd man out. Your take?
by Beano 3:00 PM

Well, I certainly agree that the decision to go with the “top-tier” requirements was a major blunder by the powers to be in St. Louis in the 1995. St. Louis wouldn’t be in this predicament otherwise.
by jthomas 3:02 PM

With Stan inviting another team in his stadium, does this put a better chance of the Rams leaving? Could the team the is left out in inglewood come to STL?
by Grant 3:02 PM

Yeah, I think when all is said and done that could be St. Louis’ best hope when all is said and done. That the third team ends up here.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Jim – what are your odds of STL having ANY football team in 2016 and on?
by Simple.10 3:03 PM

48-52
by jthomas 3:03 PM

What are the stadium situations in SD and OAK?
by Grant 3:03 PM

Pretty bleak. San Diego has been trying for about 15 years with no progress. And their stadium is in much worse shape than the Edward Jones Dome. As for Oakland, I don’t think that ever gets done. If the area’s going to build one stadium, it’s probably for the A’s (81 dates instead of 10).
by jthomas 3:05 PM

Do you think the rams would to move barksdale to G, similar to saffold? That’s assuming he is re-signed. Thanks
by Paul 3:06 PM

Why not just keep him at RT.
by jthomas 3:06 PM

Was it ever indicated that the proposed stadium for the riverfront in St. Louis would have natural grass turf?
by Turf Toe Jones 3:06 PM

That’s a good question. I believe it is a grass field.
by jthomas 3:06 PM

I am sure HOK is aware of the ETFE roofing (billboard) system on the Inglewood stadium. It would be interesting for HOK to cost the system for the Riverfront stadium. It must have other values than just serving as an potential billboard. Probably more so in St Louis than LA. Maybe Enterprise , AB, Edward Jones or Monsanto would be interested in financing the project in return for advertising rights
by ramsfan 3:06 PM

All makes sense.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Instead of giving an opt-out based on top tier, they should have offered the team a golden lease arrangement if the top tier requirement wasn’t met.
by Plutarch 3:07 PM

Or say, we can’t do top 8, but we can do top 16.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

The same reason they didn’t leave saffold at RT maybe?
by Paul 3:07 PM

Then who plays RT.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Heard anything from tony sofli
by Jim loves rams 3:07 PM

Not really. I think he’s back in Seattle.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

Did Spanos have to work the opposite side of the room than Kroenke at the owners meeting? Could you tell if they were cordial to each other?
by Chas 3:08 PM

We’re not invited into the meeting rooms.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

Have you had a chance to meet Foles yet? What are your thoughts as him as a person and as a QB?
by Gladdy 3:08 PM

Only for the brief introductory press conference.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Fisher mentioned the draft class in the OL is outstanding. So how bout drafting a RT that is an upgrade? Thanks
by Paul 3:09 PM

I think “outstanding” was an exaggeration.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Do the Rams really need to draft a QB this year?
by Grant 3:09 PM

So you feel perfectly content with Foles, Davis, and Keenum _ all of whom have contracts that expire after 2015?
by jthomas 3:10 PM

Ok. So do you think its easier to draft a plug and play G, than a plug and play T? Thanks
by Paul 3:11 PM

Probably a tossup. Remember, we’re talking about a plug-and-play RT, not a plug-and-play LT.
by jthomas 3:12 PM

So the focus group in STL, what will they ask us?
by stldb 3:12 PM

I would say it might be similar to some of the survey questions, don’t you think, only they would be looking for more details, elaboration, etc.
by jthomas 3:14 PM

I saw a brief article re: the lone, ardent St. Louis Rams fan with his sign across the street from owner’s meeting… now that’s a fan! We need him in that focus group!
by MJ 3:14 PM

Yeah David Hunn and I talked to him on Tuesday. Very interesting guy, and spoke well on the plight of being a Rams fan in St. Louis. He was out there with about 18 other StL Rams fans on Sunday. But after what apparently was an, uh, extensive pool party on Monday, he was the only one to answer the bell on Tuesday.
by jthomas 3:16 PM

what are the chances of the rams drafting a wr in 1st round
by dave 3:16 PM

Doesn’t seem very likely now that Britt has re-signed.
by jthomas 3:17 PM

If Barrett Jones is the starter at C, GRob at LT and Saffold at RG, do you think Fisher would be prepared to start rookies at LG and RT or is it almost certain that a vet is brought in to start somewhere on the line?
by Fretting about Jackson 3:17 PM

Ideally, I think he’d want to have at least one of the other two starters be a vet.
by jthomas 3:17 PM

With the NFL wanting information on fan support for the Rams, are they doing same for the Inglewood venue or anywhere else? Seems awful curious to me knowing you can make statics fit different scenarios.
by Beano 3:17 PM

Yes, they’re doing market studies for LA, Oakland, San Diego, and StL.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

whats your top 3 options for pick 10 and top 3 trade down options?
by dave 3:18 PM

Haven’t gotten that far yet.
by jthomas 3:19 PM

Do you think would the rams look at Matt Schaub If they could pick him up cheap
by Jim loves rams 3:19 PM

Doubt it.
by jthomas 3:19 PM

Could there be a possibility the Rams moving is a smokescreen to own the Broncos? Sell the Rams, build Inglewood and force the Chargers and Raiders to pay rent, and get minority ownership with first dibs on majority with the Broncos. He makes money off four NFL teams while owning only one, eliminates the cross-ownership rule, and owns the entire Denver pro sports market.
by Den 3:19 PM

If so, it’s an extremely elaborate smoke screen.
by jthomas 3:20 PM

You don’t seem to have much confidence in Barrett Jones as a starting center.
by ORRamfan 3:20 PM

I don’t know where you’re getting that. But he does have next to no NFL experience, and an injury history.
by jthomas 3:21 PM

jim, isn’t it a slap in the face that the NFL wants a market study done in 3 cities that have supported the nfl for 50 years already? (Oakland, San Diego & St. louis)
by st.annramsfan 3:21 PM

Thank you. Couldn’t agree more. How many times does St. Louis have to prove to the NFL that it’s a market. I think it’s insulting to Oakland, San Diego, and St. Louis. Los Angeles is the only city that should have to prove anything. It has after all lost 3 NFL teams over the years.
by jthomas 3:23 PM

If at the time of the filing, the Inglewood project and Carson project are basically in the same position, how will the NFL chose? Flip a coin?
by Chas 3:23 PM

Yeah, that would be interesting. But Carson’s pretty far behind right now.
by jthomas 3:24 PM

I know it is and will remain an important local sports story….But I’ve already had my fill of the Rams developing drama. There are several reasons why the future of the NFL in St. Louis is so unsettled. However, there is nothing that citizens/fans can do about it. It’s like waiting for the prognosis from a medical team. It’ll be what it’s going to be, and until we’re told the story is getting old. I’m ready for the Blues to make a DEEP run (a Cup ??) and for the Redbirds to take the field. As for Rams fan-dom (myself included) we’ve been poorly served, but sometimes bad things happen to good people. At any rate its beyond our influence until at least next season IF even then.
by Brent Wood 3:25 PM

OK, then Brent. We’ll wake you up when it’s all over.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

spanos and davis family have been owners for a long time. stank is relatively new as full owner. the other long-time owners must look at this info, right? Are they just going to let the new guy come in get what he wants because he has more money?
by stldb 3:25 PM

They might. But I believe there certainly is sentiment for Spanos among the owners.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Any idea if the Rams are confident in Robinson to be able to accommodate a rookie starting inside him?
by Fretting about Jackson 3:26 PM

May not happen. Saffold could stay at LG.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

I guess when Demoff addressed our company last year and said “it was going to get worse before it gets better”, he was referring to Stan’s investment and not the STL fan investment
by Tom Bateman 3:27 PM

Yeah and it may never get better.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

You do Realize that LA is in an Earthquake zone
by Jim loves rams 3:28 PM

Yes, and so does the league.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

Hi Jim, So the Cheattriots now are getting off that “Deflate Gate” incident scotch free since they won the SB? It seems that nobody say anything about it anymore . What’s your take of this ? Thanks
by Colin D 3:28 PM

Doesn’t seem like the national writers are that interested in the story anymore.
by jthomas 3:29 PM

what was your favorite moment from last season?
by dave 3:29 PM

Probably the Mountaineer punt return play with Bailey and Austin vs. Seattle.
by jthomas 3:30 PM

Has there been any reaction from Mr Peacock regarding the NFL moving up the timetable for relocation.
by ramsfan 3:31 PM

Again, they haven’t moved it up. They’ve discussed doing so.
by jthomas 3:31 PM

Not trying to be argumentative, but if memory serves me Franklin and Iupati had already signed before the Bradford deal was made. Bulaga had told players he was going to resign. So that was my line of thinking. It was all done during that “don’t tamper, but it’s ok to tamper” period.
by Baker 3:33 PM

Yeah, I see your point now looking back on it.
by jthomas 3:34 PM

I currently own the souls of the 32 NFL owners. Do you actually think that any one of them has the morals to do the right thing when it comes to the relocation process? Greed trumps all. PS – E Stanley is my prized pupil. Worth 6 Billion and thirsty for more. Beautiful.
by Lucifer 3:34 PM

We’re about to find out.
by jthomas 3:34 PM

Been a busy week, have you given any more thought to which QB from this draft best fits the Rams?
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:35 PM

My early _ and I underline “early” _ read says Bryce Petty.
by jthomas 3:35 PM

I greatly appreciated the efforts of Peacock and Blitz but I just don’t see a winning scenario. If he’s forced to stay it will affect the product on the field, if the Raiders are forced to come here, the same. I think it’s a done deal and I hate that St Louis has to suffer the embarrassment of this lame duck season, just to prove their point.
by tn 3:36 PM

Peacock & Blitz aren’t going down without a fight.
by jthomas 3:36 PM

Hi Jim, You mentioned how Stan has worked – it seems – to alienated the fan base. Could we take that one step further and suggest he has also deliberately hoped to erode the corporate base as well?
by stannramsfan 3:37 PM

Well he certainly didn’t do anything to cultivate the corporate fan base. Not sure if he even showed up to a Civic Progress meeting over the years.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

Hey Jim, thanks for suffering through these chats. I always enjoy reading them. Where do you think DGB will go in the draft?
by Jake 3:38 PM

I want to say second round. But I think it might be late first.
by jthomas 3:39 PM

As they lack a decent OL, St. Louis QB’s are fish in a barrel. If they (Rams) considered their FA’s at that position not worth the dollars and the remaining FA’s at that position are not palatable replacements, then the only option is thru the draft. Woe is me. 6 – 10 would look good.
by Beano 3:39 PM

Let’s see what it looks like in early May after the draft, and after the bulk of free agency is done.
by jthomas 3:40 PM

Fischer is suppose to be an old school coach, right?
A ground and pound kinda guy?
How does an old school coach not put a premium on the o-line?
If lineman are so easy to replace why has our o-line been terrible for 10 years?
Football is won or lost at the line of scrimmage isn’t it?
by Just say No to Chuckles 3:40 PM

It has been an ongoing problem, hasn’t it? Even before Fisher arrived.
by jthomas 3:41 PM

Good Day Jim, are the Rams going to sign a OL FA Barksdale, Blylock or WIz ?
by OzyRamsFan 3:41 PM

Don’t think they have enough money anymore for all three, but I think they’d like to end up with 2 of the 3.
by jthomas 3:42 PM

Do you think moving two teams to LA at the same time would be a mistake? Wasn’t that part of the problem the last time the NFL was in LA?
by Gladdy 3:42 PM

I don’t think the league sees it as a problem. But I wonder about it, particularly considering the sketchy fan support in the past.
by jthomas 3:42 PM

Jim, with renderings of new stadium being presented to owners and the possible move up date to vote for relocation, what are your odds now that Rams relocate?
by JM 3:43 PM

There was never a formal presentation of Kroenke’s updated stadium plans made to the owners.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

Do you think St.Louis is a viable nfl market?
by Josh 3:43 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

I live in Oregon and made it out about every other year from 2000 – 2012. It seemed like Budweiser was a massive sponsor of the Rams, and the Rams game day experience up until my last visit. Did Bud back off their sponsorship or was it just a fluke that they didn’t seem as involved last time I was out.
by Steve A 3:44 PM

I think they’re still pretty heavily involved.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

Stallions? What is this? 1974?
by Turf Toe Jones 3:45 PM

Uh, that was 1993.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

Go Go Go you Purple Stallions!
by MJ 3:46 PM

There you go.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

But Jim–can we not agree that the Stallions’ purple design was kind of ridiculous? Can we find something more menacing or historically relevant to the region? Like the St. Louis Meriwether Lewises, or the St. Louis T-Ravs?
by c_good 3:46 PM

I still have a Purple Stallions sweatshirt. It looks fine.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

I’m just saying “Stallions” sounds like a CFL team.
by c_good 3:47 PM

No, Roughriders would.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

If it comes to pass are the Raiders in STL really better than no team? Kroneke might be an evil genius to STL eyes but he has a plan. Davis has to be near the top of the NFL owner knucklehead owners chart.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 3:47 PM

He’s 29-50-1 in 5 seasons as controlling owner. I don’t think that qualifies Kroenke for a genius patch.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

Hey jim on the earlier Demoff question and ‘no comment’ … Demoff being forced by the NFL to go where? the Peacock stadium meetings? at any rate the fix seems in on the relocation(s)
by tim 3:50 PM

The question pertained to the Rams being “forced” by the league to attend stadium meetings with Peacock & Blitz.
by jthomas 3:52 PM

When one goes to an NFL Stadium Focus group, which answers keeps a team here — Prefer open air stadium and will buy new PSLs? I’m afraid if you say you like the dome or want a retractable roof, Kroenke uses that against us. Any other good answers?
by ZGare 3:52 PM

Other good answers. You love the Rams. You love football. We have continued to support a terrible product. St. Louis has expressed a willingness to build 2 stadiums in less than 25 years something that’s unprecedented in NFL history.
by jthomas 3:56 PM

Is it possible they will use Tim Barnes as starting center
by Jim loves rams 3:57 PM

If he re-signs, he could be in the mix.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

Why does the NFL think it is okay to just swap teams and put the Raiders or whoever in STL if the Rams leave. We all care so much and have so much invested in every draft and player acquisition. Do they expect us to just drop all of that and become Raiders fans?
by Dan in Denver 3:58 PM

Yeah, it’s amazing to me that in order to placate one market (Los Angeles), the league is willing to risk alienating three markets (St. Louis, San Diego, Oakland). How can that be a good thing?
by jthomas 3:59 PM

Curious as to why you feel the Carson project is way behind Inglewood, is it just the zoning vote or is there more.
by Andy B 4:00 PM

Well, I think the Inglewood project is shovel ready.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Any sense of whether Mo Alexander improved enough last year to start pressing for playing time this year or is he strictly STs again?
by Fretting about Jackson 4:01 PM

I think we’re talking strictly special teams at least at the start of the season.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

How is your son doing and is he a Rams fan?
by PURE ADRENALINE 4:01 PM

My oldest is an Army captain and currently stationed in Afghanistan. My middle son is an Army 1st Lt. currently stationed at Ft. Bragg w/the 82nd Airborne. My youngest son is rock drummer for a band called The Few, which is about to drop its first album in May. All are big Rams fans. Captain Thomas usually wears his Isaac Bruce jersey when the Rams are on TV. Thanks for asking.
by jthomas 4:04 PM

Think the rams could look at RB sometime in the draft. Maybe replace stacy? Thanks
by Paul 4:04 PM

It’s a good RB draft, and Fisher likes piling up RBs. However, he indicated at the NFC coaches breakfast that he felt good about what they had in the backfield.
by jthomas 4:05 PM

Actually, not hearing from Demoff, Kroenke and all of the other Ram non-football types is fine with me. I know there intentions and don’t really care to be lied to anymore.
by Tom Bateman 4:06 PM

Yeah, it’s crystal clear now, isn’t it?
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Hey Jim! Thanks for the chat. All this relocation talk has me reminiscing about when the Big Red left 🙁 What’s your best memory of the Cardiac Cards?
by JoeRamfan 4:06 PM

Well, my uncle worked concessions there in the mid to late 60s and used to sneak me into the bleacher area to watch games. Nearly 10 years later I remember being totally hooked on Don Coryell’s Cardiac Cardinals of 74-76. Lots of late comebacks and clutch kicks by Jim Bakken.
by jthomas 4:08 PM

Thanks, JT. I’ll expect my wake up around November. “preciate ya.
by Brent Wood 4:09 PM

Consider me your alarm clock!
by jthomas 4:09 PM

Even though they haven’t officially moved up the date I am confidant Mr Peacock got the message.
by ramsfan 4:09 PM

I’m sure it was something he already knew.
by jthomas 4:10 PM

Do you think McLeod is a legit starter or do you think they need to upgrade there?
by Dan in Denver 4:11 PM

After last year, I’d say yes, he’s a legit starter. Not Earl Thomas, but a legit starter.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

When you spoke to Mak Davis about the Raiders moving to Stl, did you get the sense he was being coy (saying Stl is not an option because we currently hav a team) or that he really doesn’t view us as an option. Thanks Jim
by Tom 4:11 PM

He was being coy, and knew more about the situation in St. Louis than he was letting on.
by jthomas 4:12 PM

I agree with you on Petty. Big guy, strong arm, accurate, can throw the deep ball well, smart, good family. I could see the fit. The only knock is lack of speed. I personally would take him before Winston. In what round do you see him going?
by Beano 4:13 PM

I’ve spoken to him a couple of times, once in what basically was a one-on-one setting. I really like the intangibles. He’s got a presence to him.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

There are a lot of similarities between what La Ram fans went through in 94 to what the St Louis fan base is going through now. Difference is Stan has at least spent the money to try an put a winner on the field GF and did not. Not sure how the NFL stops an owner from moving if he fronts a chunk of money to build his own stadium.
by Ken 4:14 PM

Not exactly. The LA Rams weren’t drawing the kinds of fans that are still attending Rams games. And LA wasn’t really doing much to get a stadium built. To me, those are huge differences. And there are the relocation guidelines. You’re not supposed to be able to move a franchise just to enrich yourself. Stan was awarded a franchise in the St. Louis market. Why doesn’t he use that money _ and it would take less than half of what he’s spending in LA _ to build a stadium in the St. Louis market? Oh right. He wants to enrich himself.
by jthomas 4:19 PM

Yeah, but… silver lining. If the 1st tier clause wasn’t there and the Rams were securely continuing there .500 and under ways, no eyeballs would be on St. Louis. The events have certainly given the Post Dispatch, yourself and the Rams national attention.
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 4:19 PM

And that is after all what I live for: National attention.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

S.Well , is he still in place for an emergency plan if Fisher could not addressed the Center spot by training camp ? Is that a possible he still starting ahead of B.Jones ?
by Colin D 4:20 PM

I think the Scott Wells train has left the station.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

Pound for pound, Bradford or Foles for 2015 ? Thanks Jim,
by Donnie 4:21 PM

Who’s better? In my opinion, it would be a healthy Bradford.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

We’d like to see Philip Rivers as the starting QB for your 2016 St. Louis Raiders. Sound good to you?
by Professors Roger and… 4:22 PM

OK, now you’re giving me a headache.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

Jim I am joining the chat late but wondering if you have lowered your odds. I just don’t honestly think there is a 46% chance we keep the Rams.
by Bob 4:23 PM

Yes, I’m down to 43-57.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

If you ask me, given the last few months, we could use a whole lot less national attention and national media in St. Louis.
by Baker 4:23 PM

Amen.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

Jim why did they give up a pick for Keenum if they are going to draft a QB? They wont carry 4.
by Tom 4:24 PM

No. But it’s only a seventh _ in 2016 _ for Keenum. And if Keenum beats out Davis it frees up $1.5M of cap space.
by jthomas 4:24 PM

in your opinion do you think a relocation fee has been floated by the owners and what do you think that number is.
by ramsfan 4:25 PM

I don’t think we’re that far down the line yet.
by jthomas 4:25 PM

Keenum Vs Davis , which one better , IYO ?
by Colin D 4:25 PM

Need to see more. But right now I’d vote Davis.
by jthomas 4:26 PM

Do we have any good news regarding the new stadium for the Rams?
by ramfan 4:26 PM

Rest assured, Peacock & Blitz working on that as we speak.
by jthomas 4:26 PM

Investors wanted: Company set to print “St. Louis Stallions” hoodies to sell outside the Ed beginning in November. Sour grapes? Let’s Purple-Out the dome! Serious inquiries only. 🙂
by Greg, Rams Fan in Maryland 4:27 PM

That would be extremely funny.
by jthomas 4:27 PM

http://www.facebook.com
by PURE ADRENALINE 4:27 PM

YIkes! That’s a different band. (We may have to get our legal team involved. 🙂 You can check out St. Louis’ version of The Few @thefewofficial.
by jthomas 4:28 PM

Will CBS begin showing more Raiders games next year?
by fred 4:29 PM

You should contact KMOV.
by jthomas 4:29 PM

Any change that either J.Long or S.Well will come back for a much “friendlier” contract after all the dust had settled ?
by Colin D 4:29 PM

Doubt it.
by jthomas 4:29 PM

Jim I am confused by this early vote in October. So the Ram could play half their home games after the move approved? Would you still cover the games? What about post-game interviews etc…It will be a joke Does the league want that distraction?
by Sam 4:30 PM

Nobody said it be as early as October. Probably more like November or December. And that would be the window to apply for relocation opening, not a vote, as I understand it. But it would be awkward to be sure.
by jthomas 4:31 PM

If the Peacock group secures public financing, what would your “Rams Stay” percentage be? More than 50-50? Or would it make an impact at all?
by chicago_rams_fan 4:32 PM

Yeah, I think it would hit 50-50. Maybe more.
by jthomas 4:32 PM

do the raiders play in st. louis this year?
by st. annramsfan 4:32 PM

No. (Unless they come in for a preseason game.)
by jthomas 4:32 PM

What day is the chat next week?
by Tom R 4:33 PM

Yeah, sorry. We’ve been bouncing around more than usual this offseason. But we’re shooting for our usual Tuesday time next week.
by jthomas 4:33 PM

What kind of salary Peacock & Blitz get from working this kind of project , I’ve always wondered ? I know its A LOT ,but what’s the roughly estimation ? And who pay them ? Thanks Jim .
by Colin D 4:33 PM

Peacock’s working for free. Blitz is getting paid. But I’m not sure how much or from whom.
by jthomas 4:38 PM

Just got on sorry if this covered. JS mentioned that you coincidently were in an elevator with Stan and asked about an interview? Is that true and can you give us details on what was said and not said? Non verbal communication as well like a snirky smile?
by JOHNJ314 4:39 PM

That might have been my colleague from the city desk of the Post-Dispatch that was in the elevator, David Hunn. But I have been turned down dozens of times for interview requests over the last 3-plus years from Kroenke.. And continue to request interviews. . . . OK, I’m going to sign out for this week. Thanks to one and all for playing. . . . .We’ll be back in our regular Tuesday 1 p.m. slot next week.
by jthomas 4:41 PM