JT chat 6/2

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_91?Page=0

Any survey results from Peacock or the Team owners? When should we expect some news?
by Jack Reynolds 2:05 PM

Hello again, everybody. As for survey results, nothing yet that I’m aware of.
by jthomas 2:05 PM

Jim – With the flurry of activity surrounding the owners meetings – including the possibility of a special meeting just to discuss St. Louis – and, the lawsuit, what’s your current stay percentage? Are you encouraged or discouraged?
by McGarrett 2:05 PM

I’m still at 43-57
by jthomas 2:06 PM

Hi Jim. Any updates to the story hat Stan was going to sell the Rams to his wife to meet the cross ownership rules. I know the NFL does whatever it wants when it comes to owners, but is that allowed? I’d like to know how that will impact the possible move to LA.
by STLFootball 2:06 PM

That was an old story, from at least a couple of years ago, that got published by mistake.
by jthomas 2:06 PM

so, with the lawsuit (whatever it is) are the rams as good as gone?
by steve r 2:07 PM

I wouldn’t say that. Not at this point.
by jthomas 2:07 PM

What’s your take on the demolition at Hollywood Park on Sunday? Do you think it was just Stan staying one step ahead or do you think the NFL basically said “hey, you’re going to win so why don’t you go ahead and start building”?
by flyguy 2:07 PM

Not much of a read on it either way. No matter what, the Hollywood Park facility was going down.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

I won’t ask for specifics, but do you or any member of the PD staff have information about the future of Rams football in St. Louis that you are unable to divulge to the public? A simple Yes or No answer will suffice.
by Turf Toe Jones 2:08 PM

Of course.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

Will Trey Watts remain a Ram after this suspension? How about Pead? Keep him around for some extra competition?
by AzRams`Fan 2:08 PM

Watts needs to have a very good training camp in order to give the Rams’ coaches something to think about. As does Pead. Obviously, Watts’ suspension opens up another opportunity for Pead to stick around.
by jthomas 2:10 PM

Does the team generate enough money in the region to justify staying? Or the inverse?
by willeyeam 2:10 PM

I think so.
by jthomas 2:10 PM

Jim – Any updates on Gurley’s health yet?
by Ryan 2:10 PM

Nothing yet. We’ll know more later in the week at the open OTAs.
by jthomas 2:11 PM

Was there any Rams offer to Joe Barksdale that was better than what he received from San Diego?
by Turf Toe Jones 2:11 PM

Both the Rams and Atlanta offered more money.
by jthomas 2:11 PM

IF both healthy, Bradford out performs Noles or vice versa?
by Don 2:11 PM

I’d say Bradford. But the “if healthy” is a monumental “if.”
by jthomas 2:12 PM

I keep reading the Rams drafted “road graders” and they’re a ground and pound team….”Gradest Show on Turf”? Kind of catchy if they can really run the ball.
by AzRams`Fan 2:12 PM

Yeah, which I believe is what they’ve been trying to do for 3-plus years.
by jthomas 2:12 PM

Do you think Peacock and Blitz should have just pushed for a public vote?
by c_good 2:12 PM

I know time is of the essence. And I realize it takes money to launch a campaign. But I don’t know why they didn’t try a vote first.
by jthomas 2:13 PM

What will Garcia’s role be?
by willeyeam 2:13 PM

He has the title of offensive assistant. It’s an entry level position and involves a lot of grunt work. It’s not a high-profile position.
by jthomas 2:14 PM

Do you think Nick Foles can lead the Rams to the playoffs?
by Big Dave 2:14 PM

If Foles stays healthy, the young offensive line produces, and the defense plays up to its press clippings _ yes.
by jthomas 2:15 PM

Hi Jim I just saw the Tre Mason Wired of his 3TD game vs OAK & he seems like a super exhuberant & likeable but humble well grounded guy with high character. He & Gurley could be big together yeah?
by Sacramento Ram 2:15 PM

Yeah, it’s just a matter of finding enough work for both _ and Gurley getting healthy.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

When do you think we will hear more news regarding the stadium from Peacock?
by Mark 2:16 PM

Hard to say. Perhaps when all the land is assembled.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

Does Cody Davis make the team this year??
How about Christian Bryant?
by mikeq 2:16 PM

Barring injury, McDonald, McLeod, and Barron are locks. I would think Alexander would be close to a lock because of his draft status (fourth round). That leaves one spot if the team goes with five safeties. And at this point I think Davis would have the edge over Bryant.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

Has the season ticket sales dropped from last year at this time?
by Mark 2:18 PM

From what I have been told, yes, ticket sales are down although I can’t give you a percentage.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

take this with a grain of salt but I know a guy whose son is involved with the development of NFL stadiums. He says the STL stadium is a done deal with Raiders/Chargers to Carson and Jags will be pushed to London once their lease expires (2020s I think).
by stlrams4ever 2:19 PM

Clip and save.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

I think the biggest obstacle is stan contributing what he needs to for the stadium to go forward. No indication he will. Your thoughts. Thanks
by Paul 2:19 PM

It will be interesting to see how this shakes out. What if the NFL approves the Carson site? What other choice will Stan have.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

With all the moves made on the o-line, staying the course at WR, and total overhaul in the QB room, I think we may see more of the wide open offense that they tried in the beginning of ’13 as opposed to the G&P they are trying to sell. Thoughts?
by willeyeam 2:20 PM

No chance.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

If Stan is forced to stay he will have to contribute monies towards the new stadium, that is if he wants owners to vote for him to take over the Broncos when the time comes.
by Terry 2:21 PM

Something like that.
by jthomas 2:21 PM

Is there a large amount of technique difference between run blocking and pass blocking as an o-lineman? When someone is good at one but not the other, is it seen as a difficult transition to become good at both?
by Jason Vorhees 2:22 PM

Well, run-blocking takes more strength and power. Pass-blocking takes more athleticism and footwork. I know that’s a big generalization, but that’s it in a nutshell. Of course, there are also line calls, blitz pickups, dealing with stunts and blitzes that must be taken into account as well in pass blocking. This mental part can be just as difficult for incoming college players as the physical part.
by jthomas 2:25 PM

People keep saying Stan may be “forced to stay” as if something is “forcing” him to leave (besides the $$). Am I missing something?
by willeyeam 2:25 PM

No, but it’s clear he wants to leave.
by jthomas 2:25 PM

The national perspective on the Rams’ WR corps still seems to be that there are no real playmakers. Why do Snead/Fisher feel good about their options on the outside especially considering Quick has still yet to prove he is 100% healthy?
by Tackleberry 2:26 PM

They’re banking that Quick will pick up where he left off, that Britt will continue to play like he did last year, and that Austin and Bailey continue to improve. Plus, they have a pretty good idea of what to expect from Cook and Kendricks at tight end. And they’re hoping they’ll be catching passes from a first-string QB most if not all of preseason.
by jthomas 2:30 PM

any word on how the 3 FA RB’s, Brown Laskey and Franks looked during rookie camp?
by Run Ram Run 2:30 PM

Nothing yet. Today was their first full practice and was not open to the media.
by jthomas 2:30 PM

Do you think Bradford will have a tougher adjustment to the philly O, or foles to the STL O? Thanks
by Paul 2:30 PM

I don’t think it’ll be too tough for either. Remember, Bradford has his former OC as a rookie, Pat Shurmur, in the same role in Philly. So that will make the transition easier.
by jthomas 2:31 PM

Jim: I have hopes for more simple offense with better execution… have you interviewed the New OC yet … any insights to how he thinks? Everyone knowing what to do on every play was a problem at times for the rams.
by Jeff In Utah 2:31 PM

Yes, I wrote a couple of stories on Cignetti right after he was hired. He’s run-oriented, yet flexible. His overall philosophy isn’t that different from Fisher. He does want a simpler playbook with simpler terminology.
by jthomas 2:33 PM

Jim – Is it just me or has the Raiders to STL chatter died down considerably?
by McGarrett 2:33 PM

Two factors at play here. The seeming progress of the Carson project, and Mark Davis saying he was not interested in moving to St. Louis.
by jthomas 2:34 PM

Any word on pending FA Justin Blalok?
by Matt in SC 2:35 PM

I’ve heard nothing in the way of updates at this point.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Jim, if I gave 500 million each to St. Louis, San Diego, and Oakland for stadium construction, would I be on Stan’s Christmas card list?
by Jimbo 2:36 PM

No sir.
by jthomas 2:36 PM

The player on offense with the most potential to gain pro-bowl/all-pro status is ______
by willeyeam 2:36 PM

A healthy Gurley. And probably a healthy Saffold.
by jthomas 2:36 PM

Hi Jim, If you were Nick Foles would you make sure your insurance policies are up to date? The ol could be very painful for him.
by Rick 2:36 PM

He needs to get the ball out quick.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Roger Saffold: Any hopes of him playing RG, not LG this year .. he is great pulling to the left from the right side, looked lost, slow, tentative pulling right from the left ..
by Jeff In Utah 2:37 PM

I guess it’s possible. We’ll see where he lines up in OTAs.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

So what’s your take on Policy spearheading the Carson project? Seems like he is openly challenging Kroenke to prove why he deserves to be in Los Angeles and not the Chargers/Raiders.
by Den 2:37 PM

Policy certainly gives the Carson project more credibility, and he still has contacts in the league.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

i don’t understand why you would not share all the information you have about the rams stadium situation with your readers. this is not national security nor are any lives at stake. public dollars are being spent for this stadium development effort. why withhold information you have that we don’t have from this discussion?
by branford76 2:38 PM

Over the course of a story, any long-term story really, you are told things by sources that are off the record. In order to develop those sources, you have to play ball to a certain extent. You have to build up an element off trust.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

What do you mean by “clip and save” ??
by stlrams4ever 2:40 PM

In other words, remember it, and let’s see if it’s true in a few months.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

I’m looking through Cignetti’s Bio and I see he was with Cal Bears and DeSean Jackson when they were averaging 33 points a game. Do you see him opening up the offense (a little) and utilizing Austin and bailey in the same fashion, or is Fisher going to keep a tight leash on the offense?
by PURE ADRENALINE 2:41 PM

Again, I believe the basic philosophy won’t be much different.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Over/under 45,000 in attendance for opening day?
by Dr D 2:42 PM

I’ll say tickets distributed will be over. Not sure about actual in-house attendance.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

Hi Jim, Thanks for all that you do for the cause of professional football for St. Louis! I keep picking up bits and pieces from Twitter sources, Post Dispatch and others that the NFL behind the scenes is more than frustrated with how Mr. Kroenke has gone about his business through all of this. Is there anything to that? Thanks and Go ST. LOUIS Rams!
by Dan, the Lineman 2:43 PM

I think there’s something to what you’re saying. Whether it turns out to be a major factor in how things unfold, I’m not sure.
by jthomas 2:44 PM

If Carson gets approval and the Rams have to stay in St. Louis, does Kroenke say “I don’t want to spend $450 million on a new stadium. Keep playing in the Dome.”
by Tom R 2:44 PM

Don’t think he would turn down an opportunity to play in a new stadium.
by jthomas 2:44 PM

In house attendance barely 40K, you can take that to the bank
by Dr D 2:45 PM

We’ll see.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

How much do you expect Foles to play in preseason? Will he need more reps than a holdover starter?
by Ryan 2:46 PM

You would think so, but Fisher in the past has been pretty conservative about playing his top starters very much in the preseason.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Jim, Jack Robinson says he was the best player on the Blue Raider’s in ’03. No way that can be true. The dude was a Little League bench warmer, right?
by Kevin 2:48 PM

Jack was a very good all-around player, but no one could punt and run the bases like Kevin Robinson.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

Do you think there are any negative effects from the Rams waiting to start OTAs later than every other club in the NFL?
by Benadict Arnold 2:49 PM

No.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

Fisher’s decision to jettison SB or front office?
by Don 2:49 PM

I wonder about that one. Only because even Fisher was telling close associates that he thought the Rams would get a deal done with Bradford.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

Just for the record. I am a DIE HARD RAMS FAN in California. When they moved to St. Louis I was deflated, But I stick with my TEAM, not the owner, and I hope all the RAMS FANS in St. Louis would do the same if they moved back to California. But I do understand if they jump ship if Rams are back in Cali and another team moves into St. Louis. But for now GO RAMS wherever they end up!!
by PURE ADRENALINE 2:51 PM

If another team had moved into the market in 1996, or shortly thereafter _ say that expansion team LA was supposed to get that became the Houston Texans _ would you have remained a Rams fan.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

Suppose the Rams do leave, should St. Louis be entitled to all or a part of the “relocation” fee extracted by the NFL to help replace lost tax revenue and jobs? Or will that money just be divvied up between the other B/Millionaire owners?
by Benadict Arnold 2:52 PM

That money goes to the owners and the league. St. Louis won’t see any of it.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

How close does Kronke stay on the operations of the team?
by Don 2:53 PM

I assume you mean day-to-day operations. He’s pretty aware of what’s going on. But let’s face it, it’s not the same as having an owner on site most of the time.
by jthomas 2:53 PM

JT – Why no Sunday or Monday night Games for the Rams? Do you think attendance was a part of the decision?
by Captain Obvious 2:54 PM

Lack of success, I’m sure, was the main issue.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

I know this probably gets asked every chat, but any insights into the Blalock situation? Hurt? Asking too much? Moved beyond?
by Michael 2:55 PM

Just not in a hurry to sign. Looking for the right fit. And we’re not talking about Will Shields here, although his experience would be a plus.
by jthomas 2:56 PM

Good Day Jim, Now that the Rams D is loaded over or under 60 sacks for the season?
by OzyRamsFan 2:57 PM

60 is a big number. I’ll say under.
by jthomas 2:57 PM

Hi Jim, what’s your opinion on this late start to OTAs? Good common sense move or gimmick?
by steve 2:57 PM

No big deal. They’ve started this late the past couple of years under Fisher.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

Have you heard what’s to become of the Union Light & Power Building? I think the art work showed this a Rams team store but this is too big a building for only a team store. I’m thinking a Rams themed bar/restaurant would be great. At Lambeau Field in GB they have Curly’s and I’m thinking we could have something like that. I haven’t heard any details on this building. Are they holding out on that to potentially use that as a bargaining chip for Stan Kroenke?
by Terry 2:58 PM

I think that’s all to be determined. The team’s got to be here first.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Granted the financing is finalized, I would be shocked if the owners voted to leave 400 million in public dollars on the table and let Stan move the team. One owner is quoted as saying Goodell won’t let that happen. To be at 43-57 they are leaving while there is plenty of optimism Peacock will get it done, you must know something we don’t that is very negative towards the deal getting done. Any hints?
by stlrams4ever 2:59 PM

Why should I change the percentage until something happens in terms of financing and land acquisition? It makes no sense.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Will you attend the Rams games as a reporter IF they move to LA?
by Sam Bentley 3:00 PM

That’s not really my call. Up to my editors. Perhaps the opener in LA.
by jthomas 3:01 PM

Jim – I’m 100% behind the Rams getting a new stadium, but I am curious why you only hear about old stadiums being a problem in certain cities. The Buffalo Bills play in a stadium from the 70’s and you never here about it. Why is it an issue in certain cities but not others?
by Ryan 3:01 PM

The Rams have that “first-tier” clause in their stadium lease. That’s what’s forcing this whole relocation issue _ not the condition or age of the stadium.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Best season Mariota or Winston?
by Don 3:03 PM

Winston. Has better talent around him.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Which of the recently drafted rookies will start/make a meaningful contribution, in your opinion. Put differently, who should I watch for among them?
by MJ 3:03 PM

Check back with me in mid-August.
by jthomas 3:04 PM

WHEN DO THINK THERE WILL AN ANNOUNCEMENT ON THE POSSIBLE MOVE TO LA BY THE RAMS? BEFORE DEC. OR EARLY NEXT YEAR? AND IF THEY DON’T MOVE DO YOU THINK THE CHARGERS OR RAIDERS WILL BE HERE IN 2016
by LAFAN 3:04 PM

I think we’ll have a pretty good idea by the end of the calendar year.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

Jim, What happened to the lawsuit filed in St. Louis. I thought that it was to be held last week. Any updates.
by Ramsfan 3:05 PM

The initial hearing was canceled last week, per judges request. I think he was under the weather.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

If Carson works out, can Kroenke keep going year to year at the Dome, to see what other opportunities pop up in the next 5 years? (London?)
by bh 3:06 PM

That’s an interesting thought. In theory he could, but why would he turn his back on the possibility of a new stadium.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Your predictions on NFC West?
by Don 3:07 PM

1.) Seattle; 2.) Arizona; 3.) St. Louis; 4.) San Fran.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Is the Post-Dispatch moving into another building downtown? Do you have a desk there? Or do you basically work from home and Rams Park?
by Rock15 3:07 PM

Yes, we’re moving to another building. Haven’t had a desk there in years. Work either at Rams Park, on the road, or occasionally at home.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

Hey Jim,
Do you stay in touch with former Ram players?
Could you call Kurt, Isaac or Marshall if you wanted to?
by isiah58 3:08 PM

Of course.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

In regards to the Rams staying or going. What do you need to see that would change your % one way or another?
by DJM34 3:08 PM

Concrete news on land acquisition and financing.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Does it concern you that Atlanta chose former Ram Mike Persons over Justin Blalock?
by Tom R 3:09 PM

No.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Jim hopefully Fisher has the team ready to play against Seattle. First game last year they did not look ready. Been to training camp the last two years; looks like a country club atmosphere. They do not seem to work that hard. Any Thoughts?
by Bart 3:09 PM

It was shocking how unprepared the Rams looked in last year’s opener. Hopefully that changes this year.
by jthomas 3:10 PM

Permalink
They’ve been unprepared each of the last 3 seasons.
by Dr D 3:11 PM

Well, they won their opener in 2013 vs. Arizona.
by jthomas 3:11 PM

Why is Bill McLellan writing that the stadium deal is dead? Does he have Goodell in his hip pocket?
by Rock15 3:12 PM

I would expect nothing less from Bill.
by jthomas 3:12 PM

Jim – Guessing land acquisition would come before financing. Both in fall or land in late Summer?
by McGarrett 3:12 PM

Yeah, land first. I would think that could be done by end of summer.
by jthomas 3:13 PM

Your choice owner like Kronke or Jones?
by Don 3:14 PM

I’d take Jones any day.
by jthomas 3:14 PM

Hi Jim–are you more or less optimistic about the Rams than you were before the draft and the Bradford/Foles trade?
by c_good 3:20 PM

About the same.
by jthomas 3:20 PM

Hey Jim, Is the best chance of the Rams staying here turning out to be the Carson Project? If that is approved, will StanK then set his eyes on buying the Raiders or Broncos in your opinion? Thanks
by STL45Fan 3:20 PM

Certainly, St. Louisans hoping the Rams stay here should be rooting for Carson. If Carson happens, there’s no guarantee Davis will sell the Raiders. Denver would solve Stan’s cross-ownership issues, but there are no guarantees Broncos will sell either. Stan could be stuck with the Rams.
by jthomas 3:24 PM

Welcome back, Jim! Missed ya! I’m hearing reports that T Rob Havenstein and G Jamon Brown were over drafted by as much as 3 rounds early? Have you seen same? Can you report on contrary scouting?
by bfulton 3:24 PM

I don’t know if Havenstein was over-drafted, but I’d say Brown was. But not by three rounds.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

Jim – If the Rams leave would the post start covering the Chiefs?
by Ryan 3:26 PM

Doubt it.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Did the Rams always intend to target DT Fairley or was that a surprise opportunity? Did it throw original plans to sign, say, free agent Olinemen?
by bfulton 3:26 PM

I think Fairley was in their plans all along. I don’t think it affected any plans to sign offensive linemen.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Any Bud Sasser sightings? I have heard that he wasn’t around Ram’s Park much since the rookie orientation.
by joe 3:28 PM

Last I was told, he still hadn’t passed physical, and thus hasn’t been cleared to play.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

As we all try to see the future, which forthcoming step do you think will be the most telling indicator of a move? Before any official announcement of course.
by Jack Reynolds 3:29 PM

To a large degree, I still think this is in the hands of the stadium task force. If they get the land, and nail down the financing, I believe the Rams have a good chance of staying. If they don’t _ say good-bye to the Rams in St. Louis. This should crystallize in the fall.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

Jim, With Fisher not liking to start rookies on opening day, how many rookies start the opener on the O line 0,1 or 2 ?
by OzyRamsFan 3:34 PM

I’m going with 1 _ Havenstein.
by jthomas 3:34 PM

How sincere do you think Stan Kroenke was when he stated how dedicated he was to St. Louis when he gained full ownership of the team in 2010? It seems odd that his “dedication” would evaporate just over the failed negotiations with the CVC.
by Freddy Kreuger 3:34 PM

He seemed sincere at the time. He hasn’t been very patient since.
by jthomas 3:35 PM

Hi Jim, I saw a stat that 2nd round pick Havenstein benched 225lbs 16 times at the combine. That seems extremely low he a guy that weighs 330. Makes me wonder how he’ll do against linemen that are a lot stronger than him. Hopefully I read it wrong….do you recall what it was and if true, what that might mean for him at the next level? Thanks!
by Greg 3:37 PM

No, 16 is the correct number of reps at the combine for Havenstein in the 225-pound bench press. You’d expect more for someone with a road-grader reputation.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

Maybe the QB change will show if Bradford was the issue or not. But I’m very happy with our WR group. I won’t be surprised if our points score total is up 20 – 25 this year.
by PURE ADRENALINE 3:39 PM

It might. But I think the early concern is whether there will be enough protection for Foles with such an inexperienced offensive line.
by jthomas 3:40 PM

Thanks for the chats JT! Always engaging. Though there are a myriad of scenarios that could play out ultimately regarding the Rams staying or relocating, it seems to me that if SD is able to negotiate a new stadium site for the Chargers, the Carson deal is dead. Then, Inglewood becomes the choice of preference for the NFL and thus the Rams. Assuming that the Raiders can’t finance a stadium in Carson alone, what could possibly deter the owners from approving Kroenke’s project? Thoughts?
by Knux 3:41 PM

I’ll have to see it to believe it on the San Diego stadium front.
by jthomas 3:42 PM

Can a team in so much turmoil, will they stay or will they go, be able to focus enough on the game to make a run to the playoffs?
by bjf 3:42 PM

That’s the question isn’t it?
by jthomas 3:42 PM

Hopefully the defense decides to play 16 games this season. I live in Philly and saw Foles play. If he gets time he is great. Do u think the OL aqusitions in the draft will give him that time
by mla 3:43 PM

Very debatable whether OL draft picks will be able to give Foles enough time this year.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

Can Stedman Bailey beat out Quick on the outside, or is his primary competition with his former MVU teammate in the slot?
by YoMurphy 3:44 PM

I believe the Rams coaches would prefer Quick in the starting lineup because of his size.
by jthomas 3:45 PM

In 2005, when Georgia waved her right to the stadium clause that the Dome had to be in the top quartile, was the Dome out of the top quartile at the time do you think? And, is there a legal document that was written, filed, or signed waving the right to this and I’m wondering what was written by the Rams about that and does it have any bearing on the case the Rams are trying to make now.
by Terry 3:45 PM

There were so many stadiums built or massively renovated between 1995-2005, I don’t think the Dome would’ve been in the top 8 in 2005. I don’t know if there was anything in writing by the Rams waving that right.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

You think Stan might just be using Inglewood as leverage to get a new stadium in St. Louis? Or is Stan hellbent on LA.
by Keith 3:48 PM

I believe Stan is way past the leverage stage.
by jthomas 3:48 PM

Hi Jim, Connecticut Rams fan since 1973, Why not go for it and put a retractable roof on the St.Louis new stadium Say to get a Super Bowl?
by Tim m 3:48 PM

If you do that, then you’ve got to come up with an extra $300 million. The Task Force is having a tough enough time getting to $985 million.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

Permalink
Have read the discussions regarding the Rams losing Chris Long after this season due to cap considerations. Seems as if we are just getting close to putting together a competitive team, then we face losing some of the talent we’ve accumulated over the years. Fairley will also be a possible loss. Any others that come to mind?
by Michael 3:49 PM

Janoris Jenkins, Trumaine Johnson, William Hayes, Eugene Sims, Rodney McLeod, and Brian Quick also have contracts scheduled to expire after the 2015 season.
by jthomas 3:50 PM

Do you think Fairley is a long term starter for the Rams or just this year?
by Terry 3:51 PM

I’m gonna say a one-year rental. If he plays really well, the Rams will have a tough time keeping him beyond 2015.
by jthomas 3:52 PM

JT…good coverage, considering the 800 pound gorilla, in the room…how is the Marketing Team going to “sell” The Rams…? Or, since it’s the NFL, it won’t matter…???
by Norm Van Brocklin 3:53 PM

I think we’re all curious to see how many fans actually show up once the games start.
by jthomas 3:53 PM

would it seem most players want a move or do they comment?
by Don 3:55 PM

I’m sure a lot of the younger, single players would enjoy playing in LA.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

Jim, will you be at the Coach Fisher Softball Event? and I want to remind all the Rams fans to come out and have a good showing of support so we can keep the Rams in St.Louis beyond 2015.
by Terry 3:56 PM

I have a radio show obligation from 6-7 p.m. that day, but may join the festivities in progress..
by jthomas 3:56 PM

This is all going to come down to if the financing is in place by the time the big decisions are going to be made isn’t it? StLouis gets the financing=Owners vote for Carson…none in place=Inglewood it is?
by Shackleferd 3:57 PM

Don’t know how often I can stress it _ financing is key.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

I DO NOT RECALL SEEING AUSTIN, BAILEY AND GIVENS ON THE FIELD AT THE SAME TIME, THAT WOULD BE INTERESTING WITH MASON AND GURLEY IN THE BACK FIELD AS WELL. HARD TO DEFEND. WOOPS SORRY FOR ALL CAPS 🙂
by PURE ADRENALINE 3:58 PM

Well, Givens was barely on the field at all last year, so you’re probably right.
by jthomas 3:58 PM

We find endless optimism for OL draft picks but forget about candidates like B Jones. If he’s healthy, shouldn’t he be ready to step in and be at least better than Wells?
by flagthrower 3:58 PM

It looks like that’s the plan _ for Barrett Jones to have first crack at starting job.
by jthomas 3:59 PM

Any chance San Diego and St. Louis get stadium deals done locally, and the NFL decides to expand to LA giving Kroenke the rights to own the expansion team?
by Kip 3:59 PM

There is no movement for expansion in the league at this time.
by jthomas 3:59 PM