JT chat….3/18

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_82?Page=4

Will you be at the NFL Owner’s Meetings next week? How will the lobbying go between Kroenke, Spanos, and Davis and the rest of the owners? Earlier it was reported that Kroenke does not have the votes to move, is that still the case?
by Dan in Denver 2:06 PM

Yes, I will be attending. I don’t think anyone would describe Kroenke as a schmoozer, but I’m sure he will be trying to press his case. I still think he doesn’t have the votes. Perhaps now even more so than before, given the developments in Carson with the Chargers and Raiders, and the progress in St. Louis.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

Any free agent OL in town?
by Rams41 2:08 PM

None that I’m aware of.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

Do you know how their cap situation is?
by tony 2:08 PM

The Kenny Britt contract has yet to be posted with the league. But when it is, the Rams will be about $11 million under the cap.
by jthomas 2:09 PM

1. Do you think that Dave peacock is aware of an owner willing to buy the Rams from Stan. Have you herd of an owner?
by kioken10 2:09 PM

1.) I’m sure he knows who had the money to do such a thing in our town. But I can’t say that he’s actively seeking out potential buyers. 2.) Too early to tell. Let’s see if any progress is made in Carson.
by jthomas 2:11 PM

Hi Jim, what would be your ideal O-line combo given the cap and upcoming draft assuming Wiz, Blaylock, Barksdale are still available?
by steve 2:11 PM

Sign two of the three among Wiz, Blaylock, and Barksdale. Pick two offensive linemen in the first three rounds of the draft.
by jthomas 2:13 PM

Jim–What a week. It raises roughly one million questions…
-Strangest week you’ve had covering football in St. Louis?
Has Fisher given you any explanation (other than at the press conference) as to why he misled you (and all of us) about Bradford/Foles? Do you
by c_good 2:13 PM

Last week? Not even close. Just a couple of examples. 1.) Drafting Lawrence Phillips and trading Jerome Bettis on the same day. 2.) Tony Banks skipping team flight from Miami, then not really apologizing for it, then Georgia Frontiere coming out to practice and speaking to Banks. Followed by a heartfelt Banks apologize. 3.) Leonard Little and the drunken-driving fatality. 4.) Sean Landeta getting cut on Thanksgiving and announcing his release in the locker room that day. . . .I could go on. As for any further explanation on Bradford/Foles _ the answer is no.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

Jim–do you think Bradford’s camp felt misled about the possibility of a trade? It really seemed plausible to me that they would enter the season with Bradford, [Hundley/Petty/another surprise draft pick], and Davis on the roster at QB.
by c_good 2:18 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

Jim – Do you sense the Fisher/Snead combo will use the (4th) draft to focus on more complete players and less developmental projects? Taking Quick over Jefferies, Robinson over Matthews being two examples.
by MCINDC 2:18 PM

No. They have always been about measurable, potential, and ceilings for players. I don’t think that changes.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

Aside from all the unfortunate subterfuge (i.e., lying), do you think it was a good trade?
by c_good 2:19 PM

In the short term, it looks good for the Rams (because of the second-rounder). But I can’t say if they’re better off with a trio of Foles, Davis, and Keenum at this point than they were w/last year’s trio of Bradford, Hill, and Davis. Maybe a fresh start is the best thing for Bradford _ and also for Foles, for that matter.
by jthomas 2:21 PM

Hey Jim. Thanks for the chat. Was wondering if you read Bernie’s piece about coach Fisher the other day? I kind of feel the same way. We need to score points to win & JF has a history of coaching teams that don’t. I think he’s taken this team as far as he can which is very respectable. Your thoughts?
by Mike 2:21 PM

Yes, I did read Bernie’s piece. The Rams need to come up with another TD a game basically to be a true playoff contender. Otherwise, the defense has to be truly dominant. I still think there’s room for improvement with this team. Some of the younger players _ those w/2 or 3 years now in the pros _ have to start producing at a higher more consistent level.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

Hi Jim, any possibility Steven Jackson comes back to Rams as a short yardage/red zone power back? Given his experience, would he not make a difference in the pass blocking of Nick Foles?
by Carl 2:24 PM

I can’t see that happening.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

Hi Jim. How far apart are the Rams and Barksdale? Has he had any interest from other teams?
by Rick from MI 2:24 PM

They were far apart at the beginning. I don’t know if anything’s really changed since then. I have heard nothing in terms of other teams being interested in Barksdale. It’s been very quiet on him. Strange.
by jthomas 2:25 PM

Is there any pressure from Foles camp or hope from the franchise to give him a long term deal? Will the Rams still spend a high draft choice on a QB? Since QB is always a crap shoot, via injury if nothing else, I hope the team keeps acquiring more options.
by bfulton 2:25 PM

I have heard nothing on a multi-year deal with Foles. But why should we expect something on that, given the fact that Foles missed half the season in 2014 and really didn’t play that well? I don’t think that would be the ideal negotiating position for Foles and his agent; and I’d think the Rams would want to see more of him as well.
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Jim, based on the Ram’s Free Agency moves, is it safe to assume they are taking OL 1st round no matter what and likely in the 2nd round also? Love picking up Fairly.
War Eagle.
by Tex 2:27 PM

Well, we’re only nine days into free agency, so there are still potential moves to be made. But it sure looks like at this point that the Rams need at least a couple of offensive linemen in the draft.
by jthomas 2:29 PM

Mr. Thomas, With Long, Quinn, Donald, and Fairely getting after the QB, who is going to stuff the run when Brokers is not in there. Thanks
by Dick Bass 2:29 PM

I would think that Fairley and Brockers would be in on most run downs.
by jthomas 2:29 PM

Good Afternoon Jim!! Have you heard or know of any potential that Rams will be getting a visit form Wisniewski? Also, do you have any inklin of other free agent or via draft, OL Rams could or should be interested in?
by PURE ADRENALINE 2:31 PM

The agent has consistently told me that a visit is possible. Late last week, it became “very possible.” But still unaware if a visit has actually been scheduled.
by jthomas 2:31 PM

Do you know of anyone the Rams is about to sign for the o-line or what’s the situation there?
by tony 2:31 PM

Appears to be stuck in neutral. We’re definitely in the second wave of free agency. Most of the big money has been spent, and as each day goes by, there’s less money available. After the owners meetings next week in Phoenix, most teams turn their attention to the draft. In the case of Barksdale and Wisniewski, it appears they miscalculated their worth in the open market. Sometimes that means swallowing your pride and taking what you can get. I can’t say for sure that that’s the case here _ but it sure looks that way.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Any sense of if Rams are prioritizing resigning Barksdale? Signing Wisniewski? Signing Blalock? Do you prefer the Rams address these positions (C, RG, RT) via free agency, given the options, or the draft?
by bfulton 2:35 PM

Don’t know if there’s any prioritizing going on. But it would be very optimistic to think you could find three offensive line starters in the draft.
by jthomas 2:36 PM

Hey Jim,
You are the best!
Have you spoken to your “trusted source” that told you Bradford was staying?
by Isiah Robertson 58 2:36 PM

When the head coach tells you to your face _ just you and him _ 24 hours before the start of free agency that Bradford isn’t getting traded, you tend to believe it.
by jthomas 2:39 PM

Have the Ram wide receivers ever apologized or expressed regret for promoting “the hands up, don’t shoot” lie?
by vikelt 2:39 PM

Wow. This one is out of the blue. I think they’ve said what they wanted to say on that situation _ about four months ago.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

Hi Jim. Any word if the Rams are still looking at retaining W-ski from Oakland @ center “O” line, or will they fill that position via draft ? Thanks for your time.
by Mike 2:40 PM

Minus Wisniewski or some other free-agent center, I think Barrett Jones could be the starting center in 2015.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Jim – Is it just me or is the starting 11 on defense pretty much set except for competition among the top 3 CBs?
by McGarrett 2:41 PM

I’m seeing what you’re seeing buster.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Jim – thanks for doing the chat! Looking at last weeks chat, things changed in a hurry. Foles/Bradford + draft capitol equals a big win/win on this trade for both parties. My issue is that Snead seems to exceed on the trade side, but then misses in the draft. Your take?
by MCINDC edited by jthomas 2:42 PM

Well, you do make a good point. It’s great to have that extra second-round pick. Hopefully, the Rams won’t use it on, say, the next Isaiah Pead.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

Have the Rams started bringing in players for the draft and if so, do you know who they are?
by tony 2:44 PM

I’m not aware of any pre-draft visits at this point. But it is about that time, isn’t it. Usually almost all of those visits come after the owners meetings (which is net week).
by jthomas 2:45 PM

How comfortable are they with the FS position?
by tony 2:45 PM

I think they’re very comfortable with the starter, Rodney McLeod. Not sure about depth, although the backup could be Lamarcus Joyner.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

Is Foles better than Bradford?
by AzRamsFan 2:45 PM

I think Bradford is a more skilled quarterback than Foles. But it’s hard to show that if you’re not on the field.
by jthomas 2:46 PM

If Philadelphia trades Bradford and he plays for another team this season, would we owe Philadelphia a 3rd or 4th round pick next year? In reports I saw it stated that Philadelphia would get the Rams 3th or 4th rd picks next year depending on Bradford’s playing time with PHILADELPHIA. If that wording is correct and Philly trades Bradford, wouldn’t we by default owe Philly a 3rd even if Bradford plays 100% for the new team?
As I understand, the reported return compensation that the Rams would owe depending on Bradford’s playing time is: a 3rd if playing time is zero, a 4th if playing time is less than 50% or no pick if playing time is greater than 50%.
by Rev Deacon 2:47 PM

Don’t think it works that way. It’s all tied to if or how much Bradford plays in 2015 _ not which team he’s with.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

Hi Jim, Thanks for the chats. Question regarding O-Line – in your opinion will the Rams move to grab 2 of the 3 available line options that they seem to favor in FA – Barksdale, Blalock & Wisniewski? And which of those three do you feel is the most valuable. I think the center is probably the most desirable.
by LARamsFan67 2:49 PM

At this point, I think the Rams probable have only enough money to sign two of the three in free agency. Not sure if I’d say the center position is the most desirable _ good tackles are hard to find.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

Jim, In the scenario where Kroenke decides to move the Rams unilaterally against the NFL’s wishes where would the Rams play during the years long court battle? In that scenario do they move to LA and fight the league there or remain a lame duck franchise in limbo here?
by Roger 3:02 PM

I would think the team would play in LA during all this, unless Goodell throws himself in front of the moving trucks. 🙂
by jthomas 3:03 PM

If Mariota is there at 10, would the Rams draft him?
by Dan in Denver 3:03 PM

They’d be silly if they didn’t.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Probably the question of everyone else on here… what are we going to do about the OLine? Ideally I feel like the plan would be to sign 2 of 3 between Wis, the guard from Atlanta, and Barksdale, and then draft a starter and depth. Do we have the cap and how do you see this shaking out? I don’t have faith in our current OL personell outside of GRob and Saffold.
by kentucky kid 3:15 PM

Yeah. Barring some further juggling of money, I would say Rams could address 2 of 3. They have Garrett Reynolds in for visit today (27 starts in 6 seasons), but given his background I don’t think he’s really the answer as a starter. The Rams have only 7 o-linemen under contract right now: Robinson, Saffold, Jones, Rhaney, Washington, Baker, Bond. That’s a little scary.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

What do you make of Kevin Demoff’s comments from last night regarding relocation ?
by stlrams4ever 3:18 PM

You know, I read some of them on-line from our stltoday.com fan forums. But I was in Carbondale yesterday at the Southern Illinois pro day. What exactly did he say?
by jthomas 3:19 PM

What is Steven Jackson’s path to find an NFL job? Will he have to wait until training camp for injuries to occur?
by Roger 3:19 PM

Maybe. He’s certainly not going to make a lot of money this time around.
by jthomas 3:19 PM

What is the status with Barkesdale?
by LARICK 3:19 PM

Wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up back w/Rams. But nothing new.
by jthomas 3:19 PM

How surprised were you by the Eagles bringing in Tim Tebow for a workout?
by Roger 3:19 PM

Nothing surprises me w/Chip Kelly.
by jthomas 3:20 PM

with the LA Times editorial lambasting kroenke, the anti stories from the labor front. anti flight spot etc… why no coverage of the anti kroenke LA Times editorial and seems to me odds are in favor of Rams staying… a bit more
by blueyedstevie 3:20 PM

I think we ran something on the labor issue. Didn’t see the editorial. When did it run?
by jthomas 3:21 PM

Who are you thinking the Rams will target in the first round? Do you think a QB is still on the table in round 2?
by Gary in Pennsylvania 3:21 PM

Right now, I’d say offensive line. With the addition of Foles, I don’t think anything changes in terms of QB.
by jthomas 3:21 PM

I wish someone would pay me to work out. And I would do it for much less than 500K.
by Dave 3:22 PM

Yeah, but sooner or later, you have to go tackle somebody.
by jthomas 3:22 PM

When is it time to panic over the offensive line situation? No tender to Barnes and the limited opportunity afforded to Jones tells me what the Rams think about them. That cupboard seems pretty bare, and you can’t draft 3 starting offensive lineman. Shouldn’t we be pursuing someone….at least trying to re-sign Barksdale.
by Steven 3:22 PM

When Barksdale, Blaylock, and Wiz start signing elsewhere.
by jthomas 3:23 PM

Thanks for suffering through these chats JT! Regarding the Foles/Bradford trade……Were you surprised that Condon and Bradford dug their heals in and refused to restructure his contract? Were you surprised that there was actually a demand for him? Did Bradford still get his $3.5 million roster bonus from the Eagles?
by Knux 3:23 PM

Wasn’t surprised that Bradford/Condon dug in their heels, especially once I got an indication of how big of a pay cut the Rams wanted him to take. Pretty insulting. Not surprised there was a demand for Bradford. There was not roster bonus due Bradford.
by jthomas 3:24 PM

Why not get an experienced QB for back up with youth? J. Freeman or Ponder please…
by D_Roks30 3:24 PM

Ponder has signed with Raiders, I believe.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

Is there any other players under contract that could be restructured to allow for more cap space. Would Be nice to fill at least two of the offensive line needs in free agency, then use #10 to take a beast for the other spot.
by bob fan 3:25 PM

Yes. There are a few. Quinn comes to mind.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

With a gang of one’s on the line and the seven playing better… and a year under Williams. Do we break the sack record in 2015?
by ramsfanintx 3:26 PM

Whoa. Pump the breaks a little.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Are the Rams down to only four draft picks this year? 1 through 4?
by boilerbird 3:26 PM

No, they still have five picks. Remember, the 7th they traded for Case Keenum was for 2016, not 2015.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

im, Now that the Rams have signed Fairley how does this affect Alex Carrington and Ethan Westbrooks? Are the Rams still high on Westbrooks’ potential and if so can he play DT as well as DE?
by Ron 3:27 PM

Don’t think Carrington comes back. He was a disappointment last year. Westbrooks is under contract. Don’t think Fairley contract affects his status.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

if Cooper or Mariotta drop to 10, do you take them or still take an O-lineman
by lafan 3:28 PM

Good question. I don’t know how you pass on either Cooper or Mariota.
by jthomas 3:29 PM

Jim, I never saw you show such open annoyance at the Rams (and rightfully so). They really did make you look bad and no fault of your own. Question: in you 20 years working the Rams beat is this the worst you were ever treated?
by Sammy 3:29 PM

Never had a head coach lie to me like that in 21 seasons on the Rams beat. Not Rich Brooks, Dick Vermeil, Mike Martz, Scott Linehan, Steve Spagnuolo, or interims Joe Vitt and Jim Haslett.
by jthomas 3:30 PM

What information, if any, would you expect to come out of the owners meetings next week with regards to the Los Angeles situation…??
by eas0714 3:30 PM

Nothing concrete. At this point, I’m not even sure if it’s on the agenda. But it will be good to hopefully get a feel of how the league and the owners feel about the potential relocation and LA situation in general.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

Has San Fran really taken such a big step back? I know logic says yes but we all thought that on Dallas last year and they went 12-4.
by stlfan 3:32 PM

They did lose a lot of oomph on defense, and say what you will about Harbaugh, he got a lot out of that team.
by jthomas 3:33 PM

Why was there only one rendering released of the LA drawings from Kroenke’s group? The national media always seems to report that STL was playing catch-up on their proposal after Kroenke came out days before the STL’s group was scheduled to release their full proposal with many plans and drawings. Was this one LA picture done in a hurry to make them seem to be the ones in control and leading the process? With one drawing is this all a ploy?
by Dan in Denver 3:33 PM

To my understanding the Kroenke camp found out about the pending release of the St. Louis plans, and purposely announced their plans ahead of StL. That gave the appearance that Peacock and Blitz were reacting to the LA stadium announcement which really wasn’t the case. It helped feed the narrative pushed by the Rams, that St. Louis was moving at too slow of a pace. You know, too little too late.
by jthomas 3:35 PM

Do you think other players will have a hard time believing what Fisher says after the Bradford trade? He had me fooled.
by Gary in Pennsylvania 3:35 PM

I think some players will.
by jthomas 3:35 PM

Your opinion on Fairley signing? Happy to have him but seems like a big amount of cap to use when we still have lots of problems. I’m all for a dominant DL but the OL is pretty important as well…
by stlfan 3:35 PM

It’s a lot of money for a so-called “prove it” contract. Basically they were swapping out Langford for Fairley, and saved only about $1 million in doing so. Fairley does have a lot of talent, but there are red flags as well.
by jthomas 3:37 PM

With a career record barely over .500, a career playoff record under .500 (almost all of those wins came in ’99), is Jeff Fisher the most over rated coach in the league? If this is another typical Fisher season, are we looking for another coach? GM?
by DakotaRamFan 3:37 PM

Kroenke likes Fisher a lot.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

I believe that you mentioned some Rams players were upset about the Bradford trade. Given his injury history and the boon they got for him, however, how bad could this damage the team’s psyche?
by bfulton 3:38 PM

It’s not about injury history, or what the Rams got in trade value _ it’s a matter of how you treat people.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

Jim – I don’t recall similar outrage when Vermiel said that the draft goals in 99 were “shutdown corners” … just before they drafted Torrey Holt.
by McGarrett 3:38 PM

I had the Rams taking Torry Holt in ’99. You can check in my mock from that year.
by jthomas 3:39 PM

Good Day JT, The Bradford trade stunned me, I do believe it appears to be a winner for the Rams if the could use the money for quality FAs. The of OL signing is concerning. But I didn’t like the shell game Fisher and Snead played. The reported offer to Sam of around 5-6 Mil was way to low and kinda insulting. If Sam has a good year and the Rams don’t the Rams leadership deserves the sack!
by OzyRamsFan 3:39 PM

When the pay cut is down to an amount where Bradford/Condon know they can get that much on the open market _ as a released player _ it’s pretty clear the team doesn’t want you.
by jthomas 3:40 PM

Re Barksdale – I know he just got married..is it possible he was giving the Rams the right of first refusal meaning – he would give them a chance to counter any offer…and if the Rams resolve their OL in FA – what does that do their draft strategy WR and QB in rounds 1 and 2
by stlfilmmaker 3:41 PM

I guess it’s possible. If the Rams resolve the O-line in free agency, which will be tough to totally accomplish, it gives them a ton of flexibility in the first round, and the entire draft.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

It is about business. SB had to go to free up cap space since his side was unwilling renegotiate a new contract. Other rams have help open up cap space. Why not SB. At least we got something for him.
by ramsfanintexas 3:43 PM

Sam did re-do his contract, I believe in 2012, to free up cap space.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

Right now, who are the Rams 5 best players?
by Dan in Denver 3:44 PM

Quinn, Donald, Hekker. . . .and then there’s about 6 guys I would consider for the final 2 spots.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

Jim, if Cooper falls to them at 10 how could they pass on him? I know they just resigned Britt and getting Quick back with Bailey and Austin. But don’t you think it would be crazy to pass on such a playmaker? Can never have enough.
by Ross 3:44 PM

Because Jeff Fisher doesn’t like taking wide receivers high in the draft.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

will the rams receive any comp pics? if so; when are they awarded; how many; and what rounds to the rams?
by blueyedstevie 3:44 PM

As is always the case, the NFL will award those picks at the owners meetings _ next week in Phoenix.
by jthomas 3:45 PM

Hi Jim, what would happen if the DE from Nebraska, Randy Gregory, made it to the Rams pick when Scherf, Marriota, Copper, White are off the board. There he is a steal. If we sign 2 OL free agents including Barksdale before the draft, is he too good to pass up then?
by Jack Youngblood 3:45 PM

An interesting scenario. And one that isn’t out of the realm of possibility. The Rams do like compiling pass rushers, so I wouldn’t rule it out.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

Any idea why teams seem to treat everything as if it is a state secret, no matter how trivial, and have to result to CIA tricks such as misinformation when in the case of Bradford it seemed that all of the other teams knew he was available via trade and even many national pundits were saying as much?
by Jerry 3:46 PM

Especially when there’s no need for much secrecy. It’s not like the draft where 31 other teams could swoop in to take the player you desired. (There wasn’t any trade market for Foles.) Also the Rams might have gotten even more interest in Bradford have they even said something like, “we’re considering all of our options.” They were so over the top in the pro-Bradford sentiment, they probably scared some teams off.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

If the Rams finish at or under .500 next year, how do you handicap Fisher being the head coach in 2016?
by vern 3:49 PM

At or under .500, I’d say Fisher’s back. (Barring a 4-12 or worse.)
by jthomas 3:50 PM

Jim is there any way to understand Fisher’s dilemma? He wanted to trade Bradford but wanted to protect Bradford’s ego should the trade not materialize. Given that dilemma are the lies more understandeable?
by Sammy 3:50 PM

Bradford is an adult.
by jthomas 3:50 PM

Jim how will the poorly way you were treated impact your coverage of the Rams? You obviously have to be more cautious in passing on what you hear from Fisher/Demoff/Snead right?
by Sammy 3:51 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 3:51 PM

Jim, the tricky thing about the Foles trade is he’s on a 1 year deal. We really need a decent developmental quarterback, even if Foles returns to 2013 form. Might we be outbid for his services in 2016 with this scenario? Do we have to burn a 2nd round pick on one of these developmental type QBs?
by Jack Youngblood 3:53 PM

If you really like a QB in the second round, I wouldn’t call it “burning a pick.”
by jthomas 3:54 PM

Hi Jim, is the League’s/Owner’s trump on ESK, cross-ownership? That is the elephant in the room is it not? He asked for a 1-year extension was grudgingly granted 6. What are the consequences to him for non-compliance and more importantly is it enforceable?
by tim 3:54 PM

I don’t regard it as a deal maker or deal breaker. But it’s certainly a chip that the league has in its pocket.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

Has J. Long or Wells gotten any offers from other teams; and are either one of them a potential to come back at a cheaper price (fingers crossed the answer is no)
by Replacement 3:55 PM

Don’t think either will be back. Wouldn’t be surprised if some teams looked into Jake Long.
by jthomas 3:56 PM

Had the Rams been offered Cutler for Bradford, would you have made that deal (draft choices notwithstanding)?
by poodbear 3:56 PM

Wouldn’t have done it. Remember, in a trade you’re inheriting Cutler’s huge contract.
by jthomas 3:56 PM

Over under 4000 yards passing this season?
by willeyeam 3:56 PM

I’m gonna put my over/under at 3500.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

Do you think Tavon Austin will finally have a breakout year? Does he have any trade value? Where are you at on the move? Had to ask.
by LeroyB 3:57 PM

I think there’s some renewed optimism that under Cignetti he will be used more effectively. We’ll see. Wouldn’t think there would be much trade value. I’d keep Austin. Still lots of potential there.
by jthomas 3:58 PM

Chris Borland retiring at age 24. Do you see this as an outlier or will more young players follow suit?
by Andy 3:58 PM

I think there will be more, but not to the degree where dozens of younger players suddenly announce they are retiring.
by jthomas 3:59 PM

OK, do you think options like Grayson or Petty are really worth second round picks?
by Jack Youngblood 4:00 PM

Yes on Petty. Not sure on Grayson or Hundley.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Over under 1000 yards rushing by one back?
by willeyeam 4:00 PM

Over on Tre Mason!
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Who’s your starting 4 WR’s this year with current roster.
by PURE ADRENALINE 4:01 PM

Britt, Quick, Austin, Bailey.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

Jim, do you think Brian S. knew the Rams were gonna dump Bradford and move to La and he was like “I’m outta here!”
by Carl 4:02 PM

Nope.
by jthomas 4:02 PM

If Barksdale is signed and we are able to acquire the FA guard released from Atlanta, could we be ok with Barrett Jones as the weak link starter on the line? Maybe his knowledge of the system makes it ok, and didn’t he used to make the line calls for Alabama? Smart player.
by Jack Youngblood 4:02 PM

I think that’s possible. Very possible.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

I read Wilt Chamberlain’s bio where he said he slept with 20,000 women. Who is the biggest ladies man in the history of the Rams?
by Hugh Hefner 4:03 PM

Leslie O’Neal would have to be near the top.
by jthomas 4:04 PM

Are you told a substantial amount of information from the Rams Front Office that you are not supposed to pass on to the public? That would make your anger towards Fisher more understandable.
by Derek 4:04 PM

Let’s move on from this.
by jthomas 4:04 PM

over under on leading the league defensive take away’s?
by ramwrap 4:04 PM

Under. But in the top 10 in plus/minus.
by jthomas 4:04 PM

Joe Namath played for the Rams one year. There’s your ladies’ man!
by BoPat from SoCal 4:05 PM

True.
by jthomas 4:05 PM

Jim, I imagine after all these years you have good contacts with long time Rams employees who speak to you off the record. What do they say about the move to LA? Are they worried about losing their jobs? Are they convinced one way or another about the possibility of the move?
by Phil 4:05 PM

There’s a lot of nervous people in the building.
by jthomas 4:05 PM

Bradley Fletcher just got a contract with the Pats; whatever happened to him here?
by Replacement 4:06 PM

Never played with much confidence.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Do you like the Bradford trade strictly from a player, cap savings and draft picks perspective?
by Derek 4:06 PM

Like I said, short term _ it looks good.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Jim, Does the current est. of $11 mil in cap space include the $3 mil from the Finnegan deal in Miami, or is that still to be added?
by Contrarian 4:06 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

If the OL is set through FA. Could you see CB as a dark horse selection in round 1-3? We have two starting CBs headed to FA status next year.
by Jack Youngblood 4:07 PM

Guess it’s possible.
by jthomas 4:07 PM

Whats going up with Brandon McGee? Is he in trouble to be cut?
by Alex 4:07 PM

He’s the fourth or fifth corner at this part, depending on whether you think Roberson is ahead of him.
by jthomas 4:08 PM

When is there a chance for the team to make a uniform design change. It
by Jack Youngblood 4:08 PM

Be a nice touch for the 2016 LA Rams, huh?
by jthomas 4:08 PM

Jim-with the last 2 injuries of Bradford caused basically by 2 shoves-do you really think he is a viable long term QB possibility for any team? Talent withstanding?
by ScottyD 4:08 PM

Jeremy Maclin had 2 ACL surgeries and caught 85 passes for 1,318 yards last season.
by jthomas 4:10 PM

Who is Garrett Reynolds? Will he be a starter?
by Dan in Denver 4:11 PM

Played his first five seasons with Atlanta then one with Detroit. Only 27 career starts, never started more than 10 games in any one season. At face value, it would seem to be a stretch to have him penciled in as a starter.
by jthomas 4:12 PM

What held Barrett Jones back last year? I was surprised he did not at least get a look at the end of the season when they knew they were not playoff bound. Hard to say what they have when he hasn’t played.
by Rams Fan 4:12 PM

Back surgery.
by jthomas 4:12 PM

Will the Rams keep Stacy? Does he have any trade value? What will his role be if he remains a Ram. Thanks.
by AzRamsFan 4:13 PM

I think the Rams keep Stacy. Wouldn’t think he’d have much trade value.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

Is the Nick Fairly deal an indication of the FO’s view on Brockers? it seems they could have gotten a rotational guy for a bit cheaper
by Replacement 4:14 PM

Interesting question. Maybe they want someone to push Brockers.
by jthomas 4:16 PM

Why have good NFL quarterbacks become as elusive as NBA 7-footers?
by Tackleberry 4:16 PM

Ain’t that the truth.
by jthomas 4:16 PM

What is the latest on Pead?
by Replacement 4:16 PM

He is still on the roster.
by jthomas 4:16 PM

Chances Saffold gets moved to RT?
by Dan in Denver 4:16 PM

I guess it’s possible. But of the three positions he has played for St. Louis _ left tackle, guard, right tackle _ I think it’s his least effect. (Not that he’s bad there _ just so-so.)
by jthomas 4:17 PM

Is Long still an elite DE?
by H. Caray 4:17 PM

I think he’s still very good.
by jthomas 4:18 PM

What do you think about the Scherff/Zack Martin comparisons? Heard it a few times, and it seems to me that signing Wisniewski and Barksdale then drafting Scherff is a good plan. How would you feel if those players were all Rams? Best O-Line given the circumstances?
by Michael 4:18 PM

What you’ve just laid out, to me, would be an ideal scenario. No guarantees, however, that Scherff would be there at No. 10. I’ve seen a couple of mocks that have the Giants taking Scherff at No. 9.
by jthomas 4:19 PM

Jim, can you refresh my memory on this? I seem to remember Fisher being reluctant to take the Rams job if he had to go through another relocation. And Kroenke either sweetened the deal or gave him assurances he wasn’t moving. Was this rumor or fact? Do you know what went down? Could it be that Fisher knows if Kroenke is bluffing or not?Thanks.
by Terry 4:19 PM

I reported back during the hiring process that Fisher was taken aback when he was asked several questions about relocation (what it was like when the Oilers moved). I’m no aware that anything was done to sweeten the deal.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

Do the Rams like Cam Erving from FSU? What is the highest he would go, I’d assume 10 is too high unless we trade down
by Dan in Denver 4:20 PM

I’m sure there’s interest. Yeah, 10 would seem to be too high.
by jthomas 4:21 PM

If Scherff is gone when the Rams draft at #10 what other stud guards would probably be available?
by ronk 4:21 PM

I think LSU’s La’el Collins would be next. He’s a first rounder. But don’t he’s a No. 10 overall.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

Who would have the best chance to win in court? Kroenke vs. The NFL: assuming the NFL follows it’s own rules and blocks the move. City of St. Louis vs. the NFL: Assuming Kroenke is allowed to leave even if St. Louis gets a viable stadium plan? I ask this because it seems to me that the NFL will take the path of least resistance.
by vern 4:22 PM

Sorry, I can’t call that one. Not a lawyer.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

I saw that Atlanta signed Mike Person . Wasn’t he the first lineman off the bench when an offensive lineman was injured. Seemed like a strange early free agent signing
by ramsfan 4:22 PM

Person was like the 7th man for the Rams’ O-line last year. Yeah, strange to see that right out of the box.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

What are the chances of Austin Davis competing for the starting job, or possibly being traded if the Rams pick a QB in the draft? What about Keenum?
by Ramway 4:23 PM

I could see a scenario where the Rams draft a QB, and have Davis and Keenum slug it out for the No. 2 job in camp and the preseason.
by jthomas 4:24 PM

Jim has anyone tried to get a comment from Chip or Lucia about the move? They always supported St. Louis? What are they thinking?
by Phil 4:25 PM

I did talk to Chip on this a couple of weeks ago. But he didn’t want to talk on the record _ i.e., for a story _ so I’ll leave it at that.
by jthomas 4:26 PM

Hi, Jim, Thanks as always for your chat. I detect a change in tone after the Bradford trade, an understandable one since you were effectively deceived; and as you or another pointed out, this is a really bad precedent, affecting also of the sense of trust in the players’ locker room, especially when as you suggested Bradford’s team was also deceived to some extent and offered a pretty insulting reduced contract–I think that was your language. My comment is that I regret this but am glad there’s a bit more scrutiny of Fisher’s judgment. In this case, it’s about his deception of journalists–like Kroenke to my mind (I’m a Missouri boy)–but also about his judgment on how to build a team, a kind of either/or vision in which it’s all defense and the offense can’t be developed as aggressively. I suppose that’s my take, but there’s such profound restraint on imagination and risk-taking on offense–passing–at the same time they select players who would thrive in a riskier offense, such as Austin and of course Bradford. I hope the Eagles go to the Super Bowl.
by Um 4:26 PM

I appreciate your thoughts, but I’m pretty talked out on the subject.
by jthomas 4:27 PM

Any thoughts on Reynolds? I think he may be a decent backup.
by Logos 4:27 PM

That’s kind of how I view it. Third tackle. And under those circumstances, makes sense.
by jthomas 4:28 PM

How much of the Rams does Chip still own?
by Phil 4:28 PM

Nothing. About a year ago, Kroenke took over 100 percent of the team.
by jthomas 4:28 PM

Just don’t understand Rams released Keenum last year and trade for him this year with 7th, what you think?
by PeterL 4:29 PM

It looks a little silly, doesn’t it.
by jthomas 4:29 PM

Really? I thought CHip and Lucia would always retain a small percentage. Even just token? No?
by Phil 4:29 PM

I’m a little surprised too. But didn’t work out that way.
by jthomas 4:30 PM

Do you anticipate if Foles starts the whole season, it’ll be worth the 7 pts you referenced earlier to get the rams over ?
by MJ 4:30 PM

Very possible. . .if he has some blockers.
by jthomas 4:30 PM

I thought I read/heard that if the City builds a new stadium they will get an NFL team regardless of what the Rams do. Am I wrong or is that just wishful thinking?
by poodbear 4:30 PM

Doesn’t quite work that way.
by jthomas 4:30 PM

from Demoff- ““I had a very productive conversation with Dave Peacock before I drove over here,” Demoff said. “I feel good about progress that’s being made, where the process is at. I think there’s a long road ahead for us to figure out what ultimately can happen…I think finally people realized that there was some urgency. I think that was very good for the city. It was very good for our fans…the focus has been giving ourselves better options than we had a year ago. I think when you look at the work that’s been done by the task force to date you feel very good about where the options stand and the actions around St. Louis.”
by stlrams4ever 4:31 PM

Thanks for passing this along. I still take umbrage with the whole “finally people realized that there was some urgency” thing.
by jthomas 4:32 PM

Do you see Steadman Bailey getting an increased role this year?
by Bela 4:32 PM

It’ll be tough if Britt, Quick, and Austin continue as the top 3. But hopefully, the Rams include him in the rotation earlier than they did a year ago.
by jthomas 4:32 PM

If the Rams move, does St Louis still push ahead with stadium?
by Dave 4:32 PM

Maybe a soccer stadium.
by jthomas 4:33 PM