Rams chat with Jim Thomas

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_48?Page=2

Any of the UDFA standing out so far?
by Gladdy 2:03 PM

Deantre Harlan, the DT from tiny Bacone College in Muskogee, Okla., has shown some quickness on the interior. Alex Bayer, the TE from Iowa, isn’t spectacular at anything, but does a lot of things well. At this point, I think he has a chance at the No. 4 TE job _ assuming the Rams keep 4 TEs. RB Trey Watts, has a little wiggle and some burst. Those are just a few.
by jthomas 2:05 PM

JT – what’s the word on E. Westbrooks? Is he injured – starting to hear less about him and more about Sam.
by BigDawg 2:06 PM

You haven’t heard anything about Westbrooks because he hasn’t been practicing. He’s on the non-football injury list. He gets that designation because the injury occurred away from Rams Park. He suffered a hamstring injury while training on his own during the summer break.
by jthomas 2:07 PM

How have the draft picks look so far – mostly Donald and the RB from Auburn (forgot name)
by Charles B 2:07 PM

Aaron Donald, the DT from Pittsburgh, looks very, very good. He’s very quick. It’ll be interesting to see how he does going against the o-linemen in pads. That starts today, in the first full-squad practice in pads. Tre Mason, the RB from Auburn, also has looked impressive. Quick feet, good instincts. Again,, we’ll see how he looks in pads.
by jthomas 2:09 PM

Jim, last week, I asked a somewhat pointed question about Stan Kroenke and for that matter NFL owners: Why do their financial demands go somewhat unchallenged in the press? I mentioned the owner whose books were inadvertently exposed, who’d cried poor so Charlotte would buy him a stadium (I exaggerate), and I noted the “gall” of Kroenke to claim he hadn’t gotten much jack out of a team that went up in value an astronomical amount. At what point does the megawealth of these owners, Kroenke in particular, whose desire to have state, city, and country subsidize him, who charges working people a lot of money to go to a game, for concessions, and parking, become a subject for direct challenge? Or do you consider this outside of sports? Thanks for your thoughts, and thanks as always for your chat–where you show far more level-headedness than I may be doing here.
by Questioner 2:09 PM

You’re missing the point. City, county, and state officials signed off on a lease agreement in 1995 _ long before Kroenke became the controlling owner _ that included the “first-tier” language. They all signed off on it. And now they’re faced with living up to what they agreed on, with an arbitrator’s decision backing Kroenke up. You’ve got his remarks on “jack” wrong. He used that word because he was making fun of a reporter that had used that word in a story. And I believe he used the term, and I’m paraphrasing, because he had put a lot of “jack” into buying the team.
by jthomas 2:14 PM

How has Donald looked so far? From what I hear he’s as advertised?
by Walt the SF Rams fan 2:15 PM

Maybe better than advertised.
by jthomas 2:15 PM

saw SEA just signed OL Winston. with their OL, SF’s holduts/injuries and ARI losses/suspensions – can Rams make a move this year?
by BigDawg 2:15 PM

Yes, they can. And I’m sure they will.
by jthomas 2:15 PM

Hearing Donald is a terror – cant be blocked on 2nd unit, giving starting OL fits as well.
by BigDawg 2:15 PM

Your hearing is good.
by jthomas 2:15 PM

bailey played really well on special teams last year, with his 4 game suspension who could replace him at gunnnner
by indianaramsfan 2:16 PM

Not sure yet.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

Based off of what you have seen so far, does the parade meter stay the same.
by Ben S. 2:16 PM

Parade meter still at 9 at this point. And let’s review the rules. Heeding the advice of a chatter a year ago, the Parade Meter can change only up to the first game of the regular season. Then it’s set in concrete for the rest of the year, for better or worse.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

How do Bradford and Long look coming back from their ACL injuries – especially Long?
by Charles B 2:17 PM

Bradford was a little rusty Friday. But he was better on Saturday, and looked really sharp on Sunday. He’s moving around well; doesn’t seem to be favoring the knee at all. Jake Long is doing individual drills, but no “team” drills at this point. He seems to be moving well in the drills he participates in. The plan is to gradually work him into game-day form, and possibly play in the second or third preseason game.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

Jim, I know it is early but could you give a couple names of some undrafted rookies who look good so far and might have a chance to stick on the 53. Thanks.
by Bull 2:20 PM

Bull, always good talking to you. Hope all is well. I mentioned a few in one of my earlier answers: DT Harlan, RB Watts, and TE Alex Bayer. At this point, I think Bayer has the best chance of the three to make the 53. Greg Reid’s had some moments at CB.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

Is Laurenitis the next incarnation of Pisa Tinosamoa? Great skills. Great heart. Smart. A little too undersized to be a great pro at the linebacker position?
by Stepherino 2:24 PM

Nothing against Tinoisamoa, who was very productive but as you mentioned undersized. But Laurinaitis isn’t undersized at 248 pounds. Laurinaitis also is extremely durable. He’s only missed a handful of snaps in his first 5 NFL seasons.
by jthomas 2:26 PM

I’ve heard some very early yet concerning reports about J. Jenkins struggling so far. Have you seen the same?
by Gladdy 2:27 PM

He hasn’t looked bad. But more often than not, he’s been in tight coverage and just missed making the play. He needs to make players.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

Jim I am sure you want football questions this time of year. But LA has been all over the news with Sam Farmer’s recent article. Have you adjusted your current 55-45 odds that the Rams stay?
by Jake 2:36 PM

No. I’m still at 55-45. Jerry Jones is the ultimate carnival barker. He usually tells the particular audience what they want to hear. And does have a team training in California at the moment and is trying to sell T-shirts and concessions there. Remember, Jones made some similar remarks last year at this time. I don’t think Goodell is serious about the league building a stadium there. I think he said that just to gig the market _ to try to get some momentum going.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

What are the odds the Rams move back to LA? In my opinion you are the most sane voice in St. Louis on this question. You still have it 55-45 they stay?
by Sam 2:40 PM

And Sam, I’ll continue this LA discussion with you: So I don’t think the LA market is any closer to having a team than it was five, 10, years ago. But does that mean St. Louis should just sit on its rear end and do nothing? Obviously, no. Because sooner or later you have to think LA will have its act together. And when that happens, it will be too late for St. Louis.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Am I ready to be a productive starter?
by Boom King 2:41 PM

Not this year. But keep working. By the way, I love that nickname Boom King. One of my favorites of all-time.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Who will be the FS/SS that draws the assignemnt to cover the TE or slot WR? Do Rams have FS/SS who can cover on the team?
by BigDawg 2:42 PM

Usually it’s the strong safety who gets the TE.. And that would be T.J. McDonald. Usually it’s the nickel back who gets the slot WR, which would be Lamarcus Joyner. We’ll see. But I do think it’s fair to question the coverage skills of the safeties at this point.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

What do you make of Brian Quick with the starting unit?
by Sam 2:45 PM

Well, they’re mixing and matching constantly in practice. I do like that “big” formation they use with Quick, Britt, and Cook _ all 6-3 or taller.
by jthomas 2:46 PM

has stan kroenke completed his purchase of 100% of the rams? as i understood what he intended, he was going to buy one-half of the majority 60% outstanding from georgia frontiere’s children in 2010 and the remainder (the other 30%) later. has this been done or have his plans changed? thank you.
by dwightbillingsly 2:46 PM

I don’t know. Will try to check on it.
by jthomas 2:46 PM

Have you seen anything that would concern you with Bradford.
by Ben S. 2:46 PM

No, although everyone at Rams Park over the weekend gasped the day he scrambled up the middle during a red zone drill.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Jim how would you compare Donald to a young Demarco Farr? Seems that they have a lot of similarities. Thanks
by jnassif 2:47 PM

Yeah, they do have a lot of similarities. Keep in mind, even though D’Marco went undrafted he was no slouch. He was the Pac-10 defensive player of the year coming out. D’Marco has a little wider, how should I put this, anchor.
by jthomas 2:48 PM

Thank you. I may be missing the point on the particular bind at present, but do you think my larger point is off? Really? However much jack he put in, do you think these owners benefit unduly from the their hidden books, their status as an exception to anti-trust, and their ability to blackmail communities at times? I do, and I wonder if you haven’t missed my point–I mean this gently.
by Questioner 2:49 PM

Of course they do. But I don’t really get your point. Are we supposed to be mad at Stan Kroenke because he has a lot of money, and wants a chance to make more? He only has the ability to “blackmail” as you put it St. Louis, because of the language in the lease, which he had nothing to do with.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

Will Alexander or Joyner be sticking/starting at Safety this year?
by Walt the SF Rams fan 2:51 PM

Joyner should be the nickel back. Alexander, especially with his late start because o knee surgery, projects more as a special teamer this year.
by jthomas 2:51 PM

is there anyone that can challange Janoris Jenkins for his starting spot? the man needs a wake up call.
by st.annramsfan 2:51 PM

Not at this point.
by jthomas 2:51 PM

Winston would have been a good insurance policy for Long, guess they didn’t want a big NFLPA presence in the locker room?
by BigDawg 2:52 PM

The Rams have a pair of highly-credentialed backup tackles in Greg Robinson and Rodger Saffold.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

What are the odds the Rams wind up leaving after the lease expires. I hear the Governor on the radio this morning and he sounded evasive and then you have Jerry Jones spouting off. Jim this ain’t looking good.
by Sonny 2:52 PM

If they leave, I don’t think it’ll be right after the lease expires this year. I think the Rams will go several seasons on a year-to-year lease before anything happens.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

Jim, have you heard some good news on the Rams staying in St. Louis? I heard you say on 920 “the needle has moved”! Thanks.
by Keith 2:54 PM

I don’t know if you’d call it “good” news. I think it may be a sign that some discussion has taken place. But I’m not really sure, and have no details behind it.
by jthomas 2:55 PM

JT – How is OG Robinson looking – thought the plan was to keep the OL set and figure out LT if Long wasn’t ready to go. Reading that they are shuffling everyone on OL. Also no mention of B. Jones in the mix….
by BigDawg 2:55 PM

Robinson looks pretty good; has had some blips on pass-blocking, especially working at LT. As for keeping everyone at the same position, I remember that from OTAs, and that’s basically what happened in OTAs. I think they’re just getting GRob some reps at LT, and giving Saffold a refresher course there as well in case Long isn’t ready. As for Barrett Jones, he’s been getting reps with the first_ and second unit at center.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

I saw a few notes from camp the other day about Britt, Quick and Bailey making some nice plays but all seemed to be at the expense of J Jenkins. Is pass/catching combo much improved at the start of camp or is Jenkins really looking like he’s taking a step backwards? I know it’s small sample but our DB’s are large concern going into the season. Thanks
by TD51 2:58 PM

I don’t think Jenkins looks as bad as some apparently have indicated. In fact, from what I’ve seen _ and I’m not watching him every play _ he looks average to me. Not bad. But I think the entire secondary as a whole remains a big question mark.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Jim – predicition for surprise veteran cut we don’t see coming…?
by HomeBoy 2:59 PM

Got nothing for you at this time. And usually I’m surprised too.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Jim, During the four pre-season games I want to see in this order: 1) No injuries 2) Have the WR’s taken the next step in maturing into realizing their potential and 3) What do we have behind the front 7 on defense in the DB’s and what Greg William has done to help that talent. What are the top three things you want to see during pre-season?
by STLFootball 3:00 PM

Hard to disagree with your list. I think you’ve hit the big three.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Going into the draft we all were concerned with the OL, WRs, and defensive secondary. I am still concerned because we do not know if any draftees/ maturing players will contribute immediately (and with our schedule I think those first 3 games are key). Make me feel better please.
by tom 3:01 PM

A healthy OL should be pretty good. Too early to tell on secondary and WRs. That probably doesn’t make you feel better. But at least the weather is great.
by jthomas 3:02 PM

Will Bradford work much in preseason or will team protect him for regular season opener?
by HomeBoy 3:02 PM

Fisher hinted pretty strongly before the start of camp that Bradford probably wouldn’t play in the opener. But that’s as far as he went on that. Since he hasn’t played in a game since October, you’d think Bradford would have to get at least some work in preseason.
by jthomas 3:04 PM

Jim, immense thanks for these chats. If Rodney McLeod gets injured today, who is his replacement tomorrow? Do you think special teams will be a little crisper at season’s start because of more returning ST players? How often do Rams’ practices have referees? Many of Robinson’s Auburn highlight reels seem close to holding. Any concern for that issue in camp?
by George 3:04 PM

That’s a good question on McLeod. And I think it’s still getting sorted out as camp and the preseason progress. Off the top of my head, Joyner could move back there. I do think special teams should be crisper, meaning fewer penalties at the start of the season. Usually refs come in for a few days. As for Robinson holding, I remember some draftniks mentioning that pre-draft. I can’t say that it’s come up in camp.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

Jim, heading to practice this afternoon. Curious about your thoughts on the state of the team now. I get the impression from seeing Fisher’s interviews recently he has an aura of confidence that this season he has the “horses” to be a very good team this year. I’m not saying the team will go 12-4 or even 10-6; catastrophic injuries (see Sam Bradford) always impact a team’s year. I just think he knows he can go into any game with the very good chance of winning (and that includes San Fran and Seattle)……..Thoughts?
by Jim L 3:07 PM

Fisher likes this team _ that’s the sense I get. Whether he’ll feel that way in October or November remains to be seen.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

Can any of the current RBs be trusted on 3rd down? Who can pass-pro and catch passes out of the backfield?
by HomeBoy 3:12 PM

When I think about it, I don’t think I can flat-out give you one name. There’s a lot of unproven in the backfield when it comes to third down. Stacy improved his pass-blocking as the season went on, and is so-so as a pass-catcher. That’s about as far as I can go.
by jthomas 3:13 PM

I know it’s early but I’m jumping to the 2015 draft Bradford had a great season in ’14. Out of what you seen so far in training camp (which isn’t much) what position are you looking at with our first pick in 2015? CB or Safety or somewhere else? I know it’s way to early but what the hell. Thanks Jim!
by The future is now 3:13 PM

Yeah, just a tad early. But as we sit here today, I’m still looking or help in the secondary in the 2015 draft.
by jthomas 3:15 PM

ARE THE RAMS MOVING? YOU MUST HAVE AN INKLING. TELL US PLEASE!
by Sonny 3:15 PM

ALL CAPS ALWAYS IMPLIES URGENCY TO ME. OR OVER-CAFFEINATION (SP?). BUT I’M STICKING WITH 55-45 AT THIS POINT.
by jthomas 3:15 PM

what’s your early gut feel on work load % of Stacy/Mason at RB? 80/20 mix or do you see Mason getting a little larger than 20% touches? Any anticipation of Tavon getting maybe 2-3 touches out of the backfield or is that just a crazy dream considering Schotty is making the calls?
by TD51 3:16 PM

I think the mix will be closer than 80/20 _ maybe 65-35. Just a guess. It’s possible Mason could be worked in slowly in the early games. And you have to factor in that this is still a position of flux. As good as Stacy was last year, it’s not like he’s been the established back for several years. Who knows, by midseason, maybe Mason is the starter. And don’t forget about Benny Cunningham.
by jthomas 3:19 PM

Jim, good day, do you think Aaron Donald starts the season as a starter over Kendall Langford? Also, how does Alex Carrington look so far? As always, much appreciated…
by ekern55 3:19 PM

I think Langord and Brockers open the season as starters, and Donald comes into the rotation on passing down. Haven’t watched Carrington a lot _ remember, there’s 90 guys out there. The few plays that I have, he has looked just OK. But the coaches, particularly Waufle, really like him.
by jthomas 3:22 PM

Jim- Have heard a lot of chatter about Donald, but not too much about Robinson. I know he was somewhat drafted on potential, but would have thought his size and quickness would have stood out by now if he was as good as advertised, ie next Larry Allen. How has he looked to you?
by RamsFan62 3:22 PM

There’s been a fair amount of chatter on Robinson actually. But he’s the type of player whose plusses will stand on more in pads when his size and strength should shine. There aren’t many fully-padded practice in camp under the new CBA, but today is one of them. So far, Robinson looks fine. As I’ve mentioned several times (in print, on the radio, etc.) he has had a few blips in pass-blocking, but when he’s playing LT _ which he has a lot so far in camp _ he’s been going up a pretty good one in Robert Quinn.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

real talk are we going to be awful again?
by spencer 3:26 PM

Rams could be mediocre again, but they haven’t been awful since 2011.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Who will Rams be battling for NFC wildcard? SF/SEA, ARI, CHI, PHI, WAS, ATL?
by WhatWhat 3:26 PM

An optimist are we?
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Hello, Jim. I know hindsight is 20 / 20 but if you could have had the benefit of a crystal ball before last year’s draft and seen the NFL today. Would you pass on little Tavon Austin and take someone like Kenny Vaccaro?
by Doctor Moreau 3:27 PM

No, I liked Tavon Austin a lot coming out. And would still take him.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

55-45 moving? Or 55-45 staying? Also, is Bradford really being pushed or are they handling him like a porcelain doll? What is his over/under on games played this yr?
by OverdrawnAgain 3:27 PM

55-45 staying _ which is what I’ve been saying for months. As for your second question, I’m not sure what you mean? Defenders aren’t allowed to touch the QB in practice. Bradford is, however, throwing lots of passes with defenders coming at him.
by jthomas 3:29 PM

I know the jury is still out, but if you had to lean one way or another, is Bradford the answer or the problem?
by will 3:29 PM

Bradford was playing well when he got hurt. I think he can be an effective NFL quarterback.
by jthomas 3:30 PM

Jenkins going to be the top corner in the league over sherman?
by J Heat 3:31 PM

Now that’s a real optimist.
by jthomas 3:31 PM

Hi Jim after all the pre season hype I’m going with the Rams at 9-7 and making a wild card spot. What’s your prediction?
by Ramster 3:31 PM

We’re on the same page Ramster. Right now, I’m thinking 9-7. Don’t know about that wild-card, though.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

Are there visible differences between williams and waltons D, or is the difference in the way the scheme is coached.
by Ben S. 3:33 PM

The simplest way I can put it, is that Williams’ defense will be more aggressive. Especially on third down. Especially when it comes to blitzing.
by jthomas 3:34 PM

If long can’t go, will GRob start at LT or Saffold?
by J Heat 3:34 PM

I don’t know if that has been determined yet by the staff. But it seems more logical to put Saffold over there at LT and keep Robinson at LG at this point. That’s because your third guard is Davin Joseph, who has basically played his whole career at right guard.
by jthomas 3:37 PM

I hear EJ Gaines has generally been unimpressive, yet I feel like he’s one of those guys who is just a football player and will be better when in really starts….do you get the sense he’s falling too far behind already to really get a chance?
by brian 3:37 PM

First off, I always steer clear of these sweeping generalizations especially early in camp. It’s impossible to keep track of 90 players in camp. You may see a player have three or four good plays at one point practice, and then later on be watching a different group when that same player gets burned or knocked on his rear end. Gaines has a good chance to make the squad and play special teams at this point.
by jthomas 3:41 PM

I feel like social media shows Jenkins as a partier, would you be interested in doing an interview to see how he sees his role at the senior member of the DB core?
by J Heat 3:41 PM

And we all know if it’s on social media _ it’s money. Yes, we will interview Jenkins at some point.
by jthomas 3:42 PM

Since no one else has asked yet I will ask the obvious question – does Michael Sam make the 53 man roster – or practice squad?
by Charles B 3:42 PM

The longer Ethan Westbrooks is on the non-football injury list with a hamstring injury, the better Sam’s chances become. Sam is off to a pretty good start so far.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

Hey Jim, do you believe EJ gaines is a starter before the end of year ?
by Johnny 3:43 PM

Can’t see that happening at this point.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

Any FAs out there worth bringing in or do they wait until to see what they have on roster? Realistically, how many spots are up for grabs on final 53? Maybe 5-8.
by HomeBoy 3:44 PM

I think the team wants to look at this roster _ these 90 players _ barring injury.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

Last year I thought the Safety play was terrible, McDonald got alot of good props but I didn’t see it, especially on coverage. Like McLeod but feel same about him as starter, do you see both those guys starting again this year and do you think highly of McDonald too?
by indianaramsfan 3:44 PM

McDonald and McLeod are the starters. McDonald was shaky before his injury, but I thought he played pretty well when he got back.
by jthomas 3:45 PM

Is TJ Moe practicing full speed with the team? Or is he doing individual work?
by J2edrum 3:45 PM

Moe is going full speed and doing everything in practice.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

L. Joyner is fast becoming one of my favorites on the team. Is he a younger version of Cortland Finnegan.
by Ben S. 3:46 PM

He has the potential to be a better version of Finnegan _ I mean Finnegan in his prime. (And without the Finnegan histrionics.)
by jthomas 3:47 PM

happy to be back in the States from the island nation of Malta; even though this is the third year of rebuilding … are we rams fans expecting too much of the team to be a playoff contender and is this THE YEAR for the current regime?
by blueyedstevie 3:48 PM

Welcome back. No, I think being a playoff contender should be the expectation in Year 3 of this regime.
by jthomas 3:48 PM

Jim – can you name one player injury in NFC West that would change the whole picture for all teams, who is the biggest difference maker in the West?
by HomeBoy 3:49 PM

Great question. I think Marshawn Lynch makes it go or Seattle. Carson Palmer for Arizona. Tough call for San Fran, but not have NaVorro Bowman is huge. But I I’m going to pick an NFC West MVP, based on last season, I think I’d go Earl Thomas.
by jthomas 3:51 PM

Looking at the picture above your name I wondered, could this be the last ride for Steven Jackson.
by Ben S. 3:51 PM

Nice. You’ve got me chuckling. I don’t know what to tell you, except that your looking for an updated banner, eh?
by jthomas 3:52 PM

I saw a segment where Kenny Britt did some special teams work. If he was brought in to be our number 1 or number 2 WR, would it be a smart move to use him as a returner? sounds like that would be risky
by Biz 3:53 PM

There’s no guarantee that he’ll be a No. 1 or No. 2 receiver. He certainly wasn’t paid to fill that role. And if he’s not, there’s nothing wrong with having him contribute on teams.
by jthomas 3:54 PM

C.Reynolds getting any running back snaps?
by griz 3:54 PM

He may have gotten a few during 11-on-11. And he obviously works with the RBs during individual drills. But we all know if he makes the team again, it will be for special teams.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

What’s with Rams and Warner? Seems like team has not really reached out and honored only QB in STL Cards/Rams history to lead BOTH teams Superbowl. Is he HOF player?
by JTChat 3:57 PM

I think Warner gets into the Hall of Fame first ballot. He’s up for selection for the first time after this season. As for the Rams and Warner we all know about the divorce with Martz. Spagnuolo and Linehan didn’t want anything to do with the Greatest Show players. As for the Ring of Honor in the Dome, I think initially it was meant to be for Hall of Fame players (and coaches) only but that changed somewhat over the years. I’m sure Warner’s name will be up in the Dome at some point.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

Hey Jim I could ask you questions all day. I appreciate you taking the time to do these chats. Any UDFA running backs turning heads that could possibly unseat Pead? I know Pead is getting a lot of work with the 2’s & I’m sure Chase is a long shot of staying with the team now that Mason was drafted.
by The future is now 4:01 PM

I think the Rams are very happy with what they’ve got at running back with Stacy, Mason, and Cunningham among others. Trey Watts has shown a little something as well. I they keep
four backs _ not counting Reynolds _ it would have to be Watts that unseats Pead.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

Where can we find the open practice schedule? Thanks
by Larry M 4:03 PM

Time to go watch practice. Talk to you all next Tuesday.
by jthomas 4:04 PM