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*** Official 2009 St. Louis Rams Offseason Thread *** (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Bob Magaw
- Start date
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
this time last year, we weren't advertising being radar locked onto chris long... there was a lot of talk about dorsey (in fact, the war room may well have been divided, & the front office may have overruled the scouting dept grades... that said, i'm fine with long... this front office seems to be doing a much better job thinking & acting in unison)... its smart to talk about different OLs, as a contingency plan in case they do want to keep their options open, & as was noted, as a smokescreen so another team doesn't try & jump them for their actual target (which may well be jason smith or monroe)... people say it is hard to get a trade at the top, but the rams reportedly turned down a few trade offers for the 1.2 they used on long (from the saints, not sure about the ravens?)... it would be analogous to blurting out your cards in a poker game... this time of year, most of the language is carefully chosen & calculated disinformation... the "payoff" for telling the truth could be losing a coveted player, recommending stealth & deception... EXPECT actual intentions to be cloaked...
* what do you think is the percentage they still go with a LT? i think somewhere between 60-80%?
* what do you think is the percentage they still go with a LT? i think somewhere between 60-80%?
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TheWick
Footballguy
I think your right on the nose I was going to say 70%...it just makes too much sense, unless they don't have these guys graded as high as what all the pundits do.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
butler/karney dual signing announcement & presser... spagnuolo sounds like a charismatic HC... i think recently the rams were AVOIDED due the front office & coaching staff situation, so it's nice to see players being ATTRACTED for a change...
http://www.ramsrule.com/theoriginalherd/dc...53269&page=
Press Conference:
S James Butler
FB Mike Karney
March 11, 2009
(Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo: Opening Remarks)
“I’m real excited about the two players that we’re going to talk about today. As always though, none of this gets done else we have great support and commitment at the top, so I want to thank ownership. This really doesn’t happen unless we have expertise and hard-working people behind the scenes and that’s where (General Manager) Billy (Devaney) and (Executive Vice President of Football Operations/Chief Operating Officer) Kevin (Demoff) come into play and they were terrific, so I thank them as well. You all know my relationship with (S) James (Butler) goes way back and it’s a special one and I’m delighted that he’s a part of us. His knowledge of the scheme, his experience as a starter and his character in the locker room, in my opinion, will go a long ways, so we’re excited about James and feel real fortunate that (FB) Mike (Karney) was available to us. He’s exactly what we were looking for in a fullback. It only took me five minutes in meeting him to realize he was exactly the kind of guy that we wanted. He’s a committed football player, classy and he’s full of character and a team guy. Now, I have to thank Kim (Karney’s wife) personally, for allowing Mike to come here and visit on basically his honeymoon. Mike and Kim were married on Friday and I just think that was terrific. So a special bonus, we get Kim in the family as well. I’m going to let you talk with these two guys. We’re really excited about both of them.”
(James Butler: On how much having Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo here affected his decision in choosing the Rams)
“I think it was the biggest part of the decision. Coach ‘Spags’ gave me my first opportunity to be a starter in the league and he helped my career grow, so I felt that I wanted to go along with him with the Rams.”
(On if this deal was close to happening for a while or was he talking to other teams)
“I was talking to other teams, but in the back of mind, I was going to be here. We just had to work things out. It just took a little longer than expected, but everything worked out for the best and I’m excited. I’m excited about the path about to be taken with the Rams.”
(On if he told his agent this was were he wanted to end up)
“Oh definitely, from the beginning when Coach ‘Spags’ gave me a call I knew that I wanted to be here. It’s the best opportunity for me and I’m excited.”
(On how much lobbying CB Tye Hill, S Oshiomogho Atogwe and CB Ron Bartell did during this process)
“I tell you what, I think Coach ‘Spags’ had to text them or something to tell them to keep calling me because I got about 1,000 texts from Tye, O.J. and Ron saying, “Are you coming? Are you coming? Are you signed yet?” So, they definitely were texting me. I worked out with them a lot in Atlanta, so we have a little camaraderie together, so it should be fun.”
(On if the other players lobbying for him made a difference in his decision)
“Definitely, it did a little bit, but Coach ‘Spags’ and Mrs.‘Spags’ were the biggest part of it.”
(Mike Karney: On what makes the Rams a good fit for him)
“It’s a great fit, just in meeting with Coach last night and the running backs coach and Billy Devaney, what they’re going to bring here when it comes to not just using my position, but what they’re going to do with the run game. That was a big part. I’m just really excited about it. I’m going to an opportunity to block for another great back in (RB) Steven Jackson.”
(On him being excited about the prospect of playing for the Arizona Cardinals)
“That was all speculation. My first thought was to be here, to come here. Once I met Coach Spagnuolo I was ready to make the decision. He’s a first-class guy. I’m really excited to play for him.”
(On if it’s true that the New Orleans Saints called him on the way to his rehearsal dinner)
“Yeah, unfortunately. That’s the business, unfortunately, but here I am. It’s all about getting another opportunity and one door closes and another one opens and I’m excited about this opportunity.”
(On if the call from the Saints ruined the rehearsal dinner)
“Not at all. We had to just move on from that and focus on the wedding, which we did.”
(On how quickly the Rams contacted him after his release)
“I believe it was Saturday that I got the call from my agent that they wanted to bring me in this week. So, I talked to my wife and she said let’s do it, we have to do it. So here we are.”
(James Butler: On if he thinks he can bring the winning mentality to the Rams)
“Well, I think it’s a mindset and an attitude. It all starts from the top. Just being around Coach ‘Spags’ the past two years, the four years I was with the Giants, those first few years the defense didn’t do well, but Coach ‘Spags’ came with a different mindset, an aggressive mindset and we bought into it. And that mindset is definitely going to come here and it’s going to be a winning mindset.”
(On Coach Spagnuolo from a player’s perspective)
“I think he’s a player’s coach. He’s not one of those guys that is going to holler at you. He’s going to come to the side when you’re not playing well and he’s going to say, look we want you to get this done, we want you to get this done and he’s not going to embarrass you. I think that’s the biggest thing, being a player’s coach and also being tight on the guys when he needs to be. I think those are his biggest assets.”
(On what his role will be, given his previous experience in the defensive system)
“Being in the system for two years, I’m definitely going to make a lot of calls and make sure that all the DBs (defensive backs) are comfortable with the defense and just going to go out there and play. Once the call is made, I’m just going to go out there and play and have fun and that’s what it’s all about.”
(James Butler: On what he sees in the potential of the secondary)
“Man, I am very excited. We have a lot of young players and they’re fast. I might be the slowest one out of the bunch. I might have to start working on my 40s or something. It’s very exciting. We have O.J., he’s been having a lot of interceptions the past two years. Ron Bartell, his arrow is definitely going up. Even Tye Hill, his mindset. He’s working hard coming off an injury, but he’s excited. So, we’re definitely going up.”
(On his relationship with Tye Hill)
“We’re definitely business partners. I hung out with him yesterday. We were just riding around seeing what’s going on in St. Louis. It’s a good relationship and we talk about a lot of things on the business side and off the field, so it’s a good relationship. I think it’s a good fit here with the Rams.”
(On what type of business he is in with Hill)
“It’s the Golden Corral, the one in (Centerville), Georgia. So, if you’re ever in Georgia, give me a call and let me know. All-you-can-eat, good southern comfort food.”
(On how he describes his playing style)
“My game, I’m definitely that guy that’s going to get everybody lined up. Besides that, you have to be smart, you have to do all that to play in the league, but I think I play the game the right way. I approach practice the right way. I just try to roll those sleeves back and play hard.”
(On if he enjoys playing in the box and covering the run)
“I like to do it all. In ‘Spags’ system, you have cover, you have to be in box, you have to do it all. Both positions are interchangeable, so it’s exciting.”
(Mike Karney: On if he was surprised when the Saints released him or was he expecting it)
“Yes and no. It kind of hurt a little bit and we investigated it and eventually it came true, but it is what it is. I had a great five years in New Orleans and they wanted to go in a different direction and that allowed me to be where I’m at today. So, it’s all about the next opportunity, the next chance. I’m happy that it’s here in St. Louis.”
(On how often he replays the game when he scored three touchdowns)
“Not so much in the last couple years. That was a freak deal, that’s not what fullbacks are supposed to do, but that night I got the ball a little bit more than normal. But I know what my position is all about, I know what it stands for. I know what my approach is, my mindset is and I know I’m here to block and get it done for our offense in any way, shape or form. That’s run blocking, that’s picking up blitzes that’s whatever that may be. That’s what I’m here to do.”
(James Butler: On the experience of leading the Giants with a team-high 10 tackles in Super Bowl XLII)
“I tell you what, that’s one of the best experiences of my life to play at the highest level of professional football and just win. Just to win as a team, it really wasn’t about the personal things, but just to win as a team and the way we won was the biggest thing and that’s what I remember.”
http://www.ramsrule.com/theoriginalherd/dc...53269&page=
Press Conference:
S James Butler
FB Mike Karney
March 11, 2009
(Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo: Opening Remarks)
“I’m real excited about the two players that we’re going to talk about today. As always though, none of this gets done else we have great support and commitment at the top, so I want to thank ownership. This really doesn’t happen unless we have expertise and hard-working people behind the scenes and that’s where (General Manager) Billy (Devaney) and (Executive Vice President of Football Operations/Chief Operating Officer) Kevin (Demoff) come into play and they were terrific, so I thank them as well. You all know my relationship with (S) James (Butler) goes way back and it’s a special one and I’m delighted that he’s a part of us. His knowledge of the scheme, his experience as a starter and his character in the locker room, in my opinion, will go a long ways, so we’re excited about James and feel real fortunate that (FB) Mike (Karney) was available to us. He’s exactly what we were looking for in a fullback. It only took me five minutes in meeting him to realize he was exactly the kind of guy that we wanted. He’s a committed football player, classy and he’s full of character and a team guy. Now, I have to thank Kim (Karney’s wife) personally, for allowing Mike to come here and visit on basically his honeymoon. Mike and Kim were married on Friday and I just think that was terrific. So a special bonus, we get Kim in the family as well. I’m going to let you talk with these two guys. We’re really excited about both of them.”
(James Butler: On how much having Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo here affected his decision in choosing the Rams)
“I think it was the biggest part of the decision. Coach ‘Spags’ gave me my first opportunity to be a starter in the league and he helped my career grow, so I felt that I wanted to go along with him with the Rams.”
(On if this deal was close to happening for a while or was he talking to other teams)
“I was talking to other teams, but in the back of mind, I was going to be here. We just had to work things out. It just took a little longer than expected, but everything worked out for the best and I’m excited. I’m excited about the path about to be taken with the Rams.”
(On if he told his agent this was were he wanted to end up)
“Oh definitely, from the beginning when Coach ‘Spags’ gave me a call I knew that I wanted to be here. It’s the best opportunity for me and I’m excited.”
(On how much lobbying CB Tye Hill, S Oshiomogho Atogwe and CB Ron Bartell did during this process)
“I tell you what, I think Coach ‘Spags’ had to text them or something to tell them to keep calling me because I got about 1,000 texts from Tye, O.J. and Ron saying, “Are you coming? Are you coming? Are you signed yet?” So, they definitely were texting me. I worked out with them a lot in Atlanta, so we have a little camaraderie together, so it should be fun.”
(On if the other players lobbying for him made a difference in his decision)
“Definitely, it did a little bit, but Coach ‘Spags’ and Mrs.‘Spags’ were the biggest part of it.”
(Mike Karney: On what makes the Rams a good fit for him)
“It’s a great fit, just in meeting with Coach last night and the running backs coach and Billy Devaney, what they’re going to bring here when it comes to not just using my position, but what they’re going to do with the run game. That was a big part. I’m just really excited about it. I’m going to an opportunity to block for another great back in (RB) Steven Jackson.”
(On him being excited about the prospect of playing for the Arizona Cardinals)
“That was all speculation. My first thought was to be here, to come here. Once I met Coach Spagnuolo I was ready to make the decision. He’s a first-class guy. I’m really excited to play for him.”
(On if it’s true that the New Orleans Saints called him on the way to his rehearsal dinner)
“Yeah, unfortunately. That’s the business, unfortunately, but here I am. It’s all about getting another opportunity and one door closes and another one opens and I’m excited about this opportunity.”
(On if the call from the Saints ruined the rehearsal dinner)
“Not at all. We had to just move on from that and focus on the wedding, which we did.”
(On how quickly the Rams contacted him after his release)
“I believe it was Saturday that I got the call from my agent that they wanted to bring me in this week. So, I talked to my wife and she said let’s do it, we have to do it. So here we are.”
(James Butler: On if he thinks he can bring the winning mentality to the Rams)
“Well, I think it’s a mindset and an attitude. It all starts from the top. Just being around Coach ‘Spags’ the past two years, the four years I was with the Giants, those first few years the defense didn’t do well, but Coach ‘Spags’ came with a different mindset, an aggressive mindset and we bought into it. And that mindset is definitely going to come here and it’s going to be a winning mindset.”
(On Coach Spagnuolo from a player’s perspective)
“I think he’s a player’s coach. He’s not one of those guys that is going to holler at you. He’s going to come to the side when you’re not playing well and he’s going to say, look we want you to get this done, we want you to get this done and he’s not going to embarrass you. I think that’s the biggest thing, being a player’s coach and also being tight on the guys when he needs to be. I think those are his biggest assets.”
(On what his role will be, given his previous experience in the defensive system)
“Being in the system for two years, I’m definitely going to make a lot of calls and make sure that all the DBs (defensive backs) are comfortable with the defense and just going to go out there and play. Once the call is made, I’m just going to go out there and play and have fun and that’s what it’s all about.”
(James Butler: On what he sees in the potential of the secondary)
“Man, I am very excited. We have a lot of young players and they’re fast. I might be the slowest one out of the bunch. I might have to start working on my 40s or something. It’s very exciting. We have O.J., he’s been having a lot of interceptions the past two years. Ron Bartell, his arrow is definitely going up. Even Tye Hill, his mindset. He’s working hard coming off an injury, but he’s excited. So, we’re definitely going up.”
(On his relationship with Tye Hill)
“We’re definitely business partners. I hung out with him yesterday. We were just riding around seeing what’s going on in St. Louis. It’s a good relationship and we talk about a lot of things on the business side and off the field, so it’s a good relationship. I think it’s a good fit here with the Rams.”
(On what type of business he is in with Hill)
“It’s the Golden Corral, the one in (Centerville), Georgia. So, if you’re ever in Georgia, give me a call and let me know. All-you-can-eat, good southern comfort food.”
(On how he describes his playing style)
“My game, I’m definitely that guy that’s going to get everybody lined up. Besides that, you have to be smart, you have to do all that to play in the league, but I think I play the game the right way. I approach practice the right way. I just try to roll those sleeves back and play hard.”
(On if he enjoys playing in the box and covering the run)
“I like to do it all. In ‘Spags’ system, you have cover, you have to be in box, you have to do it all. Both positions are interchangeable, so it’s exciting.”
(Mike Karney: On if he was surprised when the Saints released him or was he expecting it)
“Yes and no. It kind of hurt a little bit and we investigated it and eventually it came true, but it is what it is. I had a great five years in New Orleans and they wanted to go in a different direction and that allowed me to be where I’m at today. So, it’s all about the next opportunity, the next chance. I’m happy that it’s here in St. Louis.”
(On how often he replays the game when he scored three touchdowns)
“Not so much in the last couple years. That was a freak deal, that’s not what fullbacks are supposed to do, but that night I got the ball a little bit more than normal. But I know what my position is all about, I know what it stands for. I know what my approach is, my mindset is and I know I’m here to block and get it done for our offense in any way, shape or form. That’s run blocking, that’s picking up blitzes that’s whatever that may be. That’s what I’m here to do.”
(James Butler: On the experience of leading the Giants with a team-high 10 tackles in Super Bowl XLII)
“I tell you what, that’s one of the best experiences of my life to play at the highest level of professional football and just win. Just to win as a team, it really wasn’t about the personal things, but just to win as a team and the way we won was the biggest thing and that’s what I remember.”
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Redwes25
Footballguy
As a Giants homer I would like to chime in as well. In the giant's system the safeties are pretty interchangable and will be used a lot in run support and blitz packages. I think you guys will like Butler and he will help in the run support game. He is also still young (only a starter for 2 years) and think he will still improve some and was really good this year for the giants as I don't think we missed Gibril Wilson at all. I noticed a lot of comments in this thread about linebackers and the Rams need. My two cents having watched the Giants and Eagles and the Jim Johnson/Spags defensive system LBs are viewed as secondary role. The key to the system is a good secondary (especially corners) and DL. You need your secondary to be able to play man coverage and the LBs need to be able to blitz. Given the system I would be surprised if the Rams used a high pick on a LB and instead grabbed a couple in the later round 3rd or 4th. Look at what the Giants have done at LB the last few years as they have not addressed anything until this year with Spags gone. Also, the Eagles have had no name LBs for a decade but a great secondary. The Butler signing seems to fit this mold for the Rams.
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Bob Magaw
Footballguy
thanx for the homer insight, redwes...that was very helpful & encouraging about butler... i think he will make the rams better a few ways (that shouldn't be too hard)... in run support, & just getting the secondary lined up right with his knowledge of the system/scheme, & it is nice to know he could get even better... he also seems like a high character guy, which fits a lot of recent moves... franchising atogwe & working on a long term, more cap-friendly extension, getting the #1 overall OL in free agency in jason brown, retaining bartell, adding butler & karney...very good points about relative importance of LB, compared to DL & secondary... the arrow does seem to be pointed up on the secondary... being able to pair high 1st rounders long & carriker with former pro bowler little (if he can stay out of the trainer's tub... he is approaching mid-30s & showing signs of breaking down, but just a few years removed from being one of the best, & still has an electrifying first step when right) could bode well for the DL...they already have a pro bowl caliber LB in witherspoon, though WLB could be his best position... i do think they are leaning towards LT jason smith or monroe... i completely agree that the eagles have seemed to deemphasize LB during the jimmy johnson tenure (relative to DBs, & reid also likes to use high picks on both lines... it seems like the skill positions of RB & WR have been deemphasized by reid, at times, as they spread it around)... it does make you wonder if they had a great LB, instead of taking freddie mitchell in the 1st or todd pinkston in the 2nd, if they would have been better off & gone to more super bowls... hard to say, even in hindsight?it is also a point of contention how much curry could help if they don't strengthen the DL... even the great ray lewis did his best work behind great DTs like adams/siragusa & now he has pro bowl caliber ngata... lewis might be a pinata for the rams... as to blitzing, we know witherspoon can do it, & seems to be a natural at timing it up, & is probably one of the best pass rushers on the team at any position... i think tinoisamoa could be good, at least in a situational role (if he remains with the team?)... he was an outstanding two way star as a legendary san diego county prep, & is a trendous athlete, albeit his medical record makes evil knieval look like a piker...
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Jeff Tefertiller
Footballguy
With Holt and Bennett gone, can the Rams rely on Burton to stay healthy? I really liked him at UK and think he has good talent and the ability to make plays. I just am hesitant due to the injuries.
Lott's Fingertip
Footballguy
The Rams have got to sign a decent vet WR. God, I hope somebody capable is dropped before training camp.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
best of luck to holt wherever he lands... he was a great ram & probable future HoFer... & his talent may have been exceeded by his character & intangibles... he will lend class to whatever team he goes to...
IF boldin were moved, ARI might come into play
MIN fits in a few ways (dome, positioned to win now)
CAR has already been speculated about (& may not be a good fit for a few reasons)
NO is a dome team with super bowl aspirations
TEN obvious choice since they tried to trade for him (reportedly fell through when he refused to redo his contract)
IF boldin were moved, ARI might come into play
MIN fits in a few ways (dome, positioned to win now)
CAR has already been speculated about (& may not be a good fit for a few reasons)
NO is a dome team with super bowl aspirations
TEN obvious choice since they tried to trade for him (reportedly fell through when he refused to redo his contract)
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lyon812
Footballguy
Awhile back we talked about linebacker prospects. Here's a solid article that at least helps generate some names/ideas if we bypass Curry in 1.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/story/11492601
There will be plenty of that in the 2009 draft, with at least six outside linebackers expected to be selected by the middle of the second round, according to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com. That number could grow if a few defensive ends are selected by teams running 3-4 schemes seeking outside rush linebackers.
The top-rated player overall by NFLDraftScout.com is Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry, a 6-foot-2, 254-pounder who runs like a deer, hits like a truck and plays with sixth sense-type instincts.
Next there is talented 6-3, 243-pound outside linebacker Brian Cushing of Southern California, which has three highly-rated linebackers in the draft, including Clay Matthews, Jr., ranked No. 14 overall, and inside power man Rey Maualuga, the top-ranked inside linebacker.
One of the biggest names among the linebackers -- in number of letters and fame -- is James Laurinaitis, the latest in a long line of Ohio State linebacking stars. As with many of his Buckeye predecessors, Laurinaitis was extremely productive in college but was less than scintillating in workouts at the scouting combine last month.
Here is a closer look at this year's top linebacker prospects (asterisk denotes underclassmen):
Outside linebackers
1. Aaron Curry, Wake Forest, 6-2, 254
This is a big, tough athletic kid who knows himself well. "I can come in instantly and make an impact on anybody's defense," Curry said during a combine interview. "And (with) my versatility as a linebacker to be able to play in the 3-4, inside or outside, or 4-3, inside or outside, you just can't go wrong."
Curry uses strength, long arms and powerful hands to manhandle blockers and ball carriers while making more than his share of plays behind the line of scrimmage.
Although he appears tight changing directions, he can drop into pass coverage and reacts well to the ball in the air, evidenced in 2007 when he returned three interceptions for touchdowns. His athleticism was on display at the combine, where his best 40-yard time was 4.52 seconds and he had a 37-inch vertical jump.
2. Brian Cushing, Southern California, 6-3, 243
By the time Cushing flew through the 40-yard dash with a fastest clocking of 4.68 and leaped 35 inches in the vertical jump at the combine, scouts weren't surprised. His ability was obvious during his college career and in Senior Bowl workouts in Mobile, Ala., where he appeared to be the best of USC's trio of outstanding linebackers, including Rey Maualuga and Clay Matthews, Jr. Cushing played almost every linebacker spot in 2006 to help cover for injuries. That helped improve his versatility, showing he can be left in coverage on tight ends and some backs, to blitz or to read, react and flow to the point of attack. He has a history of knee and ankle problems, but scouts are no longer concerned about his shoulder after he hoisted 225 pounds 30 times at the combine.
3. Clay Matthews, Southern Cal, 6-3, 240
Determination and commitment -- with a possible tip of the hat to genetics -- finally paid off in 2008 for Matthews, who didn't become a full-time starter until three games into last season. He enters this draft with scouts buzzing about his potential after an impressive week of practice at the Senior Bowl. Matthews was originally a walk-on at USC before being awarded a scholarship in 2006 based largely or great special teams play, despite the fact that his name was already legendary on campus. His father, Clay, was a Trojan and a linebacker with the Cleveland Browns; his uncle, Bruce, came from USC and then starred with the NFL Oilers/Titans. His grandfather, Clay Sr., was with the 49ers in the 1950s
4. Larry English, Northern Illinois, 6-2, 255
His pass-rushing skills as a defensive end earned English the Mid-American Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors the past two years and now he is having mixed results as he tries to fit in as an outside linebacker, where scouts project him. They liked his quickness and aggressiveness at Senior Bowl practices and he looked explosive at the combine with a vertical jump of 36 inches. But his best 40-yard time was only 4.82 seconds and he was less than fluid in some of the linebacker drills. English relied mainly on straight-line speed to total 16 tackles for a loss and a dozen sacks in 2007, and then added 17 tackles for a loss and 11 sacks last year.
5. Connor Barwin, Cincinnati, 6-4, 256
Although he was a decent college player catching passes as a tight end, he became an excellent pro prospect catching quarterbacks as a defensive end, where he was moved last year. He shocked scouts at his new position, where his 2008 statistics included 14.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and six pass breakups. He already shows the basic skills and instincts necessary to be a force as a linebacker. Because he lacks the size desired for NFL defensive ends, he is expected to move to outside linebacker in somebody's 3-4 alignment, especially after showing amazing innate athleticism at the combine, where his best 40 time was 4.59 and he soared 40.5 inches in the vertical jump.
6. Clint Sintim, Virginia, 6-3, 256
He seems to be a player who can be productive in the NFL, but he may have to move to inside linebacker to minimize his liabilities. Sintim struggled in Senior Bowl practices as an outside linebacker, where his explosion and straight-line speed are overshadowed by his inability to break down and play in space. In college, he started on the outside in 37 consecutive games and was most effective attacking the backfield. He collected nine sacks in 2007 and 11 in 2008 and may be productive as a strict rush linebacker on the outside.
7. Marcus Freeman, Ohio State, 6-1, 239
After laboring in the shadow of better-known teammates such as James Laurinaitis in college, Freeman demanded some attention at the combine with one of the best workouts of any linebacker. He sent scouts scurrying back to watch more game films after flying through 40 yards in 4.67 seconds, leaping 37 inches in the vertical jump and benching 225 pounds 30 times. On film, scouts will see that when Freeman wasn't struggling with leg injuries he actually out-produced Laurinaitis over the past two seasons in terms of solo tackles, 105-102. Freeman was outstanding in the Fiesta Bowl and during Senior Bowl practices.
8. Tyrone McKenzie, South Florida, 6-2, 243
This total package is better than the sum of the parts. He isn't as big, as strong or as fast as scouts would like, but manages to be productive whenever he is on the field. He transferred twice, moving from Michigan State, then Iowa State before landing at South Florida. He totaled 129 tackles for the Cyclones in 2006, then added 114 in 2007 and 116 last year for the Bulls. He had an impressive Senior Bowl game, leading the North with six solo tackles and an assist. McKenzie pulled his right hamstring during the second 40-yard run at the combine and settled for a disappointing best time of 4.73. That underscores why he was not used in nickel situations in college and may not be an every down player in the NFL.
9. Cody Brown, Connecticut, 6-2, 242
An athletic and productive defensive end in college, Brown will move to inside linebacker for some NFL team. He collected 32 combined tackles for a loss in each of the past two seasons. Last year he had 10 sacks and four forced fumbles. Scouts liked the way he handled himself as a defensive end during Senior Bowl practices, but he is just not big enough for end in the pros. Brown has unusually long arms (34.5 inches) and big hands (10 1/8 inch) and needs to learn how to use them for leverage to have his way against bigger blockers at the next level.
10. Jonathan Casillas, Wisconsin, 6-1, 228
Although Casillas' startling speed is obvious on film, and he is reported to have run 40 yards in 4.48 seconds, scouts are still waiting to verify exactly how fast he is. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in December for cartilage damage and was unable to take part in the Champs Sports Bowl, the Senior Bowl, the running events at the combine and his own pro day. He did bench 225 pounds 24 times at the combine, however. Casillas was a three-time honorable mention All-Big Ten pick on the weak side, and first gained attention as a true freshman with outstanding special teams play in 2005.
Inside linebackers
1. Rey Maualuga, Southern Cal, 6-2, 249
He plays with the kind of aggression one should expect from a classic inside linebacker, and then some. Maualuga is a menacing bully who manages to get into more than his share of big plays, even on passes. His most obvious negative on the field seems to be over-pursuing, and he will need to play with more control at the next level. That includes off the field, where he has been in trouble more than once. Maualuga impressed scouts with his ability to rush the passer during drills at the Senior Bowl. Although he had no sacks as a senior, he did collect six as a junior. A three-time all-conference selection and 2009 All-American, he can be a difference maker.
2. James Laurinaitis, Ohio State, 6-2, 244
There are a lot of people pulling for the popular, instinctive Laurinaitis to break a streak of disappointment at the NFL level by standout Ohio State linebackers. Laurinaitis is a three-time All-American who won the Bronko Nagurski Award as the top defensive player in the nation in 2006 and added another Nagurski Award plus the #### Butkus Award as top linebacker in 2007 and the Lott Trophy as best all-around defensive player in 2008. But he ran only 4.78 in 40 yards at the combine, reminding everybody that Chris Spielman was the last star inside linebacker from Ohio State to earn honors in the NFL. Since then, Craig Powell, Andy Katzenmoyer, A.J. Hawk and Bobby Carpenter have been first-round disappointments. His father was a popular professional wrestler in the 1980s and 1990s, known as "Animal" of the Legion of Doom, The Road Warriors.
3. Darry Beckwith, LSU, 6-0, 242
Here is a classic, old-fashioned inside linebacker who relies on instinct and toughness more than great athleticism to get the job done. His numbers were down while playing in 10 games last year as he finished with 51 tackles and only one for a loss. He understands his place and responsibilities in the defensive scheme and is willing and able to take on blockers, but sometimes has a little trouble shedding them quickly. He ran the 40 in 4.75 seconds at the combine, but was able to manage a 26.5-inch vertical jump. Teams are checking his medical reports closely because he missed games in each of the past three years with knee injuries.
4. Dannell Ellerbe, Georgia, 6-1, 236
Injuries have hampered Ellerbe recently as he struggled through 2008 with a sprained knee and wasn't able to do a full workout at the combine because of a torn pectoral muscle. Ellerbe is a bit undersized for the traditional inside linebacker position. He relies on his athleticism and aggression to beat blockers to the ball carrier, but struggles disengaging from blocks when confronted. In 2007 he collected 93 tackles, 12 for a loss while starting at each of the three linebacker positions. But his 2008 season was a disappointment because of a knee sprain and he finished with only 33 tackles.
5. * Gerald McRath, Southern Mississippi, 6-3, 231
He is undersized, looks more like a strong safety than a middle linebacker and seems to run around people rather than take them on. But he certainly has the speed to make that tactic work, as evidence by a blistering time of 4.49 seconds in 40 yards at the combine. McRath earned his second consecutive first-team All-Conference USA plaque in 2008, finishing with 137 tackles (78 solo) giving him a career total of 386 tackles, 32 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. So he decided it was time to move to the NFL.
6. Scott McKillop, Pittsburgh, 6-1, 244
McKillop was 2008 Big East Defensive Player of the Year, and twice a unanimous first-team All-Big East linebacker who racked up 288 tackles, 27.5 for loss and seven sacks the past two seasons. He showed potential as a true freshman, stepping in for injured star H.B. Blades to make 13 tackles against West Virginia. He is a productive, instinctive player who sorts through the traffic well to get to the ball carrier and has a sense of how and when to slide through oncoming blockers. Although his best 40-yard time at the combine was only 4.79, he showed he is explosive by bursting through 10 yards in only 1.59 seconds.
7. Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina, 6-2, 252
This prospect seems to get more interesting every day. He made an immediate and dramatic impact in 2006 after transferring from Georgia Military College. He built his reputation on being an enforcer, who thumped his way to 107 tackles in 2006. He was sidelined by a knee injury after four games in 2007, and seemed to remake himself last year, dropping almost 20 pounds and improving his speed. At the combine Brinkley sped through 40 yards in 4.67 seconds (1.55 second in 10 yards), leaped 35.5 inches in the vertical jump and showed that he is still plenty strong by benching 225 pounds 26 times. Brinkley has the strength to be a force inside and the speed to rush off the edge. His twin brother, Casper, signed as a free-agent rookie with Carolina last year.
8. Jason Phillips, TCU, 6-1, 239
Although he is not the kind of linebacker who blows people up with his tackles, Phillips is instinctive, persistent and consistent. He totaled 315 career tackles, 7.5 sacks and three interceptions and was the only player in Mountain West Conference history to earn first- or second-team all-conference honors in four consecutive seasons. Scouts were impressed when he was clocked in 4.60 seconds for 40 yards at the combine. He described himself well during interviews, saying, "They're going to get a tough, smart, dedicated, coachable, hard-working player." Phillips played quarterback as well as linebacker in high school.
9. Frantz Joseph, Florida Atlantic, 6-1, 242
An intense, physical three-year starter with 154 tackles (84 solo) in 2008 when he earned first-team All-Sun Belt honors for the second consecutive year. He had 131 tackles in 2007. His 13 tackles in the 2008 Motor City Bowl against Central Michigan demanded attention from pro scouts. Joseph redshirted at Boston College in 2004, sat out 2005 and transferred home to help his mother with finances. At his pro day Feb. 26, Joseph had a best time of only 4.83 but said that didn't matter. "Just put a running back in front of me and let me go," he said.
10. Josh Mauga, Nevada, 6-2-243
He was never named to an all-conference team, but Mauga was versatile enough to make plays regardless of position or scheme. He played outside linebacker in the 3-4 early in his career and then at both the middle and strong-side positions in the 4-3 as a senior. He was the WAC leader in tackles (11.7 per-game average) through the first seven games of the 2007 season, but an MCL injury kept him out until he posted 11 tackles in Nevada's bowl loss to New Mexico. Last season, Mauga played through a torn pectoral muscle, managing 54 tackles, 7.5 for loss and 3.5 sacks, but because of the injury he did not work out at the combine.
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/story/11492601
There will be plenty of that in the 2009 draft, with at least six outside linebackers expected to be selected by the middle of the second round, according to ratings by NFLDraftScout.com. That number could grow if a few defensive ends are selected by teams running 3-4 schemes seeking outside rush linebackers.
The top-rated player overall by NFLDraftScout.com is Wake Forest linebacker Aaron Curry, a 6-foot-2, 254-pounder who runs like a deer, hits like a truck and plays with sixth sense-type instincts.
Next there is talented 6-3, 243-pound outside linebacker Brian Cushing of Southern California, which has three highly-rated linebackers in the draft, including Clay Matthews, Jr., ranked No. 14 overall, and inside power man Rey Maualuga, the top-ranked inside linebacker.
One of the biggest names among the linebackers -- in number of letters and fame -- is James Laurinaitis, the latest in a long line of Ohio State linebacking stars. As with many of his Buckeye predecessors, Laurinaitis was extremely productive in college but was less than scintillating in workouts at the scouting combine last month.
Here is a closer look at this year's top linebacker prospects (asterisk denotes underclassmen):
Outside linebackers
1. Aaron Curry, Wake Forest, 6-2, 254
This is a big, tough athletic kid who knows himself well. "I can come in instantly and make an impact on anybody's defense," Curry said during a combine interview. "And (with) my versatility as a linebacker to be able to play in the 3-4, inside or outside, or 4-3, inside or outside, you just can't go wrong."
Curry uses strength, long arms and powerful hands to manhandle blockers and ball carriers while making more than his share of plays behind the line of scrimmage.
Although he appears tight changing directions, he can drop into pass coverage and reacts well to the ball in the air, evidenced in 2007 when he returned three interceptions for touchdowns. His athleticism was on display at the combine, where his best 40-yard time was 4.52 seconds and he had a 37-inch vertical jump.
2. Brian Cushing, Southern California, 6-3, 243
By the time Cushing flew through the 40-yard dash with a fastest clocking of 4.68 and leaped 35 inches in the vertical jump at the combine, scouts weren't surprised. His ability was obvious during his college career and in Senior Bowl workouts in Mobile, Ala., where he appeared to be the best of USC's trio of outstanding linebackers, including Rey Maualuga and Clay Matthews, Jr. Cushing played almost every linebacker spot in 2006 to help cover for injuries. That helped improve his versatility, showing he can be left in coverage on tight ends and some backs, to blitz or to read, react and flow to the point of attack. He has a history of knee and ankle problems, but scouts are no longer concerned about his shoulder after he hoisted 225 pounds 30 times at the combine.
3. Clay Matthews, Southern Cal, 6-3, 240
Determination and commitment -- with a possible tip of the hat to genetics -- finally paid off in 2008 for Matthews, who didn't become a full-time starter until three games into last season. He enters this draft with scouts buzzing about his potential after an impressive week of practice at the Senior Bowl. Matthews was originally a walk-on at USC before being awarded a scholarship in 2006 based largely or great special teams play, despite the fact that his name was already legendary on campus. His father, Clay, was a Trojan and a linebacker with the Cleveland Browns; his uncle, Bruce, came from USC and then starred with the NFL Oilers/Titans. His grandfather, Clay Sr., was with the 49ers in the 1950s
4. Larry English, Northern Illinois, 6-2, 255
His pass-rushing skills as a defensive end earned English the Mid-American Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors the past two years and now he is having mixed results as he tries to fit in as an outside linebacker, where scouts project him. They liked his quickness and aggressiveness at Senior Bowl practices and he looked explosive at the combine with a vertical jump of 36 inches. But his best 40-yard time was only 4.82 seconds and he was less than fluid in some of the linebacker drills. English relied mainly on straight-line speed to total 16 tackles for a loss and a dozen sacks in 2007, and then added 17 tackles for a loss and 11 sacks last year.
5. Connor Barwin, Cincinnati, 6-4, 256
Although he was a decent college player catching passes as a tight end, he became an excellent pro prospect catching quarterbacks as a defensive end, where he was moved last year. He shocked scouts at his new position, where his 2008 statistics included 14.5 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and six pass breakups. He already shows the basic skills and instincts necessary to be a force as a linebacker. Because he lacks the size desired for NFL defensive ends, he is expected to move to outside linebacker in somebody's 3-4 alignment, especially after showing amazing innate athleticism at the combine, where his best 40 time was 4.59 and he soared 40.5 inches in the vertical jump.
6. Clint Sintim, Virginia, 6-3, 256
He seems to be a player who can be productive in the NFL, but he may have to move to inside linebacker to minimize his liabilities. Sintim struggled in Senior Bowl practices as an outside linebacker, where his explosion and straight-line speed are overshadowed by his inability to break down and play in space. In college, he started on the outside in 37 consecutive games and was most effective attacking the backfield. He collected nine sacks in 2007 and 11 in 2008 and may be productive as a strict rush linebacker on the outside.
7. Marcus Freeman, Ohio State, 6-1, 239
After laboring in the shadow of better-known teammates such as James Laurinaitis in college, Freeman demanded some attention at the combine with one of the best workouts of any linebacker. He sent scouts scurrying back to watch more game films after flying through 40 yards in 4.67 seconds, leaping 37 inches in the vertical jump and benching 225 pounds 30 times. On film, scouts will see that when Freeman wasn't struggling with leg injuries he actually out-produced Laurinaitis over the past two seasons in terms of solo tackles, 105-102. Freeman was outstanding in the Fiesta Bowl and during Senior Bowl practices.
8. Tyrone McKenzie, South Florida, 6-2, 243
This total package is better than the sum of the parts. He isn't as big, as strong or as fast as scouts would like, but manages to be productive whenever he is on the field. He transferred twice, moving from Michigan State, then Iowa State before landing at South Florida. He totaled 129 tackles for the Cyclones in 2006, then added 114 in 2007 and 116 last year for the Bulls. He had an impressive Senior Bowl game, leading the North with six solo tackles and an assist. McKenzie pulled his right hamstring during the second 40-yard run at the combine and settled for a disappointing best time of 4.73. That underscores why he was not used in nickel situations in college and may not be an every down player in the NFL.
9. Cody Brown, Connecticut, 6-2, 242
An athletic and productive defensive end in college, Brown will move to inside linebacker for some NFL team. He collected 32 combined tackles for a loss in each of the past two seasons. Last year he had 10 sacks and four forced fumbles. Scouts liked the way he handled himself as a defensive end during Senior Bowl practices, but he is just not big enough for end in the pros. Brown has unusually long arms (34.5 inches) and big hands (10 1/8 inch) and needs to learn how to use them for leverage to have his way against bigger blockers at the next level.
10. Jonathan Casillas, Wisconsin, 6-1, 228
Although Casillas' startling speed is obvious on film, and he is reported to have run 40 yards in 4.48 seconds, scouts are still waiting to verify exactly how fast he is. He underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in December for cartilage damage and was unable to take part in the Champs Sports Bowl, the Senior Bowl, the running events at the combine and his own pro day. He did bench 225 pounds 24 times at the combine, however. Casillas was a three-time honorable mention All-Big Ten pick on the weak side, and first gained attention as a true freshman with outstanding special teams play in 2005.
Inside linebackers
1. Rey Maualuga, Southern Cal, 6-2, 249
He plays with the kind of aggression one should expect from a classic inside linebacker, and then some. Maualuga is a menacing bully who manages to get into more than his share of big plays, even on passes. His most obvious negative on the field seems to be over-pursuing, and he will need to play with more control at the next level. That includes off the field, where he has been in trouble more than once. Maualuga impressed scouts with his ability to rush the passer during drills at the Senior Bowl. Although he had no sacks as a senior, he did collect six as a junior. A three-time all-conference selection and 2009 All-American, he can be a difference maker.
2. James Laurinaitis, Ohio State, 6-2, 244
There are a lot of people pulling for the popular, instinctive Laurinaitis to break a streak of disappointment at the NFL level by standout Ohio State linebackers. Laurinaitis is a three-time All-American who won the Bronko Nagurski Award as the top defensive player in the nation in 2006 and added another Nagurski Award plus the #### Butkus Award as top linebacker in 2007 and the Lott Trophy as best all-around defensive player in 2008. But he ran only 4.78 in 40 yards at the combine, reminding everybody that Chris Spielman was the last star inside linebacker from Ohio State to earn honors in the NFL. Since then, Craig Powell, Andy Katzenmoyer, A.J. Hawk and Bobby Carpenter have been first-round disappointments. His father was a popular professional wrestler in the 1980s and 1990s, known as "Animal" of the Legion of Doom, The Road Warriors.
3. Darry Beckwith, LSU, 6-0, 242
Here is a classic, old-fashioned inside linebacker who relies on instinct and toughness more than great athleticism to get the job done. His numbers were down while playing in 10 games last year as he finished with 51 tackles and only one for a loss. He understands his place and responsibilities in the defensive scheme and is willing and able to take on blockers, but sometimes has a little trouble shedding them quickly. He ran the 40 in 4.75 seconds at the combine, but was able to manage a 26.5-inch vertical jump. Teams are checking his medical reports closely because he missed games in each of the past three years with knee injuries.
4. Dannell Ellerbe, Georgia, 6-1, 236
Injuries have hampered Ellerbe recently as he struggled through 2008 with a sprained knee and wasn't able to do a full workout at the combine because of a torn pectoral muscle. Ellerbe is a bit undersized for the traditional inside linebacker position. He relies on his athleticism and aggression to beat blockers to the ball carrier, but struggles disengaging from blocks when confronted. In 2007 he collected 93 tackles, 12 for a loss while starting at each of the three linebacker positions. But his 2008 season was a disappointment because of a knee sprain and he finished with only 33 tackles.
5. * Gerald McRath, Southern Mississippi, 6-3, 231
He is undersized, looks more like a strong safety than a middle linebacker and seems to run around people rather than take them on. But he certainly has the speed to make that tactic work, as evidence by a blistering time of 4.49 seconds in 40 yards at the combine. McRath earned his second consecutive first-team All-Conference USA plaque in 2008, finishing with 137 tackles (78 solo) giving him a career total of 386 tackles, 32 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. So he decided it was time to move to the NFL.
6. Scott McKillop, Pittsburgh, 6-1, 244
McKillop was 2008 Big East Defensive Player of the Year, and twice a unanimous first-team All-Big East linebacker who racked up 288 tackles, 27.5 for loss and seven sacks the past two seasons. He showed potential as a true freshman, stepping in for injured star H.B. Blades to make 13 tackles against West Virginia. He is a productive, instinctive player who sorts through the traffic well to get to the ball carrier and has a sense of how and when to slide through oncoming blockers. Although his best 40-yard time at the combine was only 4.79, he showed he is explosive by bursting through 10 yards in only 1.59 seconds.
7. Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina, 6-2, 252
This prospect seems to get more interesting every day. He made an immediate and dramatic impact in 2006 after transferring from Georgia Military College. He built his reputation on being an enforcer, who thumped his way to 107 tackles in 2006. He was sidelined by a knee injury after four games in 2007, and seemed to remake himself last year, dropping almost 20 pounds and improving his speed. At the combine Brinkley sped through 40 yards in 4.67 seconds (1.55 second in 10 yards), leaped 35.5 inches in the vertical jump and showed that he is still plenty strong by benching 225 pounds 26 times. Brinkley has the strength to be a force inside and the speed to rush off the edge. His twin brother, Casper, signed as a free-agent rookie with Carolina last year.
8. Jason Phillips, TCU, 6-1, 239
Although he is not the kind of linebacker who blows people up with his tackles, Phillips is instinctive, persistent and consistent. He totaled 315 career tackles, 7.5 sacks and three interceptions and was the only player in Mountain West Conference history to earn first- or second-team all-conference honors in four consecutive seasons. Scouts were impressed when he was clocked in 4.60 seconds for 40 yards at the combine. He described himself well during interviews, saying, "They're going to get a tough, smart, dedicated, coachable, hard-working player." Phillips played quarterback as well as linebacker in high school.
9. Frantz Joseph, Florida Atlantic, 6-1, 242
An intense, physical three-year starter with 154 tackles (84 solo) in 2008 when he earned first-team All-Sun Belt honors for the second consecutive year. He had 131 tackles in 2007. His 13 tackles in the 2008 Motor City Bowl against Central Michigan demanded attention from pro scouts. Joseph redshirted at Boston College in 2004, sat out 2005 and transferred home to help his mother with finances. At his pro day Feb. 26, Joseph had a best time of only 4.83 but said that didn't matter. "Just put a running back in front of me and let me go," he said.
10. Josh Mauga, Nevada, 6-2-243
He was never named to an all-conference team, but Mauga was versatile enough to make plays regardless of position or scheme. He played outside linebacker in the 3-4 early in his career and then at both the middle and strong-side positions in the 4-3 as a senior. He was the WAC leader in tackles (11.7 per-game average) through the first seven games of the 2007 season, but an MCL injury kept him out until he posted 11 tackles in Nevada's bowl loss to New Mexico. Last season, Mauga played through a torn pectoral muscle, managing 54 tackles, 7.5 for loss and 3.5 sacks, but because of the injury he did not work out at the combine.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
nice find, lyon... i saw this in usa today's sports weekly but hadn't got to it yet... i like their positional writeups this time of the year, to fill the void while waiting for the magazines, scouting guides & bloom's top 100... 
marcus freeman sounds interesting, for an OLB... he was definitely overshadowed by lauranaitis, but sounds like a tempting combo of physical tools, athleticism & on field production while healthy... ohio state has been an NFL LB pipeline lately (moreso than penn state)...
a perfect draft for me would be jason smith /monroe at 1.2 & lauranaitis at 2.03... i don't think malauga will drop that far, it will be interesting to see how he does at his pro day... the combine wasn't a resounding success for him... no way cushing falls, matthews possible, though not sure how probable, as SLB is a definite need... since this is almost certainly a multi-season rebuild (just like obama talked about needing a few terms to turn things around, devaney talked about needing to string together strong back to back drafts/free agent cycles), so hopefully they don't feel compelled to reach for a positional need with the 2nd pick (if in fact they opt for a LT with the 1st, as many expect)... i think/hope devaney & spagnuolo (based on their masterful working of free agency so far) will do the right thing & take the BPA at that point... with so many holes on the roster & their high day one picks, there should be no shortage of opportunities to find convergences of BPA/team need... WRs like hakeem nicks, kenny britt & brian robiskie (first two probably won't drop, i think latter will) would fill looming needs for big WCO WRs with good hands that can run intermediate & over the middle routes & RAC... the NYG liked to stockpile DEs during spags tenure (kind of a headscratcher at the time when they got justin tuck & matthias kiwanuka & already had strahan & umenyiora, but in retrospect those picks were strokes of genius... not only does strahan quickly retire & umenyiora got injured, but the brilliant four DE pass rush was arguably the single biggest cause that enabled the giants super bowl run & victory, as well as spagnuolo getting the rams HC gig), & little is around 33... not sure if we see a DL in day one, but we need to add some bodies over the next few years, whether through free agency, draft or trade...
below is an article about the rams secondary... somewhat redundant to what has been posted above already, but a nice summing up & recap of how we got here... interestingly (at least to me), is that for all the talk of a "new" secondary, it is 3/4 the same... of course, butler should prove a very welcome addition & make the secondary in particular & the defense as a whole & in general better against the pass & run... & not least of which because of his familiarity with spags transplanted scheme... cause for hope is that the retained atogwe (franchised) & bartell (re-signed) were bright spots in an otherwise abysmal campaign where the rest of the team cratered... atogwe has been a big play artist for a few years, & bartell clearly is an ascendant player... their best football could be in front of all three... tye hill is the question mark, wild card, enigma... he really needs to stay healthy or he won't be long for the team... after spending a relatively high 1st on him, rams fans would like to see the organization get their money's worth out of the pick...
an important point is that the rams DL got very little pressure on opposing QBs in 2008... a big part of the problem was that the offense & defense were so bad & the games shockingly but at some point predictably got so quickly out of hand, that it put the pass rush at a disadvantage... plus the prized second overall pick long was a rookie, & little hurt his toe (he has also missed too much time, & needs to stay healthy or he will be quickly jettisoned)... carriker could mount an inside presence, but was also banged up for much of the year... james hall & adeyanju are marginal players, DT clifton ryan has some promise... they do need to add talent, youth & depth across the board on the DL...
it is a cliche that, no matter how talented a secondary, they will be humbled & rendered ordinary when saddled with & crippled by a non-existent pass rush... DL improvements, whether through superior scouting, drafting & pro personnel talent acquisition, coaching & development & game planning/scheming, will play a symbiotic role in the secondary's fortunes...
they reportedly want to re-sign jason craft, & also youngsters wade & king can all be in the mix for nickle/dime CB... don't have a link, but i believe sporting news stated that the rams might be interested in ken lucas... he might still have enough left in the tank to dislodge & unseat hill for the other starting CB opposite bartell, & wouldn't be too expensive, probably...
they do have about $14 mil in cap space with the anticipated releases of pace & holt, some of which i'd like to see them use to lock up atogwe on a long term, more cap-friendly contract...
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/st...ewCommentAnchor
St. Louis Rams secondary takes shape
By Bill Coats
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
03/15/2009
In mid-February, the Rams' secondary was in a state of flux. Strong safety Corey Chavous had been released, cornerback Fakhir Brown had been removed from the team's plans, and free safety Oshiomogho "O.J." Atogwe and cornerback Ron Bartell were about to become free agents.
Less than a month and more than $50 million later, the new regime at Rams Park has solidified most of its defensive backfield:
Feb. 19 — Atogwe, 27, is assigned the team's franchise tag, assuring his presence in 2009 and earning him a one-year salary of $6.34 million. MORE RAMS
March 2 — After a visit to New Orleans and a contract offer from the Saints, Bartell, 27, re-signs with the Rams. His four-year deal could max out at $28 million
March 10 — Strong safety James Butler, 27, a free agent who spent the previous four seasons with the New York Giants, signs for four years and, if certain incentives are met, about $17 million.
"It's very exciting," Butler said. "O.J.'s been having a lot of interceptions the past two years, and Ron Bartell's arrow is definitely going up."
With a laugh, Butler added, "We've got a lot of young players, and they're fast — I might be the slowest one out of the bunch. I might have to start working on my 40s."
Atogwe, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound third-round draft pick in 2005, is a three-year starter who has developed into one of the NFL's top ball-hawking defenders. He led the NFC with eight interceptions two years ago and picked off five more passes in 2008. He also finished second on the team in tackles this past season, with 109.
Bartell, a 6-1, 209-pounder drafted in the second round in 2005, cobbled together a breakout season in '08. After shuttling between safety and cornerback his first three seasons, Bartell became a full-time starter. He was the team's best defender in coverage, compiling one of the league's best "burn" rates (percentage of passes completed against him), and his three interceptions were second to Atogwe.
Butler, a 6-3, 215-pound Georgia Tech product, wasn't drafted after his senior season in 2005, which shocked the two-time all-Atlantic Coast Conference honoree.
"It was very tough. I was like, 'Man, these guys aren't better than me,'" Butler said. "But I think every player has things he has to go through, and I went through that. You just have to roll with the punches."
The snub amped up his determination to prove the skeptics wrong, Butler stressed.
"Every player has a motivation. ... that was my motivation," he said.
Signed by the Giants as a free agent, Butler kept his initial goals simple.
"My first year with the Giants, it was just, 'make the team ... keep grinding,'" he said.
He filled a reserve role his first two years, then earned a starting job in 2007. Coincidentally or not, that was the same year Giants coach Tom Coughlin hired Steve Spagnuolo as his defensive coordinator.
"Coach Spags came over with a different mind-set, an aggressive mind-set, and we bought into it," Butler said. The effect was immediate.
The Giants' defense improved from 25th in the 32-team NFL in 2006 to seventh in '07 under the future Rams head coach. Spagnuolo's scheme vs. New England's record-setting offense was widely hailed as a primary factor in the Giants' stunning 17-14 Super Bowl triumph.
Butler had a team-high 10 tackles vs. the Pats, but he played down his contribution.
"It really wasn't about the personal things," he said. "Just to win as a team, and the way we won, that was the biggest thing."
Spagnuolo's defense moved up to No. 5 this past season, and his stock as a potential head coach soared. The Rams hired him Jan. 17. And when Spagnuolo called at the start of the free agency period, Butler listened.
"Coach Spags gave me my first opportunity to start in the league, and he helped my career grow. I wanted to stay with him," Butler said. "I was talking to other teams, but in the back of my mind, I was going to be here."
As for the fourth member of the secondary ...
"Wide open," Spagnuolo said. "There's going to be a lot of competition in (the three) minicamps, and we'll just let guys compete and see who surfaces."
Tye Hill, the Rams' first-round draft pick in 2006, probably is the top candidate among the incumbent corners. He started 10 games as a rookie but has played in just nine games over the past two seasons because of injuries.
"I don't think Tye has lost his swagger," said Butler, who co-owns a Golden Corral restaurant in Centerville, Ga., with Hill. "He's definitely motivated to be one of the best corners in the league this year, and he's been working hard this offseason. Tye Hill will be a great player this year."
Other cornerbacks under contract are Eric Bassey, Quincy Butler, Justin King and Jonathan Wade. Also, Jason Craft, a free-agent acquisition last year, could be brought back.
Butler "was a real key piece of the puzzle" in the secondary, Spagnuolo said. "He's going to be kind of the glue that brings these guys together."
marcus freeman sounds interesting, for an OLB... he was definitely overshadowed by lauranaitis, but sounds like a tempting combo of physical tools, athleticism & on field production while healthy... ohio state has been an NFL LB pipeline lately (moreso than penn state)...a perfect draft for me would be jason smith /monroe at 1.2 & lauranaitis at 2.03... i don't think malauga will drop that far, it will be interesting to see how he does at his pro day... the combine wasn't a resounding success for him... no way cushing falls, matthews possible, though not sure how probable, as SLB is a definite need... since this is almost certainly a multi-season rebuild (just like obama talked about needing a few terms to turn things around, devaney talked about needing to string together strong back to back drafts/free agent cycles), so hopefully they don't feel compelled to reach for a positional need with the 2nd pick (if in fact they opt for a LT with the 1st, as many expect)... i think/hope devaney & spagnuolo (based on their masterful working of free agency so far) will do the right thing & take the BPA at that point... with so many holes on the roster & their high day one picks, there should be no shortage of opportunities to find convergences of BPA/team need... WRs like hakeem nicks, kenny britt & brian robiskie (first two probably won't drop, i think latter will) would fill looming needs for big WCO WRs with good hands that can run intermediate & over the middle routes & RAC... the NYG liked to stockpile DEs during spags tenure (kind of a headscratcher at the time when they got justin tuck & matthias kiwanuka & already had strahan & umenyiora, but in retrospect those picks were strokes of genius... not only does strahan quickly retire & umenyiora got injured, but the brilliant four DE pass rush was arguably the single biggest cause that enabled the giants super bowl run & victory, as well as spagnuolo getting the rams HC gig), & little is around 33... not sure if we see a DL in day one, but we need to add some bodies over the next few years, whether through free agency, draft or trade...
below is an article about the rams secondary... somewhat redundant to what has been posted above already, but a nice summing up & recap of how we got here... interestingly (at least to me), is that for all the talk of a "new" secondary, it is 3/4 the same... of course, butler should prove a very welcome addition & make the secondary in particular & the defense as a whole & in general better against the pass & run... & not least of which because of his familiarity with spags transplanted scheme... cause for hope is that the retained atogwe (franchised) & bartell (re-signed) were bright spots in an otherwise abysmal campaign where the rest of the team cratered... atogwe has been a big play artist for a few years, & bartell clearly is an ascendant player... their best football could be in front of all three... tye hill is the question mark, wild card, enigma... he really needs to stay healthy or he won't be long for the team... after spending a relatively high 1st on him, rams fans would like to see the organization get their money's worth out of the pick...
an important point is that the rams DL got very little pressure on opposing QBs in 2008... a big part of the problem was that the offense & defense were so bad & the games shockingly but at some point predictably got so quickly out of hand, that it put the pass rush at a disadvantage... plus the prized second overall pick long was a rookie, & little hurt his toe (he has also missed too much time, & needs to stay healthy or he will be quickly jettisoned)... carriker could mount an inside presence, but was also banged up for much of the year... james hall & adeyanju are marginal players, DT clifton ryan has some promise... they do need to add talent, youth & depth across the board on the DL...
it is a cliche that, no matter how talented a secondary, they will be humbled & rendered ordinary when saddled with & crippled by a non-existent pass rush... DL improvements, whether through superior scouting, drafting & pro personnel talent acquisition, coaching & development & game planning/scheming, will play a symbiotic role in the secondary's fortunes...
they reportedly want to re-sign jason craft, & also youngsters wade & king can all be in the mix for nickle/dime CB... don't have a link, but i believe sporting news stated that the rams might be interested in ken lucas... he might still have enough left in the tank to dislodge & unseat hill for the other starting CB opposite bartell, & wouldn't be too expensive, probably...
they do have about $14 mil in cap space with the anticipated releases of pace & holt, some of which i'd like to see them use to lock up atogwe on a long term, more cap-friendly contract...
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/st...ewCommentAnchor
St. Louis Rams secondary takes shape
By Bill Coats
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
03/15/2009
In mid-February, the Rams' secondary was in a state of flux. Strong safety Corey Chavous had been released, cornerback Fakhir Brown had been removed from the team's plans, and free safety Oshiomogho "O.J." Atogwe and cornerback Ron Bartell were about to become free agents.
Less than a month and more than $50 million later, the new regime at Rams Park has solidified most of its defensive backfield:
Feb. 19 — Atogwe, 27, is assigned the team's franchise tag, assuring his presence in 2009 and earning him a one-year salary of $6.34 million. MORE RAMS
March 2 — After a visit to New Orleans and a contract offer from the Saints, Bartell, 27, re-signs with the Rams. His four-year deal could max out at $28 million
March 10 — Strong safety James Butler, 27, a free agent who spent the previous four seasons with the New York Giants, signs for four years and, if certain incentives are met, about $17 million.
"It's very exciting," Butler said. "O.J.'s been having a lot of interceptions the past two years, and Ron Bartell's arrow is definitely going up."
With a laugh, Butler added, "We've got a lot of young players, and they're fast — I might be the slowest one out of the bunch. I might have to start working on my 40s."
Atogwe, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound third-round draft pick in 2005, is a three-year starter who has developed into one of the NFL's top ball-hawking defenders. He led the NFC with eight interceptions two years ago and picked off five more passes in 2008. He also finished second on the team in tackles this past season, with 109.
Bartell, a 6-1, 209-pounder drafted in the second round in 2005, cobbled together a breakout season in '08. After shuttling between safety and cornerback his first three seasons, Bartell became a full-time starter. He was the team's best defender in coverage, compiling one of the league's best "burn" rates (percentage of passes completed against him), and his three interceptions were second to Atogwe.
Butler, a 6-3, 215-pound Georgia Tech product, wasn't drafted after his senior season in 2005, which shocked the two-time all-Atlantic Coast Conference honoree.
"It was very tough. I was like, 'Man, these guys aren't better than me,'" Butler said. "But I think every player has things he has to go through, and I went through that. You just have to roll with the punches."
The snub amped up his determination to prove the skeptics wrong, Butler stressed.
"Every player has a motivation. ... that was my motivation," he said.
Signed by the Giants as a free agent, Butler kept his initial goals simple.
"My first year with the Giants, it was just, 'make the team ... keep grinding,'" he said.
He filled a reserve role his first two years, then earned a starting job in 2007. Coincidentally or not, that was the same year Giants coach Tom Coughlin hired Steve Spagnuolo as his defensive coordinator.
"Coach Spags came over with a different mind-set, an aggressive mind-set, and we bought into it," Butler said. The effect was immediate.
The Giants' defense improved from 25th in the 32-team NFL in 2006 to seventh in '07 under the future Rams head coach. Spagnuolo's scheme vs. New England's record-setting offense was widely hailed as a primary factor in the Giants' stunning 17-14 Super Bowl triumph.
Butler had a team-high 10 tackles vs. the Pats, but he played down his contribution.
"It really wasn't about the personal things," he said. "Just to win as a team, and the way we won, that was the biggest thing."
Spagnuolo's defense moved up to No. 5 this past season, and his stock as a potential head coach soared. The Rams hired him Jan. 17. And when Spagnuolo called at the start of the free agency period, Butler listened.
"Coach Spags gave me my first opportunity to start in the league, and he helped my career grow. I wanted to stay with him," Butler said. "I was talking to other teams, but in the back of my mind, I was going to be here."
As for the fourth member of the secondary ...
"Wide open," Spagnuolo said. "There's going to be a lot of competition in (the three) minicamps, and we'll just let guys compete and see who surfaces."
Tye Hill, the Rams' first-round draft pick in 2006, probably is the top candidate among the incumbent corners. He started 10 games as a rookie but has played in just nine games over the past two seasons because of injuries.
"I don't think Tye has lost his swagger," said Butler, who co-owns a Golden Corral restaurant in Centerville, Ga., with Hill. "He's definitely motivated to be one of the best corners in the league this year, and he's been working hard this offseason. Tye Hill will be a great player this year."
Other cornerbacks under contract are Eric Bassey, Quincy Butler, Justin King and Jonathan Wade. Also, Jason Craft, a free-agent acquisition last year, could be brought back.
Butler "was a real key piece of the puzzle" in the secondary, Spagnuolo said. "He's going to be kind of the glue that brings these guys together."
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Bob Magaw
Footballguy
latest thoughts on free agency & the state of the franchise...
__________________________________________________
my grade in free agency so far is B+/A-
if we count retaining atogwe & bartell as "new" starters (if we had let them go, we would have somebody else there, so in that sense, we secured starters at those positions), the rams will probably have taken care of seven starting positions...
1) atogwe
2) jason brown
3) bartell
4) butler
5) karney
6) monroe/j. smith
7) lauranaitis/nicks/robiskie (conjecture)
that is more than a 1/3 of the (starting) roster, pretty impressive by any measure...
doesn't include possibility of striking gold & getting a starting caliber SLB, say, in round 3-4 (maybe a DT or OG becomes future starter?)...
STL needs to get backup QB, won't start unless bulger is injured...
sporting news reported the rams might be interested in ken lucas, who might be good enough (or tye hill bad enough, depending on how you parse it) to start...
so a SHOT, to come out of devaney/spagnuolo's initial free agency/draft cycle with more than seven starters (maybe 8-9?)... not too shabby, especially if players like atogwe, bartell & butler continue to progress...
with another free agency/draft cycle in 2010 (& being in better cap shape than we were a few years ago, with all the warner/faulk dead money), this team could be constituted much differently in terms of talent, youth & depth across the roster than the heinous 2007-2008, 5-27, martz/linehan/shaw/zygmunt-bungled iteration... cause for hope & optimism...
__________________________________________________
my grade in free agency so far is B+/A-
if we count retaining atogwe & bartell as "new" starters (if we had let them go, we would have somebody else there, so in that sense, we secured starters at those positions), the rams will probably have taken care of seven starting positions...
1) atogwe
2) jason brown
3) bartell
4) butler
5) karney
6) monroe/j. smith
7) lauranaitis/nicks/robiskie (conjecture)
that is more than a 1/3 of the (starting) roster, pretty impressive by any measure...
doesn't include possibility of striking gold & getting a starting caliber SLB, say, in round 3-4 (maybe a DT or OG becomes future starter?)...
STL needs to get backup QB, won't start unless bulger is injured...
sporting news reported the rams might be interested in ken lucas, who might be good enough (or tye hill bad enough, depending on how you parse it) to start...
so a SHOT, to come out of devaney/spagnuolo's initial free agency/draft cycle with more than seven starters (maybe 8-9?)... not too shabby, especially if players like atogwe, bartell & butler continue to progress...
with another free agency/draft cycle in 2010 (& being in better cap shape than we were a few years ago, with all the warner/faulk dead money), this team could be constituted much differently in terms of talent, youth & depth across the roster than the heinous 2007-2008, 5-27, martz/linehan/shaw/zygmunt-bungled iteration... cause for hope & optimism...
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lyon812
Footballguy
Here's an interesting study of our last 3 drafts.
http://www.mockingthedraft.com/2009/3/14/7...t-history-st-lo
http://www.mockingthedraft.com/2009/3/14/7...t-history-st-lo
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Bob Magaw
Footballguy
thanx, lyon... nice find... i can't exactly say it was a fun read
(lot of painful memories... bizarre that some of these guys are NOTHING BUT memories literally just a few seasons later), but it was educational... i thought it was very objective, didn't sugar coat things, but wasn't knee-jerkingly negative, & gave credit appropriately in the few instances it was due...
lyon812
Footballguy
Yeah. I keep meaning to peruse the rest of that site, just out of curiosity. It really puts things in perspective when you realize how 1-2 years of poor drafting can dismantle a team. That being said, it also gives hope--that in a couple of years we can return to prominence.
Also, to be honest, reading about our CB gave me pause. A few of us have talked about potentially taking a CB in the draft--but we've taken them 3 years in a row, and spent some decent picks on them. I wouldn't be surprised if we took a year to evaluate our CB (primarily King, Wade; I don't think much of Hill at this point, I'd love to be surprised) and hope one of them turns out to be league average.
Also, to be honest, reading about our CB gave me pause. A few of us have talked about potentially taking a CB in the draft--but we've taken them 3 years in a row, and spent some decent picks on them. I wouldn't be surprised if we took a year to evaluate our CB (primarily King, Wade; I don't think much of Hill at this point, I'd love to be surprised) and hope one of them turns out to be league average.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
what position should the rams address at 1.2, from a roundtable comprised of a who's who of local st. louis journalists... i think JT has it right with the LT... some sort of non-answers (whoever the scouting dept. grades out highest)...
http://www.stltoday.com/blogzone/round-two...ackle-lb-or-wr/
03.17.2009
Rams draft: Tackle, LB or WR?
By Roger Hensley
THE WATERCOOLER
QUESTION: Most have assumed the Rams would grab either an offensive tackle like Eugene Monroe or linebacker Aaron Curry with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft. However, with last week’s release of Orlando Pace and Torry Holt, the team is down to just three young WRs and face a draft class with a lot of talent at the top of the WR pool? Which direction do you believe this team needs to go in the draft: Offensive tackle, linebacker or wide receiver?
JIM THOMAS
Tackle. Tackle. Tackle. Alex Barron is the only player currently on the roster with substantial experience at the position. And his contract expires after this season. Assuming that he can make a seamless transition to left tackle and Jacob Bell can step right in at right tackle without a hitch goes a couple of steps beyond optimism.
BERNIE MIKLASZ
Good question. I am planning to write a column on this subject. More than anything the Rams can’t afford to be prisoners of need. They have a new GM and coaching staff in place. This is the beginning of an era. This is the start of something new, and hopefully it will be built to last. The Rams have to draft with the next 10 years in mind. They can’t worry about immediate needs. They have to go with the player who will best help them win over the long haul. So I don’t care who they draft in terms of position. They have to rely on their scouting and trust the grades they give each prospect. If the top grade conclusively belongs to Aaron Curry, then draft the LB. The same principle applies to OT, WR or even QB. Trust your scouting. Go with the best player and you won’t go wrong.
BRYAN BURWELL
If only we could see what the Rams draft board looked like, it would make this an easier task. But I think you build your team from the offensive line because the ability to run and protect the quarterback is the most important key to having a functional offense. Go with a tackle in the first round, and I’d be tempted to get a block-out-the-sun guard like Duke Robinson in the second round if he’s the best player available, too.
BILL COATS
If the Lions don’t take Curry with the No. 1 pick, he’d be my choice. Otherwise, I’d target the offensive line. It’s so important, and the Rams really need to beef things up there. I don’t want to say wide receivers are a dime a dozen, but the Rams will be able to fill out that position without much difficulty.
JEFF GORDON
It appears that Curry is a cornerstone defensive player. Since Steve Spagnuolo wants to rebuild the Rams around its ground game and defense, Curry would be a great get. Crabtree is an attractive option, too, since he appears head and shoulders above the other WR prospects. There are lots of good tackles in this draft, but its debatable whether any merit a No. 2 overall pick and the huge money that comes with it.
KEVIN WHEELER (Host of “Sports Open Line” on KMOX)
I like the “best player available” theory. If the Lions take anyone not named Aaron Curry, the Wake Forest linebacker would be my selection. I’ve heard far too many NFL scouting types refer to Curry as the “cleanest” player on the board to think about passing him by, plus linebacker is an area of significant need.
Also of note, the offensive line and wide receiver positions are deeper in this year’s draft. There are several receivers that could be available at the top of the second round who are attractive to teams looking for bigger receivers. I’m a particular fan of Brian Robiskie of Ohio State — he’s got size (6’3”), good hands and great football sense.
Offensive tackles Eugene Monroe and Jason Smith are excellent prospects but they’re not “the next big thing” at their position. Taking one of them at No. 2 would be fine with me as they seem to be solid players and people but neither is at the level Orlando Pace was coming out of college. Heck, a couple of months ago Andre Smith was viewed by many as the top tackle in this year’s draft class.
Ideally the team would add a little more free agent depth so they could follow the “best player available” strategy.
http://www.stltoday.com/blogzone/round-two...ackle-lb-or-wr/
03.17.2009
Rams draft: Tackle, LB or WR?
By Roger Hensley
THE WATERCOOLER
QUESTION: Most have assumed the Rams would grab either an offensive tackle like Eugene Monroe or linebacker Aaron Curry with the No. 2 overall pick in the draft. However, with last week’s release of Orlando Pace and Torry Holt, the team is down to just three young WRs and face a draft class with a lot of talent at the top of the WR pool? Which direction do you believe this team needs to go in the draft: Offensive tackle, linebacker or wide receiver?
JIM THOMAS
Tackle. Tackle. Tackle. Alex Barron is the only player currently on the roster with substantial experience at the position. And his contract expires after this season. Assuming that he can make a seamless transition to left tackle and Jacob Bell can step right in at right tackle without a hitch goes a couple of steps beyond optimism.
BERNIE MIKLASZ
Good question. I am planning to write a column on this subject. More than anything the Rams can’t afford to be prisoners of need. They have a new GM and coaching staff in place. This is the beginning of an era. This is the start of something new, and hopefully it will be built to last. The Rams have to draft with the next 10 years in mind. They can’t worry about immediate needs. They have to go with the player who will best help them win over the long haul. So I don’t care who they draft in terms of position. They have to rely on their scouting and trust the grades they give each prospect. If the top grade conclusively belongs to Aaron Curry, then draft the LB. The same principle applies to OT, WR or even QB. Trust your scouting. Go with the best player and you won’t go wrong.
BRYAN BURWELL
If only we could see what the Rams draft board looked like, it would make this an easier task. But I think you build your team from the offensive line because the ability to run and protect the quarterback is the most important key to having a functional offense. Go with a tackle in the first round, and I’d be tempted to get a block-out-the-sun guard like Duke Robinson in the second round if he’s the best player available, too.
BILL COATS
If the Lions don’t take Curry with the No. 1 pick, he’d be my choice. Otherwise, I’d target the offensive line. It’s so important, and the Rams really need to beef things up there. I don’t want to say wide receivers are a dime a dozen, but the Rams will be able to fill out that position without much difficulty.
JEFF GORDON
It appears that Curry is a cornerstone defensive player. Since Steve Spagnuolo wants to rebuild the Rams around its ground game and defense, Curry would be a great get. Crabtree is an attractive option, too, since he appears head and shoulders above the other WR prospects. There are lots of good tackles in this draft, but its debatable whether any merit a No. 2 overall pick and the huge money that comes with it.
KEVIN WHEELER (Host of “Sports Open Line” on KMOX)
I like the “best player available” theory. If the Lions take anyone not named Aaron Curry, the Wake Forest linebacker would be my selection. I’ve heard far too many NFL scouting types refer to Curry as the “cleanest” player on the board to think about passing him by, plus linebacker is an area of significant need.
Also of note, the offensive line and wide receiver positions are deeper in this year’s draft. There are several receivers that could be available at the top of the second round who are attractive to teams looking for bigger receivers. I’m a particular fan of Brian Robiskie of Ohio State — he’s got size (6’3”), good hands and great football sense.
Offensive tackles Eugene Monroe and Jason Smith are excellent prospects but they’re not “the next big thing” at their position. Taking one of them at No. 2 would be fine with me as they seem to be solid players and people but neither is at the level Orlando Pace was coming out of college. Heck, a couple of months ago Andre Smith was viewed by many as the top tackle in this year’s draft class.
Ideally the team would add a little more free agent depth so they could follow the “best player available” strategy.
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Bob Magaw
Footballguy
a sort of "flowchart" or "decision tree" on what to do with the 1.2 & why...
this sums up some of my more diffuse thinking on the matter upthread, & i don't expect to add too much on this particular subject, unless there are some drastically material or substantive changes between now & the draft...
________________________________________________________________
1 - at the top of the draft, there are a few players that are all very good (if not EXACTLY equal, whatever that would connote, in grade)
2 - the rams have holes... MANY... & BIG...
3 - putting 1 & 2 together, there are probably at least three permutations for us at the 1.2 that would be logical, & defensible (LT, LB or WR)...
4 - the closer together the grades of the top handful of blue chip, elite prospects are, & the closer together are the size of the holes we have to fill at the respective positions, it makes whatever pick we make almost interchangeable...
5 - the good thing about this is we wil get a really good, almost interchangeable blue chip player, filling an almost interchangeable huge hole, whether we get monro/smith, curry or crabtree at LT, LB or WR...
6 - the bad thing about this, is when decisions are non-obvious (obvious being where everybody would agree, if a prospect was CLEARLY the best BPA in the draft, or there was only ONE clear hole that the rams needed to attend to first, in which case the debate wouldn't be nearly as polarizing & divisive... i don't think this is the case here, either way), people tend to agonize over them even more...
7 - while there is more of a consensus that curry, & arguably crabtree are the best talents in the draft, there is not as much of a consensus HERE on the board about where monroe & jason smith should be considered so... some scouts like mayock have them quite high (both in the top four)...
8 - it follows from that, clearly if monroe/smith are not elite talents, we should not reach for a marginal prospect, just to fill a need, no matter how huge (& for the aforementioned reason that some of the other, arguably more highly graded BPAs, also fit compelling needs at other positions, & arguably present a better intersection of BPA/team need)... this would point to curry or crabtree...
9 - to the degree that monroe or smith do carry approximately as high a grade as curry/crabtree, one potentially important reason to suggest taking a LT... elite LTs can be incredibly hard to find, in terms of where they go in the draft, & they pretty much don't hit the open market if they are good & young... TYPICALLY, the draft pick needed to land a good LB or WR is lower than an elite tackle... there are exceptions... clady a great tackle that went around 1.12, LBs like willis went around 1.10 & beason lower, i think in second half of 1st in his class... though consensus top LTs in past few years like joe thomas & jake long went very high (i've asked those who say monroe & smith aren't in their league to characterize how close or far away they are, but yet to see anybody attemp to quantify or give an approximate "magnitude" of the putative "gap"... 80%, 70%??? obviously how one answers that is going to shape how they feel about drafting the LT first or the LB/WR)... if curry or crabtree are once in a decade talents like ray lewis or larry fitzgerald, needless to say, it will be hard for monroe or smith to live up to that...
10 - another important reason to recommend a LT (imo), is it is easier to see how it could have a "force multiplier"-type ripple through impact on other areas of the roster... wil crabtree help if the OL is lousy & bulger (or any QB for that matter?) is on his back constantly... will jackson find holes in the run game if DL & LBs are constantly crashing in & penetrating behind the LOS? will curry help much if the DL can't control the LOS & keep blockers off him (long might be the only cornerstone player we have on the DL... little past his prime & injury riddled, carriker a BIG question mark)? whereas, if monroe or smith are as good as advertised & develope into very good players(even if not prennial pro bowl caliber or level, which curry may well turn into, & possibly crabtree), its fairly straightforward to see how that could help bulger, jackson, & even the defense...
11 - are there X-factors that can elude any analysis that suggests an elite back seven defender like curry is somewhat "wasted" when behind mediocre front four... ray lewis is so charismatic that he can elevate his teammates level of play by his example, intensity & the tone he sets (& besides, there is always the risk that maybe he'll hurt you if you don't give full effort)... yet he did his best work behind adams & siragusa, so not sure that is a great example to make THIS point... bob sanders is better, who when (rarely) healthy, almost singlehandedly makes his defense better (& even there, you can make a case that having the DE tandem of freeney & mathis is better than who the rams have fielded recently... but freeney has been on the way down for few years, despite his blockbuster contract, & long should have a very bright future)... perhaps curry could do something similar...
12 - this last point is somewhat mitigated, if LT is opted for, in that i'm hearing very good things about monroe & smith in a lot of ways... athleticism, feet, agility, maturity, professionalism, work ethic, & a constellation of intangibles... monroe a safer projection as a technician & as far as being pro ready... smith could have crazy upside, & still a relatively high floor... i'd like either, but slightly prefer monroe if his knee checks out... that said, i wouldn't have a problem with curry or crabtree, as this is a several year rebuild... my concern is that if spags turns it around quicker than we expect, we may be drafting lower, & LT prospects like joe thomas & jake long (if monroe/smith are close) out of reach... in fairness, if curry & crabtree are as great as the scouts say, we probably wouldn't be in position to get prospects like that either... lewis did go in second half of 1st in his class... same with derrick brooks, & those are two best respective MLB & WLBs of their generation... WR like boldin gotten in mid/late-2nd... but i'm sure we could point to LTs that were success stories after middle of 1st, too...
this sums up some of my more diffuse thinking on the matter upthread, & i don't expect to add too much on this particular subject, unless there are some drastically material or substantive changes between now & the draft...
________________________________________________________________
1 - at the top of the draft, there are a few players that are all very good (if not EXACTLY equal, whatever that would connote, in grade)
2 - the rams have holes... MANY... & BIG...
3 - putting 1 & 2 together, there are probably at least three permutations for us at the 1.2 that would be logical, & defensible (LT, LB or WR)...
4 - the closer together the grades of the top handful of blue chip, elite prospects are, & the closer together are the size of the holes we have to fill at the respective positions, it makes whatever pick we make almost interchangeable...
5 - the good thing about this is we wil get a really good, almost interchangeable blue chip player, filling an almost interchangeable huge hole, whether we get monro/smith, curry or crabtree at LT, LB or WR...
6 - the bad thing about this, is when decisions are non-obvious (obvious being where everybody would agree, if a prospect was CLEARLY the best BPA in the draft, or there was only ONE clear hole that the rams needed to attend to first, in which case the debate wouldn't be nearly as polarizing & divisive... i don't think this is the case here, either way), people tend to agonize over them even more...
7 - while there is more of a consensus that curry, & arguably crabtree are the best talents in the draft, there is not as much of a consensus HERE on the board about where monroe & jason smith should be considered so... some scouts like mayock have them quite high (both in the top four)...
8 - it follows from that, clearly if monroe/smith are not elite talents, we should not reach for a marginal prospect, just to fill a need, no matter how huge (& for the aforementioned reason that some of the other, arguably more highly graded BPAs, also fit compelling needs at other positions, & arguably present a better intersection of BPA/team need)... this would point to curry or crabtree...
9 - to the degree that monroe or smith do carry approximately as high a grade as curry/crabtree, one potentially important reason to suggest taking a LT... elite LTs can be incredibly hard to find, in terms of where they go in the draft, & they pretty much don't hit the open market if they are good & young... TYPICALLY, the draft pick needed to land a good LB or WR is lower than an elite tackle... there are exceptions... clady a great tackle that went around 1.12, LBs like willis went around 1.10 & beason lower, i think in second half of 1st in his class... though consensus top LTs in past few years like joe thomas & jake long went very high (i've asked those who say monroe & smith aren't in their league to characterize how close or far away they are, but yet to see anybody attemp to quantify or give an approximate "magnitude" of the putative "gap"... 80%, 70%??? obviously how one answers that is going to shape how they feel about drafting the LT first or the LB/WR)... if curry or crabtree are once in a decade talents like ray lewis or larry fitzgerald, needless to say, it will be hard for monroe or smith to live up to that...
10 - another important reason to recommend a LT (imo), is it is easier to see how it could have a "force multiplier"-type ripple through impact on other areas of the roster... wil crabtree help if the OL is lousy & bulger (or any QB for that matter?) is on his back constantly... will jackson find holes in the run game if DL & LBs are constantly crashing in & penetrating behind the LOS? will curry help much if the DL can't control the LOS & keep blockers off him (long might be the only cornerstone player we have on the DL... little past his prime & injury riddled, carriker a BIG question mark)? whereas, if monroe or smith are as good as advertised & develope into very good players(even if not prennial pro bowl caliber or level, which curry may well turn into, & possibly crabtree), its fairly straightforward to see how that could help bulger, jackson, & even the defense...
11 - are there X-factors that can elude any analysis that suggests an elite back seven defender like curry is somewhat "wasted" when behind mediocre front four... ray lewis is so charismatic that he can elevate his teammates level of play by his example, intensity & the tone he sets (& besides, there is always the risk that maybe he'll hurt you if you don't give full effort)... yet he did his best work behind adams & siragusa, so not sure that is a great example to make THIS point... bob sanders is better, who when (rarely) healthy, almost singlehandedly makes his defense better (& even there, you can make a case that having the DE tandem of freeney & mathis is better than who the rams have fielded recently... but freeney has been on the way down for few years, despite his blockbuster contract, & long should have a very bright future)... perhaps curry could do something similar...
12 - this last point is somewhat mitigated, if LT is opted for, in that i'm hearing very good things about monroe & smith in a lot of ways... athleticism, feet, agility, maturity, professionalism, work ethic, & a constellation of intangibles... monroe a safer projection as a technician & as far as being pro ready... smith could have crazy upside, & still a relatively high floor... i'd like either, but slightly prefer monroe if his knee checks out... that said, i wouldn't have a problem with curry or crabtree, as this is a several year rebuild... my concern is that if spags turns it around quicker than we expect, we may be drafting lower, & LT prospects like joe thomas & jake long (if monroe/smith are close) out of reach... in fairness, if curry & crabtree are as great as the scouts say, we probably wouldn't be in position to get prospects like that either... lewis did go in second half of 1st in his class... same with derrick brooks, & those are two best respective MLB & WLBs of their generation... WR like boldin gotten in mid/late-2nd... but i'm sure we could point to LTs that were success stories after middle of 1st, too...
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Bob Magaw
Footballguy
is barron the future at LT?
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really two questions...
how many think he would be OK this year (if they drafted curry, crabtree, stafford, raji)...
also, the rams will have to make a decision soon on whether to re-sign barron... this could be a pivotal season for the team to decide if he is in their future... doubtful it is conclusive that he is has done enough so far for a contract re-up to be a slam dunk...
the second question more important... for a rebuilding team coming off 5-27 record in '07-'08, its not like playoff expectations are there... but what is in store for the half decade or more AFTER this hopefully not too long rebuild looms large... the barron decision on whether to re-sign him long term (interlinked with what direction we turn to with 1.2) should be a momentous one... ideally we could have a time machine & see what he could do this year BEFORE the draft, but the front office/coaching staff war room will have to make the 1.2 call without having all the information in on barron (for instance, a natural LT, has been playing out of position at RT for much of his pro career... did flash some promise briefly one of the times pace went down, but very much a mixed bag, with questionable football smarts, focus, concentration, intensity, desire, passion... how much does he really like the game... will he play up to a big contract?)...
a scary thing about not getting a LT is that if barron bombs (i actually don't think he would/will, but not as sure about whether they want to hitch their future to him long term at one of the most important positions on the field?), STL could have none on the roster soon... what if they aren't in as good a position to get a prospect in 2010 (or it is a bad class)... can't get one in free agency or trade... so maybe try & fix it in 2011... but it can take OL 1-2 years to get up to speed... so risk of being mediocre at position until 2012-2013?
even if monroe/smith aren't future pro bowlers, if they are very good prospects with relatively high floors, its going to be tough to pass... monroe's knee history could be a concern, but if they pick him, i have to think medical staff vetted it closely & greenlit the decision... the rams need to look HARD at fixing what has been a big problem for years (with pace's inexorable deterioration), and start grooming the future at the position soon, IF IT ISN'T BARRON!
if it is, of course, it takes a lot of pressure off, as it is far easier (& cheaper pick-wise) to get RTs types, in draft or elsewhere...
_____________________
really two questions...
how many think he would be OK this year (if they drafted curry, crabtree, stafford, raji)...
also, the rams will have to make a decision soon on whether to re-sign barron... this could be a pivotal season for the team to decide if he is in their future... doubtful it is conclusive that he is has done enough so far for a contract re-up to be a slam dunk...
the second question more important... for a rebuilding team coming off 5-27 record in '07-'08, its not like playoff expectations are there... but what is in store for the half decade or more AFTER this hopefully not too long rebuild looms large... the barron decision on whether to re-sign him long term (interlinked with what direction we turn to with 1.2) should be a momentous one... ideally we could have a time machine & see what he could do this year BEFORE the draft, but the front office/coaching staff war room will have to make the 1.2 call without having all the information in on barron (for instance, a natural LT, has been playing out of position at RT for much of his pro career... did flash some promise briefly one of the times pace went down, but very much a mixed bag, with questionable football smarts, focus, concentration, intensity, desire, passion... how much does he really like the game... will he play up to a big contract?)...
a scary thing about not getting a LT is that if barron bombs (i actually don't think he would/will, but not as sure about whether they want to hitch their future to him long term at one of the most important positions on the field?), STL could have none on the roster soon... what if they aren't in as good a position to get a prospect in 2010 (or it is a bad class)... can't get one in free agency or trade... so maybe try & fix it in 2011... but it can take OL 1-2 years to get up to speed... so risk of being mediocre at position until 2012-2013?
even if monroe/smith aren't future pro bowlers, if they are very good prospects with relatively high floors, its going to be tough to pass... monroe's knee history could be a concern, but if they pick him, i have to think medical staff vetted it closely & greenlit the decision... the rams need to look HARD at fixing what has been a big problem for years (with pace's inexorable deterioration), and start grooming the future at the position soon, IF IT ISN'T BARRON!
if it is, of course, it takes a lot of pressure off, as it is far easier (& cheaper pick-wise) to get RTs types, in draft or elsewhere...
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
jim thomas chat from 3/27...
http://www.ramsrule.com/theoriginalherd/dc...56761&page=
ncdc: Hey Jim,
Someone is passing the buck. Your thoughts?
ncdc: Dear Gordo,
Have you heard if there is any interest on the Rams part in free agent DT Shaun Cody? As a three+ year starter for Detroit, he hasn't quite lived up to the USC and 2nd round hype, but at 6-4 308 would be very good as Carriker's backup/rotational player, IMO. Your thoughts?
Jeff Gordon: I would check with Jim Thomas to see if there is any interest there.
Jim Thomas: I believe Cody has signed elsewhere.
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ernie from central california: Jim,
The Rams need additional makeovers (truth hurts), what do you think about trading their 2nd pick for Philly's 2 -#1's (21 and 28)? Philly would entertain that idea since they feel they are a player or two away from the big show. The Rams could then draft high quality and quantity, assuming that they are not back to their ole ? drafting ways. What do ya think?
Jim Thomas: I'm not sure if getting a 21 and 28 is enough for a No. 2. No. 2 is pretty high real estate.
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Tim: IM not sure what I think of Barron being moved to Left tackle. Obviously he has all the potential to be elite at the LT spot, I think the best in the league. Obviously though just not the passion or focus. My question is how does one coach a guy to play harder, not make stupid mistakes, and play with some fire? Obviously Linehan not only failed with Barron but the rest of the team. COuld an offseason of old school weight lifting, harder work, and a Coach like Spagnolo really be the ticket or are those things that just can be coached? What do you think?
Jim Thomas: Well, you have to hope that's the case. But Barron has frustrated more than one set of head coaches and line coaches. He's still young enough to mature, but you have to wonder after four seasons in the league if he's going to change.
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S. Monkey: Hi JT,
Thanks always for the chats. How do you see the defensive line shaping up for the start of the year? Will Little be our starting DE or will he and Adeyanju rotate? Will James Hall be used as an interior pass rusher or on the edge? Lastly, will there be any more additions to the DLine via the draft or remaining waves of free agency?
Jim Thomas: We'll see. Spagnuolo obviously may have other ideas. But I would guess Adeyanju is used on some run downs, with Little specializing in passing situations (but still being used on some run downs). Some scouts around the league think fairly highly of Adeyanju and feel he would be a pretty good 3-4 end. Obviously, Hall has value as an interior pass rusher on passing downs, and given Spagnuolo's track record at New York of often playing four DEs on passing downs, I would expect this to continue. As for additions, you've got to feel the Rams will add an interior guy. Right now, it's only Carriker and Ryan at DT. And I do know that the Rams have legitimate interest in Ziggy Hood.
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OT RamFan: I watched Warner get destroyed with Martz offense and the same happened to Bulger, who unfortunately continued to get pulverized thereafter, all well-documented. Warner took a few years to recover but seems to have his courage and desire back, but he never had a contract like Bulger. My question: can you go back to what Warner was like at the stage Bulger is in and have any insight into the comparison of their psychological and emotional make-up and project your opinion with regard to Bulger ever making it back. My impression is Warner has a much tougher mental approach, would love to be wrong. Personally, I don't know how either of them took the beatings and went back. Warner didn't bounce right back and I don't think Bulger will either. Maybe Spags can speed the process with maximum protection schemes.
Jim Thomas: I don't really want to get into the psyches of Warner and Bulger, but I do think Warner is more of a natural leader than Bulger. I think a system with a more balanced approach on offense and a stronger defense will take some of the pressure off Bulger and allow him to get his mojo back. But on the other hand, who will Bulger be throwing to in '09? That has to be a concern. For years, he relied on Bruce and Holt, now they're both gone. Another factor with Warner, beyond getting beat up and or shellshocked. He has had that thumb issue (from his Arena League days), and when he started wearing a glove on his throwing hand in '07, his grip improved and his ball security improved. That has made a big difference in his amazing renaissance. (Although it doesn't hurt having Boldin and Fitzgerald on hand, either.)
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pickthebest: Some want to draft Curry as a MLB with the second pick. If he was an outside linebacker in college, why would he be worthy of the 2nd pick as a MLB? As and OLB would he be worth the #2 pick?
Jim Thomas: Inside or outside, the key is whether the guy can be an everydown player. Curry can be an every down player. From all I've been told he's good enough in coverage to do so. So I think it would work with Witherspoon and Curry on the outside and Chris Draft in the middle. Plus, at the NFC coaches breakfast in California, Spags indicated that what he did with the Giants was as much left and right side LBs rather than weakside-strongside.
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Oliver: Hey Jim
I have 3 questions.
1. How do you think our LB situation will be next year if we don't draft Curry? No one seems to be good except Will Witherspoon but hes not playing at his natural position.
2. Are we still looking at the Free Agency for a WR?
3. How capable is Alex Barron at LT and others at RT for run-blocking? If we didn't draft an OT at the 2nd pick, is there a possibility that we could draft a capable OT at the second round pick (if so, who?) and be used for RT? Or would that make the O-line as ineffective as last year?
thanks
Jim Thomas: 1.) Good question. For now, Draft is the MLB and Witherspoon is OLB. We'll see who the team lines up at the other OLB position at the minicamp next week.
2.) I would keep an eye on Hilliard or Toomer. (At age 32, neither quite fits the Spags/Devaney profile, but I think they could make an exception here for the short-term.) Also, I'm told they could re-visit Dane Looker after the draft.
3.) If the Rams don't take a tackle in the first round, keep an eye on Connecticut's William Beatty in Round 2. The Rams like him.
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virginiatom: Any thoughts on who the Rams like in the draft as their future quarterback?
Jim Thomas: They do have a legitimate interest in Fresno State's Tom Brandstater.
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DBQIA: Other than Maclin, Hood, Coffman, and possibly Daniels who of last year's Mizzou seniors has a real chance in the NFL. If they are to make it what role would they play. Do any of them have a chance of being drafted or are they bound to rise from the ranks of the undrafted.
Jim Thomas: Don't forget William Moore. He looks like a second_ or third-round draft pick.
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Peter Australia: Hi Jim,
Good to see what is happening with the team makes a real difference when someone is in charge who actually has a plan.
The offensive line and the receivers still look short of depth, any news on if we are going to stay young there and let these players develop or look at a few trades as the free agents list now seams pretty thin?
Thanks.
Jim Thomas: The Rams can't go into next season with their current lineup at WR and OT. They know it; we know it. We'll see what happens in the draft and the remainder of free agency.
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KY Ram: any new news out of rams park? anything?
Jim Thomas: It's quiet out here today. Billy Devaney is back from California and dropped by after his lunchtime jog. The team is really gearing up for the draft, and don't forget, there's the veteran minicamp next Thurs., Fri., and Sat.
I know I've said this before, but Gus Frerotte will get done at some point.
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mike barttelbort: Hello again, I dont understand Devaney when he says he wants players 25 years old to 30--so far he's backed up the talk--but along comes Gus frerotte--ok we are not going to be in the running this year--why Frerotte and if berlin cant play why keep him on the roster
I say JP Losman or Rex Grossman is a better fit-for that matter I'd take Michael Vick
your thoughts?
mb
Jim Thomas: Good question, and I don't know exactly how to answer it. Obviously, there are exceptions for every rule. I thought Losman or Boller might be worth a look, but they might be more expensive than Frerotte.
Vick is not the kind of person the Rams are looking for.
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mike barttelbort: If the Lions take the baylor tackle, and if this Stafford is a real leader type guy, top five pick, there is no way the Rams should pass him up
As a former big red season ticket holder and current Rams psl holder-it makes no since to pass up the chance to pick up a player that could be here for 10 years-
Jim Thomas: If the Lions take Jason Smith, why not take Eugene Monroe. I think he could be around for 10 years himself.
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Marty: Hello Jim. Just wondering if you've heard of or seen any movement concerning the "improvements" to the Dome. Have they even started yet? Thanks for your reports.
Jim Thomas: I don't know of many details, but Bob Wallace has told me work indeed is underway on the improvements at the dome. I was at the motorcyle supercross races March 21 with my 12-year-old, and couldn't see anything different in the dome, but Wallace says some work has started.
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sintek: Hey Jim,
After the last couple of signings with Goldberg and such do you know how much the Rams are under the salary cap??
Also, I have heard rumblings of Braylon Edwards being available for trade. Do you think the Rams would have any interest in him?? He was a beast when he came to St Louis a couple years ago even though I know he had kind of an average year last year.
Thanks
Jim Thomas: As much as I cover the league, it's always hardest to get a true read on trades. I'm unaware of any Rams interest in Edwards, but that doesn't mean it's not there. Edwards did have a monster game against the Rams in '07, but I'm told he had a lot of drops last season.
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Yorkshire Rams Fan: Hey Jim,
I know that you seem to be advocating that the Rams pick an OT (either Smith or Monroe) with the Rams first pick this year. However, would it not make more sense to take a player like Curry who has consistently been viewed as head and shoulders better than all other defensive players in this years draft, than an OT who only a few weeks ago was viewed as similar to Oher, Andre Smith etc. To me, the OTs in this draft appear to have separated on combine performances and NOT game performances. Curry's stock has never wavered and most experts seem to rate him as a sensational prospect. Why do we not take him if he's available and take an OT in round 2?
Thanks for your time,
Rich
Jim Thomas: Believe me, I'd have no problem with Curry. The concern though, is who the Rams could get in the second round or later at OT that could help right away.
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Jacob: Will the rams go after anymore free agents that will start for the team?
Jim Thomas: It doesn't look that way at this point, although they could go after a discount WR or discount LB before or after the draft.
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owen: I Feel that if we do not take an ot with our first pick the chance of getting a player in the second rd is very slim based on the way the LT's where drafted last year. I like two possible drafts,one taking monroe,ziggy hood,jasper brinkley and rashad jennings.the 2nd still with monroe, clint sintim,austin collie and rashad jennings.what do you think
Jim Thomas: Projecting behind the second round is very tough. There are just too many variables.
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midnighter67: Like many, I would love to see the Rams get Curry but the offensive tackle position seems more pressing. Assuming the Rams get Smith or Monroe in the first round, how about Kenny Britt in the second? He has excellent size and is the physical type of receiver this team has never had.
Jim Thomas: I'd have to think Britt and Robiskie would be possibilities, or even Hakeem Nicks.
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SoCal Bill: Jim,
Just curious if you know what are actaul uniforms are this year. I feel like we are no longer going with gold pants, but are we using blue pants away and home or white pants away and home?
I also wanted to point out I am tired of all these teams wearing white jerseys at home. The NFL should make it manditory for teams to wear darks at home and whites away or other way around, but all teams should abide by the same rules. We only wore our white jerseys once throught the first 7 weeks, but I guess I wouldn't care if we were winning.
Thanks Jim
Jim Thomas: Spags may put his own stamp on the unis, but I do know this: Chip Rosenbloom hates the gold pants. I think he has described them as "disco gold."
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goldhorns: hi jim,
Instead of the same questions posted the last few weeks, how about a what if?? I like Carriker but i think he is playing out of position. The KC Chiefs are going to a 3-4. Carriker for Glenn Dorsey.? I think Carriker would be a natural in the 3-4 and we could use a true 4-3 DT. Or if not the chiefs what about a trade for picks or another player from another team?? your thoughts...... thank you
Jim Thomas: I don't think the Chiefs are ready to give up on Dorsey. Besides, he's too early into his contract, so the cap ramifications probably would make trading him prohibitive.
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The Rookie: Sorry to bother you again what is Devaney's & Spag's wonderlic score anyway?
Jim Thomas: Don't know, but I took it about 5 years ago or so, and scored a 28.
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bowman1429: Maybe a dumb question but, why do the Rams picks alternate with the Chiefs from Round to Round of the draft?
Jim Thomas: Because they both finished with identical 2-14 records. The Rams get to go ahead of the Chiefs in Round 1 because the Chiefs had a slightly tougher schedule. (The first tie-breaker is reverse strength of schedule.)
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RamFanInCA: Hi Jim,
Thanks for taking the time to squeeze a chat in for us this week. Sorry you had to brave the tough weather in Dana Point. Nice place, I've been there a few times. Anyway...when Devaney spoke about his zero tolerance policy for the draft, do you know exactly where he has set the bar? Is he talking about arrests or convictions? A lot of guys have been arrested that could be judged to be of good character. I'm concerned that we may be overreacting a bit. What do you think?
Jim Thomas: I don't know exactly where the bar was set. But Devaney didn't really take any obvious risks in the draft last year. It'll be interesting to see once again how it plays out. A lot of GMs and coaches talk a good game in terms of the character thing, but bend the rules for talent.
As for Dana Point, it is a nice area. I've noticed over the years that the NFL owners never stay at places like the Red Roof Inn in Dubuque, Iowa. (But actually, the weather was better in St. Louis at the start of the week than Dana Point.)
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RamFanInCA: Hi Jim,
Are you surprised that Holt and Pace are still looking for work? (As of the writing of the question)
Thanks.
Jim Thomas: Not really. Only because I know they can afford to be picky. (Pace just might reitre I'm told if he doesn't get a situation he likes.) And I don't expect that either will get the kind of money they were making in Stl.
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tom: how much cap space do we have? and does that figure in how much cap space we have for rookies? And realistically what can we buy for that amount?
Jim Thomas: I haven't checked the cap space lately. Obviously, the amount the Rams need for their rookies is subtracted from the overall total. I think the Rams have enough to continue to make a few depth purchases in free agency. But if a more expensive opportunity came along that was intriguiging, I believe they'd have the flexibility to make something happen.
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tom: I see that chris draft is going to line up(initially at least) at middle linebacker. Has he played that position before? recently? successfully?
Jim Thomas: Remember, late last season Draft replaced the ailing Witherspoon at MLB for the final four games. I think Draft's size and style of play makes him a good fit as a solid _ not spectacular _ MLB.
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tom: is la'roi glover still on the team? who/what do we have at defensive tackle? It seemed a weak link to me the last few seasons
Jim Thomas: Glvoer is an unrestricted free agent. The Rams have no interest in re-signing him; I don't think he's drawn any interest from other clubs; he told me late in the '08 season that he'd retire if he didn't return to the Rams.
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B-Ball Fan: Glad Goldberg is back in the fold. Does this mean we will draft the best player available @ # 2 now for sure ?
Jim Thomas: I don't think the signing of Goldberg has anything to do with taking a tackle at No. 2 overall. Although a handy player to have on the roster, Goldberg is a backup and spot starter. Not a full-time starter.
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Terrapin03: Jim -
Is it just small market paranoia, or does the NFL seem to cater to Robert Kraft and the Patriots moreso than any other team in the league? Exhibit A: the new rule regarding defensive players lunging at a QB's legs. Do other teams and/or fan bases share this feeling of inequity?
Thanks for your time!
Jim Thomas: Pardon my provinciality, but the league does seem to like Mr. Kraft.
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Joey: Hey Mr. Thomas. Thanks for your time.
1)Are the Rams set to start Avery and Burton and/or a rookie WR. As there are no starter free agents and Devaney has a no tolerance (so no Matt Jones) policy are there any oars in the water via trade. I can't believe Chad Lucas is the solution?
2)A quiet signing of Safety Craig Dahl who has made and been slightly productive under our new head coach. Were the Rams keeping an eye on him or is he just a camp body?
Keep the information coming and thanks again.
Jim Thomas: 1.) I've got to think there's another wide receiver or two on the way from somewhere. (Although it could be a rookie draft pick.)
2.) The Rams need a fourth safety behind starters Atogwe and Butler, and backup Todd Johnson. That's could be where Dahl fits in.
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Colton: Hey Jim, How big of a need do you see Nose Tackle as? I think we REALLY need a big, run stuffing, blocker eating, Nose Tackle. It will help keep blockers off of our MLB(hopefully Curry) alot and improve our run defense greatly.
Also do you see a chance at Shaun Rogers? I would love to get him or Ron Brace in the 2nd. After all we were 29th in the league in rushing yards against us per game.
Thanks,
Colton
Jim Thomas: Agreed. Agreed. Agreed.
Don't know about Rogers, and how much he would cost.
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Dale P: Jim,
If you were running the show for the Rams on draft day and you are aware the Rams need help at OT , MLB and WR , and you wanted to get the player who would provide the most impact , who would you draft first and why. Thanks.
I love you your comments and always read them .
Jim Thomas: Putting me on the spot. How about Adam Curry in Round 1; William Beatty in Round 2; and I don't know at WR in Round 3?
Or Eugene Monroe in Round 1; Connor Barwin in Round 2; and I don't know at WR in Round 3.
Or Eugene Monroe in Round 1; Hakeem Nicke in Round 2; and I don't know at LB in Round 3.
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Drew: JT
If we go Curry with the 2nd pick overall in round 1, does your gut say WR or OT in round 2?
Jim Thomas: OT
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cbc1b: What wide bodies can we hope for to be brought in on a free agent basis to be put in the rotation for defensive tackle, when do they cut ties with Wroten and how much will that save on the salary cap?
Jim Thomas: I believe the Rams can cut ties with Wroten as soon as his suspension ends. I think he can be reinstated sometime in May but I'm not 100 percent sure on that. He counts $726,000 against the cap.
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dominic: Hey Jim:
1)What are your sources telling you about B.J.Raji?
2)Am I wrong,but the impressions Im getting is we can see dt and ot as our first two draft choices.Would B.J. be a reach as the first round pick over Jason Smith?And who do you prefer?
3)Will you follow Bernie to 101 for our beloved Rams updates?Or the answer is....to be continued???
Jim Thomas: 1.) I haven't heard much with regard to the Rams and Raji. And as of right now, I don't think he's scheduled for one of those "Top 30" predraft visits to Rams Park.
2.) We'll see on the DT; I think the Rams could just as easily go with someboyd like Tyson Jackson in Round 2, who is a DE who is big enough to play DT.
3.) Funny you should mention; just this morning I signed with 101 FM.
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Steve Roberts: Jim, Tank Johnson isn't the cleanest character nor exactly a pillar like Spags wants but do you think the Rams might consider signing him as a NT within a rotation? He was found innocent of his last arrest in Chicago back in '07 and he's been doing a lot of community service in Florida. He's still only 27 years old so he fits the rest of their signings.
The Rams need a NT and there just aren't many semi-young AND talented unrestricted free agents available. Dewayne Robertson and Kenderick Allen are all I can find remaining to fit the bill after Johnson.
Jim Thomas: I'd kind of doubt it on Tank; Robertson could be intriguing.
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Tim: Do you think Aaron Curry will be better than Ray Lewis at his Prime?
Jim Thomas: Geez, that would be saying a lot. Lewis is one of the best MLBs in league history.
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Tim: What do you think about Rashad Jennings? I like this guy alot and think the Rams should take him in the 3rd. Spags is trying to establish a power running team and adding him gives them 2 solid power runners and a solid blocking fullback to open up holes.
Jim Thomas: You know, I just don't have a good read or feel for what the Rams are doing for backup running back.
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Steve B.: Jim:
If Chris Draft is the new MLB, asssuming the Rams do not acquire a starting LB in the draft, who do you think play the other OLB position with Spoon? Pisa is pretty small for a SAM LB, but Culbertson was a dissapointment there last year. I'm sure they will draft a LB, but if they don't take Curry it isn't clear that guy will start.
Jim Thomas: Obviously there are a lot of variables. But Connor Barwin could be an option in Round 2.
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LA Rams fan: Hey Jim,
Thanks in advance for the chat. Any chance the Rams will deal for Boldin?
What meaningful free agents are available on the defensive side that we might be able to stock up on?
Keep on kicking ###, Jim!
Jim Thomas: I don't know, but why wouldn't the Rams at least kick the tires with Boldin and Braylon Edwards?
As I mentioned earlier, Dewayne Roberston is still out there as DT; LB Morlon Greenwood I think is still available and could be an option. But at this stage, guys like that could be post-draft pickups.
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Jim Thomas: Cadet Thomas didn't come home for spring break, he went with some cadets to Matzlazan (Sp?) Mexico. He lost his cell phone (in a New York cab) on the way back to campus. (Since I once lost my wallet in a strip club as a college freshman, I wasn't too distressed.)
As for the Rams, I do think they're off to a good start. The moves to date look good on paper. We'll see what happens once the game start. But for now, there seems to be good chemistry between Spags, Devaney, and Demoff. There seems to be a game plan. And I too think Chip deserves some credit. (I'm working on a Q&A with him for Sunday's paper, by the way, based off an interview at the owners meetings.) Chip has had to make a lot of tough decisions in his first year on the job. And I think all of them have been made with a sincere interest to improve the product and try to get this franchise back on solid footing. Believe me, it wasn't easy for him to fire a coach in mid season, _ early season, actually _ not retain Haslett, and clean out the front office (particularly Zygmunt, who he has known for a long time), as well as agree to the release of mainstays such as Pace and Holt.
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Mike Gregory: If Aaron Curry is the highest rated player in the draft, to me it's a no-brainer, you must take him because we do need linebackers. Also, there appears to be more depth at offensive tackle than at inside linebacker. Several tackles will still be available at pick #35 whereas inside linebackers such as Maualuga and Laurinitis will probably be gone. Something else to ponder, what if Ziggy Hood is sitting there at #35? Wouldn't that help our defensive tackle rotation? One more question, I understand that the Jones Dome is undergoing renovations so the draft party cannot be held there, but what about Rams Park for the draft party? I would think after the last two seasons, the Rams need to establish some rapport with their most loyal fans, wouldn't you think? Thanks, Mike.
Jim Thomas: True, the dome won't be available due to the reservations. The indoor facility, I'm told, is being considered for the draft part. But that's still to be determined.
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NYRAMFAN26: Jim -
Obvious need is WR and there is a certain veteran available with ties to the Rams. What are the realistic chances the Rams will even speak with Bruce and what are the chances he would come back? Think about the possibilities of fixing a major wrong. We could sign him for one year with incentive filled contract. Fans get one last year to thank him for everything he has done and the new organization gets to show it actually cares for people who have bled gold and blue for this team. He would be an excellent mentor not just to the WR's but to the whole team and he could retire a RAM. Finally -- he moves into coaching (ala Henry Ellard) and stays with the organization for years to come. Can you write a better conclusion to the Isaac Bruce legend! Start the noise now and get Devaney to work something out.
Jim Thomas: I like what you're saying, and if you put the truth serum into the front office, I think they'd tell you that Bruce has more left at this stage than Torry (their opinion). But they seem to be divesting themselves of those Greatest Show on Turf Rams, so I'd say unlikely. But if Bruce gets cut, it's certainly worth checking out.
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Armen Dacity: Any word on who the top prospects (Monroe, J.Smith, Curry, Raji, Crabtree) have selected as agents? Do you think that matters? Are their agents (ahem... Postons... ahem...) who could tip the scales against a player (all other things being relatively equal)?
Jim Thomas: Monroe has an obscure agent, Sanat "Sunny" Shah, a U.Va. graduate, who has very few clients; Jason Smith has Ben Dogra of the St. Louis-based mega agency CAA (Condon, Steiner, etc.); Curry has Andy Ross of Octagon (another major agency that represents lots of NFLers); Crabtree has Eugene Parker (Parker's very good and gets a lot of top-flight guys, but he does occasionally have holdouts _ see Steven Jackson); I'm not sure on Raji (but I think it might be Condon.)
With that, I have to go. I'm sorry I didn't get to as many questions today _ I got sidetracked a few times during the session and had some computer issues as well. But I'll be back at the usual Tuesday time next week 1 p.m. and will talk to you then.
http://www.ramsrule.com/theoriginalherd/dc...56761&page=
ncdc: Hey Jim,
Someone is passing the buck. Your thoughts?
ncdc: Dear Gordo,
Have you heard if there is any interest on the Rams part in free agent DT Shaun Cody? As a three+ year starter for Detroit, he hasn't quite lived up to the USC and 2nd round hype, but at 6-4 308 would be very good as Carriker's backup/rotational player, IMO. Your thoughts?
Jeff Gordon: I would check with Jim Thomas to see if there is any interest there.
Jim Thomas: I believe Cody has signed elsewhere.
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ernie from central california: Jim,
The Rams need additional makeovers (truth hurts), what do you think about trading their 2nd pick for Philly's 2 -#1's (21 and 28)? Philly would entertain that idea since they feel they are a player or two away from the big show. The Rams could then draft high quality and quantity, assuming that they are not back to their ole ? drafting ways. What do ya think?
Jim Thomas: I'm not sure if getting a 21 and 28 is enough for a No. 2. No. 2 is pretty high real estate.
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Tim: IM not sure what I think of Barron being moved to Left tackle. Obviously he has all the potential to be elite at the LT spot, I think the best in the league. Obviously though just not the passion or focus. My question is how does one coach a guy to play harder, not make stupid mistakes, and play with some fire? Obviously Linehan not only failed with Barron but the rest of the team. COuld an offseason of old school weight lifting, harder work, and a Coach like Spagnolo really be the ticket or are those things that just can be coached? What do you think?
Jim Thomas: Well, you have to hope that's the case. But Barron has frustrated more than one set of head coaches and line coaches. He's still young enough to mature, but you have to wonder after four seasons in the league if he's going to change.
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S. Monkey: Hi JT,
Thanks always for the chats. How do you see the defensive line shaping up for the start of the year? Will Little be our starting DE or will he and Adeyanju rotate? Will James Hall be used as an interior pass rusher or on the edge? Lastly, will there be any more additions to the DLine via the draft or remaining waves of free agency?
Jim Thomas: We'll see. Spagnuolo obviously may have other ideas. But I would guess Adeyanju is used on some run downs, with Little specializing in passing situations (but still being used on some run downs). Some scouts around the league think fairly highly of Adeyanju and feel he would be a pretty good 3-4 end. Obviously, Hall has value as an interior pass rusher on passing downs, and given Spagnuolo's track record at New York of often playing four DEs on passing downs, I would expect this to continue. As for additions, you've got to feel the Rams will add an interior guy. Right now, it's only Carriker and Ryan at DT. And I do know that the Rams have legitimate interest in Ziggy Hood.
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OT RamFan: I watched Warner get destroyed with Martz offense and the same happened to Bulger, who unfortunately continued to get pulverized thereafter, all well-documented. Warner took a few years to recover but seems to have his courage and desire back, but he never had a contract like Bulger. My question: can you go back to what Warner was like at the stage Bulger is in and have any insight into the comparison of their psychological and emotional make-up and project your opinion with regard to Bulger ever making it back. My impression is Warner has a much tougher mental approach, would love to be wrong. Personally, I don't know how either of them took the beatings and went back. Warner didn't bounce right back and I don't think Bulger will either. Maybe Spags can speed the process with maximum protection schemes.
Jim Thomas: I don't really want to get into the psyches of Warner and Bulger, but I do think Warner is more of a natural leader than Bulger. I think a system with a more balanced approach on offense and a stronger defense will take some of the pressure off Bulger and allow him to get his mojo back. But on the other hand, who will Bulger be throwing to in '09? That has to be a concern. For years, he relied on Bruce and Holt, now they're both gone. Another factor with Warner, beyond getting beat up and or shellshocked. He has had that thumb issue (from his Arena League days), and when he started wearing a glove on his throwing hand in '07, his grip improved and his ball security improved. That has made a big difference in his amazing renaissance. (Although it doesn't hurt having Boldin and Fitzgerald on hand, either.)
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pickthebest: Some want to draft Curry as a MLB with the second pick. If he was an outside linebacker in college, why would he be worthy of the 2nd pick as a MLB? As and OLB would he be worth the #2 pick?
Jim Thomas: Inside or outside, the key is whether the guy can be an everydown player. Curry can be an every down player. From all I've been told he's good enough in coverage to do so. So I think it would work with Witherspoon and Curry on the outside and Chris Draft in the middle. Plus, at the NFC coaches breakfast in California, Spags indicated that what he did with the Giants was as much left and right side LBs rather than weakside-strongside.
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Oliver: Hey Jim
I have 3 questions.
1. How do you think our LB situation will be next year if we don't draft Curry? No one seems to be good except Will Witherspoon but hes not playing at his natural position.
2. Are we still looking at the Free Agency for a WR?
3. How capable is Alex Barron at LT and others at RT for run-blocking? If we didn't draft an OT at the 2nd pick, is there a possibility that we could draft a capable OT at the second round pick (if so, who?) and be used for RT? Or would that make the O-line as ineffective as last year?
thanks
Jim Thomas: 1.) Good question. For now, Draft is the MLB and Witherspoon is OLB. We'll see who the team lines up at the other OLB position at the minicamp next week.
2.) I would keep an eye on Hilliard or Toomer. (At age 32, neither quite fits the Spags/Devaney profile, but I think they could make an exception here for the short-term.) Also, I'm told they could re-visit Dane Looker after the draft.
3.) If the Rams don't take a tackle in the first round, keep an eye on Connecticut's William Beatty in Round 2. The Rams like him.
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virginiatom: Any thoughts on who the Rams like in the draft as their future quarterback?
Jim Thomas: They do have a legitimate interest in Fresno State's Tom Brandstater.
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DBQIA: Other than Maclin, Hood, Coffman, and possibly Daniels who of last year's Mizzou seniors has a real chance in the NFL. If they are to make it what role would they play. Do any of them have a chance of being drafted or are they bound to rise from the ranks of the undrafted.
Jim Thomas: Don't forget William Moore. He looks like a second_ or third-round draft pick.
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Peter Australia: Hi Jim,
Good to see what is happening with the team makes a real difference when someone is in charge who actually has a plan.
The offensive line and the receivers still look short of depth, any news on if we are going to stay young there and let these players develop or look at a few trades as the free agents list now seams pretty thin?
Thanks.
Jim Thomas: The Rams can't go into next season with their current lineup at WR and OT. They know it; we know it. We'll see what happens in the draft and the remainder of free agency.
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KY Ram: any new news out of rams park? anything?
Jim Thomas: It's quiet out here today. Billy Devaney is back from California and dropped by after his lunchtime jog. The team is really gearing up for the draft, and don't forget, there's the veteran minicamp next Thurs., Fri., and Sat.
I know I've said this before, but Gus Frerotte will get done at some point.
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mike barttelbort: Hello again, I dont understand Devaney when he says he wants players 25 years old to 30--so far he's backed up the talk--but along comes Gus frerotte--ok we are not going to be in the running this year--why Frerotte and if berlin cant play why keep him on the roster
I say JP Losman or Rex Grossman is a better fit-for that matter I'd take Michael Vick
your thoughts?
mb
Jim Thomas: Good question, and I don't know exactly how to answer it. Obviously, there are exceptions for every rule. I thought Losman or Boller might be worth a look, but they might be more expensive than Frerotte.
Vick is not the kind of person the Rams are looking for.
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mike barttelbort: If the Lions take the baylor tackle, and if this Stafford is a real leader type guy, top five pick, there is no way the Rams should pass him up
As a former big red season ticket holder and current Rams psl holder-it makes no since to pass up the chance to pick up a player that could be here for 10 years-
Jim Thomas: If the Lions take Jason Smith, why not take Eugene Monroe. I think he could be around for 10 years himself.
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Marty: Hello Jim. Just wondering if you've heard of or seen any movement concerning the "improvements" to the Dome. Have they even started yet? Thanks for your reports.
Jim Thomas: I don't know of many details, but Bob Wallace has told me work indeed is underway on the improvements at the dome. I was at the motorcyle supercross races March 21 with my 12-year-old, and couldn't see anything different in the dome, but Wallace says some work has started.
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sintek: Hey Jim,
After the last couple of signings with Goldberg and such do you know how much the Rams are under the salary cap??
Also, I have heard rumblings of Braylon Edwards being available for trade. Do you think the Rams would have any interest in him?? He was a beast when he came to St Louis a couple years ago even though I know he had kind of an average year last year.
Thanks
Jim Thomas: As much as I cover the league, it's always hardest to get a true read on trades. I'm unaware of any Rams interest in Edwards, but that doesn't mean it's not there. Edwards did have a monster game against the Rams in '07, but I'm told he had a lot of drops last season.
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Yorkshire Rams Fan: Hey Jim,
I know that you seem to be advocating that the Rams pick an OT (either Smith or Monroe) with the Rams first pick this year. However, would it not make more sense to take a player like Curry who has consistently been viewed as head and shoulders better than all other defensive players in this years draft, than an OT who only a few weeks ago was viewed as similar to Oher, Andre Smith etc. To me, the OTs in this draft appear to have separated on combine performances and NOT game performances. Curry's stock has never wavered and most experts seem to rate him as a sensational prospect. Why do we not take him if he's available and take an OT in round 2?
Thanks for your time,
Rich
Jim Thomas: Believe me, I'd have no problem with Curry. The concern though, is who the Rams could get in the second round or later at OT that could help right away.
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Jacob: Will the rams go after anymore free agents that will start for the team?
Jim Thomas: It doesn't look that way at this point, although they could go after a discount WR or discount LB before or after the draft.
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owen: I Feel that if we do not take an ot with our first pick the chance of getting a player in the second rd is very slim based on the way the LT's where drafted last year. I like two possible drafts,one taking monroe,ziggy hood,jasper brinkley and rashad jennings.the 2nd still with monroe, clint sintim,austin collie and rashad jennings.what do you think
Jim Thomas: Projecting behind the second round is very tough. There are just too many variables.
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midnighter67: Like many, I would love to see the Rams get Curry but the offensive tackle position seems more pressing. Assuming the Rams get Smith or Monroe in the first round, how about Kenny Britt in the second? He has excellent size and is the physical type of receiver this team has never had.
Jim Thomas: I'd have to think Britt and Robiskie would be possibilities, or even Hakeem Nicks.
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SoCal Bill: Jim,
Just curious if you know what are actaul uniforms are this year. I feel like we are no longer going with gold pants, but are we using blue pants away and home or white pants away and home?
I also wanted to point out I am tired of all these teams wearing white jerseys at home. The NFL should make it manditory for teams to wear darks at home and whites away or other way around, but all teams should abide by the same rules. We only wore our white jerseys once throught the first 7 weeks, but I guess I wouldn't care if we were winning.
Thanks Jim
Jim Thomas: Spags may put his own stamp on the unis, but I do know this: Chip Rosenbloom hates the gold pants. I think he has described them as "disco gold."
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goldhorns: hi jim,
Instead of the same questions posted the last few weeks, how about a what if?? I like Carriker but i think he is playing out of position. The KC Chiefs are going to a 3-4. Carriker for Glenn Dorsey.? I think Carriker would be a natural in the 3-4 and we could use a true 4-3 DT. Or if not the chiefs what about a trade for picks or another player from another team?? your thoughts...... thank you
Jim Thomas: I don't think the Chiefs are ready to give up on Dorsey. Besides, he's too early into his contract, so the cap ramifications probably would make trading him prohibitive.
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The Rookie: Sorry to bother you again what is Devaney's & Spag's wonderlic score anyway?
Jim Thomas: Don't know, but I took it about 5 years ago or so, and scored a 28.
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bowman1429: Maybe a dumb question but, why do the Rams picks alternate with the Chiefs from Round to Round of the draft?
Jim Thomas: Because they both finished with identical 2-14 records. The Rams get to go ahead of the Chiefs in Round 1 because the Chiefs had a slightly tougher schedule. (The first tie-breaker is reverse strength of schedule.)
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RamFanInCA: Hi Jim,
Thanks for taking the time to squeeze a chat in for us this week. Sorry you had to brave the tough weather in Dana Point. Nice place, I've been there a few times. Anyway...when Devaney spoke about his zero tolerance policy for the draft, do you know exactly where he has set the bar? Is he talking about arrests or convictions? A lot of guys have been arrested that could be judged to be of good character. I'm concerned that we may be overreacting a bit. What do you think?
Jim Thomas: I don't know exactly where the bar was set. But Devaney didn't really take any obvious risks in the draft last year. It'll be interesting to see once again how it plays out. A lot of GMs and coaches talk a good game in terms of the character thing, but bend the rules for talent.
As for Dana Point, it is a nice area. I've noticed over the years that the NFL owners never stay at places like the Red Roof Inn in Dubuque, Iowa. (But actually, the weather was better in St. Louis at the start of the week than Dana Point.)
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RamFanInCA: Hi Jim,
Are you surprised that Holt and Pace are still looking for work? (As of the writing of the question)
Thanks.
Jim Thomas: Not really. Only because I know they can afford to be picky. (Pace just might reitre I'm told if he doesn't get a situation he likes.) And I don't expect that either will get the kind of money they were making in Stl.
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tom: how much cap space do we have? and does that figure in how much cap space we have for rookies? And realistically what can we buy for that amount?
Jim Thomas: I haven't checked the cap space lately. Obviously, the amount the Rams need for their rookies is subtracted from the overall total. I think the Rams have enough to continue to make a few depth purchases in free agency. But if a more expensive opportunity came along that was intriguiging, I believe they'd have the flexibility to make something happen.
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tom: I see that chris draft is going to line up(initially at least) at middle linebacker. Has he played that position before? recently? successfully?
Jim Thomas: Remember, late last season Draft replaced the ailing Witherspoon at MLB for the final four games. I think Draft's size and style of play makes him a good fit as a solid _ not spectacular _ MLB.
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tom: is la'roi glover still on the team? who/what do we have at defensive tackle? It seemed a weak link to me the last few seasons
Jim Thomas: Glvoer is an unrestricted free agent. The Rams have no interest in re-signing him; I don't think he's drawn any interest from other clubs; he told me late in the '08 season that he'd retire if he didn't return to the Rams.
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B-Ball Fan: Glad Goldberg is back in the fold. Does this mean we will draft the best player available @ # 2 now for sure ?
Jim Thomas: I don't think the signing of Goldberg has anything to do with taking a tackle at No. 2 overall. Although a handy player to have on the roster, Goldberg is a backup and spot starter. Not a full-time starter.
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Terrapin03: Jim -
Is it just small market paranoia, or does the NFL seem to cater to Robert Kraft and the Patriots moreso than any other team in the league? Exhibit A: the new rule regarding defensive players lunging at a QB's legs. Do other teams and/or fan bases share this feeling of inequity?
Thanks for your time!
Jim Thomas: Pardon my provinciality, but the league does seem to like Mr. Kraft.
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Joey: Hey Mr. Thomas. Thanks for your time.
1)Are the Rams set to start Avery and Burton and/or a rookie WR. As there are no starter free agents and Devaney has a no tolerance (so no Matt Jones) policy are there any oars in the water via trade. I can't believe Chad Lucas is the solution?
2)A quiet signing of Safety Craig Dahl who has made and been slightly productive under our new head coach. Were the Rams keeping an eye on him or is he just a camp body?
Keep the information coming and thanks again.
Jim Thomas: 1.) I've got to think there's another wide receiver or two on the way from somewhere. (Although it could be a rookie draft pick.)
2.) The Rams need a fourth safety behind starters Atogwe and Butler, and backup Todd Johnson. That's could be where Dahl fits in.
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Colton: Hey Jim, How big of a need do you see Nose Tackle as? I think we REALLY need a big, run stuffing, blocker eating, Nose Tackle. It will help keep blockers off of our MLB(hopefully Curry) alot and improve our run defense greatly.
Also do you see a chance at Shaun Rogers? I would love to get him or Ron Brace in the 2nd. After all we were 29th in the league in rushing yards against us per game.
Thanks,
Colton
Jim Thomas: Agreed. Agreed. Agreed.
Don't know about Rogers, and how much he would cost.
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Dale P: Jim,
If you were running the show for the Rams on draft day and you are aware the Rams need help at OT , MLB and WR , and you wanted to get the player who would provide the most impact , who would you draft first and why. Thanks.
I love you your comments and always read them .
Jim Thomas: Putting me on the spot. How about Adam Curry in Round 1; William Beatty in Round 2; and I don't know at WR in Round 3?
Or Eugene Monroe in Round 1; Connor Barwin in Round 2; and I don't know at WR in Round 3.
Or Eugene Monroe in Round 1; Hakeem Nicke in Round 2; and I don't know at LB in Round 3.
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Drew: JT
If we go Curry with the 2nd pick overall in round 1, does your gut say WR or OT in round 2?
Jim Thomas: OT
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cbc1b: What wide bodies can we hope for to be brought in on a free agent basis to be put in the rotation for defensive tackle, when do they cut ties with Wroten and how much will that save on the salary cap?
Jim Thomas: I believe the Rams can cut ties with Wroten as soon as his suspension ends. I think he can be reinstated sometime in May but I'm not 100 percent sure on that. He counts $726,000 against the cap.
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dominic: Hey Jim:
1)What are your sources telling you about B.J.Raji?
2)Am I wrong,but the impressions Im getting is we can see dt and ot as our first two draft choices.Would B.J. be a reach as the first round pick over Jason Smith?And who do you prefer?
3)Will you follow Bernie to 101 for our beloved Rams updates?Or the answer is....to be continued???
Jim Thomas: 1.) I haven't heard much with regard to the Rams and Raji. And as of right now, I don't think he's scheduled for one of those "Top 30" predraft visits to Rams Park.
2.) We'll see on the DT; I think the Rams could just as easily go with someboyd like Tyson Jackson in Round 2, who is a DE who is big enough to play DT.
3.) Funny you should mention; just this morning I signed with 101 FM.
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Steve Roberts: Jim, Tank Johnson isn't the cleanest character nor exactly a pillar like Spags wants but do you think the Rams might consider signing him as a NT within a rotation? He was found innocent of his last arrest in Chicago back in '07 and he's been doing a lot of community service in Florida. He's still only 27 years old so he fits the rest of their signings.
The Rams need a NT and there just aren't many semi-young AND talented unrestricted free agents available. Dewayne Robertson and Kenderick Allen are all I can find remaining to fit the bill after Johnson.
Jim Thomas: I'd kind of doubt it on Tank; Robertson could be intriguing.
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Tim: Do you think Aaron Curry will be better than Ray Lewis at his Prime?
Jim Thomas: Geez, that would be saying a lot. Lewis is one of the best MLBs in league history.
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Tim: What do you think about Rashad Jennings? I like this guy alot and think the Rams should take him in the 3rd. Spags is trying to establish a power running team and adding him gives them 2 solid power runners and a solid blocking fullback to open up holes.
Jim Thomas: You know, I just don't have a good read or feel for what the Rams are doing for backup running back.
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Steve B.: Jim:
If Chris Draft is the new MLB, asssuming the Rams do not acquire a starting LB in the draft, who do you think play the other OLB position with Spoon? Pisa is pretty small for a SAM LB, but Culbertson was a dissapointment there last year. I'm sure they will draft a LB, but if they don't take Curry it isn't clear that guy will start.
Jim Thomas: Obviously there are a lot of variables. But Connor Barwin could be an option in Round 2.
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LA Rams fan: Hey Jim,
Thanks in advance for the chat. Any chance the Rams will deal for Boldin?
What meaningful free agents are available on the defensive side that we might be able to stock up on?
Keep on kicking ###, Jim!
Jim Thomas: I don't know, but why wouldn't the Rams at least kick the tires with Boldin and Braylon Edwards?
As I mentioned earlier, Dewayne Roberston is still out there as DT; LB Morlon Greenwood I think is still available and could be an option. But at this stage, guys like that could be post-draft pickups.
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Jim Thomas: Cadet Thomas didn't come home for spring break, he went with some cadets to Matzlazan (Sp?) Mexico. He lost his cell phone (in a New York cab) on the way back to campus. (Since I once lost my wallet in a strip club as a college freshman, I wasn't too distressed.)
As for the Rams, I do think they're off to a good start. The moves to date look good on paper. We'll see what happens once the game start. But for now, there seems to be good chemistry between Spags, Devaney, and Demoff. There seems to be a game plan. And I too think Chip deserves some credit. (I'm working on a Q&A with him for Sunday's paper, by the way, based off an interview at the owners meetings.) Chip has had to make a lot of tough decisions in his first year on the job. And I think all of them have been made with a sincere interest to improve the product and try to get this franchise back on solid footing. Believe me, it wasn't easy for him to fire a coach in mid season, _ early season, actually _ not retain Haslett, and clean out the front office (particularly Zygmunt, who he has known for a long time), as well as agree to the release of mainstays such as Pace and Holt.
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Mike Gregory: If Aaron Curry is the highest rated player in the draft, to me it's a no-brainer, you must take him because we do need linebackers. Also, there appears to be more depth at offensive tackle than at inside linebacker. Several tackles will still be available at pick #35 whereas inside linebackers such as Maualuga and Laurinitis will probably be gone. Something else to ponder, what if Ziggy Hood is sitting there at #35? Wouldn't that help our defensive tackle rotation? One more question, I understand that the Jones Dome is undergoing renovations so the draft party cannot be held there, but what about Rams Park for the draft party? I would think after the last two seasons, the Rams need to establish some rapport with their most loyal fans, wouldn't you think? Thanks, Mike.
Jim Thomas: True, the dome won't be available due to the reservations. The indoor facility, I'm told, is being considered for the draft part. But that's still to be determined.
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NYRAMFAN26: Jim -
Obvious need is WR and there is a certain veteran available with ties to the Rams. What are the realistic chances the Rams will even speak with Bruce and what are the chances he would come back? Think about the possibilities of fixing a major wrong. We could sign him for one year with incentive filled contract. Fans get one last year to thank him for everything he has done and the new organization gets to show it actually cares for people who have bled gold and blue for this team. He would be an excellent mentor not just to the WR's but to the whole team and he could retire a RAM. Finally -- he moves into coaching (ala Henry Ellard) and stays with the organization for years to come. Can you write a better conclusion to the Isaac Bruce legend! Start the noise now and get Devaney to work something out.
Jim Thomas: I like what you're saying, and if you put the truth serum into the front office, I think they'd tell you that Bruce has more left at this stage than Torry (their opinion). But they seem to be divesting themselves of those Greatest Show on Turf Rams, so I'd say unlikely. But if Bruce gets cut, it's certainly worth checking out.
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Armen Dacity: Any word on who the top prospects (Monroe, J.Smith, Curry, Raji, Crabtree) have selected as agents? Do you think that matters? Are their agents (ahem... Postons... ahem...) who could tip the scales against a player (all other things being relatively equal)?
Jim Thomas: Monroe has an obscure agent, Sanat "Sunny" Shah, a U.Va. graduate, who has very few clients; Jason Smith has Ben Dogra of the St. Louis-based mega agency CAA (Condon, Steiner, etc.); Curry has Andy Ross of Octagon (another major agency that represents lots of NFLers); Crabtree has Eugene Parker (Parker's very good and gets a lot of top-flight guys, but he does occasionally have holdouts _ see Steven Jackson); I'm not sure on Raji (but I think it might be Condon.)
With that, I have to go. I'm sorry I didn't get to as many questions today _ I got sidetracked a few times during the session and had some computer issues as well. But I'll be back at the usual Tuesday time next week 1 p.m. and will talk to you then.
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Bob Magaw
Footballguy
what kind of talent can the rams expect at the #35 overall pick (that will best align BPA/team need)?
checking off prospects systematically that could be gone by that pick already, by position...
not in parentheses means likely gone by #35...
in parentheses means possibly gone by #35...
QB - stafford, sanchez & freeman
RB - moreno, wells (donald brown, mccoy?)
WR - crabtree, maclin, DHB, harvin (nicks, britt, robiskie?)
TE - pettigrew (ingram, casey?)
OT - j. smith, monroe, a. smith, oher, britton, beatty (loadholt?)
OG/C - mack (unger?)
DE - brown, orakpo, maybin, jackson, ayers, johnson (english?)
DT - raji, perry (hood?)
OLB - curry, cushing (matthews, barwin?)
M/ILB - malauga (lauranaitis?)
CB - jenkins, davis (butler, smith?)
S - none (delmas, chung?)
not counting players in parentheses...
yields 30 prospects...
which would leave all but four of the players in parentheses (out of 18)... i don't think the rams would look at RB (they do actually have a pretty big need to find a competent backup for jackson, but don't think they could afford to take one here, with so many other, greater needs) or TE on offense, & probably not OL if they get LT at 1.02...
on defense, i wouldn't expect a safety, but every other position could be in play...
LB big need (both MLB & SLB), but also DL (both DE & DT)...
CB arguably slightly lower probability, but if the value is there, STL could get a better player than hill & future bookend to start opposite bartell...
checking off prospects systematically that could be gone by that pick already, by position...
not in parentheses means likely gone by #35...
in parentheses means possibly gone by #35...
QB - stafford, sanchez & freeman
RB - moreno, wells (donald brown, mccoy?)
WR - crabtree, maclin, DHB, harvin (nicks, britt, robiskie?)
TE - pettigrew (ingram, casey?)
OT - j. smith, monroe, a. smith, oher, britton, beatty (loadholt?)
OG/C - mack (unger?)
DE - brown, orakpo, maybin, jackson, ayers, johnson (english?)
DT - raji, perry (hood?)
OLB - curry, cushing (matthews, barwin?)
M/ILB - malauga (lauranaitis?)
CB - jenkins, davis (butler, smith?)
S - none (delmas, chung?)
not counting players in parentheses...
yields 30 prospects...
which would leave all but four of the players in parentheses (out of 18)... i don't think the rams would look at RB (they do actually have a pretty big need to find a competent backup for jackson, but don't think they could afford to take one here, with so many other, greater needs) or TE on offense, & probably not OL if they get LT at 1.02...
on defense, i wouldn't expect a safety, but every other position could be in play...
LB big need (both MLB & SLB), but also DL (both DE & DT)...
CB arguably slightly lower probability, but if the value is there, STL could get a better player than hill & future bookend to start opposite bartell...
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TheWick
Footballguy
Excellent post, seems to me that if the first pick is LT then the 2nd rounder will be a Defender probably a LB and if they go Curry in the 1st they are betting one of the LTs slip to them like Britton or Beatty.less than a month away...I can't wait.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
jim thomas is my go to rams source, & the one i find most authoritative...
trade down a possibility, but unlikely (especially if WAS unwilling to part with 2010 1st)... ditto for last second bulger trade & drafting sanchez... they may well be smitten by him (like quite a few teams with a need), but the cap ramifications of a separation with bulger are reportedly daunting...
i like JTs positional shopping list if we trade down in 2nd &/or 3rd, & advocate that strategy (rams have as many holes on the roster as you would expect for a team picking second overall)... if a player they may be targeting with 2.3 falls, such DHB, nicks or lauranaitis (?), though, they should probably snatch them up... STL does need bodies & more depth (multiple starters, for that matter
), almost across the roster... but they also need more special players & difference makers (if any prospect in WR/LB trio immediately above is that... imo, nicks looks like one, not sure about other two... lauranaitis would fill a massive need, as would DHB/nicks)... in a round two trade down scenario, robiskie would be more likely to fall there than all the way to the 3rd, & would seem to be a great fit several ways (big WR complement to avery, very pro ready, high football IQ as pro coach's son, exemplary character, maturity, professionalism & work ethic, etc.)...
http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/st...6A?OpenDocument
Tackle need looks too big to ignore
By Jim Thomas
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
04/25/2009
Through the weeks of pre-draft buildup. ... From the college all-star games to the NFL scouting combine. ... From the campus pro days to last week's pre-draft visits. ... Through all that evaluation, the Rams are smack dab back where they where at the end of December.
Namely, realizing that they have a crater-sized hole on the depth chart at offensive tackle.
Early this week, the Rams narrowed their possible first-round picks to four players: quarterback Mark Sanchez of Southern California; linebacker Aaron Curry of Wake Forest; offensive tackle Eugene Monroe of Virginia; and offensive tackle Jason Smith of Baylor.
Michael Crabtree, the wide receiver from Texas Tech, basically eliminated himself from consideration with what Rams Park sources said was a diva attitude during his pre-draft trip here. Apparently, his rock star mentality was a big turnoff to coaches and front office personnel. Couple that with his foot injury, and the feeling in Earth City was that he wasn't worth the trouble.
As for Sanchez, what first looked like pure smokescreen seemed to turn into downright infatuation. To some at Rams Park, Sanchez possesses the leadership qualities — the "it" factor — that may be lacking in Marc Bulger.
But at the end of the day, the Rams appear committed to Bulger for at least one more season. The rumor of the day Friday was that the New York Jets called inquiring about a possible trade for Bulger, a rumor that one team official did not deny. But another high-ranking team official told the Post-Dispatch: "We have our quarterback." (An obvious reference to Bulger.)
As the hours went by Friday, it looked like no trade-down would materialize involving the Rams at No. 2 overall and teams wanting to trade up for Sanchez. For those interested in Sanchez — and count Washington, Denver, and the Jets in that group — the first team they needed to get ahead of to take him is Seattle at No. 4 overall. Not Kansas City — with Matt Cassell in tow — at No. 3 overall.
So as the week wound down, all indications were that the Rams were homing in on the offensive tackle position. Namely Monroe or Jason Smith. Alabama's Andre Smith long ago had been eliminated, viewed as too risky a pick at No. 2 as far back as the scouting combine.
Monroe is viewed as more of the classic pass blocker. Athletic, quick feet, a great slide step to get out on edge rushers. But some scouts and coaches around the league don't like the fact that he doesn't always finish plays. One longtime line coach even went as far as to say that Monroe plays "a little soft."
As for Jason Smith, his more aggressive, tough attitude fits the mold that coach Steve Spagnuolo is trying to establish at Rams Park. He's regarded as more of a finisher than Monroe and is stronger.
One league source told the Post-Dispatch that Monroe seemed to be the choice of the scouting department at Rams Park but that Jason Smith was the tackle of choice among the coaching staff. That's a generalization, because at least one member of the offensive staff prefers Monroe.
In either event, it's kind of a coin flip. There are no signs of a raging Monroe vs. J. Smith debate at Rams Park. Far from. Those in the Smith camp would be happy with Monroe. And those in the Monroe camp would be satisfied with Smith.
Even so, Spagnuolo and general manager Billy Devaney were taking no chances. Due diligence for Spagnuolo this week included looking at even more tape of Smith and talking to defensive end Chris Long about Monroe.
Owner Chip Rosenbloom arrived in St. Louis on Thursday night and after an informal barbecue lunch with team employees at Rams Park, met with Spagnuolo and Devaney to get up to speed on the draft.
In terms of player personnel, Rosenbloom has handed the car keys to Devaney. In a seismic change from the way business has been done for years with the franchise, the Rams no longer are deferring to the head coach on draft day. The final call belongs to Devaney — and Devaney only — with input and advice, of course, from Spagnuolo and the coaching staff.
Truth be told, the Rams need about twice as many high picks as they have in this year's draft to attempt to address all their needs. The roster is as thin as it's ever been (since the move to St. Louis in 1995) at offensive tackle and wide receiver. In an ideal world, value would meet need at both positions in Round 1 and Round 2.
The Rams would love for either Darrius Heyward-Bey or Hakeem Nicks to fall to the team at wide receiver in the second round, where the Rams pick No. 35 overall (and third in the round).
In his phone calls around the league, Devaney has let it be known that he's willing to trade down in the second round. Ditto for the third round, which begins Day 2 of the draft: normally, that's prime trade-down territory because teams have had time to re-stack and reassess their boards overnight.
Although lacking in star quality, this draft is thought to have plenty of talent in rounds 2 and 3 compared to recent years. If the Rams can pick up an extra pick or two there by trading down, it could help fill needs at middle linebacker, defensive tackle, running back and cornerback.
trade down a possibility, but unlikely (especially if WAS unwilling to part with 2010 1st)... ditto for last second bulger trade & drafting sanchez... they may well be smitten by him (like quite a few teams with a need), but the cap ramifications of a separation with bulger are reportedly daunting...
i like JTs positional shopping list if we trade down in 2nd &/or 3rd, & advocate that strategy (rams have as many holes on the roster as you would expect for a team picking second overall)... if a player they may be targeting with 2.3 falls, such DHB, nicks or lauranaitis (?), though, they should probably snatch them up... STL does need bodies & more depth (multiple starters, for that matter
), almost across the roster... but they also need more special players & difference makers (if any prospect in WR/LB trio immediately above is that... imo, nicks looks like one, not sure about other two... lauranaitis would fill a massive need, as would DHB/nicks)... in a round two trade down scenario, robiskie would be more likely to fall there than all the way to the 3rd, & would seem to be a great fit several ways (big WR complement to avery, very pro ready, high football IQ as pro coach's son, exemplary character, maturity, professionalism & work ethic, etc.)...http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/st...6A?OpenDocument
Tackle need looks too big to ignore
By Jim Thomas
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
04/25/2009
Through the weeks of pre-draft buildup. ... From the college all-star games to the NFL scouting combine. ... From the campus pro days to last week's pre-draft visits. ... Through all that evaluation, the Rams are smack dab back where they where at the end of December.
Namely, realizing that they have a crater-sized hole on the depth chart at offensive tackle.
Early this week, the Rams narrowed their possible first-round picks to four players: quarterback Mark Sanchez of Southern California; linebacker Aaron Curry of Wake Forest; offensive tackle Eugene Monroe of Virginia; and offensive tackle Jason Smith of Baylor.
Michael Crabtree, the wide receiver from Texas Tech, basically eliminated himself from consideration with what Rams Park sources said was a diva attitude during his pre-draft trip here. Apparently, his rock star mentality was a big turnoff to coaches and front office personnel. Couple that with his foot injury, and the feeling in Earth City was that he wasn't worth the trouble.
As for Sanchez, what first looked like pure smokescreen seemed to turn into downright infatuation. To some at Rams Park, Sanchez possesses the leadership qualities — the "it" factor — that may be lacking in Marc Bulger.
But at the end of the day, the Rams appear committed to Bulger for at least one more season. The rumor of the day Friday was that the New York Jets called inquiring about a possible trade for Bulger, a rumor that one team official did not deny. But another high-ranking team official told the Post-Dispatch: "We have our quarterback." (An obvious reference to Bulger.)
As the hours went by Friday, it looked like no trade-down would materialize involving the Rams at No. 2 overall and teams wanting to trade up for Sanchez. For those interested in Sanchez — and count Washington, Denver, and the Jets in that group — the first team they needed to get ahead of to take him is Seattle at No. 4 overall. Not Kansas City — with Matt Cassell in tow — at No. 3 overall.
So as the week wound down, all indications were that the Rams were homing in on the offensive tackle position. Namely Monroe or Jason Smith. Alabama's Andre Smith long ago had been eliminated, viewed as too risky a pick at No. 2 as far back as the scouting combine.
Monroe is viewed as more of the classic pass blocker. Athletic, quick feet, a great slide step to get out on edge rushers. But some scouts and coaches around the league don't like the fact that he doesn't always finish plays. One longtime line coach even went as far as to say that Monroe plays "a little soft."
As for Jason Smith, his more aggressive, tough attitude fits the mold that coach Steve Spagnuolo is trying to establish at Rams Park. He's regarded as more of a finisher than Monroe and is stronger.
One league source told the Post-Dispatch that Monroe seemed to be the choice of the scouting department at Rams Park but that Jason Smith was the tackle of choice among the coaching staff. That's a generalization, because at least one member of the offensive staff prefers Monroe.
In either event, it's kind of a coin flip. There are no signs of a raging Monroe vs. J. Smith debate at Rams Park. Far from. Those in the Smith camp would be happy with Monroe. And those in the Monroe camp would be satisfied with Smith.
Even so, Spagnuolo and general manager Billy Devaney were taking no chances. Due diligence for Spagnuolo this week included looking at even more tape of Smith and talking to defensive end Chris Long about Monroe.
Owner Chip Rosenbloom arrived in St. Louis on Thursday night and after an informal barbecue lunch with team employees at Rams Park, met with Spagnuolo and Devaney to get up to speed on the draft.
In terms of player personnel, Rosenbloom has handed the car keys to Devaney. In a seismic change from the way business has been done for years with the franchise, the Rams no longer are deferring to the head coach on draft day. The final call belongs to Devaney — and Devaney only — with input and advice, of course, from Spagnuolo and the coaching staff.
Truth be told, the Rams need about twice as many high picks as they have in this year's draft to attempt to address all their needs. The roster is as thin as it's ever been (since the move to St. Louis in 1995) at offensive tackle and wide receiver. In an ideal world, value would meet need at both positions in Round 1 and Round 2.
The Rams would love for either Darrius Heyward-Bey or Hakeem Nicks to fall to the team at wide receiver in the second round, where the Rams pick No. 35 overall (and third in the round).
In his phone calls around the league, Devaney has let it be known that he's willing to trade down in the second round. Ditto for the third round, which begins Day 2 of the draft: normally, that's prime trade-down territory because teams have had time to re-stack and reassess their boards overnight.
Although lacking in star quality, this draft is thought to have plenty of talent in rounds 2 and 3 compared to recent years. If the Rams can pick up an extra pick or two there by trading down, it could help fill needs at middle linebacker, defensive tackle, running back and cornerback.
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lyon812
Footballguy
Well, I'm pretty gd happy with the draft so far. Think we go WR in the 3rd? I've cooled on Iglesias a bit, but there's plenty of worthwhile talents that'll be available. It depends how much the Rams *really* like Laurent Robinson, I'm thinking.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
if nicks had been avail at 2.3 would have been tough call...
still, rams & rams fans have to be thrilled lauranaitis was there at 2nd (& they didn't have to move up)...
could have had malauga (interesting)... lauranaitis viewed as safer, smarter, more disciplined & in control prospect, as well as higher character pick? good fit to play it safe with the rams in the EARLY stages of total rebuild (tore up from floor up
)...
WR definitely could be on day two wish list...
also CB or DL?
very happy with jason smith & lauranaitis... outstanding start to the rams draft... lucky top MLB/ILBs dropped...
* guesses on 3.2?
possible trade down (coveted spot)...
don't think it is as pressing a need, but shon greene (sp?) has dropped, would be good fit for competent jax backup as well as potentially good value in 3rd?
still, rams & rams fans have to be thrilled lauranaitis was there at 2nd (& they didn't have to move up)...
could have had malauga (interesting)... lauranaitis viewed as safer, smarter, more disciplined & in control prospect, as well as higher character pick? good fit to play it safe with the rams in the EARLY stages of total rebuild (tore up from floor up
)...WR definitely could be on day two wish list...
also CB or DL?
very happy with jason smith & lauranaitis... outstanding start to the rams draft... lucky top MLB/ILBs dropped...
* guesses on 3.2?
possible trade down (coveted spot)...
don't think it is as pressing a need, but shon greene (sp?) has dropped, would be good fit for competent jax backup as well as potentially good value in 3rd?
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Lott's Fingertip
Footballguy
I am pleased. I just had a bad feeling that they were going to do something foolish at pick 2... so glad they picked Smith.
Bob Magaw
Footballguy
some on rams boards thought 3.02 bradley fletcher was a reach...
the scouting profile at draft countdown was encouraging, especially using godfrey as a comp player...
http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingrepo...ey-Fletcher.php
if you scan down, link to video scouting report from draftguys.com (our bloom & cecil)... looks like he has outstanding size for a CB, natural coverage ability & ball skills... a poster at another board said he looked great against penn. st., & is a very physical player with a hardnosed attitude & temperment in run support...
if he is as good as a he looks, & given that hill has been a disappointment, can't stay healthy, wade & king are still speculative (with better speed than size) & none of them are devany/spag's "guys", it wouldn't surprise me if fletcher emerges as a starter in a year or two...
spags came from philly, when they never had too many CBs (drafting sheppard & brown when they already had vincent & taylor)... it is becoming a passing league... specifically, ARI the team to beat in NFC West with devastating passing attack with warner, fitz & boldin... SEA just added housh, & SF crabtree, who could be a future pro bowler...
the scouting profile at draft countdown was encouraging, especially using godfrey as a comp player...
http://www.draftcountdown.com/scoutingrepo...ey-Fletcher.php
if you scan down, link to video scouting report from draftguys.com (our bloom & cecil)... looks like he has outstanding size for a CB, natural coverage ability & ball skills... a poster at another board said he looked great against penn. st., & is a very physical player with a hardnosed attitude & temperment in run support...
if he is as good as a he looks, & given that hill has been a disappointment, can't stay healthy, wade & king are still speculative (with better speed than size) & none of them are devany/spag's "guys", it wouldn't surprise me if fletcher emerges as a starter in a year or two...
spags came from philly, when they never had too many CBs (drafting sheppard & brown when they already had vincent & taylor)... it is becoming a passing league... specifically, ARI the team to beat in NFC West with devastating passing attack with warner, fitz & boldin... SEA just added housh, & SF crabtree, who could be a future pro bowler...
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lyon812
Footballguy
Lott's Fingertip
Footballguy
I like Bulger, I think he is a good, solid QB. He does everything adequately, and a few things excellently. Like many players in great situations, though, his tremendous success was a product in no small part to his surrounding cast and mad Mike Martz' passer-friendly system. Kind of a right place at the right time kind of thing.By the same token, Bulger's failures the last two seasons are 90% due to the shortcomings of those around him. Certainly a wrong place at the wrong time kind of thing.
Put the man behind a good line and he will help his receivers out, even if they are average. Put him behind a decimated sieve of a line and he will look like most QBs would look in the same situation: bad.
lyon812
Footballguy
Well, Martz might have helped, but let's not forget that in 2006, under Scott Linehan, Bulger passed for 4,301 yards. =) I'll be happy if Bulger gets back to 75% of what he used to be. I really think with an improved line, he has a chance to surprise people.
