Bob Magaw
Footballguy
i'll start off the thread with a recent jim thomas chat... he has been the beat writer covering rams for sporting news ever since i can remember, & is my favorite rams observer (with howard balzer second)... it presents a nice summation of where the rams are at in free agency, what their priorities might be in the draft, & prospective trades...
highlights...
he would have liked to see the team a bit more active, but alludes to how STL is not a dream destination for free agents, coming off a 3-13 season & HC on one of the white hottest hot seats in the league this upcoming season (possibly being perceived as a team in decline/disarray)... likes the josh brown & jacob bell signings... brown signed richest contract for a kicker in NFL history, and bell should be an upgrade over stetterstrom at LG...
thomas thinks they may be looking closest at the longs (chris & jake), would be amenable to dropping down to about #6, adding picks & getting gholston or ellis, but it is questionable whether one of few teams between 3-6 would want to move up...
some fans in chat were disappointed in lack of activity early on, but he reminded them that they have contract extensions looming for steven jackson & O.J. atogwe...
there may be a trade coming, that could bring a starter, but it isn't a blockbuster...
bruce was let go because the organization thought his skills had diminished to the point he wasn't worth what he was asking (though thomas disagreed)...
there is concern in rams land whether bennett is up to being the WR2, but they will find out...
supposedly team doesn't think LB is a pressing need (other than MLB witherspoon who is more than competent, WLB tinoisamoa is constantly hurt & SLB chillar not expected back)... thomas thinks that if the team secures veteran WR help in free agency (they may have had interest in berrian & walker, & may still in hackett?), they may look at CB position in round two... conversely, if they get vet CB help in free agency, the second round pick could be earmarked for a WR...
Jim Thomas Chat
T.C.: Hi Jim. Two-part question here: With the combine over, what is the scuttlebutt in the organization regarding that second overall pick? I would think the Longs (Chris and Jake) hold an edge over everyone, including Glenn Dorsey. Also, do the Rams have any interest in Justin Smith, a solid (but not spectacular) DE?
Jim Thomas: According to Justin Smith's agent, Jim Steiner, the Rams showed no interest. And as you know by now, Smith is now a 49er.
Before the injury questions came out, I got the sense that the Rams felt Dorsey was the top player in the draft. McFadden's workout wowed them _ as I'm sure it did other clubs _ but they've got Jackson. I think they regard Jake Long as a safe pick. And the more they look at tape of Chris Long, I think he's growing on them. I know that doesn't clear things up much, but I think that's where they're at right now.
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JC: Hello again, Jim.
Now that Brown is our new kicker, will Justin Medlock be waived? Or will he stay through camp as insurance?
Jim Thomas: I'm sure Medlock, who was a fifth-rounder last year I believe, will stick through camp.
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Bill: Hey Jim, the signing of Drew Bennett continues to haunt the Rams, as now they have to let Isaac go, and there's virtually nothing left in free agency. Where do you see the Rams going with this? Are the wide receivers in this year's draft deep? Any feel for what they might do? thanks
Jim Thomas: The options are dwindling almost by the hour in free agency. We're talking Bryant Johnson, D.J. Hackett and Javon Walker. I guess there could always be a trade. (Roy Williams? Chad Johnson?)
I think there's pretty good depth at WR in the draft, although I've yet to study that position very closely. But there's certainly not a top 5 type in the draft pool. Here's what I see right now, realizing this is a moving target. If the Rams come up with veteran help at WR before the draft, they strongly consider taking a CB in the second round. (No. 33 overall) If they come up with veteran help at CB before the draft, they strongly consider talking a WR in the second round.
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Jarod: I think we're all a little worried about Bennett as our second receiver. Do you know if the Rams have any interest in Bryant Johnson or DJ Hackett? Also, this big trade you speak of, when is this supposed to go down?
Jim Thomas: I think we all should be worried about Bennett as the No. 2, based on what we saw last year. I have no read on Bryant Johnson from the Rams (I personally think he drops a lot of passes). I think the Rams do have some interest in Hackett _ he has some speed and big play ability _ but are concerned about his injury history.
As for this "Big Trade" I never said there was a "Big Trade" in the works. I think that's a creation of sports talk radio. I said I was aware of a possible trade _ but was not at liberty _ to give more specifics. It would bring a starting player to the Rams, but certainly wouldn't be categorized as a blockbuster.
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Joe DiFazio: Jim, any thought to drafting Jake Long and possibly trading Alex Barron?
Jim Thomas: Haven't heard that, but it doesn't mean it won't happen. There's also the possibility that the Rams draft Jake Long, keep Barron, have Long play a year or two at right guard, and then slide Incognito back to center.
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high ridge bob: What do you realistically think the Rams could get for the number 2 pick in the draft? A #1 and a #3? Do you think they should trade down to get more picks???? Thanx for the sounding board...
Jim Thomas: It depends on where that No. 1 is. If the Rams trade down, I don't think they'd like to go any lower than No. 6 or No. 7. Right now, that looks like it would be a good scenario for the Rams seeing as they're not getting much out of free agency. Me personally, I think they'd love for someone seeking McFadden to trade up to No. 2. (Oakland?)
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The Chief: Hey Jim. Glad you're back. Is there any reason why Brown was signed versus going after the guy who kicked during pre-season? Wouldn't that have been cheaper? Also, are we going to get a speed receiver for the new OC?
Jim Thomas: Brown is a proven kicker; the camp kicker "Sparky" Lovell, isn't.
I sure hope they get a speed receiver. They need one in the worst way. But I don't know where.
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Tom: Hi Jim,
The thought of Bruce in a SF uniform is making me sick to my stomach. Was it all about the money, or is he looking to be a starter? If it was the money, he's earned the right for the Rams to pay him whatever someone else offers, and then some. Why didn't we give him that? I view letting Bruce leave as a sign that management is out of touch with the fans.
Jim Thomas: I think enough people on the second floor at Rams Park (front office, coaching staff) thought Bruce's skills had deteriorated to the point where he wasn't worth the money. I don't agree with that, but that's what happened.
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george_allen: what's your forecast regarding the center position -
will incognito or stetterstrom move over, will fry make it as a back-up,will romberg be back, will they pick up free agent to be the starter ?
Jim Thomas: This one's totally up for grabs. KC free agent Casey Wiegmann remains a possibility but he's 35. I don't think the Rams like Baltimore's Flynn, a recent cap casualty. And there's always the possibility of a trade.
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Joe: Jim,
Any news on contract talks with Atogwe, Chillar, or Jackson. I don't think our inactivity in FA is as big a deal as many due to that lack of talent...outside of Faneca I wouldn't throw money at anyone out there. What worries me is not taking care of our own guys. IMO, there should be a 3 year offer on the table for Chillar, and 5-7 year deal for Jackson and a 3-5 year deal for Atogwe. I hope there is.
Something else that bothered me was how long it took for us to cut our players. Why did we wait till the start of FA to cut players and create CAP???
And please tell me that the Rams are NOT thinking of drafting Dorsey and his bad back, knees, leg, and ankle!
Jim Thomas: The timing of the cap cuts is of little consequence. The Rams knew what the money would be if they made the cuts. Bruce was a tough decision. The Rams were shopping Hall, hoping to get something in a trade, when that didn't materialze they cut him.
Once Atogwe was tendered as a restricted free agent, I think _ I think _ his contract talks are back burner for a while. I think Jackson's renegotiation comes next. Chillar was supposed to conclude a visit to Arizona on Tuesday and head to Green bay. I don't think he's coming back.
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Reggie: What are the Rams trying to do to better the team. I hear and read about the cuts to free up salary cap money, but we have only signed a kicker. A good kicker I might add. But where are we headed. there a lot of holes to file on the defensive and offensive line as well as at receiver. Is there a major trade on the horizon?
Jim Thomas: I'm not aware of any major trade on the horizon, but we'll see what happens down the road.
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Chris: Jim:
I've been hearing that Trent Green is the likely backup candidate for the Rams in 2008. I've also been hearing (suprise to me) that Randy Moss is trying to find a home for himself and Daunte Culpepper. Would Culpepper be an upgrade at backup over Trent Green, and with the addition of Moss to the receiver corps, would that not give Bulger or Culpepper a better option downfield (assuming either of them has the time to throw - depending on what happens with the O-line)?
Jim Thomas: Linehan doesn't feel that Culpepper would be viable as a backup, because he wouldn't get many practice reps and is the type of player that needs practice reps to stay sharp unlike some veteran backups.
Obviously, Moss is off the board. I don't think Moss was ever going to do anything but re-sign with New England.
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BC: I understand that you shouldn't just jump to spend money in the early stages of free agency, however, with Issac Bruce going to the 49ers and all of the needs on defense why did we not put our name in the hat for the likes of a Lance Briggs, Asante Samuels, etc. and offensively, Bernard Berrian, Randy Moss (no I'm not smoking crack) or Donte Stallworth? Is Josh Brown the answer?
I thought the front office shakeup meant that we were going to do things differently!!!!!!
Jim Thomas: There's no way Moss was leaving New England. There's some off the field issues with Stallworth. The Rams tried to get involved with Berrian. I would've loved to have seen them sign him. Don't know if Samuel was ever in play.
I like the Brown and Bell signings, but I would've liked to have seen one more big FA signing.
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Jerry Mullner: Not a question for your show, but for you...did you go to Ohio State?
Jim Thomas: Two years at George Washington U. (in D.C.) then finished up at UMSL.
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MItch from San Diego: Hi again,
Thanks again for listening to us. If the Rams need improved play and depth at corner, a stout front four would work wonders for the group of DB's in place. I say take Chris Long, DE (VA) in round one and Lawrence Jackson, DE (USC) in round two. These guys are not the second coming of Reggie White but are relentless every down players of high character that will play at a high level for years. The Rams can fortify the DT spots in the middle and late rounds.
As for the o-line, forget FA's. If we are going to have a youth movement, let's get on with it. Why not draft guys like Mike McGlynn or John Greco in the mid rounds and just plug them in. Either or both of these guys have upside. If we have good coaches and teachers, they should do at least as well as an undersized FA such as Jacob Bell. He ends up on the ground a lot, I hear. The Titans offense was awful last year and it started with their o-line. Why would we want one of their players?
Wide receiver needs? We let Isaac Bruce walk so it can't be that bad. So why not let Dane Looker have a shot. He is better than Drew "wrongway" Bennett, he is faster than given credit for and has delivered every time he was called upon. Save the money and draft picks and just give him a chance. Just look at what Mike Furrey did in Detroit when he got a chance. Why not??
Just my view.
Jim Thomas: I'm all for beefing up the defensive front. Even with Leonard Little getting restructuring, I think the Rams need an every-down end (such as Chris Long), and an edge rusher to man their Buck end position.
As for Bell, he's only 27 so that's a youth movement right there. And he does NOT spend much time on the ground.
At wide receiver, scary as it sounds, Drew Bennett is the starter now that Bruce is gone. When you sign a $30 million contract, you get more than one chance. Supposedly he has been bluntly told at Rams Park that his "redshirt" year is over and it's time to produce.
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Brian: Hi Jim, I have a few questions about the offensive line.
1.) Can you tell me the status of Mark Setterstrom? How is he progressing from his knee injury last year?
2.) Who fits better at Center...Incognito, Setterstrom or Romberg?
3.) Why wouldn't the Rams sign both free agents Bell and Scott, since Romberg is probably a fringe type player and Incognito and Setterstrom could probably play the center position and provide good depth on the OL. I would estimate that Bell and Scott could be had for around the dollars that Smiley received from the Dolphins or even a little less at around $5 million per season per player.
Thanks for your time.
Jim Thomas: Setterstrom is progressing very well. He asked for a football during a recent stop at Rams Park, so he could work on his snapping at center. Obviously, Romberg fits better at center because he's played it much, much more over his football career than Incognito or Setterstrom. There are some at Rams Park, however, who think Incognito's best position might be center. He does have to work on his long snapping, however. It was spotty at best in '06.
For some reason the Rams didn't like Jake Scott. I'm not sure why.
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Steve: hey jim, thanks for sticking with us and giving us this forum during free agency and the draft. with the rams missing out on pretty much everyone and perhaps overpaying for a kicker, do you still think players will go where the money is? i've said all along...very few players want to come to st. louis and very few want to play for a losing team. baltimore was rated as the least desirable city to play in, st. louis number 2. hopefully the draft is more productive. good thing we freed up all of that money cutting bruce so we can overpay for mediocre free agents.
Jim Thomas: Well, I too would've liked to see the Rams more active in free agency. But I wouldn't call Brown and Bell mediocre players. Plus, keep in mind, the Rams need some of this money to sign Atogwe and Jackson to long-term deals.
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MItch from San Diego: Hi JIm,
Jacob Bell? Please. Another undersized projection. The last time I looked LenDale White was getting stuffed and Vince Young was running for his life.
Jim Thomas: Last time I looked, the Titans finished the season 10-6 and allowed 30 sacks. The Rams finished 3-13 and allowed 48 sacks.
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Bryan: Any word if the Rams are working on a trade to bring in Roy Williams, or possibly even Chad Johnson? Also are the Rams any closer to signing Bell and a CB?
Jim Thomas: Don't know about any trades for Williams and Johnson. As you now know, Bell is now a Ram. The cornerback search continues. The Rams had Drayton Florence scheduled for Sunday, he signed instead with Jacksonville where he's from. They also were trying to get Jacques Reeves in, instead he signed with Houston.
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Thad: I don't know the specifics, but a friend of mine who runs a Steeler fan website and knows everything about the salary cap says that there's a special provision where a team can claim certain incentives if they are not earned in a year. He said there are restrictions on them, like how probable they are to be received. Zygmunt has been heralded in the past for his cap manuevering, although it sure doesn't seem like he has done a good job in recent years, otherwise they wouldn't have to be dumping all these salaries now. My question is, do the Rams ever utilize this rule, where they roll over cap space? I believe Minnesota typically does this and Philadelphia too. I would assume that he'd be aware of this rule, but maybe there's a logical reason if they don't use it. Any info on this?
Jim Thomas: I'm sure Jay is aware of this rule, and the Rams have probably used it in the past.
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Brian from Las Vegas: Jim,
Are you hearing anything about a possible Rams/Lions trade for Roy Williams? By the way, the Lions really got the best of the Rams in last years trade, James Hall for a 5th round pick, and he only lasts one year.
Jim Thomas: I haven't heard anything about such a trade. I know Mike Martz doesn't think much of Williams. But it could be something that develops as we get closer to the draft.
As for Hall, I wouldn't catergorize a 5th rounder as giving up the farm. But there's no doubt Hall was a big disappointment. (Granted he was bothered by a nagging injury over the second half of the season, but 2 1/2 sacks for $3 million _ which is what Hall made last year _ isn't exacly much bang for the buck.
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JustMe: Have you or anyone at the Post-Dispatch been able to get Torry Holt's reaction to the release of Isaac Bruce? And is it really true that Bruce found out about his release via the television while awaiting a callback from the Rams(according to Balzer on Sirius NFL Radio)?
Is Deangelo Hall an option for the Rams?
If the Rams draft Glenn Dorsey, what happens to Carriker?
Jim Thomas: I haven't talked to Torry directly. But I've talked to someone who's talked to him. He was shocked.
Several days before Feb. 29, Scott Linehan told Bruce, if we can't re-do your contract, you're going to be cut. Plain and simple. So I don't think it was a surprise to Isaac.
Hall _ Sure he'd be an option if the Falcons are serious about trading him.
If Dorsey's a Ram _ Dorsey and Carriker are the starting DTs, with Carriker sliding out to end on some run downs. That would leave Glover (with reduced snaps, I'm sure) and Clifton Ryan as the backups, with Claude Wroten very much on the bubble.
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Frank Picone: Do you know the direction the Rams are going to go in at the WR position, which looks to be a large hole now with Bruce gone and the awful year Bennett had numbers and injury wise. Would Javon Walker be a possibility even though he still hasn't recovered fully from his knee injury. He seems like a guy that could rebound and he probably won't break the bank.
Jim Thomas: Walker is a guy whom the Rams would be interested in. But he's headed to Oakland for his first visit _ he's been out of the country. And as we've seen the last couple of years in free agency, the vast majority of players in the first week of free agency, sign with the first team they visit.
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YoMurphy: As of Monday morning, we have not signed Bell yet. Do we really need to throw money at an undersized free agent right now, whose best asset apparently is being athletic enough to recover after he initially gets blown up at the line of scrimmage? We could get a huge body on the cheap in the draft who is younger than 27 could we not? (after-all, it is being reported that Bell's age is one of his biggest assets) Why not let Devaney use his skills to target a value pick at guard and draft him in the 4th-6th round?
Also, if you saw another team in the NFL with cap space problems, and coming off of a 3-13 season set a record for the most money ever given to a kicker... what would your impression be of that organization? Add to that the fact that every other team in the league has signed either two or three players in free agency, and the Rams have not even received VISITS from these same players, despite having highly publicized interest in them. Should the Rams feel like the shy ugly girl who doesn't get invited to the prom or what?
Jim Thomas: Because of all the cap space, there's a lot of "records" being set for "highest paid" player at this or that position.
Bell is a pretty good player, who will be an upgrade over Setterstrom at LG. The Rams have cleared up sufficient cap space. And coming off a 3-13 season, with a head coach squarely on the hot seat, I'm sure they're not exactly the destination capital of free agency.
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Faris Chehabi: I have been thinking about the Rams in 2008 and I think what I came up with makes perfect sense. I say that we switch to a 3-4 defense and put Carriker and Little at the ends and Glover in the middle which means we don't draft Chris Long. Then for our linebackers we add Calvin Pace who is great in the 3-4 and won't be too expensive then Witherspoon beside him, sign Dan Morgan which won't be expensive at all and put him in the middle next to Witherspoon, and at the end put Tinoisomia. That defense would be so good and we would get many sacks. Then for the draft, we get Jake Long. We also would sign Jacob Bell who won't be that much money. Then that offensive line would be very good with Pace and Long at tackle. Then 2nd round maybe you draft Sam Baker at center or just try out the many options we have. We can also draft a Linebacker with our 2nd round. It makes perfect sense to me. What do you think?
Jim Thomas: As you saw, Pace and Jacob Bell were pretty expensive. And Glover is too small to play nose tackle in the 3-4. The Rams will still incorporate the 3-4 into their defensive package, as they did last season.
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Sam: Who do you think Miami is going to take with the #1 pick? Any real possibility that they trade down?
Jim Thomas: Hard to say. I think you can make a case for either of the Longs, Dorsey, and even McFadden. When he was with the Jets, Parcells traded out of the No. 1 spot before the '97 draft _ with the Rams, who took Orlando Pace.
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james mcmorise: do u have any idea what the rams are going to do i love them but are they tryiong to lose fans why cant we sign anyone
Jim Thomas: I think their No. 1 goal in free agency was to come up with some help on the interior of the o-line. They signed LG Jacob Bell, and are still looking at possible centers. They tried to get in on Bernard Berrian at WR, but as you saw he ended up with Minnesota. I believe they have some interest in Javon Walker, but he's reportedly making his first trip to Oakland. They'd like to add a veteran corner, don't really like the options left at corner, and have expressed at least initial interest (along with about 15 other teams) in a possible trade with Philadelphia for Lito Sheppard.
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Faris Chehabi: Why have the 3-13 Rams gotten one player in free agency, a kicker. It doesn't seem like we have much interest in players that we need. We're letting players slip through the cracks without even talking to them. Lance Briggs is a 4-3 player and the Rams choose not to speak with him. Randall Gay just signed with the Saints for only 4 years 18 million. Justin Smith went to our rival team the 49ers. We really need to step it up and get some players that we desperately need. We need to close off the deal with Jacob Bell that will improve out line. Also, what is the chances that the Rams will trade the pick their pick to maybe the Cowboys? Does Billy Devaney like to trade his picks or stay with what he has? Thanks.
Jim Thomas: The Rams don't see linebacker as an area of need. They didn't like Randall Gay as an option at corner. Is Justin Smith really worth $45 million after a 2-sack season in '07. The Cowboys picks are just too low to trade down from No. 2. Devaney is open to a trade.
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Sam, Southern Illinois: Do see the rams trading down to gather picks and maybe selecting Vernon Gholston from Ohio State?
Jim Thomas: If the Rams could trade down to say No. 6 or No. 7, they'd be more than happy to pick Gholston or DT Sedrick Ellis of USC and pick up some extra picks. I think the key is if there's someone willing to trade up to No. 2 (for McFadden?)
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jerry bartels: Hi Jim, once again Thanks for a great column.. Everyone has gone thru the regular names. One guy I've heard some good things about--but no one seems to mention is Eddie Royal. Do know anything about him or have a opinion. I'm guessing from what I read it would be a second round choice or he'd be gone.. Thanks Jerry Bartels
Jim Thomas: I can't help you on this one. But I'll try to file it away.
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gabriel: jim why is it the rams are so happy in getting backup type players?
we have money but dont go after anyone
Jim Thomas: Not sure what you mean here. K Josh Brown is one of the top kickers in the game. G Jacob Bell was widely considered among the top three guards available in the free-agent pool
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JIM: Did the rams even go to Bruce enough to see if he lost his talent or has slipped?
Jim Thomas: Sure, they went to Bruce enough. The feeling at Rams Park was that Bruce no longer could run past people like he used to; that he got next to no yards after the catch; and that he got knocked down too often trying to get past the line of scrimmage. They agree, however, that Bruce remains very effective on short and intermediate routes.
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gabriel: jim how are you doing once again thank you for this post
well jim am ###### i think all rams fans are ###### this is how you fix the problem this offseaaon has started off very bad not just because of Isaac Bruce but because of all the great players out there and we havent gone after one of them please tell me it will get better.
are there any moves coming from the rams that will make fans happy?
thank you jim.
Jim Thomas: What a day. After the Jacob Bell news conference at Rams Park (Tues., March 4), I left Rams Park at 11:45 a.m. I got home shortly before 4 p.m. A tractor trailer blocked I-70 for nearly 3 hours. So sorry for the delay.
I see you sent your question in on the first day of free agency. Since then Jeff Wilkins has retired. Josh Brown has replaced him. Alan Faneca said no thanks to the Rams, and the regrouped by signing Jacob Bell.
I know it's tough to see these older Rams go, but team management seems intent on "greening" the roster. Only Pace, Little, and Holt are left from the '99 Super Bowl team.
highlights...
he would have liked to see the team a bit more active, but alludes to how STL is not a dream destination for free agents, coming off a 3-13 season & HC on one of the white hottest hot seats in the league this upcoming season (possibly being perceived as a team in decline/disarray)... likes the josh brown & jacob bell signings... brown signed richest contract for a kicker in NFL history, and bell should be an upgrade over stetterstrom at LG...
thomas thinks they may be looking closest at the longs (chris & jake), would be amenable to dropping down to about #6, adding picks & getting gholston or ellis, but it is questionable whether one of few teams between 3-6 would want to move up...
some fans in chat were disappointed in lack of activity early on, but he reminded them that they have contract extensions looming for steven jackson & O.J. atogwe...
there may be a trade coming, that could bring a starter, but it isn't a blockbuster...
bruce was let go because the organization thought his skills had diminished to the point he wasn't worth what he was asking (though thomas disagreed)...
there is concern in rams land whether bennett is up to being the WR2, but they will find out...
supposedly team doesn't think LB is a pressing need (other than MLB witherspoon who is more than competent, WLB tinoisamoa is constantly hurt & SLB chillar not expected back)... thomas thinks that if the team secures veteran WR help in free agency (they may have had interest in berrian & walker, & may still in hackett?), they may look at CB position in round two... conversely, if they get vet CB help in free agency, the second round pick could be earmarked for a WR...
Jim Thomas Chat
T.C.: Hi Jim. Two-part question here: With the combine over, what is the scuttlebutt in the organization regarding that second overall pick? I would think the Longs (Chris and Jake) hold an edge over everyone, including Glenn Dorsey. Also, do the Rams have any interest in Justin Smith, a solid (but not spectacular) DE?
Jim Thomas: According to Justin Smith's agent, Jim Steiner, the Rams showed no interest. And as you know by now, Smith is now a 49er.
Before the injury questions came out, I got the sense that the Rams felt Dorsey was the top player in the draft. McFadden's workout wowed them _ as I'm sure it did other clubs _ but they've got Jackson. I think they regard Jake Long as a safe pick. And the more they look at tape of Chris Long, I think he's growing on them. I know that doesn't clear things up much, but I think that's where they're at right now.
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JC: Hello again, Jim.
Now that Brown is our new kicker, will Justin Medlock be waived? Or will he stay through camp as insurance?
Jim Thomas: I'm sure Medlock, who was a fifth-rounder last year I believe, will stick through camp.
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Bill: Hey Jim, the signing of Drew Bennett continues to haunt the Rams, as now they have to let Isaac go, and there's virtually nothing left in free agency. Where do you see the Rams going with this? Are the wide receivers in this year's draft deep? Any feel for what they might do? thanks
Jim Thomas: The options are dwindling almost by the hour in free agency. We're talking Bryant Johnson, D.J. Hackett and Javon Walker. I guess there could always be a trade. (Roy Williams? Chad Johnson?)
I think there's pretty good depth at WR in the draft, although I've yet to study that position very closely. But there's certainly not a top 5 type in the draft pool. Here's what I see right now, realizing this is a moving target. If the Rams come up with veteran help at WR before the draft, they strongly consider taking a CB in the second round. (No. 33 overall) If they come up with veteran help at CB before the draft, they strongly consider talking a WR in the second round.
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Jarod: I think we're all a little worried about Bennett as our second receiver. Do you know if the Rams have any interest in Bryant Johnson or DJ Hackett? Also, this big trade you speak of, when is this supposed to go down?
Jim Thomas: I think we all should be worried about Bennett as the No. 2, based on what we saw last year. I have no read on Bryant Johnson from the Rams (I personally think he drops a lot of passes). I think the Rams do have some interest in Hackett _ he has some speed and big play ability _ but are concerned about his injury history.
As for this "Big Trade" I never said there was a "Big Trade" in the works. I think that's a creation of sports talk radio. I said I was aware of a possible trade _ but was not at liberty _ to give more specifics. It would bring a starting player to the Rams, but certainly wouldn't be categorized as a blockbuster.
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Joe DiFazio: Jim, any thought to drafting Jake Long and possibly trading Alex Barron?
Jim Thomas: Haven't heard that, but it doesn't mean it won't happen. There's also the possibility that the Rams draft Jake Long, keep Barron, have Long play a year or two at right guard, and then slide Incognito back to center.
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high ridge bob: What do you realistically think the Rams could get for the number 2 pick in the draft? A #1 and a #3? Do you think they should trade down to get more picks???? Thanx for the sounding board...
Jim Thomas: It depends on where that No. 1 is. If the Rams trade down, I don't think they'd like to go any lower than No. 6 or No. 7. Right now, that looks like it would be a good scenario for the Rams seeing as they're not getting much out of free agency. Me personally, I think they'd love for someone seeking McFadden to trade up to No. 2. (Oakland?)
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The Chief: Hey Jim. Glad you're back. Is there any reason why Brown was signed versus going after the guy who kicked during pre-season? Wouldn't that have been cheaper? Also, are we going to get a speed receiver for the new OC?
Jim Thomas: Brown is a proven kicker; the camp kicker "Sparky" Lovell, isn't.
I sure hope they get a speed receiver. They need one in the worst way. But I don't know where.
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Tom: Hi Jim,
The thought of Bruce in a SF uniform is making me sick to my stomach. Was it all about the money, or is he looking to be a starter? If it was the money, he's earned the right for the Rams to pay him whatever someone else offers, and then some. Why didn't we give him that? I view letting Bruce leave as a sign that management is out of touch with the fans.
Jim Thomas: I think enough people on the second floor at Rams Park (front office, coaching staff) thought Bruce's skills had deteriorated to the point where he wasn't worth the money. I don't agree with that, but that's what happened.
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george_allen: what's your forecast regarding the center position -
will incognito or stetterstrom move over, will fry make it as a back-up,will romberg be back, will they pick up free agent to be the starter ?
Jim Thomas: This one's totally up for grabs. KC free agent Casey Wiegmann remains a possibility but he's 35. I don't think the Rams like Baltimore's Flynn, a recent cap casualty. And there's always the possibility of a trade.
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Joe: Jim,
Any news on contract talks with Atogwe, Chillar, or Jackson. I don't think our inactivity in FA is as big a deal as many due to that lack of talent...outside of Faneca I wouldn't throw money at anyone out there. What worries me is not taking care of our own guys. IMO, there should be a 3 year offer on the table for Chillar, and 5-7 year deal for Jackson and a 3-5 year deal for Atogwe. I hope there is.
Something else that bothered me was how long it took for us to cut our players. Why did we wait till the start of FA to cut players and create CAP???
And please tell me that the Rams are NOT thinking of drafting Dorsey and his bad back, knees, leg, and ankle!
Jim Thomas: The timing of the cap cuts is of little consequence. The Rams knew what the money would be if they made the cuts. Bruce was a tough decision. The Rams were shopping Hall, hoping to get something in a trade, when that didn't materialze they cut him.
Once Atogwe was tendered as a restricted free agent, I think _ I think _ his contract talks are back burner for a while. I think Jackson's renegotiation comes next. Chillar was supposed to conclude a visit to Arizona on Tuesday and head to Green bay. I don't think he's coming back.
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Reggie: What are the Rams trying to do to better the team. I hear and read about the cuts to free up salary cap money, but we have only signed a kicker. A good kicker I might add. But where are we headed. there a lot of holes to file on the defensive and offensive line as well as at receiver. Is there a major trade on the horizon?
Jim Thomas: I'm not aware of any major trade on the horizon, but we'll see what happens down the road.
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Chris: Jim:
I've been hearing that Trent Green is the likely backup candidate for the Rams in 2008. I've also been hearing (suprise to me) that Randy Moss is trying to find a home for himself and Daunte Culpepper. Would Culpepper be an upgrade at backup over Trent Green, and with the addition of Moss to the receiver corps, would that not give Bulger or Culpepper a better option downfield (assuming either of them has the time to throw - depending on what happens with the O-line)?
Jim Thomas: Linehan doesn't feel that Culpepper would be viable as a backup, because he wouldn't get many practice reps and is the type of player that needs practice reps to stay sharp unlike some veteran backups.
Obviously, Moss is off the board. I don't think Moss was ever going to do anything but re-sign with New England.
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BC: I understand that you shouldn't just jump to spend money in the early stages of free agency, however, with Issac Bruce going to the 49ers and all of the needs on defense why did we not put our name in the hat for the likes of a Lance Briggs, Asante Samuels, etc. and offensively, Bernard Berrian, Randy Moss (no I'm not smoking crack) or Donte Stallworth? Is Josh Brown the answer?
I thought the front office shakeup meant that we were going to do things differently!!!!!!
Jim Thomas: There's no way Moss was leaving New England. There's some off the field issues with Stallworth. The Rams tried to get involved with Berrian. I would've loved to have seen them sign him. Don't know if Samuel was ever in play.
I like the Brown and Bell signings, but I would've liked to have seen one more big FA signing.
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Jerry Mullner: Not a question for your show, but for you...did you go to Ohio State?
Jim Thomas: Two years at George Washington U. (in D.C.) then finished up at UMSL.
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MItch from San Diego: Hi again,
Thanks again for listening to us. If the Rams need improved play and depth at corner, a stout front four would work wonders for the group of DB's in place. I say take Chris Long, DE (VA) in round one and Lawrence Jackson, DE (USC) in round two. These guys are not the second coming of Reggie White but are relentless every down players of high character that will play at a high level for years. The Rams can fortify the DT spots in the middle and late rounds.
As for the o-line, forget FA's. If we are going to have a youth movement, let's get on with it. Why not draft guys like Mike McGlynn or John Greco in the mid rounds and just plug them in. Either or both of these guys have upside. If we have good coaches and teachers, they should do at least as well as an undersized FA such as Jacob Bell. He ends up on the ground a lot, I hear. The Titans offense was awful last year and it started with their o-line. Why would we want one of their players?
Wide receiver needs? We let Isaac Bruce walk so it can't be that bad. So why not let Dane Looker have a shot. He is better than Drew "wrongway" Bennett, he is faster than given credit for and has delivered every time he was called upon. Save the money and draft picks and just give him a chance. Just look at what Mike Furrey did in Detroit when he got a chance. Why not??
Just my view.
Jim Thomas: I'm all for beefing up the defensive front. Even with Leonard Little getting restructuring, I think the Rams need an every-down end (such as Chris Long), and an edge rusher to man their Buck end position.
As for Bell, he's only 27 so that's a youth movement right there. And he does NOT spend much time on the ground.
At wide receiver, scary as it sounds, Drew Bennett is the starter now that Bruce is gone. When you sign a $30 million contract, you get more than one chance. Supposedly he has been bluntly told at Rams Park that his "redshirt" year is over and it's time to produce.
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Brian: Hi Jim, I have a few questions about the offensive line.
1.) Can you tell me the status of Mark Setterstrom? How is he progressing from his knee injury last year?
2.) Who fits better at Center...Incognito, Setterstrom or Romberg?
3.) Why wouldn't the Rams sign both free agents Bell and Scott, since Romberg is probably a fringe type player and Incognito and Setterstrom could probably play the center position and provide good depth on the OL. I would estimate that Bell and Scott could be had for around the dollars that Smiley received from the Dolphins or even a little less at around $5 million per season per player.
Thanks for your time.
Jim Thomas: Setterstrom is progressing very well. He asked for a football during a recent stop at Rams Park, so he could work on his snapping at center. Obviously, Romberg fits better at center because he's played it much, much more over his football career than Incognito or Setterstrom. There are some at Rams Park, however, who think Incognito's best position might be center. He does have to work on his long snapping, however. It was spotty at best in '06.
For some reason the Rams didn't like Jake Scott. I'm not sure why.
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Steve: hey jim, thanks for sticking with us and giving us this forum during free agency and the draft. with the rams missing out on pretty much everyone and perhaps overpaying for a kicker, do you still think players will go where the money is? i've said all along...very few players want to come to st. louis and very few want to play for a losing team. baltimore was rated as the least desirable city to play in, st. louis number 2. hopefully the draft is more productive. good thing we freed up all of that money cutting bruce so we can overpay for mediocre free agents.
Jim Thomas: Well, I too would've liked to see the Rams more active in free agency. But I wouldn't call Brown and Bell mediocre players. Plus, keep in mind, the Rams need some of this money to sign Atogwe and Jackson to long-term deals.
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MItch from San Diego: Hi JIm,
Jacob Bell? Please. Another undersized projection. The last time I looked LenDale White was getting stuffed and Vince Young was running for his life.
Jim Thomas: Last time I looked, the Titans finished the season 10-6 and allowed 30 sacks. The Rams finished 3-13 and allowed 48 sacks.
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Bryan: Any word if the Rams are working on a trade to bring in Roy Williams, or possibly even Chad Johnson? Also are the Rams any closer to signing Bell and a CB?
Jim Thomas: Don't know about any trades for Williams and Johnson. As you now know, Bell is now a Ram. The cornerback search continues. The Rams had Drayton Florence scheduled for Sunday, he signed instead with Jacksonville where he's from. They also were trying to get Jacques Reeves in, instead he signed with Houston.
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Thad: I don't know the specifics, but a friend of mine who runs a Steeler fan website and knows everything about the salary cap says that there's a special provision where a team can claim certain incentives if they are not earned in a year. He said there are restrictions on them, like how probable they are to be received. Zygmunt has been heralded in the past for his cap manuevering, although it sure doesn't seem like he has done a good job in recent years, otherwise they wouldn't have to be dumping all these salaries now. My question is, do the Rams ever utilize this rule, where they roll over cap space? I believe Minnesota typically does this and Philadelphia too. I would assume that he'd be aware of this rule, but maybe there's a logical reason if they don't use it. Any info on this?
Jim Thomas: I'm sure Jay is aware of this rule, and the Rams have probably used it in the past.
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Brian from Las Vegas: Jim,
Are you hearing anything about a possible Rams/Lions trade for Roy Williams? By the way, the Lions really got the best of the Rams in last years trade, James Hall for a 5th round pick, and he only lasts one year.
Jim Thomas: I haven't heard anything about such a trade. I know Mike Martz doesn't think much of Williams. But it could be something that develops as we get closer to the draft.
As for Hall, I wouldn't catergorize a 5th rounder as giving up the farm. But there's no doubt Hall was a big disappointment. (Granted he was bothered by a nagging injury over the second half of the season, but 2 1/2 sacks for $3 million _ which is what Hall made last year _ isn't exacly much bang for the buck.
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JustMe: Have you or anyone at the Post-Dispatch been able to get Torry Holt's reaction to the release of Isaac Bruce? And is it really true that Bruce found out about his release via the television while awaiting a callback from the Rams(according to Balzer on Sirius NFL Radio)?
Is Deangelo Hall an option for the Rams?
If the Rams draft Glenn Dorsey, what happens to Carriker?
Jim Thomas: I haven't talked to Torry directly. But I've talked to someone who's talked to him. He was shocked.
Several days before Feb. 29, Scott Linehan told Bruce, if we can't re-do your contract, you're going to be cut. Plain and simple. So I don't think it was a surprise to Isaac.
Hall _ Sure he'd be an option if the Falcons are serious about trading him.
If Dorsey's a Ram _ Dorsey and Carriker are the starting DTs, with Carriker sliding out to end on some run downs. That would leave Glover (with reduced snaps, I'm sure) and Clifton Ryan as the backups, with Claude Wroten very much on the bubble.
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Frank Picone: Do you know the direction the Rams are going to go in at the WR position, which looks to be a large hole now with Bruce gone and the awful year Bennett had numbers and injury wise. Would Javon Walker be a possibility even though he still hasn't recovered fully from his knee injury. He seems like a guy that could rebound and he probably won't break the bank.
Jim Thomas: Walker is a guy whom the Rams would be interested in. But he's headed to Oakland for his first visit _ he's been out of the country. And as we've seen the last couple of years in free agency, the vast majority of players in the first week of free agency, sign with the first team they visit.
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YoMurphy: As of Monday morning, we have not signed Bell yet. Do we really need to throw money at an undersized free agent right now, whose best asset apparently is being athletic enough to recover after he initially gets blown up at the line of scrimmage? We could get a huge body on the cheap in the draft who is younger than 27 could we not? (after-all, it is being reported that Bell's age is one of his biggest assets) Why not let Devaney use his skills to target a value pick at guard and draft him in the 4th-6th round?
Also, if you saw another team in the NFL with cap space problems, and coming off of a 3-13 season set a record for the most money ever given to a kicker... what would your impression be of that organization? Add to that the fact that every other team in the league has signed either two or three players in free agency, and the Rams have not even received VISITS from these same players, despite having highly publicized interest in them. Should the Rams feel like the shy ugly girl who doesn't get invited to the prom or what?
Jim Thomas: Because of all the cap space, there's a lot of "records" being set for "highest paid" player at this or that position.
Bell is a pretty good player, who will be an upgrade over Setterstrom at LG. The Rams have cleared up sufficient cap space. And coming off a 3-13 season, with a head coach squarely on the hot seat, I'm sure they're not exactly the destination capital of free agency.
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Faris Chehabi: I have been thinking about the Rams in 2008 and I think what I came up with makes perfect sense. I say that we switch to a 3-4 defense and put Carriker and Little at the ends and Glover in the middle which means we don't draft Chris Long. Then for our linebackers we add Calvin Pace who is great in the 3-4 and won't be too expensive then Witherspoon beside him, sign Dan Morgan which won't be expensive at all and put him in the middle next to Witherspoon, and at the end put Tinoisomia. That defense would be so good and we would get many sacks. Then for the draft, we get Jake Long. We also would sign Jacob Bell who won't be that much money. Then that offensive line would be very good with Pace and Long at tackle. Then 2nd round maybe you draft Sam Baker at center or just try out the many options we have. We can also draft a Linebacker with our 2nd round. It makes perfect sense to me. What do you think?
Jim Thomas: As you saw, Pace and Jacob Bell were pretty expensive. And Glover is too small to play nose tackle in the 3-4. The Rams will still incorporate the 3-4 into their defensive package, as they did last season.
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Sam: Who do you think Miami is going to take with the #1 pick? Any real possibility that they trade down?
Jim Thomas: Hard to say. I think you can make a case for either of the Longs, Dorsey, and even McFadden. When he was with the Jets, Parcells traded out of the No. 1 spot before the '97 draft _ with the Rams, who took Orlando Pace.
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james mcmorise: do u have any idea what the rams are going to do i love them but are they tryiong to lose fans why cant we sign anyone
Jim Thomas: I think their No. 1 goal in free agency was to come up with some help on the interior of the o-line. They signed LG Jacob Bell, and are still looking at possible centers. They tried to get in on Bernard Berrian at WR, but as you saw he ended up with Minnesota. I believe they have some interest in Javon Walker, but he's reportedly making his first trip to Oakland. They'd like to add a veteran corner, don't really like the options left at corner, and have expressed at least initial interest (along with about 15 other teams) in a possible trade with Philadelphia for Lito Sheppard.
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Faris Chehabi: Why have the 3-13 Rams gotten one player in free agency, a kicker. It doesn't seem like we have much interest in players that we need. We're letting players slip through the cracks without even talking to them. Lance Briggs is a 4-3 player and the Rams choose not to speak with him. Randall Gay just signed with the Saints for only 4 years 18 million. Justin Smith went to our rival team the 49ers. We really need to step it up and get some players that we desperately need. We need to close off the deal with Jacob Bell that will improve out line. Also, what is the chances that the Rams will trade the pick their pick to maybe the Cowboys? Does Billy Devaney like to trade his picks or stay with what he has? Thanks.
Jim Thomas: The Rams don't see linebacker as an area of need. They didn't like Randall Gay as an option at corner. Is Justin Smith really worth $45 million after a 2-sack season in '07. The Cowboys picks are just too low to trade down from No. 2. Devaney is open to a trade.
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Sam, Southern Illinois: Do see the rams trading down to gather picks and maybe selecting Vernon Gholston from Ohio State?
Jim Thomas: If the Rams could trade down to say No. 6 or No. 7, they'd be more than happy to pick Gholston or DT Sedrick Ellis of USC and pick up some extra picks. I think the key is if there's someone willing to trade up to No. 2 (for McFadden?)
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jerry bartels: Hi Jim, once again Thanks for a great column.. Everyone has gone thru the regular names. One guy I've heard some good things about--but no one seems to mention is Eddie Royal. Do know anything about him or have a opinion. I'm guessing from what I read it would be a second round choice or he'd be gone.. Thanks Jerry Bartels
Jim Thomas: I can't help you on this one. But I'll try to file it away.
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gabriel: jim why is it the rams are so happy in getting backup type players?
we have money but dont go after anyone
Jim Thomas: Not sure what you mean here. K Josh Brown is one of the top kickers in the game. G Jacob Bell was widely considered among the top three guards available in the free-agent pool
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JIM: Did the rams even go to Bruce enough to see if he lost his talent or has slipped?
Jim Thomas: Sure, they went to Bruce enough. The feeling at Rams Park was that Bruce no longer could run past people like he used to; that he got next to no yards after the catch; and that he got knocked down too often trying to get past the line of scrimmage. They agree, however, that Bruce remains very effective on short and intermediate routes.
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gabriel: jim how are you doing once again thank you for this post
well jim am ###### i think all rams fans are ###### this is how you fix the problem this offseaaon has started off very bad not just because of Isaac Bruce but because of all the great players out there and we havent gone after one of them please tell me it will get better.
are there any moves coming from the rams that will make fans happy?
thank you jim.
Jim Thomas: What a day. After the Jacob Bell news conference at Rams Park (Tues., March 4), I left Rams Park at 11:45 a.m. I got home shortly before 4 p.m. A tractor trailer blocked I-70 for nearly 3 hours. So sorry for the delay.
I see you sent your question in on the first day of free agency. Since then Jeff Wilkins has retired. Josh Brown has replaced him. Alan Faneca said no thanks to the Rams, and the regrouped by signing Jacob Bell.
I know it's tough to see these older Rams go, but team management seems intent on "greening" the roster. Only Pace, Little, and Holt are left from the '99 Super Bowl team.
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