Rams trading #2 pick (1 Viewer)

[Andy Dufresne]

You know how we bump threads after a couple years to make fun of a post/poster....?

 

[Bracie Smathers]

As a Rams fan I am expecting Cleveland to end up trading with us for the #2 overall and this is what I am expecting in return.

Cleveland's #4 this year, #22 this year and their 1st round pick in 2013 for the 2nd overall pick in 2012, the Rams 3rd round pick this year and like a 3rd or 4th next year.

Cleveland will end up being the traing partner.......I have no doubt.

OK.The Rams will most likely end up trading their pick this year. Their are only so-many players at the top of the draft who are seen as blue-chip players and their are probably only two of those blue-chip players who would fill a dire need on the Rams meaning if the Rams want to come out of this draft with a blue chip player then they would want either Cleveland or Washington's top pick this year and to be even more specific their best shot to get a blue chip player who would fill a dire need is with Cleveland's top pick.

Go to link for full read.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.html

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlhttp://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlCornerback could be in Rams' draft plans We interrupt the Robert Griffin III, Justin Blackmon, Matt Kalil portion of the pre-draft hype with these words: Morris Claiborne.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlClaiborne, the highly touted cornerback from Louisiana State University, very much figures into the draft deliberations at Rams Park, particularly in the likely event of a trade-down from the No. 2 overall pick.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlWidely considered the top cornerback in the 2012 draft, Claiborne could be an option for the Rams in a trade with Cleveland (at No. 4 overall) or Washington (at No. 6). Then again, the No. 6 might be too late for Claiborne, who won the Thorpe Award this past season as college football's top defensive back.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlA lot of mock drafts have Tampa Bay taking Claiborne at No. 5 overall, which makes sense for a couple of reasons. The Buccaneers need help at the position, and Claiborne's defensive backs coach at LSU, Ron Cooper, is now a member of Greg Schiano's staff in Tampa.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlIt's easy enough to see why the Rams would be interested, just in terms of the team's roster situation. By season's end, six of the 16 Rams players on injured reserve were cornerbacks. Among the top five cornerbacks from a year ago, Al Harris has retired, Justin King is an unrestricted free agent, and Ron Bartell (neck), Bradley Fletcher (knee) and Jerome Murphy (ankle) are coming back from season-ending injuries.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlBartell and Fletcher, minus the injuries, would give the Rams a solid set of starting cornerbacks. Bartell was cleared to play a couple of months ago after suffering a fractured neck in the 2011 season opener. Unlike Peyton Manning, Bartell didn't need surgery, but there's always uncertainty coming off neck injuries.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlFletcher is recovering from his second major knee injury in three NFL seasons; he has had anterior cruciate ligament injuries in both knees. Last season's injury occurred during a bye week practice in October, and it's uncertain when he'll be ready to play.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.html"The goal's to get him healthy," general manager Les Snead said. "With those type injuries, we'll not be able to put him on the field until he's 100 percent. You don't want to get it back too early and do further damage."

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.htmlSo unless the Rams add a starting cornerback via free agency, it almost seems like a necessity to add one in the draft. ...

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.html
http://www.stltoday.com/sports/foot...cle_4f35bd56-1e06-5025-8a8a-679ee44df6cc.html

To paraphrase Napoleon from George Orwell's Animal Farm 'Not all number one draft picks are the same, some are better than others.'The Rams want to trade their top pick and come away with a blue-chip player who fills a dire need on their team. They don't just want to come away with a bunch of picks, the point is to get that one blue-chip player who fills a dire need. To get that one player they have to set a reasonable market price or they will only come away with picks and miss out on the blue-chip player that they want who fills a dire need on their team.

 

[Dr. Awesome]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

Didn't Cam Newton play a spread offense? We're a long ways from it being a career but breaking Peyton Manning held records is a helluva start. And iirc didn't Cutler and Freeman play in an offense that was similar to a spread?

 

[Warpig]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

Didn't Cam Newton play a spread offense? We're a long ways from it being a career but breaking Peyton Manning held records is a helluva start. And iirc didn't Cutler and Freeman play in an offense that was similar to a spread?

From the words of Auburn's own head coach..."We run to set up the pass". Not sure what Auburn ran was a traditional spread offense. Perhaps they "dumbed" it down for Cam. Cam only made 280 pass attempts and rushed 264 times his last year at Auburn. That is not a spread offense.RGIII made 369 pass attempts and rushed 161 times (senior year). In his Junior year he made 454 pass attempts.

 

[runner06]

As a Rams fan I am expecting Cleveland to end up trading with us for the #2 overall and this is what I am expecting in return.Cleveland's #4 this year, #22 this year and their 1st round pick in 2013 for the 2nd overall pick in 2012, the Rams 3rd round pick this year and like a 3rd or 4th next year.Cleveland will end up being the traing partner.......I have no doubt.

Cleveland is supposedly more tentative then the other teams that want to trade up. He's also going to go for more then that most likely. I think the Dolphins or Redskins will end up landing the #2 overall pick.One rumor I've heard is that the Redskins are willing to give up their 1st, 2nd and 3rd round picks this year as well as the 2013 1st round pick. Bottom line for all the doubters are there I'd be shocked if he doesn't go go for at least two first rounders and a second rounder. There are to many teams interested in RGIII right now for him to not go for at least that much.I also don't think the Redskins rumored trade offer is to much to give up either. If RGIII ends up being a top 7 or 8 QB in the league he is worth far more then that. Half of second round picks bust anyways and more then half of third round picks bust. Quarterback is by far the most important position in the NFL right now with the way the rules are.

 

[Team ROFLCOPTERS]

Trading Bradford is extremely unlikely. The Rams would take a $14M dead money cap hit this year and the trading team would have to take on a huge contract that he would probably be unlikely to renegotiate.They'd be much better off trading down for as big a package as possible and adding some pieces around Bradford like a WR that can catch and some offensive-line help to keep him upright. Just the fact that Josh McDaniels is no longer there should help immensely.

I agree, I can't even consider trading Bradford a possibility. Watching some of the games this year the offensive line was swiss cheese. I don't know if it was the play calling, but it was terrible. I felt sorry for the guy. The last time I saw such horrid line play was for poor David Carr. I do believe there were a lot of under routes that Bradford could get the ball out with though to avoid getting hammered; I just hope he won't get feared so much his career turns into Carr'sSorry, getting back to the point, they should monitor the FAs and trade down to pick up some solid o-line help.

Expect to continue to feel sorry for him. He's going to have 4 new coordinators in 4 seasons if you take into consideration his last year in college. Poor management ruins young QB's. I feel really bad for the kid.

 

[Team ROFLCOPTERS]

So if i was the Rams and I knew that I was getting two total first rounders I would demand a first this year and next from Cleveland. Let them keep Atlanta's pick. The Cleveland pick next year will likely be a top 5 pick again. They don't have enough around the rookie QB to pull them out of the gutter in my respectfull opinion.

 

[Yenrub]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

Didn't Cam Newton play a spread offense? We're a long ways from it being a career but breaking Peyton Manning held records is a helluva start. And iirc didn't Cutler and Freeman play in an offense that was similar to a spread?

From the words of Auburn's own head coach..."We run to set up the pass". Not sure what Auburn ran was a traditional spread offense. Perhaps they "dumbed" it down for Cam. Cam only made 280 pass attempts and rushed 264 times his last year at Auburn. That is not a spread offense.RGIII made 369 pass attempts and rushed 161 times (senior year). In his Junior year he made 454 pass attempts.

There are so many versions of the spread offense in college It’s been a while but didn’t Drew Brees play in a spread at Purdue?

 

[Warpig]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

Didn't Cam Newton play a spread offense? We're a long ways from it being a career but breaking Peyton Manning held records is a helluva start. And iirc didn't Cutler and Freeman play in an offense that was similar to a spread?

From the words of Auburn's own head coach..."We run to set up the pass". Not sure what Auburn ran was a traditional spread offense. Perhaps they "dumbed" it down for Cam. Cam only made 280 pass attempts and rushed 264 times his last year at Auburn. That is not a spread offense.RGIII made 369 pass attempts and rushed 161 times (senior year). In his Junior year he made 454 pass attempts.

There are so many versions of the spread offense in college Its been a while but didnt Drew Brees play in a spread at Purdue?

It appears you would be correct (under Joe Tiller). I guess the term "Spread Offense" has been morphing to incorporate various sets. For example, one article I read said Bradford ran the "spread" while at Oklahoma but they ran the ball a good amount (41%). To me, a spread offense is when the running game is an after thought (See Florida Gators and Tim Tebow). There are numerous colleges out there that run that type of offense, UF is the first to come to mind and then there's Baylor. In 2010 - 2011 Baylor rushed 36% of the time (most of those carries were by RGIII). In 2009 they rushed 28% of the time. I can't find their rushing attempts for 2011-2012 but I'm sure it's similar (led by RGIII). It would be interesting to see how often Purdue rushed while Brees was there.

 

[FreeBaGeL]

I guess the term "Spread Offense" has been morphing to incorporate various sets. For example, one article I read said Bradford ran the "spread" while at Oklahoma but they ran the ball a good amount (41%). To me, a spread offense is when the running game is an after thought (See Florida Gators and Tim Tebow). There are numerous colleges out there that run that type of offense, UF is the first to come to mind and then there's Baylor. In 2010 - 2011 Baylor rushed 36% of the time (most of those carries were by RGIII). In 2009 they rushed 28% of the time. I can't find their rushing attempts for 2011-2012 but I'm sure it's similar (led by RGIII). It would be interesting to see how often Purdue rushed while Brees was there.

Errr, wut?Florida ran the ball 58%, 61%, and 62% in Tebow's three years as the starter at UF.In those seasons Florida was 1st in the SEC in rushing every year and was 20th, 6th, and 7th in the entire NCAA.In 2008 they actually rushed for more yards per game (231.4) than they passed for (221.4) which is almost unheard of. They rushed for 200+ yards per game every year.Outside of Georgia Tech, you probably could not have picked a team that was a worse example of the point you were trying to make EDIT: Your numbers are off for Baylor as well (it was actually 43%, not 36%). Are you not counting QB runs? Most of those QB runs are designed running plays, not scrambles, so I wouldn't count a QB run as a passing play.

 

[Dexter Manley]

As a Rams fan I am expecting Cleveland to end up trading with us for the #2 overall and this is what I am expecting in return.Cleveland's #4 this year, #22 this year and their 1st round pick in 2013 for the 2nd overall pick in 2012, the Rams 3rd round pick this year and like a 3rd or 4th next year.Cleveland will end up being the traing partner.......I have no doubt.

One rumor I've heard is that the Redskins are willing to give up their 1st, 2nd and 3rd round picks this year as well as the 2013 1st round pick.

I loled when I heard this rumor. The only way this actually leaked from Washington is if it's a smokescreen and the Skins are actually looking to trade down and draft a qb later.Also, imo, this would be the absolute highest price that the Skins would pay if they were to trade up to 1.02.What's most interesting to me right now is when is STL going to pull the trigger? Normally, these types of deals occur right before or even on the actual day of the draft. But with Manning and Flynn available in FA, if one of those guys signs with the Browns or Skins, the Rams lose a lot of leverage. I'm guessing that the Rams don't want to pick any lower than 1.06. There's a sizeable risk for STL to wait and to do this deal until after FA starts. Finally, it wouldn't surprise me at all that this Manning to Washington stuff was intentionally leaked to put pressure on STL. It's very possible that the Browns could of done the same thing wrt Flynn. This is basically a game of high stakes poker right now.

 

[Dexter Manley]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

So Drew Brees isn't successful? Kyle Orton played in the same offense as Brees. You think Cam Newton was a bust last year? Bradford played in the spread at OU (which I personally really like since they incorporate the power running game with it). Freeman played in the spread at KSU. Alex Smith took the 49ers to the brink of the Super Bowl this past year, and he played in the same college offense as Tebow. I could go on...

 

[pantherclub]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

So Drew Brees isn't successful? Kyle Orton played in the same offense as Brees. You think Cam Newton was a bust last year? Bradford played in the spread at OU (which I personally really like since they incorporate the power running game with it). Freeman played in the spread at KSU. Alex Smith took the 49ers to the brink of the Super Bowl this past year, and he played in the same college offense as Tebow. I could go on...

mcnabb as well

 

[Bri]

Fisher's gotta get his linemen. Somehow, one of these plans will go through because Fisher gets the linemen he covets so much.

Teams' caps are so fluid right now, it almost doesn't matter who can afford him now; although it is fun to discuss. Free agents, cuts, and signings will change everything by draft time along with some of these prospects saying something dopey and a doc finding at least one to have a crucial injury history we didn't know about.

McCoy struggled last year, but I love that guys style of play and determination when the game's on the line and all. He was more impressive as a rook. With positive thoughts of him going into 2011, I didn't feel Cleveland would be very good. If they trade for this QB, it seems very much the same. Cleveland doesn't have any luck if not for bad luck. If they make this trade it's not so difficult to wonder if the picks they trade all turn out to be good for the Rams. The Browns need as many improvements as they can get at so many positions. I think they'll make this trade, but I also think if they kept their picks their team would be better off.

They don't sign a bunch of free agents because they don't attract a bunch of free agents. The draft is about all they've got to improve their team.

 

[Bri]

Which of these teams is most likely to move? For whatever debatable reason, QBs seem to increase a franchise's value and/or attractiveness to new fans and new owners.

 

[fatness]

Stephen Ross is just concerned about flash as Dan Snyder, the difference is Snyder now has Shanny to bring him back to Earth.

Mike Shanahan has a worse record in Washington than Jim Zorn did. With another losing season there's a decent chance he's gone, so I don't think he's going to be very about "slow and sure, Dan" when advising Snyder about Griffin. If they draft Griffin it buys Shanahan several years even if the Skins have losing records in those years. And it takes some scrutiny off Shanahan and diverts it to the flashy young potentially-very-good QB.

 

[Warpig]

I guess the term "Spread Offense" has been morphing to incorporate various sets. For example, one article I read said Bradford ran the "spread" while at Oklahoma but they ran the ball a good amount (41%). To me, a spread offense is when the running game is an after thought (See Florida Gators and Tim Tebow). There are numerous colleges out there that run that type of offense, UF is the first to come to mind and then there's Baylor. In 2010 - 2011 Baylor rushed 36% of the time (most of those carries were by RGIII). In 2009 they rushed 28% of the time. I can't find their rushing attempts for 2011-2012 but I'm sure it's similar (led by RGIII). It would be interesting to see how often Purdue rushed while Brees was there.

Errr, wut?Florida ran the ball 58%, 61%, and 62% in Tebow's three years as the starter at UF.

In those seasons Florida was 1st in the SEC in rushing every year and was 20th, 6th, and 7th in the entire NCAA.

In 2008 they actually rushed for more yards per game (231.4) than they passed for (221.4) which is almost unheard of. They rushed for 200+ yards per game every year.

Outside of Georgia Tech, you probably could not have picked a team that was a worse example of the point you were trying to make

EDIT: Your numbers are off for Baylor as well (it was actually 43%, not 36%). Are you not counting QB runs? Most of those QB runs are designed running plays, not scrambles, so I wouldn't count a QB run as a passing play.

Curious as to which website you got your numbers from. The website I used showed totally different numbers. And I'm not sure if the numbers included QB runs. But part of my point IS the QB leads the team in rushing. And any college that produces a STUD RB (ADP at Oklahoma, and Daniel Thomas at KSU for example) is not running a true spread offense since they are running the ball enough for the RB's to be heavily incorporated and productive. If anything, they are running "NFL style offenses". 3 WR sets are becoming the norm. But true spreads do just that...they spread the defense out with 4 or 5 WR's creating huge running lanes for the QB. Quick, name the last good RB from Florida (not named Tebow), from Purdue, Utah, Boise State, Hawaii, Texas Tech...I could go on.

 

[ImTheScientist]

You know how we bump threads after a couple years to make fun of a post/poster....?

I have the Russell Wilson book marked for that very reason.

 

[Boston]

The biggest question these QB-needy teams need to answer is do they think Griffin will be a franchise NFL QB...if the answer is yes than you make a deal for him...the NFL is a QB's league...forget how you built teams 10-15 years ago...the best way to ensure success is to find the elite QB than build around him...Manning x2, Brady x2, Big Ben x2, Rodgers and Brees...these are the QBs from the Super Bowl champs since 2004...if you have a chance to snag an elite QB you have to go for it because they do not grow on trees (and yes they can come out of nowhere like Brady but you can't count on that happening)...that's why it is imperative that a team's scouting staff makes the correct call on who is a a franchise-level QB because if you miss on this type of pick it will set you back years...

 

[dhockster]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

RGIII doesn't have the stature to take hits from NFL defenses if he decides to run (which he likes to do a lot). He's no Cam Newton.

Spread offenses incorporate A LOT of smoke and mirrors. They are designed to produce crazy stats and accuracy numbers.

Here are just a few names of late that people ooh'd and ahhh'd over but have struggled in the NFL:

Colt Brennan, Graham Harrell, Chase Daniel, Blaine Gabbert, and Tim Tebow.

No way I would give up the haul it's gonna take to draft RGIII. If I were Cleveland, I'd force STL's hand to decide when they are on the clock. They either take RGIII or a Tackle. Then if RGIII falls to #4 perhaps I draft him there. If not, and I'm dead set on a QB, perhaps I look at Tannehill or trade back, or take another piece that I need to improve my team.

I totally need to be a GM!

I don't know who in the NFL were Oohing and Aahing over these QB's. 2 were undrafted (Harrell, Daniel), 1 went in the 6th round (Brennan), 1 was a surprise late 1st round pick (Tebow), and 1 went in the first round, but was the 3rd QB taken (Gabbart). To criticize Gabbert for struggling in his first year is a bit unfair, as he had very little to work with, and both Elway and Peyton Manning struggled in their first years. I think your criticism of RGIII because of the offense he played in is a bit unfair. He may not be everything people think he will be, but I don't think it will be because of the offense he was in.

 

[Warpig]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

RGIII doesn't have the stature to take hits from NFL defenses if he decides to run (which he likes to do a lot). He's no Cam Newton.

Spread offenses incorporate A LOT of smoke and mirrors. They are designed to produce crazy stats and accuracy numbers.

Here are just a few names of late that people ooh'd and ahhh'd over but have struggled in the NFL:

Colt Brennan, Graham Harrell, Chase Daniel, Blaine Gabbert, and Tim Tebow.

No way I would give up the haul it's gonna take to draft RGIII. If I were Cleveland, I'd force STL's hand to decide when they are on the clock. They either take RGIII or a Tackle. Then if RGIII falls to #4 perhaps I draft him there. If not, and I'm dead set on a QB, perhaps I look at Tannehill or trade back, or take another piece that I need to improve my team.

I totally need to be a GM!

I don't know who in the NFL were Oohing and Aahing over these QB's. 2 were undrafted (Harrell, Daniel), 1 went in the 6th round (Brennan), 1 was a surprise late 1st round pick (Tebow), and 1 went in the first round, but was the 3rd QB taken (Gabbart). To criticize Gabbert for struggling in his first year is a bit unfair, as he had very little to work with, and both Elway and Peyton Manning struggled in their first years. I think your criticism of RGIII because of the offense he played in is a bit unfair. He may not be everything people think he will be, but I don't think it will be because of the offense he was in.

Oh no. Gabbert is and forever will be horrible. I lived in Missouri, my wife and her family are huge Tiger fans. Watched a lot of MU football games. Gabbert is terrible regardless of his surrounding weapons.I'm not hating on RGIII. I hope he is successful. I'm just saying that, so far, it has been almost impossible for QB's from true spread offenses in college to adapt to the NFL. And in the case of a Drew Brees, it took him about 3 years before he started having success. Are there any coaches or GM's that are gonna be given that long if they draft a QB #1 or #2?

I think if Shanahan or Shurmur or Philbin give up the haul it's gonna take to get RGIII and if it takes RGIII a while to settle in, those coaches will be on their way out the door since they likely will be handicapping their team, overall, to bring in RGIII.

 

[B-Deep]

There has not been a single QB that came from a spread offense in college to have a successful career in the NFL. At best, they have been career backups.

RGIII doesn't have the stature to take hits from NFL defenses if he decides to run (which he likes to do a lot). He's no Cam Newton.

Spread offenses incorporate A LOT of smoke and mirrors. They are designed to produce crazy stats and accuracy numbers.

Here are just a few names of late that people ooh'd and ahhh'd over but have struggled in the NFL:

Colt Brennan, Graham Harrell, Chase Daniel, Blaine Gabbert, and Tim Tebow.

No way I would give up the haul it's gonna take to draft RGIII. If I were Cleveland, I'd force STL's hand to decide when they are on the clock. They either take RGIII or a Tackle. Then if RGIII falls to #4 perhaps I draft him there. If not, and I'm dead set on a QB, perhaps I look at Tannehill or trade back, or take another piece that I need to improve my team.

I totally need to be a GM!

I don't know who in the NFL were Oohing and Aahing over these QB's. 2 were undrafted (Harrell, Daniel), 1 went in the 6th round (Brennan), 1 was a surprise late 1st round pick (Tebow), and 1 went in the first round, but was the 3rd QB taken (Gabbart). To criticize Gabbert for struggling in his first year is a bit unfair, as he had very little to work with, and both Elway and Peyton Manning struggled in their first years. I think your criticism of RGIII because of the offense he played in is a bit unfair. He may not be everything people think he will be, but I don't think it will be because of the offense he was in.

Oh no. Gabbert is and forever will be horrible. I lived in Missouri, my wife and her family are huge Tiger fans. Watched a lot of MU football games. Gabbert is terrible regardless of his surrounding weapons.I'm not hating on RGIII. I hope he is successful. I'm just saying that, so far, it has been almost impossible for QB's from true spread offenses in college to adapt to the NFL. And in the case of a Drew Brees, it took him about 3 years before he started having success. Are there any coaches or GM's that are gonna be given that long if they draft a QB #1 or #2?

I think if Shanahan or Shurmur or Philbin give up the haul it's gonna take to get RGIII and if it takes RGIII a while to settle in, those coaches will be on their way out the door since they likely will be handicapping their team, overall, to bring in RGIII.

and anyone who did perform well was probably not in what you would call a "true" spread offense

 

[FreeBaGeL]

Curious as to which website you got your numbers from. The website I used showed totally different numbers.

I got them from espn.com. Added the team's rushing attempts + passing attempts and did the math.The issue here is that you're reading the website that you linked incorrectly. Those are NUMBER of rushing attempts per game, not PERCENTAGE of rushing attempts per game. So when it says 40.1 for Florida it means they ran the ball 40 times per game, not that they ran the ball 40% of the time. All those percentages you mentioned in other posts weren't actually percentages at all, they were rushing attempts per game.

any college that produces a STUD RB (ADP at Oklahoma, and Daniel Thomas at KSU for example) is not running a true spread offense since they are running the ball enough for the RB's to be heavily incorporated and productive. If anything, they are running "NFL style offenses". 3 WR sets are becoming the norm. But true spreads do just that...they spread the defense out with 4 or 5 WR's creating huge running lanes for the QB. Quick, name the last good RB from Florida (not named Tebow), from Purdue, Utah, Boise State, Hawaii, Texas Tech...I could go on.

This just seems like to arbitrarily eliminate examples that counter your point. For example...In Adrian Peterson's best year he ran for 1900yds and 15 TDs. In Daniel Thomas' best year he ran for 1500yds and 19 TDs. In 2008 Florida's running backs ran for 2500yds and 28 TDs. That's not counting Tebow's rushing stats.

Just because Florida used a massive RBBC with 6 guys doesn't mean they were more of a spread offense than one that used a feature back. It has no bearing on the matter. Likewise, Boise St's running backs have put up huge numbers every year (right on par with Peterson/Thomas). Just because they weren't actually as NFL talented as those guys doesn't mean that they weren't running the ball as much.

I'm not saying that those teams ran the spread like other sources have claimed because I personally never watched enough of them to know, but if we're eliminating teams from the conversation because they had a good running game or ran the ball a lot then we're eliminating most of the other teams too.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

To tie up one loose end.

The Rams will not trade Sam Bradford. This has been reported from multiple sources who have have been emphatic that Bradford will not be traded. Jim Thomas from St. Louis Today confirms this and the reasons why a Bradford trade will not happen.

My link

*STL45Fan: Hey Jim. OK' it's the 'FRINGE' alt-universe and in this one the Colts try to sign Luck to a contract before the draft but talks break down and they turn to RG3 and sign/draft him. What would the Rams do then? Trade the pick for Luck or trade Bradford to Cleveland or somewhere else for a #1 and draft Luck & Blackmon? Think about it, Luck may just be there...... yours thoughts.

Jim Thomas: Don't know how many times I have to say this: Rams are not trading Bradford. There are cap ramifications that make a Bradford trade tough to do anyway. But the Rams do not want to trade Bradford. One of the big reasons Jeff Fisher came here is because of Bradford.

Some other tidbits on St. Louis trading the second pick. Schefter has reported that the compensation will be similiar to what the Chargers got from the Giants in tne Eli Manning deal, two first round draft picks, one third round pick, and a fifth rounder. This is what the Rams could hope for in a best-case scenario:

*vanvaley1: What would be the most the Rams could expect from trading down? If there is aggressive competition for the second round position what additional 'kicker' might the Rams pick up? What would be the least they could expect for trading the 2nd round pick? van

Jim Thomas: I assume you're talking about the No. 2 overall pick.. It's all speculation at this point. It would help if there were more than one serious bidder.

I'll just say for Cleveland, a realistic trade might be the Browns #4 and #22 picks in the first round and maybe a 2nd or 3rd rounder. Remember, they're moving up only 2 spots.

For Washington, maybe the Redskins 1, 2, and third-rounders this year, and a first next year.

*Brad: In a trade with Cleveland does the 2 1st rounders they have plus a 2nd and 3rd round pick seem realistic?

Jim Thomas: A second and a third? I'd say more like a second or a third.

Bottom line compensation that the Rams should expect:Cleveland - Two first round draft picks (4 and 22 this year) and either a second OR third round pick this year.

Washington - Two first round draft picks (6 this year and ? next year), a second round pick this year, and a third round pick this year.

Reports have said that the Rams have already gotten offers but that hasn't been confirmed. I'm sure they are in discussions but Thomas says that no offers have come in yet.

*1)Whats the chances the Rams trade the 2nd pick for Cleveland for their 4/22 and a later round pick?

2) Sources say the Redskins are gonna offer there 1st,2nd and 3rd round pick and next years 1st just for the 2 slot. Is that accurate? and why in the world wouldnt the Rams take that offer?

Jim Thomas: 1.) It's obviously within the realm of personality.

2.) The "source" your referring to here is a radio station personality. . .in Philadelphia. So take that for what it's worth, although I do think such an offer would make sense.

Nothing resembling an offer has been made yet by anybody.

I was not aware but their is a connection between some of the Rams front office and wtih Washington but it will not sway the Rams from making the best deal.

*Ramaroo: Jim why would the Rams want to consider a trade for the number two pick in the draft with Washington based on " in large part because of the good relationship between team executives (Washington's Bruce Allen and Demoff) and coaches (Jeff Fisher and Washington's Mike Shanahan)." when they can possibly get a better deal with Cleveland who has two first round picks to offer? Dropping to the #6 pick with Washington versus #4 and #22 with Cleveland based on a relationship seems like cronyism instead of good business sense to improve the team.

Jim Thomas: Believe me, if the deal's better, the Rams will make the deal with Cleveland.

With all of the speculation, don't expect a deal untill the Rmas are on the clock.

*virginiatom: Do you think the Rams will trade their pick before draft day or wait until they are actually on the clock? I take it there are pros and cons to each.

Jim Thomas: I would say draft day. These things usually don't seem to get decided until right at the end.

Now WHO are the Rams looking at in this draft?They will not make a deal only to miss out on a guy that they want. No one knows for certain who they want but any deal has to work for St. Louis so they can get the player they want so the question was asked of many St. Louis Ram beat writers as to who would be the best trade partner for the Rams.

My link

QUESTION: Who do you think would be the Rams’ best trade partner if the team is willing to deal the No. 2 pick in the draft?

JIM THOMAS

I think it’s a two-team race between Cleveland at No. 4 and Washington at No. 6. The advantage with Cleveland is you’d get two first-round picks this year, and in moving down only two spots, the Rams would be assured that two of these three players were available: Justin Blackmon (wide receiver), Matt Kalil (offensive tackle) or Morris Claiborne (cornerback). As for Washington, the relationship between Bruce Allen and Kevin Demoff, and Jeff Fisher and Mike Shanahan might make a deal easier to get done. Because they respect each other and know each other so well, a lot of the gamesmanship would be minimized – they can get right down to business. The only problem picking sixth is that Blackmon, Kalil and Claiborne could all be gone by then.

BRYAN BURWELL

The most appealing trade partner would be Cleveland for two obvious reasons: the Browns own two first-round draft picks in April’s draft. The Browns are the only suitor who can put those first-round picks on the table. Everyone else would have to split their offer up with a first rounder this year and one next year

JEFF GORDON

Cleveland seems ideal, since moving down just two slots would allow the Rams to select an elite offensive tackle or wide receiver to fill one of their most glaring needs. That trade would also send QB Robert Griffin III out of the conference. The Rams could also get an additional first-round pick from the Browns in that deal and additional high-round picks either this year or next. Teams picking later in the first round would have to include impact players and/or additional draft picks of value to make something happen. We know this much: Somebody will pay an extraordinary price for this No. 2 pick.

KATHLEEN NELSON

Sorry, but there’s too many variables to pick a front-runner at this point. First, it depends on whether Peyton Manning is available and which teams are interested in his services, as opposed to a rookie. A lot of teams and sportswriters seem to have developed man crushes on Robert Griffin III after his performance at the combine, which would increase the value of the Rams’ pick at No. 2. Between now and draft day, as they travel from pro day to pro day, teams and scouts will fall in and out of love with Griffin and a few other players a couple of times. So, the value of the No. 2 pick and the teams interested in it, will change with the prevailing winds.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

The simple reason they won't trade Bradford is that Fisher said one of the reasons he took the job was because the QB was Sam Bradford.

 

[Warpig]

Just a quick tidbit I found on RGIII:

"but the Troy Smith-esque way he holds the football -- elbows out -- has led to a lower release and batted balls. The biggest question is whether Griffin's body can hold up with his play style. While RG3 is muscular, he took pounding hits at Baylor and missed significant playing time during his true sophomore season. NFL coaches instructed even a thickly-built runner like Cam Newton to avoid contact, so Griffin must adjust similarly. The workout numbers are off the charts, but I still do not consider him in Andrew Luck's "rare" category. Luck throws the football better and his feet move calmly when the pocket is closing. Griffin will not become an elite NFL quarterback because of his ability to run; it has to be with how he throws after sound footwork and decision making."

This is a quote from Josh Norris from Rotoworld.

 

[Spanky24]

Call it a feeling I have or whatever, but I see the Chiefs sneaking in and getting RG3 with the 2nd overall.

 

[coolnerd]

The simple reason they won't trade Bradford is that Fisher said one of the reasons he took the job was because the QB was Sam Bradford.

I read the first page of this thread earlier and was busy and could not make a similiar post. Even if Bradford is not RG3 or Luck (in terms of pure upside, being an OKay level QB with bunches of pieces around him gives Jeff F. a legitimate shot. The Rams should not have to do anything cute. this is one of the best one-two QB drafts in awhile.

 

[Kirby]

Trade with Cleveland, then trade Claiborne to Cincy for their firsts. End up with 17, 21, 22 and some extras. It's a deep 1st round and they aren't a player away.

 

[jurb26]

Trade with Cleveland, then trade Claiborne to Cincy for their firsts. End up with 17, 21, 22 and some extras. It's a deep 1st round and they aren't a player away.

There is no way Cinci is trading away those picks to get Claiborne IMO. They will sit and watch Jenkis fall to them and keep their other 1st.

 

[fatness]

So far, however, the quarterback-needy teams don’t seem to be in a hurry to get Griffin. They might be waiting to see what happens with Manning, Flynn and the others. They might be waiting to do their due diligence and watch Griffin throw at his pro day March 21. In the meantime, the Rams are talking and will continue to talk with potential trade partners. According to league sources, this was the trade landscape entering the weekend:

• Cleveland (No. 4 pick): The Browns are unwilling at this point to include their second first-round pick, No. 22, as part of any trade package with the Rams.

• Washington (No. 6): The Redskins appear willing to trade their first-round pick next year, as well as their No. 6 overall pick this year. But they aren’t willing to include their second-rounder this year, which isn’t acceptable to the Rams.

• Miami (No. 8): This one appears to be dead in the water, somewhere off Florida’s Gold Coast. After losing the tug-of-war for coach Jeff Fisher, the Dolphins aren’t eager to do business with the Rams — or do the Rams any favors.

• Seattle (No. 12): No chance. The last thing the Rams want to do is send RG3 to a division rival and face him twice a year. The same applies for Arizona, which picks 13th.

The Rams don’t deny there are a few “mystery” teams they’re talking to, but the two serious contenders remain Cleveland and Washington. And Washington continues to rate as the frontrunner, in part because it’s an organization that hasn’t been shy about making the big move under owner Dan Snyder.

Link

 

[fatness]

The Rams are likely looking for something along the lines of what the Giants gave the Chargers in the Eli Manning-Philip Rivers trade in 2004. That year the Giants got Manning (the No. 1 overall pick) in exchange for Rivers (the No. 4 overall pick), plus the Giants’ third-round pick that year and their first- and fifth-round picks the following year.

So if the Redskins are the team moving up, they might be able to keep this year’s second overall pick. But they’d probably have to give up this year’s first and third, and next year’s first and fifth.

Link

 

[eakfootball]

Trade with Cleveland, then trade Claiborne to Cincy for their firsts. End up with 17, 21, 22 and some extras. It's a deep 1st round and they aren't a player away.

Why would Cincy do that?

 

[jurb26]

Trade with Cleveland, then trade Claiborne to Cincy for their firsts. End up with 17, 21, 22 and some extras. It's a deep 1st round and they aren't a player away.

Why would Cincy do that?

Unless Claiborne were to miraculously fall past 10, I can't see any way Cinci trades up to get him.

 

[CalBear]

I'm not hating on RGIII. I hope he is successful. I'm just saying that, so far, it has been almost impossible for QB's from true spread offenses in college to adapt to the NFL.

This is true only if you define the term "true spread offenses" as "the offenses that unsuccessful NFL QBs were in in college." I see you're well on your way to trying to make that argument. Good luck.

 

[MAC_32]

So far, however, the quarterback-needy teams don’t seem to be in a hurry to get Griffin. They might be waiting to see what happens with Manning, Flynn and the others. They might be waiting to do their due diligence and watch Griffin throw at his pro day March 21. In the meantime, the Rams are talking and will continue to talk with potential trade partners. According to league sources, this was the trade landscape entering the weekend:

• Cleveland (No. 4 pick): The Browns are unwilling at this point to include their second first-round pick, No. 22, as part of any trade package with the Rams.

• Washington (No. 6): The Redskins appear willing to trade their first-round pick next year, as well as their No. 6 overall pick this year. But they aren’t willing to include their second-rounder this year, which isn’t acceptable to the Rams.

• Miami (No. 8): This one appears to be dead in the water, somewhere off Florida’s Gold Coast. After losing the tug-of-war for coach Jeff Fisher, the Dolphins aren’t eager to do business with the Rams — or do the Rams any favors.

• Seattle (No. 12): No chance. The last thing the Rams want to do is send RG3 to a division rival and face him twice a year. The same applies for Arizona, which picks 13th.

The Rams don’t deny there are a few “mystery” teams they’re talking to, but the two serious contenders remain Cleveland and Washington. And Washington continues to rate as the frontrunner, in part because it’s an organization that hasn’t been shy about making the big move under owner Dan Snyder.

Link

Didn't even think about that Miami-Fisher issue, at this point I'd be stunned if they don't get flynn and if they somehow don't I see them being that team taking Tannehill long before they should.I guess Washington comes down to Peyton or RG3 then. If they go Peyton I'm not sure the Rams are going to get what they want. Glad to read the Browns are holding onto their #1's, I'm fine making a move for RG3 but not at the expense of any #1's other than this year's #4

 

[runner06]

Trade with Cleveland, then trade Claiborne to Cincy for their firsts. End up with 17, 21, 22 and some extras. It's a deep 1st round and they aren't a player away.

I'm not sure that's correct. I've read/heard probably three times now that this draft is shallow in the first round i.e. you might be getting talent at 21 and 22 that some years you would be able to get in the early 2nd round to mid 2nd round. That could be false but that is what some evaluators have told the media (that there are only around 20 or so 1st round grade players in this draft).

 

[Donnybrook]

• Washington (No. 6): The Redskins appear willing to trade their first-round pick next year, as well as their No. 6 overall pick this year. But they aren't willing to include their second-rounder this year, which isn't acceptable to the Rams..

Link

Redskins could offer the same deal to the Vikings and the Vikings would possibly take it - assuming Kalil is off the board.

 

[cstu]

• Washington (No. 6): The Redskins appear willing to trade their first-round pick next year, as well as their No. 6 overall pick this year. But they aren't willing to include their second-rounder this year, which isn't acceptable to the Rams..

Link

Redskins could offer the same deal to the Vikings and the Vikings would possibly take it - assuming Kalil is off the board.

The Vikings would be foolish not to make that deal.

 

[Donnybrook]

I am watching an arena football game the NFL network. Commentators are reporting that Washington and St Louis have come to agreement on trade for the #2. Is this true?