gabriel: jim how are you doing once again thank you for this post

well jim am pissed i think all rams fans are pissed 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.

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.

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

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.

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?)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

nick: Jim,

1. Who says Jake Long or any #2 pick HAS to start? Granted you'd like an immediate impact player but he a.Immediatly solidifys the most important left and right tackle positions, b.Puts pressure on Barron to perform. and c.Is most important to help your star skill players to perform as such.

2. Don't the Rams need to extend Jackson's contract before the draft? How can you pass on McFaden, especially after his combine, without Jackson being locked up. And doing so now would give you contract leverage.

3. The kicker the Rams cut last year looked like a good potential replacement for Wilken's with or without a forced injury reirement. You never know about kickers but a record cotract with so many needs seems very odd as does Linehan's/Devany's statements that "He was at the top of our free agent list regardless of position." Really? Guess that will give us optimism and fans in the seats.

4. Rosembloom has no idea why the stadium isn't filled?
How about sending him some archive opinions and poliings from this paper? Maybe that would give him a clue.

Thanks,
Nick

Jim Thomas: 1.) That's a lot of money to spend for a guy who's on the bench, particularly on the heels of a 3-13 season and with a head coach who's squarely on the hotseat entering '08. But I think there are at least some people at Rams Park who think Long could play guard for a year or two.

2.) I think it's wiser to wait. If _ and I admit it seems to be a very remote possibility _ if you want to trade Jackson, you do not extend him. You leave it to Jackson's new team wo work the contract.

3.) Yeah, the top of our list regardless of position bothers me. The last time I heard those words uttered at Rams Park it was when the Rams signed Kim Herring.

Aaron: Any serious talks happening about Lito Sheppard? Thanks Jim

Jim Thomas: To my knowledge, the Rams have expressed initial interest. But so have about 15 other teams.

Ron: Jim, First of all thanks to you and Gordo for taking our questions, it's much appreciated. Bernie M. says that a trade is in the works but that it might not take place for a couple of weeks and that he WOULDN'T consider it earth shattering. I'm thinking maybe something like our 2nd rd. pick for Roy Williams. Your thoughts sir?

Jim Thomas: Bernie and I are on the same wavelength on the trade; I think we both have the same INTEL. But the trade we're both thinking about doesn't involve Williams. Although I'm not ruling that out. (I'm not sure about a second rounder, though. Maybe a third for Williams.)

Mike: Jeff,

Hopefully, you'll catch this. I wrote you previously about Antonio Smith of the Cards, and just found out he'd been tendered at the 1st round level, so not viable. Nevermind, and thanks.

Jim Thomas: That first-round tender is expensive ($2.017 million) as the Rams found out with Atogwe.

Gabriel to Snow: Jim, I feel the biggest signing we can make is locking up S. Jackson before we lose an elite back. Your thoughts?
Also, what is the value & length left on Orlando's contract?
Finally, rather than pay $30 mil. guaranteed to an unproven player, what are the chances we trade out? We currently have 4 of the first 100 picks, we could get 5 or 6 of the first 100. My best case scenario is swapping with another team near the top of the draft, (jets?) picking up an extra pick & taking Vernon Gholston with our new pick. What are the odds, in your opinion, that we stay at #2, & what is YOUR best case scenario? Thanks Jim, nice to have you back.

Jim Thomas: 1.) Jackson is the centerpiece of the offense. It makes all the sense in the world to lock him up.
2.) Pace has four years left on his contract:
_ '08 $5.175 million base; $8.2 million cap count
_ '09 $5.975 million base; $9 million cap count
_ '10 $7.175 million base; $7.175 million cap count
_ '11 $8.375 million base; $8.375 million cap count
(Pace's base and camp count are the same in '10 and '11 because there was no proration of signing bonus in those years.
3.) Personally, I would like the the trade theory, picking up Gholston or even Sedrick Ellis. (I'm not sure if the Rams do).

Taylor Buck: Both Longs' were impressive at the combine, with Ellis dissapointing. I was expecting Ellis to be a bit faster in the 40 and put up a minimum of 40 reps in the bench press. Jake Long looked like a legitimate LT in the NFL and Chris Long was more athletic and faster than I gave him credit for. But Gholston was a beast out there. I know he did not beat Long by a lot in the 40 but they are virtually the same weight. I was dissapointed that Long did not bench, I would like to have seen 30+ reps. The 37 Gholston put up was impressive and should help to prove that he is strong enough to go against the tackles in the NFL. So the question is, if Dorsey does not have a good pro-day, and Chris Long goes #1 to Miami, do the Rams take Gholston at the 2 spot?

Jim Thomas: Good question. I think the Rams would feel better about taking Gholston in a trade down scenario. There are also some who feel that for all of Gholston's workout numbers that he doesn't finish some plays and take some plays off.

JerseyRamFan: Hey Jim,

Quick question. Before the weekend, you reported that the Rams had a big trade in the works. One that you knew about, but weren't obligated to say. Is that still in the works? Or did the deal go south? And if it did, was it the Faneca deal that you were referring to. Besides that, things are looking gloom for the Rams in free agency, so do you think a trade is eminent?

Also, why didn't the Rams keep Bruce and trade Holt? The Rams could have got something decent from that deal and keep Ike to teach any new blood coming in via draft. JMO

Jim Thomas: Holt is about 4-5 years younger than Bruce, and even with the knee issues his production and scoring is much better than Bruce's. As I mentioned earlier, I never reported there was a "Big" trade in the works. I reported that the Rams were working on a trade that would bring the Rams a starter (but it's not a blockbuster, it may not happen, and it may take a while to develop.)

Matt: What would it take to move into the top ten of this years draft while keeping the number two pick? It seems highly unlikely, but I think the Patriots are always willing to listen to offers with their draft picks. I mean it might cost your first round pick for next year and this years third round, but would it be worth it if the Rams take Jake Long with the number two pick and a guy like Gholston with the Patriots pick they would acquire?

Jim Thomas: I don't know what it would take to get into the top ten. But Jake Long and Gholston. I like that kind of thinking.

Dave Mac: Jim,
So all the big name free agents are going to other teams and the Rams are letting all their free agents fly away too. I guess we will have the most profitable team next year, even if it does go 3-13.

Also, do you think Wilkens will stay retired or did he just want to get away from Linehan because he was benched for the last extra point in the final game that would have let him break the consecutive PAT record?

Jim Thomas: I think the Wilkins situation was all about the injury, although I'm sure Wilkins wasn't happy about that goofy decision by Linehan to go for two. Let the man get the record! But I've yet to talk to Wilkins _ he's rather media shy _ and may not get to.
As for the Rams losing all their free agents, they don't have many worth keeping.

Steve Johanson: Obviously the Rams have a number of needs in the draft, but with the departure of Isaac Bruce I would think the Rams will look for a receiver in the second or third round. However, given the fact that Brock Berlin is not the long term answer for an injury-prone Mark Bulger, do you think the Rams would consider a QB with their second round pick? Joe Flacco, for instance, probably needs a couple of years to develop but won't be available in the third round.

Jim Thomas: Linehan has all but decided to keep 3 quarterbacks next season, so he does want to find a young up-and-coming guy. Given more pressing needs at other positions, however, I don't think you look for that guy in the second or third round.

TonyDe: Thanks for the chat Jim!

I'm wondering what the Rams plan to do at Center? If the Rams get a Guard like Bell in FA, will they turn their attention to Center or is Fry an option? Incognito can play it, but he's much better at guard. Can Setterstrom play center? Trade maybe?
Thanks

Jim Thomas: As I mentioned earlier, I don't have a clue on center at the moment. It's one big question mark. I think all of those scenarios that you've mentioned, plus FA Casey Wiegmann are possibilities.

Ed: With Brandon Chillar leaving and Raonall Smith might not come back, then why would the Rams not entertain a free agent visit with Teddy Lehman or Rocky Boiman (Guys with loads of potential)?

Jim Thomas: I think Lehman just signed with somebody. Don't know about Boiman.

Tom: Hi Jim,

Thanks for your time. It seems the Rams are targeting guard as a need in free agency instead of tackle or center. Where do you think is the greater need? I really like Incognito and Setterstrom at guard, is it possible they may move either of them to center if Bell signs? Or would they possible look to play Bell at tackle to replace Barron?

Jim Thomas: I think the Rams are counting on Pace and Barron at tackle. (We'll see. Plus, they'll look for a third tackle later in free agency.)
Bell can play some tackle and has started a few for Tennessee at RT. But the Rams want him to play left guard, for about the next six years.

Stan: Jim,
Once again te hated Niners have out done the Rams in the free agent period. With the signing of Bruce they really stuck it o the franchise. Any chance that the Rams come through with something of note between now and the draft?
Are you hearing any draft day trade rumors?
Thanks goodness we are replacing the back up QB position. I love the idea of bringing Green back. Is that going to hapen?
Thanks for the time.
Stan

Jim Thomas: Green comes in Wednesday. Everyone in the Rams organization _ new and old _ has a high degree of concern about him. I'm sure there are some concerns about the concussions. I'm not sure Green's in a hurry to make up his mind.
I sure hope the Rams come up with something big between now and the draft. But there's not much left in free agency _ anywhere. It would have to be via trade, unless there's some cap casualties still coming up.

Andy: Jim,

Thanks for doing the chat! I really appreciate and enjoy your Rams coverage, and am grateful that you and Gordo take the time to give those of us without press credentials some insight on the team.

I was wondering why the Rams are pushing so hard to find a starting guard in free agency. Granted, the OL play was nothing short of horrendous last year, but we were playing with second- and third-string players almost from the first snap. I was under the impression that Setterstrom and Incognito were playing well when healthy, and that they were seen as ascending players. Do the Rams not view them as capable starters? If anything, I'd think the bigger line issues are OT (with an aging Pace barely having played in two years and Barron approaching his contract year) and C (We don't have one right now with any experience!), but those positions seem to be getting very little attention, apart from the possibility of drafting Jake Long. Am I missing something? I think Pace is incredible when he's healthy and would like to see him hold his job for a few more years, but I hardly think that can be taken for granted. Why the focus on guards?

Also, how come the Rams aren't making any effort to retain Chillar (he'll probably have signed in Arizona by the time you read this)? Again, he seems to be an ascending player who did well last year after a rough start, but the Rams don't seem to be making any attempt to keep him. Once again, I feel like I must be missing something.

Lastly, I was wondering about your take on Bruce's departure. I don't want to beat the matter to death, and I'm sure everybody's got something to say about it today, but I'd like to know how you view the Rams' choice to let him go. It really disappoints me to see the heart and soul of the franchise released (and it stings that much more to see him play his final games for our biggest rivals), but I do understand the need to get younger and clear cap space. The Reverend was still producing, though, and with Berrian off to Minnesota and Stallworth in Cleveland, I'm not sure who the Rams think they're going to get with that money that's any better than #80. What do you think?

Jim Thomas: I think they are worried about Setterstrom's and Incognito's long-term ability to stay healthy. I agree it's a gamble to put all your eggs in Pace's and Barron's basket. I don't know what happens at center. (So I guess I'm missing something, too?)
As for Chillar, the Rams have nearly $60 million tied up in Witherspoon and Tinoisamoa. They simply can't afford to go way out there on Chillar. If the market isn't substantial for Chillar, I think the Rams are hoping he bounces back to them. I don't think that happens.
I would've loved to have seen Bruce finish off his contract as a Ram. I was told he was willing to come back for $4 million (a $1 million paycut from the $5 million he was scheduled to make). Then after Bruce finishes off his contract in '08, he's a free agent, and if he signs elsewhere, the Rams don't have any blood on their hands. Sure, Bruce's skills have declined some. But as I've said a zillion times, it's fine to say you can do better at a position, but then you've got to find a replacement who is better. So far that hasn't happened.

ctramsfan: Jim, do you see the Rams having interest in the following remaining free agents: D.J. Hackett or Bryant Johnson, Casey Wiegmann, Landon Johnson, Roosevelt Colvin, and Eugene Wilson.
Thanks for your time.

Jim Thomas: I know there's some interest in Wiegmann. Not sure on any of the others.

Richard Spittlehouse: Hi Jim,

My thoughts so far, early in free agency:

1) WRs - weakened. Need to pick up a top free agent to avoid disaster here. We are VERY thin at this position after losing Bruce, Curtis and McDonald in 2 years.

2) Kicker - situation improved. Great signing of one of the top free agents on the market (and weakened a divisional rival). Hats off to Wilkins though - awesome career.

3) LBs - If Draft (who i assume will become a starter) was better than Chillar, why didn't he start all last season? Again position weakened. Plus Pisa is one injury from being done! We are thin here too.

4) DE - What is happening here?? If C Long goes first pick in the draft, do we move down for Gholston?? Carriker is not an edge rusher if we pick Dorsey! Unbelievably, our pass rush is looking worse than last year at the moment. We must have something up our sleeve??

5) QB - Are we really going to sign Trent Green who is one hit away from retirement?? Give me a break!

I know this all sounds bad and i'm not usually a doom and gloom merchant!! What are your thoughts??

Jim Thomas: My take
1) WRs _ weakened.
2) PK _ about the same. But Brown still has a lot of upside. And Wilkins only had a year or two left.
3) LB _ Culberson could end up starting. I don't think Chillar's a huge loss although it would've been nice to keep him.
4.) DE _ What is happening here? It wasn't a great FA crop. The Rams are almost boxing themselves in to get it done in the draft.
5.) QB _ Obviously, the Rams are seriously thinking about Green. This one's a little scary.

bfulton: Mr. Devaney has been quoted as saying the Rams must use the #2 overall pick in the upcoming draft on a player that can start, immediately. That makes sense to me. Any idea which players available are in that category? Do you have a personal opinion?

Jim Thomas: I think Dorsey, McFadden, Jake Long, Chris Long are all ready to start. They all have high-motors (they don't take plays off).

Brock: Coach Jim

What do I need to do to be your best player in 2008?

Thank you, Brock Johnson

Jim Thomas: Keep working hard. You looked good hitting, throwing, catching and playing shortstop on Sunday.

Mark: Hi Jim-
Howard Balzer gave a great scenario that the Rams sign Jared Allen from KC who is a franchise player. We give them this year and next years first round picks. We are then getting a proven impact player instead of hoping that our first round pick pans out.
I think this is a great plan. What are your thoughts? Would the Rams consider this scenario?

Mark

Jim Thomas: Allen's DUIs scare me.

Tim: Jim,

IMO, it seems that the only way we can compete next year is to count on our offensive line being healthy and playing up to their potential. When they are healthy, we have a very formidable line. If we put money into that line, there will not be any left for a very poor DL. Further, I don't know why CB is such a concern. With Brown, Hill, Bartell and Jonathan Wade, we can be OK----only need backups. We need to get STARTERS in areas we know we don't have talent. DL and a linebacker and WR. We know that the O-line AND the CBs when healthy can be average to above average. Two positions on the D line and the #3WR and one LB are terrible. Wouldn't it make sense to concentrate there? Thanks for your time!

Jim Thomas: At corner, I think the Rams are concerned about Fakhir Brown's long-term availability. He missed four games at the start of '07 for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Another violation could result in a year-long suspension. The pass rush, the DE position, is a huge concern. To me, so is WR. I think the Rams can find a center.

Dominic: Hello Jim:
I have no problem with the Rams releasing Bruce and Hall,but lets not stop there.If you want to change the team,release other aging veterans who helped us to 3 wins.Dante Hall,Glover and others should just be cut.Do you agree? And I prefer trading out of the 2nd slot and try and get more players whether Chris Long,Dorsey or Jake Long sitting there.To me,there really isnt that impact player in this draft so lets try and get more draft choices to get several good players.....your thoughts? And what other free agents do you think the Rams are interested in? As I write this,Jacob Bell was still in town debating between us and the Titans.
Great job as always!

Jim Thomas: I've answered most of your questions already elsewhere. I think Glover still has some value. I wonder about Dante Hall, especially if Derek Stanley has a great camp as a returner.

Mr Chip: I read that some employees at Rams Park, including a few holdover assistant coaches, are upset over the way the departure of TE coach Judd Garrett was handled. Garrett had supposedly been let go because he needed time away from football after the sudden death of his wife late last summer, but he was seen at the Combine, reportedly in search of a job. Are my Rams just an evil, comically mismanaged team or will Chip eventually turn out to be a 'good' owner? I'm not buying it yet based on what I've seen so far...

Jim Thomas: I think the Garrett situation was smelly. It's a cold business. Al Saunders comes in as offensive coordinator, wants to bring in a couple of his assistants (Shea and his son Bob). And I'm not knocking this. What coordinator would walk into a job without having at least some offensive staffers that he knows and has worked with around him? But it looks like Garrett got shoved under the bus to create a spot on the staff for Bob Saunders. And that's tough. Garrett was at the Combine looking for a job.

Jeff W: Hey Jim,

I was wondering if rams are going to address the problem at SLB and pass rushing end in the draft or maybe in FA but no one comes to mind when I think about free agent SLB. Also what are chances of them want to have Quinton Culberson start because of his strong play near the end of the season. Do you think that Jevon Kearse would be a good fit for the rams?

Jim Thomas: I think some combo of Culberson and Draft should work out OK at SLB. Maybe I'm wrong, but to me that's not a big deal. But DE to me is a huge concern. I certainly would look into Kearse.

Don: I'll ask you the same question I asked Gordo: why are Wroten & Byrd still on the roster? Do Haslett & Sauders really think they'll turn into productive players?

Jim Thomas: I don't think Haslett has given up on Wroten. I don't think Byrd will see May at Rams Park.

petey: Free agency seems to be over for the rams now...

-There is no-one at DE that would be an upgrade over even Eric moore (and the rams dont seem interested in any)

-The safety market was lean to start with and with Wilson and Williams off the market there is little more than veteran leadership (see Chavous)

-We seem to be competing for Trent Green....why, im not sure

-With briggs gone and chillar unlikely to return, there are not that many option at Linebacker (not to mention the rams dont seem interested - are they sold on Culberson?)

-At WR DJ Hackett is still there, so he might be of interest...

Overall, i cant see many people left in free agency that would actually be worth signing. Can you see any?

Also do u think that signing an O-Line player like Jacob Bell will mean the rams are less likely to take Jake Long. (There would not be a position for him to play - he cant kick over to guard any more)

Jim Thomas: No, there's not much left in free agency. And that's a little depressing. I think Jake Long could come in and play right guard, with Incognito sliding over to center. (Just a possibility.)

Todd W.: Hello Jim
Excited about the news yesterday.
What is your best guess for the Rams Offensive Line next year?

Thanks
Todd W.

Jim Thomas: LT Pace; LG Bell; C ?????; RG Incognito; RT Barron

Andy from Saint Louis: Jim,
I have been hoping the rams will at least make a little splash in the offseason do you think the Rams have a shot of obtaing lito sheppard? If not who do they have a shot in obtaining?

Jim Thomas: Yeah, I think Sheppard is still in play.

ctramsfan: Jim, I have been haering that Lito Sheppard is available in a possible trade. Do you see the Rams having any interest in trading for Sheppard?
Thanks for your time.

Jim Thomas: Yes. But there's a lot of other teams in the running too.

petey: James Hall was cut leaving no decent starter replacements on the rams roster. The rams then never chased any of the big-name FA DE. This seems to me, suggests the Rams see a target at pick 2 or 33 that can start. Are the Rams eying both Gholston and Long and will take whoever is left on the board?

Jim Thomas: It sure looks like the Rams are getting boxed in or forced to take an end in the first round.

David Tomlin: Jim, With the signing of J. Bell, where does that leave M. Setterstrom? Could he be our new center or are they looking at D. Fry as a possibility at that position? I know that everyone is looking toward this year's draft, but who do you feel could breakout from last year's draft? Lastly,do you feel that C. Wroten or D. Byrd will ever become players? Thank you for your time. D. Tomlin

Jim Thomas: I don't think Wroten or Byrd will ever become players. Too immature. Setterstrom, right now, is a backup guard, although the team also might look at him at center.

Tim: OK everyone knows that IF Chris Long falls into the Rams lap then the Rams will snatch him up in a heartbeat, but if hes gone I predict it is either going to be Dorsey Ellis or Jake Long the Rams end up with. Who would you take.I think it would make sence to take Dorsey and move Carriker to DE where I think hed be better off at(not saying he didnt do a good job at DT). I know Dorsey is and injury concern but hey look at what Arian Peterson did last year.

Jim Thomas: I'm sure the Rams would take a long-hard look at Dorsey.
I think _ think _ that Gholston may be rallying up the Rams board? Is he catching Chris Long in the Rams eyes? I'm not sure.

Damon: Hey Jim! I like how the Rams have approached this offseason so far. Replacing Wilkins and signing Bell is a good start to getting this team back into contention. To me, the Bell signing means we will be going with the best D-lineman available at two. I would rate Chris Long first, Dorsey second ( if he is healthy), and Gholston third. The second pick might be too high for Gholston though. Who do you think the Rams will take?

Jim Thomas: If he's healthy, I think the Rams would rate Dorsey first. I'm not sure if they like Long or Gholston better. But as I just mentioned in a post, I think Gholston has some supporters.

Tim: What are the Rams loooking at to replace Chillar of is Chris Draft expected to fill that spot?

Jim Thomas: Draft or Culberson.

Alan D.: Are the Rams interested in trading for CB DeAngelo Hall (Falcons) or Safety Michael Huff (Raiders) ?

Both players are on the trade block and fit a need for the Rams.

I would suggest trade Alex Barron for one of them,that opens a spot at RT for Jake Long with the #2 pick.

Jim Thomas: Corner is a greater need than safety. I wonder how Devaney feels about Hall since he was in Atlanta before coming to the Rams. I guess I should try to find out.

shanks: o.k.we have saunders, devaney, loney great! but we still have linehan.3rd and 6,8 mins left,down by 17 against the steelers on there 38 yard line and he punts!(in the inzone of course). with 3 games left! he has one fake (punt) in two years,thats it.you have to have balls in this league not peas.my guess is when the rams go 0-3 saunders will take over.what do you think jim?

Jim Thomas: I still don't think Shaw will make a change in the middle of a season.