BOB: JT: Short and sweet. In your opinion that Brown is the kind of guy who can light a fire under Incognito????

Jim Thomas: Brown says he's not really the outspoken leader type, although you'd never know it by his words at his introductory press conference. But I think he should be a good influence on Richie.

Dejan: Hi Jim from Dejan, Serbia!

First of all I want to thank you for all of your answers and expertise it's been great.Few questions for you:
1.first of all what are our next moves in FA? Who does Spagnuolo and Billy like most as our next candidates in FA?
2.Are RAms interested in Dre Bly, Jermaine Phillips (if deal with Butler goes down maybe)?
3.Is it possible for Rams to sign WR's Washington and Brandon Jones in FA? Would this signings mean an and for Holt?(HOPE NOT)
4.I know this chat is about free agency but i would like to see Rams drafting in 2nd round RB from Ohio State Beanie Wells, do you see that as possible?

Once again thanks for your answers and bye from Serbia fans!

Jim Thomas: 1.) The Rams are still working on Butler; after that they regroup and start working on the second wave.
2.) Rams do have some interest in Phillips if Butler falls through, but I don't think they have any in Bly.
3.) Washington has signed with the Titans; Jones with the 49ers. I think Holt is gone no matter what.
4.) It's doubtful Beanie Wells will be there in the second round.

sjm0229: With the Rams run defense one of the worst in the NFL, why won't we go for Kennedy from the vikes?

Jim Thomas: Kennedy?

jimmy: Hey Jim,

The Rams need to add a vet WR, with guys like Bryant Johnson, Brandon Jones, and maybe Coles off the market. Who could we be looking at?

Jim Thomas: The list is shrinking, that's for sure. Devery Henderson from the Saints could be one possibility.

Gman: The Rams need to make some very important decisions on Alex Barron. If they would look at his tape when he played LT for a year, they would see that he is better at LT than he is at RT. He is the prototypical LT, with the big frame, long arms, and good footwork necessary to play that side. In addition, he made fewer mistakes on that side, and seemed more motivated as well. I think it is a mistake to assume that a good LT should automatically be good on the right side; they are two different positions that require different attributes.
So what do you think: Is Alex Barron the LT of the future? Should they lock him up with a long-term deal now, before he gets too expensive (eg. Ron Bartell)?

Jim Thomas: I think the Rams are considering the possibility of trying Barron at LT. That of course depends on a lot of other moves, namely, do they take a tackle at No. 2 overall. Barron hasn't really progressed much in his time here. I don't think the Rams are anywhere near thinking about him as a long-term solution at RT or LT.

Gman: I keep hearing talk about moving Witherspoon to WLB, because he is undersized to play in the middle. Is that true? He's 240 lbs, which is the same weight, or slightly heavier than Jon Beason, Antonio Pierce, Mike Peterson, Paul Posluzny, Lofa Tatupu, and many other excellent starting MLBs. Tinoisamoa is the same exact size (6'1" 240 lbs) as Witherspoon. If they want to move Witherspoon because his best position is WLB, why not give Pisa a shot at the middle? Or how about Culberson?
Do you think that they have enough quality LBs on the squad already and should address other areas instead?

Jim Thomas: Listed roster weights (and heights) are often misleading. Pisa, for example, actually weighs about 220-225. I think Witherspoon is closer to 230 than 240. Culberson was a disappointment last year on the strong side, losing his starting job to Chris Draft. It's my sense that the front office wants to upgrade the linebacker position. (Out of all the LBs on the roster, Draft is probably the best suited to play MLB.)

johndeere: i know spaggs is busy,but do you get the feeling he don't like talking to reporters,or is this normal for a coach....just wondering....ty

Jim Thomas: My early read is that he's not going to be nearly as available in the offseason as any of his predecessors with the St. Louis Rams: from Brooks to Vermeil to Martz to Linehan. But we'll see.

Rams' 'Homer': Jim, got a question; How do you think Charlie Batch would do -as a back-up/"kick in the pants'?

Jim Thomas: I don't think Bulger would feel too threatened by Charlie Batch.

Dan from Honolulu: So does the Jason Brown signing (whoopee) signal the end/peak of the Rams' veteran signings? Tell you the truth, I'm not as thrilled as everyone else seems to be. Brown is a largely unproven commodity, and he's got flop written all over him in my eyes. How does the Brown signing affect the Rams' draft strategy in the first 3 or 4 rounds if anything?

Jim Thomas: I'm guessing you filed this before the Bartell signing. I'm curious, why do you think this has flop written all over it. The guy has been durable and dependable. And he was certainly well known by other teams. Baltimore offered him $6.25 million to stay; Philly, Washington, and Miami were very interested in him. We'll see what happens once the games starts, but it was an upset for the Rams to land this guy. He was widely regarded as one of the top players, regardless of position, available in the draft.
As for draft strategy, had the Rams not signed Brown (or a center), I think they might have seriously targeted the position in the second round of the draft. They now have the flexibility to look elsewhere in Round 2.

Kevin: I know that parting ways with Pace would save a good amount of cap space, but I think if we release him we force ourselves into a situation where we have to draft an OT second overall instead of going after the best player, Aaron Curry. MLB is also a need for us and I'd really like to see Curry as a ram. If we do get rid of Pace, do you see the Rams going any other direction than tackle with the pick?

Jim Thomas: That would seem to be the case. There's not a lot of options remaining in free agency at tackle. But there is a scenario where the Rams could take Curry at No. 2, and then go tackle in the second round. Under that scenario, they might switch Barron to left tackle and then start the rookie second-rounder at right tackle.

Eli: hi Jim,

thanks for your time. One question, do you think the rams will go after Lance Moore, the wide receiver from the saints. Last season he had 79 receptions for 928 yards and 10 td's!

Jim Thomas: Well, keep an eye on this one. But generally, this isn't the kind of move you jump out on early. You wait until April, near the end of the restricted free agent period, before you make this move. (Thus letting the Saints, or whatever club it might be, spend more of their money in March, etc.)

marctheram: Thanx Jim! What are the chances that the Rams will give Jeff Garcia a serious look as a FA QB pick up?

Jim Thomas: I'm not going to kiss and tell in terms of sources. But someone who's close to Garcia said over the weekend that he hadn't heard from the Rams. And someone in the building here at Rams Park said the team wasn't interested. Could that change? Possibly. Maybe Garcia is looking for a starting job. Maybe the Rams know at the this point that he's asking too much money. Maybe Shurmur didn't like him. I don't know. But in theory, it sure seemed to make a lot of sense.

bfulton: I'm confused. I hear all this talk about how salary cap prohibitive it is to trade or cut big ticket players but NE trade's two big ticker players for just a second round pick because it helps them on the cap. What's the truth?

Secondly, if not Green or Garcia, who are the Rams targeting for the back-up QB slot? Berlin?!?

As always, thanks for reporting and insight.

Jim Thomas: I'm sure the Chiefs will restructure Cassel's contract to help them cap-wise. Since Cassel was working as a franchise tag player, the one-year tender, there was no negative cap ramifications to trading him. As for Vrabel, I'm not familiar with his contract.
One name I've heard in the hallways at Rams Park is Gus Frerotte. But it could be just gossip. I've gotten no real confirmation that the Rams are seriously interested, which is why I haven't written about it in the paper or blogged it.

Ram101: Now Jim, Looks like the Center position was were the Football guys thought we needed to start, not to say that I told you so but I told you so, OT is not as bad as the middle of the line is providing they don't trade Big O, Now, you saw J Smith and Monroe at the combine do you feel after seeing them both work out that J Smith is the one closes to being NFL ready, and Have you heard anything about B J Raji being in the mix for the #2 pick?
Thanks Jim, You do a great job for us! Fact!

Jim Thomas: There are some at Rams Park who like Jason Smith better at this point, thinking that he's more physical than Monroe.
There are some at Rams Park who like Eugene Monroe better at this point, thinking that he's more athletic.
Monroe is probably more NFL ready. J. Smith is still new to the position.
As for Raji, don't rule him out as a first round pick for the Rams. It's not as if anyone in the building has told me the Rams are interested. But he's certainly a top 10 pick and the Rams do need another body at DT.

Kiefer Williams: Hi Jim,

Thanks for taking your time doing these chats.
I have a few questions for you. The first is regarding the Jason Brown press conference. Is there anywhere that I can watch it? The second would be about Fred Robbins, DT Giants. I was wondering, because I have heard he may be released, if the Rams will pursue him to stick inside on a rotation with Carriker and Ryan. Considering Spagnuolo's relationship with the Giants. Also, are there any updates on Holt or Pace? Any teams interested? I would love for Pace to restructure and return at a lesser price to open up drafting Curry with the 2nd pick, and take the best possible OT in the 2nd round. There is a rumor on the boards in the chat room that talks may have come up about a possible Bulger and the #2 pick for Cutler and the #12. I don't see this happening at all for cap reasons and many others. I heard that the Saints offered Bartell a contract, but that the Rams also have an offer up. Do you have any insight about how much either of the contracts are for? And finally, do you know about any upcoming visits the Rams have scheduled?

Thanks,

Kiefer

Jim Thomas: The Rams do want to add at DT; I don't know much about Robbins, but due to the Spagnuolo tie-in, it makes sense if he's released.
No updates on Pace and Holt; but again, I would be surprised if either player is pack.
I really don't see the fascination with Cutler. He throws a lot of interceptions.
As to the Saints and Rams contracts on Bartell see my newspaper story in today's P-D. The offers apparently were pretty similar.

timmeno: Good sign in Brown. How about moving Barron to OLT, and signing Barnes and making him a ORT. Moving Pace to Oakland for a 2rd/5rd/rb M.Bush. And Holt to CHI, for a 2rd and 4rd. and Trade down from #2 to Philly for the 21/28 and 2rd. Now we would have a backup RB and draft picks.
21.
28.
2nd rd.
2.
8.
18.
21.
3rd
2.

Jim Thomas: I know these trade scenarios are fun to consider. But it really doesn't make much sense talking about the more elaborate ones like this. Plus they take a lot of time to develop.

Nick: Jim, Dan Pompei wrote in the Chicago Tribune that Eugene Monroe will be red flagged by some NFL teams because medical testing at the NFL Combine revealed what Pompei only referred to as "knee issues." Have you heard anything more about this, and do you know if the Rams are one of the teams that are concerned about Monroe's knees? Or is this just another instance of pre-draft misinformation being put out there to try and get a guy to slip a bit?

Jim Thomas: The Rams obviously were privvy to all of the medical info at the draft. To the best of my knowledge, they are still very interested in Monroe.

BE13.DROOPY: hey jim do u think we're gona get curry in the draft i think he would make our defense better. also whats up with bartell are we going to get him back and james butler I think we should get him he already knows spags defense and would only help our defense to learn quicker final thing jason brown said he thinks our team will be better than a .500 team is he just really confident or do you think we have a chance of being that good

Jim Thomas: Right now, I think you'd have to say that Curry would be a strong consideration for the Rams in the draft. But let's see what happens with the rest of free agency leading up to the draft and how that might shape things.
As for reaching .500, I think it will take more than signing Brown, and re-signing Bartell to get there.

Ed in Vancouver: HELLO JT,

Who do you see the Lions taking w/ the 1st pick in the draft? I really believe the Lions will mess us up by taking J-Smooth Jason Smith OT Baylor. Reason being at the end of the day teams build around QB/LT/DE thus were forced to take E. Monroe.
I hope we get J-Smooth he's the cornerstone piece we need, do you agree/disagree or thoughts???

Jim Thomas: Who knows about the Lions, particularly with a new regime in there in terms of coach and front office. I'd say their three options at this point are QB, OT, and LB. Even if they take J. Smith, the Rams would still have Monroe or Curry as options.

Ed in Vancouver: HELLO JT,

Do you think Patrick Chung will be still on the board for us in the second rd??? I wonder if the Pats jump up to get him w/ the 34th pick??

Do you for see us signing 'A' DB this week~~ wink wink??? At this point I wonder if we gotta get Bartell done at his price, your thoughts???

Jim Thomas: I do think Chung will still be there.

Ed in Vancouver VCR: HEY JIMMY,

Can you find out were Wade and J. King stand in Spags vision please...thx

Jim Thomas: I think the veteran minicamp, which I believe is scheduled for early April will help Spags form an opinion. Although I'm not sure King will be cleared to practice by then.

Ed in Vancouver VCR: Hey Jimmy,

If I was playing poker vs. Billy I bet Pisa will end up being cut. Does my pair of 9's hold up???

Jim Thomas: Too early to tell.

Dave: Jim - The Brown signing was a great start! Then - nothing. I'm sure there's a lot of behind the scenes going on, but it looks like once again the Rams are not really committed to pursuing help through free agency. Shouldn't there have been other players pursued? Butler and Bartell have gotten away. What else is out there worth looking at?

Jim Thomas: Obviously, by now you know that Bartell has re-signed.

DanishRam: How would you rate the signing of Jason Brown - was it a good price or did the Rams overpay?

Jim Thomas: Sure, they overpayed. That's what happens in the first week to 10 days of free agency. But I do know this: a lot of teams were interested in the guy.

david: Jim,

I am confused by the signing of Jason Brown. How come most of the sports media establishment did not have Brown high on their radr./ For example the fre agency preview section of The Sporting News did not have Brown listed in their top 5 free agent tackles!!! Also Peter King said the Rams gave an awful lot of money to a player nobody has heard of. What are we to make of this as Rams fans?

Jim Thomas: Uh, Brown plays center not tackle.
He was highly regarded.

Roger Cromwell: Hi JT,
So far I like what I see with FA. I do hope we just trade the big contract guys and get down the road re-building for the future. My question is this, Do you think Chip would keep this team if he turned it around by putting his personal stamp on it? I for one hope he does. I used to be at the games in LA when I was a kid and still miss his dads leadership Perhaps he's a chip off the old block ! Thanks for taking or questions.

Jim Thomas: I think more success on the field would help convince Chip to continuing owning the team. But the stadium issue is real. And eventually _ not right away, but eventually _ the estate taxes could be a problem.

biggame1190: Hey JT

do you know if the Rams have looked into Sean Jones the SS from the Browns. His Stats look really good. Kinda Like OJs for the turnovers except for FF. Do you see the rams bringing this guy in as a plan B if we dont Butler signed?

Thanks

Jim Thomas: I'm not aware that the Rams have contacted Jones. But I do think he and Jermaine Phillips (Tampa Bay) are possible "Plan Bs" if the Rams don't sign Butler.

david tomlin: Jim, Thanks for taking the time to take my questions. Have you heard how D. Stanley and K. Burton are recovering from their injuries? With the signing of Brown, do you think that lowers the need to draft a OT in the first round? IF Pace is retained he would still be better than any rookie they draft. The Rams could then draft someone with the 1st pick who could make a sooner impact and draft a OT in the 2nd or 3rd round to groom. Lastly, have their been any C. Wroten sightings at Rams Park? It would be nice if the new coaches could get something from his talent. Thanks alot

Jim Thomas: Haven't heard anything on Stanley and Burton.
Brown really has no impact on what happens at tackle, because he's a center.
Wroten is still under league suspension; I don't think he gets cleared until May.

The Rookie: Thank you for your insight. Any chance the Ram go down a few spots get some picks and get BJ Raji out of Boston college?

Also what does the phrase "According to league sources" actually mean? Could this include the paperboy to Devaney or a secretary that got a free sub? An agent that is trying to get more money for his client? What do you consider a "league Source" I consider it someone that is employed by the NFL not the players or the media. Your thoughts?

Jim Thomas: "According to league sources" could be an agent; it could be a coach; it could be a league employee; it could be a scout; it could be a front office executive.
It is not a paperboy or a secretary.

vanessa stewart: will the rams make a run for ray lewis, or julius peppers 2009

Jim Thomas: Don't think so.

ljramsfan: Two Words: Tyler Thigpen. Lock 'em up!!!

I thought that he would be a good backup here in STL since they have Matt Cassel now in KC. He is mobile, exciting, and familiar with the new QB coach Dick Curl.

A lot of people knock him because his team was 2-14, but there was no evidence that was his fault.

Jim Thomas: It would have to be a trade because Thigpen isn't a free agent.

frankelsigep: Jim,

What have you heard about signing a back-up QB? Any chance it would be Chris Simms. He showed some promise before getting hurt with the Bucs and he is still young enough to be out QB of the future, when Bulger loses his nerve or gets destroyed by someone Barron forgot to block.

Jim Thomas: I think guys like Boller (Brown's gun-shy remarks notwitstanding), Losman and Simms all should be worth a look. Particularly, Boller and Losman because they have some starting experience. They could at least be guys you could play for a game or two if Bulger gets hurt while you develop a young QB (draft pick.)

lloydsugarbear: Thanks for keeping us informed Mr. Thomas and also for the Q&A's. My question is simple, do you think that maybe we can draft the kid Curry and the LB Brinkley from SC he is 6'2" and 250 plus and runs a 4.6 forty in the first two rounds. Put him in the middle and then Curry at SLB side with Spoon on the WLB, we are set at LB for years. Or do you think that is overkill on that position, I feel that this positions has been ignored for years by the Rams? You think its possible for them to get a second rounder for Pace and maybe a third rounder for Holt. Also do you think Philly would be interested in either one of them to make a trade offer to the Rams. I am a LB at heart and just want LB's on this team, remember I wanted the the Carpenter kid last year. Heck I would take the MLB from Ohio St. in the second round. I feel we need to upgrade this position period and this is a good LB class and a chance for the Rams to upgrade.

Jim Thomas: With needs at a lot of positions, drafting 2 LBs in the first two rounds could be overkill.
At this point, I think second_ or third-rounder might be high on either player.
I think Philly is looking to get younger at tackle. But if their stymied in their attempts to do so, I guess it's not out of the question that they might make a run at Pace.

dominic: Hey Jim:
The Rams did it!!! Goodbye Drew Bennett!! No more ever needs to be said about him.
1)Did the Rams make an offer to Ron Fields? If so,what is the latest?
2)Would you trade our 1st to Cleveland for their 1st and 2nd because they really really want Curry? I love him as a player,but we need more good players instead of 1.Your thoughts?
3)And since your gut tells you that Orlando is going,does this mean we draft a tackle number 1?
And there are ALOT of us out here who appreciate your efforts and honest reporting.Dont allow the few idiots to get you stop being who you are.
You gotta love Jim Thomas!

Jim Thomas: 1.) Fields signed with Denver.
2.) Sure, I'd make that deal. Curry, both OTs, Crabtree, and Raji can't all be gone by No. 5.
3.) It's looking more and more like an OT at No. 2, but again, the Rams could still take a tackle in the second round, and move Barron to LT.

L&L: What level of interest do the Rams have in Leonard Weaver?

Jim Thomas: See my blog on Around the Horns.

RamFanInCA: Hi Jim,

Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. On Friday, there were a lot of rumors floating around that Jason Brown didn't want to come here. We were hearing that he was using the Rams as leverage to get more money from Baltimore. What can you tell us about that? Where did that come from? Thanks again!

Jim Thomas: I think it was sour grapes created by those in Washington, Philly, and Baltimore because he didn't sigh here. A lot of time, teams that don't land a player will feed the media negative stuff. I don't know for a fact that this happened. But I do know for a fact thatBrown was grousing some on the plane ride to St. Louis. It was a 6 a.m. flight, and he'd gotten next to no sleep because of all the calls after midnight eastern time at the start of free agency. Plus, it was one of those so-called regional jet _ i.e. smaller than a bread box.
I also know this, by Friday night at dinner with team officials he was telling his agent _ Harold Lewis _ "I love you" because the trip went so well, he hit it off with the Rams' coaches and front office, and he realized that St. Louis was a nice fit.
If you saw him at his press conference _ both the "formal" at-the-podium part, and the "informal" off-to-the-side part _ he was definitely jacked up about playing in St. Louis.

RamFanInCA: Hi Jim,

Can you tell us if Devaney is viewing Curry as a MLB, or strictly as an OLB? I'd love to see him fit in as a MLB and slide Will over to WLB.

Jim Thomas: I think he views Curry as someone who could play anywhere at LB.

mars: JT, how do so many so-called Rams fans NOT KNOW that we re-signed Bartell?? Startling............

Jim Thomas: I think some of the questions were posted on Monday before he re-upped.

eternalramnation: JT,

Why would the Eagles make a run at Pace when they just signed Stacy Andrews?

Jim Thomas: If they lose Thomas to free agency and Runyan doesn't recover as quickly from his surgery as expected.

Mike: Does releasing Drew Bennet effectively clear some cap space for 2010 (assuming the same labor agreement is in place) by taking the hit for his signing bonus in 2009?

Jim Thomas: Sure it does. He was scheduled to count $5,450,000 against the '10 cap. Now, he counts nothing after '09.

eternalramnation: JT,

Are we looking at any DT's in free agency like Elis Wyms or Dewane Robertson?

Jim Thomas: They had interest in Cole (Green Bay) but he signed with Seattle and Fields (SF) but he signed with Denver. The Rams definitely want to add a DT somewhere along the line.

BlackNailed: What about Billy Bajema?

Jim Thomas: Hes no Boo Williams.

Mike: Hey Jim. Short questions for you. How close are we to getting Butler? If we do sign him do we slow down in the free agency market?

Jim Thomas: I don't really have a sense on how close. As any Rams fans know, dealing with the Postons is always tricky. They rarely get deals done quickly. They obviously were looking for a bigger contract than was offered in St. Louis, or he wouldn't have left town.
On the other hand, it seems clear that St. Louis would be a good fit for Butler, and it sounds like he wants to be here. If the Rams did land Butler, I think that would complete their "first wave" of free agency _ with Brown and Bartell.

Eric M.: Do you have sense of Rams' management opinion of Barron and Incognito and what do you think the probability is that they are here in 2010?

Also, if the CBA is not extended, does this affect the FA status of either player after this year?

Jim Thomas: I don't really have a sense of how they feel on both guys. (Obviously, they tendered Richie. But who knows, they may not match if he gets an outside offer, and would thus pick up a third-rounder.)
Good question on the CBA. I think if 2010 is uncapped, it takes 6 seasons (instead of the current 4) for a player to reach unrestricted free agency. If that were the case, I think Barron and Incognito (and Atogwe if he plays in '09 under the franchise tag tender, would be restricted free agents entering '10.

chaban: Thank you for your time. Hope your son is doing well at the Point.

I've written to you several times but have never had the luck to be chosen as one of your questioners. I hope this time is different.

Kiper has the Rams picking Andre Smith with the 2nd pick. Please tell me this is about as wrong as can be for all the obvious reasons.

What feeling do you get from the Rams' people you have talked to about which way they are leaning in the first round - defense or offense - or can't you tell us do to predraft posturing.

Now that we have Bartell and Brown in the fold, do you think we will get Butler? Are we still going to go after Leonard Weaver as reported? That sure would fill a couple of holes. I assume they are waiting as he is sort of a secondary type FA and also the longer they wait hopefully the cheaper he will come.

Last one, who else do you think the Rams might go after in FA besides Butler and Weaver?

Thank You.

Jim Thomas: I don't know who the Rams will pick at this point. But I know they WON'T pick Andre Smith. They weren't high on him entering the NFL Scouting Combine because of some of his issues, and obviously the Combine did nothing to help his cause with respect to the Rams.
As for Weaver, I know there's some interest by the Rams, but again, my sense is they are looking more for a hammer type FB than a blocker/runner-receiver.

dodgersrf: Hi Jim,
Any feedback on what Bulger thinks of the Rams new direction on offense? I think he will do very well with more time to throw and less time needed to throw.

Jim Thomas: Don't have any insight on Bulger. But there's a minicamp coming up in a month _ with a new head coach, the Rams get an extra one _ and we'll try to talk with him then.

ramerhead8696: Hey JT GREAT JOB you sure get me thru.


2 questions


1)If butler does sign is a fullback our next priority?



2)I heard on 101 ESPN that Oakland is interested in Pace. Wouldn't it be smarter to keep him and get what you can for Holt?


Thanks yor awsome

Jim Thomas: 1.) I don't know what the next priority is for the Rams after Butler. A lot of the known "secondary wave" guys that the Rams had at least some interest in already have signed WRs Washington (to Titans) and B. Jones (to SF); DTs Cole (to Seattle) and Fields (to Denver). A lot of the RBs are gone (Arrington, Ward, Buchhalter, Taylor, Morris).
The Rams have talked to TE Bajema of SF but he's visiting the Jets today.
2.) I have been unable to confirm any Raiders interest in Pace. Myself, I'd like to see both players stay with the Rams with some kind of restructured deals. But it sure doesn't look like it.

beast39: JT,
You have said before that the Rams are interested in free agent fb Leonard Weavor. I know he scheduled a visit with the Saints. Do you know if the Rams are planning to have Weavor visit St. Louis?

Jim Thomas: As I mentioned in my blog last night, the visit to New Orleans never took place. Weaver's agent just happens to be St. Louisan Leonard Weaver, who would love to have him with the Rams. We'll see. As of now there are no trips planned by Weaver anywhere.

desousa209: Hey Jim
Great Job this offseason. Thanks for keeping us filled in. My questions:

1. Do you think Butler will be wearing blue and gold?
2. How do you grade the Offseason moves so far?
3. Who do you think the Rams draft Crabtree, Curry, or Monroe in the 1st round?
4. Who do you like best of those three players and why?

Thanks
M. DeSousa

Jim Thomas: 1.) 60-40
2.) B+, but it's still early
3.) Gun to my head now, I say Monroe.
4.) Curry, I think he's the best prospect of the three, particularly with Crabtree's stress fracture.

ravenzevenflow: Hey Jim, with TJ Housamazilly signing with Seattle and how far could Crabtree drop in the draft?

Jim Thomas: Depending on how his surgery goes, and it's a wise move to get it done now, I don't think he drops out of the top 10.

COGzilla: Any word on leonard weaver?Hope they still have interest...could fill the blocking back role as well asa a big back #2 to jax.
Corners-Great we have bartell, but now what?Any interest in bringing back craft or manning jr?Do you think King will realistically battle for the second corner spot?

Jim Thomas: See earlier answers on Weaver.
No doubt corner is still a thin position even with Bartell back.
I think there's some interest in bringing back Craft first, and then Manning Jr. failing that.
I think it would be very optimistic to think King could compete for a second corner spot. He had 2 good weeks of training camp, that's it, before his season-ending foot injury.

4thandJuan: Hi Jim,

What was up with Spagnuolo calling up Derrick Ward? Seems like nothing came of it. Was Spags acting on his own, without Devaney and Demoff necessarily on board?

Jim Thomas: I'm sure the Devaney and Demoff knew that Spags was calling him. They all seem to be on the same page. Nothing ever came of it because I'm sure Ward wanted to go somewhere where he had a better chance of being the starter or at least sharing the workload. And even in these times, the price was kind of high for a No. 2 or even a No. 1A (more than $4 million per year).

Memphis Ram: 1) How much salary cap space is there left for the Rams after the Brown and Bartell deals?

2) Was Greco ever given a legit shot at RT last year or did the Rams see his 33" arm span and automatically label him a guard?

3) When do OTAs start?

Thanks for you time.

Jim Thomas: 1.) Don't know, but I'll find out.
2.) Not really. They just didn't think he looked quick enough on the edge during drills.
3.) Offseason conditioning program (weight lifting, running, etc.) starts March 16, or in less than 2 weeks. First minicamp is in early April. OTAs (the "lighter" practices known as organized team activities don't start until May.)

jon in kentucky: Do the rams have interest in Brian Robiskie, if not what other reciever do you see possible for the rams to draft?

Jim Thomas: Don't know, I don't have a read on the receivers at this point (in terms of Rams interest) other than the big 2 _ Crabtree and Maclin.

Billy Bob: Do you think Barron would be an effective blocker if he was moved to right guard - similar to what Dallas did with Leonard Davis? It would seem to me that he would likely cut down on the false starts if he was moved inside. In addition, if the Rams drafted a tackle at the #2 slot, and started him at right tackle, that would be a good-sized offensive line to run behind.

Jim Thomas: I don't see Barron as being bulky enough or powerful enough to play guard. Obviously Davis is a massive guy, which I think made the switch easier.

Will: Hello Jim,

1. Minus the penalty issues how would you rank Alex Barron's durability and pass/run blocking?

2. If Barron could correct his penalty problems would be be a good replacement at left-tackle when Orlando Pace rides off into the sunset and into Canton?

3. Do you think Andre Smith could drop into the Ram's arms in the second round? He never missed a game as a starter for Alabama and is considered to be brutal in the run game.

4. If Andre Smith could be picked up in the second round and Barron's penalty issues got resolved how would a future line of Barron, Bell, Brown, Incognito, Smith look on paper in respects to talent, toughness and durability.

5. Is there a high percentile chance that if Aaron Curry, another 3 year starter who did not miss a game due to injury, is there at number two we draft him-period.

Thank you for taking our questions, have a good week-Will.

Jim Thomas: 1.) I'd rate Barron high on durability and toughness. He's a better pass blocker than a run blocker, although he remains susceptible to the bull rush.
2.) I think Barron could be a decent LT. He did fairly well there in '07 replacing the injured Pace.
3.) I don't think the Rams touch Smith no matter how far he drops, although I don't think he gets to the second run. A. Smith is considered a punishing run blocker, though.
4.) I'll skip this because I don't think it's going to happen.
5.) I think he's a serious candidate, but I think OT is in play as well, and maybe WR (Crabtree, if surgery goes well) or DT (Raji).

True_STL_Gangster: The more I look at Pace's cap number ($6 million), the more I feel they are going to keep him. An above avg./good LT for one more year at $6 mil does not sound so bad (Holt IMO is gone). If the Rams elect to keep Pace, does it look like Aaron Curry is the pick at #2? As of now, what is the Rams' status with the pick? How do Holt and Pace affect the Rams draft strategy?

Thanks, Jim.

Jim Thomas: Obviously, a roster without Pace and Holt means the Rams have big needs at both positions. But what happens in the rest of free agency between now and the draft affects the picture too. If the Rams don't have Pace, and don't sign a tackle in free agency, obviously that greatly increases the probability that the team takes a tackle at No. 2 overall.

scott: Hi Jim

How would you rate Butler?

thanks

Jim Thomas: Good, not great, but certainly an upgrade over Chavous. A young ascending player who knows the defense, and who could be a steadying influence on the back seven.

Columbia_Man: Can you remember any other franchise completely turning itself around in such a short period of time?

Jim Thomas: It's pretty rare, almost unheard of, when you consider new ownership, new front office, new coaching staff, and what figures to be a lot of roster changes. But something similar is going on in KC right now, as well.

riverumbbq: Curry or Jason Smith ?

Have the Ram's targeted a back-up QB ?

Thanks.

Jim Thomas: Don't forget Monroe.
As for backup QB, I'm not sure. Who knows, maybe Garcia even gets back in the picture later on down the line, once the market settles down.

siusalukis101: what are the chances at pursuing jason taylor?

Jim Thomas: It sure seems like the Rams are going after younger players, rather than players who are closer to the end of their careers. So I'd say doubtful at this point. But who knows? This is a knew regime, and obviously I'm still getting to know them.

Rich: Good morning Jim,

Even though the Rams managed to reel in Bartell, do you see them going after another veteran CB?

I can't see the new regime banking on either Tye Hill making a rebound or Wade suddenly morphing into a reliable corner. Not to mention who knows how Justin King is going to turn out.

I figure they would be looking bringing in a guy like Jason Craft - at the very least he could give some competition for the other starting job.

Thanks again for these chats.

Jim Thomas: I don't think it's a great year for corners in the draft. I'd say it's possible after the market dies down some that they could go after someone.

rbc1: Considering how the offseason has gone, and where it is heading.... what do you see the Rams doing Draft day with the 2nd overall pick? OT? LB? WR?

Jim Thomas: It's still too early to tell. Let's wait and see how more of the free agency period shakes out.

Rams Fan In China: JT,
Thanks for continuing these chats during the offseason. My question has to do with NFL overtime. It seems that there has been some chatter the last few months about the NFL reviewing sudden death overtime. All the proposals I've heard seem way too complicated, i.e. a system like the NCAA where each team gets the ball in the red zone, or the overtime ending with the first team to score a touchdown, etc.

I'm kind of a purist, and I don't like the idea of changing the fundamental way the game is played for overtime. How about this instead: No more overtimes in regular season NFL games. Regular season games that are tied at the end of regulation end as a tie. During the playoffs, the overtime period is not sudden death, and games that are tied at the end of overtime continue with full overtime periods until a period ends with one team ahead.

I think this is reasonable, without resorting to some kind of convoluted changing of the rules just for overtime (exhibit A= the NHL). The player's association will like it because the players will play fewer total minutes if there is no regular season overtime. The NFL will like it because overtime playoff games will be instantly memorable (just imagine the NFL films narration of a six quarter playoff game!) TV networks will like it because they won't have overtimes cutting up their evening programming schedule. Ties during the regular season have the added bonus of making the playoff picture more interesting (just ask the Eagles).

What do you think?

Jim Thomas: I'd like to see the current system, with just one tweak. If the team that receives the kickoff scores on the first possession of OT, the other team gets one possession to try to score. Call it "nearly sudden death" OT.
I don't see why you should be penalized for losing the coin toss.
I suspect this will once again be a topic of discussion at the NFL owners meetings at the end of this month.

scott-duncan3008: I notice we are interested in another TE. I thought Fells was outstanding last year. Great hands and yardage after the catch, fairly fast. Why does he not get the "love" of the coaching staff? He seems like he could be a star in the making.
Also, who do you think has the edge so far in being our kick and punt returner and did we retain our special teams coach from last year? Why fix something or one of the only things that was not broken? I thought they showed huge improvement last year.

Jim Thomas: Fells showed some potential, no doubt, particularly as a pass catcher. But he was still very raw. And I would say only marginal as a blocker.
I think it's too early to know for sure on return men.
And although Al Roberts was a fine gentleman I don't think the special teams were very good last year. They ranked 22nd in punt coverage, 32nd in kickoff coverage; 21st in punt returns and 22nd in kickoff returns.

Dell: Couple of questions - As far as a back up QB shouldn't the RAMS being go after Leftwich? He still is a good QB and can provide the Rams with some insurance just incase Bulger isn't playing upto quality level. Leftwich could step in or atleast push Bulger to perform better.

Also has the new coach spoken to Holt or Pace? With all the rumors about dropping them, can't both sides come to some kind of agreement to restructure there contracts. You would think that these two guys are more concerned with winning than money, if they are paying attention to all of the improvements that the Rams organization is trying to do. What's the chances that we keep atleast one of these guys? I'll admit its hard to get a good LT so they may have to pay Pace what he wants, but Holt really should restructure his contract to benefit the Rams so they can get him some help. If neither one of these guys don't do this, they have lost my respect as a fan.

Jim Thomas: Don't know about any interest in Leftwich.
I'm not aware that Spags has talked to Holt and/or Pace, but I'm not sure he's talked to many players yet.
I still think both players are gone. But with the cap unexpectedly going up $4 million two days before the start of free agency, I think the Rams could afford to keep one of the two.

mike barttelbort: 1. Will Claude Wroten be in camp with the Rams?

2. I like Leroy Hill better then Piso, would we be better off?

3. I am leaning towards Curry in the First, Andre Smith may make himself available in round 2 the way he is dropping,
4. I think the Rams will take Chase Daniels in the 5th if he's still there.

Jim Thomas: 1.) Don't hold your breath.
2.) Hill was franchised.
3.) Right now, I'd say it's Curry or an OT.
4.) Don't hold your breath.

Franklin: Oh Jim,

What are the job prospects like for Brett Romberg and Nick Leckey? Assuming that we won't hear Romberg's "Big Ugly" radio report on local stations this coming fall?

It's me,
Franklin!

Jim Thomas: I think Leckey and Romberg possible could be backups somewhere. Who knows, maybe one of them re-signs here as a low-contract backup.

Todd from Michigan: Hi Jim and great job with the free agency news, and thank you.
Jim I was wondering about the FB position I know you said some were devided on Weaver but is there any interest in Jon Kuhn from Green Bay. I know Weaver is the better runner and reciever but I think Kuhn is the better lead blocker and is that what the Rams are looking for.

Jim Thomas: Kuhn is restricted, although there is no draft pick compensation if the Packers choose not to match. Normally teams wait until later in the free agency period to make a move on RFAs. So we'll see.

Todd from Michigan: Hi Jim very happy and lucky to have you as our beat writer. So thank you.
Jim any interest in WR Michael Jenkins from Atlanta.

Jim Thomas: I though Jenkins re-signed with Falcons last November, I believe.

Cards4520: Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions.

1.) How would you rate (on a grading scale) our secondary if were to sign Butler? If we draft Curry, (also we get Butler) how would you rate our defense as a whole?

2.) Who are they looking to fill the Fullback position? (hopefully not Brian Leonard)

3.) Do Pace or Holt even want to stay here for the tranistional phase?

Jim Thomas: 1.) I'd say C+. They need another corner. Or two.
1A.) I'd say B- (this is assuming Butler signs as well). They need another corner or two, plus a run-stuffing DT.
2.) I've mentioned Weaver, Evans, and T. Smith. But Corey McIntyre (Buffalo) is another possibility.
3.) That's debatable. We all know Holt wasn't very happy last season.

cardsnumber7: Hi Jim,
Could you please predict our starting Oline for this season? with or without Pace?

Where does Greco fit into all this?

Thanks
Todd W.

Jim Thomas: Sorry, it's just too early to tell.

Superram13: Jim, What are the chances the Rams could surprise everyone and grab Malcomb Jenkins with their first pick?

Jim Thomas: Well, he ran a very slow time (for a corner) at the Combine, and I don't think you take a safety that high unless you think he's the next Ronnie Lott.

safaribill: Any chance Rams trade Holt to Giants for a D Lineman?

Jim Thomas: Hmmm. The Giants do seem to have a bunch of them, don't they?

gnykin2: JT, your blogs are music to my eyes. Love the constant heads up. Any chance Jacob Bell turns into the above-avg guard we though we were getting, or do the people at Rams park (yourself included) think that is probably wishful thinking? I think he does need to add a little weight.

Jim Thomas: I think it's way too early to call him a bust. The coaches feel he played better down the stretch.

Paul: Jim,
Anything new on James Butler? Are Rams still talking with him or his reps?
Would Leonard Weaver be a good fit for the Rams?

Jim Thomas: No news on Butler. But they're still talking. I'm going to get off this chat now, so I can make some phone calls. I do think Weaver would be a good fit, an excellent fit, but I don't get a vote at Rams Park.
Tons of questions today. I answered as many as I could. See you next time.