John in socal: Jim, Been a Ram fan for over 50yrs and would like to commend you and your paper for the coverage you give the team and the people who write in on this forum for their passion. My thoughts on the draft are with no proven tackles other than Barron, and he on the final year of his contract, we're almost forced to go Offensive tackle with the 2nd pick. Your thoughts?

Jim Thomas: To me, logic says tackle as well. The only thing that might change that is if the Rams are able to sign someone in what remains of free agency _ and from my earlier post you see there's not much left at tackle. Under that scenario, you could possible take an LB or WR at No. 2 overall, and then take a tackle in the second round.

Chen: Who do you see as the starting CB next to Bartell? Any news on Hill and/or King? How's their offseason progress and do you see King starting over Hill? Thanks!

Chen

Jim Thomas: I don't know for sure, but I think the Rams would like it to be Hill. King is coming along fine at last check, although I haven't checked on him lately. It would be a stretch right now to think that King could beat out Hill, even in Hill's current state. Remember, any optimism on King is based on just two weeks of training camp last season.

ljramsfan: Jim,

I have heard that the Billy D does not want Bulger to compete with anyone and that is why they have signed a backup QB. Is this true? They must have a lot of confidence in Berlin in case Bulger goes down.

Second question. Do you think they will put a Brett Favre trade for like one of the Qbs from another team like GB's Brohm or Beck from Miami, or heck, Ratliff from the NYJ

Jim Thomas: Well, I think that's the only conclusion you can draw if the Rams do indeed sign Frerotte as the No. 2. And if they sign Frerotte, I think that eliminates any trade possibilities. I myself will be very interested to see if the Rams draft a QB.

boiseramfan: I really don't know why but I would like to see Claude at least get a chance to come in and compete for a roster spot and see how he handles himself with this staff. One mistake and he is out but at least give him a shot. What do you think

Jim Thomas: No way. That draft pick has gone up in smoke long ago.

RAMbunctious: Hi Jim, thanks once again for the chat. Thanks also for letting us know that it appears the Rams will hold training camp in the St. Louis area for the upcoming season. I'm just curious to know if you can tell us approximately when the team announces the dates for the camp each year. A few of us up here in NY are planning on coming into town for camp and want to get our trip all lined up as soon as possible. Take care and thanks!

Jim Thomas: I think we're a ways away from having the camp dates. All I can say is stay tuned.