Buzz: Jim,
Like many others, I am sceptical about the current linebacker alignment. I think we could live with Draft in the middle, except I think Pisa is too small to hold up on the strong side. Suppose we draft a MLB who is able to start at some point in the season. In your opinion, does Draft then supplant Pisa as starter on the strong side? I figure by then, Pisa will have filled the wrong hole enough times to be in the doghouse with his coaches, anyway. Is there any way I'm wrong about this? Thanks.

Jim Thomas: Say the Rams' draft Curry. They could have Draft compete with Pisa for the other outside job. And for one season anyone, what would be wrong with having four starter-quality LBs in Witherspoon, Curry, Tinoisamoa, and Draft.

tonyde: Thanks for the chat Jim. Do you think if the Rams draft an OT at #2 there's any way they trade Barron? I just dont think having two finesse OT's fits into what they are talking about on offense. I've seen enough of Barron at RT to conclude he has neither the will nor the power to run block. To me he's a one year player, because I dont know how you can give him the big contract it will likely take to sign him in 09. Thanks

Jim Thomas: Interesting question because Monroe might be viewed as more of a finesse, pass blocking type. But I don't think the Rams can afford to trade Barron unless it's for another tackle, simply because their numbers are so low at that position.

donsods: Jim--Last year, Devaney was new and had both Linehan & Ziggy around. This year he is fully the GM and has Spags as HC. Do you see a difference in approach? Do you see better results?

Jim Thomas: So far _ and I underline so far _ the chemistry seems to be great between Devaney, Spags, and Demoff. And it looks like unlike past years, Devaney will have the biggest say in the draft _ as opposed to the head coach. More credence will be put in what the scouts say.

R @ / / !: Hey JT

1. Have you heard more about dealing #2 for 2 first rounders? if yes were the Broncos involved?
2. Do know whether the Rams have intrest in a veteran WR Amani Toomer?
3. Are they trying to negotiate with Atogwe still or has it stopped for the time bieng?
4. Is it possible the Rams to draft a RB as early as in rounds 2-4 if most pressing needs are filled?

Thanks for your time JT!

Jim Thomas: 1.) Have not heard anything here.
2.) I'm told, no.
3.) I think it's on hold for a while.
4.) That's the big question. Trouble is there are a lot of pressing needs _ OT, WR, DT, LB, even CB. Where do you take an RB?

GreatestShowOnTurf99: Shouldn't the Rams consider going for Curry with their 2nd pick and then going with an OT in round 2 like Beatty? There's more of a drop off of talent with the LB corps than there is with the Offensive Tackles

Jim Thomas: If you read my newspaper story for Wednesday on Monroe and J. Smith, you'll probably feel even more strongly that Curry is the way to go.