Jim Thomas Live
Rams writer Bill Coats subs for Jim Thomas this week and goes one-on-one with readers at 1 p.m. Tuesday in a live chat.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009 01:00 PM CDT
NewAgeRam09: Reggie,
What is Keith Null's chance at being QB #2 by the time the season starts?
Thanks, Jim
What is Keith Null's chance at being QB #2 by the time the season starts?
Thanks, Jim
Jim Thomas: Basically, none. Barring injury or a very surprising development, Kyle Boller will back up Marc Bulger. Null has a good chance of winding up as the No. 3 QB, though.
KY Ram: hey jim. just curious, what do you think of culberson playing outside linebacker filling in for pisa. i believe the kid has potential, young and talented with decent size. whats your take? thanks
Jim Thomas: Culberson had a nice rookie season, then declined a bit last year. Pisa is small for a strongside LB, so Culberson will get a look during the preseason. Don't count Pisa out, though. He's a battler.
tim: Hi Bill,
Do you know the reason for the Rams picking Jason Smith over Eugene Monroe? I believe QB Keith Null would have been available in the 7th round and would rather them at least taken Long Snapper Jake Ingram. And I read that the 7th round pick Chris Ogbonnaya was taken as favor to a Texas coach, is that true? They were called by a Texas coach to take him.
Do you know the reason for the Rams picking Jason Smith over Eugene Monroe? I believe QB Keith Null would have been available in the 7th round and would rather them at least taken Long Snapper Jake Ingram. And I read that the 7th round pick Chris Ogbonnaya was taken as favor to a Texas coach, is that true? They were called by a Texas coach to take him.
Jim Thomas: Smith and Monroe were very close on the Rams' draft board. I think 1)Smith blew them away in his interviews, and 2) there was some concern over a previous injury with Monroe.
As for Ogbonnaya, I don't think that scenario is very likely. Teams don't just draft players as a favor to somebody. There's too much riding on it.
As for Ogbonnaya, I don't think that scenario is very likely. Teams don't just draft players as a favor to somebody. There's too much riding on it.
virginiatom: There has been talk that it was off the field issues that concerned the Rams not taking Malugua at linebacker in the second round, even though they had him rated as the top linbebacker in the draft. What kind of issues would lead them to pass on an impact player that is solid against the run? I didn't hear these concerns raised anywhere else at any point durinig the draft.
Jim Thomas: Maualuga's issues were well known throughout the league. There also was concern about his coverage skills, especially in a 4-3 defense like the Rams run.
Ruben: Bill,
Thanks for taking my question. It is understandable that the Rams want to work Smith in slowly. But, when do you think he will start taking reps with the first team, OTA's, June Mini-Camp, training camp? I think the sooner they figure out their starting 5 on the OL, the better. OL is as much about playing together, as it is about personnel. Time to get our 1st rounder playing either LT or RT with the first unit. What do you think?
Thanks for taking my question. It is understandable that the Rams want to work Smith in slowly. But, when do you think he will start taking reps with the first team, OTA's, June Mini-Camp, training camp? I think the sooner they figure out their starting 5 on the OL, the better. OL is as much about playing together, as it is about personnel. Time to get our 1st rounder playing either LT or RT with the first unit. What do you think?
Jim Thomas: Rest assured, Smith will be a starter this year, probably at RT unless Barron flops at LT. They might not start working him with the ones till training camp, but he'll still have plenty of time to adapt before the season starts.
donsods: Bill--Lots of info on how WR, rookies and skill players looked at mini-camp. I am a guy who feels that football is won or lost in the trenches. How did the O-Line and D-Line guys look? Any stand-outs or surprises?
Jim Thomas: It's hard to tell much about line play when the players are in shorts and shells. But the revamped offensive line is promising. The Rams are pleased that Bell reported at close to 300. They're very high on Jason Brown at center, and so far the shift of Barron to LT is going OK. A couple of UDFAs, G Roger Allen of Missouri Western and Phil Trautwein of Florida might have a chance to stick.
On the d-line, not much new to report. Chris Long seemed more relaxed and should be better with his rookie year behind him. I didn't get much of a look at draftee Darell Scott. The Rams would like someone to emerge among the other newcomers. Rookie Ian Campbell showed some flash.
On the d-line, not much new to report. Chris Long seemed more relaxed and should be better with his rookie year behind him. I didn't get much of a look at draftee Darell Scott. The Rams would like someone to emerge among the other newcomers. Rookie Ian Campbell showed some flash.
Gabriel Fan: Hi Bill, Thanks for filling in this week.
Couple questions for you:
1. I was wondering if undrafted free agent Quentin Chaney (WR/Oklahoma) was at mini camp this past weekend? If yes, what number was he wearing? If no, why not?
2. Would it be fair to compare Chris Long with Jack Youngblood at this same point in his career? Also, do you feel they have the same type skills.
Thanks, again.
Couple questions for you:
1. I was wondering if undrafted free agent Quentin Chaney (WR/Oklahoma) was at mini camp this past weekend? If yes, what number was he wearing? If no, why not?
2. Would it be fair to compare Chris Long with Jack Youngblood at this same point in his career? Also, do you feel they have the same type skills.
Thanks, again.
Jim Thomas: 1. Chaney failed his physical and didn't participate at minicamp.
2. No, it would not be fair to compare Long with Youngblood at this point. Long will be a fine player, but he's no Youngblood.
2. No, it would not be fair to compare Long with Youngblood at this point. Long will be a fine player, but he's no Youngblood.
Rambel66: Jim,
Just curious, what sort of agreement is in place between the NFL and the rookie players to allow them to participate in the mini-camps before any of them (except maybe Stafford) have signed contracts? Are they covered in-case they suffer a severe injury?
Thanks,
Brad
Just curious, what sort of agreement is in place between the NFL and the rookie players to allow them to participate in the mini-camps before any of them (except maybe Stafford) have signed contracts? Are they covered in-case they suffer a severe injury?
Thanks,
Brad
Jim Thomas: I believe they sign some kind of a waiver, but I'm not sure about the details. I know that neither the team nor the league would let them on the field without some sort of agreement about liability.
James: Jim -
Thanks for taking the time to do these chats. My question is basically just a spelling test. I've seen our new fourth-round draft pick Scott's first name spelled Dorell and Darell. The Rams official site says Darell, but when i Google him I see that it's spelled Dorell by Clemson! What gives??? Any ideas?
Thanks for taking the time to do these chats. My question is basically just a spelling test. I've seen our new fourth-round draft pick Scott's first name spelled Dorell and Darell. The Rams official site says Darell, but when i Google him I see that it's spelled Dorell by Clemson! What gives??? Any ideas?
Jim Thomas: It's Darell, and that's straight from his mouth. He said Clemson initially misspelled his name and somehow it never got changed in their material.
Alex Alvidrez: Since the 49ers drafted Crabtree, do you think they will let go of the Reverend and he's the veteren receiver the Rams are waiing for???????
Jim Thomas: I think that's a very unlikely scenario.
Brian81277: If this group of receivers steps up and plays well, I can see the Rams offense being really good as long as the rest of the offense stays healthy. Why are their so many experts that think the Rams will be the worst team in the NFL this year? The Rams are two years removed from an 8-8 season and were also thought as a playoff contender. What is so different? I understand two seasons in a row with the number 2 pick will change attitudes of everyone, but Bulger has played well in stretches where Jackson ran the ball well. He has a beefed up O-Line and young talented receivers. The defense has a new scheme and has some real play makers. Am I the only one that believes the Rams could be as good as 10-6 next year and no worse than 6-10?
Jim Thomas: I did the Rams preview for Athlon magazine and forecast a 7-9 record. I, too, think the Rams have more talent than has been shown the last couple of years, and Spagnuolo just might be the right guy to exploit that. However . . . it's not easy to overcome a losing culture. If things start heading downhill early (injuries, distractions, losses), it could get ugly again.
RamsfaninVA: Hey Jim thanks for talking to us
a couple questions about the wide outs
1. How is Laurent Robinson figure to fit in this year as probably a second or third wide-out?
2. Will Derek Stanley do more then just special teams duties or will shurmur try incorporating him in the offense?
3. Finally is there any talk going around about the Rams picking up a veteran reciever to bring along the young guys?
Thanks again
P.s - proud to be one of like ten rams fans in virginia
GO RAMS!
a couple questions about the wide outs
1. How is Laurent Robinson figure to fit in this year as probably a second or third wide-out?
2. Will Derek Stanley do more then just special teams duties or will shurmur try incorporating him in the offense?
3. Finally is there any talk going around about the Rams picking up a veteran reciever to bring along the young guys?
Thanks again
P.s - proud to be one of like ten rams fans in virginia
GO RAMS!
Jim Thomas: 1. Robinson probably will wind up as the No. 3 WR, behind Avery and Burton. After a rough first practice at minicamp, Robinson looked very solid.
2. Stanley also will figure into the WR mix in some capacity.
3. Yes, the Rams would like to pick up a vet WR, but who? Spags apparently isn't interested in former Giants Toomer and Hilliard. Maybe Tim Carter, who was at minicamp on a tryout basis, is that guy. He looked pretty good.
2. Stanley also will figure into the WR mix in some capacity.
3. Yes, the Rams would like to pick up a vet WR, but who? Spags apparently isn't interested in former Giants Toomer and Hilliard. Maybe Tim Carter, who was at minicamp on a tryout basis, is that guy. He looked pretty good.
R @ / / !: I give the Rams draft an B+ so far and I like JL will he start and are the rams still trying to sign atogwe to a long term contract?
Jim Thomas: I expect Laurinaitis to be the MLB on opening day. Yes, the Rams still are seeking a long-term deal with Atogwe.
rajasrams: Hi Bill,
Who is the likely winner between Fletcher, King, and Hill for the #2 spot? Does teh fact Fletcher's size and demeanor better fits Spags' system influence the outcome any? Hill seems to be the wrong type of corner for his system.
Who is the likely winner between Fletcher, King, and Hill for the #2 spot? Does teh fact Fletcher's size and demeanor better fits Spags' system influence the outcome any? Hill seems to be the wrong type of corner for his system.
Jim Thomas: The fight for the second CB starting spot should be one of the highlights of training camp. Hill is getting the early shot, but he didn't have a very good minicamp and still seems to be affected by his knee injury from last season. King is still an unknown. Fletcher looked pretty good at minicamp, and he does have the size the Rams need.
TonyB: Knowing full well you can't judge for certain for at least a full season, where do you come down, personally, on the Laurinitis v Maualuga debate? I feel like he has Brian Urlacher qualities IF and only IF we put some high value bodies in front of him at DT, and so I expect him to struggle until that happens. I think we'll be forced to look hard at a big DT in the first round next year because Carriker and Ryan are not going to keep blockers off of him.
Jim Thomas: I'm impressed with Laurinaitis, both on the field and off. He's smart and quick, and he's full of confidence without being cocky in any way.
The Rams would love to find a big DT to help plug up the middle. Clifton Ryan has made nice progress, but Carriker has been somewhat of a disappointment. Too early to tell on Darell Scott.
The Rams would love to find a big DT to help plug up the middle. Clifton Ryan has made nice progress, but Carriker has been somewhat of a disappointment. Too early to tell on Darell Scott.
rajasrams: What weight do they want Bell at? He's up to 295, but what are the odds he's up to 315-330 by season's beginning?
Jim Thomas: I have a piece on Bell that's running in Wednesday's paper that you should find interesting. He wants to play at about 300. The Rams are very pleased with his new look. He could really be a big -- no pun intended -- part of an improved o-line, which is vital if the Rams are to compete in the NFC West.
signed s. j.: Bill,
Who do you think will end up being the fourth DT,or will it be a combo of
the DE moving over in certain situations ?
Who do you think will end up being the fourth DT,or will it be a combo of
the DE moving over in certain situations ?
Jim Thomas: Unless he falls flat during trainng camp, Darell Scott will be part of the rotation. DE Victor Adeyanju has been effective when moved inside. The Rams also are hoping someone will emerge -- perhaps Gary Gibson, a free-agent pick just before last weekend's minicamp or UDFA Ian Campbell.
harry: Hi Bill thanks for standing in for Jim.
Been a Rams fan here in Northern Ireland since 1984 and even managed to put on the pads for a few years here playing local football. You may be aware that it rains quite a bit here in Ireland which got me thinking about the Rams practise sessions. A lot of the Rams games will be played outdoors when on the road and maybe quite a few in adverse weather conditions, so I wonder when I here phrases like 'rain forced the Rams practise indoors. Do the Rams ever practice playing in adverse/rain conditions and if not why not?
Been a Rams fan here in Northern Ireland since 1984 and even managed to put on the pads for a few years here playing local football. You may be aware that it rains quite a bit here in Ireland which got me thinking about the Rams practise sessions. A lot of the Rams games will be played outdoors when on the road and maybe quite a few in adverse weather conditions, so I wonder when I here phrases like 'rain forced the Rams practise indoors. Do the Rams ever practice playing in adverse/rain conditions and if not why not?
Jim Thomas: That's kind of depended on the coach. Martz, for example, rarely held practices outside once the weather turned colder. Linehan liked to practice in crummy weather, as did Haslett. Spags seems to be that way, too. But you have to be careful. A slick surface can lead to injuries.
Four of the five minicamp practices this past weekend were outside, including one in a drizzle. They went indoors once, when it was pouring.
Four of the five minicamp practices this past weekend were outside, including one in a drizzle. They went indoors once, when it was pouring.
Armen Dacity: Hey Bill,
Which of the following do you think is most likely to happen:
1. Rams sign Amani Toomer
2. Rams sign Napoleon Harris
3. Rams sign O.J. Atogwe to long-term deal
Which of the following do you think is most likely to happen:
1. Rams sign Amani Toomer
2. Rams sign Napoleon Harris
3. Rams sign O.J. Atogwe to long-term deal
Jim Thomas: No. 3.
Chris: Has Coach addressed Tinoisamoa? He seems very small to play strongside. I realize that we play right and left linebackers more than WIL and SAM, but with Witherspoon and Pisa we are still pretty light at linebacker in terms of weight.
Secondly, will the fourth tackle offensively and defensively come from undrafted free agents or are they planning to bring some vets in to compete for those spots?
Finally, any update on Jason Craft?
Secondly, will the fourth tackle offensively and defensively come from undrafted free agents or are they planning to bring some vets in to compete for those spots?
Finally, any update on Jason Craft?
Jim Thomas: 1. Witherspoon's size (6-1, 240) is OK for an outside LB. Pisa is not the ideal size for a SLB, you're right. But he's a ferocious competitor and a strong presence in the huddle. Chris Draft could figure into the mix, too.
2. Answered previously.
3. No update on Craft, but he's on their radar.
2. Answered previously.
3. No update on Craft, but he's on their radar.
Steve B.: Bill:
Thanks for pinch hitting for Jim. It seems to me that the success of the recent draft hinges largely on the performence of Laurinaitis and Fletcher, who were drafted high enough to make contributions quickly. Both of these picks were controversial. A lot of folks wanted Maualuga instead of Laurinaitis, and some of my buddies are convinced Fletcher was a major reach. What were your impressions of these guys at the minicamp? I realize that one minicamp is an awfully thin resume, but right now it is all we have.
Thanks.
Thanks for pinch hitting for Jim. It seems to me that the success of the recent draft hinges largely on the performence of Laurinaitis and Fletcher, who were drafted high enough to make contributions quickly. Both of these picks were controversial. A lot of folks wanted Maualuga instead of Laurinaitis, and some of my buddies are convinced Fletcher was a major reach. What were your impressions of these guys at the minicamp? I realize that one minicamp is an awfully thin resume, but right now it is all we have.
Thanks.
Jim Thomas: I liked what I saw from both Laurinaitis and Fletcher during minicamp, although you're right, it's hard to tell much in that kind of setting. Laurinaitis will earn a starting spot, IMO. Fletcher is raw, but his skills are noticeable -- as well as his size, which Spags loves.
Don McCoy: Hey Bill,
First off thanks for taking the time to read(and at least attempt) to answer all of these comments. Much appreciated!
Ive been wondering as of late as to what the Rams plan on doing at RB? Im assuming Leonard and Pittman will be here? Along with newly drafted Chris Ogbannaya(mouth full). But who is the leading candidate to get the all important backup role to S Jax? We all know S Jax has been "oft-injured" the last few years. So the backup role is very important. Kinda wondering why the Rams didnt get a peerman or something a round or two earlier?
So, in short, who will the backup RB be opening day and just how good is this Ogbannaya?
Thanks, Don
First off thanks for taking the time to read(and at least attempt) to answer all of these comments. Much appreciated!
Ive been wondering as of late as to what the Rams plan on doing at RB? Im assuming Leonard and Pittman will be here? Along with newly drafted Chris Ogbannaya(mouth full). But who is the leading candidate to get the all important backup role to S Jax? We all know S Jax has been "oft-injured" the last few years. So the backup role is very important. Kinda wondering why the Rams didnt get a peerman or something a round or two earlier?
So, in short, who will the backup RB be opening day and just how good is this Ogbannaya?
Thanks, Don
Jim Thomas: This will be another interesting training camp competition. Kenneth Darby is a good No. 3 back, but probably not big enough to be the No. 2. Pittman was just OK in that role. Don't dismiss Leonard, who is a battler, or Samkon Gado, either. Ogbonnaya will get lots of work in the preseason. And I wouldn't be surprised if another RB joins the roster before training camp.
Buzz: Bill,
What with the Rams being short on depth at wr, I would like to know more about undrafted wr Jarrett Byers. About all I know is that he played at a small school, is on the short side, and seems to have good stopwatch speed. Do you know what kind of numbers he put up in college? Did he look fast at minicamp? Did he make any plays? Thanks.
What with the Rams being short on depth at wr, I would like to know more about undrafted wr Jarrett Byers. About all I know is that he played at a small school, is on the short side, and seems to have good stopwatch speed. Do you know what kind of numbers he put up in college? Did he look fast at minicamp? Did he make any plays? Thanks.
Jim Thomas: Byers looked decent. Didn't produce any "oh, wow" moments, but also didn't have any drops that I saw. He's quick. Don't know about his college numbers. Might have a shot at the practice squad, but it's way too early to tell for sure.
Mike: Hey Billl, How long do you think it will take for the rams to sign there rookies?
Jim Thomas: As is usually the case, it'll probably be mid-July before most of the draft picks are signed. It's become a waiting game for the agents these days.
Nick Rolando: JT, appreciate the chats as always. Was reading Peter King's MMQB and he said that Stan Kroenke relinquished control over the Rams to Chip and Lucia. As I recall Stan never had control correct? He owns about 40% and heard that he might be interested in taking over not vice versa?
Jim Thomas: Nothing has changed re Kroenke's ownership situation. Not sure what Peter was referencing.
John: 3 questions about the O-line Bill.
1. Who do you think our starting right guard will be this year? Incognito or Grecco?
2. Does Shuenig have a guaranteed roster spot? I never heard much about him last year, and Im wondering if either of the undrafted guys could outplay him and earn a spot for themselves.
3. Setterstrom looked good 2 years ago, at full health, where do you put him on the depth chart?
Thanks.
1. Who do you think our starting right guard will be this year? Incognito or Grecco?
2. Does Shuenig have a guaranteed roster spot? I never heard much about him last year, and Im wondering if either of the undrafted guys could outplay him and earn a spot for themselves.
3. Setterstrom looked good 2 years ago, at full health, where do you put him on the depth chart?
Thanks.
Jim Thomas: 1. Incognito. He was the Rams' best OL for most of last season.
2. Schuening was with the No. 2 unit at minicamp at RG. He's not guaranteed anything, though.
3. No. 2 center right now. But we'll see how he progresses coming back from two serious knee injuries. If all goes well, he could elbow his way into the guard competition, too.
2. Schuening was with the No. 2 unit at minicamp at RG. He's not guaranteed anything, though.
3. No. 2 center right now. But we'll see how he progresses coming back from two serious knee injuries. If all goes well, he could elbow his way into the guard competition, too.
cityless fan: Thank you for taking your time out to answer these questions. Helps a lot in slow times to have something to talk about. I am extremely concerned about the RB situation we're in. Everybody knows what happens to our team when SJ can't play. To me, if they're investing all this money on OL help, how can they not go after a true back up RB? SJ goes down, and with no back up RB, the investment to establish a threatening running game goes out the window. Do you have info on if BD is looking into whats left of FA to see what we can get?
Jim Thomas: Addressed the backup RB possibilities in a previous answer. Yes, I believe the Rams will be looking to add an RB before training camp, or even later possibly.
cardsnumber7: Hello Bill,
What is your projected starting OL?
Thanks
Todd W.
What is your projected starting OL?
Thanks
Todd W.
Jim Thomas: LT: Barron
LG: Bell
C: Ja. Brown
RG: Incognito
RT: Ja. Smith
LG: Bell
C: Ja. Brown
RG: Incognito
RT: Ja. Smith
marctheram: Thanks Bill, Are the Rams really going to go to training camp with The Teen Squad and Laurent Robinson as their recieivers? Will Witherspoon be moved to his natural position ay outside linebacker? Which back do you think will end up as Jackson's back up? GO RAMS
Jim Thomas: 1. Probably.
2. Yes, Witherspoon is the weakside LB now.
3. Addressed earlier -- no idea yet.
2. Yes, Witherspoon is the weakside LB now.
3. Addressed earlier -- no idea yet.
robert salamone: I keep hearing about Bulgers accuracy, yet in the quarterback competition in Hawaii that was telivised he could not hit one target and was last in the competition. He looked horrible in this competionand in 2008 he missed his receivers alot. Why do you and other writers talk about his accuracy?
Jim Thomas: When he has time to set up and throw, Bulger is one of the most accurate QBs in the league. You hear that all the time from other coaches, players, front-office types, etc. Neither he nor any other QB will be very accurate when under duress most of the time, as has been the case here the last few years. That's a main reason why the Rams have retooled their o-line.
Hondo: Seems to me Tye Hill is going to have to have a huge training camp and exhibition season to get to start for the Rams this season. He doesn't seem to fit the prototype corner Spags is looking for, he doesn't have the confidence or the size. Make or break season for Tye?
Jim Thomas: I'd go even further and say this is a make-or-break preseason for Hill. If he can't earn the starting spot at the other corner, then he doesn't have much of a future here.
Ram-Man: Hey Jim..Umm I mean Bill, What's the feel inside the locker room? Do you get a sense of excitement? Or is it more a sense of apprehension? Also, Steven Jackson must be having a hard time trying to contain himself. I mean, he has heard every year, that he is going to be the focal point of the offense. But this year, really looks like the real deal. With a bolstered O-line and a real Fullback and no real stand out veteran at WR, he must feel that this is his year to shine. Barring injury of course, he has the opportunity to put up un-Godly numbers. Has he been walking around Rams Park with an extra bounce in his step?
Jim Thomas: Well, they haven't let us inside the locker room yet, but, yes, I do get a sense of excitement around Rams Park. Maybe the feel of a fresh start under Spags.
Jackson is a happy man, for sure. He got what he wanted in the offseason. Now, he just has to stay healthy.
Jackson is a happy man, for sure. He got what he wanted in the offseason. Now, he just has to stay healthy.
Newkirk: Jim, The Rams used a 6th round pick for a QB that apparently wasn't on many radar screens. Chase Daniel and Graham Harrell went undrafted after all. Do you think the Rams could have signed this guy (Null?) as a FA? Do you know if he has QB "smarts" like a Kurt Warner or Payton Manning?
Jim Thomas: Yes, I think Null could've been signed as a UDFA. Can't understand taking him in the 6th.
As for his QB "smarts," way too eary to tell. But he has a strong, accurate arm, and he's an impressive guy to talk to. Even looks a bit like Warner in the face. Wants to be a minister after his football days are over. Not sure if he's going to collect winter coats for the needy, though.
As for his QB "smarts," way too eary to tell. But he has a strong, accurate arm, and he's an impressive guy to talk to. Even looks a bit like Warner in the face. Wants to be a minister after his football days are over. Not sure if he's going to collect winter coats for the needy, though.
Randy Nantz: Jim,
Thanks for the chance for fans to ask some questions.
Which player(s)most need to have break-out seasons for the Rams to not only rebuild but possibly contend in the NFC West?
Thanks for the chance for fans to ask some questions.
Which player(s)most need to have break-out seasons for the Rams to not only rebuild but possibly contend in the NFC West?
Jim Thomas: The answer to that is: their best players have to have their best seasons. That means Jackson, Bulger, Barron, Avery, Atogwe, Bartell, etc. If they do, the Rams certainly could contend in the division.
John: If Fells beats out Klop for the 3rd TE spot, should we be excited about his future? Do you think he has the potential to step up to the #1 spot when McMichael's contract is up?
Jim Thomas: Since the Rams brought him in last year, Fells has looked great in practice, but only so-so during games. His task is to prove that he can do it when the lights go on. If he can, then we can discuss the McMichael question. But the Rams sure like Fells' upside.
peroge: Have the Rams cut all ties with Claude Wroten or will he be given another chance? He remains listed on their roster as suspended. If he is still associated with the Rams when can he rejoin the team?
Jim Thomas: He can be reinstated when his one-year suspension is up, which I believe is later this spring or early summer. I would then expect the Rams to release him. He doesn't measure up to Spags' pillar test.
grimmsta642@yahoo.com: Has there been anydiscussion or indication as to who will be our kick/punt returner?
Jim Thomas: At minicamp, they had a bunch of guys fielding punts and kicks. Derek Stanley is the front-runner for both jobs as of now. Avery might get a look on KOs, and possibly Darby, too.
Armen Dacity: Bill,
Based upon what you saw at mini-camp, where do you see Adam Carriker lining up? UT, NT, DE, a combination of 2 or 3 of those spots?
Based upon what you saw at mini-camp, where do you see Adam Carriker lining up? UT, NT, DE, a combination of 2 or 3 of those spots?
Jim Thomas: It seems evident now that Carriker is most effective as the 3-technique T, lined up between the guard and tackle. He's just OK at nose, and he isn't really well suited for DE in a 4-3.
Armen Dacity: Bill,
If I offered you an over/under bet on the total combined sacks by Chris Long and Will Witherspoon in 2009, with the number being 18, would you take the over or the under?
If I offered you an over/under bet on the total combined sacks by Chris Long and Will Witherspoon in 2009, with the number being 18, would you take the over or the under?
Jim Thomas: Good question. I'd take the under.
Armen Dacity: Bill,
Do you see Greco competing for a starting spot, or is he destined to be the #6 OL on the team this year?
Do you see Greco competing for a starting spot, or is he destined to be the #6 OL on the team this year?
Jim Thomas: The Rams are convinced that Grego is a guard, not a tackle. I don't see him beating out Bell or Incognito for the first-team spots.
Dejan: Hi Bill, greetings from Serbia!
I was wondering if you could describe Rams fans in Serbia what kind of player is Laurinaitis? What I meen is, to wich player and i meen NFL veteran player, james Laurianitis mostly reminds of? (Urlacher, Tatupu, Antonio Pierce, etc)
Thanks very much from loyal Rams fans from Serbia!
I was wondering if you could describe Rams fans in Serbia what kind of player is Laurinaitis? What I meen is, to wich player and i meen NFL veteran player, james Laurianitis mostly reminds of? (Urlacher, Tatupu, Antonio Pierce, etc)
Thanks very much from loyal Rams fans from Serbia!
Jim Thomas: Hmmmm... my first thought was that he reminded me a bit of Dan Morgan. He doesn't have Urlacher's size and probably isn't as rangy as Tatupu or Pierce. Really, haven't seen enough to answer this very accurately, I'm afraid. Ask again around mid-August.
Aron: How does Pisa look at slb?
Jim Thomas: Small.
vanvaley1: Is Ogbonnaya fast enough to be a slot guy now and then? He played that before didn't he? Having somebody that big, powerful, and agile should make a few DBs worry alot...no? van
Jim Thomas: Interesting idea. He caught a bunch of passes during his one year as a starter at Texas, out of their spread offense.
First, though, he has to make the team. That's certainly not a given.
First, though, he has to make the team. That's certainly not a given.
4thandJuan: Hi,
Did Brian Leonard work with the first or second teams in the minicamp? Is he looking like a lost cause right now?
Did Brian Leonard work with the first or second teams in the minicamp? Is he looking like a lost cause right now?
Jim Thomas: Didn't seem him take any reps with the ones or the twos at RB. Not sure about FB.
Leonard's status right now is up in the air. The Rams have to determine just what he is and where he might work into the mix.
Leonard's status right now is up in the air. The Rams have to determine just what he is and where he might work into the mix.
B-Ball Fan: How is Stanley's rehab going ? I see he was allowed to do some individual drills.
Jim Thomas: He did individual drills and was practically begging Spags to let him get into the team work. He seems to be doing well and should be fine by training camp -- maybe even the next minicamp.
runninlate: Hi Jim,
Settle a bet for me. I say the Football Cardinals, or the Rams have never had a pro bowl Defensive Lineman or Linebacker during their tenure in St. Louis. Right or wrong? Thanks...Ron in Shrewsbury
Settle a bet for me. I say the Football Cardinals, or the Rams have never had a pro bowl Defensive Lineman or Linebacker during their tenure in St. Louis. Right or wrong? Thanks...Ron in Shrewsbury
Jim Thomas: Wrong. DE Kevin Carter made the Pro Bowl in 1999 and DE Leonard Little did in 2004. Not sure about any others off the top of my head.
Chuck Fuller: Do you think Chris Draft has a future with the Rams? Do yu think Draft's playing time will be reduced because of Laurinaitis? I think Draft is one of the best players on the Rams, on and off the field
Jim Thomas: The Rams would like, and fully expect, Laurinaitis to win the first-team job at MLB. Draft could contend for the starting spot at SLB, but the Rams really like him in the role of the backup at all three LB positions.
Off the field, Draft is incredible. His commitment to the community is really something. Great guy.
That's all for this week. Thanks to all for participting.
Off the field, Draft is incredible. His commitment to the community is really something. Great guy.
That's all for this week. Thanks to all for participting.
Mike: Hey Jim. Im wondering how will leonard little contribute this year. Is he going to be a starter? or will they mix him out? Thanks
Jim Thomas: I think Little and Adeyanju will wind up "sharing" the LDE spot. Little is still an effective pass-rusher, but Adeyanju is stronger vs. the run. I think they'll be deployed situationally.
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