B in Denver: Jim: Thanks for the time. Do you think Tory has lost a step or two? Have you talked to the league offices about the deal the Seahawks have in place with Mora, as it relates to what the Rams did with Haslet? What is the difference, or is there one? I know there is alot of season left. But what area do you think the 1st round pick should be next year? (I think it should be a MLB)

Jim Thomas: I don't think Torry runs like he did four or five years ago, but by no means do I think he can't run anymore. I still see him getting separation. I still see him getting open. He runs good routes and has great hands. I still think he can be a very effective receiver in this offense.
Yes, I did check with the league on Mora. And as long as a provision is written into an assistant coach's contract _ while he's still an assistant _ the coach can be named a head-coach-in-waiting without worrying about the Rooney Rule. I don't know why this loophole exists, but it does.
As for the first-round pick, as I said last week, take the best player available. Don't reach for need in the early rounds.

MonkeyLooker: This is why many Ram's fans hold Marc Bulger accountable for his poor, mistake prone, uninspiring play-

NFL'S HIGHEST PAID

Top NFL salaries in 2007 (includes bonuses):
Player, team Salary

DE Dwight Freeney, Indianapolis $ 30,750,000

QB Marc Bulger, St. Louis $ 17,502,040

OL Leonard Davis, Dallas $ 17,006,240

DE Gaines Adams, Tampa Bay $ 15,434,000

DE Robert Geathers, Cincinnati $ 14,000,000

DT Cory Redding, Detroit $ 13,625,000

OL Derrick Dockery, Buffalo $ 13,504,680

RB Reggie Bush, New Orleans $ 13,375,960

OL Kris Dielman, San Diego $ 13,305,280

RB Larry Johnson, Kansas City $ 13,300,000

Jim, you & Howard Balzer are nauseating in your defense of Bulger - when you are the 2d highest paid player in the NFL you are expected to make plays so quit making excuses for him!

Jim Thomas: I'm not sure I get your point. Obviously, Bulger isn't playing up to his contract. His 2007 salary is so high because he got all the signing bonus money for his contract extension during that year. But Bulger earned that contract with his play from 2002-06. He got a market value contract for a quarterback after making his second Pro Bowl.

JMJ Ram Fan: Couple questions Jim. Do you think Bulger should be performing better, or is the O-line the problem?. When Trent was in there the numbers wern't that much better, then Bulger's, but he got rid of the ball quicker, and you saw more intensity in the offense. Also have the Rams spoken to Vermeil about maybe a job as a consaltant, He's a motivater and could help inspire some of vets and rookies to step up. What do you think?.

Jim Thomas: I think it's both. There's no doubt that Bulger should be performing better. But there's also no doubt the pass blocking needs to improve. (Although at face value it wasn't all that bad against Arizona.)
The Rams considered asking Vermeil to come on board in some sort of consultant role at about the time they were firing Linehan and hiring Haslett as head coach, but nothing ever came of it.

JMJ Ram Fan: Hey Jim I think the Rams will win just enough games to keep Haslett, I do think there is a realistic shot at this division when you look at the schedule remaing for the Rams and everyone in the division. I think he'll get them going in the right direction. As for the 2009 draft, do you think its time to start looking for succesors for Bulger and Pace? My opinon the draft should go 1st-tackle 2nd linebacker 3rd QB or try to Matt Cassel from New England what do you think?

Jim Thomas: Realistically, I think any chance the Rams had of winning the division went out the window with the loss to Arizona. They're three games back with eight to play. That's a steep hill to climb.
There's no doubt in my mind that the Rams will try to address the tackle position in the offseason. And no doubt that the Rams realize they need to begin thinking about a quarterback of the future.

Walt Ruch: Remind us again just why we're better off having allowed the "Big Red" to leave town and to toss Mad Mike and Kurt Warner off the ream? Now, we're told the Rams are for sale (going back to LA?) and that we're required to completely rebuid the Ed Dome, at a cost of tens of millions, to have any chance to retain them. Just who was it that made all these great decisions?

Jim Thomas: My, we're in a fowl mood today, eh?
I think it's great that the Big Red are winning. But let's do the math. They had only one winning season in their first 20 years in Arizona. One playoff in that time; and one playoff victory, zero division titles.
In their first 13 seasons in St. Louis, the Rams have been to two Super Bowls, won one Super Bowl, won three division titles, earned five playoff berths, won six playoff berths. Which would you rather have.
Kurt Warner is having an amazing season, and is a great person. But just what has he done between his last game in St. Louis (2003) until now?
As for Martz, this won is much harder to defend. Yes, he was hard to deal with. Yes, his people skills could be lacking at times. But he finished 20 games over .500 (56-36) in St. Louis. Since he was last on the sidelines in St. Louis, the Rams are 17 games under .500 (17-34).
As for the Edward Jones Dome, it's simply the cost of doing business in the NFL. But I think the Rams, if they're truly committed to St. Louis, need to pitch in some money of their own if the dome indeed needs massive upgrading.
Lastly, the team wouldn't be for sale had Georgia not died. And that "decision," I would say, was pretty much an act of God.

OCRich: 1. Why is Jonathan Wade still on this team? Every single guy they've brought in off the streets automatically goes ahead of him in the depth chart.
2. Judging by his comments after the game has Bulger officially cracked under the pressure? Is the situation salvageable?

Jim Thomas: Two good questions.
1.) As a track guy/former wide receiver, the Rams knew Wade was raw coming in. But obviously, he hasn't progressed as quickly as the team had hoped. Despite that awful play with Jerheme Urban, Haslett insists that Wade played pretty well against the Cardinals. So my sense is, the Rams bring him back for next year if Haslett's back.
2.) Don't know what to say about Bulger. He _ and the team _ didn't handle that interception very well. I must add, however, that he's not getting nearly as much help as he should.

lawdog: The Rams appear to need major help at virtually every position--but in particular LB, OT, QB. In fact, they were so thin at LB I couldn't believe we didn't draft one on day i of the draft last year.

Who do you think the Rams have their eyes on to solve the problems at these positions either through next years draft (where it looks like we'll have the number one pick) or FA once this disaster of a season mercifully comes to an end?

Thanks for helping to give us fans an inside glance as to where our organization hopefully has some idea as to where it wants to go!

Jim Thomas: How about center? Cornerback, where four of the top five players have contracts that expire? Defensive tackle, where Glover's contract is up after this year, leaving only Carriker and Ryan? Safety, where Atogwe's contract is up, and Chavous may not be back?
As for who the Rams are targeting, I have no idea. And I don't think the Rams do at this point either. Their college scouts are still out in the field evaluating talent, and the junior class (and 3rd year sophomores) always change the landscape noticeably. And we won't know about early entrees until early January.

Tony: Hi Jim,

Can we talk about Avery? What has been the most pleasant surprise where he is concerned, for you personally, and are there specific areas where you have abiding concerns about him? How does the recent play of both Avery and Stanley impact your assessment of Holt's future in St. Louis?

Jim Thomas: I knew about his speed. But he also has made some tough catches, has already absorbed some big hits without flinching. His hands are better than his reputation coming in. Obviously, he has to cut down on his mistakes in terms of route-running, and in general he has to learn how to run the shorter and intermediate routes as well. He's a bit one-dimensional now (deep threat) although that's a great dimension to have.
As for Avery and Stanley, let's not forget about the other member of the Teen Squad _ Keenan Burton. If all three continue to develop, stay healthy, and make plays, you have to wonder about Holt's future in St. Louis. He has one-year left on his contract. And it looks like his role has been reduced, by design. I still think he could be a valuable contributor as more of a possession-intermediate receiver (while occasionally running the deep routes). But I'm not sure that the front office-coaching staff shares that opinion. And I'm not sure how Holt would feel about that role.

BillP: Hello Jim, what is your take on some of the comments recently by Bulger? Last week he was quoted as saying he felt he was playing all right this year. Sunday he says he doesn't give a damn what the fans say. Earlier this year he acted like a baby when he got benched. Hardly the feedback you expect from someone who is to lead your team. Yes, no running game, yes, there was pressure in the pocket. But this is the NFL, and stuff like this happens all the time. If you want to beat the teams pass rush, then make some plays. That's the best way to cool off pressure. If you make plays, then the other team has to back off. You make them pay. But Marc can't deliver, again. In a hugh game against the Cardinals, it was a very poor showing.

Jim Thomas: Well, Bulger could also be ripping his offensive line, or publicly taking his wide receivers to task, but he's not doing that.
What do you expect him to say about the fans? "I enjoy being booed."
I do think he could've handled his benching better, by not avoiding the media like he did.
But at the end of the day, words don't matter. It's what happens on the field. And right now, Bulger's play isn't good enough.

lawdog: Which position do you think we need to address via the draft or FA once this season ends?

Jim Thomas: All of them, except for punter and place-kicker.

NYC Rams Fan: Hi Jim,

After the Rams beat the Cowboys two weeks ago, and everyone was celebrating, I couldn't help but hearken back to last year when the Rams came out of the bye and won 2 in a row... and then proceeded to lose all but one the rest of the way. Here, it seems, we go again. First, are the players hanging their heads like they did in the first quarter of the season, or do they still have some confidence, and believe they can come out alright?

Second, while the number of sacks on Bulger seems a bit more manageable, reports seem to say he still isn't getting lots of time in the pocket. Are there still big problems with the pass blocking? Is this a talent issue? Because the run blocking has seemingly been decent (at least before this week, anyway). Why is the line struggling so much? When I think back on players who quarterbacked us in good times (Everett, Warner, etc.), I can't help but notice a pattern of shell-shock from too many hits. What gives?

Jim Thomas: 1.) The Rams have faced the toughest schedule in the NFC so far this season, and the second-toughest schedule in the entire NFL. As for "here it goes again," we're about to find out if that's the case in these final eight games.
I can't tell you for sure if the players are hanging their heads, but the Arizona game looked a lot like the Linehan Rams.
2.) The pass blocking by the line, at face value, wasn't all that bad against Arizona. But the Rams are throwing less this season _ noticeably less, about 8-9 passes a game less _ yet the sack total is as high as ever. The team currently ranks 29th of 32 teams in sacks allowed per pass play. That's not very good, is it? But it's just not the line. The backs must do better, and so must the tight ends.

Brad: Jim, looks like the Rams won't be making the playoffs this year, no surprise. I know you don't like to talk about the offseason plans much until almost the end of season, but I am curious about the cap status of some key players for 2009. Will the Rams take any cap hits if Bennett, Dante Hall, Pace, and Holt are no longer with team come next season? I see the Rams parting ways with at least 2 of 4, if not all 4 next season due to their high salaries and limited production. Holt they may try to trade though if they can get something for him.

thanks,

Brad

Jim Thomas: Hall's contract expires after this season, so there is no cap hit.
Holt is entering the final year of his contract in '09. If he's released or traded, $2.2 million of unamortized signing bonus money would count against the '09 cap, but $8 million would be subtracted from the '09 cap (representing his base salary of $6.75 million plus a roster bonus of $1.25 million).
Pace has three years left on his contract entering '09, but the way his contract was structured there is no signing bonus proration for the '10 and '11 seasons. What that means is that if he were released or traded (before June 1), there would be only a $3 million cap charge for '09 (from his signing bonus), but his $6 million base salary would be subtracted from the '09 cap.
Bennett, with four years remaining on his contract after this season, is a little more problematical, but not a bankbuster, either. Bennett's cap hit if cut or trade before June 1 would be $5 million in unamortized signing bonus, but the team wouldn't have to pay his $3.3 million base salary in '09, or a $500,000 signing bonus.

In summary, all of this may be more information you need. But here's an easy way to figure it. If Pace, Holt, and Bennett were all on the Rams roster in 2009, they would count roughly $24 million against the '09 cap. If all three were cut or traded before June 1, they would count rougly $10.2 against the '09 cap.

midnighter67: Why doesn't Romberg get a chance? Is he still hurt? It seems Leckey is overmatched every week.

Jim Thomas: Romberg is healthy. Obviously, the coaching staff feels that Romberg wouldn't be much of an upgrade, or any kind of an upgrade over Romberg. I'm not sure I agree with this, then again, no one's asked for my opinion at Rams Park.

Gabriel 2 Snow: Hello Jim, any news on how Cadet Thomas is doing? There are many of us patriots ( American, NOT NewEngland! ) that are pulling for him.
On the Rams, I think many will have issues about Bulger. The one that concerns me most is his denials that his mechanics have deteriorated. He can't even BEGIN to correct a problem he refuses to acknowledge. His attitude is terrible, the constant negative assessments seemingly rattling him as much as a safety blitz. Rather than focusing on a possible solution, he comes off as pouting & defensive. Not a good example for his team. This is the kind of leader 60 million dollars gets us? I thought Haz did the right thing naming him the starter for the rest of the year, but if Marc keeps his head in the sand, he'll find it's quicksand, and few will second guess Haslett eating his words by benching him. I believe Haz would stick with Marc all the way if his attitude was conducive to improvement & leadership. You have usually stayed firmly in Marcs corner, has his recent demeanor troubled you? Or are we Just seeing negative moments overhyped by the media?

Jim Thomas: G to S,
Cadet Thomas is doing well, thank you. He's in the middle of his junior year, coaching his regimental tackle football team, and majoring in Middle Eastern Studies.
As for Bulger. He didn't play well Sunday. Yes, he could be handling things better, in my opinion. But he needs blocking and a running game, simple as that. Although my job in part is to report what the players say, at the end of the day it's what they do on the field.

wttrash2: Jim,

Thanks for doing the chat.

Just an observation from the game Sunday. Why can't Leckey get the ball to Bulger faster on a shot gun snap? Watching the Cardinals center get the ball to Warner was like night and day. Bulger has to sit and wait for the ball to get to him, while Warner is already looking downfield. There is a good second difference in the time each QB would get the ball. Is Romberg healthy enough yet to get back in there?

Bill

Jim Thomas: You know, we haven't asked anybody about this, but Leckey's shotgun snaps have been a little shaky the past few games. Romberg is indeed healthy.

cardsnumber7: Hello Jim,

1. I have to work overtime this Friday and do inventory. I have concluded that it is Marc Bulger's fault.

2. Also , If Bulger leads the team in rushing, how is it all Bulger's fault still? If that is happening our offensive line is doing a horrible job. Bell is a bust. Leckey smallest lineman in the league. I don't care how good your skill guys are, without pass and run blocking you're not going anywhere. Sure Bulger didn't look good but c'mon.

3. Oh yeah, what would people say if Big Ben were in St. Louis? Bench Ben Roethlisberger? He goes 1td 4int. and atleast Steeler fans know it's the Oline, Why not half of St. Louis fans? Marc goes 2td's and 2ints and gets crucified.

End Rant

Thanks for listening. Keep up the Good Work and Go Rams
Todd W.

Jim Thomas: You make a lot of good points. A voice of reason in the wilderness. But I get the feeling your opinion is in the minority in this town.

I had to break away for a while to check on some personnel matters. Here's the news: The Rams have added RB Samkon Gado, who was with Houston last season, to the active roster. So Gado is the No. 2 back for the Jets game (assuming Jackson can't play). LB David Vobora was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster.
WRs Dante Hall and Drew Bennett officially go on IR today.
On the practice squad, the team has released FB Russ Weil and S David Roach. They have added WR Matt Caddell, RB Darius Walker (who was with Houston last season), and LB Kelly Poppinga (BYU) to the practice squad.

cardsnumber7: Hi Jim
I've always liked Setterstrom. I think he helps alot in the run game. What is your opinion of him?

Maybe next year
LT draft pick
LG Setterstrom
C Romberg
RG Incognito
RT Barron

Bell 30 mill. backup bust.

Thank you
Todd

Jim Thomas: I like Setterstrom a lot to as a player. My sense, however, is that this latest injury could be career threatening.

midnighter67: Do you think Holt will ask for a trade or release in the offseason if his lack of involvement continues? I think his contract is up after the '09 season anyway so, if he's unhappy, why not? They should be able to get a 4th rounder for him. If he was more involved in the offense I wouldn't even consider this but if he's isn't going to used much...

Jim Thomas: Good question, and an interesting topic. I think a lot depends on what we see from the Teen Squad (Avery, Burton, Stanley) over the final eight games of the season. Can they stay healthy? Will they continue to develop and produce?

Mark: Remeber Tony Softli? Is this guy still on the team, or is he just part of the yard debris pile waiting for the recycling truck? Rams can never go as green as it's tortured fans have. I realize it takes more than a few weeks to undo 2-plus years Linehorror, but is Softli and his "computer program straight out of the shimmer of heaven" still a factor in the future?

Jim Thomas: Softli is still under contract. I think Devaney likes him as a college talent evaluator.

schurch1984: Hey Jim, I'm a Rams fan from Massachusetts, and I was able to see the Rams play the Patriots from the 8th row on the pats sideline. I'm just happy that since I really only get to see them play once every 8 years that it was a competitive game, unlike the game against Arizona. Would you say that loss was more a result of not having a healthy RB playing, or does the blame lay elsewhere in your mind?

Jim Thomas: When healthy, Jackson clearly is the Rams' best player. If Jackson plays against New England, I'd say he gets 150 yards rushing and the Rams win by seven to 10 points.

mike: rams are much better when little is in there and at 100 %

any chance the packers defensive end just released could be picked up?

haslet needs to win now

what about Simeion rice or lecharles bentley--

could you grade the offensive linemen-- i think its the root of all the evil i see.

Jim Thomas: Simeon Rice is washed up. Bentley's knee is shot.
Here's how I'd rank the play of the offensive linemen, starters that is, for this season at the midway point:
1.) Pace; 2.) Incognito; 3.) Barron; 4.) Bell; 5.) Leckey

dave: Jim, The Honeymoon is over. ah well, it was good while it lasted.

as many questions im guessing will be, what is the feeling around rams park about marc bulger and his prospects of returning next season. there is still a ways to go but as of now, what is the prognosis. There are going to be decent vets on the market that the rams could use as a carry over to a draft pick such as Cassell, leftwich, warner (Highly unlikely), sage rosenfels (trade), grossman, derek anderson (trade), maybe pennington. apart from warner, would the rams be inclined to change, if only for PR reasons. It seems obvious a round 2-4 pick is going to be on a QB....

Jim Thomas: My sense is the Rams realize the need to draft a QB of the future (mid rounds, perhaps?), but they'd like to see Bulger with more consistent pass protection, a more consistent running game, and the Teen Squad in Year 2 (2009) before pulling the plug.

mike: i just dont like the first down plays in the last couple of weeks,

what do you see out of darby in practice?

your thoughts on shaw and ziggy not being on potium with Dick Vermeil

what are the cap issue's with bulger next season

Jim Thomas: Darby looks quick, decisive. He's not a burner. And he's not overly big.
To me, no Shaw & Zyggy on the podium was pretty telling about their future with the club.
As for Bulger, not only would the club take an $8 million cap hit on unamortized signing bonus if he's cut or traded by June 1, $3 million of his 2009 base salary also is guaranteed.

mike: heres a short list of players that need to be replaced going into next year

berlin,kredider,bennett,dante hall,klopenstein,romberg,leckey,gorin,pettiti,glover


lets get started now we may be able to trade klopenstein for some other teams rejects maybe a change of scenery would do another player some good

Jim Thomas: Mike, my friend, you're going absolutely bananas.
P.S. _ The trade deadline has passed for this season.

ram4life: Jim, in my opinion, every championship team seems to have a bunch of headhunters playing linebacker. I once heard a coach say that " Your linebackers are your hired hitmen." Do you agree that this team needs to start spending some high draft picks on LB's. It seems to me that everytime i see Pisa on a pass play, its always his man making the catch. I really dont think he's very instinctual. What's your take on this?

Jim Thomas: I think the team will address the LB position in the offseason.

Edro: Hello Jimmy,

Thanks for taking my question.

Re: Front Office hirings

A) When are team(s) typically able too hire front office people (which part of the year)???
B) What does Billy Devaney future hold within the Rams brass. less or more power???
C) Will Chip hire a full scouting staff & pro personnel staff???
D) how do you for see Rams front office looking in the near future or more of the same old sorry.... OR totally rebuilt???

P.S. E-Mail Chip telling him to hire Gil Brandt & Dick Vermeil as an advisor's panel to rebuild our front office!!!!

Jim Thomas: A.) Front office people currently with other clubs are under contract at least until the end of the season. Some of those contracts, in fact, run until the end of the draft.
B.) I think team ownership likes Devaney. And although no final decisions have been made, I certainly think it's better than 50-50 that Devaney has control of personnel (along with the head coach) next season.
C.) The Rams have a full scouting staff. I think they'd like to beef up the pro personnel department, however, with another hire.
D.) I think all of this is still under consideration. But my guess is that Shaw and Zygmunt are out, Devaney stays, but other than that I'm not sure. Who handles contracts? Will there be some type of president of football operations over Devaney? Etc.

Rich: Good afternoon Jim,

In light of the Rams sudden crisis at RB, do you see them going after anyone this week like say Lance Ball?

Also, do you see the Rams picking up another WR after putting 2 on IR?

Thanks for these chats

Jim Thomas: I posted this earlier as part of a reply to an unrelated question, but here it is again: RB Samkon Gado (most recently with Houston) has been added to the active roster. LB David Vobora has been promoted to the active roster from the practice squad. With D. Hall and D. Bennett now officially on IR, the Rams have only 5 WRs on the active roster (Holt, Avery, Burton, Stanley, Looker). But WR Matt Caddell has been added to the practice squad to help the team get through practice. The team has also added RB Darius Walker (former Houston Texan) and LB Kelly Poppinga (BYU) to the practice squad. Practice squaders S David Roach and FB Russ Weil have been released.

Bigdognaj: Jim,

Thanks, as always, for the great work. (and your patience with these chats!). I know winning cures all ills, but do you think Marc Bulger has sealed his fate with the fans of St. Louis with his comments in the last few days? His appearing to have a lack of "fire down below" can't help this either.

Jim Thomas: No.

Cory-Parker Co: JT,

I still get frustrated 6 1/2 seasons after the fact that the Rams let London Fletcher walk. The list of players tht the Rams have tried to replace him with includes, but is not limited to...

Jamie Duncan
Don Davis
Tommy Polley
Robert Thomas
Brandon Spoon
Trev Faulk
Chris Claiborne
Will Witherspoon

I personally hope the Rams bring in a Head Coach that realizes Will Witherspoon is not a Mike LB and that he is best suited outside. I also hope that the Rams take the philosophy of a good defensive baseball team. Get stronger defensively up the middle. In baseball, if you have a good catcher, 2nd Baseman, Shortstop, and Centerfielder, you have a good chance of winning.

In football I think it is no different. You need a stout Nose Tackle, a good 3 technique DT, A thumper at MLB, and a SS that can come downhill and make tackles in run support. Right now I am not sure if the Rams have any of these type of players. Clifton Ryan seems to be regressing in his second year. Adam Carriker has been hurt a lot so the jury is still out on him (although I think he is better suited as a 3-4 DE), Witherspoon is playing out of position, and Chavous is terrible. Just some food for thought.

Jim Thomas: Even Rams management realizes that letting Fletcher go was the biggest free agent mistake the franchise has made since the move to St. Louis. I too, am of the opinion that Witherspoon is better suited for OLB.

Matt: Well, it looks as if 7 wins would be enough to win the NFC west this season. With the 49ers, Rams, and Seahawks all at 2-6 I can't forsee any of them going 5-3 in their last 8 games so if the Cardinals manage 2 wins I can't see them losing the division. Is this as bad as any division you have seen, ever?

Jim Thomas: If not the worst, it's pretty darn close. But take a look at the AFC West this year. That's not exactly a powerhouse group either.

Tshow: Jim,
The Rams OL is among the worst in the NFL. Are we going to see any of John Greco and Roy Schuening in the 2nd half of the season? How does the Rams organization feel about these two players?

Jim Thomas: Greco's closer to playing than Schuening. I think Greco could be a starter next season. The Rams like both players. Greco is more athletic than Schuening.

Tshow: Is there any news or rumors concerning the future ownership of the Rams? What is the latest on this front? The Rams have no chance of righting the ship until the ownership situation is resolved.

Jim Thomas: The only thing I can tell you is that no sale appears imminent at this point.

Young Ram: Why is Berlin not starting,are they planning on starting he is the fastest and has the biggest arm and he's hungry.So whats the deal.

Jim Thomas: Don't hold your breath waiting on this one.

DEEJ: With no running backs healthy I feel it takes Saunders off the hook for what looked like a horribly called offensive gameplan. Bulger didn't look good, but on the play that changed the game, the INTTD, the lack of protection that Bulger has put up with in general was the difference. It looked like to me Bulger made his presnap reads, had deep help on the outside tried to look off the coverage and then threw blind to the guy he thought would be open. The safety didn't go with the deep pattern down the sideline instead jumped the post on the inside guy and made the easy INT. Offensive lines take time to work well together. Is this unit talented enough to be good in time or is this as good as it gets? Hard to fault at the time, but I guess the Ram's should have taken Cutler. Can Holt handle changing to an Ike Bruce role? This seems to be the way he's going to be productive.

Jim Thomas: Last time I checked, Cutler had thrown 10 interceptions, twice as many as Bulger this season, and the third-highest total in the league.

jlaue: jim, what % chance bulger will be cut before next year? is it 50-50?

Jim Thomas: I would say zero.

rams26: Hello Jim -

As a die-hard Rams fan since 1983, I will always root for the Rams. With that said, I don't feel Haslett is the right person for the Rams head coaching position. For me, he sealed his fate last Sunday. When he took over he promised the team would "play hard!" I didn't see that Sunday. I thought Linehan was on the sideline again. We need to get through this season and hope for the best results we can for this year. However, looking ahead to next year, we need a coach that can motivate and inspire. Haslett isn't the answer. We need to find someone who is.

Thank you!

As always...................GO RAMS!!!

Jim Thomas: It too looked like a Linehan team to me on Sunday, but it's been that way one out of four games with Haslett. Shouldn't we have to factor in what we say at Washington, at New England, and against Dallas? That looked pretty good to me.

Rams Fan In China: JT,
1. Does Torry Holt want out, or is he just understandably frustrated with this season?
2. Is it just me, or is it weird that Rams fans seem to me more down on our veterans than our draft class this year? The kids seem alright.
3. I've had this cup of Haslett Kool-Aid sitting by my computer since the win over the 'Boys. I was going to drink it, but now I'm not so sure. What do you think?
Thanks for the chat as always.
RFIC

Jim Thomas: 1.) Frustrated.
2.) Plain and simple, Bulger and Jackson are not Warner and Faulk.
3.) Water is better for you.

Josh Davis: Fans would like to know what is going on with keeping holt out of the offensive? He is your sure target, he might have lost his deep threat status but a short quick gain is big game. Also where is the heart for you guys, its hard to be a died hard fan when that is what you see every week form the team is no heart no passion. Bulger could be having a bad year HELP your teammate support him that goes for everyone, this is ST. Louistake pride in what you are.

Jim Thomas: Even in the NFL, you can't survive week in and week out playing "American League ball" _ you know, waiting for the long ball. I too, think Holt can still be valuable in more of a possession role.

4thandJuan: Hi Jim,
Pretend you're the Rams' GM. How do you retool the offensive line?

Jim Thomas: At minimum, a center and a tackle are needed. Guys with some size and toughness.

BrotherBri: It seems to me that as the RBs are not healthy, and the QB is suffering from the yips, this Jets game might have to be treated like a preseason game -- with Greco, Schuening, Romberg and Berlin (yikes!) getting the starts over Bell, Cogs, Leckey and Bulger. We don't want the "better players" more hurt with the division schedule coming up, and we might as well see what we have with the draft picks.

What's that, JT? Haslett is too competitive? His '09 contract depends on winning '08 games? Yeah, you and Gordo say that all the time. But at some point, Haslett has to (a) send messages that inept play won't be tolerated, and (b) learn what the kids have and find out where they need to be coached. Why not now?

WHY NOT NOW?

Jim Thomas: Let's see: Avery, Burton, and Stanley all have growing roles in the offense.
Ryan and Carriker (health permitting) are starting ahead of Glover on defense. I would say the youth movement already is well under way.

Ram_Malavasi: JT: Realistically, given the rest of the schedule and their current injuries, how many wins are the Rams looking at this season? Are they basically out of playoff contention? (Haven't done the math or anything, but it seems like they would need to run the rest of the table and have AZ melt down). Do they start playing some of the rookies to gauge what talent they have?

Jim Thomas: You know, the target changes from week to week. Teams fortunes can sink or swim in a hurry. Did anyone think the Rams could beat Washington and Dallas, for instance? But will Steven Jackson be healthy? Will Leonard Little be able to contribute more with his hamstring issues? Will the pass blocking improve? Will Bulger settle down? Right now, you've got two games with San Fran, and one with Seatle. All the others look pretty tough.
In case you haven't noticed, the Rams already are playing a lot of the youngsters. No matter what the circumstances, you can't start treating the season like it's August. The idea is still to win games, and put the players out there that give you the best chance to win.

rockintheburbs: Jim,
How high is the ceiling for Kenneth Darby I know he was a stud at Alabama but does he have any potential as an NFL back. Is it possible he could be one of those great finds..... i think Pittman was a pretty good find?

Jim Thomas: Darby's celing. I think we're about to find out.
Pittman, ideally, is a No. 3 running back. Not a No. 2. The kid is tough, though.

UCityDave: No one's talked about this much that I've heard, but do you have any sense from the team that there is a schism building between the offense and the defense? If I were played on D for this team, I'd be getting frustrated at being constantly sent back out there, and having the guys who are supposed to score points giving them up instead.

Also, I hear people complaining about the Rams deferring their option on kickoffs to the second half. But I'm told that most college coaches do this most of the time. I don't watch much college ball. What's the truth to that and, if that's what they do in college, what do they know that our fan base doesn't?

Jim Thomas: Although improved in general under Venturi, last time I checked, the defense hadn't exactly been the Great Wall of China. They did give up 500-plus yards the other day.
To me, the whole defering thing is much to do about nothing. If you don't get the ball to start the game, you're still going to get it to start the second half. It doesn't change how many possessions you get in a game.

ncdc: Hey Jim,

We're seeing the LiZy (Linehan-Zygmunt) acquisitions relegated to I.R., and Jacob Bell is way under-performing his huge contract. So, this offseason, does Devaney and Haslett (assuming he returns) have a fire-sale on LiZy drafted players (Hill, Leonard, Klop, possibly others) to obtain more draft picks for '09?

Jim Thomas: I think Hill and B. Leonard come back.

Darryl: Hey Jim,
Thanks for giving us your time and doing this.

my question is any chance the Rams resign ball the running back that was with us in training camp then let go , and do you have any Idea why he was released to start with , he looked go in the pre season, just wondering. thanks again, Darryl

Jim Thomas: I'm at a loss to understand the fascination with Lance Ball. He did OK in the preseason at times. He also fumbled a couple of times, and his missed block resulted in a blocked punt. Keep in mind, backup running backs have to play a lot of special teams.

Lewis: Do you feel that both Bulger and Jackson are over paid and not playing up to the standards of other NFL Players in their league or pay range? Thanks, Lewis.

Jim Thomas: They earned their pay based on past performance.
Are they playing up to those contracts currently? Obviously, not.

ramscardsbluesfan: Jim

One of the biggest weaknesses of the 2008 RAMS is the offensive line. Why did the coaches,& maangement not address this more drastically in the offseason. I know they signed Jacob Bell, but considering that the rest of the O-line is either average or below average I would have thought this would have gotten more attention. An NFL offense is only as good as the the offensive line it has in front of it! Will there be any big name free agent Tackles/Guards or Centers available in the offseason that the rams could possibly sign?

Jim Thomas: I don't know who's available in the free-agent market at this time, but I guarantee you, upgrading the o-line will be one of the team's top offseason priorities.

Jbry06: Even though the rams got blown out sunday, do you believe that Haslett still have a good chance of returning next year. If so, do you think we will keep Rick as the defensive coordinator and do you think we will make a run at that middle linebacker from USC?

Jim Thomas: If Haslett's back, so is Venturi as defensive coordinator.
As for the USC LB, the only question is his speed. Is he fast enough to stay on the field in passing situations? Or is he a box player, capable of playing only on run downs. If it's the later, his value goes down.

West Coast Ram: Jim,
I don't even what to discuss the QB situation as I'm sure that everyone else will bombard you with questions this week about that subject. I'm more interested in the center and guard spots and middle linebacker positions. So here are my two questions:
1. Will there be changes in the interior line in the next week or two?
2. Don't the Rams need to select a traditional MLB in the draft?

Thanks for the time.

Jim Thomas: 1.) I don't think so at this point.
2.) Yes.

drebly32: DO the rams still have John David Washinton on the practice squad? They should give him a chance with all of their running backs injured right now.

Jim Thomas: J.D. Washington hasn't been around here for a while.

INEEDA HAMMER: Any word from Mike Martz or Ike Bruce on their thoughts on the "Trouser Drop"? Also, I've noticed in your previous postings that you have left messages for Loserhan and he has not returned any calls. What do you think that says about his true character?

Jim Thomas: I talked to Mike Martz a couple of weeks ago, before "Trouser Drop."
I'm sure the Post-Dispatch isn't on Scott Linehan's "must-read" list of publications.

BigDaddyTomCat: With Bennet being placed on IR can we count on a June 1 release of this non healty player!!!!!

Good Waste of money

Jim Thomas: Maybe even before June 1.

Edro: How was the half time ring of honour presentation for Dick Vermeil, and do you know if he had any talks w/ Chip or Billy D???????

Jim Thomas: DV was the guest of Chip and Lucia at a Saturday night dinner downtown. I'm not sure if Billy D was there.
The halftime ceremony was great. The neatest thing, I thought, is that most fans stayed in their seats to watch it.

BrandonRAMS: How high is Chase Daniels in the draft right now. Is he a first rounder for sure or a second rounder. Cause no offense to Bulger, we need to start grooming a young quarterback. And I think Chase would fit in great.He has the big arm and is decent on the run. Plus I think if we would draft him the ticket sales would sky rocket just like they did when Cleveland took Brady Quinn. If RAMS don't get him who is lined up to snag him.

Jim Thomas: I think some NFL scouts still wonder about Daniel's lack of height and overall accuracy.

John: Hi Jim,

As always, thanks for your time.

Your story in the PD this morning about the running backs, especially Jackson, stunned me. I would guess that Saunders not only had Jackson-specific plays, but a sequence or at least a pattern of plays to start the game. When Jackson said he was ready to play, the team counted on him; and to back out on the first play because he didn't think he could run that play astounds me. Why not simply communicate with your coaches and say what you can and can't manage to do? That way everyone is on the same page. For someone who wants effort for the team, including the fans and the music in the dome, Jackson doesn't always seem to be able to work on a team. Or am I missing something here?

John

Jim Thomas: In 2002, Kurt Warner told the coaches he could play with a bad hand. The coaches trusted what he said. With the team still in the playoff race, he went out for a game at Philadelphia and was terrible. Had trouble throwing the ball. The Rams lost. Would you say the same things about Warner's actions that week?

jon in kentucky: Any word on the injuries of Jacob Bell, and Bartell?

Jim Thomas: They're expected to be OK.

BigDaddyTomCat: Does Drew Bennett have one foot out the door since being put on IR

Hopefully they will cut him June 1st to minimize the cap hit.

You said Cory Chavous may not be back next year. Is his contract up?
I hope he's gone sooner then later.

Also why is Carter still on this team. He makes no plays on ST's or see's the field in real action

Jim Thomas: Chavous still has a couple years left on his contract.
There is no Carter on the current squad.

Darren: With the collective bargaining agreement in jeapordy does this throw a monkey wrench into free agency, salary cap, draft, etc?

Jim Thomas: It complicates things, but business will go on.

seam-route: Jim,
Any chance of Vermiel stepping in as GM when Zygmut bows out?

Also, any idea where Chase Coffman will go in the draft, and do the Rams have interest in him?

Jim Thomas: Don't think so on Vermeil.
One NFC personnel guy said he thought Coffman could be a Dallas Clark guy _ i.e., not much of a blocker but an excellent receiver. As to where that translates on draft day, it's way too early to tell.

Entreri10: Hey Jim,

Do you think guys like Bartell and Otogwe are going to get resigned after the season ( i think they would be important pieces for the future) or is it going to be more like evaluating how the team does the rest of the season and going on from there?

Jim Thomas: Certainly, the final eight games will have a lot to say about who stays and who goes, but I believe the Rams want to re-sign both Atogwe and Bartell.

Joe Stafford: Jim, with Drew Bennett and Dante Hall on IR, can I assume they are done with the team after this year?

Jim Thomas: No one would question your sanity for thinking that, although there are some cap ramifications with Bennett.

SouthernIlliniGuy: Jim,

Just for a change of pace, what position would you consider a 'strength' for the Rams at this point. Also, do you get the feeling that there will be much of a change in assistant coaches and approach if Haslett is kept as Head Coach?

Thanks!!

Jim Thomas: I would say the unit that at this point needs the least amount of retooling would be the defensive line, particularly if the Rams think Little has another season in him.
My sense is there wouldn't be a tremendous amount of change in the coaching staff under Haslett.

NYRammer: Hello Jim
I am absolutely ashamed of the fans that are bashing Marc Bulger. First, they complain because he is not vocal enough, then when he speaks out; he is a jerk for calling them out. This guy has taken hits that would have killed Manning or Brady and gotten up, never complained, and been a silent leader. I agree that he has struggled, and needs to up his game. However, that is difficult to do with 2 secs to get rid of the ball before he is creamed again by defensive linemen. He has taken late hits, blows to the head and facemasks all not called because he refuses to whine like Peyton or Tom; and still he works for us. Kurt showed what a Rams quarterback could do on a team with an offensive line. Face it, Bulger was a one man show on Sunday and since their savior Kurt was in town, our fair weather fans reared their ugly heads. Please set these nut jobs straight. Thanks!

GO RAMS!

Jim Thomas: My only question to the Bulger bashers. How do you think Warner would've fared Sunday playing behind the Rams pass protection (backs, TEs, and line) and with the Rams' running game as it was?
Honestly, do you think he throws for 300-plus yards?

martin: Hi Jim rams fan from the UK here any idea who gonna try and run the ball this week?

Derek Stanley does this kid have a great shot now at WR + KR,PR can he be the guy ?

Jim Thomas: Stanley must stay healthy, and be consistent. It was an amazing catch Sunday, but it was just one catch.

Sid Disney: Jim,

Is there any reason why the Rams are not attacking the middle of the field more? They throw out patterns like crazy but I see very little in the middle.

Jim Thomas: Your point is well taken. But it would help if they had a viable receiving threat at tight end, and if Jackson were healthy. Bulger's INT, by the way, was a ball over the middle.

Entreri10: Hey Jim,

Of the guys whos contracts run out this year who do you think is the most important to resign moving forward?

Thanks,
Dennis

Jim Thomas: I alluded to this before, but I would say Atogwe and Bartell.

Folks, that's it for this week. Very interesting stuff. I got to as many answers as possible.