dominic zappia: Hey Jim:
Absolutely I will talk on your behalf as will several hundred of your fans who partake in your chats and read and listen to your work.Give me names,phone numbers or email address' of the person I would have to contact to get Jim Thomas on a sunday football show.We all just gotta love Jim Thomas!!!
I agree with you that Jim Haslett gets it and with better players can and will succeed.I have read where management might be worried about selling tickets for next year,but if they follow thru and rid themslves of Zygmunt and Shaw,people will come! Us fans view them as the deterent and am hopeful that Devaney and Wallace run the orginization.I will be very happy with that scenario.Your thoughts? |
Jim Thomas: Thanks for your kind words.
Well, we're very close to show time for this organization. What will they do for a head coach? How will they approach free agency and the draft? What happens with Zygmunt and Shaw? We're about to find out.
Happy Holidays. |
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timmeno: Lets say JIm stays on as the head coach? Will we see more of the same old NO.AINTS brought in to play lb and cb and rb? Or will the Rams really look for a coach? I think alot of the wow's of our team has to do with the GM and driect of player personal? How many over 32y/o back up qb's do we need? And how many back up rb do we need that can only play special teams and not rb? Te's that cant block and are not used in the passing game? And o-linemen that are at the end of their playing days? Lets say we have some parts? Jackson and Avery Holt Barron and Hill and Long. But what does this team need to become a winner in the NFC west?
Marty as the GM/HC and a new VP Marshall, Now lets go shopping? Offer a 5rd pick to wash for Colt to become the QB in waiting and draft a RB to split carries to keep Jack fresh. Lets move Chavous and Glover and Hall and Green and Bennett and Pace and see what you can get by way of draft picks and players that are going to help our team? Bill Walsh said, sometimes you have to move a player a yr or two before he thinks he's done. Its not personal it business. And man we need to move some of the guys who ae playing for a pay check. You can spend a high pick on a QB? Or an OT? You schould have traded Pace last yr and added a FA OT for two yrs and drafted a OT early in the draft? How many Inside LB's did we miss? How many top flight O-linemen or RB's did we miss? How about tradding up into the low 1rd next yr for a RB or a Wr who could help? Re-signed Brown? Man their are kids in high school who can out run him! What is he 4.7-4.8-in 40yrds? He can tell you what kind of shoes every wr in the nfl wears because he's looking at the bottom of their shoes! You've got a few games left? Give the younger guys a shot and you may find that you've got a bunch of kids who can play in the nfl. I've almost had enough! I stopped watching football on mondays and Thrusdays and dont watch much on Sundays.
The Rams are making me look at baseball hot stove more than the sport I played. Come on man lets get this going? |
Jim Thomas: At the very least, I think it's an open job search for head coach with Haslett in the mix.
Billy Devaney will have a lot more power.
I don't think you're going to see Schottenheimer here. And for the life of me, I don't see the fascination with Faulk in the front office. Glover and Dante Hall have expired contracts, so they won't be back.
I'm not sure what you would get for Pace in a trade. I don't think Green would bring anything at this stage of his career. Cap issues might keep Bennett here another year. |
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| adam neil: A few questions 1.Will we try to deal our top 5 pick. 2.Do you think we could even attract any decent free agents or head coaches. 3.Do we get any extra picks from trades or compensatory.Thanks |
Jim Thomas: 1.) I think Devaney and the Rams will listen to all offers on the top five pick, but I think they'd be hard-pressed, for example, to pass on the opportunity to get the No. 1 offensive tackle in the draft.
2.) Sure, the Rams should be able to attract decent free agents (money talks) and head coaches (As bad as the situation looks here, and I by no means want to sugar coat it, there are only 32 of these jobs in the world.)
3.) The compensatory picks aren't announced until the owners meetings at the end of March. I don't think the Rams are due any extra picks via past trades off the top of my head, but I'll try to double check.
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zn2003: Burwell says: "now apparently Shaw's instincts are to gather a new list of unusual suspects for a new head coaching search and kick interim head coach Jim Haslett to the curb, mainly because Shaw thinks Haslett won't be a popular decision with the disgruntled fan base." Miklasz says: "It is believed that Rams president John Shaw is in favor of hiring a new coach."
What's concerning there is Shaw's involvement.
But Thomas says: "My sense right now is that there may not be a team president hired. Devaney runs the football operation; Bob Wallace runs the non-football stuff at Rams Park (as he always has), you hire a cap guy (or two), beef up the pro personnel department, and off you go. It would be Billy D working in concert with the new head coach. I think one line of thinking is that a president would just add another level of bureaucracy. I think Devaney would be the point man on any new head coach search as well."
Good on Devaney heading up coach searches, if true. But...which is right? Is Shaw still undead and involved? And---on not hiring a new team president. It's kind of boneheaded, if true, and has the fragrance of Shaw's way of doing things. And, not coincidentally, not hiring a new team president would leave more scope for Shaw's influence.
Can you clarify any of this? Thanks. |
| Jim Thomas: As we sit here right now, Shaw is still involved. He met with Haslett for a couple hours at the end of Sunday's game. At the end of the season, I think his role will be reduced greatly. |
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Mitch from San Diego: Hi Jim,
Thanks for your time. I noted that you have often stated that a big RB to spell Jackson should be a high priority in the 2009 draft. Well, do you think if they just have Brian Leonard focus on halfback and forget having him bulk up an play full back he could be that back?
In my view, early on when he played in place of Jackson at HB he played well and ran hard. He broke a lot of tackles, maybe more than Jackson, early on. When the coaches insisted he play fullback is when he injured his shoulders and just was not well suited physically to play a lead blocker.
Leonard was a terrific, versitle player in college and I was glad the Rams drafted him. In my mind he should have been used similar to the Michael Turner role (LaDanian Tomlinson's relief) and that seemed to be the case early on. It was not until they forced him to lead block guys that outweigh him by 80-100 lbs he became injury prone.
I'd like to see him just run the plays they call for Jackson (one-two punch) like Carolia does with Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams next season. I Believe if the Rams do that he'll have a resurgence and justify the second round pick. Have you spoken to Leonard? Would he agree with this? What do you think |
| Jim Thomas: Leonard does have some size and he does run hard. But I think the Rams are looking for an upgrade. Keep in mind, in college Leonard lost his starting job at HB to Ray Rice. |
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Gabriel 2 Snow: Hello Jim, if Haz is retained, I hope some assistants get shown the door. With the season still going, we can't single people out too much, but how extensive do you think his coaching staff changes might be?
Also, and this is a petty issue, but others have brought it up. I was never a fan of the gold pants, glad we aren't seeing them. |
Jim Thomas: Let me just put it this way: If Haslett's back, I wouldn't be surprised to see a new offensive coordinator, new defensive coordinator, and new special teams coach.
I'm told, Chip Rosenbloom doesn't like the gold pants. |
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osully5040: Jim;
Please try to give some insight as to why Shaw and Zygmunt are not only still around Rams Park but unfortunately may have significant input in the hiring of a new coach. Personal loyalty to the Rosenblooms aside, it is just unfathomable those two stooges have remained in their present positions for so long. George Boone and old Bill Bidwill have nothing on Shaw and Zygmunt when it comes to incompetence. Thanks.
Tom O'Sullivan
Columbia, MO |
Jim Thomas: To the best of my knowledge, Zygmunt will be gone at the end of the season. I've barely seen him around Rams Park since Linehan was fired.
To the best of my knowledge, Shaw will relinquish his president's title at the end of the season but remain as an advisor to Rosenbloom. |
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timothy: Hi Jim,
Are the reports that you are hearing is Haslett will be back, even though Ownership told him he had to win two more games. Is it because they are awaiting new ownership, so then they can deal with all of this.
Do you see Haslett playing more of the younger players to see how they do in game situations, since are not going to the playoffs?
And do you know what their flexibility is for free agency? |
Jim Thomas: As I reported on Sunday, since my original story on the "two-win" edict, very reliable sources at Rams Park have told me that the "two-win" deal was more a strong suggestion than an out-and-out mandate. If Haslett fails to win two more games (and he's got just two more games to do so) that doesn't necessarily eliminate him from consideration. And if he would win the last two games, that doesn't necessarily guarantee him the job either. Since that story, I have been told that other factors will be involved (although I'm not sure what those factors are).
Haslett IS playing a lot of younger players. About as many as he can. (Although Greco didn't play from scrimmage Sunday.)
The Rams are in decent but not great shape cap-wise for next season. |
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wv ram: What do you think are Saunders strong points as a coach? His weak points?
wv ram |
Jim Thomas: Saunders is detail-oriented. He's a positive thinker. Yet I've seen him jump on players, too, to hold them accountable. He has a play in that playbook for all situations. Those are all positives.
As for negatives, I think the playbook may be too voluminous, particularly for younger players (like all the Rams young wide receivers). I don't know how well some players connect to his personality. And there certainly have been some strange play-calling sequences as we saw on the Rams' final series of day against Seattle. |
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Ed from Vancouver Canada: HELLO JIM;
A) Do you think Billy Devaney, will get the Pez title along w/ the GM???
B) How many more hires will Billy D bring to the front office
C) Is Shaw included in the hiring process of any personnel thats forthcoming this off season still???
D) What are the odds of Haslett retaining the coaching job this week???
E) How would you handle this off season if your Chip
Thanks for your time as always |
Jim Thomas: 1.) Don't know about the PREZ title, but he's going to have a lot more power.
2.) I think he wants to beef up the pro personnel department. If Zygmunt is indeed gone, there could be at least one person brought in to handle cap issues and contract negotiations.
3.) Not entirely sure on this one, but I believe Shaw will sit in on the final interview for the head-coaching hire.
4.) I say it's down to 40-60 after the Seattle loss.
5.) Get a lot of good players. |
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newyorkram!: Jim,
Do you have any idea what the higher ups at Rams Park think of Alex Barron? Does Devaney like him? In your opinion, will Barron be a Ram next year?
Thanks |
| Jim Thomas: The sense I get is that they're disappointed in Barron. He hasn't really reached his potential. He doesn't appear stout enough and physical enough at the point of attack. They don't see much passion for the game in him. And then, of course, there was showing up late for a 10:30 a.m. meeting. I think they'd like to replace him. |
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ap4041: I'm sorry if this has been discussed to death, but what are the rams saying about Jacob Bell's apparent shrinking? Does Bell talk at all about why he isn't NEARLY as big as he was last year?
thanks |
| Jim Thomas: Sorry, but I'm going to have to keep you in suspense on this one for a few more days. I plan to have a story on this in the next few days. |
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Darren: Why don't I hear the name Brian Billick as a head coaching canidate around the league? His overall record was pretty good and he didn't forget how to coach. Just curious.
If Haslett is let go my top choice for Rams head coach is Raheem Morris - DB coach of the Bucs.
I'm against bringing in someone who has been a long time co-ordinator. If they haven't moved up the coaching ranks fast and stayed a co-ordinator a long time there is probably a good reason why. Raheem Morris has went from starting coaching in 98 to being a NFL head coaching canidate in 10 years. I'd like to see the Rams catch this rising star and ride it as far as he can take us.
I just hope if the Rams fire Haslett and hire someone else they do it fast so there is as much time as possible for the new head coach to evaluate the Rams players, draft choices and potential free agents. Lots of work to do this offseason no matter who the coach is. |
Jim Thomas: Here's the problem. If the Rams are interested in say a Jim Schwartz (Tennesee def. coordinator). Or a Steve Spagnuolo (NY Giants DC), they must wait until those teams are eliminated from the playoffs before they can hire them. And what if their candidate coach has his team in the Super Bowl? Then it's see you in February.
As for Billick, good question. His overall track record was good in Baltimore. But for a guy hired as an offensive guru, he never got much out of the offense's there. Plus, his relationship with the press wasn't good and eventually got him in trouble with the owner. |
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| Tackleberry: Is Atogwe a legit player or is he just good for a few key plays? |
| Jim Thomas: I'm not saying he's Ronnie Lott. I'd still like to see him be more consistent in coverage, and do better with open field tackling. But he's pretty good. Playmakers are hard to find. He's a very hard worker. And I think he remains an ascending player. |
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cracengl: Jim,
Do any direct methods exist to inform Mr. Rosenbloom that status quo in the front office is not acceptable to fans? One would think that a half empty stadium would do the trick, but the more I keep hearing, the more it becomes apparent that it needs to be spelled out for him. If Shaw stays, I go. |
| Jim Thomas: If you can, send me this message via e-mail, and I'll forward it to him. |
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Ed from Vancouver Canada: HELLO JIM;
When do you for see the Rams addressing the LB`s on draft day. I think it should go OT,OC,DE then MLB. Does this work for you as well
Ed |
| Jim Thomas: Good question. But I don't really know. Keep in mind, those other priorities could change significantly as well, depending on what happens in free agency. Remember, there are nearly two months of free agency before draft day. |
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| Rick R: Hey Jim does anyone know what the record for most cuts by a single team at the end of the year is? I believe this team could double it. Seattle stinks Seneca Wallace could be a pro bowler playing these clowns every week. Just had to vent some major frustration. Thanks. |
| Jim Thomas: Understand your frustration. I wouldn't be surprised if half or a little over half of this roster is turned over. |
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OCRich: 1. How can a team have that many false starts when they're playing at home in front of approximately 832 people? Absolutely ridiculous.
2. Why is Anthony Becht running patterns on 3rd and long situations? If you say he's in as a blocking tight end then fine. Let him block. Someone who watches game film told me last week he thought Greco was faster than Becht. He was only half joking.
3. On a positive note, Marc Bulger has looked like a competent NFL quarterback the last two weeks. What happened since the Miami game? Was it the proverbial "sometimes you gotta hit rock bottom" thing? He's had good protection the last two games, but he also had good protection against Miami and looked clueless.
4. How much have you seen of Calvin Johnson this year? Holy cow this guy is scary good. Give him a decent QB and he could be unstoppable.
Happy Holidays! |
Jim Thomas: 1.) Agreed.
2.) It is puzzling. But Fells makes a lot of mistakes, and you saw what happened with Klopfenstein. That's the state of the tight end position without McMichael.
3.)Bulger has looked better. I think the protection has something to do with it. So does a relatively healthy Steven Jackson.
4.) Have seen very little of him other than the stray highlight. But I'll see this: On more than one occasion last offseason as the '08 draft was approaching, someone in the Rams front office told me: "Why couldn't this be the year Calvin Johnson was coming out?"
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snowman: Hi Jim,
I'm wondering who is going to be our center next season. Do you know how Mark Setterstom's rehab is going? Both Romberg and Leckey will be free agents this offseason. Do you think the Rams will re-sign one of them? Which one? Could the Rams choose one with a second or third round pick in the draft?
Thank you,
snowman |
Jim Thomas: First I hard that Setterstrom's latest knee injury was career-threatening. That was a while back. But just in the last week or so I heard that he should be OK. But with his history of knee problems, you have to wonder.
I believe the Rams like Leckey better than Romberg, but as a backup.
Sure, they could find one at that point of the draft. But I know they're looking at some potential free agents as well. |
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SpecialTeamsGuy: Jim, I need your expertise on each of the following things. How would you describe the following things:
1. Donnie Jones' punting.
2. Gary Stills' special teams tackling.
3. Eric Bassey's coverage on special teams.
AND
4. The progress of the special teams as a whole. |
Jim Thomas: 1.) Excellent--although I'm told he did NOT make the Pro Bowl. (Unbelievable)
2.) Very good
3.) Good
4.) And Good |
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JustForMe: Thanks for your time Mr. Thomas. My questions:
1) Are the Rams going to allow Bartell and Atogwe to test the market?
2) Would a loss vs. the 49ers and interim Head Coach Mike Singletary be the final nail in Jim Haslett's head coaching coffin or has that ship sailed already? |
Jim Thomas: 1.) They'd like to sign them before free agency. But there's a chance if the Rams don't retain Haslett, that Bartell will try to follow him.
2.) I don't think the ship has already sailed, but they've blown the "all-aboard" whistle and removed the rope from the dock. |
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| Jim S.: Assuming Jim Haslett gets the job next year (big assumption at this point, I know), will he keep Al Saunders as O-Cordinator? What's the relationship like? I know the talent base here is thin at the moment, and injuries compound that problem, but wasn't A.S. a disciple of Mad Mike? Our offensive schemes seem so vanilla-kinda like every game is a 4th pre-season game. I know his resume is good, but I just dont see it here and now. Was I expecting too much after reading the hype of his hiring? |
Jim Thomas: I think Saunders' resume speaks for itself. And although things didn't go great at Washington, it now does not look like Jim Zorn has reinvented the wheel with the sagging Redskins.
I'll just stick with what I posted earlier. I wouldn't be surprised to see a change of coordinators (offense, defense, and special teams) if Haslett was retained. |
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| Ram57: We heard that there was a meeting between Shaw, Devaney and Haslett. Did this happen? What does it mean? |
| Jim Thomas: I don't think it was anything earth-shattering. It took place right after the Seattle game, in the coach's locker room at the Edward Jones Dome. I think Shaw wanted to get to know Haslett a little better and vice versa. It's not unusual for Shaw to visit with the head coach after a game. |
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4thandJuan: Hello again, Jim.
If the Rams are seeking a big RB to back up Jackson, why not Brian Leonard? He started a couple of games his rookie year, and showed he can rush for 100 yds. a game. Give him a decent offensive line, and who knows. |
| Jim Thomas: Pls. see earlier answer. Plus, I'll add this: Do the Rams have any reason to believe Leonard can stay healthy? Have his shoulder issues now reached the point where they might be considered chronic? |
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Ram Quixote: Jim, not really a question, but I'd appreciate your opinion on mine:
We keep reading from PD writers (not you) that no high-profile coach would want to come here; that the FO mess, the cheap owner, and the bad team means we'll get seconds or thirds out of the candidates. Those who say that are forgetting a couple things.
First, the FO is about to change, the new owner hasn't yet shown how far into his pockets he'll reach, and player personnel changes every offseason.
Second, why wouldn't an established coach want to take a job someplace that needs a makeover? That's an opportunity for anyone with an ego, and there are few people in the world more egotistical than NFL coaches. Hiring a good coach is also about salesmanship, and if you don't have confidence that the product will improve, why would a prospective coach?
Except for a few veterans, many whom may be gone by March, this is a young team that needs the HC to give it an identity. Who wouldn't want to mold young players into winners? Money isn't the only carrot.
As for Haslett, I like him but he hasn't been the answer. My biggest worry about keeping him is that he and Venturi are seemingly joined at the hip. They've had 3 years to figure out how to create a consistent D and failed. Note the word, consistent. Haslett seems a straight shooter, but his quotables have been too shifty lately.
It's time for someone else to pick through the Rams' road apples. |
| Jim Thomas: But what if there are seven, eight, nine head coaching jobs available. Would the Rams, with five victories in their last 30 games, rank very high on that pecking order? Particularly with a team that might be sold in a couple years. Don't forget that part of the equation. Say you sign a deal with the Rams to coach their team for four years, Rosenbloom sells the team in two years, and the new owner (who just spent half a billion for a majority share)wants to bring in his own guy? |
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Ram Quixote: One more rant, Jim. I won't take so much space.
Why do we have discuss Bulger anymore? Whether you like him or don't; think he'll bounce back or that he's done, there's no way around the cap hit. This team hasn't been consistently competitive the last 2 years. Bulger is a part of that futility, but calling for him to be replaced is pointless.
Even if they draft a sure-fire replacement in April, Bulger will be here and starting next September. Unless certain fans plan on rooting for him to fail, and our Rams, they might as well support him. |
Jim Thomas: Financially, there's no way that Bulger isn't back.
That's not to say that someone doesn't come in to compete with him for the job, even if it's a draft pick. |
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zeb: Hi Jim
Long distance Rams fan (Alaska) here. Aren't you the brilliant journalist who used to submit a weekly team report to Sporting News? What happened to that connection? That was some quality reporting and I miss reading them. |
| Jim Thomas: The Sporting News has changed its magazine format. But I still file regular reports to their on-line edition: www.sportingnewstoday.com |
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Yorkshire Rams Fan:
Hey Jim,
1) In your opinion, which O linemen have played themselves onto next years team? Or which will survive?
2) Do you think any of Greco, Scheuning, Vobora or Chamberlain have any potential as starters in the NFL?
3) Do you think we can turn over enough players in the off season to make this team a wild card possibility for next season?
4) Do you think Devaney understands where this team should be heading as far as player personnel goes? We have seen a number of off seasons recently where we hve pursued the wrong ideas. Have we finally realised that we must get size back into this team?
5) Finally, Jim Haslett 2009 HC of the Rams, yes or no?
Thanks for your time,
Rich |
Jim Thomas: 1.) The only ones I would say for sure among the starters are Bell and Incognito. (And of course, with a new coach, that could change.)
2.) Of the group, I'd say Greco for sure.
3.) Yes, particularly in this division. But that's going to entail overpaying for some free agents, sticking to the game plan, and making wise draft choices. And having a strong backup to Jackson at running back.
4.) It looks like he has very defined ideas. (But it's not his money--in terms of free agents.)
5.) I'll stick to my earlier odds on this one: 40-60. |
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Rich: Good afternoon Jim,
Do you see the Rams making a serious push to upgrade the corner position in the off-season through free agency and/or the draft?
I realize the Rams are between a rock and a hard place with virtually every servicable DB up for free agency and big time questions with the guys under contract.
However, this group has gone from a position of strength to one of the weakest links on the team.
I also say the Rams priority should be to retain Bartell and Craft before turning to OJ. There is no denying he is a turn-over machine; however, there is also no denying he has been a liability in coverage and misses way too many open field tackles.
Thanks for these chats. |
| Jim Thomas: The Rams have made no secret that Bartell is a top priority. (And Atogwe as well.) I think Craft falls into the category that they will re-sign him if the price is right. Othwerwise, there's Justin King who's starting to do some jogging and running _ his rehab is on schedule _ and he should be fine for all the offseason stuff. And there's Tye Hill, who has to get his knee right and his head right. So I'm sure they'll be looking around, either via free agency or the draft. |
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Rich: Good afternoon Jim,
Do you see the Rams parting ways with Leonard Little?
There is no questioning his heart and I won't deny the fact when he is on the field, he has proven to be a disruptive force.
The problem is his body is falling apart and he has had a lot of problems staying on the field this year. Those five sacks cost the Rams a whole lot of money.
Thanks again for these chats. |
Jim Thomas: With Haslett back, I think Little stays.
Although his cap number is high ($7.6 million) _ the Rams are on the hook for $5.1 million of that figure even if he's cut or traded. He's due to make $845,000 in base salary next year, plus a roster bonus of $1.655 million. So that's a relatively modest $2.5 million. With greater needs in other areas, and with those kind of somewhat favorable economics, Little could come back. |
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jkgeorge: Jim,
Good Afternoon,
With the recent QB play and the younger WR's we have has the Al Saunders offense been simplified to aid them. Quicker reads, less plays etc.
Same question for the defense.
If not why haven't we? The O line play has been better the last few weeks and in my opinion we should have blasted Seattles weak secondary. The playcalling still looked the same, sometimes simpler is better.
Thanks for all you do.
John |
Jim Thomas: To my knowledge, I don't think anything has been simplified on offense.
The o-line's pass blocking has been better. But not the run blocking. |
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George M.: Hi, Jim:
Saw my first game this year at the Ed Sunday, and when the Rams were on offense, I could isolate my attention on Holt. He ran his patterns whenever he was the primary receiver, but seemed to jog them when he wasn't. Either he won't, or more likely can't, run the pattern on every pass play. I have been thinking Bulger wasn't progressing through his reads, but if Holt isn't the primary receiver, he just isn't there. The safeties seem to be reading this and rolling away if Holt is the only receiver on his side and doesn't sprint off the line. Have you noticed this? |
| Jim Thomas: Geez. No I haven't. But if that's the case, that's not good. I do know, Holt made a couple of impressive grabs and turned a top-flight corner, Marcus Trufant, into a pretzel on a couple of occasions. |
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Ashamed Rams Fan: Jim,
Haslett's body of work since being hired by Linehan in my opinion hasn't been enough to warrant the headcoaching job. For the last 3 years his defense continues to make the same mistakes over and over and over and rank near the bottom of the league. He stuck with players Chavous and Witherspoon in the middle. He would say after the games that if it weren't for a couple of big plays here and there we did ok. He hasn't instilled a toughness to the defense in all three years. He has very little impact with half time adjustments...in fact it seems he gets outcoached.
To me good coaches get the most out of the players they have (Bellichik, Parcells, Cower, and now even Singletary) Haslett isn't one of those type of coaches. I really hope we seriously consider someone else and that Shaw is not part of the process.
Thanks. |
Jim Thomas: Well, you certainly state the case against Haslett.
But I think you have to factor in that most of the players aren't his _ even to some degree on defense _ that he's never had this team through training camp as a head coach, that he's trying to break some terrible habits in 12 weeks' time, and that the offensive coordinator and special teams coach were not his choices. |
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| Dave: Hi Jim, Is there any chance the Rams would hire Dick Vermiel in some sort of consulting role with the team?? I think his Knowledge and respect around the league could only help. Thanks for your time and Merry Christmas to you and your family!!! |
| Jim Thomas: At the time that Linehan was fired at the end of September, just such a scenario was being discussed by the Rams hierarchy. But nothing ever came of it. Vermeil has since told me, that if approached by the Rams, he will at least listen. |
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Mike E: Hey Jim-
I live in VA and watch all the Rams games on NFL Sunday Ticket. Over the last 3 games, I have noticed that Chris Long is not on the field on the majority of 3rd downs, especially obvious passing downs. At first, I thought I was imagining it, but I have watched every play of these games twice now. I would think that the coaching staff would want the kid getting as many reps as possible to improve his technique. Can you shed some light on what the coaches are thinking here? |
Jim Thomas: Last Sunday's game was a little bit of an aberration because the team played so much of a three-man front. There were less reps for all of the d-linemen, because they used only three instead of four. And in their 3-man front on passing downs, it's usually Little, Glover, and Hall (who's a little bit bigger than Long.)
I do know that for the first 12 games of the season, Long was used a lot on passing downs. |
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| elderamfan: I believe that a team can never have enough defensive backs. Do the Rams have first shot at signing Ricky Manning Jr. and are they interested in doing so? Do you think the Rams can get another year out of Leonard Little and James Hall? They seemed to have their moments this year. What was your opinion of Cliff Ryan's play this year? |
Jim Thomas: My sense is that it's an either/or thing with Craft and Manning as the nickel back. And Craft runs better than Manning. (As good as Craft has been as a blitzer out of the slot, Manning is even better I think, and a very phsyical player.)
I do think the Rams can get another year out of both Little and Hall _ and the money for both is reasonable.
I was hoping for a little more out of Ryan. |
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Preston Martin: Hi Jim,
I'm going to my first rams game ever this Sunday against the 49ers, in order to get the ultimate edward jones dome experience what should I do? Please don't give me a lame answer like "not go" or "close your eyes" I know the rams are bad but this is my first chance to go to a game. thanks! |
Jim Thomas: There are tents and other areas right outside the dome that have music and entertaintment, and seem like their fun. The dome doors open an hour and a half before kickoff, so if you get in early, you can watch some of the pregame warmup which I think can be interesting.
If last week was any indication, there's only going to be about 45,000 fans in attendance. Some show up late and leave early, but I must say, the fans that were there for Seattle got into the game and supported their team right to the end. Sure, they booed at times. But can you blame them?
I've always thought the sightlines were very good at the dome, even in the upper deck, compared to most stadiums. The sound system is bad. The place is too dark. But look at it this way, you get to see Isaac Bruce in his first game back in St. Louis since his release by the Rams. |
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| Tom: Hello Jim; Wondering what is up with Vobora? I think Hasslet said something about getting a look at some of the young guys and Vobora looked pretty decent in his one start. Is Draft considered a big part of the future? Thanks, Tom |
| Jim Thomas: Vobora didn't play that great. He missed a couple tackles, got knocked to the ground a couple times, and wasn't all that strong at the point of attack. (But that's not to say he can't improve in the future.) He did bring some energy, and flowed to the ball pretty well. Draft could be the starting middle linebacker next season if the Rams can't find an upgrade elsewhere. |
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Tom: Hi Jim, 2 quick questions.
1)Do the Rams feel comfortable going into next year letting the WR contingent of Avery, Burton, Stanley develop with possibly the return of Bennet and Randy McMichael? Or would you expect them to retain Holt or sign/draft someone else.
2)How would you evaluate the progress of Chris Long and do the people around Rams park feel confident he will develop into more of a force next year? |
Jim Thomas: 1.) That's a good question. I think they'd like to add another big receiver to the mix. They're not counting on Bennett for next season. Myself, I think they need to bring HOlt back.
2.) About nine, 10 games into the season, I would've said that Long was performing better than I thought he would. He's since tailed off, although he played better last week. Maybe he's hitting the rookie wall. Keep in mind, Wistrom barely played as a rookie, so Long is that much ahead of the game. |
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JJ in Indy: Hello Jim,
Is there any indication on how the rams may rebuild for next year?
As far as free agancy, any quality player will have to be paid well above market to come to the rams. With are less then stellar free agent history this approach seems a little risky. Honestly even for big bucks who would want to come here.
As for the draft, do you see us unloading any players, if we even have any, that could bring us more picks in the early to mid-rounds? It would be great to see more energy and just a better vibe on this team that a good group of young players can bring.
Lastly, how long after the season ends do you see chip making a decision on a coach so we can get this franchise moving in the right direction?
Thanks |
| Jim Thomas: Stay tuned. . . .it's all about to happen. |
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MarkT: Jim,
You do a great job reporting here and on the radio. I turn to you and the PD first for all of my Rams info. Kind of a different question but are there any other local or national writers that you read every day? Thanks and Merry Christmas to you and the family. |
Jim Thomas: I love the job that Jeff Legwold does covering the Broncos (and the draft) for the Rocky Mountain News. Tom Silverstein and Bob McGinn are a terrific tandem covering the Packers for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Matt Maiocco is very underrated covering the 49ers for the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. And Jimmy Wyatt is all over the Tennessee Titans for the Tennessean in Nashville. These are just a few of my favorite beat writers from around the country. You can check them out at www.theredone.org.
Nationally, there's Mike Sando and John Clayton at ESPN.com, Pete Prisco at CBSsports.com, and Rick Gosselin with the Dallas Morning News. Again, these are just a few. |
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| Gabriel 2 Snow: Do you anticipate any interest in Carl Peterson? If it is a possibility, what is your opinion of Peterson and how would his duties mesh with Billy D's? |
| Jim Thomas: I do not see any interest in Peterson here. |
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Preston Martin: Hi Jim,
The TE we picked up seems to be a keeper, what do you think? |
| Jim Thomas: Fells has some talent, but right now he doesn't look quite ready. He still makes a lot of mistakes, the coaches tell me. |
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rockintheburbs: Jim,
I have not heard much of Jacob Bell this year is that a good thing or is he a free agent bust? What grade would you give his play so far this season and why? |
| Jim Thomas: I've looked at tape of about 10 of the 14 games. I think Bell has played better lately. Overall, I'd grade him about a C+. Obviously, for $36 million you want more than that. |
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| Ramsfan: Is there any chance of a tv sellout this weekend? I mean there are only 16 games a year and eight at home and its a long wait from season to season. Go Rams!!! |
| Jim Thomas: There are even more unsold tickets for this game than there was last week for Seattle. So it definitely looks like another blackout. |
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dfwramsfan: Hey Jim,
With Pace and Barron playing a bit better as late, does a BIG starting DT become higher priority than possible back-up OT?
How do you feel about drafting a Center of the future in day one? |
Jim Thomas: No, my sense is that offensive tackle is the top priority.
The Rams need a starting center, either via free agency or the draft.
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| David: Jim - Obviously Marc Bulger will be here in 2009, but who do you see as REALISTIC possibilities to push him and compete with him next year. Rookies, FA's, guys on the street? Thanks! |
| Jim Thomas: Good question. I think that's the plan _ to at least draft a bonafide QB of the future. |
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| Ed Johnson: What do you think of maybe Jimmie Johnson getting back into the Coaching areana? Is George Seifert still around and would he be interested? |
| Jim Thomas: Jimmy Johnson certainly has the touch, but I think he's pretty comfortable with the TV stuff. I don't know what's up with Seifert; keep in mind, he turned the Rams down back in '97. |
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| kevin bryant: did u see the contract extension corey webster just signed with the giants? u have to think the rams will be kicking themselves for not gettin early deals done with atogwe and bartell with contracts like that available. by the way i checked websters stats his and bartells are very similar |
| Jim Thomas: AGREED! The longer you wait, the closer you get to free agency, the more the prices go up. |
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| Petey123: Jim, do you know what the upgrades to the dome will be? |
| Jim Thomas: I'll try to check. And if you don't see a story on this sometime in January, February, etc., please keep reminding me. I think there's some talk about new Jumbotrons, and trying to get some natural light in the stadium. |
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Youngblood fan 4ever: Jim, a question outside of Rams football regarding the rules of the game. All of the talk centering around the questionable call at the end of the Steelers/Ravens game regarding the ball breaking the plane.
I was under the assumption that if you are running the ball into the endzone, the ball needs to break the plane, but if you are making a reception, all you need is two feet and possesion (not necessarily having the ball in the end zone). Hence how can all the great touchdowns where the receiver is dragging his feet in the endzone while making the catch with the ball out of bounds? Is it because, in theory the ball passed through the endzone in the air prior to making the catch??
If you can, please clarify for me.
Thanks and thanks for keeping the faith. Go RAMS!! |
| Jim Thomas: Wow! You've got me on this one. |
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UCityDave: Jim -
Thanks for the forum. As you know, Isaac Bruce returns to the Dome on Sunday. The way the season has played out, some significant milestones will be within his reach during the game.
He needs just 6 catches to become only the fourth person in NFL history to catch 1,000 balls. (He's caught at least 6 balls in 3 of his last 4 games.)
He needs only 59 yards to pass Tim Brown for second on the all-time NFL receiving yards list. (He's had 60 yards or more 5 times this year, including the last 4 games in a row.)
He needs only 125 yards to become just the second person in NFL history to amass 15,000 career receiving yards. (He's had 125 yards or more twice this year.)
My question is, do you think the team understands that some of the people who bother to show up might be there to see these events, and they might want them to be memorialized (or at least noticed) if they occur?
We've already missed a lot because of someone's short-sighted decision to save $500k or $1MM out of a $118MM salary cap. Playing in a 49er uniform, Ike has passed Irving Fryar, Andre Rison, Mark Clayton, Tommy McDonald, Paul Warfield, Lance Alworth, Andre Reed and Don Maynard on the all-time receiving TD list. He's putting the capstone on a Hall of Fame career. Shame we only get to see him play once a year now. It would have given us something worthwhile to follow in an otherwise dismal season.
P.S. Anything on Jacob Bell's weight loss? |
Jim Thomas: I'm told the Rams won't even announce the milestones in the press box, much less on the stadium P.A., because the 49ers wouldn't announce some Rams milestones when the teams played in Candlestick last month.
But to me, it will be a special moment. I don't care how many more years and how many more teams Isaac plays for, he will always be a Ram. Rest assured, Mike Martz will do everything he can to get Bruce the milestones in St. Louis.
If it were up to me, I would've kept Bruce for the final year of his Rams contract (through '08) and let him work with the Teen Squad. |
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arnezzi: same question I asked Gordo:
Can we agree that whoever the Rams pick in the first round must start from Day 1?
If so, is OT such a problem that the Rams are really ready to put Pace or Barron on the sideline, if not on the street before next year?
The franchise needs to sell tickets. Why in the world would it think about drafting Crabtree at WR when it could make a huge PR plus by drafting Jeremy Maclin? Or has Holt's recent rejuvenation made WR less worrisome?
How about a LB? |
Jim Thomas: Yes--Anyone taken that high (with the possible exception of a QB) has to start on Day 1.
Yes--The Rams feel they need to upgrade the offensive tackle position.
I think the Rams really like Maclin. |
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Mr. Smith: Hey JT, thanks for answering my question
As far as game planning goes I thought the rams did a good job in the first half against the hawks. The second half was of course a different story. My question is does Al Saunders make the second half adjustments on offense of does Haslett? Im just trying to put a finger on who to blame for some of the boring and lax play calling. |
Jim Thomas: Well, I'd be a liar if I told you I knew the answer exactly. But I do believe Haslett does a lot of deferring to Saunders. Because of Haslett's past duties as defensive coordinator, he never had the chance to learn the Saunders offense, particularly some of the terminology. And that's something that's hard to pick up midstream.
That's not to say, however, that Haslett can't say--Hey, we need to run the ball more. Or, hey, let's go deep. Etc. |
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JustME: Hello Jim Thomas.
1) How did Scott Linehan ever beat out Ron Rivera?
2) Has anyone in the media talked to Linehan since his departure?
3) Would the Rams have any interest in former Redskins DC Gregg Williams?
4) Do you have a radio show? |
Jim Thomas: 1.) I think Rivera was runner-up. And if I remember correctly, the main concern about Rivera was that he didn't have clearcut ideas (or good enough answers) on staffing, particularly on offense. The Rams also felt it would be easier to hire an offensive-oriented head coach (and have him hire a competent defensive coordinator) than hire a defensive-oriented head coach (and have him hire a competent offensive coordinator).
2.) Not that I'm aware of. I've left some phone messages for him, but haven't heard back.
3.) Haven't heard his name come up. They did have interest in him a few years ago.
4.) I'm on several times weekly on the Bernie Miklasz Show (which airs 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on 1380 AM). I'm usually on in either the 4 o'clock or 5 o'clock hour.)
On game days, I usually do a pregame segment on 1380 as well, usually sometime between 10:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. |
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MadGoat: Hey Jim,
I feel bad for Haslett. I'm not sure Vince Lombardi could fire the current Rams roster up on game day.
I think the current roster has some talented veteran guys who aren't very "firery" in their approach and it shows on game day.
In free agency and on draft day the front office has to start bringing in guys who can help get the rest of the team in line as well. The Rams miss having Faulk and Bruces' competitiveness just as much as their talent.
If you get that kind of competitive leadership the rest of the roster looks a whole lot better. Guys like Barron and Incognito suddenly become key pieces to the puzzle instead of part of the problem.
I don't know how teams find these guys, but I know that teams like the Steelers and Patriots find them over and over, so there must be a way.
Either way, it doesn't matter who the head coach is if this part of the team isn't addressed. |
Jim Thomas: I'm a big believer that in the NFL, leaders have to be guys that produce on the field. But there's no doubt that in QB Marc Bulger, LT Orlando Pace and even WR Torry Holt _ they don't have personalities that you would call them natural, vocal leaders. Somebody like a fiery London Fletcher would fit in very nicely, particularly on defense.
As for Faulk and Bruce, that competitiveness helped make them great players. They cared about not just being good, but being the best. The current Rams have plenty of players who care, but not enough that care enough to want to be the best, in my opinion. |
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ncdc: Hey Jim!
When will Chip come on here and conduct a chat with us? THAT would be interesting!!!!! |
| Jim Thomas: Funny you mention that. In a recent conversation I made just such a proposal. Although Chip seems very interested in what the fan base is thinking _ I think he thought I was kidding. I'll try to run it by him again. |
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| Jake: Jim, did you hear about the Torry Holt interference call on Sunday? The Springfield, IL newspaper published an article stating the the ref who made the call, made the call based on what he saw on the "jumbo-tron." What is it with refs these days? |
Jim Thomas: Yeah, we wrote about. The Rams sent the play in for review by the league.
Not just in Rams games but throughout the league, I've never seen pass interference, defensive holding and illegal contact called so unevenly as it has been this season. I know they're judgment calls, but the lack of consistency _ and the wide range of interpretation _ is appalling to me.
Also there's what I call the Pujols factor. If a proven star like Albert Pujols let's a borderline 2-2 pitch go by, more often than not it's called a ball by the umpire.
But Holt seems to get treated like a practice squad guy just called up to the active roster by refs. No respect. My lord, do you see how Moss and Owens push off on defenders routinely and nothing gets called? It's amazing. Holt is a seven-time Pro Bowler. No one has caught more passes for more yards this decade than him. Yet, no respect from the refs. |
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coachdickieV: Jim How you doing Baby !!
As a PSL owner, I hope management realizes many ticket holders
need to see major improvements to justify shelling out hard
earn money in a bad economy.
The sad thing is you can throw a dart at the rams football positions
on the wall and justify needing the FA / Draft Pick where the dart stuck. |
| Jim Thomas: This may sound goofy, but even more so than what happens with the head coach, I think the fans need to see some MAJOR personnel moves. |
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Sven: Hey J-T:
Long time reader, first time writer. Enjoyed your slant since you were covering the Tigers. Changes are obvious for the team, but too many holes need to be filled. What area of the team would you concentrate 1st, 2nd, 3rd etc and why? Second with the current executive team in place, can such an overhaul be possible? I'll disconnect and read off line. |
Jim Thomas: Boy, the Tigers!!! You're going back nearly 20 years now.
1.) Offensive tackle
2.) Center
3.) Middle linebacker
4.) Secondary (this goes up if both Bartell and Atogwe aren't re-signed)
5.) Strong No. 2 running back
As for the why, it's painfully obvious the Rams need to get bigger and more physical up front on the offensive line. They also need a bonafide middle linebacker, someone with some size who can take on blockers. In the secondary, there are so many players whose contracts expire at the end of the year, that they need to add another cover corner and try to retain still young, still ascending players such as Bartell and Atogwe. And because of Jackson's injury problems the past two seasons, the Rams need some better insurance to avoid such a steep dropoff if he's sidelined.
Yes, I think under Devaney such an overhaul is possible. And I think Chip Rosenbloom is committed to making things right. |
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ramcat: Hi Jim;
Any news on what the Rams will do with the roster spot Stanley maintained until he was IR'd? I have a friend who has some insides to the Bucs team, and he swears Dre Moore is kicking ass, and would be a good steal for some team. With Wroten likely gone, any chance the Rams might attempt to steal a young promising player off a practice squad. Also, really liked Darrell Robertson DE, although not sure what practice squad he's on now.
Thanks, Jim |
Jim Thomas: The Rams are talking to WR-return man Skylar Green, the former LSU player now on New Orleans' practice squad. But the Saints are trying to keep him in New Orleans and as of now, Green's status is still up in the air.
With that I'm out of here. Time to work on some newspaper stuff. See you next week for the last chat of the regular season. |
