--------------------
May 16 11:45am
Rams Preseason Schedule Announced
Saturday, August 9
St. Louis @ Tennessee 7pm
Saturday, August 16
San Diego @ St. Louis 7pm
Saturday, August 23
Baltimore @ St. Louis 7pm
Thursday, August 28
St. Louis @ Kansas City 7pm
--------------------
May 16
Martz Satisfied with Investigation
According to Mike Reiss on boston.com, Mike Martz released the following statement Thursday evening, through the San Francisco 49ers, where he is serving as offensive coordinator:
"I had the opportunity to talk to Commissioner [Roger] Goodell yesterday and I was very satisfied with the NFL’s efforts to investigate the situation with Matt Walsh as it related to Super Bowl XXXVI. I’m very confident that there was no impropriety. I believed Bill Belichick when he said there wasn’t and I took that at face value.
"Let me make this clear – we lost to the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl because we turned the ball over three times. If there was anything obtained from our walk-thru from a casual observer that happened to be present, then that was just part of those walk-thrus and that environment. What I’ve said all along and what my only concerns were if A): If the walk-thru was filmed or B): If it was purposely scouted for information. If so, then that is an issue that the league needs to pursue. I’m very satisfied that this was not the situation in this instance whatsoever.
"I was stunned at Matt Walsh’s allegation that he was on the sideline in New England Patriots apparel during our walk-thru. I find that insulting, disturbing and a slap in the face to both our team security and NFL security, who both do outstanding jobs. I promise you that if he was on the sideline, he was not in New England Patriots apparel because he would have been identified.
"This whole issue is based on statements made by Matt Walsh, and I think we have to understand that.
"I’m very grateful for Commissioner Goodell to take the time to talk to me about this. It’s time to put this situation behind us.”
--------------------
May 13
Patriots React To Goodell-Walsh Meeting
The New England Patriots released a statement in response to the meeting between former video assistant Matt Walsh and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday.
"We want to address the allegation that the Patriots taped the Rams' walkthrough prior to Super Bowl 36. For the past three-and-a-half months, we have been defending ourselves against assumptions made based on an unsubstantiated report rather than on facts or evidence."
"Despite our adamant denials, the report ran on February 2, 2008, the day before Super Bowl 42. That game was the second-most watched program in television history and it is unfortunate that today's news will not also reach an audience of that size. We hope that with Matt Walsh's disclosures, everyone will finally believe what we have been saying all along and emphatically stated on the day of the initial report: 'The suggestion that the New England Patriots recorded the St. Louis Rams' walkthrough on the day before Super Bowl 36 in 2002 is absolutely false. Any suggestion to the contrary is untrue.'"
After the meeting, Goodell said Walsh knew of no attempt by the Pats to record the final Rams walkthrough as had been reported. The commissioner added that things said by Walsh during the meeting were consistent with what the league already knew.
--------------------
May 13
Rams Choose Training Camp Site
According to Bill Coats of STLToday.com, the Rams have chosen to hold training camp at Concordia University in Mequon, Wisconsin.
The club is delaying an official announcement until all details are completed.
Coats wrote that Mequon is situated about 15 miles north of downtown Milwaukee, on the shores of Lake Michigan, approximately 395 miles from St. Louis.
Concordia is a liberal arts institution with an enrollment of about 6,000. It is among 10 colleges or universities in the Concordia University System, which is owned and operated by The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
--------------------
May 12
Saunders Recaps Mini-Camp
Rams Offensive Coordinator Al Saunders joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Al said that one of the things the coaches talked about was playing fast and getting faster players on the team so that is why
they tried to set the tempo this weekend by practicing fast. He said that people need to "practice how to practice."
"We wanted to set a standard of expectation," Saunders said.
Al said he was happy to see Torry Holt and Marc Bulger again, and he was glad the new players bought into the coaches' philosophy.
Saunders said to play at the World Championship level, you have to play higher than you think you can, and that is what we expressed in camp. The more guys who buy into it, the better we are going to be.
Al is excited about Torry Holt and Drew Bennett. He said that Torry is a great player and Pro Bowler and he brings a lot to the table, but he knows he can get better too.
He said that Bennett has to play better and they talked about it. He has the capability in him to make big plays. It is our responsibility to ask players to do what they can do and not ask them to do something they aren't capable of doing.
Donnie Avery has a way to go yet, but he can run fast and showed some good moves. "We are really excited about having him." It is so difficult for receivers to make an impact right away in the NFL because the game is a lot different than college. Al said that the Rams' offense is designed to beat man to man coverage, and we need our receivers to be able to separate and change direction. Avery can do that. Saunders said he remembered when Holt got drafted, and he had a large learning curve. He also said that rookies wear out because the
season is long beginning with training camps.
Saunders said that fans will be excited about both Avery and Keenon Burton. "You are going to remember (Burton's) name; this kid has some talent," he said.
Al said everything starts upfront with protection and the running game. "The offensive line will be key for us," Al said. "I told the quarterback his only job is to get the ball in the hands of the play makers."
Saunders is really excited to have Steve Loney coaching the O-line, and he said that the team is not there yet, but it has great potential.
Al said he saw Alex Barron for 3 days on the practice field, and he thinks that he has great talent. He said that the coaches have to make sure he is consistent and plays at the highest level he can.
I haven't been around him long enough to see his negatives,
Al said he knows Billy Devaney is looking to upgrade the roster anytime he can, and Saunders is all for adding offensive lineman if one is available.
Al said that they need to use the players they have and play to their strengths, and the beauty of his offensive system is that they can get the best players they have on the field and
Marc Bulger has been there every single day, and Al is excited to work with Marc.
The coaching staff had a couple of margaritas on Cinco De Mayo, and it is a real tight group. Scott did a great job putting the group together.
--------------------
May 11
Rams Wrap Up Mini-Camp
--------------------
May 10
Mini-Camp Day 2 Press Conferences
--------------------
May 9
Mini-Camp Day 1 Press Conferences
Click for Scott Linehan's Transcript
Click for Chris Long's Transcript
--------------------
May 9
Jim Thomas Mini-Camp Update
Post-Dispatch Rams beat writer Jim Thomas
joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on Friday afternoon live from Rams Park.
Thomas said that Scott Linehan told him he was unaware if the Rams were close to signing Chris Long, but Thomas said he can't see them not getting the deal done very soon.
The rookies were thrown right into the fire today, and Chris Long blew by Alex Barron (who was playing LT) in a drill today. Jim said that one of the coaches thought Barron was a street free agent at first because of how he got beat, but then realized it was the former #1 pick of the Rams.
Second round pick Donnie Avery was very fast and made some nice catches for a good start. Fourth round pick Keenan Burton looked very quick as well, and may be a pleasant surprise according to Thomas.
Leonard Little was cleared for team drills, but both he and Adam Carriker were very limited today.
Two players not in attendance today were center Dustin Fry who is getting married this weekend because he thought it would be a rookie only camp, and left tackle Rob Petitti has a torn achilles tendon.
If any of the rookies were signed already, they would count in the number on the roster, but since none are signed, the Rams have 85 players in camp.
It might take a couple weeks into camp to see if the players' relationship with Scott Linehan is any different, but he seems much more relaxed. Thomas said he saw Linehan walking off the field with Chris Long smiling and he's getting along pretty well with the other players.
It was vintage Al Saunders going stride for stride with the receivers on some of the routes. He is in excellent shape and his energy on the field has not subsided since last time he was in St. Louis. Al's offense will be much more complex than what the players saw in Linehan's playbook.
Thomas said in the past few years the Rams had one rookie camp and one veteran camp, but there were never more than 28-30 players so they never had enough players for all the positions. Linehan wanted to get a sense of urgency going, and the players are going to get some extensive football earlier this year.
Jim said that the Rams have their eye on the Tampa Bay roster because they have 7 quarterbacks, because they want to have 4 in camp. This might not be something we see till early or mid July though.
Thomas was told by someone upstairs at Rams Park that they kept watching Felix Jones drop in the draft, and Jim thinks they would've taken him at #33 to back up Stephen Jackson. There is some mutual interest in Tampa Bay's Michael Pittman and the Rams also. Jim think Travis Minor is strictly a special teams player. Right now it comes down to how they will use Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard.
--------------------
May 8
Billy Devaney Talks about Rams
Rams VP of Player Personnel Billy Devaney joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Thursday afternoon.
Billy said that it isn't unrealistic for one of the other draft picks (besides Chris Long) to make the team as a starter. He said they try not to get too high or low on a player because so much can happen between mini-camps and training camp and the preseason. Some guys have different learning curves.
The expectations are high for Chris Long because he is such a smart player, and Billy doesn't think the learning curve will be very long for him. He said the sackmaster is on the right side in a normal defense, and he thinks Chris can be that guy. Devaney thinks that Long could be very good playing either side, and he is very good against the run.
"(Long) better get some sacks or that 'rock star' status will go away quick," he said.
Devaney said he can't stress enough how hard it is to start in the NFL. There are a lot of different aspects that you have to put together. The Rams don't expect any of the draft picks to come in right away and play like they did in college because there is a learning curve for everyone.
Devaney said Alex Barron is a big guy with athletic ability, and he is getting better every year. Barron's a smart guy and these guys take care of themselves these days. All these guys are professionals and know what is at stake so they do a good job preparing for the season.
"If (Barron) keeps working, he can be as good as he wants to be," he said.
The Rams are curious to see what Donnie Avery's learning curve will be. The plan is to put him in as soon as possible. Scott Linehan said the only knock on Avery is that he works too hard in the classroom and in the weightroom.
Orlando Pace, Leonard Little, Adam Carriker, and Tye Hill probably won't be taking part in drills this weekend. However, they are all on schedule and barring any setbacks, they will be ready for training camp. They may not do two-a-days right away, and they will be monitored closely. There aren't any guys where the Rams might have to bring in someone else because they are afraid they won't be ready.
Justin King is going to need a little bit of time, and that is why he lasted into the 4th round. Penn State didn't use him in man to man so it will take him time to adjust. The Rams are projecting him as a slot corner right away because he is so smart. With his size and speed he should contribute on all special teams. He's a height, weight, and speed prospect, and it is up to him on how fast he can adjust.
All the wide receivers are going to have to fight it out, and it will come down to if a guy can play more than one position or if a guy is a return guy for special teams.
It is possible that the Rams could pick up a veteran free agent. They are evaluating some candidates, and they are constantly looking at the roster for any weak spots.
The Rams were shooting for an announcement tomorrow about training camp, but Billy said he's not sure if they have it completely worked out yet or not.
Billy said that the Rams will have a 4th quarterback going into training camp, and they will be looking for someone who has been in a camp or that has some NFL experience.
--------------------
May 7
Walsh Gives NFL 8 Tapes
According to Greg Bishop of the New York Times, former New England Patriots employee Matt Walsh has submitted eight videotapes showing that the team recorded play-calling signals of five opponents between the 2000 and 2002 seasons, in violation of league rules.
However, none of the tapes include the St. Louis Rams walk-through before the 2002 Super Bowl that reportedly existed according to a Boston Herald article in February.
The tapes are from five regular-season games against the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns and the San Diego Chargers, and from the 2002 AFC championship game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
In that game, the tape has been edited to show Steelers coaches signaling plays, followed by two different camera angles of the actual plays that were called, according to Bishop’s article.
--------------------
May 7
Thomas Previews Minicamp
Post-Dispatch Rams beat writer Jim Thomas joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Jim said that this isn't the normal rookie minicamp, and the the Rams will have more than 80 players at Rams Park this weekend for the mandatory camp.
He believes that the Rams are allowed to practice for 4 days a week from Friday till June 12th.
Jim said he is excited to see Donnie Avery because he wants to see how he catches the ball and how he runs routes.
Jim Haslett would've preferred Glenn Dorsey in the draft, but that doesn't mean he isn't excited to have Chris Long because he can use him in so many ways in his defense. Thomas is curious to see how many places they use him this weekend.
Thomas said it will also be interesting to see how Jacob Bell looks and moves around during this camp.
The Rams think they did pretty well drafting Greco and Schuening on the second day because so many teams need a third tackle.
Jim said he doesn't think Tye Hill, Adam Carriker, or Leonard Little will be cleared for full practice till training camp.
Jim said he had heard that the decision had all but been made to have training camp at Concordia, Wisconsin, but for some reason it is being held up.
The guys talk about Adam Archuletta getting cut from the Bears, and that his career is probably over. With his concussions and back problems, he should be set for life.
The guys joke that rams.com writer Nick Wagoner would be the president of the Chris Long fan club.
--------------------
May 6
Rams Hold Full Squad Minicamp
The St. Louis Rams will hold its minicamp Friday through Sunday, May 9-11, at the Russell Training Center. It will be closed to the public.
OTAs (Organized Team Activities) will take place on May 15, May 22, June 5, and June 12.
--------------------
May 1
Rams 2nd Pick WR Donnie Avery
The Rams' 2nd round draft pick wide receiver Donnie Avery joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Thursday afternoon.
Donnie said he couldn't be in a better place with Tory Holt, Drew Bennett, and Dante Hall.
"I'm excited and I just can't wait to get out there and play," Donnie said.
Avery attributed his lower ranking on different analyst's wide receiver lists to the fact that he had pulled his hamstring a week before the combine. He also had a late pro-day (March 31) so he wasn't really able to show what he could do till closer to the draft.
However he was high on a lot of different teams' draft boards, and he thought he may even end up a 49er.
"Mike Martz was excited about me, and other teams told me they were going to take me," Avery said.
Avery said he is trying to learn the slot position, and he will play special teams if the Rams want him to.
Donnie said if he messes up, he knows Henry Ellard and Tory Holt will be on him, and he is a quick learner.
Donnie said what separates him from the other guys is that he can run fast with his pads on, and he has never been caught from behind.
Family is the first priority for Avery, and when he thought he would have to quit playing college football because he couldn't afford to take care of his daughter, he prayed about it. He said his mom and family helped support him, and he was able to keep playing.
Against Rice this year, Donnie finished 427 all purpose yards.
He said it was frustrating to play last year with a dislocated thumb and having to catch the ball against his body because he knew scouts were watching, but then when it got healthy he was able to catch the ball with both hands and it was easier for him.
--------------------
April 30
4th Rd Pick King Excited to be in NFL
The Rams 4th round pick Justin King joined Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
Russ Lande of the Sporting News War Room had Justin rated as the 12th best cornerback and as the 97th pick in the draft.
Justin King said he played some wide receiver as a freshman, but he is a cornerback and thinks he is better on the defensive side of the ball.
King said he came out after his junior season because he wants to progress his football skills as a corner, and it was always a dream of his to play in the NFL. Nothing is ever guaranteed in this game. King already completed his degree in three years so he is ready for the next level.
King believes he needs to be refined and is looking forward to learning from pro coaches. He has never played safety, but he is willing to do whatever the Rams ask of him.
Justin said he would compare himself to a mixture of Al Harris and Champ Bailey.
Joe Paterno was a good coach, but King didn't talk too much with him. King said he was never in trouble.
Justin remembers watching the Greatest Show on Turf, and he has always watched Marc Bulger, who went to his rival high school.
--------------------
April 29
Rams 3rd Round Pick T John Greco
The Rams 3rd round draft pick John Greco joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
Greco said that he met with Rams' coaches and interviewed with them at the combine, so he had a little idea that the Rams were looking at him.
He played at right tackle his first year at Toledo, then moved to the left side for the past 3 years. He said that he thinks he can adapt to center if needed.
There were some questions about his arm length before the combine because someone measured them as 29 inches long. However, at the combine they measured 33 inches long, and John said that he never had an issue at Toledo.
John said he is a team player, and he will do whatever the coaches ask of him to help the team win. He said that he knows that there are no guarantees and he will keep his head on straight.
--------------------
April 28
Billy Devaney Recaps Draft
Rams VP of Player Personnel Billy Devaney joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Monday on the Roll Home on Team 1380 to recap the Draft.
At the end of the day it came down to the need for pass rush for the pick between Chris Long and Glenn Dorsey. Billy said that along with the positive energy Long brings into the building, he will make the other guys on the line better.
The Rams stuck to their theme of picking smart, passionate, productive players throughout the draft.
Devaney said that Donnie Avery was the best fit for the Rams at the wide receiver position.
“There were a lot of good receivers that went after Avery, but whether its size or speed or other issues, Avery was a much better fit for Al Saunder’s offense.”
As an example of the leadway that Jay Zygmunt and Scott Linehan gave him, Billy said that he put in a new grading scale when he got here even though it was very late in the process of preparing for the draft.
Devaney said that there wasn’t any major tweaking of the board late last week, but they moved some guys around after they received additional information.
The Rams know John Greco can play guard, but they would like to try him at tackle too. Roy Schuening definitely has a chance to develop into a starter.
Justin King needs some experience playing man coverage. He has all the measurables like height/weight, and has played some wide out. "There is no reason why this guy shouldn’t make tremendous gains," Billy said.
Devaney said that Mark Setterstrom, Brett Romberg, and Richie Incognito will fight it out for the center position, but they also want to get a look at Dustin Fry.
The guys also talked about the depth at safety, and Billy said they will bring in a quarterback for camp.
--------------------
April 28
Russ Lande Recaps Draft
Russ Lande of the Sporting News War Room and GMjr.com joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on Team 1380 to recap the draft this past weekend.
Russ said that the Rams' second round pick Donnie Avery is comparable to the Greatest Show on Turf receivers like Isaac Bruce. "Avery's a home run," Lande said. He can stretch the field, make plays down field, and he will do a lot for the Rams.
John Greco was Lande's #1 guard in the draft, and thinks he was a great pick. He said that Greco has the feet to play anywhere on the line, but is best suited at guard.
Justin King is very talented but not a polished football player so he will have to be worked with a little. He's not a guy who will fly up and be a violent tackler, but he will do whatever he needs in coverage.
Lande said Roy Schuening is a less athletic version of Greco and could become a starting guard or center in the league. Russ said that "Mr. Irrelevant" David Vobora could be a starter a year from now with the defense the Rams like to play.
on the free agents signed today?---Three guys stood out to Russ: He said when you watch film of Virginia Tech, Vincent Hall is highly competitive and makes a lot of plays. It wouldn't shock Russ to see him as the backup middle guy when the season starts.
Lande likes everything about Yvenson Bernard on film. He doesn't have break out speed, but he is a good player.
OT Stephen Sene out of Liberty is a little bit raw but has tools to develop. Down the road, he might be able to play guard for the Rams.
Russ also talked about which teams he thought had the best drafts, and he touched on other players. He said Kansas City had a great draft.
--------------------
April 28
Rams Sign 12 Undrafted Free Agents
Click Here to see the List of Players
--------------------
April 27
Rams Complete Draft with WR, G, 2 LBs
ROUND 4 (No. 128 overall): KEENAN BURTON
Position: WR
Height, weight: 6-0, 202
College: Kentucky
Transcript of Conference CallTranscript of Linehan & Devaney Press Conference
ROUND 5 (No. 157 overall): ROY SCHUENING
Position: Offensive tackle
Height, weight: 6-4, 308
College: Oregon State
Transcript of Conference CallTranscript of Linehan & Devaney Press Conference
ROUND 7 (No. 228 overall): CHRISTOPHER CHAMBERLAIN
Position: Linebacker
Height, weight: 6-2, 226
College: Tulsa
Transcript of Conference Call
ROUND 7 (No. 252 overall): DAVID VOBORA
Position: Linebacker
Height, weight: 6-1, 236
College: Idaho
Transcript of Conference Call
Transcript of Linehan & Devaney on Both Round 7 Picks
--------------------
April 27
Rams Take CB Justin King of Penn State
With their 4th round pick (101 overall), the Rams take 5'10.5", 192-pound cornerback Justin King. He ran a 4.309 in the 40.
From Scouts Inc.: King played in every game of his true freshman season and he started five games at wide receiver in 2005. He played on defense as well as offense and returned three kickoffs that year.
King started every game of the 2006 season at cornerback finishing with 30 tackles including 22 unassisted tackles. He also recorded an interception and six pass breakups that year.
King started 12 of the 13 games he appeared in during the 2007 season finishing with 49 total tackles including 36 unassisted tackles. He also recorded two interceptions and 15 pass breakups, one recovered fumble and two punt returns last year.
King possesses adequate size and exceptional straight-line speed. He has flashed playmaking ability in coverage but his inconsistency is concerning. King has some tightness in his hips, which limits his NFL upside as a man-to-man cover corner. He also needs to become more physical.
Transcript of Conference CallTranscript of Linehan & Devaney Press Conference
--------------------
April 27
Rams Select T John Greco of Toledo
With their 3rd round pick (65 overall), the Rams take 6'4", 326-pound offensive tackle John Greco.
From Scouts Inc.: Greco redshirted his first year at Toledo in 2003. Over the next four seasons (2004-'07), he played and started in every game of his collegiate career--49 in a row. Greco played right tackle for the Rockets as a freshman, then moved to left tackle for his last three seasons.
"Greco still has to clean up his technique and add some power to his game but he has the toughness, size and athletic ability to develop into an adequate starter or quality reserve so he projects as an early fourth round pick."
Transcript of Conference CallTranscript of Linehan & Devaney Press Conference
--------------------
April 26
Linehan and Devaney on Donnie Avery
Click Here for Transcript of Scott Linehan and Billy Devaney Press Conference after picking Donnie Avery.
Click below to listen to clips from Linehan & DevaneyDevaney on picking Avery.
Linehan talked about Avery’s kick return ability.
Linehan said Avery stood out at the combine.
Linehan on Avery's style of play.
Linehan on surprise of no receivers taken yet.
Linehan on Rams’ draft strategy.
Linehan said there are no issues with Avery.
--------------------
April 26
Donnie Avery Conference Call
Click Here for Transcript of Avery's Conference Call.
Click below to hear sound clips from the call
Avery describes himself as a player.
Avery followed the greatest show on turf.
Avery loves competition.
Avery on being first WR taken.
Avery on Rams tradition.
Avery on what he does in spare time.
Avery reaction that Rams' last #33 pick was Bruce.
Avery says hard work finally pays off.
--------------------
April 26
Linehan and Devaney on Pick of Long
Click Here for Transcript of Scott Linehan and Billy Devaney Press Conference after picking Chris Long.
Click below to listen to clips from Linehan & DevaneyDevaney announcing Long and why they took him
Devaney on if anything caused them to shy away from other picks.
Devaney on offers from other teams to trade up.
Devaney on what they liked about Long.
Linehan on how Long defends the run.
Linehan says Long is a great fit for the Rams.
Linehan on when they decided to take Long.
Linehan on where Adam Carriker will play.
--------------------
April 26
Chris Long Conference Call
Click Here for Transcript of Chris Long's Conference Call.
Click below to hear sound clips from the callLong on how the day has been.
Long on being called a high motor guy.
Long on being Howie's kid.
Long on being the starter this year.
Long on how he will contribute.
Long on how important it is to be in camp on time.
Long on Howie's reaction.
Long on if he knew the rams were interested in him.
Long on the pick came down to needs.
Long on what he knows about St. Louis.
--------------------
April 26
Rams Take Long; Avery with 1st 2 Picks
The St. Louis Rams have selected Virginia defensive end Chris Long with the second pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.
With their second pick in the draft, #33 overall (second pick in second round) the Rams picked wide receiver Donnie Avery out of the University of Houston.
Post-Dispatch Rams writer Jim Thomas joined Howard Balzer and Randy Karraker's draft show on Team 1380 live from Rams park and said that when Jim Haslett talked to the media, he said he was happy with the first pick.
However, Thomas said it was obvious that Haslett really liked Glenn Dorsey. Haslet said that a defensive tackle like Dorsey only comes around every 10 years.
--------------------
April 26
Ravens Talk to Rams about Trading Up
Chris Mortensen of ESPN reported that the Baltimore Ravens are talking to the Rams about trading Terrell Suggs and their #8 pick to the Rams for the #2 spot.
--------------------
April 25
Russ Lande Talks Draft
The Sporting News Draft insider Russ Lande joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Friday.
Lande said he thinks there is a 60-70% chance the Rams will take Glenn Dorsey, and a 20-30% they will take Chris Long.
Russ said he has both Chris Long and Glenn Dorsey rated equally, but he gives the edge to Chris Long. He said Long can be a premiere defensive end. He is dominant against both the run and pass, and he is extremely versatile.
Dorsey has explosiveness to get into backfield and can chase down running plays.
Long is a better athlete and more technically sound than both Aaron Kampman and Patrick Kerney. Contrary to a lot of experts, Lande thinks Long has a lot of upside.
Adam Carriker can be dominant against the run and get 5-6 sacks a year, but the problem with him is that he isn't explosive off the ball and will have to work to beat his man with power each play.
"If the Rams went to a 3-4 defense then (Carriker) would be a grand slam as a defensive end," Lande said.
The question is how far will the Rams want to drop down because the two teams who need a defensive tackle the most are New Orleans and Cincinnati who are at the bottom of the top 10.
--------------------
April 25
Saints Dangle LT Brown
According to Pete Prisco on CBSsportsline.com, the Saints are shopping LT Jammal Brown to try to move up in the draft to get Glenn Dorsey.
--------------------
April 24
Linehan & Devaney Answer Questions
Head coach Scott Linehan and executive vice president of player personnel Billy Devaney were on hand to answer questions and preview the 2008 NFL Draft today at Rams Park.
Click Here for Transcipts
--------------------
April 24
Rams' Owners Press Conference
Rams' Owners Chip Rosenbloom and Lucia Rodriguez held an introductory news conference this morning at Rams Park.
Click Here for Transcripts
--------------------
April 24
Draft Odds from BoDog.com
Who will the St. Louis Rams select with the #2 pick in the NFL Draft?
Chris Long 11/10
Glenn Dorsey 4/5
Field 7/2
--------------------
April 24
Walsh Will Meet with Goodell
National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell will meet with former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh on May 13th in New York.
Goodell and NFL officials plan to discuss the Pats' alleged spying practices with Walsh that may include the taping of the Rams' workout the day before Super Bowl 36.
Walsh is ordered to return any materials he may have from his time with the club and will not be sued by the Patriots or the league in exchange for his cooperation.
--------------------
April 23
Sentencing Delayed for Phillips
Sentencing for former St. Louis Ram running back Lawrence Phillips was put off until May 21 today in Los Angeles. Phillips was convicted of crashing his car into a group of young males he had just played a game of pickup football with in 2005.
Three people were hit, including two teenage boys. Prosecutors say that the former Ram was also wanted for failing to appear for a probation violation hearing in 2003. He had also pleaded no contest in 2000 to charges that he attacked his girlfriend in Beverly Hills.
The maximum sentence Phillips could face would be 13 years.
--------------------
April 23
Coaches Want Dorsey; Scouts Want Long
According to Andy Strickland on the Daily Buzz, the Rams' defensive coaches agree that they want to draft Glenn Dorsey, but the scouts and people about the coaches want Chris Long.
--------------------
April 23
USA Today's Bell Talks Draft
USA Today football writer Jarrett Bell joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday.
Bell said it's between Chris Long and Glenn Dorsey but he would pick Dorsey if he were the Rams' GM. Bell said that people forget about what they saw on the football field and focus too much on the combine.
Jarrett agreed with the Dorsey/Warren Sapp comparison because he is a DT who is quick and explosive off the ball.
"He is your type of guy in the 4-3 defense," Bell said.
The big question is whether he is fully healthy or not, but he didn't miss a game at LSU.
It's critical for the Rams to make it a good pick no matter who they take because they don't want to be in this situation again anytime soon.
Bell thinks Darren McFadden will be taken at #6. He said Matt Ryan could fall the furthest if Atlanta or Kansas City don't take him.
The running back position is deep in this draft, and Bell likes Mike Hart out of Michigan.
Bell said that Vikings made a good gamble trading for Jared Allen because he's a beast and a difference maker.
"He's one of the most underrated defensive lineman in the league," Bell said.
--------------------
April 23
ESPN MAG NFL Editor Talks Draft
ESPN the Magazine NFL Editor Scott Burton joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home Wednesday afternoon.
He said it will be hard to pass up Chris Long because of how poor the pass rush was last year, but that Glenn Dorsey is a monster and moves a line all by himself. The Rams could build around him, and couldn't go wrong by drafting him either.
Burton said it will be interesting to see where Matt Ryan go, and Carolina may trade up to get Ryan in the Patriots' spot.
Jeremy Shockey will likely be traded because he has fallen out of favor in New York, but the Giants don't have a pressing need. They will probably draft a safety with their 1st round pick.
KC might be at the center of trade talks because they got that second first round pick from Minnesota in the trade for Jared Allen.
The economics of the top picks are insane. "Miami just made Jake Long the highest paid offensive lineman in the NFL and he hasn't played a down, which is insane," he said.
Darren McFadden is the only premiere talent and 3-down back in the draft. "I think it will be interesting to see if the Raiders draft him. His speed is unbelievable. He has highlight film stuff with breakaway speed."
--------------------
April 22
Rams Will Practice with Titans
According to Jim Thomas on StlToday.com, the Rams have agreed to practice with the Tennessee Titans at Tennessee's camp for three days of training camp.
The Rams are narrowing their choices of training camp sites, and the three finalists are believed to be Concordia Wisconsin, Wisconsin-Whitewater, and Western Illinois University.
--------------------
April 22
Rams Cannot Negotiate with Picks Yet
According to Andy Strickland on the Daily Buzz, the Rams cannot negotiate with whoever they want until the name is called at the Draft. They can't even negotiate while they are on the clock.
Andy also said that the Rams want players more than picks if they are going to move out of the #2 spot. Less than 5 teams have contacted the Rams about their pick and only 1 has made a formal offer as of right now.
--------------------
April 22
Gil Brandt Talks Draft
The man who built America's Team in Dallas from the personnel standpoint, Gil Brandt of NFL.com joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday.
Gil said the word on the street is that the Rams want to trade down and the team most interested is New Orleans. However, it looks like it will be hard for the Saints to trade up to #2 according to the "chart" of points that each pick is worth.
Brandt said defensive tackles have become such a big part of the game because guards are so big now.
"When you see (Glenn Dorsey) play football you don't have any qualms," Gil said. "He's not like Jimmy Kennedy."
On moving Adam Carriker to defensive end, Gil said that Carriker never stops; he always plays hard. He's not going to be Leonard Little because he isn't that fast, but maybe they can move him to the left side.
Gil thinks you would still get a hell of a player at #10. "In the long run I think Ryan Clady has more potential than Jake Long," he said.
On Vernon Gholston, Brandt said he has reservations about his consistency. "When young guys are like that and not used to playing every down they tend to rest a little bit," Brandt said. He had 14 sacks last year, and they came against the better teams.
Gil said that the Dolphins signed the best player, at this point, in this draft today when they signed Jake Long.
They also talked about what kind of player Chris Long will be in the league, and what it would take from New Orleans in a trade for the Rams #2 pick if Gil was the Rams GM.
--------------------
April 22
Peter King Talks Draft
Sports Illustrated's Peter King joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 on Tuesday.
Peter said the Rams are on the clock, and he thinks the Rams will pick either Chris Long or Glenn Dorsey. He said Dorsey will step into the league and be compared to Warren Sapp.
"I know Jim Haslett loves Glenn Dorsey, but this is Billy Devaney's pick," King said.
According to King, Vernon Gholston is the best available outside pass rusher in this draft, doesn't play the run very well, and is inconsistent. The challenge is to coach him up to be more consistent. However, Peter said the Rams "will not take Vernon Gholston in this draft, period."
King said the Saints badly want Dorsey and they have talked to the teams picking 2, 3, and 4 about moving up. However, the Saints don't have a whole lot to give because they also want to trade the Giants for Jeremy Shockey.
Atlanta is down to 2 people on their board: Matt Ryan and Dorsey. It wouldn't shock King if they moved up to get Dorsey, but Falcons owner Arthur Blank has been sending out vibes that he wants Matt Ryan, and Atlanta's GM might want to make him the Falcon's franchise player.
If the Rams did trade down to the #10 pick, King said the question is what else do you get from the Saints? He said that maybe the Rams could get Keith Rivers at #10 and a real good corner and best available tackle in the second round if they get the picks from New Orleans.
King said that Darren McFadden is a big X-factor. King thinks the Jets will pick him or Baltimore will take him at #8 unless Ryan is there. King said that he thinks McFadden will be "92% of Adrian Peterson."
On possible trades---If the Giants can trade Jeremy Shockey for the 40th pick in the draft and something else small, the Giants would be foolish to not do it. Shockey wants to be Tony Gonzalez and the Giants want him to be Kyle Brady. King also thinks Lito Shepard will be traded soon.
--------------------
April 21
Jay Zygmunt Talks Draft
Rams President of Football Operations Jay Zygmunt joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday to talk about the Draft. Zygmunt said they are very comfortable with the health of Glenn Dorsey, and he also indirectly said that they will be working on a contract for Steven Jackson soon.
The Rams' goal right now is to get a real impact player who can come in and change the team.
"(We) have the second pick in the draft; (we) have to get a dominant player," Zygmunt said.
Jay said that if two guys are similar talent you have to go with the character guy, but there are all different factors.
Zygmunt said he wants to make sure they aren't in position to have such a high pick again for a long time. He thinks they might get some calls for the #2 pick, but it is very hard to predict.
Jay said, "It's always a possibility. We are open-minded to anything that gets us better."
If Miami gets a deal done before the draft, he said the Rams will literally be on the clock. The key is finding the right player, and judging the talent. The financial implications are almost causing teams to underwrite risk towards the top of the draft. You'd like the player to be as perfect as he can be, but there are no guarantees.
"We feel pretty good with where we are. The end justifies the means, and we need to put an impact player on this football team."
The Rams' war room guys started talking last Friday about general scenarios of what could happen, and they will keep doing it all week while looking at different trade possibilities for players who might be available. Jay said they have had conversations with a couple teams at this point, but it's hard to see how sincere they really are, but it will change throughout the week.
"It's basically down to a few players, and we are trying to get everybody's support (for one). It's just a matter of refining it and thinking it through. You look at the list of players so intensely. It's an art and not a science."
When asked who will have the final decision on Draft Day, Zygmunt said that everything will be decided during the week, and they will have a board and the player the Rams take will be the player at the top who Miami doesn't take.
Jay said, "Billy Devaney has been great, having to hit the ground with his feet running. He has a wealth of experience, and he's a really good guy to work with and knows how to facilitate the process."
When asked if the financial implications of such a high pick has any effect on Steven Jackson being re-signed, Jay said that they hope to get something worked out in the near future.
They also talked about other salary cap implications, and how some entry level guys will be making more than pro-bowl players.
--------------------
April 21
Fakhir Brown Wins Appeal
Jim Thomas reported on StlToday.com that Fakhir Brown won his appeal on a failed drug test and will not be suspended.
Brown was at Rams park today working out with the team after missing the last four weeks of the off season conditioning program.
--------------------
April 18
Draft Talk with Jim Thomas
Thomas thought that it seemed that Devaney agreed that Gholston takes plays off by his non comment about him yesterday on the show.
Jim said he would keel over if the Rams take Darren McFadden. If Miami takes Gholston, Thomas thinks it will be very interesting to see if the Rams would go with Glenn Dorsey or with Jake Long because they need to protect Bulger. Jim said he thinks Chris Long is in third place for the Rams, and that he thinks it will be 40% chance they take Dorsey,
40% Jake Long, and 20% Chris Long.
The Rams are hoping a QB like Chad Henne slips to the 4th, 5th, or 6th round for them.
The guys covered many other topics and you can listen to the interview by clicking below.
--------------------
April 18
Will Franklin Anticipating the Draft
Vashon and Mizzou grad Will Franklin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Friday on the Roll Home on Team 1380. Franklin said he has made 4-5 visits, including Dallas, Miami, Philadelphia and Detroit, and a couple of those teams told him they are interested. He said he looked at the visits as a business experience. He said he went in and tried to win a spot over the other wide receivers who were visiting.
Will plans to sit at home with his family next weekend while anticipating being picked during the Draft. He's going to try not to worry to much about slipping to a late round.
"It's something that is keeping me awake at night knowing it is only a week away from my life changing," Will said.
He said he really enjoyed visiting the Rams and his mentor is Tory Holt. He said he would prefer not to leave St. Louis. Will also plans to attend tomorrow's game at Mizzou.
Franklin said he knows that no matter where he gets drafted he has to still work hard and make the team.
"I have a great circle of people around me, and we're looking forward to a great weekend," Will said.
--------------------
April 18
Gosselin's 2nd Mock Draft Out Today
In Rick Gosselin's newest mock draft, he has Miami picking Vernon Gholston and the Rams taking Jake Long with the #2 pick.
#3--Glenn Dorsey, #4--Chris Long, #5--Ryan Clady, #6--Darren McFadden....
Click for the Remaining Picks
--------------------
April 17
Rams' VP of Player Personnel Billy Devaney Talks Draft Plans
Rams VP of Player Personnel Billy Devaney joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Thursday afternoon to talk about the Rams' Draft preparation.
"As of 2 hours ago the stacking of the board has finished," and the scouts, who have been here for the past 2 1/2 weeks can go home for awhile.
"There might be tweaking as we massage the middle of the draft, but as far as the first day, we are getting pretty locked in," Devaney said.
on what Dolphins will do?---They are trying to figure out best fit for their team. Billy isn't sure if they have locked on to their guy yet. We have to be prepared to go in a lot of different directions.
on Glenn Dorsey?---"We don't have any medical questions at all about Dorsey." He came in with the larger group this week, and Billy said he is a very special kid.
on Trading Pick?---We'll know by Wednesday or Thursday for sure of all possible scenarios we will go with. If we do get any calls about a trade, we will know how far we will go down and still be comfortable.
"We think that at the end of the day there will be some interest in that pick. We want to see how far back the teams are that are interested and if it will be worth it for us." They want to see if they are comfortable with the quality of guys that would be available. Billy said they can go a little lower than Kansas City's pick right now, and the Rams would be ok there.
on McFadden?----He was in with this past group of guys and he made a big hit in our building with the coaches and personnel staff and was very impressive.
"I think it would be exciting with the talent (McFadden) would bring," Devaney said.
excited at who will be available at #33?---I would say this draft doesn't have a great, dynamic player, but there are really good, explosive players through the second round. Billy said they need to come away with a good player in the second round.
is need at DE greater than DT?---Billy thinks what Dorsey brings to the table as an impact player and being able to start immediately, is a big plus. "If you have Carriker playing Nose Tackle and Dorsey playing other tackle it helps your linebackers, and the push from outside." It would make the team very strong according to Devaney.
Does LSU prepare kids for Draft better than other teams?---LSU kids are prepared but most of these college kids have been exposed to so much now, they don't come in wild eyed anymore. All the peripheral, football stuff isn't a big deal to them anymore and you don't have the learning curve like there used to be.
on Ryan Clady?----Rams really like Ryan Clady. Tackle may be strongest position in the first roung in draft this year.
on Will Franklin?---When he visited Rams Park, Henry Ellard put him through an extensive workout catching the ball and he did a great job. "At some point in the draft we are going to take a receiver and Franklin is in the mix."
on who ate most on their visit?---Gholston ate a 50 oz. steak the other night, and he might've been the first one finished eating. Everyone else was still eating, and (Gholston) started eating rolls.
Listen to Billy Devaney Interview
--------------------
April 17
OJ Atogwe Previews Season
Rams safety OJ Atogwe joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Thursday afternoon. Atogwe agreed with Randy that there is a pretty positive vibe around Rams park, and he said they know they aren't a 3-13 team.
"We know what we have and what we are capable of and we can do a lot better than last year," OJ said.
Atogwe thinks the Rams will build on the defensive side of the ball with their first pick since most of the top players in the draft are on defense.
OJ has no problems with the business side of how things are going. "I'm excited to come back and help us with a chance at a world championship."
He said there are always areas to improve in the game. He said he can improve by getting more sacks and causing more turnovers.
Everybody is excited about Al Saunders coming back, and the potential of the offense this season.
Listen to OJ Atogwe Interview
--------------------
April 16
Gosselin: Dorsey is Best Pick in Draft
Draft Expert Rick "Goose" Gosselin joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon. Bernie called Gosselin the best Draft guy in the country after the interview because he always nails so many picks with his mock drafts. If someone predicts 8 to 12 first round picks it is considered very good, and Gosselin picked 14 last year and as many as 18 in previous drafts.
The Friday before the Draft each year, he also puts out his Top 100 list and he has been the best with the Top 100 every year since 1998. Last year he was right on with 86 of his top 100.
Goose said that he has been doing his research and has talked to 4 different NFL coaches before 7am this morning. He's not convinced that it's a done deal with the Dolphins and Jake Long because of the contract talks that are going on with Long's agent. If they don't take J Long, Gosselin said he thinks they would take Chris Long because Vernon Gholston has the same agent as Jake.
Gosselin said this year will be like the 1991 draft. There is no player deserving the #1 pick, and the 2 safest picks on the board are Jake and Chris Long. He said Dorsey has chance of being home run, and that nobody wants to trade up to #1 through #5 picks because of the money guaranteed to the top picks. He thought there could be a trade or two around picks 8, 9, or 10.
on Glenn Dorsey?---He is best player in Draft. He did not miss a game in college. He's a high motor guy with more energy and more talent than Chris Long. Rick said that LSU guys are money in the bank. They prepare their players better for the NFL than anyone else and that is why he is a safe pick.
on comparing them to guys in NFL?---Chris Long would be Patrick Kearney--both high motor, effort guys. Dorsey would be like Warren Sapp.
can Jake Long play LT?--He played LT at Michigan for 2 years, and Rick thinks the Rams should play him at LT if they pick him. He thinks Ryan Clady is strictly a LT.
on Gholston?---Vernon Gholston is best pass rusher in draft but this is not a great draft. He is not Simeon Rice, not going to be a HOF pass rusher.
McFadden best RB in Draft?---McFadden has great speed and is best back in Draft. Goose thinks Illinois' Rashard Mendenhall will go in top 15.
The guys also talked about which QBs are the best in the draft, and which WRs might be available for the Rams with their 3rd round pick.
--------------------
April 15
"In a few years everyone will be talking about Johnathan Stewart and not McFadden."--- Nolan Nawrocki
Pro Football Weekly's Nolan Nawrocki joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon and he said that he thinks the Rams should trade with Miami to make sure they get Jake Long because he believes they need to be able to replace Orlando Pace and that way they
can keep the offense healthy.
Nawrocki said that J Long's character is better than Ryan Clady's, and that there are questions about Clady's intelligence and being able to step into the league right away.
Nolan thinks Bill Parcells will take Jake Long even though he has a tendency of drafting defensive players. He said Vernon Gholston best fits his 3-4 defense, and Nolan thinks Parcells would take Gholston if he decides to go with defense with the first pick.
Nawrocki doesn't think the Rams should even think about Glenn Dorsey because they need depth on the outside more than on the inside. He said to help the team right away they need speed off the edge, and he would pick Gholston. Nolan sees on tape that Gholston does take some plays off, but he thinks he can be coached to play hard every play. He said Gholston has a lot more upside than Chris Long.
Nolan said there is more overall depth at the cornerback position in the draft, and he would draft a receiver in the 3rd or 4th round.
on whose Stock is rising?---Oregon running back Johnathan Stewart. Nolan said that he's the strongest, most physical back, and he can catch and block. He won't get out of the top 15.
comparing McFadden and Peterson?---Nolan said Adrian Peterson will be a much more established pro when he finishes his career than Darren McFadden because he is stronger and has more overall competitiveness. He said that McFadden runs with a more narrow base and can be knocked off his base more easily.
Nolan said, "Mark my words, in a few years everyone will be talking about Johnathan Stewart and not McFadden."
--------------------
April 15
Howard Balzer Talks Draft
National Football writer Howard Balzer said he would like to see the Rams go after a defensive end with the second pick because that position will most likely be the biggest difference maker during the season.
Howard said he would shy away from picking Glenn Dorsey because the Rams have to address so many needs it will hurt them to push all the other position needs back in the draft.
Balzer would be happy with Chris Long, but he thinks Vernon Gholston can be a transcendent pass rusher with his speed off the edge. Howard said he thinks he will be a difference maker who other teams will have to account for.
Balzer said one sleeper to keep an eye on in the draft is DE/LB Vincent Redd out of Liberty, who will probably be between a 5th to 7th round pick. Redd is visiting Rams Park today.
--------------------
April 15
Late Division Match-ups and Both Super Bowl XLII Teams Highlight Schedule
Games against both Super Bowl XLII teams, and three consecutive divisional matchups late in the season will highlight the St. Louis Rams 2008 season, announced by the NFL today.
The Rams open the season on the road Sept. 7 at Philadelphia, the first time the Rams have played in the “City of Brotherly Love” since 2002. The Rams opened the 2001 season at Philadelphia, collecting a 20-17 overtime victory en route to playing in Super Bowl XXXVI that season. Since the Rams moved to St. Louis in 1995, the Rams are 8-5 in season openers.
The Rams return to St. Louis for the season home opener to face the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants on Sept. 16. The game will mark the first time the Rams will host the Giants since 2002. In Week 3, the Rams head back on the road to face NFC West Division champs the Seattle Seahawks on Sept. 21. In Week 4, the Rams come back to the Edward Jones Dome to face off against the Buffalo Bills on Sept. 28. The game will mark the first time the Bills have played in St. Louis since 1995.
After a bye in Week 5, the Rams have back to back games against the NFC East -- first heading east to take on new head coach Jim Zorn and the Washington Redskins Oct. 12, then coming home to take on the NFC East champion Dallas Cowboys on Oct. 19.
The Rams will close the month of October against the Super Bowl runner-up New England Patriots in Foxborough Oct. 26.
In Week 9, the Rams will return home for its first home divisional game against the Arizona Cardinals Nov. 2. The Rams return to the road to take on the New York Jets Nov. 9 and then head to face NFC West foe San Francisco 49ers Nov. 16.
The Rams have back-to-back home games for the first time of the season in Weeks 13 and 14. On Nov. 23, the Rams take on former Rams defensive coordinator Lovie Smith and the Chicago Bears and on Nov. 30, the Rams face the Miami Dolphins.
To open December the Rams have back-to-back-to-back divisional games. First, the Rams head to Phoenix to take on the Cardinals for the second meeting of the season. The Rams come back home to take on Seattle on Dec. 14 and San Francisco Dec. 21. The three-game stretch marks the first time the Rams have had three consecutive divisional games since realignment in 2002.
Click for the Rams Schedule
--------------------
April 14
Prospects Visit Rams Park
Post-Dispatch Rams beat writer Jim Thomas joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Monday afternoon to talk about the latest news from Rams Park.
The guys talked about how weird it is when a player's stock can rise or fall during this period when they aren't playing. Jim said it's dangerous to be swayed too much by a workout.
Thomas said he thinks Jake Long is the guy in Miami so the Rams are trying to figure out who they will take between Chris Long, Glenn Dorsey, and Vernon Gholston.
Rams' staff say they aren't concerned about Dorsey's health, and Jim said that he would be surprised if the Rams take Gholston because they aren't talking about him very much.
Glenn Dorsey (who couldn't make it Sunday because of the flu) and Darren McFadden will be visit Rams Park Tuesday along with the other prospects yet to visit. Thomas thinks there will be around 5 wide receivers and 4 or 5 corner backs included in that group who will meet with different coaches including Scott Linehan.
When the local prospects were here working out on Friday, some of the Rams players were working out in there too, and around 60 of the 64 guys on the roster have shown up to work out.
Listen to Jim Thomas Conversation
--------------------
April 14
Training Camp Location Possibilities
According to Andy Strickland's "Daily Buzz" on the Roll Home with Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker, Rams officials are visiting potential sites for this year's training camp over the next couple days. They are in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, today, and both Madison, WI, U of Wisconsin--Stephen's Point tomorrow. They are going to visit Macomb, IL, on Wednesday.
--------------------
April 11
Rams Talk with Jim Thomas
Jim Thomas joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 and said that up to 26 prospective draft picks will visit Rams Park Tuesday after the big 4--Jake Long, Chris Long, Glenn Dorsey, and Vernon Gholston fly in on Sunday. Sedrick Ellis is not going to come into town, but Thomas said the Rams will take a look at him if they trade down for their first pick.
Local prospects including WR Will Franklin and Darnell Terrell of Mizzou, DL Brian Schaefering of Lindenwood, and DE Shaun Richardson of Tennessee State visited Rams Park today, and Bill Coats of the Post-Dispatch said that he was very impressed with Franklin.
Thomas said that he thinks the Dolphins are leaning towards taking Jake Long because both Chris Long and Dorsey are too small for their respective positions for the classic Bill Parcells' 3-4 defense.
Around 60 of the 64 players currently under contract with the Rams have been showing up at Rams Park for offseason conditioning drills, and Jim said that Ron Bartell, Claude Wroten, Jonathon Wade have been working out everyday.
Fakhir Brown has not shown up yet, and Alex Barron hasn't been seen since he briefly showed up one day last week. Torry Holt has also been absent because of his golf tournament, but Thomas said that Holt did a lot of conditioning work in February and March.
Listen to Jim Thomas Interview
--------------------
April 11
McShay: "Gholston Overrated"
ESPN's Draft expert Todd McShay on Sportscenter said that he thinks Vernon Gholston is the most overrated player who will be picked in top 10 in the Draft. He said that Gholston is a great player, but he doesn't think he should be mentioned as potentially the #1 pick by the Dolphins or the #2 pick by the Rams.
McShay said that in some games Gholston was a dominating force but when he watched film of other games he "can't tell where he is at all."
McShay added that Jake Long addresses the most needs for Miami. He thinks Matt Ryan will be taken by Baltimore if he drops to them at #8, but the Falcons (#3) and Chiefs (#5) have interest in Ryan.
--------------------
April 8
Balzer Wary of Dorsey's Injury
National Football writer and Sirius Satellite Radio Host Howard Balzer said on his local radio show on Team 1380 Tuesday that he thinks Glenn Dorsey will need to have surgery at somepoint, and he called him a "walking time bomb" with a clear issue with his tibia.
Balzer talked about how the Rams drafted Damione Lewis at 12 overall in 2001 even though he had issues with his foot, and Lewis ended up breaking his leg in his rookie season, needing 2 surgeries. Lewis wasn't even able to start running until mid-August of 2002, and he was never the same player and never lived up to expectations.
Howard said he will be interested to see where Dorsey is drafted and that if he drafted Dorsey, Balzer would look into making him have surgery before he even plays.
Balzer talked about different players the Rams will have visit Rams Park before the draft including Tennessee LB Jerod Mayo, who could possibly be taken in the 3rd round by the Rams if their other targets are already taken.
Howard said that University of Florida WR Andre Caldwell (brother of Reche Caldwell) will also visit with the Rams next week.
Balzer also talked about WR Mario Manningham and CB Aqib Talib's stock dropping in the draft according to an article on ProFootball.com today, which stated that Talib failed 3 drug tests while at Kansas, and Manningham lied at the combine about failing 2 tests while at Michigan.
Listen to Howard Balzer
--------------------
April 7
Hour Long Jim Thomas Conversation
Rams beat writer Jim Thomas joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker for an hour on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday.
Part 1---Draft Talk
It's basically down to 3 guys---Chris Long, Jake Long, or Glenn Dorsey. The Rams are allowed to bring in 30 prospects to Rams park along with any "locals" they want, and Jim thinks they will have 35 total including Mizzou's Will Franklin. Both Longs, Dorsey, and Vernon Gholston (trade down plan) will fly in Sunday and the other prospective picks will be at Rams Park April 15-16.
Thomas said he wouldn't be surprised if the Dolphins take Chris Long; the Rams take Jake Long and move Alex Barron by the start of the season.
Bernie asked who is the biggest advocate for each of the Big 3:
- Jim Haslett strongly wants Dorsey.
- Scott Linehan and Haslett want Chris Long.
- Billy Devaney and Linehan want Jake Long.
Thomas said that the information is in, and now the arguing begins. He said the board will be stacked by Wednesday before the draft. Jim said that Jay Zygmunt typically defers on draft day and that he deals more with the free agents.
Jim also said that contrary to popular belief, if the Rams take Dorsey, Carriker will not be moved to DE, but that they will start both as DTs.
Listen to Draft Conversation
Part 2--Uniforms & Training Camp
The guys questioned the NFL's ruling on the Rams' request to wear their 1999 uniforms in one game this upcoming season to honor former owner Georgia Frontiere, who passed away in January. Bernie said he thinks they should just wear the jerseys and pay any fine from the league.
Jim Thomas said the Rams' training camp site will most likely be held at Oshkosh, Wisconsin--about an hour outside of Madison, where the University of Wisconsin used to hold camp.
The Chiefs, Packers, and Titans are interested in scrimmaging against the Rams during camp, and the back-up plan is to hold camp at Macomb, Illinois.
Listen to Uniforms & Training Camp Conversation
--------------------
April 7
Leonard Little Talks Drinking & Driving, Rams, and Draft
Rams DE Leonard Little joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon to talk about the Rams, the Draft, and to discuss going to schools to talk to kids about the dangers of drinking and driving. Leonard is also going to try to talk to Mizzou's football team soon.
Little said that going to schools is something he came up with to make kids aware of the consequences of drinking and driving. He wants the kids to know that even if they do mess up they can pick themselves up and strive to be the person they want to be.
He said it only takes one night to be in the position he is in, and he will ask students to be responsible.
"If you are going to make an adult decision then you need to act like an adult," Little said. "It was a mistake and a dumb decision I made 10 years ago. I think about it everyday."
Leonard will speak at Clayton High School Tuesday, Parkway North on April 21, and Berra Academy in St. Charles later this month.
on his injury?---Little talked about the surgery on his big toe that he is recovering from this offseason. He said that today he was able to do the conditioning drills with the team, and that be ready to go this season.
on draft?---Little said you can't go wrong with Vernon Gholson, Chris Long, or Glenn Dorsey. If they draft a defensive lineman, Little said that he would show him the moves needed to be effective on the field.
on Dorsey?---Leonard said Dorsey would do a lot for the Rams on the run and the pass rush up the middle.
Listen to Leonard Little Interview
--------------------
April 4
Draft & Injury Talk with JT
Post-Dispatch Rams beat writer Jim Thomas joined Randy Karraker on the Roll Home Friday and talked about Coach Linehan's relationship with Marc Bulger. They also talked about the Rams moving training camp to either Wisconsin or Macomb, IL.
Thomas told Randy that he still thinks that there are some guys at Rams park who still want to take Jake Long, Chris Long, and some who want Glenn Dorsey with the #2 pick, but if they trade down, they would try to get Vernon Gholston or Sedrick Ellis if they had the 7th pick.
Jim thinks the Rams will take an Offensive Tackle in the first 3 rounds of the draft, depending on who they take with their first pick. He said that it isn't likely, but it is possible that the Rams could make a draft day trade for Minnesota's Matt Birk and still even draft Jake Long.
The guys also talked about Tye Hill's injury still bothering him, and that according to Coach Linehan---Adam Carriker, Leonard Little, and Orlando Pace won't be ready to go by training camp because of their injuries.
Jim Thomas Conversation
--------------------
April 4
Brown Suspension Coming Soon?
Andy Strickland reported on The Roll Home on Team 1380 that the Rams have asked the NFL to let them know how long Fakhir Brown's alleged suspension will be before the draft so they know if they need to replace him.
Strickland said it is likely that Brown will be going on a year-long vacation, according to the rumors
that he has failed his third
drug test.
--------------------
April 3
NFL.com's Gil Brandt Talks Draft
Legendary Talent Scout Gil Brandt joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on the Roll Home Thursday afternoon to talk about the Draft in a little over 3 weeks.
Brandt said he doesn't see how you could go wrong with drafting Chris Long, Jake Long, or Glenn Dorsey. He said that many people are skeptical of Jake Long's ability to play Left Tackle, but Gil said he believes Long would play very well at the position.
They also discuss who Bill Parcells might take with the #1 overall pick, Mizzou players in the Draft, and Draft strategy.
--------------------
April 3
Rams Preseason Opponents Announced
The Rams will open the preseason on the road at the Tennessee Titans in Week 1 and then play, in order, San Diego at home, Baltimore at home, and Kansas City on the road.
Click for More Info on Preseason
--------------------
April 1 (7:45p)
Rams to Definitely Move Training Camp
Outside St. Louis
Howard Balzer reported on Simply Football Tuesday on Team 1380 that the Rams' training camp will definitely take place away from St. Louis in a location still to be determined.
They want to have it in Wisconsin to be close to another team they can scrimmage against, but they are also looking at Macomb, Ill., where they have had training camp in the past.
Listen to Howard Balzer
--------------------
March 31 (3:35p)
Thomas Reports from Owner Meetings
The Rams now have 10 picks, including 2 sixth-round picks and 3 seventh-round picks, with the addition today of the last pick of the draft (which cannot be traded).
Post-Dispatch Rams beat reporter Jim Thomas and Randy Karraker agreed on the Roll Home Monday that the Rams should look at taking Pig Brown out of Mizzou with their last pick, and put him on injured reserve if they have to.
on Lito Sheppard?---Thomas said the Rams are very much in the market for a cornerback and he thinks they will be talking to the Eagles about a trade for Lito Sheppard. JT said he would trade the third pick for him. Randy and Jim both agreed that the Eagles are very good at evaluating their players though and by giving Asante Samuel such a big contract might mean that Sheppard doesn't have much left to offer.
on new rules?---JT said he is hearing that the playoff seeding rule proposition is in trouble, and the hair covering the nameplate rule will be discussed tomorrow when Herm Edwards gets a chance to explain why he proposed the new rule.
on Spygate?---Robert Kraft basically challenged Matt Walsh and said to put up or shut up. Kraft said if he has had anything we would've heard about it, but Walsh said he wants to be able to keep a copy of any tapes he has. Goodell said they have interviewed 50 people and Walsh is the only one asking for protection against any action taken against him.
JT said that it's peculiar that the league has kind of changed it's stance and is now saying that the Patriots shouldn't be held liable for anything Walsh has that he wasn't specifically told to do.
Listen to Jim Thomas Interview
--------------------
March 31 (2:35)
Rams Awarded Pick
The St. Louis Rams were awarded one seventh-round compensatory pick for the loss of 2007 free agents.
It is the final pick of the draft, so the Rams will choose
"Mr. Irrelevant."
--------------------
March 28
Hour Long Draft Talk with Jim Thomas
Part 1
Post-Dispatch Rams beat writer Jim Thomas said that after Glenn Dorsey's workout, he has to be in the mix for the Rams #2 overall pick. Bernie Miklasz said that even though Defensive Tackles don't always work out well as high draft picks, he thinks that you have to take a player who has the chance to be great.
Thomas said that this will be La'Roi Glover's last year and Claude Wroten could be a bust, so the Rams would be able to play Dorsey, Adam Carriker, and Cliffton Ryan in rotation and move Carriker to End for some plays. Jim believes Dorsey can be a 8-10 sack guy, but he questioned whether the Rams have enough on the edge of the defensive line to be happy taking a tackle with thier top pick.
Jim Thomas also talked about the medical issues of taking Dorsey, but said that his understanding from the people he has talked to is that each doctor's opinion varies on if he even really has a stress fracture.
Part 2
Thomas said there are different camps at Rams park each wanting a different player with the first pick including Jake Long, Chris Long, and Glenn Dorsey. He also said that some people in Rams park have told him that Jake Long can play guard and some have told him he can't.
The guys talked about Will Franklin likely being the 1st Mizzou player taken in the draft, and discussed his workouts and play in college. They also said they think the Rams should be trying to create interest in a trade with them by bringing in Darren McFadden for a workout.
Part 3
Thomas, Miklasz, and Karraker took calls about the Draft and the Rams in general for the rest of the show touching on many topics.
Thomas told a caller that the Rams don't see the safety position as a need they need to address with this year's draft, but maybe next year. They also talked about the player turnout for workouts so far and briefly touched on Spygate.
--------------------
March 27 (5:15p)
Howard Balzer Draft and Rams Talk
National NFL writer Howard Balzer joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Thursday afternoon and discussed Matt Walsh possibly being brought up in owner's meetings next week, and Rams' potential draft picks.
- on Glenn Dorsey's workout?---Balzer said that Dorsey didn't blow people away, but that he had a solid workout. He will have a medical re-check next week in Indianapolis.
- on Miami's #1 pick?---Howard thinks they can go in a number of directions. It is intrigueing because the Dolphins play a 3-4, and he thinks Dorsey would be wasted in that system. Howard said a nose tackle shouldn't be taken that high in the draft because they usually aren't big play makers.
- on Vernon Gholson?---Howard said that people are mistaken when they think he wasn't on draft boards before the combine because in reality Gholston was on them he didn't make himself eligible till late. Balzer said he doesn't think he moved up because he was a workout warrior at the combine, and thinks he will be a good player in the NFL.
The guys also talked about the Rams new kicker Josh Brown, the new rules proposed by the NFL concerning a player's hair covering the name on the jersey, and the new playoffs format.
--------------------
March 26 (5p)
DRAFT Talk with Russ Lande
Russ Lande of GMjr.com and the Sporting News Pro Football War Room joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker of the Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday and talked about the Rams' potential draft choices.
Lande said he thinks Vernon Gholston is more of a workout warrior instead of a dominant player. He said that Gholston could be a scary early round guy especially at #2 overall.
Lande said that if the Dolphins don't trade their #1 overall pick, he thinks they would take Chris Long, and the Rams would take Jake Long. Russ thinks that the Rams should let Long and Alex Barron compete for the RT position to start a fire under Barron and see if he can play at a higher level like many people believe he can. Lande said, "If you don't protect (Marc) Bulger, next year is shot anyway."
The guys also talked about Glenn Dorsey, Mario Manningham, risky picks, likely trade partners with the Rams, and other potential Rams' picks.
To listen to interview click below:
--------------------
March 25 (7:10p)
Balzer and Thomas Discuss Rams
National NFL writer and radio host Howard Balzer and Post-Dispatch Rams beat writer Jim Thomas discussed the Rams first day of workouts Tuesday and the possible Draft picks of the Rams.
They compared Chris Long and Vernon Gholston as potential picks, and talked about the NFL Network's Mike Mayock's pre-combine rankings.
Jim Thomas said he'd be very surprised if the Rams didn't take a wide receiver in round 2 or 3 no matter what happens with their 1st round pick.
They also talked about the Rams potential interest in Minnesota Vikings' center Matt Birk.
There are serious concerns of Fakhir Brown's longterm availability. The Rams aren't sure when they will know if he is available or not because in the case of a failed drug test, the league doesn't announce anything until the appeal process has been exhausted. You can hear thier conversation by clicking the link below.
--------------------
March 25 (5:30p)
Rams Talk on The Roll Home
Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker briefly discussed the Reche Caldwell signing, and said that he will have to perform to make the roster. They said Caldwell will not block the paths of other younger wide receivers like Derek Stanley.
The also talked about Kansas City Chiefs Coach Herman Edwards complaining about the Rams signing of K Josh Brown before the Chiefs had a chance for him.
--------------------
March 25 (12:30p)
Rams Sign Reche Caldwell
According to Bill Coats of the Post-Dispatch, the Rams have agreed to terms Tuesday with 6 foot, 210 pound, free agent wide reciever Reche Caldwell.
Caldwell has played in the NFL for six seasons with San Diego, New England, and Washington last season.
Caldwell will reportedly receive a one-year deal worth $645,000.
The Rams new offensive coordinator, Al Saunders, coached Caldwell last season with Washington, where Caldwell caught 15 receptions for 141 yards in 8 games.
--------------------
March 24
Rams Agree to Terms with James Hall
According to Jim Thomas on STLToday.com, the Rams have agreed to terms with James Hall, who started at defensive end for
St. Louis for 15 games last season.
Hall was released from the Rams 3½ weeks ago because of what his salary would count against the cap and a $500,000 roster bonus due to him.