St. Louis Rams Roundtable: What position should the Rams be worried about the most
by Tevin Broner on Feb 22, 2012 2:00 PM CST
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PrintThe St. Louis Rams have a lot of holes on their team. It makes sense, because being in last place in the NFC West isn't anything to brag about. Lucky, the Rams will have plenty of opportunities to improve on their roster.
We all know that the Rams have a lot of issues, but I decided to ask the other other turfshowtimes.com writers what position did they think should be upgraded the most. The answers below shouldn't be surprising, the only surprise was how many agreed on one answer. Follow the jump for the answers to the questions,
Oh, and one more thing. We will start trying to incorporate you guys more in the roundtable conversations. So if you want your voice heard for the next roundtable, we might be able to make something happen. We will most likely randomly select people the first couple of times, it depends on how smooth the next one goes.
Anyway, follow the jump for the answers to the questions, as always we would like to know how you feel about the topic, so leave comments below.
It's the offensive line. I know that the Rams had the weapons of a 5 year old playing cops and robbers, but the Rams need to protect Sam. If the Rams draft a Left tackle, Rodger Saffold can move to the right tackle spot, and Smith can learn how to play tackle.-T.Ram
I'll say the offensive line. We've had a terrible offensive team & all of them have had horrible o-lines.
-Eddie P
Offensive Oline, they need to upgrade in at least 3 spots to protect Sam as well as improving short yardage/red one running.-Mike D
Wide Receiver. I would think to Rams fans that would be quite obvious. Sam Bradford can't keep throwing to XFL players.- Eric Nagel
Offensive left tackle improvement has to top my list of concerns; followed closely by defensive tackle, outside linebacker and corner back. I really don't see any valid options for a top tier LT in free agency, so that leaves the 2012 NFL draft to possibly commit, once again, another high value pick to the position. Our "draft pick bleeding" has to stop at some point trying to fill this spot. The NFL combine is coming up, and the only bullet in our gun right now for the draft day guessing game version of Russian Roulette is "highest NFL ceiling" for prospects like Matt Kalil, Riley Reiff, and Jonathan Martin. My hope is that, before we pull the trigger on one of these prospects with a high first round pick, Les Snead and Jeff Fisher can glean which is the true NFL caliber player. If they can't, I hope they move on to fill other needs and not waste yet another "future' building" draft pick.-Douglas M
Offensive Line- the pass protection and run blocking was horrendous last season. For this offense to make progress, they need to get the line problem solved. - Brick Top
As I've stated previously, I really think it has to be left tackle. I am a firm believer that you build from the lines out. You have invested your future in Sam Bradford, and he has to be protected. I don't think that there is a more compelling argument out there. It's pretty simple. You protect the guy that costs the most in terms of money and the opportunity cost of what you gave up to get him. I completely get that some people think better receivers will get open better, faster. These d-lineman can get three steps off as fast as receivers. The difference is, the receiver is only five yards down the field, while the lineman are in Bradford's face.-Ramhock
Honestly, it's a tie between offensive and defensive tackle for me. We've got to get the bookend positions solidified for Bradford ASAP, but you can't have any kind of consistent defense with the DTs we played last year. It's relatively impossible to get both a top OT and DT in the same offseason, but in terms of absolute need, those two are well above everything else IMO. - 3k
At first I was going to say WR, however, I don't care if you have Jerry Rice, Terrell Owens and Isaac Bruce in their prime, without protection, it don't matter. Therefore, OT needs to be addressed #1... there are free agent options at WR and quite frankly I think i'd rather have a seasoned vet at WR than a rookie (depending on talent level of course and I think Blackmon is over rated).- VTramsFan
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It's wr and most of TST agrees
http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2012/2/18/2807899/the-2012-st-louis-rams-needs-final-tally
Enough Said..
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
I agree with RG
We need playmakers the most. Lloyd is the only one we got and he may be outta here. WR and a RB later are far more important than OL right now…..although I’d like to maybe get a DT and an OG too.
Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is where the Stanley Cup can be found.
by Pekka for Predator Pontiff on Feb 23, 2012 11:47 AM CST up reply actions
wow yet another fan that just dosen't know football!
don’t get me wrong WR is bad on our team BUT if u have a solid OL and bradford has all the time in the world the man will find his targets dosent matter who’s our wr brad just has that potential we need OL and CB how the hell are u guys saying draft wr draft another in the 2 draft wr all day its crazy we went by 9 10 11 cb last yr which is insane and hurts our deff. the most our def line is the best part of the deff. then the linebacks then corners we need outside linebacks to ALOT! but to say WR is our most need is stupid unless theres a Larry Fitz, Calvin, A. Johnson a straight out dominate wr then we can take it but i want to help the line first and for most.
by Joshua_rams_truefan on Feb 22, 2012 4:43 PM CST up reply actions
Last year I saw an O-line that got constantly blitzed.
You think the best left tackle in the draft is gonna solve that problem? I don’t think so. When teams start respecting the Rams passing game, thats when the protection will get better. When defensive backs are back peddling to cover receivers instead of blitzing Bradford is when this team will finally turn the corner. The only way you solve that is by having capable receivers for him to throw to.
Uh most sacks were against 4 or 5 man rushes
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Haha
The two best LTs from years pass are Thomas and Long, no playoffs for those two. I saw a line that got consistently blitzed and couldn’t do nothing about it because our wrs couldn’t get separation and catch the ball. Apparently you don’t know football if you want us to consistently draft high round draft picks and when they don’t produce in a couple of years people want another. When do we get Sam his franchise wr? Next season? The arson after that? These wrs suck and getting late round talent or consistently trying to fix it up in FA is ignorant and won’t work, look at the past..
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 5:14 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Judging by the responses on this post you'd think we had the Packer's receviers.
Let me make sure I’m not on the Green Bay website.
it's not just left tackle though.
Our starting center was benched, one of our guards is a FA, our RT can’t stay on the field, and out left tackle allowed the most sacks.
Is that great man formally known as Tevin T. Broner, also I'm on twitter Follow @T_Bron
by Tevin Broner on Feb 22, 2012 5:25 PM CST up reply actions
I know. Most people see Bradford getting creamed by a blitzing corner or safety and they start wanting to draft a left tackle in the draft.
Not saying that left tackle isn’t a problem. Is it a worse problem than not having a true #1 receiver? I say no. Even if the Rams sign Lloyd they’re one WR short of being able to move the ball on offense. They need another good receiver to keep defenses honest, otherwise you’re gonna constantly have defensive backs running through the line to give Bradford more chin music. An good offensive line can only block defensive lineman, not defensive lineman AND defensive backs.
Draft a LT, Saffold moves to RT and Dahl to RG
solves 3 spots on the line, a FA would almost complete it
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Lol you would think so..
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 5:28 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Tell the Cowboys how WRs are more important than O-line
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Yelp
Romo had one of his best season this season, you’re point?
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 7:06 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
the offense as a total unit was way worse
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
But still
They were a game away from going to the playoffs, if Sam had those weapons it wouldnt be a question. They have enough talent on that team to make the playoffs, Romo just sucks..
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 8:09 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Really??
shows your football knowledge to say he sucks
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Its my personal opinion
Don’t like the dude, will never make a SB and has he even won a playoff game? He makes stupid mistakes in the clutch and is one of the major reason his team didn’t make the playoffs..
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 10:35 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Teams wins SBs and playoff games and games in general
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Yea but a single player can lose it for them
Kicker in the Stanford vs Cowboys game
Romo in the Detriot game
Teams win games you are right but a single player can lose it for them.
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 11:25 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
wow
im not saying just tackle im talkin bout the whole line itself figure out who’s playing where see what we can get but WR IS not our answer for bradford being great believe me…where under a rebuilding year again so we must get the best PLAYER!!! blackmon is nice dont get me wrong but way to many good WR in FA and only once in a while can u find a sure starting lineman like kalil with star quality!!!!! come on man…..
by Joshua_rams_truefan on Feb 22, 2012 9:23 PM CST up reply actions
Yea and which one would want to come here
Considering we won’t be able to pay them big money because of our limited cap and I’m supposing we want to get other players.
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 10:37 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Defensive end
We should draft Coples.
Been losing sleep over Rams football since 1999.
Steven Jackson is a beast, a legend, a HoFer and should be treated as such.
by Joe Mazzi on Feb 22, 2012 2:24 PM CST via mobile reply actions
wow
just drafted a DE and u want another young 1 wow thats gonna really help our team out…
by Joshua_rams_truefan on Feb 22, 2012 4:44 PM CST up reply actions
Yes it will.
2 men enter 1 man leaves. THOSE ARE THE RULES OF THUNDER DOME!
"I learned that Madonna will be singing at the Super Bowl. I thought this was football not the soundtrack to your menopause." ~ RAMpage28
You dont see the dire need?
Been losing sleep over Rams football since 1999.
Steven Jackson is a beast, a legend, a HoFer and should be treated as such.
by Joe Mazzi on Feb 22, 2012 4:51 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
I dont
give long and Quinn some big ass DTs and we’re all gravy on the line.
by jmo53 on Feb 22, 2012 4:57 PM CST via Android app up reply actions
In all seriousness, we're a stud DT away from one of the best front-4s in football.
I was joking.
Been losing sleep over Rams football since 1999.
Steven Jackson is a beast, a legend, a HoFer and should be treated as such.
by Joe Mazzi on Feb 22, 2012 5:07 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
O-line
I think you guys (at least most of you) nailed it. Won’t matter much who’s receiver if Bradford is injured. How they draft however will depend alot on how they rank these guys. If Jeff and Les don’t think Kalil is that much better than someone they can get later (say J. Martin or Reiff), it makes alot of sense to trade down. We need to draft an O-Lineman (or 2) that we think can start right away in the first few rounds though.
OL
For sure but receiver is very close 2nd still say we trade our pick hopefully with Cleveland and get Reiff or Decastro / Blackmon or Wright or maybe even Alshon . But hopefully 2 of those players are Rams.
by Friendo4507 on Feb 22, 2012 3:23 PM CST via mobile reply actions
OL
For sure but receiver is very close 2nd still say we trade our pick hopefully with Cleveland and get Reiff or Decastro / Blackmon or Wright or maybe even Alshon . But hopefully 2 of those players are Rams.
by Friendo4507 on Feb 22, 2012 3:23 PM CST via mobile reply actions
We need the BPA after trading down so it's difficult to imagine not getting Blackmon then a OT, but
Personally I’d be happy with retaining Lloyd, dropping Smith and signing another WR. Kalil, then Poe, then Travis Lewis in the draft. If we’re lucky enough to trade down, I’t gotta be BPA OT, DT, OLB, however it plays out. I’d throw in an interios lineman as well. If we somehow managed 4 picks in the first 2 rounds I would like one OT, then a DT, OLB, and another O-lineman or DT
Wolf. Wolfgang Wolf
If we manage 4 picks in the first 2 rounds....
And we score big in the Free Agency… I’ll probably buy Season Tickets… I’ve never bought season tickets for a sport team before, but this would be my first for sure!!!
you wont be buying season tickets.
Unless your expectations for “Big” are low.
Definitely O-Line.
Also, DT and WR. The question was ‘upgrade’ not ‘draft.’
I’d love to be part of the round table next time. :)
Alex Song - Krunk as Fuck!
fair enough
I read it in the context of upgrade through the draft, FWIW, as there isn’t a lot of money to do so via FA. Based on the answers, I think everyone else did too. However, you bring up an interesting point. As far as participating, you asked first and have a different perspective, so hit up T.Ram. You’ve got my vote.
I think you’ll find your stipulation answered somewhere along the line (spoiler alert)!
Yeah I changed the headline too much.
Is that great man formally known as Tevin T. Broner, also I'm on twitter Follow @T_Bron
by Tevin Broner on Feb 22, 2012 5:18 PM CST up reply actions
I wasn't wrong, this as the question
1. What position do the Rams need to upgrade the most?
This was the boring one though, the other ones will be better.
Is that great man formally known as Tevin T. Broner, also I'm on twitter Follow @T_Bron
by Tevin Broner on Feb 22, 2012 5:26 PM CST up reply actions
no worrieis t.ram
One of the things I’ve learned, shortly, is that they don’t know what we do behind closed doors as it were. We all knew the question you were asking, based upon the context you were asking it in. As I did with the spolier alert, those questions will be answered in the future. We have a lot of stuff going forward, and many opportunities for members to be involved.
T Ram, it was great. Just so you guys know, we talk about articles beforehand. We write a bunch, then they are released as necessary and timely. I just want the fans to know, this is not a “post as you want” type site. We are very careful about what to write and when to release it. We also have to make sure you guys have stuff to read. That takes a lot of coordination.
As the noob, I was curious about all this. I now know how hard it is to keep info flowing.
My problem is I keep hitting post before prev…
What?
Wide Receiver. I would think to Rams fans that would be quite obvious. Sam Bradford can’t keep throwing to XFL players.
Why are you hating on the XFL? HE HATE ME!
2 men enter 1 man leaves. THOSE ARE THE RULES OF THUNDER DOME!
"I learned that Madonna will be singing at the Super Bowl. I thought this was football not the soundtrack to your menopause." ~ RAMpage28
Saffold
Are we really ready to write off Saffold?
On the left. He was always a right tackle but just played on the left better than Smith ...
Alex Song - Krunk as Fuck!
Guess we got the best WR's in the NFL. The Packers and Patriots are second and third to the Rams.
That is, if they’re such low a priority on most of the TST writer’s list. Hmmm… maybe I was watching the wrong football team last season. Thank God!
OL then WR
What if we trade with CLE for at least #4 and #22? I’d like Reiff at #4, Decastro at #22, and Sanu at #33. If we got CLE 2nd round pick maybe Konz falls there? Resign Lloyd for $5-$6mil a year and there you have it.
by jmo53 on Feb 22, 2012 4:45 PM CST via Android app reply actions
Those who favor OL
make it sound like Sam was hit almost as soon as he took the snap. I beg to differ. I saw many times last year when Sam was looking for a receiver beyond the four seconds most QBs get to throw the ball. Our OL was keeping the rush away for four seconds, but no WR could get open. I don’t care if you have five ProBowl linemen up there blocking for Sam, he will still get sacked because the WRs can’t get open. Yes, the offensive line needs help, but first we have to have WRs who can get open and put enough fear in the defense they have to play it straight and not blitz half the team.
Tell that to the Cowboys
they give up shit loads of sacks with one of the best receiving corps in football
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Last time I checked...
The Cowboys had a heck lot more points, yardage, and wins than the Rams did last year. They contended in the NFC East until the end of the season. Your point was?
the offense last season was way worse for them than previous years
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
BTW. The Rams had the most dropped passes in the league. Period.
If a defense has no fear of your receivers they can blitz all they want and you can’t do anything to stop them from plastering your QB. Like I said in an earlier post a good offensive line can only block defensive lineman, not defensive lineman AND defensive backs.
You guys are forgetting about the running game and how improved o-line will drastically improve taht
and improving that will improve everything.
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
You can only run the ball so much...
before you have to pass. Dropping passes gets you no where on 3rd downs. It’s no coincidence that almost every team in the playoffs last season had great passing games. Brick Top, I’m not saying there isn’t a problem with the o-line. It definitely needs patching and half the line is well overpaid for their output, but in no way do I think the line is worse off than our receiving core. The reason Bradford was sacked so much was because teams could stack 8 men on the line to run blitz and put a heavy rush on Bradford. There was no fear of our receivers torching them by doing so. Obviously its me, but I don’t see a major improvement on that front by drafting Kalil. Sure, a good LT will hold his own on the line, but you need to consider that defenses were overwhelming our offensive line by sending more defenders than could be defended. They sent more defenders because they could cover our receivers man to man, press coverage with near perfect success. Mix that with poor blitz pick-up by our runningbacks and you get the results that we saw last year. Until the Rams receivers make teams pay by actually catching passes it won’t matter who’s blocking for Bradford.
Why can't you be our GM
These are precisely my thoughts. Most games I watched, our QB at the time (depending on which game) was having enough time to get the ball out. We gave up 55 sacks over the season, and I’d say at least 40% of that was due to receivers not getting open. The receivers will also help the run game more than just a new LT for the aforementioned reason. Get someone who requires double coverage, have one less guy to stop the run and/or blitz.
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 22, 2012 8:38 PM CST up reply actions
Ha! I'd like to be the GM of the Rams, but...
my wife would divorce because of all the long hours I’d have to put in. The pay would be much better though.
i agree 100 percent
*Drew Bress Will Never Forget The Day He Got Chris Longed!!!!
by Ramzman18 on Feb 23, 2012 12:33 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
RB's plural?
McDaniels stupid packages he ran last year barely had one RB back there to pick up extra blitzers. We had no training camp last year and no time to get Bradford aquainted with the offense. That would explain holding the ball too long. Bradford had no chemistry with his recievers. We didn’t run the ball well last year because we didn’t get any push. That results in no possession time and 3 and out after 3 and out. Another reason why our defense never had a chance last year. They played most of the minutes and got wore out game after game. Why don’t people realize guys like Kalil aren’t going to be there after the draft. WR’s will be available after Kalil and in free agency. Free Agency start March 13. The draft starts beginning of April. I have a feeling that WR won’t be such a huge need coming out of free agency. I think they’re gonna go get a legit number 1 wr. There will be no Young Quality LT at a bargain rate available in free agency. Nor do the other LT’s in the draft measure up to Kalil’s abilities.
While agree that LT is a hard position to fill I disagree with your comments regarding availability of wide receivers.
If wide receivers will be available after the draft like you said then why weren’t the Rams able to get a clear cut WR1 last season? Sure, wide receivers will be available if you want ANY wide receiver. Trust me, all of the available WR1 will either be franchised or they will be gobbled up by other teams willing to shower them with cash a couple of weeks before the draft even begins. The Rams will either will pony up cash to get their starting WR at the start of free agency or they will have to draft high for an elite WR if they want someone at that position who can move the chains and score. If not then Rams fans had better get used to last season’s offense because I don’t believe we’ll see much progress. All the excuses you named about why the Rams couldn’t get it going on offense (other than McDaniel’s package… and I’m not going there… just a joke) was a problem that all 32 teams had to deal with. I hope Kalil can catch passes cause thats what they’re going to be relegated to when they finally realize for the 5th season in a row that they should have taken getting an elite receiver seriously.
Not after the draft.
I must have misstated what I meant. I meant to say that there are a healthy crop of WR’s available in this years free agency. Free agency comes first then the draft. If we can get a possible number 1 wr in free agency and maybe another slot guy then our need for WR just went down a bit. I’m not saying there will definatly will be alot of #1 guys available. There won’t, and I’m not against drafting a WR that the scouts think can be that homerun threat. DeSean Jackson would be nice ehh? I just think missing Kalil to get Blackmon would be counterproductive. We could select Kalil and still get a solid WR in the draft.
I see your point
but Bell is overpaid, Brown is overpaid, and Smith is an injury prone bust. We still need OL. I’m hoping Lloyd resigns at a decent price and we get a Sanu, Wright, or Jeffrey in the 2nd.
by jmo53 on Feb 22, 2012 6:48 PM CST via Android app up reply actions
O and D line
Rams trade with Cleveland and take Reiff and Fletcher Cox in the 1st. In the second the Rams grab Sanu to solidify the second option for Bradford. In free agency we can snag Lloyd back or get a VJAX or Bowe and maybe Rocky mcintosh to help out with the linebackers.
mock draft from SI
i just want to say that I hope Don Banks is right
Good Mock..
Be careful who you can a child because if I'm a child you're a pedofile and I be damned if I stand here and get chewed out by a pervert..
- Peter Griffin
by RG31 on Feb 22, 2012 6:20 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
that is a TERRIBLE mock.
If you're not on the Blackmon Bandwagon watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Vf6e1Lz3Pw
haha, the entire draft is terrible
granted he got a couple right, other than that it’s horrible for every team, lions take an ot in first? seriously? i dont think this guy did his homework lol.
If you're not on the Blackmon Bandwagon watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Vf6e1Lz3Pw
I thought Glenn was a OG not OT?
by jmo53 on Feb 22, 2012 8:26 PM CST via Android app up reply actions
If that's how it were to play out I'd rather keep the second pick.
We could get Kalil there, and then pick up Alshon Jeffery with the first pick of the second round.
quick question
What will Salas roll be with Amendola returning? Depth? And same with Pettis(if he’s even still a Ram)?
by jmo53 on Feb 22, 2012 6:42 PM CST via Android app reply actions
Too easy...o-line
LT little more it’s an important position…the blind spot…ANYONE think different let m know why..?
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 7:40 PM CST via mobile reply actions
Great, Bradford will be sacked in 4.3 seconds instead of 4.0 seconds.
No receivers = same results as 2011.
So bradford had 4 seconds to throw?
Also, you think that even though we replaced three lineman this year that we can ignore that for a receiver? I’m not being a smart ass, I’m really asking lol
by Ram_Redemption on Feb 22, 2012 8:20 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Not saying ignore the line.
But a good chunk of the TST staff think that WR is 4th or 5th on the list of pressing needs. I watched all 16 games last year and it was obvious to me what the problem was. Injuries to the line, some poor protection… sure. The line did hold its own against the same or weaker competion. However the receiving core couldn’t shed coverage and the route running was weak against the weakest of secondaries. And even when receivers were opened they often dropped the passes that was thrown to them. No question in my mind the receiving core is clearly the weakest link on the team.
Sorry I think
LT DT then WR maybe WR over dt but online number one for sure
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 8:54 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
I think reciever is our second need and this draft is drop enough to get them in round 2
Jeffery is reportedly down to 217 and running UNDER a 4.5 gimme him in round 2 kalil in round 1
by Ram_Redemption on Feb 22, 2012 8:55 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
If
Jeffery runs anything near a 4.5 and weighs under 225, he’s going in the first round.
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 22, 2012 9:59 PM CST up reply actions
Gotta agree, as a positional comparison,
WR is a big need. I still have to think OT is a bigger need based on how pass protection and run blocking skill set help playmakers do their thing. I would be happy with OT up high & either Wright or Sanu if we traded with CLE at 22.
Oline held it's own?
I can’t think of one game besides the New Orleans game where our O-line held it’s own? Steven was stunted repeatedly at the line of scrimmage all year. Sam didn’t play what…2 or 3 games because of a high ankle sprain. Sam regressed because of this line. Not staying healthy was the problem? Maybe because part of that equation is we need youth not overpaid vets that are injury prone. Last year was a bad year for injuries almost a freak year. One quarterback after another last year was injured. Being the Rams QB is like being squad leader on Hamburger Hill. Call in the reserves. Ask Kellen Clemons how that works. Dude nearly had his legs snapped in the last game of the year.
Not solely fault of the line
There was no running room because no receiver demanded more than single coverage and the box was stacked. The sack numbers were high because even when there was a pocket, the receivers couldn’t separate against man coverage. When the throws were made (Which Sam made some beautiful ones) the receivers often dropped them. This led to third and long situations very often, where opponents could send a ton of pressure at Bradford. Our offensive line will look a LOT better with a more talented receiving corps.
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 23, 2012 12:25 AM CST up reply actions
So who's gonna be our LT next year?
Don’t say sign a free agent LT. Cause there won’t be one and if there is we won’t be able to afford it. If we let JS stay at RT we risk making the same mistake we made last year. He will likly be cut because he can’t stay healthy (concussions). So I’m not saying we don’t need WR’s cause we do. But LT’s are harder to come by and at a bargain rate which rookies are more affordable than free agents. There are other wr’s in this draft. Colston of the Saints was drafted late. In free agency this year WR is the deepest catagory. Can’t pass on a guy like Kalil.
you can
Kalil is an amazing prospect, and if we were to stay at #2, or if he was available at #4 if we trade down, he’s definitely the guy we should go with. But the thing that will sure up our pass protection most is having reliable targets to go to. So I’m agreeing that Kalil is our guy (mostly because the only WR I really like in this year’s class is Kendall Wright who I don’t see going that high), but they’re not as lost as our receiving corps is right now. The discussion is about the top need of the team, not just who we should take with our first pick. So I think we’re kind of in agreement (maybe?)
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 23, 2012 1:05 AM CST up reply actions
Do you ever listen Colin Cowherd ESPN radio?
He was talking today about how important it is for teams to address their need for Tackle through the draft. His point was that almost every single Grade A tackle prospect to come out of college get drafted early and get a huge contract and are tied up with the team for a long time. Meaning long contracts worth alot of money. So the guys who are available in free agency cost more and are more likely to get injured IE the reason they we let free to walk to start with. WR is the deepest catagory in free agency this year. Meaning there are alot of quality WR’s in free agency. More so than any other position. Free Agency comes first then the draft. Let’s see if they can’t address this problem through free agency with a proven player.
What a guy can’t do weather in the past at his last gig and know something about sports. I once met a guy that could do more than one thing. I forgot his name though.
Most of the guys availablie in free agency at LT and RT are guys who were drafted by there prior team and we signed to a long contract lasting through the golden days of their career for less money than free agency would demand…bidding war. These are gusy who were let to walk because resigning costs too much and they are towards the end of their career just like what happened with Orlando Pace. We drafted him signed him to a 10 year deal at a bargain rate. Had him be a pro bowler for his career with us….the meat of his career. And once the contract resign over balanced his age and liklihood of performing and lasting he was let go. The Texans paid him what his agent wanted and he got hurt not long after that and retired not long after that. The Rams need a foundation not a band aid. This regime is building a house not remodeling one.
No, but his last name gives me the giggles.
Once again, I agree that Kalil should definitely be our first pick if he’s there at 4. But we’re in a unique position this year where we can really cash in our pick to the highest bidder. In the long run, we need more of a quantity of talent than the quality of just one LT. And once again, I still think that the receivers are the biggest need. Linemen get demoralized just like any other position. If receivers aren’t making plays when the linemen are doing their job, the linemen will get sick of doing their job. If we were to pick up grade A (or even B at this point) receiver talent, I think our team would have a lot higher of a ceiling for this coming season than if we were to pick up the franchise LT.
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 23, 2012 1:30 AM CST up reply actions
Cowherd can be annoying
He talks way too much about New York sports and LA sports. But alot of the time he’s right on. You out to watch him or listen to him on AM or satelitte radio at work. He know what he’s talking about when it comes to football.
I agree we need WRs but I don't believe Blackmon is the answer for what we need
I don’t see him as the total package to be a number one WR. I see him as a Anquan Bolden type player
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
I Completely Agree
Look at Kendall Wright, however. He can be a #1 in the way that Steve Smith or Greg Jennings is a number 1, which would still leave us with a need for a big receiver. But, if he can stay healthy, I think that Alexander could fill that role. He had some very bright spots in an otherwise dismal season. Also, there could be some second round options for another big receiver, but I think taking a receiver in the 1st and 2nd would be an absolute mistake with our other needs.
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 22, 2012 8:42 PM CST up reply actions
Thank you!
For as long as this has been going on, I’ve looked at Blackman and seen Boldin. No better comparison, imo. He’s not a “go-to playmaking” receiver. Clutch and reliable? Yes. Homerun hitter? No.
Been losing sleep over Rams football since 1999.
Steven Jackson is a beast, a legend, a HoFer and should be treated as such.
by Joe Mazzi on Feb 22, 2012 11:11 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
I'll take Boldin any day of the week over what we currently have.
Nuff said. You don’t need a home run hitter if you have receivers like him. Did the Patriots need a home run hitter to make the Super Bowl?
No.
But having 2 helped the Giants win it. Anyone who would pay a top 10 pick for Anquan Boldin is psychotic.
Been losing sleep over Rams football since 1999.
Steven Jackson is a beast, a legend, a HoFer and should be treated as such.
by Joe Mazzi on Feb 23, 2012 11:54 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
Where did top 10 pick come from?
I was talking about him being a free agent. But yes, if I knew he would perform like he has in his career I’d say he’s definitely worth a top 10 pick in a draft. His yards after the catch compare well with home run type receivers. Only he does it differently by knocking the crap outta corners that get in his way after the catch. He’s tough for a defensive back to bring down, which just as effective as having a receiver with 4.4 speed. Anyone that thinks that he is less than a very good receiver is crazy.
Pat's need a homerun hitter?
I’m not a Pats fan in anyway shape or form. I barely have respect for them. But…..they all but embarrassed the Giants secondary all game in the SB. They were on dropped pass from the flood gate opening. Welker makes that catch. Game over.
Gronk is what I call a HR hitter
makes plays down the field constantly
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
4.3 seconds to throw? :)
I dont’ know about this 4.3 secs to throw talk. But one thing that definatly help Eli and the Giants throught the entire playoffs last year besides WR’s making circus and reliable catches was. The offensive line play that Eli became accustom to. He all day to sit back there and pick the secondary apart. So did Tom all the way through the playoffs. Look how well the Giants front 4 were able to get after opponents QB. They were less effective against the Pats. That gave Tom time to pick apart the Giants secondary, barring a couple 3 and outs due to dropped passes. I’ve heard more than one ex-coach and now analyst on TV say that it wouldn’t matter who Eli was throwing to with all the time he has to scan the field. They said that repeatdly and it was obvious. He had his own zipcode in the pocket.
player most needed is...
the one that helps the most, easy enough to say but still true. at one time I saw no need for the big fat guys running around when you could line up your running back and receivers and full speed ahead but if you don’t have a good o-line you can’t run or pass, I see all the posts for Blackmon but he will be frustrated when sam goes down and the backup comes in to just finish up. check the free agents out there, not many good LT’s but some pretty good receivers, so who are the other teams letting go? no doubt the QB is the most important, but if you plan to run or pass, gotta have good OT’s we ain’t gonna fix it in one year, get competitive maybe but we must first pay for the sins of the past…IMO
I disagree with every one of you on everything
What should we do? Draft nobody. Sign nobody in FA. Set a new precedent for the league. Hello, trendsetters!
Turf Show Times editor, Mocking the Draft writer, and I gots that Twitter too, yo.
"my keyboard won't corporate, neighter will my smell check." - Knoxfan
well we know that signing any quality tier 1 free agent is out of the picture this year
so we must draft well
you have to draft well every year
or roughly 75% of the time of you get left behind
Turf Show Times editor, Mocking the Draft writer, and I gots that Twitter too, yo.
"my keyboard won't corporate, neighter will my smell check." - Knoxfan
by 3k on Feb 22, 2012 9:30 PM CST up reply actions
worried most about wide receivers --thats plural and quarterback
2 key positions by the way
you want plaxico
you want to win the 2005 Super Bowl…
Turf Show Times editor, Mocking the Draft writer, and I gots that Twitter too, yo.
"my keyboard won't corporate, neighter will my smell check." - Knoxfan
by 3k on Feb 22, 2012 9:31 PM CST up reply actions
I love you
Let us hold a public protest in downtown Moline
Turf Show Times editor, Mocking the Draft writer, and I gots that Twitter too, yo.
"my keyboard won't corporate, neighter will my smell check." - Knoxfan
by 3k on Feb 22, 2012 9:31 PM CST up reply actions
Ok.We get it..
We obviously need to address the o-line and it is damn well top priority but I believe Cleveland wants the RG as bad as they want Lebron back and we just can’t say no to the 4th and 22nd and yes Khalil is who we need but I see him being gone at 3 and Blackmon is our 1b option that Sam desperately needs make him the pick and pray that Mike Adams is there at 22 badabing badaboom
by RamKey17 on Feb 22, 2012 10:34 PM CST via mobile reply actions
Mike Adams?
No thanks rather take Reiff instead of Blackmon and I’ll even take Castro…then get Sanuuuu 22..
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 10:40 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Wouldn't mind Sanu
Reminds me of a slower Donnie Avery. I just don’t seeing us not taking Blackmon if he’s there and Khalils not
by RamKey17 on Feb 22, 2012 10:45 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Idk my gut says different
Fisher is an old school coach…he likes to run and he wants to win in the trenches…
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 10:50 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Sanuuuu
Is better than Avery he’s slower but talker stranger and can block…he’s more complete in my opinion…
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 10:50 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Avery could of been a beast
IMO he was making folks look silly his rookie year I think he would of been Sams deep threat for sure
by RamKey17 on Feb 22, 2012 10:55 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Could of... -.-
I was an Avery fan but o well…gotta look forward…I really think Sanu is the best wr in the draft…
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 10:57 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Yeah...
I just liked he was out of the H like me bias I guess but your right and the future is Blackmon!
by RamKey17 on Feb 22, 2012 10:59 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
You think so?
I think the Pick is Kalil
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 11:00 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Oh and your smoking rox if you think he’s the best Blackmon Alshon then maybe Sanu maybe
by RamKey17 on Feb 22, 2012 11:02 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Well we will have to see
I think Alshon is better than JB but I really think Sanu is the most polished…he has hands and he’s physical and he’s big…and no I don’t smoke haha
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 11:10 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
Sanu is 3 inches taller and 31 pounds heavier than Avery.
How does he remind you of him?
by jmo53 on Feb 22, 2012 11:15 PM CST via Android app up reply actions
You should watch some Sanu film
He’s not anything close to Donnie Avery. I don’t think we have the same potential risk of bad or whimpy draft picks with Fisher that we had with the last4-5 HCs.
Wolf. Wolfgang Wolf
Mike Adams sucks according to Buckeye and I trust his judgment
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Go Oline!!
I hope fisher goes Kalil like he hints he’s leaning towards….
In Nomeni Patri et Filli et Spiritus Sancti....Amen
by RamTX on Feb 22, 2012 10:44 PM CST via mobile reply actions
If Lloyd re-signs than
HYFR Lord knows SJ could use him just as much as #8
by RamKey17 on Feb 22, 2012 10:57 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
I don't like Adams much either
But if we get 22 pick I think Fisher and Snead may be considered him “a team that’s going to run the football and protect the quarterback.” He look like a best run blocking OT prospects? in the draft with his size:6-7 and weight: 323.
Sorry for Bad grammar my English is not good
Kalil
Kalil is actually 6’9" and 300lbs. He’s gaine about 15 lbs. since the end of USC’s season.
I think his height is 6-7 same as Adams but a bit lighter for around 300 lbs
and yes I read some where that he now gain 10-15 lbs to the combine.
Sorry for Bad grammar my English is not good
Kalil on NFL Live Today
We are one of the few teams to use a number 2 pick on LT in the last 15 years. The last was Jason Smith, not a total bust, just has health issues and isn’t starter material. Not saying he couldn’t develop into that guy or contribute some other way. I watched Kalil on NFL Live on ESPN today. Wow. Dude is huge. And fast, strong, explosive, driven. What else do you want in a LT. Back in 97 Orlando Pace was a lock and I think this guy could be too. I would hate to trade down and miss Kalil. If we were wanting to choose Blackmon trading down would make sense. Becasue Mel Kiper has Blackmon 5th on his big board. The TST’ers are right. After the draft there are no quality LT’s left to choose from. The good one’s that are drafted get signed to long contracts. Rarely do young quality Tackles appear in free agency and when they do they cost a boat load. Plus if we drafted Kalil we’d save a ton of money because of how expensive that position is to fill with a veteran free agent. The league’s new agreement between the owners and players did away with the “Blind Bucks” being wasted on rookie contrats they don’t deserve. Kalil will get paid though, we need this guy to build for the future. Not put a bandaid on it. Also, if we he turns out to be what we think he is. Then no more worries over there and we can focus on those playmakers so many people are worried about. But, I’m like alot of you. I see past this WR corps and believe in building up offensive and defensive lines first, then go to the appendages. Alot of good WR’s have been drafted late, but you could make the case for O-lineman. Orlando Pace wasn’t snatched up in the 7th round. If we did trade down it would be possible that Reiff would still be there and he’s supposed to be pretty good but I don’t know about Kalil good. I think Kalil is leaps and bounds above the rest of the LT candidates.
He's VERY Good
From what I’ve been hearing. However, we do need more quantity of talented players than one quality first rounder. So if there aren’t good enough offers for our #2, then I think he’s a lock for us. But if we can pick up two first rounders this year or maybe even more? That’s tough to turn down. Maybe Blackmon will have a huge combine/pro day, we’ll trade down to #4, and then Minnesota gets to make the choice for us. But, that’s assuming Blackmon really shows up (or Jeffery, who I’m hearing good things about today).
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 23, 2012 12:14 AM CST up reply actions
Combine is good to have but.
But, it doesn’t mean everything. It’s crazy how some guys run average even below average 40 times and end up being a beast in pads. I almost think game film from college is a better measuring stick. The combine to me is more to see if the guy is driven and is working hard still and not coasting. A few of the top QB’s are throwing there or attending. Opting to have a pro day on campus. RG3 being one of them. I’d hate to say it casue I believe in Bradford. But, I bet if you plugged RG3 into our system next year and let him start all year he might outperform Bradford. Might. Hindsight is always 20/20. But we could be missing a brick of gold in RG3. But to draft him does not make sense.
I was suggesting
That if blackmon had a big combine/pro day, the hype on him might go up and the Vikings might be more likely to take him at #3 over Kalil. I think it would be a bad move on their part, but if he does well enough we might be able to land Kalil at 4.
by CodyAllenFTW on Feb 23, 2012 1:10 AM CST up reply actions
Incase im not here
I feel me RG31 and DA RAMS! All have the same thoughts and minds lol cause everything them guys say I always agree with 100 percent
*Drew Bress Will Never Forget The Day He Got Chris Longed!!!!
by Ramzman18 on Feb 23, 2012 12:37 AM CST via mobile reply actions
We'll make sure they know they're representing you too
Even though you’re in the wrong camp, anyone who drives Dodge RAM pickups needs love, IMO.
Wolf. Wolfgang Wolf
its sweet tho
Its a red dodge ram rt 1500 2011 its like the chalenger but a truck
*Drew Bress Will Never Forget The Day He Got Chris Longed!!!!
by Ramzman18 on Feb 23, 2012 11:53 AM CST via mobile up reply actions
I think you are pronouncing Driven wrong.
You word it in a sentence like the word driving. Which leads me to believe you read it that way too. A person can be driven mentally. When they are in a car they are driving. It’s all about the suffix.
I think we should cut the whole offense
Spend a year eating dead money and start over.
Wolf. Wolfgang Wolf
I agree with Douglas M.
Except I’d add a #1 WR in there somewhere. That means keeping Lloyd AND get a proven FA like V. Jackson or Colston. Bradford has got to have credible reliable weapons or he’ll remain ineffective. Pettis, Salas, Alexander and Gibson are pretty damn worthless. Clayton is maimed.
The offensive line is offensive. They can’t run block or pass block. Smith will never be anything except an overpaid Alex Barron Jr. with injury problems. You can’t convert a failed former TE, then LT, then RT into a good guard as some people seem to be dreaming. Jason Brown and Jacob Bell’s time has come to leave STL.
And, while we couldn’t score any points last year, the Defense is mush at DT, OLB and CB. Those three positions MUST be addressed or we’ll get run the hell all over again. Don’t expect the seriously injured Bartell or Fletcher to be back at CB either.
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