Turf Show Times

Mock draft review: Walter Football covers the Rams offensive needs

2010-03-13T13:00:25Z

Could Benn be what the Rams need at WR?

Mock draft season is in full swing...as you may have heard. With the Combine in the book and Pro Days underway, lots more mock drafts are going deeper, beyond the first round, so I thought it would be worth taking a look at one of the mock drafts and the draft picks it predicts for the St. Louis Rams. Today, we're going with the always sturdy Walter Football mock draft.

Round 1
QB Sam Bradford - No surprise here, and the debate about the number one pick is between four players at two different positions.

Round 2
WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois - No question the Rams could use a receiver and Benn is a guy well known to draftniks and football fans in the St. Louis area. USC's Damian Williams might be a better fit; this mock draft has him going at #44 to the Patriots.

Other options according to this mock: DE Carlos Dunlap, CB Devin McCourty, WR Brandon LaFell, CB Kareem Jackson

Round 3
TE Aaron Hernandez, Florida - I love the idea of drafting a solid TE this year, but Hernandez comes with question marks. Can he run routes well enough at this level? Is he tall enough at 6' 2"? He has the college numbers without a doubt.

Other options per this mock: WR Demaryius Thomas, S Chad Jones, QB Colt McCoy.

Round 4
OLB Dekoda Watson, Florida State - Good OLBs for 4-3 systems can be found later than the first two rounds of the draft thanks in part to the predominance of 3-4 systems. I don't know anything about him, but his scouting reportmakes him sound as though he could be the player the Rams need on the weakside, given his athleticism and ability to play the run.

Other options per this mock: OT Kyle Calloway, QB Dan LeFevour, DE Austin Lane, S Myron Rolle, RB Anthony Dixon.

That mock only goes four rounds, so we'll stop there.

Likes: Definitely gets at the Rams needs on offense. I like the Watson pick in the fourth round. Spagnuolo and Flajole have a good track record getting the most out of their LBs, e.g. David Vobora.

Dislikes: I guess I want to see a DE, if the right one is available, somewhere in the early rounds. I don't know what to think about WR Benn; he has some critics out there after a weak show at the Combine. Some question his devotion too. If it came down to a WR in that spot, I'd prefer USC's Williams.

TST talks to Rams DE Chris Long

2010-03-12T15:52:55Z

Chris Long talks to Kirkwood High School athletes on March 9.

View full size photo »

As I mentioned yesterday, I had the chance to talk to St. Louis Rams defensive end Chris Long this week. Long was at Kirkwood High School with the Gatorade G Series Mobile Locker Room talking to student athletes there about the importance of proper training, nutrition and hydration strategies and to help inspire them to perform at their best.

Chris shared his thoughts on the defensive line, the way forward for the Rams and much more. The full interview is below. A huge thanks to Chris and the folks with Gatorade on behalf of everyone at TST for making this happen.

VanRam: Chris, how are you today?

Chris Long: I'm doing well. I'm down here at this very nice high school, Kirkwood High School. I can't believe how nice it is. They've got this G Series Locker Room out here...it's pretty spectacular.

Below the fold: Long's thoughts on the Rams DL, the team's direction for 2010, what he does in the offseason and more on the G Series.

VR: Tell us a little about the G Series Locker Room and your experience in Kirkwood today.

CL: First of all, what a nice high school they have. It's pretty unbelievable. I walked in there and said 'I wish I could go back to high school.' Their facilities are awesome. They've got this G Series Mobile Locker Room which is pretty cool; it's like a pro locker room on wheels. It's got the stations where you can weigh in and get your fluid loss total before and after, which is stuff we do. Actually, we don't even have that.

I'm here talking about the Gatorade G Series which is a really cool thing I can't wait for. It's going to come out in April. It tailors to athletes' nutritional needs before during and after which is something I think is kind of cutting edge, so I'm pretty exctied about that.

VR: What does it do for an athlete before and after a game?

CL: People forget about the after. People think 'it's over, no big deal.' But you've got to replace the things you lose and with Gatorade recovery drink...it's going to help a lot. It's got protein, carbs and electrolytes, things that you lose during competition. Then you've got Gatorade Prime. I cant wait to use it. You know, it's very important to put those things into you body that you're going to be losing as well.

VR: Is Gatorade Prime a drink, an energy bar?

CL: You know, I asked the same thing. It's kind of in-between. It's still a drink. It's in a really cool package. I'm excited about what it's got in there. Me, as an athlete, I'm excercising multiple times a day...lifts, practice. Bring a pro athlete you don't always have time to eat a meal. This Gatorade Prime is going to fuel you substantially before a competition.

VR: You going to get some of that stuff at Rams Park this year?

CL: Yeah, I'm hoping so. If we don't, I'm going to push for it.

VR: Since we're talking about locker rooms, let me ask you about the Rams locker room. GIve us an idea what it's been like in the face of a tough year. I know the record suffered, but the team did make some strides down the stretch.

CL: First off, I'd say the locker room, although we were in a bad spot record-wise, the locker room was doing really well. We all meshed together. We all worked really hard. Every week we came out there like we had a lot on the line, which we did. We're not going to look backwards, except to build on the positives. This is a new year, and we've got to start over fresh. Nobody's going to give us wins; we've got to go earn them.

VR: Tell us about Spags' philosophy on the defensive line, your job and the expectations for the other three guys up front with you.

CL: As a defensive line, when Spags came from New York, we saw what the strength of that team was in winning the Super Bowl, and I think the biggest premium is on defensive linemen and quarterbacks. Those two positions are really important. I'm excited to see how we're going to get better as a defensive line and put a lot of that onus on us to win ball games.

VR: What are the positive things you that you personally and as a team took away from last season? What are the things you're going to build on in 2010?

CL: I really do believe we improved as a team. I think when you have a totally new regime coaching-wise you have to get that chemsitry going. I think it takes some time. It's a new staff, it's a new ideology, there are new guys in the locker room. I think we built that foudnation last year through adversity. We're going to try to build on that for sure.

As an individual, I feel like I was able to improve toward the end of the year and play a little bit more the way I want to play. I'm going to build on the things I was doing well and fix the things I wasn't doing well.

VR: You mentioned that second half of the season. That second half, you picked up the sacks, got the stuff on the stat sheet. What was different about that half of the season for you?

CL: The big difference was the just the sacks. I was playing the run well most of the season. I had to pick up my pass rushing a little bit, and there were some things I did getting more comfortable with the scheme, adjusting my game a litle bit and just kind of let it fly once I felt comfortbale with the scheme. I'm not the only one who had the burden of learning a new scheme. But once you master that scheme it was just a great scheme. I feel like a lot of guys improved. I was certainly one of those guys, but there's a long way to go. I think the biggest thing is that I was getting to the quarterback more.

VR: Anything else you want to add about 2010?

CL: I'm just really looking forward to it. We start on Monday with our offseason program. We had great attendance for guys last year, which is not something you take for granted. In my expereince so far, these guys, this group of guys have been really special as far as showing up everyday and working relly hard. I know it's going to pay off. I'm excited to see how hard we get after it this offseason.

VR: How did you react to the news that the Rams had signed Fred Robbins?

CL: I was really excited. I mean here's a guy with great experience, a Super Bowl ring...a great player. I've watched Fred Robbins play and really admired his play. He'll be able to help us all out. He's an expereinced guy. I've tried to draw on the experience of guys like Leonard Little, James Hall and La'roi Glover...how to play the game, how to work every day, those things that make you a better player.

VR: James Hall and Leonard Little have both been in New Orleans this week. Are you hoping the Rams can bring back one or both of those guys?

CL: I love those guys and they've given me a lot as a player. I've learned a lot from them. Any day I can spend in the locker room with Leonard and James is a good day. They add a lot to the team, on the field and off the field, so I'd love to see them back. I understand how this business works. If it's their time to go, they've got to go, but I'd love to see them back.

VR: What's your offseason like?

CL: I try to get away from it for a little bit. I didn't do much football stuff at all for a couple weeks after it [the season]. I think it's important to let your mind kind of get away from the game a little bit. But once Feburary starts you can get back into it. It's hard not to think about it. I start to watch film, do some self scouting and also watch tape of some other players in the league to try to take my game to the next level.

VR: Message for Rams fans in 2010?

CL: Just have faith in us. I know it's been tough, but I think that you guys can see every week our best effort. I know it's a business and we have to perform. The one thing we're going to do is bring it every week. We've got a good group of guys, and I believe that good things happen to good people. We've got a locker room full of good people willing to go the extra mile, and I think we're going to get over the hump. Just have faith in us and it'll be fun to watch in 2010.

Thanks again to Chris for taking the time to talk with TST.

Random Ramsdom, 3/12: Atogwe sitting out offseason

2010-03-12T15:00:28Z

More photos » Nam Y. Huh - AP

Will Northwestern quarterback Mike Kafka Metamorphosis into a solid NFL player?

Browse more photos »

A quick look at what's happening around the St. Louis Rams.

Oshiomogho Atogwe will not attend offseason workouts with the Rams. This is not an unusual move for a player in contract limbo. The Rams are reportedly trying to negotiate a long term deal, but he could very well be traded or pursued as a free agent.

Spagnuolo and Devaney were on hand for Nebraska's Pro Day yesterday to see DT Ndamukong Suh, a potential candidate for the team's first overall pick in the draft. As you might have expected, Suh impressed.

You can make what you want about a college quarterback's completion percentage and what it says about their potential for the NFL, but take a look at this list of first round QBs who did not complete at least 60 percent of their passes during their final college season.

Running back Deji Karim of Southern Illinois University posted a 40 time of 4.38 and a vertical jump of 43" working out at Northwestern's Pro Day yesterday. The workout may impress, but it's important to point out that Karim was the nation's leading rusher. Read Rob Rang's full rundown on Karim.

The quarterback with the coolest name in the draft, Northwestern's Mike Kafka, also impressed at yesteday's Pro Day.

Here's the college Pro Day schedule for today: Arizona, Eastern Washington, Jacksonville State, Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon State, Purdue, Texas Christian, Urbana.

I'll have the Chris Long interview posted later this a.m.

Washington interested in Adam Carriker

2010-03-12T02:41:40Z

Here's a trade rumor to get you through the night. NFL.com's Jason La Canfora cites "league sources" as saying that the Washington Redskins have contacted the St. Louis Rams about the possibility of trading for DT Adam Carriker.

Carriker was the Rams first round pick in 2007. He struggled in his time with the Rams, missing the entirety of his third season in 2009 with a bum shoulder that he injured in the preseason...when he was competing with Gary Gibson for his starting job.

Who knows what to make of this. The Haslett connection certainly lends it some extra viability, and Carriker might be better suited as a DE in a 3-4 defense. If the Rams were willing to swap Carriker, what kind of return could they get? With Washington moving to the 3-4 there are bound to be some players not able to make the transition. DE Andre Carter could get moved according to the report, but that wouldn't exactly be a fair return for Carriker, who I believe still has some value. What would it take to get Jason Campbell?

I know Carriker isn't the most popular of Rams players, considering his draft spot, but he would have use as part of the Rams rotation at DT, and he's only got three years under his belt, having only played two of those years. He may never live up to his potential, but could be useful nonetheless.

Stay tuned. Just because someone is asking for a trade doesn't mean it will happen. Hat tip to TST member thisguy for the fanpost.

Remembering Merlin Olsen

2010-03-11T22:13:53Z

More photos » AP

2 days ago: FILE - This Dec. 4, 1976, file photo shows Merlin Olsen, right, of the Los Angeles Rams, battling Atlanta guard Gregg Kindle, in Los Angeles. Olsen died early Thursday, March 11, 2010, at a Los Angeles hospital. He was 69. (AP Photo/File)

Browse more photos »

I don't know how many readers here at Turf Show Times remember Merlin Olsen's playing days. His last season in the league was 1976. That's the year I was born, so needless to say I didn't see any of Olsen's games.

I don't think you can overstate what he brought to the game. You didn't even need to see him play to know that...though I think you'd have a much better appreciation for him if you had seen him play. At least now it's easy to access video of his playing time on demand.

Gil Brandt called Olsen the greatest defensive tackle ever, the prototype for the modern incarnation.

I got turned on to Olsen through his acting work. No, he was never an Academy Award winning type actor, but he was sincere enough to be a presence on the screen in whatever role he played. Yes, there was the Little House on the Prairie role, but I remember Olsen from three B Westerns he did, having caught them on Saturday afternoon reruns. The most memorable of which was The Undefeated, one of John Wayne's late career stinkers. Just because it wasn't the Searchers though doesn't mean it wasn't entertaining. It's also worth noting that The Undefeated, Olsen's first acting role of note, also featured Roman Gabriel. Playing in LA had its advantages.

RIP Merlin Olsen.

Saints marching in on James Hall

2010-03-11T20:36:52Z

More photos » Jeff Roberson - AP

Hall off to the Big Easy?

Browse more photos »

Oh the punnery! St. Louis Rams free agent DE James Hall is a priority for the New Orleans Saints who see Hall as the replacement for starting DE Charles Grant.

The Rams have openly stated a desire to bring back Hall and/or Leonard Little. Little, at 35, is more of a situational pass rusher at this point in his career, and the Saints are looking for an every down guy. That's postponed their visit with Little.

No word on any progress the Rams have made with either player.

Just my opinion, but defensive end has to be a priority in this draft...more than DT, again, in my opinion. I'll be interested to see what players are available in the second and third rounds for the Rams. We've talked about the possibility of the Rams leveraging their 33rd pick - the first of the second round - for more picks, but there's always the possibility of using it to trade up into the back end of the first round too.

Chris Long shared his thoughts on the situation with Little and Hall in an interview I conducted with him yesterday. Look for that tomorrow on TST. Shameless self-promotion.

More thinking on the Rams gamble with Atogwe

2010-03-11T18:12:08Z

More photos » Jeff Roberson - AP

Business doesn't always seem logical.

Browse more photos »

Everyone knew that the St. Louis Rams’ offer to RFA Oshiomogho Atogwe at the lowest, first right of refusal level would likely result in another team making him an offer. No team has presented Atogwe with an offer yet, but he is officially on one team’s radar: the Dallas Cowboys.

If the Cowboys, or any other team, make Atogwe an offer, the Rams have the right to match it and retain the services of the free safety or decline the opportunity to match it and let him walk…for no compensation.

Therein lies the rub. Because Atogwe is a fifth-year player, the RFA rules of the no-cap year treated him a bit differently, mandating that any other RFA offer would have paid him $6.9 million, 110 percent of the salary he received last year playing under the team’s franchise tag.

Probably, the thinking inside Rams Park was that they did not want to pay Atogwe almost $7 million, remarkably high for a safety who is good but hardly a game changer. Using the lowest tender gives the Rams a window to work out a long-term deal with the safety – with no offer by June 1, they have to either pay him the $6.9 million or let him walk. It also gives other teams the chance to talk with Atogwe, testing the market so to speak.

Of course, the Rams risk losing Atogwe by going this route because another team could insert a so-called "poison pill" into an offer, making it all but impossible for the Rams to match. That seems very unlikely to happen, and I bet the farm that GM Billy Devaney and VP Kevin Demoff gambled wisely on that probability in their decision to go this route with Atogwe.

Why is a poison pill unlikely? The owners hate it and have unofficially conspired not to use it in the wake of the Steve Hutcheson drama in 2006. That was the last time such an offer was used, to the great chagrin of the players union.

Now, the first paragraph about the Cowboys being interested scares lots of people because they’ve got money to play with. However, Jerry Jones is frightened of the poison pill, and even spoke out about the need to address the issue in the next CBA. So sayeth Jerry Jones:

Those are called unintended consequences there. What turns into trying to be competitive among clubs and what turns into trying to be fair for a player turns into being a disadvantage for the clubs.

According to the link at PFT, Jones feels vulnerable because the Cowboys could lose WR Miles Austin via that route. In fact, there’s speculation that his comments could shut down the RFA market entirely, a market that very rarely has much activity anyway. From PFT:

…the hidden genius of Jones' remarks could be that he possibly has foreclosed teams from choosing to sign any restricted free agents to offer sheets, since his comments arguably now compel use of the poison pill. Though the union can still cry collusion if no RFAs are pursued, it will be very easy for teams to argue that they prefer not to sacrifice draft picks in what many regard as the deepest pool of incoming talent in years.

Anyway, long story short, I don’t think you have to worry about any team using the poison pill to nab Atogwe, especially since he’s not enough of a difference maker to merit owners going that dangerous route. Now, some other team could very well make him an offer still, but it’s unlikely that he’ll get a deal that would pay him. Don’t believe it still? The Steelers resigned FS Ryan Clark to a four-year, $14 million deal with $5 million guaranteed and a $3 million signing bonus. I wouldn’t be surprised if Atogwe got a deal like that eventually.

Bottom line: O.J. Atogwe is not going to get $6.9 million per year, not from the Rams and not from any other team, and the Rams still have a good chance of hanging onto Atogwe. The Rams made a move that looks like a head-scratcher, but was a pretty smart calculation/gamble.

Merlin Olsen Passes Away at Age 69

2010-03-11T16:55:56Z

Merlin Olsen Passes Away at Age 69

Sad news today. Merlin Olsen, arguably the greatest defensive tackle of all time, and part of the legendary, greatest ever "Fearsome Foursome," passed away Wednesday night after a battle with Mesothelioma. May he rest in peace, one of the Greatest Rams ever.

Rams kick the tires on another former Eagle, OL Hank Fraley

2010-03-11T15:55:31Z

More photos » Amy Sancetta - AP

The Rams will visit with free agent OL Hank Fraley today.

Browse more photos »

The St. Louis Rams will visit with free agent C Hank Fraley to possibly add depth along their offensive line.

It should come as no surprise that Fraley is a former Eagle, playing there from 2001-2005, the same time Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo and offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur were coaching with that organization. Fraley has been with the Browns since 2006.

The Rams have added solid starters to the o-line, but depth in the middle, especially at center, is a critical need. C/G Mark Setterstrom was not tendered a RFA offer.

I can't speak to what kind of player Fraley is, though he seems like he'd be useful for depth, especially since he's an experienced center. We'll see what happens. I know there are plenty of people disappointed by the Rams free agent season haul, but finding quality depth this time of year is a smart way, if not very sexy, way to approach it.

PROGRAMMING NOTE: I had the chance to interview Rams DE Chris Long yesterday. We talked a little bit about Spagnuolo and Flajole's philosophy of the defense line, the situation with Leonard Little and James Hall and more. I'm transcribing the interview today, and plan to post it tomorrow. Stay tuned.

Rams spend time with OL Mike Johnson at 'Bama Pro Day

2010-03-11T12:44:10Z

More photos » Dave Martin - AP

Alabama OG Mike Johnson

Browse more photos »

Reading the draft talk lately, you might be surprised to learn that the St. Louis Rams are doing their due diligence on players other than the four potential number one picks. Yeah, crazy, huh?

A team official was in Alabama yesterday for the National Champs' Pro Day. After taking diet notes about Mount Cody's secret to slimming down from 370 to 348 lbs, the Rams' representative spent some quality time with First-Team All American offensive guard Mike Johnson. Center drills, including shotgun and under center snaps, were post-workout test administered by the Rams.

Though he was primarily Alabama's left guard, he has started at left tackle as well. Johnson has played all offensive line positions in his career thus far, except center. According to Johnson, many feel he projects as a center in the NFL, hence the snapping drills.

CBS Sports and partner NFL Draft Scout have him pegged as a third round pick. Walter Football has him in the 4th round.

Obviously, the Rams are and will look at lots of player between now and the end of April, but this is an indication that offensive linemen are on their mind. I can't speak much to Johnson's ability, other than having seen a pretty damn impressive Alabama run game a few times this season, but finding versatile linemen, at least a guy who can move smoothly between guard and center, would be a good player to have.

Random Ramsdom: 3/11/2010

2010-03-11T08:38:15Z

Halfway through March, and we have some good news: Mr. Fells is back. This was something I was hoping the Rams could pull off, and luckily they did (albeit for only one year). Here are some other juicy stories for you to sink your teeth into:

This Sam Bradford talk is all well and good, but let's stir up the pot, shall we? Here's a look at another quarterback taken at #1. Fat Camp might actually do him some good...
Mike Sando has his take on the Kipenator's latest mock draft. When the hair speaks, you listen.
Don't be one of those "nervous nellies." Be a pro like Bernie. Bradford, 2010.
Will at Ramsherd takes us on a journey through the dumpsters of the NFL. Can you find another Danny Amendola?
Want to take a chance on another quarterback? Why go Jimmy Clausen when you can go Brady Quinn. A.J could use some company...

Enjoy Thursday!

[Note by VanRam, 03/11/10 7:11 AM EST ] Just thought I'd pop in with new details about Fells' contract. Last night, it was believed to be a $1.5 million deal, causing many of us to ask why the Rams didn't just tender the RFA an offer in the first place. Turns out, Fells' contract is for $770K and another $770K in incentives.

Rams bring back Fells

2010-03-11T03:35:11Z

More photos » Duane Burleson - AP

More fake field goals please.

Browse more photos »

Tight end Daniel Fells enters the offseason as the St. Louis Rams starting TE, after the free agent accepted the Rams contract offer. The talking paper was reported to be a $1.5 million, one-year deal.

The Rams needed a tight end after the Randy McMichael became the last of the heaviest Scott Linehan Era free agents to be unburdened by the team. Fells has been a useful presence in the lineup since joining the Rams during the 2008 season.

While I think there's some logic, informed gambling really, behind the decision to quote/unquote lowball Oshiomogho Atogwe (preview for a post tomorrow), I did not understand the decision to let Fells walk. The second round tender for a RFA was $1.6 million. Maybe they just wanted to see what the market value was before giving Fells a deal on the higher-end of the range they were prepared to go to with a contract offer. It sounds kind of like a dick move, but it makes sense from a business standpoint. I think Fells is a good player with some potential, but I don't think he's so good that the Rams failed to consider that they could probably find someone similar in free agency or a practice squad, where Fells himself came from. Cautiousness about his injury may have added motivation.

New mock from Kiper & McShay (Insider only)

2010-03-11T01:01:53Z

New mock from Kiper & McShay (Insider only)

ESPN's draft braintrust dropped a side-by-side mock. Summary: the Bradford train has left the station.

Wonderlicin' Good!

2010-03-10T22:30:04Z

Wonderlicin' Good!

From Rotoworld:
Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford reportedly scored an impressive 36 on the Wonderlic Test. For comparison, Matt Ryan scored a 32 in 2008. Florida QB Tim Tebow had a 22 the 50-question test, and was outdone by both Colt McCoy of Texas (25) and Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen (23). None of the scores are close to the red-flag range. Bradford's might have helped his draft stock slightly.

TE Tony Scheffler will skip Denver's offseason conditioning program

2010-03-10T16:22:12Z

TE Tony Scheffler will skip Denver's offseason conditioning program

That's a pretty good sign that he's still operating under the belief that he'll be traded. Hopefully, the Rams are in the mix.

Players to watch at college pro days

2010-03-10T16:19:14Z

More photos » Michael Conroy - AP

Southern California's Everson Griffen.

Browse more photos »

If you're not reading Rob Rang's draft blog over at CBS Sports, you're missing out on some real insight...and free of the aura of ridiculousness usually surrounding the ESPN draftniks. Anyway, this morning Rang takes a look at the upcoming schedule of college Pro Days and identifies key players who'll be on display and answering questions. What about some of the St. Louis Rams potential draft picks?

There's no bigger date on the pre-draft calendar than March 25, when Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford works out with the intention of solidifying his name in the conversation for first overall pick. The draft's other top QB, Notre Dame's spikey-haired Jimmy Clausen, works out on April 9 in South Bend. Ok, so about some other names of note...

TST readers may noticed plenty of conversation lately about the Rams need at tight end. One of the biggest names in the draft at that position, Arizona's Ron Gronkowski will fill in the gaps from his missed 2009 season on March 27.

Some of the draft's other quarterbacks will be looking to boost their draft stock in the coming weeks as well. Today, Oklahoma State QB Zac Robinson will be looking to build on a strong combine performance. The biggest knock on Robinson, as I see it, is his accuracy, as in is he accurate enough down the field to find success in the NFL.

Central Michigan's Dan LeFevour is banking on his March 24 workout to rebuild his value after it took a hit from his decision not to throw at the Combine. Colt McCoy will throw with the other Texas prospects in Austin on March 31.

Another Texas player I'm interested in is DT Lamarr Houston, who is currently projected as a 2nd or 3rd round pick. His 4.85 time in the 40 at the Combine was decidedly un-defensive tackle like.

USC also hold their Pro Day on March 31. Plenty of names to keep an eye on here, but I'm most anxious to see how DE Everson Griffen's draft stock fares after getting a boost at the Combine. Could Griffen be available for the Rams at #33?

Vick thinks he can be a impact player in St. Louis (updated)

2010-03-10T12:32:03Z

More photos » Matt Rourke - AP

This is not Michael Vick.

Browse more photos »

If you're wanting more fodder for speculation on the St. Louis Rams quarterback front, here's some fuel for the fire.

Michael Vick told local sports talk radio ESPN 101 that he could have a real impact in St. Louis, going so far as to reach out to GM Billy Devaney. Check it out:

I think I can be the difference maker on any team, especially a team like the St. Louis Rams, who need a lot of help and will get it based on their ownership and the general manager (Billy Devaney) they have who is a great guy and I know from Atlanta.

All that probably means bupkis right now. Word is the Eagles are asking for a second round pick, a hefty price tag when you've got the first pick of the second round.

It still seems unlikely that the Rams would make a trade for Vick, unless they're actively collecting former Eagles backup QBs.

UPDATE: And we've got more drama on the Eagles QB situation as it relates to the Rams and the NFC West.

Sal Paolantonio (what a great war movie name: "Paolantonio, let's take this hill!") of ESPN was on a sports talk radio program in Philadelphia and said that interest in Michael Vick has "dried up." He mentioned the Rams specifically, along with the Bills.

And on the larger NFC West, the Seahawks have reportedly been making frequent contact with the Eagles about the possibility of trading for either Donovan McNabb or Kevin Kolb, with intimation from Paolantonion that new head coach Pete Carroll wants to win now. Such a strategy seems a little precarious, Scott Linehan inherited an aging team operating under the same mentality and look how that turned out.

The Follies of Free Agency

2010-03-09T23:13:31Z

More photos » Tom Gannam - AP

Are we done yet?

Browse more photos »

I don't know what you think, but in my eyes, it has been a rough week since free agency started for the Rams.

First of all, we learned that the Rams decided to semi-tender O.J. Atogwe. We haven't heard much news from that story recently, but if it turns out their isn't much interest for him, the Rams either have to get a long-term deal done (doesn't seem that likely, considering they've only had two years to do it) or they will keep him for another year before he probably jumps ship. Any loyalty bonus the Rams might have had was probably lost when reports came in that the Rams were looking at Brodney Pool.

Second, we have the lack of activity in the free agency. The Rams have been thought to be under a guise of "don't spend any of the new guy's money." I'm sure the Rams new owner is well aware about the costs of buying a football team and while I wouldn't expect the Rams to spend like it's going out of style, Mr. Khan probably wouldn't mind if they found somebody who wasn't drafted below the 6th round. I also find it funny to think that many think of Kyle Boller 2.0 as a "veteran of the offensive system," the Rams employ when the OC only has one year of experience. It's obvious Pat Shurmur (among other coaches) knows A.J, and A.J. can probably fill in the holes in his playbook memory quickly, but they aren't the same.

Fred Robbins seems like a good rotation tackle and a decent pickup. But the Rams might lose both James Hall and Leonard Little to the Saints (or another team, such as the Panthers). They'd hope to bring him back, but they've said the same thing about Atogwe and that situation has already made many scratch their heads.

Besides the two pickups, the Rams have been relatively silent. One thing I've thought about quite a bit is what would have happened if Darren Sproles hit the market. If he had come for a visit, I highly suspect the Rams wouldn't have let him leave without at least seeing a contract. But the Rams have let players that could have helped them slip away. There is no sense in throwing money away (Nate Burleson, Julius Peppers, Dunta Robinson). But players like Aaron Kampman (who signed a four year, 26 million dollar deal with 11 million guaranteed) could really help the Rams out.

I think the problem (at least with me) is that I'm hoping the Rams hit a home run in free agency. You don't need to snag Julius Peppers for a bajillion dollars a year, but retain the players who should be retained (Daniel Fells- hello?) and try and add one or two worthwhile players in free agency (Robbins could fit the bill here, but the Rams need more then just him).

It's all well and good to build through the draft; that how the good teams do it. But it isn't a sin to find help through trades and free agents. You don't need the scorched-Earth-Scott-Linehan approach to free agency to be successful.

Above all, make it count. If this draft doesn't pan out, it's game over for the coaching staff.

Poll

How have the Rams fared in the first round of free agency?

Random Ramsdom, 3/9: Fells reuniting with the Rams?

2010-03-09T22:27:02Z

More photos » Tom Gannam - AP

6 months ago: St. Louis Rams tight end Daniel Fells looks up with the ball after crossing into the end zone with a 6-yard pass for a touchdown, as Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Turk McBride and linebacker Monty Beisel (52) defend during the second quarter of a preseason NFL football game Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)

Browse more photos »

GM Billy Devaney and head coach Steve Spagnuolo were in Oklahoma today for OU's Pro Day. Mostly they were there to talk to DT Gerald McCoy, and talk is about all they could do because McCoy and the other three big-time prospects at OU didn't go through the full workouts. There was really no need for them to. McCoy did participate in "some drill work," impressing those on hand.

Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News is a well-respected NFL talking head and a draft guy. Here's his blog post making his case for who the Rams should select with the first pick in the draft.

There's drama surrounding Oklahoma State's Pro Day. And how about Dez Bryant's timing for picking a day to hold his private workout the same day Sam Bradford will hold his show just down the road.

A look at offensive scoring and overall success from Matt McGuire at Walter Football.

Not so fast, Daniel Fells. Late breaking word is that the Rams and Fells may find a way to reunite. From the PD:

Fells could make up his mind as early as Wednesday, according to league sources. Those familiar with the negotiations say Fells, in fact, may now be leaning toward the Rams because of his time spent with the program and familiarity with the coaches.

And there you have it.

Looking at the first ten picks of the draft

2010-03-09T17:18:26Z

More photos » Sue Ogrocki - AP

Two years in a row for an OT to get drafted second overall?

Browse more photos »

How about a mock draft to give you a much needed break from the dizzying highs and terrifying lows of free agency? Since most mock drafts are only covering the first round and most seem to have gelled around the notion that Sam Bradford will be the St. Louis Rams selection with the first overall pick, I thought we might take a look at the first ten picks and any other red flags, big issues emerging about the draft. Today, let's take Rotoworld's mock draft.

1. Rams - Sam Bradford: We'll have plenty more to say about this down the road. For now, it looks like Adam Schefter's contention (made without talking to the Rams) has pretty much established how pundits are viewing that pick. Keep March 25 circled on your calendar.

2. Lions - OT Russell Okung - This might have been a surprise at one time, but with the Corey Williams trade this pick makes more sense. Think back to the Rams lone win last season and you can see what a glaring need OT is for Detroit. The Rams sacked Matt Stafford twice, the Rams.

3. Bucs - DT Ndamukong Suh - Is there anybody happier about the possibility of the Rams picking a QB first overall than the Bucs? The only thing that sweetens the deal is the potential for the Lions to go with Okung at #2.

4. Redskins - DT Gerald McCoy - If the draft shakes out this way, then McCoy is a real possibility here. However, do you draft a 3-4 DE with the fourth overall pick? Depending on what happens between now and April 22, I'd still look for Washington to draft Clausen or an OT (if one can make the case to be drafted here). Will McCoy continue to hold his draft value until April 22? This spot could be a prime candidate for trade.

5. Chiefs - WR Dez Bryant - If Eric Berry is on the board, that would be the pick, I think. C.J. Spiller could also get picked here.

6. Seahawks - QB Jimmy Clausen - If you buy the Pete Carroll, Clausen stories this would be the pick. It makes even more sense with Seneca Wallace gone now too.

7. Browns - S Eric Berry - This is a smart pick if Berry's on the board still. I think that he will not be, so I think it's more likely that the Browns go with CB Joe Haden or DE Derrick Morgan.

8. Raiders - OT Bruce Campbell - This makes sense purely for the Al Davis workout warrior theory.

9. Bills - OT Trent Williams - Matches the need test, but will other OTs like Bryan Bulage or Anthony Davis get consideration?

10. Jaguars - DE Jason Pierre-Paul - This guy could be the draft's biggest bust or a Pro Bowler. His "measurables" will put him in consideration for Oakland. The Jags could go with Derrick Morgan or Dez Bryant here too, depending on how it shakes out. Texas S Earl Thomas might be a fit too. To me, this is another spot that's ripe for trade.

I keep noticing in the mock draft's lately that Idaho OG Mike Iupati is falling out of the first round, and C/G Maurkice Pouncey is moving up. Curious. Iupati has had major hype, and he has talent to be sure. If he falls out of the first round, the Rams would certainly have to consider him with their first pick of the second round.

This draft is harder to predict than most because there's a concentration of talent worthy of late first round picks in most years that is extremely hard to separate this year.