[x] closeYour Web Browser is not fully supported by this site (and many others). Please download and install one of the following: Firefox 3.5; Safari 4; Google Chrome; Internet Explorer 8

Jim Thomas Live

Rams writer Jim Thomas goes one-on-one with readers at 1 p.m. Tuesday in a live chat.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 01:00 PM CST

comments & answers

Justin: JT, what is the timetable for a new gm to be in place?
Jim Thomas: I would say maybe by the end of next week. THere are still interviews taking place this week.
nick49: Hey Jim:
1) Do you see any Rams players as cap-casualties?
Jason Brown
Jason Smith
Ron Bartell
2)What postions can you see the Rams targeting in Free Agency
3)Have we named a qb coach or special teams coach yet?

Thank you
Jim Thomas: 1.) I would say Brown and Smith are the most vulnerable. Remember, Bartell has been cleared to play from his neck injury, and unlike a Peyton Manning he didn't undergo neck surgery.
2.) Well, we all know the obvious need positions. And there are plenty. Interior offensive and defensive lines, wide receiver, outside linebacker, backup running back, perhaps backup quarterback.
3.) Nothing on QB coach; looks like John Fassel (formerly Oakland) for special teams.
Justin: Jt, who all has been offically hired for fisher's and what spots are left to be filled if any?
Jim Thomas: The only official hires have been offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, assistant head coach Dave McGinnis.
But I believe other hires (none of which have been announced) include offensive line coach Paul Boudreau, defensive line coach Mike Waufle, Blake Williams (looks like linebackers), Rob Boras tight ends, and John Fassel special teams.
h2o_jd55: Hey JT, thanks for the chats. I am curious, who would the Rams have offered the head coaching job if Fisher would have said no? Thanks
Jim Thomas: I think Rob Chudzinsk (Carolina) would have been a strong candidate, and yes, the Rams were talking to Rutgers coach Greg Schiano who ended up taking the Tampa Bay job.
Harold: Hi Jim,

I really like Mohamed Sanu if the Rams trade down and miss out on Blackmon. This guy has some burst like Blackmon does and not afraid to lay out someone. Sorry, but I like him over Kendall Wright and Michael Floyd. What do you think of him?
Jim Thomas: I watched Sanu on TV when Rutgers played Army, and Sanu was impressive. He doesn't have the top-end speed that you'd like, and I think at this time, he projects as a late first-round or second round guy.