[RAMFANRAIDERHATER]

Just thought I'd add my two-cents, if I may...

Personally, I'm pretty satisfied with the off-season direction and new acquisitions of the Rams. I think they've addressed problems fairly well without giving up the bank. I'd much rather see the Rams cautiously spend for FA's then do what a team like the Raiders are doing. Sure, the Raiders are giving their fans the appearance of trying to fix things, but in reality, how many more games will they win next year after the spending spree they've been on? One? Two? ...maybe. The harsh reality is, that kind of thinking and spending is going to set them back another 3-4 seasons. Giving away draft picks and overpaying mediocre players is just plain stupid. There's only one or two impact players a year in free agency, and thinking the Rams are going to attract any of them is foolish.

A single FA or two will not turn a team around, but the Rams have managed to fill openings and provide much needed depth in certain areas. They lost a great kicker in Wilkins (throwing out last year) and replaced him with a player of equal, or better talent. The Rams suffered through injuries to the O-line last season. so they brought in a talented guard in Bell and resigned some guys for added depth. They lost a 35 year-old Bruce because he demanded more money then his current worth. The Rams answered with a 29 year-old Caldwell, who should be every bit as productive as Ike would have been, and probably more, given his age. Was it a blockbuster acquisition? Absolutely not. But it's at least an insurance policy for the upcoming draft. I'd be surprised if the Rams didn't draft a WR next month, and although Championships are built on good drafts, they're never a sure thing. With the change in coaching, and with the new acquisitions and healthy return of last years injured starters, the Rams should be much improved without ANY help from the draft. How many wins that translates to, is anybody's guess.

So, I'm satisfied with the offseason, to date. I'll hold final judgment until the draft is over and all the pieces are in place. ...and I'm looking forward to this draft more than any draft I can remember. But as far as I'm concerned, Free Agency is a way to add depth and plug up holes, and the Rams have done that.