Rams General Manager Billy Devaney joined us to answer your questions in a live chat Friday. Read below to see his responses.
Anthony Fiato, Binghamton, NY 02:57 PM ET
Many teams in the NFL have adapted to a two running back system. Do you feel that the Rams should limit the amount of big hits on Steven Jackson by adding a complimentary back?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Even with teams that use two running backs, there's always a primary back whether you call him a fullback or another halfback, there's one predominant ball carrier. In our case, that's Steven Jackson and we feel it's best to have a fullback in front of him.
Ruben , Highland, Ca 02:59 PM ET
Billy, Thanks for taking my questions. As a GM for a rebuilding team, are all current players(that don't significantly hurt the Cap) available as trade options, as we close in on the trading dealine? Do you believe you have enough leaders or potential leaders on this current roster to take a "risk" on a player that may have "character" concerns, going into next years FA & draft?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I think it's safe to say we don't have many untouchable type players on our roster. That said, we've put in a lot of time and effort to begin to assemble a core group of players we want to be here a long time rather than sending them out. It always depends on the degree of risk but we do have the type of players here where we would feel comfortable taking a risk on someone.
Dennis R, Connecticut 03:01 PM ET
Mr. Devaney, I know building a team from the ground up takes time. As a long (very long) time Ram fan I can bite the bullet and suffer through a rebuilding year. However, I do have one question, the teams NEEDS WR's there are choices out there. I know you want players with "character", but if there are decent WR's Matt Jones, Harrison, etc. out there WHY NOT give them a shot? These young receivers can learn a ton from and older veteran like Harrison. So even if it's for the short term grab them. With no threats at WR every team will be stacking the line taking away your only great player in Jackson.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
We realize we are thing at receiver right now but there's a reason why guys like Harrison are still out there. We are not the only team looking for receivers. P.S. Looking forward to seeing my good friend Donnie Brown in a couple of weeks.
michael barttelbort, swansea 03:03 PM ET
Pro Football has been my life--I listen, read and watch it yearlong-it is painful to see a team struggle like the Rams do--No fault of your own this team has made so many bad choices since 2000--what do you say to a diehard fan--that doesnt see the bottom till about the middle of next year
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
OMG, I'll never make it until the middle of next year! Even though we are 0-4, everyone here thinks we are a lot closer to being a good team. Hang in there, it won't take as long as you think.
Daniel B, Toronto, Ontario 03:05 PM ET
Hey Billy, When do you start evaluating which positions you can address in free agency and those you can target with the draft? I know this team has many needs, so this may be tough to gage, but for example would a position like WR be best to try and upgrade through free agency or the draft?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
As we sit here now, everyone recognizes where we need the most help. But we have a lot of football left this season and things can change.
Jason C., Maple Shade 03:06 PM ET
What do you think of the trend of QBs coming out of college ready to play in the NFL immedately is one that will continue in the future or where they "flukes" of player development ?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
The college passing game has become so sophisticated over the years it's made the transition to the pro game easier for some of these guys. Also, these have been really talented quarterbacks the past few years.
DBCOUVER, Vancouver WA 03:07 PM ET
I know the generic answer to this question is about always looking for opportunities to maximize our draft pick values, etc. How about getting serious about trading down for multiple picks in the draft, and taking advantage of what a draft has to offer by picking the best player available? Our teams needs are so extensive, how can we justify leaving value on the table? Also, if offered the right price, (lets be realistic), is Steven Jackson tradable?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
The thing that drives you is always what's best for your team in any decision that you make. On draft day if someone offers you a blockbuster deal for your pick or any players, what drives you is what's best for your team. If it means trading down or trading a player, if it's what is best for the team then you do it.
Peter Dunbar, Glover VT 03:10 PM ET
Billy, Can you talk about why the decision was made to start Jason Smith at RT instead of his natural position of LT? Barron is also very comfortable at RT so I'm curious what the thought process was here. Many thanks in advance... and great job on getting Spags :-) Peter Dunbar
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
The thought process was left tackle is a more difficult position to play and for the time being we believe that Alex Barron at this point in his career is a better left tackle than Jason. There's no doubt in our mind that Jason is our left tackle of the future.
Curt, N. California 03:12 PM ET
Dear Mr. Devaney, Which strategy do you prefer: 1) Re-stocking the team with talent then drafting that franchise QB, or 2)drafting that franchise Qb, then adding talent around him?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
It depends on who the quarterback is. If you are in position to get a quarterback that you feel you can win a Super Bowl with, you have got to grab him. The other line of thinking is you can't reach for a guy at that position if you aren't sure he is the guy to lead you.
Josh, Sydney 03:13 PM ET
Hi Billy, I think it's safe to say the Rams will have more than a bit of trouble making the playoffs this season. So what would aspect/position would you most like to see improve by the end of the season?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I want to see us start playing smarter, less penalties, turnovers, etc. Also, we need to be consistent in all three phases.
Daniel Mascher, Portland Or. 03:14 PM ET
Billy, I've been a rams fan for 20 yrs and being a Blazers fan I've experienced a team rebuild and understand it takes time to break down, weed out and rebuild and I do see improvement in the defense, but the offense is horrible. I attended the Rams vs seahawks and it was very painfull to watch us get turnover's and not do anything with them. Here's my questions; is this the most challenging position you have had to be in, and do you get frustrated with fans unrealistic expectations? I still support you guys, but please draft a QB with the first and a WR in the 2nd this draft. Thanks for the time.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Call me crazy but I don't feel like this is a very difficult situation I'm in. I say this because of the people that I'm around. There's no doubt we have the right structure in place. Now it's just a matter of time of filling in the pieces. We are definitely headed in the right direction.
Joe, New Zealand 03:17 PM ET
It is clear that the Rams are rebuilding and I like the youth approach. 1. Do you envisioned the rebuilding as a 3 yr, 4 yr or 5 yr project? 2. By that time the Rams will need a younger QB, when do you believe is the year to go for a new QB, 2010 or 2011? Thanks and keep moving forward.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Hell no, it can't be three years or more. Otherwise, you will have somebody else here answering these questions.
OC Ram Fan 714, Irvine, CA 03:18 PM ET
I've heard that you're an avid runner. How many miles a day do you need to run to burn off the aggravation this season is causing?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Even your running suffers when you go through a stretch like this. But I expect my running to pick up as the season goes on and as the team starts playing better.
Bret J McDaniel, Globe, Az 03:20 PM ET
I Am A Huge Rams Fan. These last few seasons though are huge letdowns. I Like What Coach Spags Is Doing For Us Here. We Are A Better Team Than Last Year. My Question Is, What Can We Do To Turn Around Our Second Half Performance? It Seems To Me, That That Is Where We Are Really Getting Beat.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
It goes back to being consistent for four quarters. We have been good in spurts. We have been good in different phases at different times. We just have to play as a team for four solid quarters.
chris Garcia, orange County CA 03:21 PM ET
Billy, I like your offseason aquisitions, Laurent Robinson was a great pick up, I feel he will be a staple for our offense next year. My question is, did you ever play football? What do you look for in a player?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Laurent's surgery went well. He will be 100 percent next year. I played football in college and what I look for in a player is everything I wasn't: good.
Rob Thompson, Maryland Heights 03:22 PM ET
You seem to have an eye for hidden gems like Laurent Robinson and Daniel Fells. What did you see in them when they were under the radar on other teams that made you know that they could succeed in this league and on this team? They are two guys that really seem to have a lot of potential and I'm excited to watch them develop!
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Our department does a good job in evaluating young players in the NFL. They may slip through the cracks by being in the wrong place or system at the wrong time but that doesn't mean they don't have the talent to play in the NFL.
Dave, Saint Louis 03:25 PM ET
Are we so far up againts the cap that we haft to bring WR in off the practice squad rather than resign Curry who had a good preseason? Were huting bad at WR.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I may have something to report in the very near future.
Frankie Mustari, Chicago, IL 03:28 PM ET
Billy, where do you see this team at this time next year?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
In St. Louis. No, seriously. We'll be in a much better position salary cap wise if we can have another successful free agency period and a solid draft, we'll be in significantly better shape.
Brian, Orange County 03:30 PM ET
I have read about how you started as an intern and worked your way to the top of your profession. Do you think that experience has led to you having more desire in your job?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I don't know. I have always had a burning desire to win football games and win championships. That's never going to change.
Eric Lizbinski, Drums, Pa 03:31 PM ET
Rob Thompson brought up the point of having an eye for hidden gems. Do you think Keith Null is a player who can have an impact on the team in the next two or three years?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
There are some very positive signs regarding Null. However, he is a long way from being a starter but we like what we see so far.
Bill Starnes, Collinsville, IL 03:32 PM ET
The team has made significant investments in the offensive line, but can't protect the quarterback. Did the team buy Citibank stock, or are the players underperforming?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
When the quarterback gets hit or sacked, it's not necessarily the offensive line that is at fault. It could be on the quarterback, it could be on the running back, it could be on a wideout. Our offensive line pass protection wise has played at a winning level.
John P. Moore, Allentown, PA 03:34 PM ET
Hi Billy: What I look for in a player is everything I understand you were as an athlete...Smart, tough, physical, a "grinder", and hates losing with a passion! Someone who plays with a lot of heart and passion which is sadly missing in professional sports these days. Let's get a damn "W"!!!! GO RAMS!
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Thanks for the support, John. Stay well.
Brian, Orange County 03:35 PM ET
As a student going through graduate school for Sport Management in an area with no NFL teams, do you have any advice how to get any experience to possibly work in the NFL one day?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Volunteer as much as you can in any professional sports team or league. Don't even worry about getting paid at first, you need to get your foot in the door and then just grind.
Tom Johnson, Virginia Beach, Va. 03:39 PM ET
Billy, with a much improved defense this year and...certainly a top five pick oin the draft, is QB the top shelf interest in 2010?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
We have a long way to go before we decide what our top needs are. We still have three quarters of the season to help us make that evaluation.
Edgar Sistrunk, Gary, Indiana 03:40 PM ET
Thanks for answering our questions. Do college scouts look for certain postions at this time of year?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Our scouts aren't sure what our needs will be so they need to evaluate every position. There are some positions that we may feel strong at and won't use a top pick for that position. But even those players need to be evaluated and graded.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Thanks for all of the questions. We all appreciate your passion, we feel your frustration and we just ask you to hang in as long as you can.
Anthony Fiato, Binghamton, NY 02:57 PM ET
Many teams in the NFL have adapted to a two running back system. Do you feel that the Rams should limit the amount of big hits on Steven Jackson by adding a complimentary back?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Even with teams that use two running backs, there's always a primary back whether you call him a fullback or another halfback, there's one predominant ball carrier. In our case, that's Steven Jackson and we feel it's best to have a fullback in front of him.
Ruben , Highland, Ca 02:59 PM ET
Billy, Thanks for taking my questions. As a GM for a rebuilding team, are all current players(that don't significantly hurt the Cap) available as trade options, as we close in on the trading dealine? Do you believe you have enough leaders or potential leaders on this current roster to take a "risk" on a player that may have "character" concerns, going into next years FA & draft?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I think it's safe to say we don't have many untouchable type players on our roster. That said, we've put in a lot of time and effort to begin to assemble a core group of players we want to be here a long time rather than sending them out. It always depends on the degree of risk but we do have the type of players here where we would feel comfortable taking a risk on someone.
Dennis R, Connecticut 03:01 PM ET
Mr. Devaney, I know building a team from the ground up takes time. As a long (very long) time Ram fan I can bite the bullet and suffer through a rebuilding year. However, I do have one question, the teams NEEDS WR's there are choices out there. I know you want players with "character", but if there are decent WR's Matt Jones, Harrison, etc. out there WHY NOT give them a shot? These young receivers can learn a ton from and older veteran like Harrison. So even if it's for the short term grab them. With no threats at WR every team will be stacking the line taking away your only great player in Jackson.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
We realize we are thing at receiver right now but there's a reason why guys like Harrison are still out there. We are not the only team looking for receivers. P.S. Looking forward to seeing my good friend Donnie Brown in a couple of weeks.
michael barttelbort, swansea 03:03 PM ET
Pro Football has been my life--I listen, read and watch it yearlong-it is painful to see a team struggle like the Rams do--No fault of your own this team has made so many bad choices since 2000--what do you say to a diehard fan--that doesnt see the bottom till about the middle of next year
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
OMG, I'll never make it until the middle of next year! Even though we are 0-4, everyone here thinks we are a lot closer to being a good team. Hang in there, it won't take as long as you think.
Daniel B, Toronto, Ontario 03:05 PM ET
Hey Billy, When do you start evaluating which positions you can address in free agency and those you can target with the draft? I know this team has many needs, so this may be tough to gage, but for example would a position like WR be best to try and upgrade through free agency or the draft?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
As we sit here now, everyone recognizes where we need the most help. But we have a lot of football left this season and things can change.
Jason C., Maple Shade 03:06 PM ET
What do you think of the trend of QBs coming out of college ready to play in the NFL immedately is one that will continue in the future or where they "flukes" of player development ?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
The college passing game has become so sophisticated over the years it's made the transition to the pro game easier for some of these guys. Also, these have been really talented quarterbacks the past few years.
DBCOUVER, Vancouver WA 03:07 PM ET
I know the generic answer to this question is about always looking for opportunities to maximize our draft pick values, etc. How about getting serious about trading down for multiple picks in the draft, and taking advantage of what a draft has to offer by picking the best player available? Our teams needs are so extensive, how can we justify leaving value on the table? Also, if offered the right price, (lets be realistic), is Steven Jackson tradable?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
The thing that drives you is always what's best for your team in any decision that you make. On draft day if someone offers you a blockbuster deal for your pick or any players, what drives you is what's best for your team. If it means trading down or trading a player, if it's what is best for the team then you do it.
Peter Dunbar, Glover VT 03:10 PM ET
Billy, Can you talk about why the decision was made to start Jason Smith at RT instead of his natural position of LT? Barron is also very comfortable at RT so I'm curious what the thought process was here. Many thanks in advance... and great job on getting Spags :-) Peter Dunbar
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
The thought process was left tackle is a more difficult position to play and for the time being we believe that Alex Barron at this point in his career is a better left tackle than Jason. There's no doubt in our mind that Jason is our left tackle of the future.
Curt, N. California 03:12 PM ET
Dear Mr. Devaney, Which strategy do you prefer: 1) Re-stocking the team with talent then drafting that franchise QB, or 2)drafting that franchise Qb, then adding talent around him?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
It depends on who the quarterback is. If you are in position to get a quarterback that you feel you can win a Super Bowl with, you have got to grab him. The other line of thinking is you can't reach for a guy at that position if you aren't sure he is the guy to lead you.
Josh, Sydney 03:13 PM ET
Hi Billy, I think it's safe to say the Rams will have more than a bit of trouble making the playoffs this season. So what would aspect/position would you most like to see improve by the end of the season?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I want to see us start playing smarter, less penalties, turnovers, etc. Also, we need to be consistent in all three phases.
Daniel Mascher, Portland Or. 03:14 PM ET
Billy, I've been a rams fan for 20 yrs and being a Blazers fan I've experienced a team rebuild and understand it takes time to break down, weed out and rebuild and I do see improvement in the defense, but the offense is horrible. I attended the Rams vs seahawks and it was very painfull to watch us get turnover's and not do anything with them. Here's my questions; is this the most challenging position you have had to be in, and do you get frustrated with fans unrealistic expectations? I still support you guys, but please draft a QB with the first and a WR in the 2nd this draft. Thanks for the time.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Call me crazy but I don't feel like this is a very difficult situation I'm in. I say this because of the people that I'm around. There's no doubt we have the right structure in place. Now it's just a matter of time of filling in the pieces. We are definitely headed in the right direction.
Joe, New Zealand 03:17 PM ET
It is clear that the Rams are rebuilding and I like the youth approach. 1. Do you envisioned the rebuilding as a 3 yr, 4 yr or 5 yr project? 2. By that time the Rams will need a younger QB, when do you believe is the year to go for a new QB, 2010 or 2011? Thanks and keep moving forward.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Hell no, it can't be three years or more. Otherwise, you will have somebody else here answering these questions.
OC Ram Fan 714, Irvine, CA 03:18 PM ET
I've heard that you're an avid runner. How many miles a day do you need to run to burn off the aggravation this season is causing?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Even your running suffers when you go through a stretch like this. But I expect my running to pick up as the season goes on and as the team starts playing better.
Bret J McDaniel, Globe, Az 03:20 PM ET
I Am A Huge Rams Fan. These last few seasons though are huge letdowns. I Like What Coach Spags Is Doing For Us Here. We Are A Better Team Than Last Year. My Question Is, What Can We Do To Turn Around Our Second Half Performance? It Seems To Me, That That Is Where We Are Really Getting Beat.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
It goes back to being consistent for four quarters. We have been good in spurts. We have been good in different phases at different times. We just have to play as a team for four solid quarters.
chris Garcia, orange County CA 03:21 PM ET
Billy, I like your offseason aquisitions, Laurent Robinson was a great pick up, I feel he will be a staple for our offense next year. My question is, did you ever play football? What do you look for in a player?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Laurent's surgery went well. He will be 100 percent next year. I played football in college and what I look for in a player is everything I wasn't: good.
Rob Thompson, Maryland Heights 03:22 PM ET
You seem to have an eye for hidden gems like Laurent Robinson and Daniel Fells. What did you see in them when they were under the radar on other teams that made you know that they could succeed in this league and on this team? They are two guys that really seem to have a lot of potential and I'm excited to watch them develop!
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Our department does a good job in evaluating young players in the NFL. They may slip through the cracks by being in the wrong place or system at the wrong time but that doesn't mean they don't have the talent to play in the NFL.
Dave, Saint Louis 03:25 PM ET
Are we so far up againts the cap that we haft to bring WR in off the practice squad rather than resign Curry who had a good preseason? Were huting bad at WR.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I may have something to report in the very near future.
Frankie Mustari, Chicago, IL 03:28 PM ET
Billy, where do you see this team at this time next year?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
In St. Louis. No, seriously. We'll be in a much better position salary cap wise if we can have another successful free agency period and a solid draft, we'll be in significantly better shape.
Brian, Orange County 03:30 PM ET
I have read about how you started as an intern and worked your way to the top of your profession. Do you think that experience has led to you having more desire in your job?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
I don't know. I have always had a burning desire to win football games and win championships. That's never going to change.
Eric Lizbinski, Drums, Pa 03:31 PM ET
Rob Thompson brought up the point of having an eye for hidden gems. Do you think Keith Null is a player who can have an impact on the team in the next two or three years?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
There are some very positive signs regarding Null. However, he is a long way from being a starter but we like what we see so far.
Bill Starnes, Collinsville, IL 03:32 PM ET
The team has made significant investments in the offensive line, but can't protect the quarterback. Did the team buy Citibank stock, or are the players underperforming?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
When the quarterback gets hit or sacked, it's not necessarily the offensive line that is at fault. It could be on the quarterback, it could be on the running back, it could be on a wideout. Our offensive line pass protection wise has played at a winning level.
John P. Moore, Allentown, PA 03:34 PM ET
Hi Billy: What I look for in a player is everything I understand you were as an athlete...Smart, tough, physical, a "grinder", and hates losing with a passion! Someone who plays with a lot of heart and passion which is sadly missing in professional sports these days. Let's get a damn "W"!!!! GO RAMS!
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Thanks for the support, John. Stay well.
Brian, Orange County 03:35 PM ET
As a student going through graduate school for Sport Management in an area with no NFL teams, do you have any advice how to get any experience to possibly work in the NFL one day?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Volunteer as much as you can in any professional sports team or league. Don't even worry about getting paid at first, you need to get your foot in the door and then just grind.
Tom Johnson, Virginia Beach, Va. 03:39 PM ET
Billy, with a much improved defense this year and...certainly a top five pick oin the draft, is QB the top shelf interest in 2010?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
We have a long way to go before we decide what our top needs are. We still have three quarters of the season to help us make that evaluation.
Edgar Sistrunk, Gary, Indiana 03:40 PM ET
Thanks for answering our questions. Do college scouts look for certain postions at this time of year?
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Our scouts aren't sure what our needs will be so they need to evaluate every position. There are some positions that we may feel strong at and won't use a top pick for that position. But even those players need to be evaluated and graded.
General Manager Billy Devaney, Stlouisrams.com
Thanks for all of the questions. We all appreciate your passion, we feel your frustration and we just ask you to hang in as long as you can.
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