When I think back to the Georgia/Shaw/Martz era (and shudder), the Kroenke/Demoff/Snead/McVay era must be the polar opposite.
Even if they can't work out a deal with OBJ, you can bet that nothing bad will be said by either party; just respect. I love how the Rams keep negotiations quiet and bleeds over to how the players and agents go about it as well. No public laundry airing; just working in a positive way, even if it doesn't work out from a business side.
Money still matters. But the Rams are so smart. They understand WHERE to put the money, and where to scrimp. Or, at least they have an explainable, coherent philosophy about it. Pay money ONLY for proven top flight stars, use top draft picks as poker chips to acquire those guys, and use the lower draft picks to select guys with all the right attributes, but who need time to develop. Then have coaches who are excellent teachers and who can relate to the players in a positive way. No yellers and screamers, or guys who call players names.
They also have a player/management relations philosophy, and it is clear and explainable. Allow the players to be who they are on and off the field; have their own personalities, and be treated like men, and to happily accept the differences. In the locker room, in practice, and in playing games, all focus is for each player to do their jobs the way they have been taught, down to the last tiny detail, no nonsense. They want smart players, with football intelligence, who want to do things the right way. And they have the star leaders to show the way.
Doesn't mean they'll win the Superbowl every year; but like the Steelers and Pats for so many years, you can figure they'll be in the running simply because their organizations are so strong and solid.
Great time to be a Rams fan.
