The Rams "anticipate a season-ticket base of about 40,000 to erode" by more than 10% this season, and that "estimate might prove to be conservative," according to Joe Strauss of the ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH. Strauss: "You want evidence of the poor renewal rate? The club put single-game tickets on sale this month rather than its traditional August date after the deadline for season-ticket renewals has passed." Rams COO & Exec VP/Football Operations Kevin Demoff said, "The best solution as we go through the process on a daily basis has been to get to the core of what the organization should always be about -- building a better football team and providing the resources to go compete in the NFC West." Demoff: "Hopefully, over the long term, that’s what gets folks excited about coming to the Edward Jones Dome this fall. ... I think this team will generate buzz in August, September and October. That’s the meaningful buzz we need." Meanwhile, a significant number of Rams employees last week were told that many on the business side "would not be asked to accompany the team" if it moves to L.A., as marketing and sales positions "would go to those more familiar with the new territory." Two prominent Rams sales and marketing execs "have accepted jobs" with the Packers and Buccaneers since last season. But Demoff explained the moves as a "promotion and a return to a familiar clime." He said, "As an organization you understand the unique challenges this season has brought, both to the organization and to the fan base." Strauss: "Welcome to the summer of buzz kill, when a potential lame-duck NFL franchise realizes many will judge every business or on-field move against a backdrop of ingrained disgust" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 5/11).
