Franchise Mode Tips?

[LegendRyder]

Hey guys, I try to play as realistically as I can in game, and in Franchise mode, it's just that I'm not very successful in Franchise. I don't go after big free agents and stuff unrealistically or anything, but I'm not very good at cap management. Thus, after the first year or two, my team is not very good. Also, how do you successfully draft without using rookie editing? Please, can anybody give some general franchise mode tips and scouting tips? Thanks.

[LegendRyder]

I should add, I intend on continuing the realistic style of play. So please keep your tips realistic. Also, I want to know how to build a team. Where to start, etc, etc.