The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

NFC South


Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Last Season 5-11

Much like Jeff Fisher in Chicago, Coach Tomsula couldn't take a respectable first season and translate it into 2nd year success. Wins in season 3 could be equally elusive now that franchise QB Jameis Winston has left the organisation. Will Patrick is the immediate replacement on the roster, but he is far from a proven commodity. One upside is Braxton Travis should see an increased workload as the runner continues to improve. Mike Evans and Brandon Lafell provide a quality 1-2 punch at receiver and the offensive line is adequate, it is strong on the outside but decreases in quality as you work inwards towards centre. Defensively the team is largely unchanged from last season and that isn't a bad thing. Zach Brown, Andrew Gutierrez, Gerald McCoy and Alterraun Verner should all impress, Lavonte David is still a league leading linebacker. The greatest weakness for Tampa remains at safety and hasn't been addressed. Still, if the QB question can be answered, this is a team that could be on the rise. The addition of another corner high in round 1 should also be of use down the line.

Notable Resignings - WR Mike Evans (franchise tag)
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - QB Jameis Winston (team), CB Bene Benwikere (team)
Draft Pick - CB Parker McDonald


New Orleans Saints - Last Season 7-9

Their #2 seed in the NFC season is now firmly in the rear-view mirror as this Saints roster just put together a 2nd straight 7 win season. Fearing a mediocre trend may be emerging, a number of changes were made as New Orleans look to begin their revolutionary "Super Club" idea on the right footing. Firstly, HC Bryan Gurley was removed, replaced by one of the most harshly treated coaches in the NFL in Mike McCarthy. The overdue retirement of Drew Brees left the Saints with a glaring need at QB but the club managed to sweet talk fellow NFC South free agent Matt Ryan into replacing Brees, weakening rivals Mexico City in the process. The free agents on offence didn't stop there, bringing in the experience of WR Golden Tate and TE Ladarius Green to work with resigned Mark Ingram at RB and Brandin Cooks. RG Connor Graham anchors a solid offensive line that should help the Saints put up points. SS Derron Scott is entering his 4th year in the league and is one half of a great safety pair with Jarius Byrd. OLB Jason McKinney is another recent draftee who is coming of age. Add in veteran stars like Cameron Jordan and the Saints are beginning to improve, despite ongoing needs at LB and CB.

Notable Resignings - RB Mark Ingram
Notable Additions - QB Matt Ryan, WR Golden Tate, TE Ladarius Green
Notable Losses - QB Drew Brees (retired - age)
Draft Pick - DE Rashad Martin
New Coach - Mike McCarthy


Mexico City Diablos - Last Season 8-8

Whilst 8 wins 2 years ago was enough for a wildcard spot, the Diablos were not as lucky a season ago as they repeated their win total but missed the playoffs. Losing Matt Ryan could be massive but Mexico City took steps to make his exit as painless as possible going forward, selecting Wisconsin QB Josh Mitchell with the #14 pick. If Mitchell can't start day 1, Tom Savage appears most likely to get the nod for the opener, a situation the Diablos can't be happy with. Everything else remains as is on offence, with Jones, Freeman and Sanu set to feature. Their offensive line is above average but far from great, they could desperately use a right tackle. An extra season of development has proved very handy for a number of Mexico's recently drafted defenders. DT Andrew Woodson, OLB Cesar Stevenson and FS Gordon Duncan should all be productive starters. Add in quality veterans like Desmond Trufant, Bobby Wagner and free agent acquisitions Jason McCourty, Anthony Barr and Brandon Flowers and the Diablos are possibly just a QB away from being a real force for Dan Quinn.

Notable Resignings - DE Vic Beasley, RG Jon Asamoah
Notable Additions - CB Jason McCourty, OLB Anthony Barr, CB Brandon Flowers
Notable Losses - QB Matt Ryan (roster), CB Leon Hall (retired - age)
Draft Pick - QB Josh Mitchell


Carolina Panthers - Last Season 10-6

Despite moving to a new coach in Mike Zimmer, results stayed the same as Carolina won the NFC South once again. A loaded Panthers team could have stood a good chance of winning the NFC had it not been for a stunning Dallas side that will still be sore it couldn't claim a Lombardi. The main loss for Carolina is mainstay tight end Greg Olsen, but he was getting long in the tooth and the Panthers have a ready made replacement in Parker Milton who enjoyed a solid rookie campaign. Cam Newton and Kelvin Benjamin continue to excel behind a very good offensive line that will still need some attention before too long. Ryan Khalil is a top centre but entering his 13th year, he can't play forever. The defence required the franchise tag to keep Shaq Thompson around, but everyone else was under contract and returns. Kuechly and Patrick join Thompson and DT Star Lotulelei will all continue to wreck offensive gameplan. Charles Johnson is getting old but the Panthers have some young DEs behind him, including rookie Raysean Phillip from this latest draft. CB depth may be the biggest question mark. With Bene Benwikere leaving the team a few years ago, the Panthers haven't taken steps to acquire CBs to work behind All-Pro Josh Norman, who remains a stand out at his position.

Notable Resignings - OLB Shaq Thompson (franchise tag)
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - TE Greg Olsen (age)
Draft Pick - DE Raysean Phillip

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

NFC East


New York Giants - Last Season 8-8

One season in, Bryson Tracy appears to be an excellent choice to lead this team. His play was exactly what the Giants needed during his rookie season and he should continue to help the team improve going forward. The surprise of an 8 win campaign wasn't enough to save Marvin Lewis, the team is now in the control of surprising but not so surprising new appointment Eli Manning. New York will be hoping Eli can help the franchise improve as quickly as possible. Two issues require immediate attention on offence. The offensive line is amongst the worst in the league outside of 2nd year RT Josh McNeil who is a lone bright spot. Secondly is the lack of a dependable running back. The Giants are slated to begin the season with Jerick McKinnon in the backfield. Fortunately, receiver is a position is strength. The trio of Odell Beckham, Allen Robinson and Reuben Randle is as strong as any trio of receivers in the league. Defensively, the team is less boom or bust than on offence, significantly more middle of the road. The Giants displays stars in DT Kawann Short and the improving OLB tandem of Travis and 2nd year man Javonte Givens, but the team lacks talent at safety in particular. Still, there are building blocks in place that were not there a year or two ago.

Notable Resignings - WR Allen Robinson, CB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - WR Victor Cruz (age)
Draft Pick - OLB Ben McGhee
New Coach - Eli Manning


Washington Redskins - Last Season 7-9

A year ago, the Redskins looked like they could step up and become a potential contender in the NFC and a challenger to Dallas. Fast forward a year and the NFL have finally nailed their coffin shut as a franchise, moving the team to London and changing their name. On the field, they appear unable to break the 7/8 win barrier and really push on. It will be interesting to see how the team performs in the final season in Washington and under the Redskins name. It may have made sense to keep Jay Gruden for one more season before a fresh start in the UK but Coach Gruden is out and old flame Mike Shanahan is back in charge. A familiar face, the 67 year old has a relatively settled side to work with. Trent Williams and Stephen Paea were resigned to ensure continuity on the offensive line. Behind that line, Mike Stark will look to connect with AJ Green, Jordan Reed and DeSean Jackson as frequently as possible. Alfred Morris is beginning to slow due to age but remains an integral and well used part of the offence. Defensively, the unit is led by FS Shaman Parker who has developed into a top option at his position. Gooden and Aldon Smith excel in front of Parker and the team has depth on the outside at corner. The team could use some investment across the defensive line but recent 1st rounder Jeffery Doyle is a good start and they are pretty well placed on this side of the ball.

Notable Resignings - LT Trent Williams, LG Stephen Paea, CB Chris Culliver, SS Donte Whitner
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - DT Jeffery Doyle


Philadelphia Eagles - Last Season 9-7

The appointment of Andy Reid saw an immediate upturn in results and after a 9 win season the Eagles were unfortunate not to secure a wildcard spot. The most interesting question for the season ahead is who starts at QB for Philadelphia? Robert Griffin III has the experience and could be the most likely option. 2nd year man BJ Blake could sneak in and claim the spot, or maybe it will go to forgotten man Geno Smith who is also on the Eagles roster after a largely failed stints in New York and more recently Houston. Very little else has changed for Philly. Connor Barwin has resigned and slots back into the defence with fellow stalwart Fletcher Cox. Jaylen Riley is establishing himself as a regular at SS, rookie Marquise Griffin may start from day 1 at OLB. Outside of the unknown at QB, Demarco Murray will continue his role as RB1. Latevin Preston is still struggling to prove he has the ability to be a leading WR in the league, this season could be make or break. Fortunately for the Eagles, TE Zach Ertz is still more than able as a premier receiving tight end option. The offensive line appears to have settled down after the woes of the last few years.

Notable Resignings - OLB Connor Barwin
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - OLB Marquise Griffin


Dallas Cowboys - Last Season 14-2

The Cowboys and coach of the year Jason Garrett crushed the NFL last season and will still be wondering how they didn't win a championship. The team has a couple of question marks hanging over them in a quest to go one step further this season, but for the most part they are entirely intact from last term. On offence, it is business as usual. Tyson McBride looks to be the next big thing in the league and it will be interesting to see what he can do this season. Dez Bryant and Joseph Randle return and will be leant on heavily. The O-line is still the best in the league, though Zach Martin needed franchise tagging for a 2nd straight season. Defensively, the team need to address both safety positions but that didn't hold them back much last season and is unlikely to do so this time around. The only other issue is the retirement of line backer Sean Lee. There is no immediate replacement for Lee on the roster, so it will be interesting to see what Dallas do at the position. DE with Greg Hardy and Demarcus Lawrence and their 3 strong corners led by Sam Shields continue to be areas of strength. This team is still loaded and ready for another title push.

Notable Resignings - RG Zach Martin (franchise tag), CB Sam Shields
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - MLB Sean Lee (retired - age), DE Randy Gregory (salary)
Draft Pick - CB Julius Middlebrooks

[Neoprankster]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

Looks like a core is forming for the soon to be London squad.

How are the Diablos doing in ticket and merchandise sales?

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

Looks like a core is forming for the soon to be London squad.

How are the Diablos doing in ticket and merchandise sales?

To dip out of the game narrative for a moment (which I'm always happy to do as this is as much a sim as it is a story)......

Washington confuse me lol They have gone 5-11, 8-8, 7-9, 8-8 in the 4 years so far. Minor spoiler on their year 5 record:

Spoiler

Year 5 isn't the season they break through into the play-offs either (I'm nearly at the SB of season 5 in the sim). They went 5-11

They have a really well rounded team and for me should be doing more by now. Will have to see if a change of coach makes a difference, but see for yourself. The roster is pretty solid:

Offence
Defence

Mike Stark is a top 5 QB in terms of his Madden rating. AJ Green and Jordan Reed are excellent and they use Alfred Morris a lot, top 5 rushing attempts most years and he isn't bad. Their offensive line is strong. They have play makers on defence, 2 strong corners. Probably doesn't help that the CPU has created a juggernaut in Dallas, but still, that's only 2 losses a season.

As for the Diablos, they are settling in pretty well by the looks of things:

Diablos Ratings

9th in total value. Off the field they appear to be doing significantly better than on it, but they have lost Matt Ryan and again, minor spoiler on their year 5 record:

Spoiler

They stunk it up to the tune of a 3-12-1 record and a top 3 draft pick

I'll have a news item in week 2 or 3 of the year 5 explaining what happens at QB for them, but that's all I'll say for now!

Thanks for asking though, always enjoy the interaction.

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

NFC West


San Francisco 49ers - Last Season 4-12

Serious regression and familiar hangups marred John Harbaugh's 2nd season with the 49ers. A drop from 7 wins to 4 saw them land pick #3 in the draft. 2 years ago they selected a tackle in Zach Jose, picking 1 place lower this time around they selected Oklahoma's Kevin Wright, another tackle. An undoubted talent, but at what point do you stop making your strengths stronger and address your weaknesses? A good example of this was the lengths the 49ers went to in order to land Ameer Abdullah this off season, pouring significant time and resource into his signature. A solid runner no doubt, but Carlos Hyde is still going to be the #1 option at RB, making the former Detroit runner a luxury rather than a need. The offence still lacks a consistent QB with Colin Kaepernick back once again. The receivers are led by a relatively underwhelming Torrey Smith with little behind him, including former first round question mark Shadd Farrell. The offensive line has been invested in heavily but will take time to develop. The retirement of Joe Staley might have come a season too soon and that is a problem. Defensively the team is in good standing, fortunately. Bowman and Von Miller will be a presence as always, and Howard Noble is developing well as a solid corner behind Darius Slay.

Notable Resignings - LB Navarro Bowman
Notable Additions - RB Ameer Abdullah
Notable Losses - LT Joe Staley (retired - age)
Draft Pick - LT Kevin Wright


Seattle Seahawks - Last Season 6-10

The Seahawks still haven't addressed their slide after another sub-par season saw Mike Tomlin's side pick up just 6 wins, down 2 on the previous season. This team is in need of a reboot on mass rather that the slow removal of pieces as players chase a pay day elsewhere one by one. This season KJ Wright walked for pastures new, leaving a hole at OLB that Seattle have no answer for at the moment. Thomas, Chancellor, Irvin, Avril, Bennett and Sherman remain, but that starter at OLB as well as CB depth are real question marks heading into the season. Offensively, the Seahawks remain relatively constant. Andrew Luck is still the centrepiece, understandably. Keithen Dotson has an encouraging rookie campaign and continues to improve but it is too soon to say he has replaced Marshawn Lynch. Kearse and tight end Eric Ebron are the main receiving targets, but the O-line still needs work despite the selection of a left tackle with the 8th pick this past draft now they have a 1st round selection again.

Notable Resignings - FS Earl Thomas, CB Richard Sherman, DE Cliff Avril
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - OLB KJ Wright
Draft Pick - LT Thomas Meyer


St Louis Rams - Last Season 7-9

Somewhat of a step backwards for the Rams as they missed the play-offs in a relatively winnable division. Perhaps one reason was the distraction of Todd Gurley who has now left the sport to take up a career as an athlete. Daryl Mack is a more than capable replacement and is the kind of weapon Herschel Robinson needs more of. The mass influx of players into Tennessee last season saw a few players pushed out. Dorall Green-Beckham never really made an impact for the Titans but he'll get another shot in St Louis. The offensive line is still one of the poorest in the league. Ryan Clady could be considered one of its better components but he is strongly on the downside of his career. Quadir Jamison struggled as a rookie but has plenty of time to improve. Defensively the team can continue with business as usual. Joe Philbin has a real top tier unit on his hands and further strengthened it with the pick up of nickel corner Bene Benwikere and 11th overall selection Jermane Owens at DE. The front seven should continue to dominate, there are very few chinks in the armour of this group.

Notable Resignings - TE Lance Kendricks
Notable Additions - WR Dorall Green-Beckham, CB Bene Benwikere
Notable Losses - RB Todd Gurley (retired - cross sport), DT Terrance Knighton (age)
Draft Pick - DE Jermane Owens


Arizona Cardinals - Last Season 9-6-1

Sean McDermott began his coaching career at Arizona with a division win and a wildcard round victory before falling like most to the will of the Cowboys. One issue catching up with the Cardinals is the back end of a number of free agent contracts handed up a few years ago to players like Chris Ivory, Russell Wilson and Jason Pierre-Paul. Whilst those players helped land the club a Lombardi trophy, this is the inevitable downside. Talented LT Jared Veldheer couldn't return, the red birds simply couldn't afford him. The offensive line is still relatively stable at guard and centre however. Russell Wilson continues to be a great QB and David Johnson a solid RB. Michael Floyd and Allen Hurns are more than capable as a tandem on the outside, leaving the Arizona offence well rounded and productive with both run and pass. Defensively there are bigger issues. The selection of Tyri Mason should help, but Calais Campbell is slowing down and JPP is showing his age as well. Both are on hefty contracts that could hurt when trying to source affordable pieces to slot into this unit. OLB CJ Mincey is continuing to struggle and may not get too many more shots at a starting role before being declared a bust. The safety position, particularly from Tyrann Mathieu may help cover up some of the short comings from the front seven, but it isn't a great solution.

Notable Resignings - RB David Johnson (franchise tag)
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - LT Jared Veldheer
Draft Pick - DE Tyri Mason

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

AFC North


Baltimore Ravens - Last Season 4-12

It was only a matter of time before the Ravens hit a serious roadblock and the wheels came off for them. The talent on their roster has continued to dwindle and poor personnel decisions and draft choices have caught up with them. Joe Flacco's contract is finally up and he has been resigned for a further 2 years at a friendlier rate. A short term deal probably signals the end for Flacco in Baltimore once it is completed though, Zach Martin is eagerly waiting in the wings. Offensive skill positions remain a big issue. Ronnie Hillman is nothing more than a stop gap at running back. Tavon Austin and Malcolm Narcisse aren't getting it done at WR. Narcisse is a free agent at the end of this season, it will be interesting to see if the Ravens bring him back. The main positive on offence is their line play, which is impressive. Anchored by La'el Collins, it is a solid situation for either Flacco or Martin. On defence, there are too many missing pieces as well. Issues at CB, LB and FS are particularly pressing. CJ Mosley is a top tier LB with little around him. The same can be said for DT Brandon Williams. Without help on the defensive line, he can be easily neutralised with a double or triple team. The Ravens need to get much better on this side of the ball before they can improve.

Notable Resignings - QB Joe Flacco
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - CB Jimmy Smith (coach)
Draft Pick - WR Dejon Phillip


Cleveland Browns - Last Season 9-7

Gus Bradley enjoyed a solid 9 win season in his debut year in Cleveland and will be hoping he can follow that up rather than returning to the norm. The blueprint for that in Bradley's eyes is to keep the current roster together and hope continuity is the best way forward. Guard Joel Bitino and Centre Alex Mack have been resigned and Tackle Jared Veldheer has been recruited from the Cards. The offensive line continues to be one of the strongest in league. Behind it, Nate Gray is firmly entrenched as the starter. WR Martavis Bryant has also been resigned and Aundre Fuller is still at RB. The team is opposite on defence, with little strength on the line and significant strength elsewhere. The Browns could use a real difference maker at DE and their linebackers aren't the best. The answer at DE could be Larone Penn who was drafted with the 18th pick this last year. Safety and corner are much stronger with a resigned Joe Haden and long time starter Tashaun Gipson leading the way.

Notable Resignings - LG Joel Bitino, C Alex Mack, CB Joe Haden, WR Martavis Bryant
Notable Additions - LT Jared Veldheer
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - DE Larone Penn


Pittsburgh Steelers - Last Season 9-7

John Fox must be cursing the front office in Pittsburgh as they dismantled his defence to accommodate Antonio Brown before allowing him to leave town anyway. Injury to Ben Roethlisberger last season gave a window into the future. He may well retire in the next year or two and the team have no replacement lined up. It could be the Steelers are in a very bad place for more than a few years to come if action isn't taken. The team still has Le'Veon Bell, he will always be integral to their offence.Their offensive line is at least set for a while, particularly at guard with David Decastro. Receiver continues to be an issue unless Quarles and Lamb can step up. The defensive side of the ball isn't quite as dicey as year ago due to the development of some younger players. Dorian Austin at CB, Javonte Mincy at DT and recently drafted DE DJ Samuels will all need to play big roles if the team is to succeed. It might be too soon for them but time will tell. Timmons is the one of the few established starter to get excited about, but KJ Wright has joined from Seattle and is a welcome addition.

Notable Resignings - None
Notable Additions - OLB KJ Wright
Notable Losses - WR Antonio Brown (team)
Draft Pick - DE DJ Samuels


Cincinnati Bengals - Last Season 10-6

Cincinatti finally broke their long streak of post season trips without success, collecting a title that nobody expected them to attain. It allows their roster to be seen in a new light, retaining stars are now seen as players who can get the job done rather than pieces that potentially moved on as they can't get over that play-off hump. DE Carlos Dunlap was resigned and was the only significant business conducted during the off season. The Bengals will look to ride their front 7 once more and create pressure on QBs. CB and LB aren't particularly deep, but they weren't a season ago and it didn't cause issues. Offensively things are the same as well, questions are receiver and right guard, but Dalton, Hill and Eifert return and have proven they can get things done. Receiver Parker Monroe was drafted this last summer to add to the mix and Brandon Riley was effective last season without really causing waves.

Notable Resignings - DE Carlos Dunlap
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - WR Parker Monroe

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

AFC South


Indianapolis Colts - Last Season 3-13

The life after Andrew Luck experience came unstuck after just one season as the promise of Blake Bortles was significantly different to reality. A 3 win campaign netted the Colts #2 pick in the draft and Tomas Single was sent on his way. In a hugely interesting turn of events, the Colts and Chuck Pagano showed that time can heal all, going back to the club that released him 3 years ago. Addressing the Bortles issue, Indianapolis used their high pick to select acclaimed QB prospect Rob Pickett. The days for Blake Bortles are undoubtedly numbered. Whoever lines up at QB, free agent acquisition Kevin White has come over from Chicago and will form a nice partnership with TY Hilton. Another plus is the offensive line for Indy that has solid starters across the board, led by Chance Warmack at RG. RB is a different story. Ryan Matthews has retired after Frank Gore also called it quits and there is little to step into the void for the Colts. Defensively, the team are a top unit in the making. This season may be too soon for them to excel but it is on the horizon if all goes to plan. The team have selected 5 defensive players in the first round of the last 3 drafts and those players are set to shine. FS Blalock, CB Demarkus Morris, DTs Caldwell and Tyrone Griffin and MLB Aldrin Miles should all feature for a number of years.

Notable Resignings - CB Vontae Davis
Notable Additions - SS Da'Norris Searcy, WR Kevin White
Notable Losses - RB Ryan Matthews (retired - age)
Draft Picks - QB Rob Pickett
New Coach - Chuck Pagano


Tennessee Titans - Last Season 6-10

The first season of Chip Kelly was less than impressive and didn't bring the kind of success the team was looking for. To counteract the issue, the Titans went out and spent a lot of money on offence. Marcus Mariota was understandably resigned to a hefty 6 year, $132m deal that wasn't hard to predict, though the amount may have been. Secondly, Antonio Brown's departure from Pittsburgh could be Tennessee's gain as he moves to a new home. Between Brown, TE Jimmy Graham plus WRs Kendall Wright and Jarvis Landry, the Titans can have no excuses on offence. Defensively the team might need a lot of points on the board. CB Jason McCourty and SS Da'Norris Searcy have both left the organisation, leaving questions in the secondary. The linebackers need previous free agent Barkavious Mingo and aging Brian Orakpo to step up as usual. One good piece of business was the resigning of Jurrell Casey, but the star DE is likely to have rookie Keevin Ball starting opposite him, a move that is hardly going to free him up from double teams.

Notable Resignings - QB Marcus Mariota, DE Jurrell Casey
Notable Additions - WR Antonio Brown
Notable Losses - CB Jason McCourty, SS Da'Norris Searcy
Draft Pick - DE Keevin Ball


Jacksonville Jaguars - Last Season 6-9-1

It turns out Blake Bortles didn't just hurt the Colts this season, but his absence appeared to hurt to Jags as well. 11 wins were reduced to just 6 and Gary Kubiak will be on a much shorter leash now. Like the Colts, Jacksonville dipped their toe into the QB draft pool during the off season, selecting Trett Hicks at #9. That should spell the end for Tyrod Taylor before long. Arian Foster has retired, leaving Doug Martin as the feature back. WR is still up in the air, Stevie Johnson is slated as WR1 and didn't impress during his 1st season with the team. Fortunately Julius Thomas is still a great TE. Defensively the team has a young and impressive defensive line led by Dante Fowler Jr, fresh off his surprisingly cheap contract renewal. The LB group will be struggling to deal with the retirement of long time leader Paul Posluszny but McClain and Telvin Smith are still valuable pieces. The secondary could still use some attention, particularly at free safety, but things look bright for the future.

Notable Resignings - DE Dante Fowler Jr, CB Davon House
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - MLB Paul Posluszny (retired - age), RB Arian Foster (retired - age)
Draft Pick - QB Trett Hicks


Houston Texans - Last Season 11-5

Whilst Ryan Mack probably had a plan involving Matt Stafford in mind last season, things simply didn't pan out that way. Instead, the Texans got a good look at Arryn Carroll and the young passer didn't disappoint. Houston flipped a 5-11 record into an 11-5 campaign, the second highest win total in team history and even grabbed the AFC's #1 seed for the first time ever. Whilst they couldn't translate the regular season into play-off success, it was still a major step forward for the team. Stafford may start the season but there is no doubt his time with the team is limited at best. Hopkins continues to be a top tier WR, and Jaelen Strong has resigned after his rookie deal concluded. The young pass catcher, like Hopkins, has traversed the dodgy QB situation in Houston for a while and posted 1,000 yard receiving seasons in each of his first 4 years. He wont't fly under the radar much longer and the Texans will be wise to lean on the passing game as much as possible with little at RB and Rommell Taylor a serious force as a receiving tight end. It isn't a stretch to say he has assumed the throne of top receiving TE passed from Antonio Gates to Rob Gronkowski in recent years. Defensively the team is looking pretty complete as well. A hole exists at OLB that could do with being plugged, and Captain Munnerlyn may end up at CB1 which is a stretch for a guy who has spent his career mainly playing the nickel. Inside though, Cushings, JJ Watt, Clowney, rookie DT R.J Ingram and safety Malcolm Jenkins should all push this unit into the top half of the rankings.

Notable Resignings - WR Jaelen Strong
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - LT Duane Brown (retired - age)
Draft Pick - DT R.J Ingram

[Neoprankster]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

How much longer would you say the Rams might stay in St Louis in this thread?

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

AFC East


New York Jets - Last Season 7-9

Whilst a 7 win season isn't the worst, it wasn't enough to keep Todd Bowles in a job and the team missed the play-offs again. The signs were there that the team may struggle, but losing Jack Riley for the season didn't help. Replacing Bowles is a man looking for NFL redemption in the shape of Lane Kiffin. A QB guru, Kiffin was responsible for the development of Heisman winner Matt Leinart at USC, recent Jaguars draftee Trett Hicks from Alabama, and others like Matt Barkley and Jonathan Crompton. Whilst neither Leinart, Barkley nor Crompton worked out in the NFL, Kiffin knows QBs. The Jets will hope he can take Riley to the next level and are willing to overlook his 5-15 NFL record as a head coach to take that chance. It is unlikely to work in Kiffin's favour that the Jets need some serious work right now. Their offensive line is still weak from the retirement of long standing players like Nick Mangold and D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Brandon Marshall has also now retired, as has Darrelle Revis. That leaves an offence with protection problems for Riley and runner Desmon Tolliver and Eric Decker has nobody to help in the receiving game aside from last year's 1st round selection Rodnell King. Defensively the loss of Revis will hurt, Buster Skrine is slated as the top corner on the depth chart but he is unlikely to be up to the task. Aside from Demario Davis and Calvin Pryor, the front 3 of Harrison, Richardson and Wilkinson is going to have to do it all for the Jets. Even with Riley back, don't be surprised if the Jets prop up this division next year as well.

Notable Resignings - WR Eric Decker
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - WR Brandon Marshall (retired - age), CB Darrelle Revis (retired - age)
Draft Pick - CB Malik Roberson
New Coach - Lane Kiffin


Buffalo Bills - Last Season 9-7

Rex Ryan continues to be an integral part of the AFC West as his Buffalo team put together a strong 9 win campaign but couldn't make the play-offs. All in all it was a quiet off season for the Bills who appear to think that success can come from this group, and with 20 wins in 2 seasons that is a possibility. The doubters to that theory may point to a defence that doesn't jump off the page but does get results. DE is a question mark since Mario Williams left, as is OLB and safety but the Bills seem to find a way to plug someone in to do a job. Call it the Rex Ryan effect. One luxury the Bills can enjoy is at corner with Stephon Gilmore joined in the off season by ex-Raven Jimmy Smith, a solid 1-2 combo on the outside. Another is Marcell Darius, a real menace at DT. The offence will once again be paced by former Raider David Carr and LeSean McCoy. Sammy Watkins is in the prime of his career now and will need to impress with little around him on the WR depth chart. Charles Clay is a good contributor at TE and also helps block for a middle of the road offensive line. Once LT Cordy Glenn retires, that line could be much more of an issue. For now though, he's holding it together for them.

Notable Resignings - None
Notable Additions - Cb Jimmy Smith
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - DE Darius Griffin


Miami Dolphins - Last Season 10-6

A drastic improvement from 2 wins to 10 wins and an AFC Championship game loss still wasn't enough for Mike McCarthy who now must be wondering what he needs to do to receive some respect in the NFL after he was equally harshly treated in Green Bay. In a revert to type move, the Dolphins went with conservative Ken Whisenhunt, it will be interesting how a young QB like Claude McDonald develops under his tutelage. McDonald may see the field this season, but Tannerhill perhaps did enough to hang onto his job a little longer after last season's exploits. RB continues to be an issue for the 'Fins. Receiver could go either way, with the lack of experience but potential of Quin Scott and Mack Duncan, though the addition of veteran Victor Cruz should provide a great talisman for that group. The offensive line, like RB needs attention and will continue to hold the offence back. The same certainly cannot be said for the defensive line which continues to be perhaps the best in the league all round. Suh, Floyd, Willians, Vernon and Jordan are all firmly established veterans and will cause no end of issues up front. Corner and safety are relatively deep. Current LB leader Ray Maualuga isn't getting any younger. If the team could add a solid LB or 2 then this could be the best defence in the league on paper.

Notable Resignings - MLB Rey Maualuga
Notable Additions - WR Victor Cruz
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - RT Kevin Blake
New Coach - Ken Whisenhunt


New England Patriots - Last Season 11-5

Business as usual sees the Patriots return to the top of the East and #2 seed in the AFC. However, with the current volatility of the division it is anyone's guess who will top the standings between these 4 teams next season. For now though, Nick Saban has some success in the NFL and will try to keep this unit together to maintain it. Jimmy Garoppolo should hold off the charge from Will Phillip and remain the starter, and both Garoppolo and RB Lemar Miller will enjoy playing behind a settled and strong offensive line that Nate Solder continues to anchor from left tackle. Long time contributors Rob Gronkowski and Julius Edelman will continue to feature, but the receiving options are not as deep as they could be in New England, something the team looked to address in the draft. Defensively things are quite similar in Foxboro and that isn't a bad thing. McCourty, Mayo, Collins, Cesar Carter and Chandler Jones all return and will feature heavily in the game plan. Stuart Patterson is developing into a solid corner and will soon become part of the core of this team's defence rather than a newcomer.

Notable Resignings - None
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - WR Josh Penn

[DynasticJumper]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

REVIS ISLAND GONE?!?!?!

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

I know, right?! He got old, you gotta think, this is the 2019/20 season. Fair chance Revis could do that in real life, he'd be 34. Plus the Jets aren't really going anywhere and don't have a lot on defence.

Buster Skrine Island?!

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

How much longer would you say the Rams might stay in St Louis in this thread?

It's hard to say. Relocation and new stadium builds are both governed by a random roll at the start of each season, with a 5% chance for each team. There have been a few rolls that have been successful that I've ignored, I'm pretty sure one was a new stadium for Dallas, which just isn't necessary.

So, unless St Louis rolls to relocate, most likely they'll be staying where they are and Stan Kroenke will have to line his pockets with something else! Plus 2 teams have moved in 5 years, don't really want any more for a while now.

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

AFC West


Denver Broncos - Last Season 6-10

Denver reversed their 10-6 record into a 6-10 mark that propped up the AFC West. A lot of that can be chalked up to Ryan Nassib being lost for the whole of the season. He is back and you would imagine he'll start but Peyton Manning should know what is best at QB. CJ Anderson now starts at RB, the team is due an upgrade but he should be able to carry the torch this season at least with Marshawn Lynch retiring. Fortunately Thomas and Sanders still feature at WR, they are both great players. Their offensive line isn't the best, but is young and improving which is a good sign for the future. Defensively the team has a couple of holes but the majority of their defence is set. The secondary is solid, especially at corner back with depth plus the star power of Chris Harris. Clay Matthews has been drafted in to a line backer group that includes Brandon Marshall and last year's 1st round pick Sam Dwyer, Matthews will be hoping a change of scenery helps the twilight of his career. Defensive line is the main issue for Denver, particularly defensive tackle. This is something they could do with addressing, a little pressure up front would make this secondary very dangerous.

Notable Resignings - QB Ryan Nassib
Notable Additions - OLB Clay Matthews
Notable Losses - Marshawn Lynch (retired - age)
Draft Pick - LT Keifer Tarpley


Kansas City Chiefs - Last Season 6-9-1

Ron Rivera didn't have the best of times in the new surroundings of Kansas, but it may just take a little while for coach and team to get in sync. 6 wins is a low since 2012. There are a number of obstacles to overcome for the Chiefs, not least the transition from Alex Smith to a new QB. Drew Carter has been the heir apparent since being drafted but it remains to be seen if he has developed enough to succeed. Dexter McCluster isn't likely to be a long term answer at RB, that is more certain. WR offers further questions with an aging Jeremy Maclin, a continually underwhelming Brian Quick and the relative unknown of 2nd year Antonio Gore. The only solid foundations the team possess right now are TE Travis Kelce and 3rd year Centre Harris Fletcher, who stars on an above average line. The defence has begun to break apart from the unit that won a Super Bowl. Eric Berry and Justin Houston still have undoubted ability, but MLB and CB depth beyond Sean Smith are real concerns. Fortunately the team retained DE Allen Bailey, the front 4 wouldn't have looked quite as strong with another gap to fill.

Notable Resignings - CB Sean Smith, DE Allen Bailey
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - QB Alex Smith (retired - age), RB Chris Johnson (age)
Draft Pick - OLB Nick Sims


San Diego Chargers - Last Season 10-6

The Chargers also flipped their record from a year ago, but they fortunately went from 6-10 to 10-6. Another poor season for Brady Leland might have been too much to take, so he will be hoping the team can push on. Long term QB Philip Rivers is going along with a Drew Brees-esque 1 year deal after 1 year deal to see what happens. Rivers will enjoy the help of Melvin Gordon, new signing Greg Olsen and Keenan Allen. Beyond the #1 at each position though, the Chargers struggle for offensive depth. Players like receiver Cody Latimer aren't ready for such an involved role. The offensive line is a further question mark. LT Eric White is a potential red flag and RG Parker Small may end up starting as a rookie. Defence is a similar story. Players like DE Corey Luiget and LBs Ryan Shazier and Manti Te'o work as established starters, but there are gaps and a lack of depth. Last year's #6 pick Tyrone Briggs is likely to be the #1 CB, few signs in his rookie year suggested he is ready for that right now. Fortunately, the corners should have solid safeties behind them.

Notable Resignings - QB Philip Rivers, RB Melvin Gordon
Notable Additions - TE Greg Olsen
Notable Losses - CB Brandon Flowers (salary), TE Ladarius Green (coach)
Draft Pick - RG Parker Small


Oakland Raiders - Last Season 10-6

A 10 win season for the Raiders was their best effort since 11 wins in 2002. It still wasn't enough to keep Jack Del Rio in a job as the team decided a different man was required for taking the team forward. That man was Jon Gruden, you have to feel that even if Del Rio had won the Super Bowl, if the team had a shot at Gruden they would have taken it regardless. And the former TV man has a lot to work with now he's stepped away from the camera. Max Shaw is the star of an offence that has a lot to offer. A new running back is perhaps the biggest need, with Theo Riddick now passed 30. Gordon and Cooper are difficult to cover as a duo and the offensive line offers a lot of support, left guard Dee Anthony is the pick of the bunch but the players around him are solid. Aldon Smith wasn't missed too much last season but drafting OLB Phillip Benjamin should fill that void before too long, especially playing alongside Dont'a Hightower and Eldrin Garner. Kevin Bernard held up well as the top corner for the team last year and deserves credit for it. He'll once again lead that unit that includes last year's 1st round pick Demarcus Parker, both of which will be aided by the pressure created by top 3 defensive player in the league Khalil Mack.

Notable Resignings - WR Amari Cooper
Notable Additions - None
Notable Losses - None
Draft Pick - OLB Phillip Benjamin
New Coach - Jon Gruden

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

Year 5 19/20 - Week 1


The Worldwide Leader in Sport


Ed Shakespear, NFL Analyst

Needing Answers at QB, Foles, Lucas Find New Homes

It is becoming more apparent than ever that you cannot win without a legitimate signal caller in today's NFL. Even in an 11 a side game, with a roster of 53 players, no position is more important than quarterback. Two teams that felt the pressing need for a passer at short notice took a shot at an answer this week as Tampa Bay traded for Morgan Lucas from Detroit, and a day later Nick Foles was on his way from the Giants to Mexico City.



With Jameis Winston bolting from Tampa to Detroit as a free agent, it left a void for the Buccaneers that they may have struggled to fill. Without a legitimate replacement for Winston on the roster, they went to the Lions and took their starter from last season instead. Detroit seemed happy to give up on Lucas after just one season, despite a 10-6 record and solid contributions managing a run based offence. Lucas is sure to be motivated to prove what he can do after being given far less than a fair shot in Detroit, something that Jim Tomsula is hoping to tap into. "He looks hungry. Great to have him here, really. It was tough watching Jameis leave, we did everything we could but his heart wasn't in it and he wanted to go. All that matters now is we have a great QB here with Morgan, he's going to come in and compete and we're eager to see what he can do for us". It is thought the Bucs parted with a 5th round pick for Lucas, such a low price suggests just how quickly the Lions were willing to move on from his tenure.



Whilst Tampa may well be able to grow with their new QB, Mexico City went for a more established veteran to steady the ship until a long term answer can be found. Over in New York the Giants are confident they have their answer at QB with young passer Bryson Tracy. That made their back up Nick Foles significantly more expendable and the Diablos were more than willing to do business. Whilst Foles has bounced around the league for a number of years without a steady starting gig, he should still be able to offer at least serviceable QB play at this stage of his career. More of a proven commodity than Lucas, the ex St Louis man commanded a 3rd round pick. For Mexico City, that was still better than embracing a season of uncertainty at football's most important position.

Ed Shakespear
ESPN

[Rumplebeanskin]

Re: The N"If"L - A Look into the Future of an Alternate NFL

Year 5 19/20 - Week 3


The 24-Hour Home of CBS Sports


Jeff Hardy-Grant, Contributor

Jared Cole, the Next Great QB?

Few things can ever be described as a "sure thing" regarding college players. On the surface though, Jared Cole might be the closest thing there has been. Crisp, refined mechanics, the media polish of a significantly more seasoned veteran, charisma that sells and most importantly, wins, success and accolades. And it isn't by accident either. Team Cole has been setting this career up for a long time and they are just a few steps away from realising the dream.



So who is Jared Cole? From the footballing hotbed of Texas, the 6'3", 225lb athlete has ticked every box throughout his career to date. He rose to prominence at Katy High School, a powerhouse in a highly competitive state. The school was attended by NFL star Andy Dalton, yet Cole holds nearly every passing record on offer. His play quickly yielded multiple National Championships and quite the reputation across the country. Unsurprisingly, his exploits led him to become one of the most recruited prospects in College Football history. Once the dust had settled, Cole elected to head for "The Swamp" to build on the Florida programme assembled by now Head Coach of the Denver Broncos, Doug Nussmeier. Nussmeier and Houston Texans starter Arryn Carroll put together a perennial contender that was poised perfectly for Cole, committing to the Gators as Carroll was set to head to the NFL as a senior.

Aside from a National Championship as a freshman, there might not be too much above that leaps off the page and sets Cole out from the masses of other QBs that have come before him. That lies in "Team Cole".



Born into a sporting family, his mother a former Olympic swimmer, his dad a professional baseball player. Whilst Jared's brother Max followed in his father's footsteps and currently sits within the Texas Ranger's farm system, Jared loved football through and through. Now a minor league coach, Tony Cole tutored his sons religiously on throwing technique, mechanics, core strength. The more he taught, the more they wanted to learn. "Some might see it as pretty....cold? I don't know!" Tony Cole laughed, "But the more I taught those boys, the more interested they became. Before long, it stopped being a 'why aren't you just letting your kids play?' thing and became a much more consuming thing for them. They'd compete with each other over and over, but it wasn't too long before they went their seperate ways, Jared went with football and Max stuck with the baseball. But that was fine, they loved it and were happy".

2 other people played a pretty huge role in the shaping of Jared Cole and his almost destiny like rise in the game, and they still do. "Troy [Aikman] is like the uncle that Max and Jared always wanted, I think," chuckled Wendy Cole. "We were down here in Texas with Tony playing for the Rangers. Tony and Troy met at a charity thing the Cowboys were hosting back in the early 90's. They quickly hit it off and once the kids were here, he was always around, having a blast!" And if Aikman was the uncle that Jared never had, his actual uncle was equally useful to his current career, hugely influential NFL agent Tom Condon. "When you take a step back and look at it, I'm not really surprised that Jared has ended up where he is. When we'd go to Tommy's house, he had memorabilia everywhere you look, floor to ceiling. To a young mind, those things probably stick out. I guess Tony is probably thanking his lucky stars he managed to keep at least one son playing baseball!"



Perhaps where Cole ends up is still unknown, but Team Cole hasn't been shy about charting his career path to the NFL for some time now. After winning his first National Championship, Tony Cole's post game interview stating that his son would be back and trying to repeat at Florida before moving to the NFL after his 2nd year. "Some say I'm too involved maybe, but I think we're doing the right thing and Jared is on board with us on that. We can't wait to see what he can do at that next level." Both Condon and Aikman are thought to be heavily involved in the thinking processes of Team Cole, hardly a surprise given their experience. Every decision is measured, considered, and predetermined. They all want Jared in the NFL, as the #1 pick, and they know when they want it to happen. For whichever team picks #1 this year, they want Cole in the NFL as well. Right now though, identifying that team might be only thing left to chance with Jared Cole.

JHG
CBS Sports