^^^THIS
This is what I usually do (even though I do tend to "select" one of the 32 teams as my specific team) I run a total-control franchise, playing my own storylines and making my own moves, while trying to keep it "logical"
I've always thought regardless of the advances any sports title could make with technology/innovation, they will never be able to create a full storyline, real-life situations sports game (offseason injuries, conduct issues...) This is why I like to take this experience on my own.
What I do is create a document with GM attitudes for each team and act accordingly. Kind of like MLB The Show has "contending, rebuilding..." or "aggressive FA, conservative...) But this is rambling...
My team is the San Diego Super Chargers! :P