Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

[gamerMark]

Title/Console: Madden 15 on PS3

Settings:
Offline CFM - Owner
Skill level - All Pro
Sliders - Armor & Swords (customized)
Quarter length - 13 mins (acc 15 sec)
Default roster
All games played

Player statement:

This is my first dynasty on any forum so please bear with me as I learn as I go. I've enjoyed Madden franchise mode since its inception and my goal has always been to run the most realistic franchise as possible. I don't have any house rules in place, just my discretion to keep the franchise running how I see fit.

I've lurked this forum for quite some time and have really enjoyed the work of many here and it has tempted me to begin my own project. My lack of knowledge in web design, coding and all that fancy stuff some if you are capable of has deterred me until now. It is my hope that I can make up for my deficiency in that area with the details of the project to make it enjoyable. If not, at least I have a new space to summarize my franchise.

Disclaimer: All accounts of this franchise are fictional and are for entertainment purposes only.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Johnson relinquishes ownership of Jets, local recycling innovator Murphy wins auction

The Associated Press
Phil Harnett (AP Sports Writer) July 1, 2014 1:08 AM

NEW YORK, N.Y. (AP) -- Facing a federal indictment and pressure from the other 31 NFL owners, Woody Johnson has given up control of The New York Jets. Federal prosecutor’s re-opened an investigation earlier this year upon receiving new evidence of Johnson’s participation in a sham tax shelter. Johnson had previously testified in 2006 before a Senate panel regarding the allegations which resulted in a settlement with the IRS. The new evidence has now revealed that Johnson was not only a participant, but that he was the lead conspirator in the tax evasion plan. It is charged that Johnson, through his company Johnson Company Inc., used purchases of approximately $2 billion in capital gains losses to erase taxable gains garnered from stock sales. As a result, the U.S. treasury lost an estimated $600 million in revenue. With immense back tax penalties, fees, and a possible criminal prosecution on the horizon, the NFL owners held an emergency meeting and unanimously agreed that Johnson was no longer fit to continue his ownership of the Jets. Soon after being informed of the decision, a desperate and demoralized Johnson agreed to step down and allow the NFL to auction off his franchise.

A statement released late Monday night by the NFL’s commissioner’s office announced the winning bid for the ownership of the New York Jets. New Jersey businessman Mark Murphy won the competition with a staggering $2 billion bid, the largest purchase price for a NFL team to date. A Long Island native and resident of Wychoff, N.J., Murphy (45) is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy where he earned a mechanical engineering degree while playing defensive back for the football team. Following graduation and five years of active duty service as a helicopter pilot, Murphy began working for his Uncle, the late Norman Nicholls, at Nicholl Paper Mills located in Elmwood Park, N.J. Upon the passing of his Uncle in 2009, Murphy assumed control as Chairman and CEO of the company and led its transformation into the industry leader in recycled paper products. Murphy is also owner of Greenland Inc., a timberlands and real estate investment company.

Murphy was reached for comment following the announcement and said, “Our family is blessed to have this opportunity. As lifelong fans of the Jets, we are committed to being a first class organization in every way and most importantly, winning the Super Bowl.”

The sale is subject to approval by a three-quarters majority of the NFL’s other 31 owners which will be expected to come at league meetings July 15. With deep pockets and an impeccable reputation, it’s considered by insiders as a formality as the NFL looks to move on quickly from the disgraced Johnson.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

NFL owners unanimously approve sale of Jets, Murphy eliminates team president position

The Associated Press
Alan Toomey (AP Sports Writer) July 15, 2014 4:25 PM

NEW YORK, N.Y. (AP) -- The sale of the New York Jets to New Jersey businessman Mark Murphy was finalized earlier this afternoon as the NFL owners met in New York to vote on the purchase. Thirty one approval votes were submitted to the relief of Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We’ve righted the ship with the addition of Mr. Murphy as owner of the Jets.” Goodell said, “The last few weeks have been difficult for this office and the owners, but we feel we have restored credibility to the league and we look forward to the start of the season.”

New Jets owner Mark Murphy has wasted no time in assuming his new position. His first move was adding an office for himself at the Atlantic Health and Training Center in Florham Park, N.J. The state-of- the-art facility is the organization headquarters and serves as the practice location for the Jets. This is a departure from Woody Johnson whose office was located at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan and it signals that Murphy may have a more hands on approach than his predecessor.

When contacted at his new office via conference call, Murphy announced that earlier today he accepted the resignation of team President Neil Glat. Murphy explained, “Mr. Glat recognizes our need to move on from the previous organizational structure and we thank him for that.” Glat has been subpoenaed by federal prosecutors to testify in the case against Woody Johnson. With his close ties to Johnson, it is more likely that Glat was asked to resign. When asked about a replacement for the position Murphy stated, “I will assume the role and delegate all the responsibilities related to the business side of our football team.”

Following the conference call, Murphy’s office released notice of a scheduled press conference for Thursday at the Jets practice facility in Florham Park to officially introduce Murphy as owner.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Flight Leader
Murphy’s measured responses show he can handle hawkish NY media

Newsday Sports
Jack Reilly July 15, 2014

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- It’s been rough a few weeks for the NFL and Jets fans in particular. With the Woody Johnson scandal behind him, Commissioner Roger Goodell officially introduced Mark Murphy as New York Jets owner. Following a brief opening statement in which he remarked on his family and growing up as a Jets fan Murphy exclaimed, “A new era of Jets football is here, one that will strive to be the best and most fan oriented professional sports organization in existence.”

Murphy set the tone for the press conference when he rigorously declined to answer any questions regarding former owner Woody Johnson. “He (Johnson) is no longer owner of this franchise, what happened is well documented, I have nothing to add,” Murphy said.

The topic quickly turned to John Idzik and the rest of the personnel department. Since announcing his takeover of the responsibilities previously held by team president Neil Glat, speculation has been raised that Murphy may have his eye on control of player personnel. Murphy stated, “John has had success in this league and I look forward to getting to know him.” When further pressed on whether his role will expand outside of the business side of the organization Murphy firmly replied, “We have a personnel department in place.”

The conversation then shifted to Murphy's inherited head coach. Rex Ryan was given a 3 year extension by Johnson following an 8-8 2013 season. The incentive laden deal includes a clause that makes his salary non-guaranteed after 2015. Murphy was asked about the lack of job security in his head coach’s contract. "Coach Ryan and I have met a couple of times over the last two days and with our players reporting to camp on Sunday, our focus is on the upcoming season. If at some point the language in his new contract becomes an issue, it will be discussed privately. A strong relationship between ownership and the head coach is very important and it’s my goal to share one with Coach Ryan."

Murphy was also asked if he had reached out to any of the players and what he thought of second year QB Geno Smith. "Our players will be arriving in Cortland soon and I will address them as a team." On Geno he added, "Geno is a gifted young player who has great potential. It's our job to provide him with an environment that breeds success and it's his job to work hard. Together we can develop that potential and make it a reality. This is our approach with all of our players."

The buzz following the press conference wasn't so much about the message, but how it was delivered. Murphy's deep and stern voice is matched by his physical presence and confident demeanor. The stocky 45 year old former pilot is indeed a far departure from his unassuming predecessor. Only time will tell if the results on the field will differ. One thing is for sure after today, the Jets are led by a focused and passionate owner.

[Cheese2121]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Welcome to the dynasty reporting ranks my friend. I am very happy to see you trying your hand at it and really hope you enjoy.

Your writing is very good and I will definitely be following along. If you need help with anything always feel free to message me. My first dynasty report, which was one my favorites was very basic and I still had a blast with it. I hope you do as well!

Always my best.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Position battles take shape as training camp opens for Jets

SNY.TV
Matt Cosci July 21, 2014

Cortland, N.Y. -- Coaches and players are glad to be back to football after a tumultuous offseason that resulted in a change in ownership. The atmosphere on the practice fields of SUNY Cortland, home the Jets training camp, was noticeably subdued the first day compared to the last few years. Owner Mark Murphy, who has been present at each practice commented, “It’s a big change and it’s understandable that the players and coaches are a bit shell shocked, but I addressed the team and expressed my commitment to them and the coaching staff.”

As the team moved onto the second practice of day two the enthusiasm seemed to have picked up as position battles began to emerge. “There’s nothing like competition in training camp to jack up the tempo,” said Rex Ryan. Quarterback Geno Smith is showing better command of the west coast offense in his second year and free agent addition Michael Vick has been vocal in his acceptance as the back-up and his support for Smith. “I’m here to help Geno prepare and succeed,” Vick said.

The starting roles that are up for grabs on offense are at the running back, left guard, tight end, and wide receiver positions. Running back Chris Johnson signed a two year deal in the spring and is expected to push incumbents Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell for the starting job. Left guard is a battle between two second year pros, Brian Winters and William Campbell. At tight end rookie Jace Amaro is expected to split time with Jeff Cumberland whose play last year earned him a new contract.

The wide receiver position opposite of free agent addition Eric Decker will be hotly contested as the Jets currently have 10 other receivers in camp. Jeremy Kerley is best suited for the slot receiver role, but David Nelson, Stephen Hill, and a host of others including three rookies will get a look. Other than Decker, Nelson has the most experience and career production of the group and is a solid red zone target. Hill is rumored to be in danger of being cut after showing little progress in his first two seasons after being selected in the second round in 2012. The Jets spent three mid round picks in this year’s draft to address depth at the position, Jalen Saunders from Oklahoma and Shaq Evans from UCLA in the 4th round, and Quincy Enunwa out of Nebraska later in the 6th round.

On defense, questions at outside linebacker and in the secondary will need to be answered. The Jets have one of the top defensive fronts in the league, but veteran outside linebacker Calvin Pace is aging and could be challenged by Antwan Barnes. Barnes is a pass rush specialist who is coming off two injury plagued seasons.

Following an up and down rookie season, cornerback Dee Milliner is assured a starting spot, but depth behind him is a serious issue at this point. Journeyman defensive back Dimitri Patterson has been getting reps opposite Milliner at the start of camp with veteran Kyle Wilson playing the nickel back position. Wilson is in his 5th season but hasn’t developed into the player the team had hoped for after selecting him in the 1st round in 2010. He’s in the final year of his rookie contract. Behind him is a hodge podge of lesser veterans and rookies which includes this year’s 3rd round pick Dexter McDougal. McDougal was productive early in his college career at Maryland, but he suffered a serious shoulder injury in his final season.

Both safety positions are up for grabs as 1st round pick Calvin Pryor along with veterans Dwan Landry, Josh Bush, Antonio Allen, and Jaiquawn Jarrett fight for two starting spots.

The Jets face the Indianapolis Colts in their first preseason game at home in two weeks and will need to trim their roster to 70 players by that time.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Welcome to the dynasty reporting ranks my friend. I am very happy to see you trying your hand at it and really hope you enjoy.

Your writing is very good and I will definitely be following along. If you need help with anything always feel free to message me. My first dynasty report, which was one my favorites was very basic and I still had a blast with it. I hope you do as well!

Always my best.

Thanks for the warm welcome cheese! I may take you up on that offer at some point. I'm really enjoying your EMU dynasty. Thanks again for the kind words.

[BrandonRocket]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

I'll be following along too, as a New York Native (Giants fan, but still NY), interested to see what you do with the team.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

New York Jets Training Camp Roster
#	OFFENSE	POS	AGE	HT	WT	COLLEGE
7	Geno Smith (80)	QB	23	6'3	221	West Virginia
1	Michael Vick (71)	QB	34	6'1	215	Virginia Tech
3	Tajh Boyd (67)	QB	23	6'0	222	Clemson
5	Matt Simms (58)	QB	25	6'3	210	Tennessee
21	Chris Johnson (83)	HB	28	5'11	203	East Carolina
33	Chris Ivory (78)	HB	26	6'0	222	Tiffin
29	Bilal Powell (77)	HB	25	5'10	204	Louisville
23	Alex Green (73)	HB	24	6'0	220	Hawaii
35	Daryl Richardson (72)	HB	24	5'10	206	Abilene Christian
40	Tommy Bohanon (71)	FB	24	6'1	246	Wake Forest
87	Eric Decker (90)	WR	27	6'3	214	Minnesota
11	Jeremy Kerley (75)	WR	25	5'9	188	TCU
86	David Nelson (73)	WR	27	6'5	215	Florida
84	Stephen Hill (72)	WR	23	6'4	215	Georgia Tech
19	Jacoby Ford (70)	WR	27	5'9	190	Clemson
10	Clyde Gates (68)	WR	28	6'0	197	Abilene Christian
81	Shaq Evans (68)	WR	23	6'0	210	UCLA
17	Greg Salas (64)	WR	26	6'2	210	Hawaii
16	Jalen Saunders (63)	WR	21	5'9	164	Oklahoma
82	Quincy Enunwa (63)	WR	22	6'2	225	Nebraska
15	Saalim Hakim (51)	WR	24	5'11	188	N/A
88	Jace Amaro (77)	TE	22	6'5	260	Texas Tech
85	Jeff Cumberland (74)	TE	27	6'4	260	Illinois
44	Zach Sudfeld (69)	TE	25	6'7	260	Nevada
83	Chris Pantale (66)	TE	24	6'5	254	Boston College
46	Tanned Purdum (55)	TE	30	6'3	270	Baker
60	D'Brickashaw Ferguson (92)	LT	30	6'6	310	Virginia
71	Ben Ijalana (66)	LT	25	6'4	322	Villanova
67	Brian Winters (65)	LG	23	6'4	320	Kent St
74	Nick Mangold (85)	C	30	6'4	307	Ohio St
72	Caleb Schlauderaff (66)	C	26	6'4	302	Utah
66	Willie Colon (70)	RG	31	6'3	315	Hofstra
70	Dakota Dozier (63)	RG	23	6'4	312	Furman
68	Breno Giacomini (74)	RT	28	6'7	318	Louisville
75	Oday Aboushi (62)	RT	23	6'5	308	Virginia
76	Markus Zusevics (59)	RT	25	6'5	300	Iowa
65	William Campbell (62)	LG	23	6'4	311	Michigan
#	DEFENSE	POS	AGE	HT	WT	COLLEGE
96	Muhammad Wilkerson (97)	LE	24	6'4	315	Temple
78	Leger Douzable (73)	LE	28	6'4	284	UCF
92	Tevita Finau (66)	LE	28	6'5	288	Utah
91	Sheldon Richardson (89)	RE	23	6'3	294	Missouri
94	Damon Harrison (91)	DT	25	6'4	350	William Penn
93	Kenrick Ellis (78)	DT	26	6'4	346	Hampton
95	Antwan Barnes (78)	LOLB	29	6'1	251	FIU
97	Calvin Pace (70)	LOLB	33	6'4	265	Wake Forest
50	Garrett McIntyre (66)	LOLB	29	6'3	255	Fresno St
49	Trevor Reilly (64)	LOLB	26	6'5	225	Utah
52	David Harris (84)	MLB	30	6'2	250	Michigan
56	Demario Davis (74)	MLB	25	6'2	239	Arkansas St
54	Nick Bellore (68)	MLB	25	6'1	250	Central Michigan
53	Jeremiah George (66)	MLB	22	5'11	219	Iowa St
58	Troy Davis (61)	MLB	23	6'2	251	UCF
59	A.J. Edds (60)	MLB	26	6'4	256	Iowa
98	Quinton Coples (79)	ROLB	24	6'6	290	North Carolina
55	Jermaine Cunningham (68)	ROLB	26	6'3	255	Florida
57	Tim Fugger (66)	ROLB	25	6'4	248	Vanderbilt
51	Ik Enemkpali (66)	ROLB	23	6'1	272	LA. Tech
27	Dee Milliner (75)	CB	22	6'0	201	Alabama
20	Kyle Wilson (74)	CB	27	5'10	190	Boise St
24	Dimitri Patterson (74)	CB	31	6'0	200	Tuskegee
30	Darrin Walls (68)	CB	26	6'0	190	Notre Dame
34	Ras-I Dowling (67)	CB	26	6'1	210	Virginia
31	Ellis Lankster (67)	CB	27	5'9	190	West Virginia
43	Dexter McDougle (65)	CB	23	5'10	196	Maryland
42	Brandon Dixon (65)	CB	24	6'0	200	NW Missouri St
22	Johnny Patrick (64)	CB	26	5'11	190	Louisville
39	Antonio Allen (77)	FS	25	6'1	210	South Carolina
37	Jaiquawn Jarrett (73)	FS	24	6'0	196	Temple
25	Calvin Pryor (75)	SS	22	6'2	208	Louisville
26	Dawan Landry (70)	SS	31	6'1	212	Georgia Tech
32	Josh Bush (69)	SS	25	5'11	205	Wake Forest
#	SPECIAL TEAMS	POS	AGE	HT	WT	COLLEGE
2	Nick Folk (84)	K	29	6'1	222	Arizona
4	Ryan Quigley (69)	P	24	6'3	188	Boston College

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

I'll be following along too, as a New York Native (Giants fan, but still NY), interested to see what you do with the team.

Thanks for checking in. I see you just started a Lions chise, good luck with it, looking good so far.

[DrGravyBoat]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Excited to so what you can do, I'll be along for the ride.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Jets add two veterans to bolster camp competition

Jets Blog
SNY.TV
Matt Cosci July 25th 2014

Just five days into their 2014 training camp the Jets have announced the signing of two players in what Jets General Manager John Idzik called, “moves to create greater competition along our front lines.” During the morning practice Idzik was seen speaking to owner Mark Murphy for nearly the entire session as Murphy has become a fixture at each Jets practice this summer. Later in the afternoon, the Jets came to terms with free agent guard Daryn Colledge and defensive tackle Landon Cohen.



Colledge will likely compete for the left guard position alongside second year pros Brian Winters and William Campbell. Drafted by Green Bay in the 2nd round in 2006 out of Boise State, Colledge (32) spent his first 5 years with the Packers and earned a Super Bowl ring with the team in 2010. Following the 2010 season, Colledge signed a 5 year contract with the Arizona Cardinals, but became a cap casualty earlier this spring and contemplated retirement. John Idzik noted the 8 year veteran’s pass blocking ability, versatility, and durability as the Jets and Colledge agreed to a 1 year contract worth $1.24 million.



With just two nose tackles listed on their roster, the Jets signed former Chicago Bear Landon Cohen to a 1 year deal worth $730,000. This is Cohen’s sixth different team since being drafted out of Ohio in the 7th round in 2008 by the Detroit Lions. Head Coach Rex Ryan commented on the 6 year pro saying, “He’s a big strong guy who fits well in what we do with our 0-technique. A guy who has bounced around the league like that is hungry for a roster spot so we expect him to bring it!”

The Jets also announced today that their annual “Green & White” scrimmage will be held on Saturday August 2nd, at 7:15 pm at SUNY Cortland and will be open to the public.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Just a note to those following along. My next post will be quite lengthy. I went back and forth on whether or not to include this storyline or stick to the bare bones as this is my first crack at this, but as you might have noticed I like to write so I decided to include it. If it doesn't work I'll nix it, but I think it can add to what I'm doing here.

[gamerMark]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

"A Rip Off"

Friday July 26, 2014 9:15 am

He stood barefoot in his office rummaging through boxes that had not yet been unpacked. “There they are,” Mark Murphy mumbled as he pulled out a package of cotton balls. He could now commence in his weekly ritual of shinning his shoes. It was a practice that started during his days in New London as a cadet. Life at the academy was rigorous, particularly for athletes and at the time proved to be something of a therapy for him. It allowed him to clear his mind and relax. Murphy sat down behind a great big oak desk that once belonged to his uncle and his great uncle before him, and began. Then a knock at the door, “Yes,” he answered annoyed. It was his secretary Mary Tucci who had worked for Murphy for the last 10 years, “Mr. Murphy, Mr. Jordan Correll is here to see you.” Murphy jumped from his chair looking for his socks, “send him in Mary.”

Jordan Correll was a longtime friend of Murphy’s. They grew up together in Miller Place, a small affluent town on the north shore of Long Island. Jordan’s upbringing wasn’t typical of the rest of his peers. His family was dirt poor and he was one of only three African Americans in the school district. He lacked the advantage of money growing up, but he was blessed with something that proved to be much more valuable, he was extremely intelligent. An underachiever in high school, Correll went on the graduate top of his class at SUNY Albany and later earned a master’s of Mathematics in Finance from NYU. He is currently working as an actuary for ING in Manhattan.

Mark Murphy had his own unusual upbringing as he was the son of an Episcopal Priest. One of four children, he and his family lived at the rectory on the church property in town. He wasn’t destitute or a minority like Correll, but like his friend he was not afforded the same luxuries that their classmates enjoyed. This somewhat shared experience is what forged their close relationship.

Earlier in the week Murphy had his private currier deliver a package to Correll’s home. In it contained all the financials of the Jets and a request for his friend to review the material. Murphy had already had his accountants look over these documents, but he wanted Correll, whose analytical sense was second to none, to give him his take on the state of the franchise.

Correll walked in and his eyes where immediately drawn to Murphy’s feet, he had not found his socks. Then Correll’s eyes wandered in search for the shoe shinning kit he knew couldn’t be far. “Are you serious man?” Correll said with a laugh, “You’re a billionaire and you still shine your own shoes?”

"Maybe I should pay someone to shine that bald skull of yours," Murphy replied as he embraced his friend with a hug. Correll had gone bald in his early twenties and had a clean shaven head. He stands tall at 6'2", well built, and by all accounts very handsome. The two were like brothers and never passed up an opportunity to take shots at one another.

"Here, take a seat buddy," Murphy said as he gestured to a lavish brown leather chair.

Correll quickly took in his surroundings and assessed his friend’s new office before he sat down. A few feet behind Murphy’s desk stood a large table with the boxes he had just been going through. Above it was an enormous blank white board that reminded Correll of the lecture halls he sat in at NYU. The wall behind Correll was dominated by a 70 inch television. To his left were windows that stretched from floor to ceiling that over looked the three outdoor practice fields. Unimpressed by the billionaires work space Correll looked for something to comment on, "This must be the desk you told me about."

Murphy began to sit down, "Sure is, dates back to the 1900's."

"You know what they say about men with oversized desk's right?" Correll said, taking his seat with a smirk.

Murphy knew this was a shot at his manhood so he quickly replied, "yeah, the same thing they say about men who drive Porsche's."

Correll's head shot back as he was the proud owner of a Cayman GTS, "damn Murph, after watching that presser I thought you lost your edge, guess not."

Murphy was not always the stern, tight lipped person that he had led on to be in his press conference. The casual Murphy was laid back, enjoyed busting chops and dirty jokes. He would fit right in at the local firehouse. He had a way of communicating that endeared him to his workers at the mill and the crew members of the Jayhawk he piloted. Then there was the conference room Murphy, who was calculating and expeditious, mostly because he hated meetings and wanted them to end quickly.

Murphy explained, "I'm still the same guy I've always been, but right now our season ticket holders need to have confidence in ownership. If I went out there and started dropping f-bombs the media would go nuts and probably paint me as some sorta Dan Snyder-Rex Ryan hybrid.”

Correll nodded in agreement, "Who’s Dan Snyder?”

Murphy was eager to get down to business and ignored his friend’s silly question, “Speaking of season tickets, what did you think of the package I sent you?"

Correll sat back in the deep chair and crossed his legs, humored in the billionaire’s apparent neediness, “I think you have people on your payroll to do this.”

“I do,” Murphy admitted, “but I still have a lot of holdovers around here and I’m sure they’re sweeping s--- under the rug to keep their jobs.”

Correll uncrossed his legs and leaned forward, “well it sounds like you’re already are aware of the problem.”

Murphy was diehard fan of the Jets and a season ticket holder for seven years until 2010. Following the 2013 season, reports began to surface that some season ticket customers were in danger of defaulting on their PSL’s. The Jets, as well as the Giants, established Personal Seat Licensing to help finance construction of the $1.6 billion MetLife Stadium which the teams shared. Murphy despised this as a fan and refused to pay for the “right” to purchase season tickets. Being aware of this issue made little difference in his decision to purchase the team, but now he needed to know the extent of the problem as the reports had quickly disappeared from the headlines. He had a statement prepared to address this issue in his press conference, but surprisingly the question never came.

Murphy cleared his throat, “what can you tell me about it?”

Correll began, “by my estimation there are over 1100 agreements in threat of default. Right now a $60,000 PSL is up for sale for $20,000. A $30,000 package of 4 coaches’ club seats behind the bench is going for 12,000. Fans can’t get rid of them. The value of your mid-level seats is even worse. I hate to break it to you man, but your PLS’s right now are a crap investment.”

“A rip off,” Murphy said chuckling while remembering back to one of the reports that quoted a 30 year season ticket holder saying such.

Surprised by Murphy’s reaction Correll continued with concern in his voice, “I’m glad you can find humor in this but that’s not all. The prices for actual tickets in the lower bowl and mezzanine sections on secondary markets were going for a 70% discount last season.”

Correll wasn’t a sports fan, it never interested him. The one sport he played was golf and he wasn’t half bad, but he knew next to nothing about the NFL. Knowing this about his friend, Murphy found some amusement in his worry. “Jordan relax, there’s a simple solution to all of this.”

“Oh yeah, what’s that?” Correll asked as he sat back in his chair.

“We have to win. The Giants don’t have this problem and it’s because they just won a Super Bowl a couple of years ago. Winning in the NFL makes a lot of problem go away.”

Visibly annoyed Correll asked, “So then why the hell did you ask me to look into this for you if you already have the answer?

Murphy gestured by raising his hand slightly off his desk, “Settle down buddy, I still need your help. While I’m working on getting a winning product on the field, I need someone to find a short term solution to our PSL issue. Someone smart and creative like yourself.”

With a hint of defiance in his voice Correll said, “You want me to work for you?”

Knowing he needed to tread lightly with his prideful friend Murphy responded, “We’d like you to join our team as a financial consultant. We can really use you here.”

“Stop with the ‘we’ sh—alright,” Correll said, “I’m always willing to help, but I’m not going to work for you.”

Murphy expected resistance from his friend and didn’t want to push it. “Well I would appreciate your help any way I can get it, sorry if I offended you.”

With a sudden change in demeanor and a big smile Correll replied, “No worries Murph, so what’s the end game?”

Murphy emphatically said, “To get rid of the PSL’s completely.”

A surprised Correll asked, “Aren’t PSL’s standard procedure around the league?”

The question indicated to Murphy that his friend went much further in his analysis than what was supplied to him. “Yep, and that’s why I want to get rid of them. It is a rip off and our fans deserve better.”

“Murph the trailblazer!” Correll said jokingly.

Murphy then got up from his chair, “Listen I have this d--- marketing meeting I have to get to, but why don’t you stick around, go for a walk and check the place out. When I’m done we can hit up lunch before I head back to Cortland. One good thing Woody did was build this place, it’s worth a look. Besides, we need to catch up on family.”

“Sounds good Murph,” Correll said, “One other thing real quick, why the hell are you guys $30 million plus under the salary cap?”

Murphy had included the team’s salary cap information in the package he sent hoping his friend would show interest and his question confirmed that he did. Satisfied, Murphy told him, “that’s problem number two, meet back here in thirty, ok?”

As Correll exited the office, Jets General Manager John Idzik came walking down the hall behind him. Correll entered the elevator and the door closed. Idzik made his way to Mary Tucci’s desk and in a low voice asked Mary, “Who was that...?”

[Cheese2121]

Re: Piloting the Jets: A Madden Franchise

Absolutely love this man. The integration of a solid storyline along with the financial in's and out's is really cool.

Very good writing. I hope you keep incorporating this sort of thing!