Yeah, I've considered taking the awareness down on many of the recent additions but only done it once or twice. I think a couple of times to guys who just signed one year contracts but were rated high still.
I usually take awareness down 50 points - so it's easy to remember and I can put it right back lol - and then change it back after signing them.
But, you're right - each year you either have to drop the rookies ratings you put on (then raise 'em back), make 'em a punter then change 'em back or release a recently signed guy or two and do it to them instead.
I don't understand why EA puts a salary cap on a roster that's not being taken into CFM. That, and "minimum roster" requirements SUCK lol. They themselves can do it - have no FB, just one FS or SS or C or MLB or whatever, but we can't... even if you don't play on taking that roster into a CFM. Makes zero sense and is a hassle and frustrating.
Then again, I'm old school and miss the "SEASON MODE", just being able to take a roster straight into a ONE YEAR mode, not preseason and doing cuts and all that mess.