[OJsakila]

I'm not certain but I don't think having progressive fatigue ON effects the cpu. The cpu isn't starting backups in the playoffs.

Progressive Fatigue only seems to effect the HUM player. Just by using 1/2 pads and trying to get the backups in for practice time the last half the season is about all you would need to do to keep your starters fresh late in the season.
Was it not this way last year? And I don't think the real NFL is hitting hard in full pads during the late season anyways... It takes nearly all week to recoup from the last game's physical toll. These guys aren't practicing in real life in full pads late in the season.

It does appear that you need to go thru this process (literally takes 2 minutes) to be able to utilize Progressive Fatigue.

If you're not into the tedious little adjustments, you can always just turn it off. That's a good option for players that just want to play ball and not spend time tweaking ... I get it.