Way-Too-Early Madden 21 Power Rankings
by ESPNdaOcho | 4 years ago | 0 Comments
1. Baltimore Ravens
2019 Record: 14-2
Additions: Calais Campbell (DL), Derek Wolfe (DE), D.J. Fluker (G)
Departures: Domata Petko (DT), Brandon Carr (CB), Toby Jefferson (S), Josh Bynes (LB), Hayden Hurst (TE), Patrick Onwuasor (LB), Seth Roberts (WR), Chris Wormley (DL)
NFL Draft: 1-28: Patrick Queen, LB (LSU) 2-55: J.K. Dobbins, RB (Ohio State) 3-71: DT Justin Madubuike, DT (Texas A&M): 3-92: Devin Duvernay, WR (Texas) 3-98: Malik Harrison, LB (Ohio State) 3-106: Tyre Phillips, OL (Mississippi State) 4-143: Ben Bredeson, G (Michigan): 5-170: Broderick Washington Jr., DT (Texas Tech): 6-201: James Proche, WR (SMU): 7-219: Geno Stone, S (Iowa)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Lamar Jackson. He is quite possibly the best player in the game. Having that with a rookie HB, one of the fastest WRs in the game, and a great defense makes this the best squad.
2. Kansas City Chiefs
2019 Record: 12-4
Additions: Taco Charlton (EDGE), Mike Remmers (OL), DeAndre Washington (RB), Ricky Seals-Jones (TE)
Departures: Terrell Suggs (EDGE), Lesean McCoy (RB), Darron Lee (LB), Morris Claiborne (CB), Matt Moore (QB), Spencer Ware (RB), Cameron Erving (T), Blake Bell (TE), Emmanuel Ogbah (EDGE), Reggie Ragland (LB), Kendall Fuller (CB), Stefen Wisniewski (G)
NFL Draft: 1-32: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB (LSU) 2-63: Willie Gay Jr., LB (Mississippi State) 3-96: Lucas Niang, OT (TCU) 4-138: L’Jarius Sneed, S (Louisiana Tech) 5-177: Mike Danna, DE (Michigan) 7-237: Thakarius Keyes, CB (Tulane)
How does this team look for Madden 21? With the Chiefs, it comes down to how good you are passing the ball. This team is not made to be an elite rushing squad, so if that’s your style, etiher: look elsewhere or make some blockbuster moves.
However, with Mahomes, Hill, Mecole, Watkins, and Kelce, you will be putting up points. Unfortunately, losing Kendall Fuller does hurt, though not enough to knock them from top tier.
3. San Francisco 49ers
2019 Record: 13-3
Additions: Travis Benjamin (WR), Kerry Hyder (DL), Tom Compton (OL)
Departures: DeForest Buckner (DT), Joe Staley (T), Mike Person (OL), Sheldon Day (DT), Matt Brieda (RB), Marquise Goodwin (WR), Levine Toilolo (TE), Emmanuel Sanders (WR)
NFL Draft: 1-14: Javon Kinlaw, DT (South Carolina) 1-25: Brandon Aiyuk, WR (Arizona State) 5-153: Colton McKivitz, T (West Virginia) 6-190: Charlie Woerner, TE (Georgia) 7-217: Jauan Jennings, WR (Tennessee)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The main issue with the 49ers is that Jimmy G is not a tempting Madden QB.
Everything else is right there for this team to be amazing, but Jimmy G and the lack of top WR talent keeps it out of that 1 or 2 spot.
4. Cleveland Browns
2019 Record: 6-10
Additions: Case Keenum (QB), Chris Hubbard (T), Jack Conklin (T), Kevin Johnson (CB), Karl Joseph (S), Andy Janovich (FB), Andrew Sendejo (S), Andrew Billings (DT), Austin Hooper (TE), Adrian Clayborn (DL)
Departures: Demetrius Harris (TE), Ricky Seals-Jones (TE), Joe Schobert (LB), Christian Kirksey (LB), Justin Burris (S), Damarious Randall (S), Eric Kush (OL), Eric Murray (S), Will Parks (S), T.J. Carrie
NFL Draft: 1-10: Jedrick Wills, T (Alabama) 2-44: Grant Delpit, S (LSU) 3-88: Jordan Elliott, LB (Missouri) 3-97: Jacob Phillips, LB (LSU) 4-115: Harrison Bryant, TE (Florida Atlantic) 6-187: Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR (Michigan)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Mixed results in real life, but still an elite Madden squad. Getting some OL additions to add to solid defensive improvements makes this squad look good.
Of course, you will still have OBJ, Landry, Baker, and Chubb. However, now you have Hooper, new OTs, Karl Joseph, and one of the best DB prospects in Grant Delpit.
5. Arizona Cardinals
2019 Record: 5-10-1
Additions: DeAndre Hopkins (WR), Devon Kennard (LB), Jordan Phillips (DT), De’Vondre Campbell (EDGE)
Departures: David Johnson (RB), Rodney Gunter (DL), Cassius Marsh (EDGE), Zach Kerr (DL), Pharoh Cooper (KR), Damiere Byrd (WR)
NFL Draft: 1-8: Isaiah Simmons, LB (Clemson) 3-72: Josh Jones, T (Houston) 4-114: Leki Fotu, DT (Utah) 4-131: Rashard Lawrence, DT (LSU) 6-202: Evan Weaver, LB (Cal) 7-222: Eno Benjamin, RB (Arizona State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? This team probably represents the biggest difference between IRL power rankings and Madden power rankings.
This team will be explosive offensively in Madden. Kyler was already enough to take a chance on this team, but having Isabella and DHop just adds to it. The defense and OL still could be improved, but adding elite LB prospect Isaiah Simmons will be enough for some users to pull the trigger early.
6. New Orleans Saints
2019 Record: 13-3
Additions: Emmanuel Sanders (WR), Malcolm Jenkins (S), Jameis Winston (QB), Margus Hunt (DL), Michael Burton (FB)
Departures: Larry Warford (G), Eli Apple (CB), Ted Ginn (WR), Vonn Bell (S), Teddy Bridgewater (QB), Keith Kirkwood (WR)
NFL Draft: 1-24: Cesar Ruiz, C (Michigan) 3-74: Zack Baun, OLB (Wisconsin) 3-105: Adam Trautman, TE (Dayton) 7-240: Tommy Stevens, QB (Mississippi State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Honestly, Jameis Winston helps the long-term potential of this team.
This was an elite squad that should win a lot of games Year 1, but having a safety valve for Brees really helps rank this team high up.
7. Dallas Cowboys
2019 Record: 8-8
Additions: Andy Dalton (QB), Dontari Poe (DT), Gerald McCoy (DT), Cameron Erving (T), Daryl Worley (CB), HaHa Clinton-Dix (S), Greg Zuerlein (K), Blake Bell (TE), Maurice Canaday (CB),
Departures: Tavon Austin (WR), Kerry Hyder (DL), Robert Quinn (EDGE), Xavier Su’a-Filo (G), Byron Jones (CB), Cameron Fleming (T), Jason Witten (TE), Jeff Heath (S), Maliek Collins (DL), Randall Cobb (WR), Christian Covington (DL)
NFL Draft: 1-17: CeeDee Lamb, WR (Oklahoma) 2-51: Trevon Diggs, CB (Alabama) 3-82: Neville Gallimore, DT (Oklahoma) 4-123: Reggie Robinson III, CB (Tulsa) 4-146: Tyler Biadasz, C (Wisconsin) 5-179: Bradlee Anae, DE (Utah) 7-231: Ben DiNucci, QB (James Madison)
How does this team look for Madden 21? We all know Madden loves to overrate the Cowboys in game, so this will almost always be a good team to start out with.
The issue might be if Dak gets paid too much, it might ruin teambuilding long-term. However, getting CeeDee Lamb only makes the offense better and with the defense staying steady, even after losing Byron Jones, you should be good to start M21 with Mike McCarthy’s job.
8. Buffalo Bills
2019 Record: 10-6
Additions: Josh Norman (CB), Stefon Diggs (WR), Mario Addison (EDGE), Daryl Williams (OL), A.J. Klein (LB), Vernon Butler (DL), Quinton Jefferson (DL), Taiwan Jones (RB)
Departures: Lorenzo Alexander (LB), Kevin Johnson (CB), Jordan Phillips (DT), Shaq Lawson (EDGE), Frank Gore (RB)
NFL Draft: 2-54: AJ Epenesa, DE (Iowa): 3-86: Zack Moss, RB (Utah) 4-128: Gabriel Davis, WR (UCF): 5-167: Jake Fromm, QB (Georgia): 6-188: Tyler Bass, K (Georgia Southern): 6-207: Isaiah Hodgins, WR (Oregon State): 7-239: Dane Jackson, CB (Pittsburgh)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Best team in the AFC East. They have a lot to be excited about and while you might think Josh Allen is trash, he could still be a great Madden QB in the right hands.
If the right user gets this team, I do not know if anyone else will win that division this cycle.
9. Atlanta Falcons
2019 Record: 7-9
Additions: Dante Fowler Jr. (EDGE), Chris Harris (EDGE), Hayden Hurst (TE), LaRoy Reynolds (OLB), Laquon Treadwell (WR), Todd Gurley (RB)
Departures: Austin Hooper (TE), Adrian Clayborn (DL), De’Vondre Campbell (EDGE), Wes Schweitzer (G), Ty Sambrillo (T), Vic Beasley (EDGE), Devonta Freeman (RB)
NFL Draft: 1-16: A.J. Terrell, CB (Clemson) 2-47: Marlon Davidson, DT (Auburn) 3-78: Matt Hennessy, C (Temple) 4-119: Mykal Walker, LB (Fresno State) 4-134: Jaylinn Hawkins, S (California) 7-228: Sterling Hofrichter, K (Syracuse)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The Falcons are a team that will look nice in Madden due to a few players. Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, and their speedy defense will make them top choices. Also, let’s not forget about Gurley.
While a good bunch, I think they lack enough elite talent to be a true top tier option (especially considering age).
10. Miami Dolphins
2019 Record: 5-11
Additions: Kyle Van Noy (LB), Ereck Flowers (G), Shaq Lawson (EDGE), Byron Jones (CB), Emmanuel Ogbah (EDGE), Jordan Howard (RB), Ted Karras (C), Clayton Fejedelem (S), Matt Brieda (RB)
Departures: Reshad Jones (S), Aqib Talib (CB), John Jenkins (OLB), Samaje Perine (RB), Charles Harris (EDGE)
NFL Draft: 1-5: Tua Tagovailoa, QB (Alabama): 1-18: Austin Jackson, T (Miami) 1-30: Noah Igbinoghene, CB (Auburn) 2-39: Robert Hunt, OL (Louisiana) 2-56: Raekwon Davis, DL (Alabama): Brandon Jones, S (Texas): 4-111: Solomon Kindley, OL (Georgia) 5-154: Jason Strowbridge, DT (UNC): 5-164: Curtis Weaver, DE (Boise State): 6-185: Blake Ferguson, LS (LSU): 7-246: Malcolm Perry, WR/RB (Navy) 7-251: Stephen Sullivan, TE (LSU)
How does this team look for Madden 21? This is one of the most interesting and exciting teams for Madden 21. Going into Madden 20, this was easily one of the worst teams to start with. Flores had gutted the team, but it looks like it might be working out, even if that is just virtually.
Just looking at the additions make this time intriguing enough. Tua, Byron Jones, Jordan Howard, and Matt Breida. This team already had 2 top LB prospects in Jerome Baker and Raekwon McMillan (they also got Kamu Grugier-Hill) and a solid CB in Xavien Howard. I would stop at saying this team can compete immediately since the OL and WR core is still rough, but it is a top project squad for a savvy user.
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2019 Record: 7-9
Additions: Tom Brady (QB), Joe Haeg (G), Rob Gronkowski (TE)
Departures: Jameis Winston (QB), Breshad Perriman (WR), Carl Nassib (DL), Beau Allen (DT), Peyton Barber (RB)
NFL Draft: 1-13: Tristan Wirfs, T (Iowa) 2-45: Antoine Winfield Jr., S (Minnesota) 3-76: Ke’Shawn Vaughn, RB (Vanderbilt) 5-161: Tyler Johnson, WR (Minnesota) 6-194: Khalil Davis, DT (Nebraska) 7-241: Chapelle Russell, OLB (Temple) 7-245: Raymond Calais, RB (LSU)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Tom Brady. That is it, I don’t think I need to write more.
In all seriousness, while this team can/will be top tier Year 1, you will NEED to have strategy after that because you will have no one to use at QB if you do not draft, sign, or trade for someone.
12. Green Bay Packers
2019 Record: 13-3
Additions: Devin Funchess (WR), Christian Kirksey (LB), Ricky Wagner (T)
Departures: Jimmy Graham (TE), B.J. Goodson (LB), Bryan Baluga (T), Kyler Fackrell (EDGE), Blake Martinez (LB), Geronimo Allison (WR), Dan Vitale (FB), Ibraheim Campbell (S)
NFL Draft: 1-26: Jordan Love, QB (Utah State) 2-62: A.J. Dillon, RB (Boston College) 3-94: Josiah Deguara, TE (Cincinnati) 5-175: Kamal Martin, LB (Minnesota) 6-192: Jon Runyan, G (Michigan) 6-208: Jake Hanson, C (Oregon) 6-209: Simon Stepaniak, T (Indiana) 7-236: Vernon Scott, S (TCU) 7-242: Jonathan Garvin, DE (Miami)
How does this team look for Madden 21? This team was a good squad to start with in Madden 20 and still is right now. The offense is really well constructed, you have a backup QB to develop or trade, have 3 good young DBs to pair with an elite DL in Kenny Clark.
Not much to say other than you shouldn’t be upset if you ended up with this team.
13. Pittsburgh Steelers
2019 Record: 8-8
Additions: Eric Ebron (TE), Stefen Wisniewski (G), Chris Wormley (DL), Derek Watt (FB), Breon Borders (CB)
Departures: Artie Burns (CB), Tyler Matakevich (LB), Nick Vannett (TE), Roosevelt Nix (FB), Javon Hargrave (DT), Sean Davis (S), B.J. Finney (C)
NFL Draft: 2-49: Chase Claypool, WR (Notre Dame) 3-102: Alex Highsmith, OLB (Charlotte) 4-124: Anthony McFarland Jr., RB (Maryland) 4-135: Kevin Dotson, G (Louisiana) 6-198: Antoine Brooks Jr., S (Maryland) 7-232: Carlos Davis, DT (Nebraska)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The Steelers have a weird mix of old and young. They have drafted well recently and received really good players in JuJu, TJ Watt, Devin Bush, while trading for Minkah Fitzpatrick.
The issue is a lot of their core players like Haden, Cam Heyward, and Roethlisberger are on the way out. This team could compete early, but then struggle unless you are able to get replacements ASAP.
14. Denver Broncos
2019 Record: 7-9
Additions: Jurrell Casey (DL), A.J. Bouye (CB), Melvin Gordon (RB), Nick Vannett (TE), Graham Glasgow (G), Christian Covington (DL)
Departures: Joe Flacco (QB), Ronald Leary (G), Andy Janovich (FB), Chris Harris Jr. (CB), Connor McGovern (C), Devontae Booker (RB), Derek Wolfe (DE)
NFL Draft: 1-15: Jerry Jeudy, WR (Alabama) 2-46: K.J. Hamler, WR (Penn 3-77: Michael Ojemudia, CB (Iowa) 3-83: Lloyd Cushenberry, C (LSU) 3-95: McTelvin Agim, DL (Arkansas) 4-118: Albert Okwuegbunam, TE (Missouri) 5-178: Justin Strnad, LB (Wake Forest) 6-181: Netane Muti, G (Fresno State) 7-252: Tyrie Cleveland, WR (Florida) 7-254: Derrek Tuszka, LB (North Dakota State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? There is a lot to like about the direction of this team. They had some of the most high profile additions this offseason. They were able to snag Jurrell Casey, AJ Bouye, and Melvin Gordon. Not to mention, stealing Jerry Jeudy and speedster KJ Hamler in the draft.
Adding all those to a team that had weapons in Courtland Sutton and Noah Fant is awesome. There are still some questions on the OL, but I should be fun for anyone to start with this team and make Drew Lock into a monster.
15. Philadelphia Eagles
2019 Record: 9-7
Additions: Darius Slay (WR), Marqise Goodwin (WR), Nickell Robey-Coleman (CB), Javon Hargrave (DT), Jatavis Brown (OLB), Will Parks (S)
Departures: Jason Peters (T), Nigel Bradham (LB), Josh McCown (QB), Darren Sproles (RB), Jordan Howard (RB), Kamu Grugier-Hill (OLB), Halapoulivaati Vaitai (T), Nelson Agholor (WR), Ronald Darby (CB), Malcolm Jenkins (S), Timmy Jernigan (DT)
NFL Draft: 1-21: Jalen Reagor, WR (TCU) 2-53: Jalen Hurts, QB (Oklahoma) 3-103: Davion Taylor, LB (Colorado) 4-127: K’Von Wallace, S (Clemson) 4-145: Jack Driscoll, G (Auburn) 5-168: John Hightower, WR (Boise State) 6-196: Shaun Bradley, LB (Temple) 6-200: Quez Watkins, WR (Southern Miss) 6-210: Prince Tega Wanogho, T (Auburn) 7-233: Casey Toohill, DE (Stanford)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Getting Darius Slay with nice, but losing Jason Peters, Kamu Grugier-Hill, Ronald Darby, and Malcolm Jenkins hurts.
I think I am lower on this group than a lot of folks, but unless you are able to turn the Wentz/Hurts situation into gold, I have doubts on the long-term health of this team.
16. Seattle Seahawks
2019 Record: 11-5
Additions: Greg Olsen (TE), Bruce Irvin (EDGE), Quinton Dunbar (CB), B.J. Finney (C), Mike Iupati (G), Phillip Dorsett (WR), Cedric Ogbuehi (T), Brandon Shell (T)
Departures: Justin Britt (C), Ziggy Ansah (DL), Mychal Kendricks (LB), Marshawn Lynch (RB), Josh Gordon (WR), C.J. Procise (RB), Germain Ifedi (T), Al Woods (DT), George Fant (T), D.J. Fluker (G)
NFL Draft: 1-27: Jordyn Brooks, LB (Texas Tech) 2-48: Darrell Taylor, OLB (Tennessee) 3-69: Damien Lewis, G (LSU) 4-133: Colby Parkinson, TE (Stanford) 4-144: DeeJay Dallas, RB (Miami) 5-148: Alton Robinson, DE (Syracuse) 6-214: Freddie Swain, WR (Florida)
How does this team look for Madden 21? With a lot of these rankings, you are taking a team for a player or a colleciton of players. With the Seahawks, those players are Russell Wilson and DK Metcalf.
Outside of those, you have to hope you can harness the power of the speedy defense to be successful.
The defense is a good unit, but it is unclear how nice the evaluators will be toward those players.
17.Tennessee Titans
2019 Record: 9-7
Additions: Nick Dzubnar (LB), Ty Sambrailo (T), Vic Beasley (EDGE), Jack Crawford (DT), Ibraheim Campbell (S), Jonathan Joseph (CB)
Departures: Logan Ryan (CB), Delanie Walker (TE), Tramaine Brock (CB), LeShaun Sims (CB), Kevin Pamphile (G), Cameron Wake (EDGE), Jurrell Casey (DT), Jack Conklin (T), Dion Lewis (RB), Austin Johnson (DL), Marcus Mariota (QB), Tajae Sharpe (WR)
NFL Draft: 1-29: Isaiah Wilson, T (Georgia) 2-61: Kristian Fulton, CB (LSU) 3-93: Darrynton Evans, RB (Appalachian State) 5-174: Larrell Murchison, DT (N.C. State): Signed 7-224: Cole McDonald, QB (Hawaii) 7-243: Chris Jackson, S (Marshall)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The ranking of this team depends on how generous Madden is to many of its players. However, if you are taking this team, you are not doing it because you plan to air out the ball. You are running 20-30 times a game with Derrick Henry.
18. Indianapolis Colts
2019 Record: 7-9
Additions: Philip Rivers (QB), Xavier Rhodes (CB), T.J. Carrie (CB), DeForest Buckner (DT), Roosevelt Nix (FB), Sheldon Day (DT)
Departures: Joe Haeg (G), Pierre Desir (CB), Quincy Wilson (DB), Devin Funchess (WR), Margus Hunt (DL), Eric Ebron (TE)
NFL Draft: 2-34: Michael Pittman, WR (USC) 2-41: Jonathan Taylor, RB (Wisconsin) 3-85: Julian Blackmon, S (Utah) 4-122: Jacob Eason, QB (Washington) 5-149: Danny Pinter, G (Ball State): Signed 6-193: Robert Windsor, DT (Penn State): Signed 6-211: Isaiah Rodgers, CB (UMass): Signed 6-212: Dezmon Patmon, WR (Washington State): Signed 6-213: Jordan Glasgow, S (Michigan)
How does this team look for Madden 21? This is a boom-or-bust squad. They invested in older players like Philip Rivers and Xavier Rhodes, but in Madden terms, these players are not ideal.
This team still has a nice young core. They have 3 solid HBs with the addition of draft pick Jonathan Taylor, one of the best OLs in the game, good WRs, and a youthful defense with veterans (Houston & Buckner) at key positions.
19. Los Angeles Chargers
2019 Record: 5-11
Additions: Brian Baluga (T), Linval Joseph (DT), Chris Harris Jr. (CB), Nick Vigil (LB), Darius Jennings (WR)
Departures: Michael Schofield (OL), Melvin Gordon (RB), Geremy Davis (WR), Jaylen Watkins (DB), Philip Rivers (QB), Adrian Phillips (S), Jativis Brown (LB), Derek Watt (FB), Travis Benjamin (WR), Thomas Davis Sr. (LB), Nick Dzubnar (LB)
NFL Draft: 1-6: Justin Herbert, QB (Oregon) 1-23: Kenneth Murray, LB (Oklahoma) 4-112: Joshua Kelley, RB (UCLA) 5-151: Joe Reed, WR (Virginia) 6-186: Alohi Gilman, S (Notre Dame) 7-220: K.J. Hill, WR (Ohio State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? This is actually a solid team to start with in Madden. Any time you can get a solid defense, a rookie 1st round QB, and a good receiving group, you are not unhappy.
I honestly think a user could compete with this team Year 1. This is enough given the DB core (CHJ, Hayward, & Derwin), pass rush (Bosa & Ingram), and user LB options in Kenneth Murray and Drue Tranquill.
20. Washington Redskins
2019 Record: 3-13
Additions: Kyle Allen (QB), Peyton Barber (RB), Sean Davis (DB), Thomas Davis Sr. (LB), Kendall Fuller (DB), J.D. McKissic (RB), Wes Schweitzer (G), Logan Thomas (TE), Jeremy Vujnovich (OL)
Departures: Michael Burton (FB), Ereck Flowers (G), Case Keenum (QB), Colt McCoy (QB)
NFL Draft: 1-2: Chase Young, DE (Ohio State) 3-66: Antonio Gibson, RB (Memphis) 4-108: Saahdiq Charles, OT (LSU) 4-142: Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR (Liberty) 5-156: Keith Ismael, C (San Diego State) 5-162: Khaleke Hudson, LB (Michigan) 7-216: Kamren Curl, S (Arkansas) 7-229: James-Smith Williams, DE (N.C. State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? I will be honest, I slept on this team a lot. I looked at the Skins and thought they would be the worst of the worst just on reputation. However, in Madden, you are running this team and not Dan Snyder.
Of course, the big addition here is Chase Young who should be Myles Garrett/Joey Bosa level of pass rushing by Year 2 (at worst). However, that DL is possibly one of the best in the game to start, you retain Landon Collins and add Kendall Fuller back, and maintain a very devable QB, HB, WR situation. Sure, losing Trent Williams hurts, but there are worse starts for Madden 21 on this list.
21. Minnesota Vikings
2019 Record: 10-6
Additions: Anthony Zettel (DE), Tajae Sharpe (WR)
Departures: Everson Griffen (EDGE), Josh Kline (G), Trae Waynes (CB), Mackensie Alexander (CB), Stefon Diggs (WR), Andrew Sendejo (S), Linval Joseph (DT), Laquon Treadwell (WR), Jayron Kearse (S), Stephen Weatherly (DL)
NFL Draft: 1-22: Justin Jefferson, WR (LSU) 1-31: Jeff Gladney, CB (TCU) 2-58: Ezra Cleveland, OT (Boise State) 3-89: Cameron Dantzler, CB (Mississippi State) 4-117: D.J. Wonnum, DE (South Carolina) 4-130: James Lynch, DT (Baylor) 4-132: Troy Dye, OLB (Oregon) 5-169: Harrison Hand, CB (Temple) 5-176: K.J. Osborn, WR (Miami) 6-201: Blake Brandel, T (Oregon State) 6-203: Josh Metellus, S (Michigan) 7-225: Kenny Willekes, DE (Michigan State) 7-244: Nate Stanley, QB (Iowa) 7-249: Brian Cole II, S (Mississippi State) 7-253: Kyle Hinton, OL (Washburn)
How does this team look for Madden 21? I think this could be a really good IRL team, but I don’t love the Madden potential.
Kirk Cousins is medicore in game, Dalvin Cook is injury-riddled, and you can only get so much from Thielen. The defense seems fast and well-suited for Madden, but this is not a top-tier Madden squad.
22. Houston Texans
2019 Record: 10-6
Additions: Brandin Cooks (WR), David Johnson (RB), Randall Cobb (WR), Timmy Jernigan (DT), Mike Thomas (S), Brent Qvale (T), Jaylen Watkins (DB), Eric Murray (S)
Departures: Carlos Hyde (RB), Lamar Miller (RB), Mike Adams (S), Tashaun Gipson (S), Barkevious Mingo (LB), D.J. Reader (DT), DeAndre Hopkins (WR), Jonathan Joseph (CB), Taiwan Jones (RB)
NFL Draft: 2-40: Ross Blacklock, DT (TCU) 3-90: Jonathan Greenard, LB (Florida): Signed 4-126: Charlie Heck, OL (North Carolina) 4-141: John Reid, CB (Penn State) 5-171: Isaiah Coulter, WR (Rhode Island)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Deshaun Watson. If you want this team, it is because of Deshaun Watson.
JJ Watt is still elite, but he is damn near the only other elite player. I think you could still be successful with this squad running around with Watson and hoping Fuller & Cooks get open, but Bill O’Brien did a number.
23. Los Angeles Rams
2019 Record: 9-7
Additions: Leonard Floyd (EDGE), A’Shawn Robinson (DT)
Departures: Eric Weddle (S), Clay Matthews (EDGE), Blake Bortles (QB), Greg Zuerlein (K), Nickell Robey-Coleman (CB), Dante Fowler Jr. (EDGE), Cory Littelton (LB), Brandin Cooks (WR)
NFL Draft: 2-52: Cam Akers, RB (Florida State) 2-57: Van Jefferson, WR (Florida) 3-84: Terrell Lewis, OLB (Alabama) 3-104: Terrell Burgess, S (Utah) 4-136: Brycen Hopkins, TE (Purdue) 6-199: Jordan Fuller, S (Ohio State) 7-234: Clay Johnston, LB (Baylor) 7-248: Sam Sloman, K (Miami of Ohio) 7-250: Tremayne Anchrum, OL (Clemson)
How does this team look for Madden 21? How the mighty have fallen. From elite starting squad in M19 & M20 to okay-ish.
Goff is a good, not great Madden QB making top-tier money. Losing Cooks makes a great receiving core into mediocre. Cam Akers might be good to develop, but it isn’t clear right now. They might have a decent to good defense, but I do not find it too exciting.
24. Las Vegas Raiders
2019 Record: 7-9
Additions: Nelson Agholor (WR), Maliek Collins (DL), Jeff Heath (S), Eric Kush (OL), Nick Kwiatkoski (LB), Cory Littleton (LB), Marcus Mariota (QB), Carl Nassib (DL), Nick O’Leary (TE), Jason Witten (TE), Prince Amukamara (CB), Devontae Booker (RB)
Departures: Deshone Kizer (QB), Mike Glennon (QB), Tahir Whitehead (LB), Karl Joseph (S), Daryl Worley (CB), Benson Mayowa (DL), Eric Tomilson (TE), DeAndre Washington (RB),
NFL Draft: 1-12: Henry Ruggs III, WR (Alabama) 1-19: Damon Arnette, CB (Ohio State) 3-80: Lynn Bowden Jr., WR (Kentucky) 3-81: Bryan Edwards, WR (South Carolina) 3-100: Tanner Muse, LB (Clemson) 4-109: John Simpson, OL (Clemson) 4-139: Amik Robertson, CB (Louisiana Tech)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Surprisingly, I think this team could be okay. They are very meh in a lot of areas, but young enough to get guys to elite level quickly.
The biggest question is Derek Carr. However, a solid young HB, a speedster rookie WR, an elite receiving TE, a decent OL, and a league average defensive unit make this squad interesting enough.
25. Chicago Bears
2019 Record: 8-8
Additions: Nick Foles (QB), Jimmy Graham (TE), Robert Quin (EDGE), Tashaun Gipson (S), Ted Ginn (WR), Demetrius Harris (TE), Artie Burns (CB), Germain Ifedi (T), John Jenkins (EDGE),
Departures: Prince Amukamara (CB), Kyle Long (G), HaHa Clinton-Dix (S), Aaron Lynch (EDGE), Chase Daniel (QB), Nicholas Williams (DT), Nick Kwiatkoski (LB), Leonard Floyd (EDGE), Kevin Pierre-Louis (EDGE)
NFL Draft: 2-43: Cole Kmet, TE (Notre Dame) 2-50: Jaylon Johnson, CB (Utah) 5-155: Trevis Gipson, LB (Tulsa) 5-173: Darnell Mooney, WR (Tulane) 7-226: Arlington Hambright, T (Colorado) 7-227: Lachavious Simmons, T (Tennessee State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Defense. If you want this team, it is because you like the defense.
Offense is not good. Trubisky and Foles are not good Madden QBs. Tarik Cohen is the best offensive weapon and if his attributes regress, I am not sure how you put up points with this team.
26. Cincinnati Bengals
2019 Record: 2-14
Additions: Mackensie Alexander (CB), Vonn Bell (S), Josh Bynes (LB), D.J. Reader (DT), LeShaun Sims (CB), Xavier Su’a-Filo (G), Mike Thomas (WR), Trae Waynes (CB)
Departures: Andrew Billings (DT), Tyler Eifert (TE), Clayton Fejedelem (S), Tony McRae (CB), LaRoy Reynolds (LB), Nick Vigil (LB), LaRoy Reynolds (OLB)
NFL Draft: 1-1: Joe Burrow, QB (LSU) 2-33: Tee Higgins, WR (Clemson) 3-65: Logan Wilson, LB (Wyoming) 4-107: Akeem Davis-Gaither, OLB (Appalachian State) 5-147: Khalid Kareem, DE (Notre Dame) 6-180: Hakeem Adeniji, T (Kansas) 7-215: Markus Bailey, LB (Purdue)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The main reason to choose this team is for Joe Burrow. Sure, there is a solid Madden core in Mixon, AJ Green, and John Ross, but Burrow is the guy you would take this squad for frist and foremost.
While you could argue the defense is solid enough (Geno Atkins, DJ Reader, Jessie Bates, William Jackson, and Vonn Bell), the issues on the OL and in the LB core do knock this team down a bit. A good project bunch, but unlucky to compete immediately.
27. Carolina Panthers
2019 Record: 5-11
Additions: Robbie Anderson (WR), Teddy Bridgewater (QB), Justin Burris (S), Pharoh Cooper (KR), Seth DeValve (TE), Zach Kerr (DL), Keith Kirkwood (WR), John Miller (G), Russell Okung (T), Seth Roberts (WR), P.J. Walker (QB), Stephen Weatherly (DL), Tahir Whitehead (LB), Michael Schofield (OL), Jayron Kearse (S)
Departures: Cam Newton (QB), Kyle Allen (QB), Greg Olsen (TE), Eric Reid (S), Trai Turner (G), Greg Van Roten (G), Daryl Williams (OL), Dontari Poe (DT), Luke Kuechly (LB), Mario Addison (EDGE), Vernon Butler (DL), Gerald McCoy (DT), Bruce Irvin (EDGE), James Bradberry (CB)
NFL Draft: 1-7: Derrick Brown, DT (Auburn) 2-38: Yetur Gross-Matos, DE (Penn State) 2-64: Jeremy Chinn, DB (Southern Illinois) 4-113: Troy Pride Jr., CB (Notre Dame) 5-152: Kenny Robinson, S (West Virginia) 6-184: Bravvion Roy, DT (Baylor) 7-221: Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, CB (Florida International)
How does this team look for Madden 21? This is a weird team to review in my opinion. There are more highs than you would think, but I cannot truly know until official ratings come out on how to evaluate the best play/team-building style.
You have historically low THP Teddy paired with deep threat guys in Moore, Samuel, and Robby Anderson. The OL is solid, but do you then decide to go all in on CMC? Outside of the confusing offensive setup, the defense is a fairly meh group. Some decent players in Brian Burns, Kawann Short, Donte Jackson, Shaq Thompson and draft pick Derrick Brown, but since they went so D-Heavy in the draft, we will have to wait for the evaluators to give us ratings to see if there are any attribute freaks in that draft class.
28. Detroit Lions
2019 Record: 3-12-1
Additions: Halapoulivaati Vaitai (T), Jamie Collins Sr. (LB), Nick Williams (DT), Chase Daniel (QB), Danny Shelton (DT), Desmond Trufant (CB), Jayron Kearse (S), Geronimo Allison (WR), Duron Harmon (S), Reggie Ragland (LB)
Departures: Graham Glasgow (G), Jeff Driskel (QB), J.D. McKissic (RB), A’Shawn Robinson (DT), Logan Thomas (TE), Rashaan Melvin (CB), Darius Slay (CB), Damon Harrison (DT), Devon Kennard (LB), Ricky Wagner (T)
NFL Draft: 1-3: Jeffrey Okudah, CB (Ohio State) 2-35: D’Andre Swift, RB (Georgia) 3-67: Julian Okwara, OLB (Notre Dame) 3-75: Jonah Jackson, G (Ohio State) 4-121: Logan Stenberg, OL (Kentucky) 5-166: Quintez Cephus, WR (Wisconsin) 5-172: Jason Huntley, RB (New Mexico State) 6-197: John Penisini (lol), DT (Utah) 7-235: Jason Cornell, DE (Ohio State)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The good here is that Okudah should be a monster in the game and D’Andre Swift should be very developable for just about any user. This team also retains one of the more solid WR duos in Golladay and Marvin Jones.
Unfortunately, losing the Slay HURTS. This is not too mention losing Damon Harrison and A’Shawn Robinson. That defense is not going to be good for a bit.
29. New England Patriots
2019 Record: 12-4
Additions: Marqise Lee (WR), Beau Allen (DT), Brian Hoyer (QB), Cody Davis (S), Adrian Phillips (S), Brandon Copeland (OLB), Damiere Byrd (WR)
Departures: Tom Brady (QB), Stephen Gostkowski (K), James Develin (FB), Ben Watson (TE), Rob Gronkowski (TE), Kyle Van Noy (LB), Ted Karras (C), Elandon Roberts (FB/LB), Nate Ebner (S), Duron Harmon (S), Jamie Collins (LB), Danny Shelton (DT), Phillip Dorsett (WR)
NFL Draft: 2-37: Kyle Dugger, S (Lenoir-Rhyne) 2-60: Josh Uche, LB (Michigan)3-87: Anfernee Jennings, OLB (Alabama): 3-91: Devin Asiasi, TE (UCLA): 3-101: Dalton Keene, TE (Virginia Tech): 5-159: Justin Rohrwasser, K (Marshall): 6-182: Michael Onwenu, G (Michigan) 6-195: Justin Herron, T (Wake Forest): 6-204: Cassh Maluia, LB (Wyoming): 7-230: Dustin Woodard, C (Memphis)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The good of this team is defense and OL. N’Keal Harry, Jakobi Meyers, and Sony Michel are developable, but those folks do not make this squad young.
If you choose this team, it has to do with your status as a NE fan more than anything on the team.
30. New York Jets
2019 Record: 7-9
Additions: Frank Gore (RB), Patrick Onwuasor (LB), Breshad Perriman (WR), Jordan Jenkins (OLB), James Burgess (LB), Pierre Desir (CB), Greg Van Roten (G), Marqui Christian (DB), Josh Andrews (OL), Neville Hewitt (LB), Arthur Maulet (CB), Brian Poole (CB), Alex Lewis (G), Connor McGovern (C), George Fant (T),
Departures: Robbie Anderson (WR), Brandon Copeland (LB), Darryl Roberts (CB), Maurice Canady (CB), Trevor Siemian (QB), Demaryius Thomas (WR), Kelvin Beachum (T), Ryan Kalil (OL), Brent Qvale (T)
NFL Draft: 1-11: Mekhi Becton, T (Louisville) 2-59: Denzel Mims, WR (Baylor) 3-68: Ashtyn Davis, S (California) 3-79: Jabari Zuniga, DE (Florida) 4-120: Lamical Perine, RB (Florida) 4-125: James Morgan, QB (Florida International) 4-129: Cameron Clark, OT (Charlotte) 5-158: Bryce Hall, CB (Virginia) 6-191: Braden Mann, P (Texas A&M)
How does this team look for Madden 21? Any ranking for this team depends 100% on Jamal Adams. One of the best defenders in Madden and this team goes down the tubes without him.
They overpaid for CJ Mosley, have no WRs, Darnold could still be developed, but Le’Veon is the only star on this team and that is not enough to carry you too far.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars
2019 Record: 6-10
Additions: Joe Schobert (LB), Darqueze Dennard (CB), Rodney Gunter (DL), Tyler Shatley (OL), Lerentee McCray (DE), Al Woods (DT), DE/LB Cassius Marsh (EDGE), Tyler Eifert (TE), Rashaan Melvin (CB), Mike Glennon (QB)
Departures: Calais Cambell (DL), Nick Foles (QB), A.J. Bouye (CB), Cedric Ogbuehi (OT), Marqise Lee (WR)
NFL Draft: 1-9: C.J. Henderson, CB (Florida) 1-20: K’Lavon Chaisson, DE (LSU) 2-42: Laviska Shenault, WR (Colorado) 3-73: Davon Hamilton, DT (Ohio State) 4-116: Ben Bartch, OT (St. John’s (MN)) 4-137: Josiah Scott, CB (Michigan State) 4-140: Shaquille Quarterman, ILB (Miami) 5-157: Daniel Thomas, S (Auburn) 5-165: Collin Thomas, WR (Texas) 6-189: Jake Luton, QB (Oregon State) 6-206: Tyler Davis, TE (Georgia Tech) 7-223: Chris Claybrooks, CB (Memphis)
How does this team look for Madden 21? The only reason to choose this team for Madden 21 is because you believe you can develop the young core on the squad. Ideally, you would draft a QB after Year 1 and roll on from there.
Pieces like Josh Allen, K’Lavon Chaisson, Myles Jack, CJ Henderson, DJ Chark, Laviska Shenault, and DeDe Westbrook are solid and could take you places if you can get them going. Unfortunately, the Yannick situation might throw this team for a further loop later on this offseason.
32. New York Giants
2019 Record: 4-12
Additions: Dravon Askew-Henry (CB), Casey Krieter (LS), Eric Tomlinson (TE), Austin Johnson (DL), Dion Lewis (RB), Colt McCoy (QB), Nate Ebner (S), Cameron Fleming (T), Kyler Fackrell (EDGE), James Bradberry (CB), Blake Martinez (LB), Levine Toilolo (TE)
Departures: Cody Latimer (WR), Mike Remmers (OL), Antonio Hamilton (CB), Michael Thomas (S), Antonio Hamilton (CB)
NFL Draft: 1-4: Andrew Thomas, T (Georgia) 2-36: Xavier McKinney, S (Alabama) 3-99: Matt Peart, OT (Connecticut) 4-110: Darnay Holmes, CB (UCLA) 5-150: Shane Lemieux, G (Oregon) 6-183: Cameron Brown, LB (Penn State) 7-218: Carter Coughlin, LB (Minnesota) 7-238: T.J. Brunson LB (South Carolina) 7-247: Chris Williamson, CB (Minnesota) 7-255: Tae Crowder, LB (Georgia)
How does this team look for Madden 21? In short, BAD. You only choose this team if you: love Saquon, trust in the legend of Danny Dimes, are a Giants fan (RIP), or get very unlucky.
I honesty don’t have a lot to say other than good luck and godspeed.