15. MLB Jordyn Brooks (Seattle Seahawks): Brooks is an excellent athlete and stops the runs quite well. Not the type of linebacker you want in on a long third down if you can avoid it. But he would fill the middle of a 4-3 defense or the second linebacker in the middle of a 3-4 defense. This guy can be a tackling machine for any defense lacking elite athleticism in the middle. Teams are putting a premium on being able to stop the run, so I can easily see him fetching a big contract in free agency.
Prediction: 4 years 40 million Las Vegas Raiders
14. CB Adoree Jackson (New York Giants): Another elite athlete who checks all the boxes when it comes to the physical tools side of it. Jackson is more of a zone corner, although he can play man when called upon to do so. Jackson prefers to play off so teams that are heavy press coverage units wouldn’t be a great fit. Jackson can be a really good CB2 on a contender. However, you will likely have to pay him like a CB1 to get him on the open market.
Prediction: 4 years 50 million Los Angeles Rams
13. DT D.J. Reader (Cincinnati Bengals): Reader is 29 and can help a win now team. I would think his best fit would be to stay in Cincinnati but as of this point that does not seem to be an option. Reader is not the sexy type of pass rusher most teams want to rush out and sign in free agency. Instead using his 334-pound frame he serves a vaunted run stopper on the interior of your defense. With run defense currently at a premium I could see some team paying this man to solve that problem in the short term.
Prediction: 3 years 36 million Denver Broncos
12. RB Tony Pollard (Dallas Cowboys): Pollard is still a very productive back at 26 years old. I could see him filling a need for a team instantly. His strengths rely on his elite speed which for most teams I would say he has 3-4 season window of being able to help them. Pollard has proven himself a three down back with the ability to pass protect a bit and catch the football when called upon. Teams who are running back needy but scared of the draft could see this as a good investment.
Prediction: 3 years 21 million New York Giants
11. RB D’Andre Swift (Philadelphia Eagles): I have a hard time believing that the man leading the Redzone in catches is going to be moving this offseason. Swift is just 24 years old and has broken out as one of the better backs in the league. With his talent and age combination this is the type of back you might be okay paying for a couple of years as a Redzone GM. Swift is not going to be the piece that makes you a Super Bowl contender, but for some contenders he might be the piece that puts them over the top. I love the upside here and think Swift gets paid if he hits the open market.
Prediction: 4 years 28 million Arizona Cardinals
10. (RB) Austin Ekeler Los Angeles Chargers: He is a fantastic player but will be 29 next season. As we know there is a risk with running backs and ones especially who have had some injuries. He is not higher on my list for those factors. Ekeler brings top level back properties right now, he will be a depreciating asset as time goes on. Ekeler could find himself in a win now situation if the right team has a need at the running back position. Outside of contenders there likely won’t be a huge market for this long time productive player. He has looked great in Coach Ramesu’s offense.
Prediction: 2 years 16 million Kansas City Chiefs
9. RB Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans): Many expect Henry to be tagged, he is still among the best running backs in the entire league. Henry will be 30 to start next season so whatever team may be interested in him would have a limited window until his skillset starts to dwindle. Another season in Tennessee could be another option as I her rumors around the league have Henry being tagged instead of hitting the open market. Henry like Ekeler if he finds himself in the right situation could put a team over the top in their pursuit of a ring.
Prediction: Franchise tag stays in Tennessee
8. RB Saquon Barkley (New York Giants): Saquon is 26 years old and can give a team a couple of productive years. The question is about his ability to stay healthy; Barkley has been a dynamic playmaker for the Giants this past season. If they can’t get something done, I can see Barkley again returning on the franchise tag. However, if he does make it to the open market he should get a nice 4 or so year contract. A team that wants to solve their running back question and values a workhorse would be the ideal situation. Barkley brings a variety of different skills to the table so he fits many schemes well.
Prediction: 4 Years 60 million New England Patriots
7. FS Kamren Curl (Washington Commanders): Curl would improve a lot of safety rooms quickly. A good athlete who shows awesome coverage skills. Not much of a run stopper however so you might be looking for a bit of a thumper to play opposite of him. The Commanders seem to be going in other directions based on the choices they have made. At 24 years old he is currently one of the younger players to hit free agency in recent memory. He is a good building piece for a defense in search of younger talent.
Prediction: 4 years 36 million Indianapolis Colts
6. DE Christian Wilkins (Miami Dolphins): Wilkins is an excellent run defender; he fits perfectly into your 3-4 scheme as a playmaker and disrupter. The knock on him would be that he is an average pass rusher at best. Wilkins commands double teams in the run game freeing up linebackers to make plays and he himself gets quite a few tackles for loss. Teams as I mentioned earlier in this article are putting more of a premium on stopping the run. Wilkins is 27 and in his prime. He figures to be a big part of the foundation of whatever defensively for whatever team he signs with.
Prediction: 3 years 42 million Baltimore Ravens
5. SS Kyle Duggar (New England Patriots): Duggar is a playmaker and disrupter but on the back half of the defense unlike the Wilkins before him. Duggar is an excellent athlete; he plays zone pretty well and makes big hits. I would not as him to play as a box safety as much but allowing him to roam to make hits because he recognizes plays well. At 27 Duggar is in position to cash out big and some safety needy team is going to get a productive player if he is used properly.
Prediction: 3 years 36 million Minnesota Vikings
4. WR Marquise Brown (Tennessee Titans): Brown is another player who is in the prime of his career. He relies on his elite athleticism in most cases to make plays. He is most well known for catching the deep ball. Any team that needs a player who can take the top off of a defense would be wise to take a look at him. I think especially for some of these younger quarterbacks they would have another option or way to attack the opposing defense.
Prediction: 4 years 60 million Carolina Panthers
3. TE T.J. Hockenson (Indianapolis Colts): Great player who I expect to be tagged. The Colts just traded for him, and I doubt their GM did that without a plan.
Prediction: Franchise Tag Stays in Indy
2. WR Gabe Davis (Buffalo Bills): For a team that is need of a guy to be number one wideout they may have found their guy in Gabe Davis. He is a big, fast guy with great hands. He leaves a little be desired as a route runner but if you are a team that likes the 50/50 ball he can do that too if called upon. 24 years old and there is a lot of football ahead of Gabe Davis. Another player I would imagine a team with a young quarterback goes after to give him a legitimate target.
Prediction: 4 Years 64 million Las Vegas Raiders
1. DE Nick Bosa (San Francisco 49ers): Nick Bosa will not be hitting free agency. I fully expect 49ers brass to tag him as they have indicated they will. The question is where the best defensive player in the league arguably goes, and what type of price is he going to fetch? In these situations, my money is always on Moji.
Prediction: Bosa is tagged by 49ers and traded to Titans
Name: Gerald Oden
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6’6
Weight: 228
Age: 23
Hand: Right
College: Texas A&M
Notes
Gerald Oden is the type of prototypical Quarterback that a throwback coach and scout dream of. A smart player who is good at sensing pressure and making the decision to get rid of the ball at the right time to avoid negative plays. He has the type of throwing motion that is fundamentally and mechanically sound. That compact motion allows him to throw beautiful spirals. Gerald Oden is one of the strongest standing players in terms of his arm and ability to fight off defenders in the pocket. The one knock is for a modern Quarterback he is a poor athlete in most ways. Do not expect him to create plays with his legs in any way, everything is going to come from the pocket with this guy. He is strong enough to get you a few yards in a power situation. I do not see him being the most accurate Quarterback in the world, but I rarely see teams want to pass up on a player with this big of an arm. Completion percentage is good in college however the windows will not be the same in the pro game. Currently a top 5 projected pick we will need to see more to know if he will be deserving of being drafted that high.
Name: George Curran
Position: Quarterback
Height: 5’11
Weight: 226
Age: 21
Hand: Right
College: Washington
Notes
George Curran comes from a spread offense in Washington where they throw the ball all over the yard. Lots of large passing windows, and their offensive approach is focused primarily on short to intermediate routes. He has shown himself to be less accurate deep with a much lower success rate when doing it. Curran is an atypical 5’11 Quarterback many of them rely on speed and agility to complement their skills. Curran is not a particularly good athlete. He is strong for his size and has a pretty big arm for a smaller Quarterback. He has one of the fastest throwing motions I have ever witnessed which produces some pretty spirals when throwing the ball. He is cool and calm under pressure, has great functional pocket movement/awareness. Knows when to throw the ball away, and overall, a just a smart human being. Nothing ever cracks this kid, and his college coaches rave about his performance when things are most important. 10 years ago, this kid would have been a 3rd or 4th round pick, now however with the successes of Brees, Wilson and the likes of them he is a projected Top 5 pick. Can a team tailor an offensive scheme around his skillset? That to me is going to make or break Geroge Curran’s career.
Name: Lynn Harris
Position: Quarterback
Height: 5’11
Weight: 214
Age: 22
Hand: Right
College: Ball State
Notes
The do it all Cardinals Quarterback is one my favorite prospects this year. He is not the traditional Quarterback prospect, another 5’11 Quarterback but he does not have the pedigree George Curran does. He does not have the biggest arm, and everything in Ball State’s offense is RPO and timing based. It really relies on his greatest strength, which is his accuracy. I really love his throwing motion. It is fast, compact, and he may throw the prettiest ball in the draft. He does not sense pressure well and he will need to work on that to be able to help a team on the pro level. Lynn Harris has a history of injuries including a knee injury that has robbed him of any elite level of athleticism. Currently projected to be a 2nd/3rd round pick he is a project. I do not know if I ever see him being a starter, but he surely could win a backup job and help a team out. Short RPO’s and quick reads will be the key to utilizing his skills most effectively.
Thanks for reading we will be back with more draft prospect highlights later in the season!
Let’s get this out of the way, nice to meet you coach. You were a late addition after the former Giants coach was arrested for indecent public exposure in a subway… can we count on that not happening to you?
Cocaine is hell of a drug but those days are behind me (Shout out to LT). I’m focused on leading this team to success.
What attracted you to join a league like the Redzone?
Been close to 7 years since I’ve played madden or gamed in general. When I did play, I was never able to find a league that lasted this long. The rules were also HUGE. Love the limits on play calling on and hot routing. Adds variety to each game and a lot more enjoyable.
Why should Giants fans be excited you are coming to a historically good organization?
We’re gonna be aggressive. Either end up really good or really bad but won’t settle for mediocrity.
What is the long term plan with offense and specifically the Quarterback position?
Offense will go through Saquon and we’ll utilize Danny’s legs until we can get these youngsters developed and open up the passing game. Danny is highly underrated. I’m expecting him to finish his career as a Giant.
How do you see your ideal defensive identity being formed and what is that?
I like building a strong dline and controlling line of scrimmage. Stop the run, make teams on dimensional and force them into mistakes.
What type of GM can Giants fans expect? One that plays if safe, one that is aggressive, or somewhere in between?
We’ll be aggressive and willing to give our future draft capital to win now. Some limitations on us from the CBA but expect us to make some big moves once that’s lifted.
What are you expectations for the Giants this season?
Goal is to win the division. We’ll either finish 1st or last.
This was the final part of the New Booty Segment. Thank you all for reading!
Hello Redzone, it is your favorite fake retiree. We have had a lot of turnover with regards to owners over the last couple of years due to the age of the league. When a league like Redzone runs as long as it does you are bound to lose some kind of key membership over the years. Gone are the names like Caveman, Aaron, Weedseed, Kad, Roc, and many others. With that being said we are going to focus on some of the new blood gracing us for the Madden 24 cycle. We have five new league members joining this cycle. We are going to start with AJ Boom the new coach of the New England Patriots who has some already shown some innovative media in getting a rule partially changed. (I hated this decision, we have the worst commissioners ever, they are already drunk on power!) I kid of course, but only about the commissioner part still hate the rule change However I digress and lets get started with our interview.
Let’s get this out of the way, nice to meet you coach. Are you aware the league has opened a tampering investigation regarding impermissible contact between yourself and current Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum?
I had no clue whatsoever. But I will say we will offer for mr. Linderbaum again!
Wonderful a blatant disregard for tampering rules, you should go far kid! What attracted you to join a league like the Redzone?
I have been looking for a league like this for a while. So once I found it I knew it was the one.
We tend to have that effect on people, either you love it here and become or you wash out quickly. What is a little you want to share about yourself?
Just rewatch my slideshow and you will know all you need to know.
I might just have to do that. Why should Patriots fans be excited you are coming to Foxboro and how do you plan to restore championship glory to a place used to winning?
Simple. Hard work and dedication. We are here to have a good time but show redzone that we don’t fuck around!
Woah coach, kids might be reading this article. Seems like you have a bit of Rex Ryan in you. Speaking of defense… How do you see your ideal defensive identity being formed and what is that?
The defense I feel is almost already formed. We have a lot of young talent that will be a Patriot for a long time.
Speaking of long time Patriots, with Tom Brady having left town for a while now. What is the long-term plan with offense and specifically the Quarterback position, is Mac Jones the guy to fill those enormous shoes?
We are hoping Mac Jones is the guy. But if not, we are always willing to trade him. Hopefully he steps up and proves that this is his team.
Tough if you are a starting Quarterback with your coach saying you could be traded, I feel for Mac Jones. Let’s slide over to the front office side of things. What type of GM can Pats fans expect? One that plays if safe, one that is aggressive, or somewhere in between?
Pats fans will learn to love the aggressiveness. We did not come to take part. WE CAME TO TAKE OVER!
I am sure the fanbase will appreciate the enthusiasm. What are you expectations for the Patriots this season?
My expectations is we make a solid push to the playoffs. Maybe go 11-6. And hopefully see who steps in and takes us to the bowl.
Any final words?
PATS NATION!!!!!
Thanks for joining us coach, this was round 3 of our new coach interview series. Check back soon for part 4! Thanks for reading as always.
Let’s get this out of the way, nice to meet you coach. Which mafia family are you connected to and what kickbacks on construction projects can you get?
I cannot speak of my connections, or I will be a dead man, but if you treat me well there are always kickbacks around.
Thanks Coach do not need you dead before you coach your first game. What attracted you to join a league like the Redzone?
I have been looking for an ultra realism madden league that wants to play real football and not just cheese madden. Seeing the no switch and allowing the CPUs to play to their ratings was also a big sell for me because team building matters even more now. I’m also excited to participate in all the media.
Glad to have you here Coach. What is a little you want to share about yourself?
I’m a Chicago sports fan, I’m 24, recently married in November and just got a house as well. Currently live in St. louis and long live the #baldgang
Still a young man! Why should Buccaneers fans be excited you are coming to sunny Tampa Florida?
Bucs fans should be excited to watch a well-structured team the has a gameplan on offense and defense. As well as making this roster younger while still getting better.
I hope what you are saying is true for the sake of the fans. What is the long-term plan with offense and specifically the Quarterback position?
For the offense I plan on building an offense a bit like the 49ers, we will run the ball and do it well, we will make the field easy to read for our QB and not be taking many risks until we find our QB that can prosper in this system. Now as finding a QB it may be tough; Baker will get a chance, but he is on his 4th team, and we all know why. I never see this organization picking high enough to get a top tier QB prospect so hopefully we can develop that 3rd or 4th QB into a franchise QB. Free agency is always an option as well but who knows.
Very interesting plan have not seen the pan out many times but wish you luck. How do you see your ideal defensive identity being formed and what is that?
On defense we will make everyone drive the entire field and let their impatience of long drives turn the ball over, we won’t let up big plays. I am hoping Vita Vea will be our anchor for a long time as that is essential in my defense. I need a DL that can stop the run so my Lb’s can fly around and make plays. I also need intelligent DBs that can play any coverage as the gameplan changes each week depending on who we will be playing.
Seems you want your defense to play a tough brand of football. What type of GM can Bucs fans expect? One that plays if safe, one that is aggressive, or somewhere in between.
I would expect a calculated GM if I was a fan. Each move will be made while looking at how it affects us years down the road not just for one season. I will not be afraid to trade for an aging player or two but look for us to get younger.
What are your expectations for the Buccaneers this season?
Expect a team to be fighting for the division. There is not a strong team in this division, but I also do not know how the other GMs play or how good they are. But this Org will always be fighting for the playoffs no matter who the QB is. Anything less than the wildcard is a serious letdown for me.
Thanks for joining us coach, this was round 2 of our new coach interview series. Check back soon for part 3! Thanks for reading as always.
Hello Redzone, it is your favorite fake retiree. We have had a lot of turnover with regards to owners over the last couple of years due to the age of the league. When a league like Redzone runs as long as it does you are bound to lose some kind of key membership over the years. Gone are the names like Caveman, Aaron, Weedseed, Kad, Roc, and many others. With that being said we are going to focus on some of the new blood gracing us for the Madden 24 cycle. We have five new league members joining this cycle. We are going to start with Tohn Jravis the new coach of the Denver Broncos who has some already interesting connection to the league. All responses to my questions are italicized.
Hello Coach and very nice to meet you. I hate to start our interview this way, but I do have some questions about your perception. How do you feel about being labeled a “Sister Kisser” by some entering the league?
These are false accusations, I don’t know who would dare put out these rumors, because “sister kissers” come from Bama not Louisiana. This is disrespectful!
Thank you for the passionate answer coach. I know you have a lot of ties to current coaches within the southern tree of the league. What attracted you to join a league like the Redzone?
I have always had love for the game of football and that also extends to madden, where it’s no different and I have competed in leagues with users such as Trent and some of the Bama users, and I just wanted to be a part of something bigger and more serious with elite competition and to whip Austin’s ass.
Thank you for your candor coach, although you are talking about someone who has had a bit of success in his short run so far. What is a little you want to share about yourself?
I’m from Louisiana, I’m 23 and I’m Trent’s Daddy, aka Papa John he came up with that name when we were in bed.
Some scandalous answers coming from a first-time head coach about a man who won a title not so long ago. Why should Denver Broncos fans be excited that you are coming to Denver Colorado?
Look I am a young, but I have been on my GM and coaching journey for a long time and just know that I have the experience and heart to take any team to the next level and that’s what I plan to do, just know I will always be the first to come in the building and the last to leave because I embrace the grind.
Some words I know Broncos fans hope you live by. With Russell Wilson and crew what will be your offensive philosophy?
My offensive identity has always been an old school type approach to play a physical brand of football, that might not always be pretty, but it has been proven to be successful, but my issues in the past were the turnovers, and I’m going to try to eliminate that by making the offense simple for Russell.
I know Bronco’s fans are hoping you can keep the turnovers down and make Russ look like he did when he was winning a title in Seattle on the doorstep of another. How do you see your ideal defensive identity being formed and what is that?
I feel like I’ve always been a solid defensive coach especially against the pass because I always mix my defense up and keep opposing teams guessing, but I will need to address run stopping. Just know we will be a ball hawking defense swarming the ball.
Older fans in Denver remember a time when their defense was dominated by star players, and I am sure they are hoping you can replicate that success. What type of GM can Broncos fans expect? One that plays if safe, one that is aggressive, or somewhere in between?
In the past I’ve been flamed by other users because of some questionable decisions in the past and some of my teams have been called a “nursing home” because of the way I sign veterans which may be seen as aggressive, but I view older signings more as rentals, that I can plug and play. While I also Develop my young talent.
Speaking of development… What are you expectations for the Broncos this season?
Even if I don’t make the playoffs, I just want to give everyone a competitive game and to compete till the end of the season and potentially make the playoffs. It may take a season until I get use to the league so after I get comfortable, I plan to stay relevant for the long haul.
I want to thank coach Tohn Jravis for taking the time to interview with me. Look out for more because we have four more first time head coaches I have or will interview! Thanks as always for reading Redzone and lets kick some ass this cycle.
Hello everyone and welcome to Coach Jim’s Season 83 Precycle Draft Capital Rankings. This order is based on roster strength for the most part. For example, I expect Arizona to struggle this season in most scenarios, so they have the first overall pick in the draft in this draft order. Obviously if someone like Adel, Moji, Astin etc. were to get them that would change the outlook.
First let’s start with some information about the upcoming draft. Let us start with number three. Number three is the number of teams that have multiple first round picks and teams that are currently without a first-round pick total three.
These are the three teams that hold multiple first round picks. At least they should, as I believe the Packers will have the pick despite it being conditional. Each of these cases is a little bit different from where the franchise currently is. Let us start with Arizona, they are a team on the decline really for most people they would be considered a full rebuild. The Cardinals have Kyler Murray but trading that albatross of a contract to a team considering themselves a Quarterback away is likely the move. That Texans pick combined with their own could have this team picking twice in the top five. The Green Bay Packers lost Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and are seemingly in the middle of trying to reinvent themselves as well. I feel like this is another situation where a full fledged rebuild is in order. Jordan Love is not the answer, and their new coach needs to find his replacement as soon as he can. Chicago is in a different situation than the other two teams we just discussed. They are really on the come up despite trading away the top pick in last year’s draft. Whoever gets this job will be in a fantastic position to continue to build a Super Bowl contending roster. Justin Fields being in place is a huge plus for anyone looking to take the Bears. Allows them to focus on other areas of need on the roster.
Three teams are coming into the cycle without a 1st round pick as well. Those teams are as follows.
There is a common theme amongst all these teams. They traded this pick to get their guy at the most important position in the league. Some guys really like drafting a Quarterback, I am not personally one of those people. Even without a first-round pick walking into the cycle these teams should be able to make some noise depending on which coach signs on with them. Let us start with Carolina who made the splash of the offseason in many ways by trading up to the top pick in April’s draft. They took former Heisman trophy winner Bryce Young. The Panthers are hoping to replicate the success of their last top overall pick at Quarterback… Cam Newton. Bryce Young should be at least star development out of the gates, but I could see him getting superstar like some former top picks. The Panthers traded DJ Moore in the pursuit of trading for Young. Young will need to elevate a rather pedestrian group on offense, the defense is an exciting young core however in Carolina. Keeping the Panthers defense steadily improving while jolting some life into the line and skill positions. Cleveland always feels like a team that should be better than they are at this point. They gave up a lot for Deshaun Watson in terms of draft compensation which their new coach will be feeling to start the cycle. As Adel mentioned in the latest media piece, he released ranking potential QB movement. Moving off this albatross of a contract won’t happen anytime soon. Cleveland with the right coach can be a Super Bowl contender, and with the wrong one they are in a tough spot due to the lack of assets they have in this first draft. New York on the other hand is looking pretty good for most coaches who might land a chance at their coaching job. The roster is littered with top picks, as The Jets have picked a lot in the first couple of rounds of the draft. They have a lot less to work with these days but the reason being the haul they sent to the Packers for Aaron Rodgers. Trading Zack Wilson could net you some draft capital but nothing close to what you gave up for Rodgers in the first place.
Below is the list of draft capital each team has coming into the cycles first draft as currently constituted. These as mentioned earlier are based on my projections of what a team’s roster talent would equal. That will change once Saturday comes around. I will try to continue to run with it after that as well. Before the draft Saturday I will be releasing a full breakdown on all 32 teams’ draft capital situations.
Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed it!
Number 3 Coach Andrew San Francisco 49ers
Coach Andy had a wonderful cycle that in some ways was overshadowed by the run that former coach Biggs was able to put together being in the same division. I thought he did a wonderful job adjusting to what he had on his offense most of the cycle. It went from Henry being the focal point to later guys like Russell Wilson or Mac Jones at the end. He had his ups and downs on the defensive side of the ball while he was in Tennessee. Talking the fit for the 49ers, it seems like a good one to me. He already has Trey Lance who is the young Quarterback to build around this cycle. Talk about guys like Bosa, Warner, Samuel and Kittle to name a few that are franchise cornerstone pieces. Andy should have a really good chance to win the West out of the gate and should go pretty deep into the playoffs a few times this cycle. The question is can he make it over the hump, and I think he will be a representative of the NFC at least once this cycle. Smart moves to keep this 49ers team young will be the key to cycle long success.
Number 2 Coach King John Cleveland Browns
I like the way that this team sets up for John in the long term and the short term. He will move players he would have lost otherwise and get the picks the Browns spent on Watson back in some way shape or form. The offense is going to be pretty good, Chubb has looked great in scrimmages and I expect to see John take the offense Longville ran last cycle and maximize the talent in a scary way. The offensive line is one of the best ones I have seen at this time and he could easily be in this thing early. The AFC is deep and talented but I feel like the Browns will always be a playoff team. He has a chance every year because a defense and a run game will travel in the playoffs. Speaking of defense, they will need to continue to revamp this unit as the cycle goes on to have continued success. John has his work cut out for him from a cap perspective but he is a strong favorite for me to pick up his first title this cycle.
Number 1 Coach TSpittah Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Coach Spittah has a great team here, the Bucs are going to be a powerhouse early in the cycle. I fully expect him to be one of the early winners because Tom Brady is a GOAT. This offense has a lot of playmakers, Fournette is a good running back to have as well. Defense has some good players and some good young ones at that. Winfield and Vita Vea are a few of these younger names. For long term cycle success it is all going to depend on how he replaces Brady. I do not think that Brady will stick around long term and even if he does his regression will probably make it so he is a backup level guy before to long. I think the best chances are obviously early before the QB questions start to arise in Tampa. This defense is a bit older including a few players in the secondary, linebackers, how will Spittah navigate against those issues as well to keep the talent of his defense up? Those questions will determine just how much he wins this cycle. I think he has the best chance of any coach who is not a previous champion to become one.
Hope you enjoyed the series!
Number 6 Coach Trent New Orleans Saints
I really personally have liked the resume that coach OT has put together last cycle. He came in for a superbowl winning coach in Coach Roc and while he did not win a superbowl with that Bucs team he showed a lot of promise coming in and picking things up quite well early. The Saints are his hometown team so for some users that can be a kiss of death, however I thought he made good moves in the offseason every one of them he was here last cycle so I expect him to navigate his homer heart just fine. Judging by the Trade Block I have seen him post as well he is definitely looking to capitalize on some of these veteran players he has and turn them into younger assets for a longer term return. The Saints play in a division with Spittah and Kelly who in Spittah’s case is searching for his first title as well (more on that later) and in Kelly’s case one of the most decorated Redzone coaches we have. The Falcons will also be a wildcard in this division so OT will need to make some good moves and win some games against some stiff competition in order to hit the goal of a championship this cycle. I believe he has a great chance to do that and all it takes is him getting hot for a couple of games to go on a magical run. Iron will sharpen iron here and Trent could be your newest first time Redzone Champ.
Number 5 Coach Spencer Minnesota Vikings
Coach Spencer enjoyed a good run there with the Cardinals last cycle. He made it further into the playoffs than he ever had before and played a bunch of good teams on his way to an NFC title game. He did not make the jump at that point but I could see him making the jump once he gets this situation in Minnesota figured out. Spencer’s cycle will be about trying to find the right guy to play the most important position in football for him the Quarterback. Minnesota offensively will need some work up front but having a playmaker like Justin Jefferson for a coach and QB combo to lean will be important in the long term. Cannot forget Seminole great Dalvin Cook who will try to put this running game on his back and propel it to new heights under coach Spencer. On defense he will need to move to youth as his best players are either on or approaching the wrong of side of the dreaded 30-year-old mark. What Spencer does to solve his barren Cornerback room for example will define how the Vikings are seen this cycle on defense. Spencer has an excellent chance to go very far and win a championship if he can figure out what he wants to do with this team.
Number 4 Coach JP Tennessee Titans
Who says you can’t go home? JP spent some time away but he is back now, and I expect to see some great things from him this cycle. Young offensive core including a rookie QB/WR combo if he chooses to use them right out of the gate. JP has been out there looking to actively improve this team too and I expect him to go for it early on this cycle. This Titans team he took this time around is much better than the Bears team he ran with last cycle and even before the restart he was off to a red hot start. Things slowed down a bit, however having a back like Derrick Henry I fully expect to see him lean on his run game more than he did last cycle. He is switching to a 4-3 and the Titans have pieces on defense that can make this group play well at times. Another guy in the back half of the defense to go with Byard and to help a Cornerback room that is lacking is a must for long term success. A lot of you may be surprised to see that I ranked JP so high, I just really love the fit of the coach and team even in a loaded AFC this should be the year we call JP a champion.
Thanks for reading check back for the final installment!
Coach Mayne Event made his return last cycle with the Saints. A lot had changed in his time out of the league but he got off to a slow start. Trying to manage that Saints cap situation is a nightmare for any good GM to wade through and it was no different for him. Buffalo is in a much better spot especially at the Quarterback position than the Saints were in at that point. Josh Allen is light years ahead of Peterman the former Coach Tauph number 1 pick in every category possible. This team is good enough to win a championship this cycle, former Coach RFox fell short but was a perineal playoff team year in and year out. So how does Coach Mayne get this team over the hump you may ask? More of a focus on the defensive side of the ball that is how. The Bills last cycle played high scoring affair after high scoring affair, the issue was they could not stop anyone when it was important in the playoffs. Being smart about what pieces of your offense you replace and when you replace them will be key to keeping this team in high gear all cycle on the offensive side of the ball. We are starting to get to the part of the ranking where I believe these teams have legit shots even if they are smaller in nature to make some big time noise on a championship level. Adel and those Dolphins better watch out I do not think this Buffalo team is ready to cede this division or this conference for that matter.
There is a lot to love about what KFox did in his second cycle in the league when he was the Chargers. Let’s be honest however that team was pretty good from day one, and I think KFox failed to capitalize in a manner that would allow him to become a champion. His gameplay was much improved and he found a way to be effective as a passer especially mid to later cycle. This also is not the masterfully built Ravens team that Adel constructed based on being the biggest grifter in league history regarding trades (Moji is a close second). Back to KFox however, long term I do not think this defense has the pieces that a team like the Chargers had nor the assets to build a Bosa/Garrett front like he did last cycle. So KFox will need to get more out of Lamar Jackson then he did out of Justin Herbert long term. He will need to embrace a style of play that has long been followed by narratives of (insert your favorite cheese here). I am going to say the more LFTP votes KFox wins this year will be equilviant with his chances of winning a title this cycle. Its lonely at the top (someone told me that once… how the hell would I know). This Ravens team is set up very nicely to give Fox a chance to get his ultimate goal of a championship, it is just going to be up to him about whether he stays a true Jedi or embraces the dark side.
This ranking might be a surprise for a guy whose teams were pretty good last cycle. I do not believe that he has it in him as a defensive coach to make the jump. He has done a fantastic job with his offense, last cycle it was a very vertical offense that he ran with weapons galore. I do not see this cycle being much different, however I do not think this base defense is as good as the one he had last cycle. RFox will need to convince me that he can build a defense that is going to be upper part of the league rankings before I move him higher in a potential reranking in the future per say. The way this defense is nutured over the entirety of this cycle will directly affect his chances of winning the superbowl this cycle. Joe Burrow and Jamar Chase will likely be the most electrifying combo of the cycle for my money. I also think staying away from gimmicks this cycle like the DT he has last cycle that played offense will be important. Also he could stand to learn to run the football a little better and more often. If RFox locks in on the defensive side of the ball he could easily be the newest champion we crown at some point this cycle.
Number 12 Coach Blueprint Seattle Seahawks
Coach Blueprint has seen a decent amount of success in the past, especially in his numerous stops in Seattle. That being said this is not the same teams Coach had been taking in the past and makes you wonder if he is up for the rebuilding job that lies ahead. If Blueprint wants to win a title this cycle the first thing, he will need to get in check is the Quarterback position. He should have the assets early on between his own and Beech’s first round pick in the upcoming rookie draft to get that done. Blueprint has never been afraid to make the big move before, he traded away Lamar Jackson during his stint in Baltimore for example. Shifting over to the defensive side after jettisoning Bobby Wagner out of town and letting most of their veterans walk it is a totally different defense then we are used to seeing take the field. Blueprint will need to squeeze as many draft picks out of this roster as he possibly can to continue this rebuild that has been started. As I mentioned earlier I do not believe Drew Lock to be the answer either so we may see a repeat of what Blueprint had in the middle of last cycle with his QB carousel. Blueprint has the potential to take this team to great heights and compete for a division title eventually. These first few seasons will help shape whether that is going to be a reality or not. It is tough to see it being this year, the year he makes the leap but he has enough experience and know how to make it a possibility.
Number 11 Coach Monty Houston Texans
Monty is back fresh off of a controversial tenure as the head coach of the New York Giants. This team is likely even worse than the one he took over last cycle in New York. Is Davis Mills the answer for the Texans this year or will they have to take one of their early draft picks and invest into the Quarterback position. Monty made it work most of last cycle with Daniel Jones so I would expect he can do the same this time around with Davis Mills. There are a few playmakers on this offense including Brandin Cooks who should help his young Quarterback out early and often. I am a huge fan on the first round pick the Texans just spent 3rd overall for Derek Stingley, he is going to be a foundational piece of this defense for the entire rest of the cycle. The rest of this defense is searching for talented young players and it will be Monty the GM’s job to make sure there are enough of those kids on the roster in the following seasons if he wants to compete with Jake, JP, and Astin in a loaded AFC South division. I personally think this rough start on top of the competition he is going to face multiple times a year will make it nearly impossible for Monty to achieve the goal of climbing the mountain this cycle.
Number 10 Coach Kad Chicago Bears
Kad is a tale of the last two cycles, his lack of getting it done in New England is well documented. He traded Mac Jones to the Titans just to watch Mac play better when he left town. Enter another young Quarterback from the same draft class in Justin Fields. Fields has more upside most people would contend but I think the difference here is the athlete Justin Fields. Fields will get Kad out of more situations then he ever could with Mac Jones last cycle. When Kad has been a winner in this league it was less and less about the Quarterback and what he built around the position. The huge trade he made for Derek Henry during his tenure in Seattle vaulted him to an NFC title game at the time in a much stronger NFC than the one he plays in now. His division mates the Lions and the Vikings should present a sufficient level of challenges early on for him but I could see him making the playoffs a couple of times this cycle. If he wants to take the next steps it will require some great discipline from Kad the GM who is not always known for being the most patient or logical GM in the world. If Kad can make some good choices with his front office the sky could be the limit, he plays the game pretty well when things are set on his roster well. Kad is definitely a dark horse to make a superbowl run this cycle, the question remains whether he makes the choices that will push him in that direction. Can Kad get over the AFC hump? The likely answer to that is no, but I could see him making some late cycle noise on the path to the superbowl.
Number 15 Coach Silk Los Angeles Rams
Coach Silk is back after taking a hiatus from the Redzone. He comes in with the defending superbowl champions and a self-described top heavy roster. The Matthew Stafford pairing with Coach Silk should provide some entertainment early on. I firmly believe Stafford won’t be the Quarterback long although the Rams certainly do not have a first round pick in the upcoming draft. As we all know the Rams rely heavily on compensatory picks when they make trades for players that are eventually going to leave them anyway. This formula does not translate to our universe so I expect Silk to do everything in his power to make this roster younger and build it more for the long term. As far as Silk’s success it will be heavily predicated on solving his Quarterback situation, improving the offensive line, and bringing more depth across the entirety of his defense. While I do not see Silk as a championship winner this year, I do think he will ease his way back into the league and eventually become a playoff team. Silk will need to draft well with the picks he does have in order to make this happen, the ghost of Everett Gold is out there somewhere.
Number 14 Coach The One From None Atlanta Falcons
I personally have known TOFN aka The One From None for quite a while, he joined the league last cycle as the Texans after Biggs won two quick rings and retired. Although I must say I do not think his performance last cycle will be indicative of the rise he will see this cycle. Historically he plays a really good middle of the defense and like to lean on his run game to bring his offense home. This Atlanta team I am hoping he takes a bit of a different approach. Kyle Pitts is one of those types of players you aren’t simply just presented with when going to make your draft choices. He is a special type of player and a lot of this cycle for TOFN will depend on the production he gets out of Pitts. Desmond Ridder formerly of the Cincinnati Bearcats will look to lead this unit early but if things do not go his way expect a quick change there. Defensively I expect him to try to work with the Linebackers he has while improving the back half of his defense early. This division is tough with Kelly, Other Trent, and TSpittah in it for him to have to overcome. I do believe iron sharpens iron and he has a good chance here to learn early and become a factor later on in the cycle. It would not surprise me if he finds some type of significant success this cycle.
Number 13 Coach Glenn Washington Commanders
Coach Glenn is a bit of an interesting case when it comes to winning a potential championship. He is one of those coaches who can get hot and maybe win a game or two no one is expecting him to in the playoffs. This Commanders team has a good young defensive front, some pretty good offensive weapons for him to throw the ball to and still has room for growth. Glenn needs to work on other parts of his game to keep his team out of trouble if he has any championship aspirations. We all know he likes to throw the ball as much as possible but keeping an eye on his run/pass ratio will be a hot topic early on in the league. I think another story that will determine how this cycle goes for him in terms of winning will be what he does to make this defense better than it is. The front four is something to be reckoned with but the rest of the defense screams out looking for improvement. If Glenn gets a stifling defense to go with the gunslinger thing, he has going on offense he has a small change to be the guy who calls himself the next new Redzone champion. Contract issues and rule violations are the memories of a Packers tenure last cycle that was a stark improvement from some of the bad choices he made prior to that as a GM and coach.
Thanks for reading, check back for 12-10 later!