With the season now ten games through, the Philadelphia Eagles find themselves owning a record of 8-2, already winning more games than they had all of last season. This is in part due to several coaching (forced) and personnel decisions (voluntary) that they have made. Heading into a home game against the Mexico City Diablos, Offensive Coordinator (and current 4th and 1 prospect) David Scott Kirk juggled Dallas Goedert as a traditional tight end more often, leaving zach ertz to fill the role of slot receiver. This has given a much needed boost to the team that has gone without [soon to be super] star [x-factor] running back Miles Sanders, who was leading the league in rushing yards at the time of his parial ACL tear. The losing man in this shakeup has been receiver James Washington, who has been inconsistent at creating separation on the field.
With no improvements at the trade deadline, Sandusky and Co. has fielded a quartet of Damien Williams, Boston Scott, Rodney Anderson, and Nick Moore (acquired via practice squad signing from Cleveland), who have performed admirably, though do not bring the same pesence as Sanders. This has called for the team to need superstar quarterback Carson Wentz to make more plays, which has resulted in such...in addition to more silly mistakes. The man living in the shadows of Nick Foles has thrown for 295.4 passing yards without young Boobie across five games, with only 227.6 across the games with him in the backfield. He has also thrown for a 9:7 TD ratio in those same games, improving from an 8:12 ratio beforehand.
Heading into an important matchup against the division rival Dallas Cowboys (7-3) the Eagles now look to move the second-year offensive guard Jack Driscoll to start at left tackle. He will be replacing the veteran free agent acquistion Kelvin Beachum, who has struggled to not stand out sorely at times. Driscoll, who started one game at right guard in place of the injured Brandon Brooks (and played in much of another when Brooks initially went down), impressed offensive line coach Jason Peters enough in walkthroughs this week to feel confidence in making the swap after Beachum's performance against the Detroit Lions (4-6), who the Eagles defeated 27-12. Peters has insisted that this was his decision, though rumors have swirled that Sandusky forced his hand because the 76-year old has been allured by Driscroll's performance, given his athleticism, youth, performance, eagerness, pre-game routine...
What will the Eagles look like having now made two starting position changes heading into what can be the game that can shape the outcome of the NFC East? Who will these blocking changes be suited for: Wentz's improvement in the passing game or Sanders's return? Don't watch their week 12 matchup to find out because you'd be insane to watch Madden! Find out here on BDN.
As a disappointing 8-8 Philadelphia Eagles season concludes, Jerry Sandusky and his coaching staff woke up late on New Years Day to glee as the team made several key signings to fill holes. However, their offseason did not begin there. Here is a rundown of the team’s significant moves:
Signings:
Trade:
Free Agency Departures:
Released:
Though there were many losses, the Eagles came away with upgrades at several positions. At linebacker, Williamson is an above-average player that will form a talented duo with Alex Anzalone as the team once again bases out of nickel. Both Jacksons had a falling off this year, however, McCoy is coming off of a ten-sack season whereas Fuller eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in 2020. At cornerback, while Kevin King produced well in the later portion of the season, Jason Verrett is an immediate, temporary upgrade and brings a much-needed veteran presence to the secondary. Lastly, Ngakoue is an elite edge rusher that will pair with McCoy, Fletcher Cox, and Brandon Graham to boast one of the most dangerous front fours in the league.
With these additions, the Eagles have the best overall team in the league on paper (88 ovr; next is the Carolina Panthers with an 86 overall, then the Patriots, Browns, and Cowboys with an 84 each). Yet, they still have holes to fill as the team is without a starting guard for the season. Still, the starting core of this team has been bolstered tremendously by the team’s offseason and if they are able to nab one or two pieces in the draft that can contribute over the course of the season, the Eagles should be in good shape to have playoff success. If they don’t, all efforts will be for naught and the team’s win-now approach will only leave fans to reminisce of the 2012 Dream Team with despair.
With the Cardinals season coming to a close, their offensive firepower has been led by Kyler Murray's emergence as an elite quarterback early into his career. However, a lurking question mark during the year was: "Does he have the talent around him? Should he even start?"
While the actual receivers have proven to be enough, Murray's real receiving threat this year has been his running back, David Johnson, Though Larry Fitzgerald is on his way to another 1,000 receiving yard season as he rides into the sunset, DJ2K (as his teammates call him because of his goals for 2,000 total yards), has already comfortably hit that number before the end of the season. Sitting with 1,106 reception yards on 55 catches, Johnson leads his team in the category while also having a solid 781 yards on the ground. Because of his excellent receiving abilities paired with the woes of the rather-poor Cardinals offensive line, Johnson has made his name as a receiver — not a rusher — this season.
In fact, Johnson leads all running backs in receiving yards, and is currently top-ten amongst all players for that statistic. He also is top-twenty in receptions and receiving yards, only going to further his case for more looks his way from Kyler Murray in Arizona's playoff dreams. However, once Fitzgerald is gone, there will be another 1000/10 to go around ... and then we may be referring to DJ2K as DJ3K.
After 15 games, the rookie quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals has found himself in rare air as the MVP front-runner for the WFL. Kyler Murray, 22, has broken nearly every single rookie passing statistic en route to his likely awards, those of which should also include NFC Offensive Player of the Year, NFC Offensive Rookie of the Year, and NFC Quarterback of the Year Honors.
This season, Murray is the only qualifying quarterback to have single-digit interceptions, and his 135.9 passer rating eclipses that of the league's second place finisher in that category by a whopping 15.4 points (Cam Newton - 120.5). His 68.9% completion percentage to this point also leads the league amongst quarterbacks that have remained on the field for the duration of the 2019 WFL season.
Murray has done this in spite of having one of the worst defenses in the league, often having the weight of the Cardinals season fall upon his young shoulders. Though their defense ranks 24th in points allowed (27), the Cardinals have not scored beneath 21 points in a single game this season. This has been in part to Murray's knack for the end-zone given that he has made a trip at least once in every game this season, whether it is through the air or with his legs.
For now, Murray's only competition for MVP honors is Minnesota's Kirk Cousins, but Murray has nearly 1,000 more passing yards, 11 less interceptions, 300 more rushing touchdowns (in addition to 4 rushing touchdowns), and can also boast a 9% higher completion rate. As for Cousins, he can only boast a three-passing touchdown lead, that of which can be attributed to star running back Dalvin Cook missing time this season, and Adam Thielan's emergence as a truly elite receiver.
If the voters get it wrong, so be it. But as the Cardinals head into Week 17 in a must-win game against a weak Los Angeles team, there is clearly a statistical and eye-appealing favorite for Most Valuable Player, and his name is Kyler Murray.
GLENDALE, AZ — On Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals defeated the Cincinnati Bengals by a score of 50-28. While Arizona is glad to be 4-1 after a tough first five matchups, they are even more impressed by with the early performance of the 2019 draft’s first overall selection, Kyler Murray.
Against the Bengals, Murray’s first pass was intercepted by Rashaan Melvin, and the team was down 14-0. After this, the University of Oklahoma product was nearly perfect as he completed twenty of his next twenty-six passes for 400 yards in addition to 5 touchdowns. He also had his breakout game on the ground, scoring on a 42 yard designed run that the coaching staff drew up for him.
In the face of blitzers, Murray also bode well as he was only sacked once and trusted his receivers to push it downfield. As a result, short-game winners Larry Fitzgerald and David Johnson found the end zone a combined four times on 265 yards.
As it stands, Murray leads all rookies in passing yards (1560) while only being behind Ben Roethlisberger overall (1642). It certainly seems as if he is poised for great individual success rather sooner than later, that of which can help his team continue their winning ways.
After a five-interception performance against the division rival Washington Redskins, quarterback Carson Wentz now sits with a TD/INT ratio of 25:32, leading the league in both categories. This ratio is a result of minuscule help on the ground, poor defense, bad luck, and even worse decisions. Because of this, head coach Jerry Sandusky announced that Week 12 the Philadelphia Eagles will field Brett Hundley as Wentz will be on a short leash.
Hundley, 26, was inked to a two-year deal this offseason to serve as a backup to the franchise quarterback in Wentz, who himself was re-signed recently to a 5-year, $127 million extension. However, he has not lived up to the money paid him thus far. On the other hand, Hundley has seen action in two games this season, completing all three of his passes for 46 total yards. While this is a very small sample size, Sandusky is winless against the Dallas Cowboys and is desperate for a win despite that it would adversely affect the Eagles in terms of draft pick positioning. When asked about this, the legendary coach had to say:
"We suck this year, period. Everybody has underperformed and not lived up to expectations, but it all starts at the QB position. Wentz will play this week but he's been informed that he's on a short leash, maybe the competition will bring the best out of him. With that being said, you should still expect to see Brett get some work while I play with Carson on the sideline."
As Sandusky implied, the whole team generally is doing poorly, which has inspired drastic moves that included the benching of longtime safety Malcolm Jenkins. With injuries to Ronald Darby and Brandon Graham, it will be interesting to see how exactly the coaching staff handles this as the team's defensive depth is depleted.
Tune in Tuesday night at 11 pm est to watch Dallas rape Philadelphia live!
After another stellar game, it was anything but business in the locker room for the now .500 Philadelphia Eagles in the wake of their 43-33 victory over the Chicago Bears. As it stands, their best player is undoubtedly defensive tackle Fletcher Cox. Cox currently has 14 sacks, including a 6 sack performance in Seattle en route to earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week Honors.
Keeping this performance up is not expected of #91, who already has more sacks than he had all of last season (13). However, if he manages to do so, he will finish the year with 37 sacks, five more than the current record that Jadaveon Clowney holds (32).
Tomorrow at 9 pm est you can tune in to catch Cox battle it out in Buffalo as he and the rest of the Eagles squad will look to take advantage of the 0-5 Bills.
KC - CB Malik Allen, Miami: After dealing Marcus Peters to the Rams in the offseason, the Chiefs need to bolster their secondary. Allen is an athletic corner that will not be a liability in man coverage. After an impressive All-Star Game in which he won MVP, Allen has secured his spot as one of the best DBs in the country and will look to transfer those skills into the WFL.
NYG - QB DeJaun Shields, Texas: The Giants went out and got Saquon Barkley along with a trio of new starters along the offensive line, so here they look to upgrade in the passing game as Eli Manning is on the outs. Shields is a quality passer in the short game and has a WFL caliber arm that can reach the likes of Odell Beckham Jr. down the field. While the Texas product isn’t very athletic, he can make throws around the pocket well enough to get the team to 8-8 as is the NYG way.
WAS - LG Ivan Bradford, Penn State: Dumbass CPU is gonna ruin this draft nabbing one of the best OL.
CHI - DE Bradford Cain, Nebraska: CPU grabs a speedy pass rusher that will never play a down of WFL football.
NE - SS Russell Ellis, UCLA: CPU reaches because they suck.
CLE - OLB Rashawn McBride, Texas: YTown wastes pick #6 here as he is foregoing the draft but his team nabs a very nice player that others would like to have but won’t.
PIT - ILB Donnie Clausen, Auburn: With nobody knowing the future of Ryan Shazier (including whatever bonehead does the ratings at EA), Kaz selects his clone in Clausen. Clausen is an athletic freak that should excel in coverage while being a surefire tackler and will be a part of the core for PIT’s rebuild on D.
TB - QB B.J. Clauss, Miami: CPU takes a QB because the CPU can.
DAL - WR DJ Devan, Kansas: The Cowboys WR depth chart hurts my eyes, and it doesn’t help that Sak Prescott is throwing to them (not a typo). The Cowboys get the only first round worthy WR in this draft early as his impressive combine showing shot him up boards. With his speed, he’ll make Prescott look good.
CAR - FS Kentrel Simmons, Clemson: You know what other safeties came out of Clemson? Marcus Gilchrist, Brian Dawkins. In Simmons you can get either one, but Carolina is willing to risk it for the biscuit given their abysmal starters in Colin Jones and Mike Adams. Simmons is a speedy safety that will fly around the field, but his cover skills are yet to be seen.
NO - MLB Javier Barrett, Clemson: Another Clemson player, but this one is a CPU pick so he’ll probably be a 99 overall that sits behind a 43 overall.
ARI - DT Taani Howard, Notre Dame: Although the Cardinals can use OL and a CB, they opt to beef up on the front lines with Howard. Howard is a big, strong man that will wind up manhandling anybody in his way in the NFC West. He’ll be most useful stopping the run but he’ll provide a burst of pass-rush if he’s able to overpower his assignment.
GB - OG Andre Northrup, Clemson: Another damn Clemson guy...but this time he’ll go to good use. With 34 reps, Northrup is one of the strongest OL in this year’s class and he’s an absolute mauler in the run game. He’ll need more technique in order to serve as a reliable blocker up front for Aaron Rodgers, but he seems worthy of developing.
LAC - OT Deshaun McKee, Nebraska: The Chargers have one of the best rosters in this game and will likely move pieces next year to balance out the roster, but the team has ignored the offensive line and get minimal production from their offensive tackles. McKee posted a whopping 37 reps and is a big bodied tackle. He’s a well-versed lineman that will start Day 1 and stand out along that LAC line.
BUF - C Nic Sorensen, Florida: The Bills offense kinda sucks, and I’m sure this season with A.J. McCarron/Josh Allen there will be a lot of hiccups. With two new QBs, we’ll likely see some mishaps, but Sorensen will look to hide that on the interior of the line. He’s a balanced lineman that blocks until the whistle and will help protect the new duo.
DET - ILB George Lopez, Texas A&M: https://youtu.be/KubkTJJbH1Y nuf said.
BAL - HB Casey Cole, Texas A&M: Another back-to-back team here. This pick is for Lamar Jackson to get a new toy on offense as Cole is a shifty back that will usurp Alex Collins easily.
DEN - DL Howard Holt, Florida: While Holt currently plays DE in Florida’s 3-4 defense, I see him best suited as a 4-3 DT when he can showcase his strength by beating bigger guys. Holt is able to beat double teams at a high level and will bring that to a needy Denver interior.
TEN - ILB Jordan Jernigan, Louisville: Although the team drafted Rashaan Evans, the Tennessee front 7 is still lacking and aging. Jernigan brings uncanny strength as a LB while being quick enough to cover. His aggressive playstyle will be what separates him from the others in the AFC South.
IND - TE Sheldon Ingram, Florida: Ingram is a reliable receiver but guess who cares? Not the CPU.
LAR - OLB DeSean Chatman, Wisconsin: The Rams made a plethora of moves to improve on both sides of the ball this offseason, but LB was not one of them. Chatman provides a pass rushing element to their 3-4 defense as a versatile speed rusher. Offensive lines will have trouble with them.
MIN - OT Anton Massie, Alabama: Might as well make sure your fully guaranteed investment doesn’t die like that Keenum did in Philly :D
JAX - OT Christian Hundon, USC: CPU doing CPU things.
NYJ - OLB Michael Purnell, Oregon: The Jets spent a lot of money this offseason with sights on the future, and Purnell fits into what they’re looking to do. Being a player who can rush or drop back into coverage, Purnell will hunt down ballcarriers and find a way onto the field come Week 1.
SF - ILB Jabriel Wilkins, Alabama: First off, Jabriel is the best name I’ve ever heard. It’s unisex and seems like a debate between Gabriel and some girly name with a J. So he’s probably the first transgender player in the history of football. Don’t let his soft skin fool you though as he is a menace on the field with his big-play ability and speed. When he knocks you out, it’ll be more Bill Cosby than Ray Lewis.
MIA - OG Bryan Lutrus, Georgia: The Dolphins need just about everything as in 4 seasons they’ll likely only have about 3-5 of these players still around, but Lutrus may be one that sticks. He’s a solid run blocker who can hold his man but he’s a poor pass blocker and will need to work on that with their cocaine-sniffing offensive line coach before being effective in that area.
OAK - CB Marshall Billingsly, Alabama: Billingsly decided to skip the combine, leaving character concerns, but in Oakland that isn’t an issue...it’s even welcomed. While the tape on him says he is a press-man corner, it is yet to be seen how well he can run in his underwear so it’ll be interesting to see him tested against top WFL receivers.
SEA - DE Derek Charleston, Clemson: Being the fourth Clemson pick in this year’s first round, Charleston will be facing an uphill battle as his only quality athletic feature is his strength and he relies on it too much. While that may work in college, he’ll need more finesse to make it in the WFL. Despite that, he is still an able run stopper with plenty of potential to be a clog in the middle of that line.
PHI - SS Santez Fuller, Stanford: Fuller is more of a deep safety as he boasts speed and good coverage, but his run support is lacking and his athleticism isn’t quite there to cover guys like Jordan Reed and Evan Engram. Nevertheless, Philadelphia sees something in him while also realizing Rodney McLeod isn’t quite worth his contract.
HOU - C Bryant Forbath, Georgia: Forbath is a dominant run blocker with the combination of technique and strength, but he needs to be able to stay on his man as a pass blocker and will struggle at first. He’ll definitely learn in Houston and be a mainstay in the interior of their line.
ATL - DE Decatur Wallace, Ole Miss: Wallace is one of the most powerful young men coming in this year, but that is due to him being older than the rest at 24 years old. However, with that comes experience and Atlanta needs the best possible players now in order to bring them over the hump.
CIN - CB Antuan Russell, Alabama: Russell is a fast, athletic corner with a long frame. Hailing from the defense factory that is Alabama, he’ll thrive in Cincinnati.
Last year I got one pick right, so this time I’ll get 32.
At the conclusion of the 2019 WFL regular season, there are a lot of teams sitting aroung waiting for the offseason. For some however, their cornerstones are already set and will continue to build off of some promising talent next season. Here is my personal All-Pro team for this regular season.
Disclaimer - I know you’re going to hate me because I snubbed your guy, that’s fine.
Offense:
Quarterback - Derek O’Connell, Houston Texans
Running Back - Petey Jones, Miami Dolphins
Flex - Matt Newell, Tennessee Titans
Wide Receiver - DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans; Tavon Austin, Los Angeles Rams
Tight End - Jordan Reed, Washington Redskins
Left Tackle - Laremy Tunsil, Miami Dolphins
Left Guard - Antonio Leroy, Atlanta Falcons
Center - Nick Martin, Houston Texans
Right Guard - Isaac Asiata, Miami Dolphins
Right Tackle - Hunter Gerberry, Los Angeles Chargers
Defense:
Edge Rushers - Connel McGregor, Miami Dolphins; Cameron Jordan, New Orleans Saints
Interior Linemen - Stephon Tuitt, Los Angeles Chargers; Willie Browner, Minnesota Vikings
Linebackers - C.J Mosley, Baltimore Ravens; Mark Barron, Los Angeles Rams
Cornerbacks - Chris Harris Jr., Philadelphia Eagles; Jamal Agnew, Cincinnati Bengals
Safeties - Malik Hooker, Indianapolis Colts; Landon Collins, New York Giants
Special Teams:
Placekicker - Caleb Sturgis, Minnesota Vikings
Punter - Matt Haack, Philadelphia Eagles
Kick Returner - Harvey Richards, Atlanta Falcons
Punt Returner - Adoree’ Jackson, Tennessee Titans
As the second season concludes here in the WFL, it is time for us to better our rosters in order to field a better team that we had previously; some guys are only here to build a good roster. Obviously you will find better talent in the free agency, but if you want cheap, young, glitchy, unworldly, developmental players then the draft is for you! I’m sort of a draft guru, so owners that are reading can just go based off of this to set up their draft boards. But enough background, here’s my WFL Mock Draft 1.0!
Denver Broncos - QB Joey Stepanovich, Oregon
Simply put, team cannot contend without a quality quarterback. The incumbent Trevor Siemian will be skipping town, and it is likely too late to progress Paxton Lynch or Chad Kelly in a stout AFC West. Drafting Stepanovich gives the Broncos offense a much needed boost as their air attack ranked 30th in the league; look for that to change.
Arizona Cardinals - QB Cole Snyder, Stanford
“O Hamlet, what a falling off was there!” From being an NFC Wild Card team to winning just three games in 2019, the Arizona Cardinals will likely move on from QB Carson Palmer, who missed time this season. Snyder is a QB that will bring liveliness to Arizona and will not be scared of pressure from the Seahawks, Rams, or 49ers. Under Snyder, Arizona will be back to their winning ways.
New England Patriots - LOLB Vaughn Dean, Louisville
Derrick Rivers and Shea McClellin are simply uninspiring to put next to the superstar that is Dont’a Hightower. Dean, 21, is already a polished pass rusher that will help the Patriots go from zero to hero in the AFC East.
New York Jets - WR Malik Porter, Texas A&M
What’s this, another AFC East team in the top 5? With the surge of the Miami Dolphins and their MVP in HB Aaron Scherff, the Jets must give Jameis Winston weapons, as his targets are uninspiring. Porter will immediately be the WR1 and brings explosiveness to the otherwise lackluster Jets offense.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - FS Jerel Council
After addressing the offensive side of the ball by drafting Conor Berg and trading for Duane Brown, it is time for the Buccaneers secondary to be addressed. The entire group is unremarkable, so in comes Council. Council will step into the defense as the strong safety with toughness, eagerness, and a will to win. He will give the Bucs a longtime piece of the puzzle in their journey to winning the NFC South.
Dallas Cowboys - CB Raysean Fields, Stanford
Competing with Alshon Jeffery, Devante Parker, Odell Beckham Jr., and Jamison Crowder is not something just anybody can do, and one reason the Cowboys have had little success is because they have been unable to defend the pass at times. Raysean Fields is easily the best cover corner in this years draft, and at 6’2 he will be able to compete with anybody thrown at him. He can start on the outside from Day 1 opposite Chidobe Awuzie and attempt to strike fear into foes.
New Orleans Saints - MLB Deontae Sanford, Tennessee
The Saints defense isn’t known for being good; it’s known for trying to kill Brett Favre. However, with the selection of LB Deontae Sanford, perhaps that narrative can be rewritten. Sanford is an athletic, aggressive linebacker that will be an asset on all three downs and will certainly be the most noticeable player on defense.
Pittsburgh Steelers - QB Lane Rutledge, Tennessee
Le’Veon Bell, Antonio Brown, and Martavis Bryant all need somebody to run the offense, and at 37 years old, Ben Roethlisberger is not the man to do so. However, Rutledge is the answer to all woes here. Rutledge is a pure west coast quarterback as he excels while moving around, however his lack of arm strength may work against him. In Pittsburgh Rutledge will be provided the opportunity to feed off of the immense talent around him and be the next franchise QB for the Steelers.
Detroit Lions - DT Marshawn Oldham, Louisville
If you give up 152 rushing yards a game, you have a problem. That problem however will be looked to be mediated by Marshawn Oldham, the powerful defensive tackle that will knock your socks off. Whether it’s a 3-4 or 4-3, Oldham will be the anchor in the middle of the defensive line for years to come as he will dominate in the trenches.
Tennessee Titans - LT Malcolm Spikes, LSU
Down in Tennessee, it’s all smoke and mirrors. The beautifully put together roster has been largely ineffective as their season yielded just six wins. QB Marcus Mariota was sacked 39 times and threw 30 interceptions, so the Titans here will pluck the first offensive lineman off the board with Spikes. Spikes is a pure pass blocker that boasts versatility, and it is likely he would kick in to guard for the Titans. Not only will he help Mariota, but he can also seek to maintain the Titans’ rushing success, as they ranked 7th in the league in rushing yards per game.
Carolina Panthers - LE Ray Raymer, Ohio State
The Panthers have a lot of needs...cornerback, tight end, wide receiver, and perhaps even running back. However, here in the WFL you need elite pass rushers in order to compete, and so the Panthers will snag the top defensive end in this year’s pool. Unlike Mario Addison and Charles Johnson, Raymer is an overbearing force that will be able to beat tackles with surprisingly agile moves.
Los Angeles Chargers - QB Camdren Sparks, Ole Miss
With the looming retirement of Phillip Rivers, the Chargers must bring in a new guy to ignite the offense in L.A. Sparks is a capable passer inside and outside of the pocket, and is perhaps the most NFL ready of the bunch, but at 24 years old other teams may be a bit shy to bring him in, but with a win-now roster and mentality coach Brown is willing to bring him in.
Buffalo Bills - LT Alexander Masthay, Wisconsin
Quarterback? Check. Receivers? Eh. O-Line? Nope. That’s the sitch up in Buffalo. C Richie Incognito has seen his best days, and Cordy Glenn cannot do it all on his own. No matter how average everyone else on offense is, a good offensive line can make them look like stars (see: Dak Prescott). Alexander Masthay is used to the cold, and his ability to maul defenders will be honed in on for the Bills.
Minnesota Vikings - RG Casey Clement, Louisville
Trading Dalvin Cook to Houston? Dumb. The young star could have hid the woes of the Vikings offensive line, but in their defense Latavius Murray did have 1,314 yards and 11 touchdowns...but now what? The line is one of the worst in the WFL and two starters are on the wrong side of 30. Drafting Clement is inevitable—this is my surefire pick. Clement can start anywhere on the line that he wants to because he has the height and weight to suffice at 6’4, 300lbs. Clement is one of the best linemen in this class and his mark will be left on the Vikings offense that let their fragile QB get sacked 31 times.
Kansas City Chiefs - RE Demetrious Cotton, Ole Miss
Like the Cardinals and Vikings, the Chiefs last year were a playoff team. That’s what happens when your defensive ends aren’t capable of much. Demetrious Cotton will head to KC blending into the scheme that Coach Mix runs and will likely terrorize Derek Carr until he goes into hiding with his brother.
New York Giants - HB Jordan Adams, Oklahoma
NYG has never had a stud in the backfield...ever. Not a quarterback, not a running back, don’t @ me. Sorry. However, this is their chance! Adams is a dominant back as he will reek of cheese in the Giants offense. His speed and big play ability will thrust him into a position to take the focus off of Beckham Jr. and will negate the lack of a reliable signal caller.
Baltimore Ravens - WR Griffin Jarrett, Texas A&M
Although he is the inferior of the two A&M wide-outs, Jarrett is certainly not to be underestimated. Jarrett is a crisp route runner with the good hands ready for the WFL. Usurping Jeremy Maclin, Mike Wallace, and Breshad Perriman, Griffin Jarrett will be a high-upside volume receiver for Baltimore.
San Francisco 49ers - RE Pierre Goodson, Notre Dame
You’ll narrowly miss the playoffs when you have big weaknesses, and that is the example here with the 49ers. One Solomon Thomas is not good enough—you need two. This Irishman is quick off the line of scrimmage and will take advantage of the poor pass protection in the NFC West and will pair with other young studs along the front-seven to give quarterbacks nightmares.
Indianapolis Colts - LE Joseph Bartel, Michigan State
The Colts don’t have one scary player on defense...not one. However, the day of the draft that will change as Joseph Bartel is a superb pass rusher that also puts in 100% on every play in order to make a play behind the line of scrimmage. Bartel will make his impact known the second he walks onto the stage to meet Winuvas.
Cleveland Browns - SS Bennett Arnold, Penn State
Jerry Sandusky didn’t get to this one, and if he did, he would have just cracked him. Arnold is the perfect complement to Jabrill Peppers as is a surefire tackler all over the field. Together, the two of them will be one of the best safety duos in the league.
Chicago Bears - WR Eduardo House, Florida State
Okay, you drafted Mitchell Trubisky. Now...you know young (or any) QBs can’t throw to rocks, right? Shockingly, the Bears have had moderate success in the NFC, but all without sniffing the playoffs, this can be credited to having no help in the receiving game outside of Cameron Meredith. Eduardo House can kick it into top-gear and will take the top off of the NFC North.
Jacksonville Jaguars - TE Shanard Buckley, Oklahoma
When you think about Jordan Adams and Shanard Buckley in the same offense, you may notice a wet spot. Buckley is the spectacular, generational tight end that cannot be missed. At 6’6, 264, Buckley is a pure receiver that will reign hell onto defenses and will complete the Jags offense.
Washington Redskins - LOLB James Cruz, Georgia
If you can bring a guy down, get off a block, and cover in the WFL, you’re going to be very successful. With a barely acceptable level of talent on defense, Washington will add the modern-day linebacker James Cruz to the front seven, so look for him to be in the middle of a budding squad for the long-term.
Cincinnati Bengals - CB Shalden Hoyte, USC
Well, this is the first pick you may scratch your head with. Hoyte isn’t your traditional first-round pick, but to Coach Woods he is the only option. He is a speedy man corner with good size...what else can you ask? He’ll look to bolster one of the bottom DB corps in the league and will likely compete for the CB1 job with Dre Kirkpatrick.
Houston Texans - DT De’Arius Stone
The Texans are one of the more complete teams in the WFL, and have two solid rookie defensive tackles in Cooper Stimson and Anton Tate. However, those two guys are not De’Arius Stone. Stone is just 21 years old, so he does not have to be pushed into the starting lineup, but he will be ready when his name is called as he already appears to be more of a force than Stimson or Tate.
Philadelphia Eagles - WR Walter McCoy, Ole Miss
Best. WR. Ever. Just kidding. In Philadelphia, the team has other needs such as safety, but with no worthwhile players in need positions on the board the team will look to the future with Walter McCoy. Outside of Jeffery and Parker, the Eagles will see Robby Anderson and Nelson Agholor hit free agency and may prefer to draft a replacement than cough up big bucks. McCoy is a receiver capable of playing inside or outside as he has WFL standard hands and can brush off a corner, so the way he will be utilized will be an interesting story to watch in the City of Brotherly Love.
Green Bay Packers - WR Dilen Wimbley, Tennessee
Although they traded for Keenan Allen and have Davante Adams, the Packers can certainly use the “WR of the Future.” Jordy Nelson’s future with the team remains to be seen, and Tajee Sharpe seeing significant playing time is not ideal. Being one of the most complete rosters in the league and their needs not being available this late in the first round, Wimbley is a reasonable addition as he is an excellent route runner and a hand-catcher, which is the priority when you play in Lambeau.
Los Angeles Rams - MLB Percy Simon, Michigan State
After drafting Demonte Driver last year (who has excelled), the Rams still look for help in the front seven as their two outside linebackers will evidently decline. Although they can use help at defensive end and cornerback, they are dried up here and thus go BPA which also meets a need. Simon will fight for time on the field early on but has the abilities to do so as he is an old-school linebacker when it comes to physicality yet still has the quickness to hang with RBs and TEs.
Atlanta Falcons - LT J.C. Wallace, Florida
Although Atlanta has a talented line, they start three expensive 30+ year olds that have seen their best days fade. Wallace, 24, is a WFL ready starter and at 6’7, 335, he is the nasty mauling tackle that will hold his blocks for Matt Ryan & Co. to do their thing better than Michael Oher in The Blind Side.
Miami Dolphins - WR Stehle Maxwell, Alabama
The Dolphins gave a third round rookie 350 carries (MVP despite 4.9ypc) because #1 Ryan Tannehill is incompetent and impotent, and #2 their receivers are ‘eh.’ Maxwell is no superstar, but he is certainly a step up for the Miami offense that averaged less than 178 passing yards a game (27th in the league). The Nick Saban product is a reliable target that shows signs of flashiness and will be the perfect starter opposite Jarvis Landry.
Seattle Seahawks - LG Andres Giffels, Oregon
Giffels protected Joey Stepanovich, who will be the #1 pick in the draft, so he has already proven able to serve under a pro QB. Giffels is as developmental as they come, as he does not boast extraordinary strength, but he is an able run blocker at this point and when he gets locked-in, you will not leave his grasp. However, his pass blocking needs to be tuned, which will be worked on with the defending Super Bowl champs.
Oakland Raiders - DT Tyre Leggett, Stanford
If you go 16-0, you likely don’t need too much—the Raiders are no exception. What they can use though is a proven run stopper in the trenches. With no other worthy players at positions of need, the Raiders will likely use Leggett to pass Eddie Vanderdoes on the depth chart and then eventually Mario Edwards Jr.
MOST LIKELY TRADE UP CANDIDATES: PACKERS, RAMS, RAIDERS
MOST LIKELY TRADE DOWN CANDIDATES: BUCCANEERS, TITANS, CHIEFS
After the 2017 WFL Season that saw the Seattle Seahawks defeat the Oakland Raiders 15-12 in the Super Bowl, the offseason is officially here. Here we will be sorting through the top 10 free agents that you can sign right now.
At the premium position of cornerback, Dre Commings will likely be the most sought after free agent this year. Commings is coming out of a season in which he only had five interceptions, but that is not the entire story. The speedy 26 year old corner out of UL Monroe was able to stay with the best of wide receivers and is due for a big pay day this year whether it be with another contender or Mark Davis' stupid looking ass.
Early favorites to land him: Oakland Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets
Despite being 31 years old now, Graham is still a force to be reckoned with at the tight end position. Graham had a disappointing stint in Seattle and the front office decided against keeping him around, however he can help most teams in this league.
Early favorites to land him: Indianapolis Colts, Green Bay Packers, Denver Broncos
For a player of his caliber, Parson, like Graham, had a disappointing season; however he was on a 2-14 team, unlike Graham, who now has a ring. Parson recorded a meager four sacks this past season, but his best play lies ahead if he can get into the proper 4-3 based team although the Cowboys are heavy favorites to retain him after Jerry Jones accidentally deleted his phone number because of his alzheimer's.
Early favorites to land him: Dallas Cowboys, Tennessee Titans, Las Angeles Rams
Burfict is going to command big dollars in free agency, or else he'll try to kill you probably. Aside from his aggression that can cost him at times, Burfict is a very quality linebacker that can do everything from rush the passer to drop back in coverage. Burfict only recorded three sacks and three forced fumbles this season with the Cincinnati Bengals, who let him test free agency. He will now look to find a new home.
Early favorites to land him: Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, New York Giants
Hyde was underutilized on a team that traded for a younger running back midseason and that could have used his services in tight games. While averaging 4.6 ypc, Hyde only got 118 rushes for the San Fransisco 49ers. The Ohio State product will now go to a backfield that appreciates him more.
Early favorites to land him: Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Indianapolis Colts
The former Rams, Eagles, and Vikings quarterback is still searching for stability in his career as he finds himself once again in a bind without a team. Now 30, Bradford wants to settle down with a winning team that will consider him to be 'the guy,' after he evidently lost out to Teddy Bridgewater in Minnesota.
Early favorites to land him: Jacksonville Jaguars, Baltimore Ravens, New Orleans Saints
Is an explanation needed? Brees is approaching his last years and is hungry for another ring. Brees is a prolific passer that can easily bring electricity through the air with his arm if given the right scheme and players around him.
Early favorites to land him: Denver Broncos, New Orleans Saints, Jacksonville Jaguars
Ware did the equivolent of nothing this season and is going to leave the Kansas City Chiefs in order to find a role he can carve out on offense. Jack of all but master of none, Ware should be able to swiftly find a team to bring him in.
Early favorites to land him: Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins
With his tag team partner above of him in this list, Snead burst onto the NFL scene as an undrafted free agent with NOLA because of the powers of Brees. Another one on this list, the talented receiver had a lackluster 2017 outing as he barely eclipsed half of 1,000 yards, although this may be the product of a bottom-feeding team.
Early favorites to land him: Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints
10. CB Brent Grimes
Perhaps the most available quality defensive back on the open market today is the 35 year old Brent Grimes. He is a wonder to still be kicking the tread, but he is gracefully doing so. Last season Grimes had a career-high nine interceptions and now looks to go to a more winning team. Grimes is likely a candidate to move over to safety this year as he is aging and thus his athletic abilities are dwindling.
Early favorites to land him: Philadelphia Eagles, New Orleans Saints, Cincinnati Bengals
NOTABLES:
Before you carry on, these percentages are certainly imperfect as they do not represent Madden well nor do can they tend to anything user related; what they DO do though is accurately portray the history of the NFL since 1995 and each playoff team's record. For example, the Falcons are 8-0 currently, and every 8-0 team since 1995 has made the playoffs, thus their 100% marking. Can they lose every game and go 8-8 and miss out? Sure. But it's unlikely to happen as they've established themselves as a dominant team in the league, such as any 8-0 team has. So without further ado, here is your 2017 season playoff percentages as of week 10.
AFC NORTH
Browns (5-3) - 63%
Bengals (4-4) - 30%
Steelers (2-6) - 0%
Ravens (1-8) - 0%
AFC South
Texans (8-0) - 100%
Colts (5-4) - 47%
Jaguars (3-5) - 10%
Titans (0-8) - 0%
AFC East
Jets (6-3) - 72%
Dolphins (5-4) - 47%
Bills (4-4) - 30%
Patriots (2-6) - 0%
AFC West
Raiders (8-1) - 100%
Chiefs (6-3) - 72%
Broncos (4-4) - 30%
Chargers (1-7) - 0%
NFC North
Vikings (8-0) - 100%
Bears (5-3) - 63%
Packers (4-4) - 30%
Lions (3-5) - 10%
NFC South
Falcons (8-0) - 100%
Panthers (4-5) - 14%
Saints (1-7) - 0%
Buccaneers (0-9) - 0%
NFC East
Eagles (6-3) - 72%
Redskins (5-3) - 63%
Giants (4-4) - 30%
Cowboys (1-7) - 0%
NFC West
Cardinals (8-0) - 100%
49ers (5-4) - 47%
Seahawks (4-4) - 30%
Rams (3-5) - 10%
Now here is the playoff schedule if they playoffs started this week.
AFC
1. Texans
2. Raiders
3. Jets
4. Browns
5. Chiefs
6. Colts
NFC
1. Cardinals
2. Falcons
3. Vikings
4. Eagles
5.Redskins
6.Bears
AFC Scheduling
WILD CARD
(#6)Colts@(#3)Jets
(#5)Chiefs@(#4)Browns
DIVISIONAL
Highest seed vs. Raiders
Lowest seed vs. Texans
NFC Scheduling
WILD CARD
(#6)Bears@(#3)Vikings
(#5)Redskins@(#4)Eagles
DIVISIONAL
Highest seed vs. Falcons
Lowest seed vs. Cardinals