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Post by MGB01 on Mar 3, 2008 17:43:58 GMT -5
BIRMINGHAM BOLTS
QB: Casey Clausen, Darrell Hackney
The Bolts' biggest drawback in their 2-10 crash of '07 was the QB spot. Ken Dorsey was terrible, and while Clausen had a pulse the Bolts werem't enamored with him as their only win in six games came in the final game against a Hitmen squad that clearly had other things on their agenda. Hackney, who has never thrown a regular season pass, will serve a two-game suspension this season after an offseason DUI arrest.
RB: Cedric Cobbs, Rashon Powers-Neal, Tyrone Moss
Cobbs had a career year in his first as a #1 back, rushing for 673 yards (5.1 per carry) with a weaker line. If his workload increases to 20 carries per game he should come in around 1000 yards. Powers-Neal did not have a carry in 2007 and Moss, an undrafted free agent, did not perform well and probably won't be back.
WR: Sinorice Moss, Roscoe Parrish, Brandon Myles, Chris Davis, Darnell Jenkins, Devin Aromashadu
Talk about bad timing: the Bolts gave former first-round pick Roscoe Parrish a contract extension in February, then a few days after that he was pulled over on suspicion of a DUI and will serve a two-game suspension in '08. Brandon Myles, who was second on the team in receiving, will step in for Parrish during his suspension and could usurp Parrish's role if he isn't careful. Davis and Jenkins (UFA) had strong rookie campaigns, as Davis had 40 catches and tied for the team lead with four touchdowns and Jenkins became the team's punt return man. Aromashadu, who did not have a catch as some of his '07 was lost due to a shoulder injury, should be able to get back in the fold.
TE: Jerramy Stevens, Cole Bennett, Terry Jones
Former NFL first-round pick Stevens had a decent first season down south, but his past caught up with him again and he'll have to serve a one-game suspension resulting from his DUI arrest in March 2007 (the case was resolved in October), meaning Cole Bennett, who had one reception in 2007, could be in for a larger role or the Bolts could go to the draft for one. Such action would likely be the end for Terry Jones, who is used almost exclusively as a blocking tight end.
OL: Travelle Wharton, Justin Blalock, Cosey Coleman, Calvin Armstrong, Ben Wilkerson, Brian Johnson, Kelvin Chaisson
The Bolts were hit for the second straight offseason with a defection from the line when all-XFL center Alex Stepanovich moved to division rival Kansas City. However this time they were more than able to offset it by signing Wharton, who will move in at left tackle and will allow Calvin Armstrong, who looked overmatched at times, to move to the right side. Blalock, an all-rookie selection in 2007, moves to left guard as only Coleman, heading into the last year of his deal, remains in in his '07 place. Wilkerson, who spent his first three seasons as long snapper, takes over at center.
DL: Elvis Dumervil, Anttaj Hawthorne, Robert Geathers, Spencer Johnson, Tommy Jackson, Larry Birdine, Jeremy Clark
Again the Bolts took a blow in free agency here, losing Igor Olshansky to Los Angeles. They replace him with Geathers, an emerging end who is a size dropoff from Olshansky but should be able, playing next to Hawthorne and Dumervil (a combined 21 sacks in '07), to get his share of QB hurries. Birdine is a good young player that has a chance to develop, while Johnson, who has valuable starting experience, was wisely re-signed. Jackson and Clark, both former UFAs, are both replaceable.
LB: LaMarr Woodley, Courtney Watson, Roderick Green, Rod Davis, Kamichael Hall, Terry Pierce, Travis Williams, Tony Taylor
The one place the Bolts were able to upgrade in the offseason without any serious losses was at the linebacker position, most notably their inside, where injuries were beginning to catch up with veteran Ed Hartwell and Donnie Spragan was let go as well. In their place come Watson, a versatile linebacker who can play outside or inside (having done both in Jacksonville) and Davis, who missed virtually all of 2007 with San Francisco but may be best-suited for a 3-4 defense at this point in his career. Woodley had a tremendous rookie year, especially against the run, and could be headed for big things in his second season. Green has bulked up from 245 to 270 and gives the Bolts not only two strong outside linebackers to work with but two players who they can also rotate in and out on the defensive line. Hall may have a bead as the top performer on the reserve unit after a five-sack rookie campaign, and Taylor has strong upside as well.
DB: Fred Bennett, Ahmad Hawkins, Pig Prather, Guss Scott, Brandon Mitchell, Charlie Peprah
Bennett's seven interceptions was second in the league and he looked like he should have been the starter all along, having begun the season behind Kelly Herndon, who was released shortly before free agency began. Ahmad Hawkins is a solid cover corner that was the star of a dismal unit in '07. The hope is that Prather's arrival will change that and help Scott return to his 2004-05 form. Mitchell and Peprah are strong special teams players, with Peprah being a darkhorse candidate for a starting job in case Scott can't quite pick his play back up.
ST: Connor Hughes (K), Chris Davis (KR), Darnell Jenkins (PR)
The Bolts will go looking for a punter after losing Donnie Jones to Detroit. Hughes has been hit-or-miss his first two years in the league and the team, who had Billy Cundiff in during 2007, will look for either someone to handle kickoffs or maybe even a replacement. Davis and Jenkins both stabilized a return game that had been an adventure the year prior.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. QB-Word has surfaced that the Bolts are possibly interested in taking Louisville's Brian Brohm with the first pick. Also, the Bolts have been looking at trading for veteran passer (such as Michael Bishop of Orlando). Whomever is the starter in '08 will be a bridge to whomever they draft.
2. RB-The buzz in the offseason was that the Bolts would go running back with the #1 pick but that's seemingly changed, in part because of the depth of the class and because of their quarterback issues in 2007. Whomever they draft will become the #2 back.
3. CB-The two starting corners are presently the only two corners on the roster, so the Bolts will try to get some late-FA shopping done for some depth or, most likely, it will come through the draft.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 3, 2008 18:00:37 GMT -5
CAROLINA COLONELS
QB: Ricky Ray, Kurt Warner, Kyle Orton
When the Colonels hired Mike Martz as their new head coach, Ray was doing everything short of backflips. He already threw for a league-leading 3883 yards, Martz' system might put him over 4000. The Colonels signed Warner, the league's leading passer in 2005, to be the backup. Orton (among others) flamed out as starter in 2006, leading the Colonels to trade for Ray in the first place but could benefit from Warner's presence.
RB: Jason Brookins, T.A. McLendon, John Avery, Oliver Hoyte
The natural inclination will be to look at Brookins, who led the league with 1680 total yards, as a Marshall Faulk-type, Brookins had a slow start to his 2006 campaign, costing him a 1000-yard season but came back to top the 1000-yard mark in 2007. Avery, the league's first rushing champion, has seemingly dropped off the map but could be in line for a comeback season with McLendon out two games after an offseason drug arrest and how he recovers. Hoyte, a converted linebacker, will remain as an exclusive blocker
WR: Terrence Edwards, Jerricho Cotchery, Jason Geathers, Jason Anderson, Davon Fowlkes, David Ball
This unit became the first in XFL history to feature four wideouts all averaging over 15 yards per catch. Cotchery's eight touchdowns led the way and while Edwards is the #1 receiver, Cotchery is the "1b" at this point. A surprise here was Anderson, used mostly as a return man in his first two seasons. The former Wake Forest star had five touchdowns and averaged 23.3 yards per catch on 14 receptions. Both Anderson and Geathers were re-signed despite the fact that Geathers was drawing interest elsewhere. Two FCS products, Fowlkes and Ball, are intriguing prospects. Ball just missed making the team in '07 but was retained on the practice squad. Both will have their chance with Martz.
TE: Clark Harris, Joel Dreessen
Tight ends usually are barely visible in Martz' offense, so anybody looking for a repeat of Harris' 37-catch rookie season is probably out of luck. Dreessen may find himself odd man out because rarely does a Martz offense need two tight ends, other than as extra blockers.
OL: Sean Locklear, Kevin Boothe, Manuel Ramirez, Daryn Colledge, Pat Ross, Junius Coston, Jarvis Borum, Brandon Frye, Chris Colmer, Jason Gamble
Since giving up 40 sacks in 2005, the Colonels have undertaken a youth movement of sorts in the last two drafts and it has seemed to pay off. The '06 draft class brought then Colledge, Boothe, and Ross, all of whom became starters as rookies, and '07 brought them Ramirez, a feisty player who was an all-rookie selection at left guard. Locklear, the "old man" of the group, was re-signed so the '07 group returns intact. Had Locklear moved on, Frye would likely have become the starter at right tackle. The rest of the second unit is comprised of four former starters, giving the Colonels the luxury of having perhaps the best offensive line depth in the league but how many are still on the roster in May is up for discussion.
DL: George Gause, Claude Wroten, Dusty Dvoracek, Paul Toviessi, Terrance Martin, Paul Soliai, Grady Jackson
The Colonels, out of answers defensively in '07, will try a 3-4 set in '08. This means an overhaul on the defensive line. Wroten and Dvoracek will slide over to end to maximize their pass rushing skills, rotating with Gause, who doesn't seem to have what it takes as an every-down DE but new defensive coordinator Mike Haluchak thinks he can increase the former first rounder's productivity by lessening his role. Massive second-year man Paul Soliai has the first shot at the nose tackle although the Colonels are certainly in the market for more help, having also added veteran Jackson.
LB: Manny Lawson, Lee Jackson, Jon Abbate, Ryan Fowler, Zak DeOssie, Greg Richmond, Justin Ena
After two seasons at his college position, Lawson will make the switch to outside linebacker, theoretically, he'll be able to provide even more of a pass rush not having to take the bulk of the opposing line push. Jackson has led the team in tackles three straight seasons. Fowler lost his job to Abbate and then was bothered by a shoulder injury, but he'll be good to for '08. Re-signing Richmond and Ena was vital for depth purposes, since most of the remaining available options on the market were dim. DeOssie was looking at becoming a starter in his second year (before Jackson re-signed), he may still get that opportunity.
DB: Brian Williams, Shaun Byrdsong, Siddeeq Shabazz, Andre Maddox,, A.J. Davis, Dovonte Edwards, Dee Webb, Dexter McCleon, Marcus Hudson, Zach Catanese
Williams signed a huge contract to return to Tobacco Road two offseasons ago after winning an X-Bowl with the Outlaws. The Colonels have hardly gotten a return on their investment because Williams has been banged up, and he has just three interceptions in two seasons. Byrdsong seemed to be on the market forever, and the Colonels got him for a bargain price as a result. He'll be the #2 corner and that will create a logjam for the nickel spot, with Davis, Edwards, and Webb competing. Davis, who actually ended the '07 season as a starter, will have the early bead. Shabazz is a huge upgrade over Jarrell Weaver at strong safety, and the Colonels will have a potent safety duo with Shabazz and Maddox.
ST: Michael Husted (K), Jason Baker (P), Danny Young (LS), Jason Anderson (KR), Terrence Edwards (PR)
Husted will be 38 two days after the Colonels' fourth game (vs Dallas) but the Colonels wouldn't mind if he plays until he's 48 the way he kicks. The only kicker in franchise history, Husted has hit a remarkable 89.8% of his field goal attempts. With that in mind, the team brought back Young, the only long snapper in franchise history, in late February. Baker averaged just 40.4 yards per punt, hardly his best season, and the Colonels might be in the market for an upgrade. The return game continues to be a strength, as Anderson finished with a 25.1 average, including a 52-yard return that set up a game-winng field goal as the Colonels won their season opener for the first time ever, and Edwards' 18.5 punt return average led the league.
DRAFT NEEDS
1. CB-The team solved the need for a #2 corner when they signed Byrdsong. Now they need Williams to play up to his billing when they signed him two offseasons ago. The Byrdsong signing lessened the need somewhat for an impact corner in the mold of Aqib Talib, but with the rest of the unit untested it would be wise to cover themselves.
2. DE/OLB-Gause hasn't really become the pass rusher the Colonels would have liked (one reason for the move to the 3-4), and while sliding Dvoracek and Wroten to the outside may address that, the team could probably use one more 'tweener although Richmond could cover that. There will be a need eventually for another big honker at the nose tackle, so that could substitute in priority.
3. WR-This is Mike Martz we're talking about after all. But Cotchery will get a big payday in the offseason that the Colonels might not be able to give.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 3, 2008 18:00:56 GMT -5
CHICAGO ENFORCERS
QB: Trent Edwards, Joey Harrington, Omar Jacobs
The possibility of Edwards becoming the starter in his rookie season was remote considering the Enforcers had Jacobs, Matt Mauck, and signed the former NFL first-round pick Harrington as insurance. But Mauck had a so-so preseason and was released, Jacobs struggled through the first half of his first full season as a starter before Harrington replaced him. Harrington was equally as disastrous, although a case can be made that his teammates didn't help him out much. Edwards started the season finale at Detroit and showed some promise. Harrington will be entering the second year of a three-year deal but is unlikely to return, leaving Edwards, Jacobs, and either another free-agent pickup or a draftee.
RB: Michael Turner, Saladin McCullough, Brian Calhoun, Brian Leonard, Matt Bernstein
Turner was doomed from the beginning in '07 as he faced the league's best run D in Kansas City and ended up losing the starting job to McCullough but reclaimed the job towards the end of the season. Leonard could possibly replace McCullough as the backup as he really isn't a prototype fullback. Bernstein has a place on the roster as the Enforcers see him as more of an H-back. Calhoun has struggled to find a role and stay healthy.
WR: Kelley Washington, Luke Leverson, Maurice Stovall, Roy Hall, Jordan Kent
Washington, who blossomed in his third and fourth years, regressed back to 34 catches but is still the team's big-play threat, averaging 18.4 yards per catch. Stovall has a good size/speed combo and could challenge for a statrting job. Leverson had another solid year, the team would like to keep him in the slot. Hall and Kent are the projects here, although Kent has great potential, his one reception in '07 went for 45 yards.
TE: Ben Troupe, Jonny Harline
Troupe hasn't really developed as the Enforcers have wanted but with slim pickings on the market Troupe was re-signed. Harline had a touchdown reception but the Enforcers will make this a need area in the draft after only getting 16 catches from this position.
OL: Tarlos Thomas, Melvin Paige, Khalif Barnes, Elton Brown, Tim Duckworth, Ryan Kalil, Zach Strief, Bob Morton
Thomas is the anchor of the line and continues on with the Enforcers, who signed him to an extension before the 2007 season ended. Barnes has been a solid player that could start at left tackle for any number of teams, and could get that opportunity with a big year in 2008. Thomas and Paige form perhaps the best left side in the XFL, which makes Chicago's rushing output last year all the more disappointing. There are questions at right guard, with Brown's dedication in question and Duckworth waiting to take over. Kalil strengthens the middle. Strief is looked at as a replacement for Barnes if he leaves as a free agent after the season.
DL: Mark Anderson, Demoine Adams, Justin Tuck, Ian Scott, Rodrique Wright, Sione Pouha, Marquies Gunn
The Enforcers would like to return to the pass rushing production they got from their ends during their 2003-04 championship runs. Tuck has been strong against the run and the team hopes his walk year is his breakout year as a pass rusher. Anderson's sacks dipped to five with Orlando last season. Playing on a less talented defensive line since coming to Chicago 1 1/2 seasons ago, Adams' sack numbers have dipped as well. The Enforcers were a dazzling first-to-worst against the run in '07 despite the additions of Scott and the return of Wright, who missed his rookie season with a shoulder injury.
LB: Thomas Howard, Patrick Willis, Rocky McIntosh, Channing Crowder, Andre Sommersell, Everick Rawls
The Enforcers have two bonafide young stars in Howard and Willis, and the trade of veteran Kiah Johnson will open up a spot on the strong side for McIntosh. Crowder was a disappointment as the starting middle linebacker in '06 and has been on and off the trade block ever since. Sommersell is a good reserve speed rusher. Rawls is an extra run stopper.
CB: Joey Thomas, Corey Webster, Cedric Griffin, Justin Miller, Jarrell Weaver, Jessie Daniels, Justin Miller, Mike Rumph, Sergio Gilliam, David Overstreet, Matt Ware
Thomas was hardly the best cover corner available in free agency, but he was the first one off the board and the Enforcers paid him like he was. Webster hasn't been anything to write home about and almost certainly will be gone one way or another. Griffin has made strides and has locked down a starting job. Daniels had a strong rookie season, leading the team with four interceptions, though questions will still remain about his ability in pass coverage. Weaver will replace Will Allen. Rumph and Gilliam are safe as reserves, meaning that former first-rounder Ware will battle with Overstreet for a roster spot. Miller was already on thin ice before he got into some trouble in preseason, resulting in a mandatory league suspension and an even longer team suspension.
ST: Mike Nugent (K), Brooks Barnard (P), Justin Miller (RET)
Nugent had another strong year, hitting 27 of 30 field goal attempts. Barnard had a strong year as well, averaging 46.2 per punt, but the weakness of the Enforcers' punt coverage units (gave up 15.2 per return) masked it as Barnard's net average was just 33.2. Miller, who was replaced by Antwone Savage at punt returner during his suspension, will claim both punt and kickoff return duties as a way of earning his keep.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. DE/DT-The Enforcers' pass rush is a far cry from when they were dominating the league four and five years ago. On the other hand, the run defense, which was very strong in 2006, regressed badly in 2007. It may be more of a need because on paper, the Enforcers should have a good pass rush with Anderson, Tuck, and Adams although all three could have size issues. For now, this is 1 and 1b.
2. WR-While the Enforcers are very high on Maurice Stovall to make it as a starter that's a bit of a risk as he has just 15 receptions in his career (although he has a very nice 15.1 career average). You can bet the Enforcers are looking for Mario Manningham, Andre Caldwell, or Donnie Avery to fall into their hands, and with three first-round picks, they might just jump on one with their first.
3. TE-Troupe hasn't developed as the Enforcers needed, so they don't have a reliable tight end threat. It would be a dream come true if John Carlson were available, given the fact that the Enforcers' Notre Dame fanbase is very strong. Otherwise, there's a bit of a dropoff so if they draft a tight end, they best get while the gettin's good.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 4, 2008 21:05:28 GMT -5
DALLAS LONESTARS
QB: Seneca Wallace, Jared Zabransky
Wallace is coming off a career year, and led his team to the X-Bowl for the second straight year, but he's also established a disturbing pattern of following up great years with not-so-great ones, which is why the Lonestars are developing Zabransky, and considering Kurt Warner's rather rapid fall from grace, it might not be too long before the former Boise State standout gets the opportunity to make his mark.
RB: Travis Stephens, Selvin Young, Troy Fleming
The Lonestars' running game was so-so during the season but arrived with a bang in the postseason. Stephens and Curtis Alexander combined for 101 yards against the league's best run defense in a playoff stunner in Kansas City that sent the Lonestars to their second X-Bowl. To get Young carries in '08, the Lonestars let Alexander leave in the offseason and now the Lonestars are once again looking for a third back after Ramonce Taylor was sentenced to a five-month prison term in mid-February. Fleming, who was released by Carolina in 2006, found a home as the Lonestar fullback after a midseason arrival.
WR: Rashaun Woods, Santonio Holmes, Jerome Mathis, D'Juan Woods, Brad Smith, Ben Obomanu
This is where the Lonestars start to have some problems, not on the field but off it. Mathis is an amazing talent and in the slot, gives Dallas a terrorizing trio with Woods and Holmes. But off the field, Mathis is lacking. His latest transgression came in February when he was arrested on domestic assault charges. The younger Woods and Obomanu are chomping at the bit to cut into Mathis' playing time, if not replace him altogether. Smith is a fine punt returner, although he's not really considered as a receiver because his route-running still is a work in progress.
TE: Joe Newton, Gabe Hall
Losing Chris Cooley was a major blow, but Newton has the capability to step in and minimize the dropoff. Newton is an improving blocker, perhaps better than Cooley in that department. But the Lonestars will have their main blocking tight end in the 295-lb Hall, who played the position in high school.
OL: Jordan Black, Jonathan Scott, Todd Williams, Will Allen, Kasey Studdard, Travis Leffew, T.J. Downing, Aaron Graham, A.J. Ricker
In the past two offseasons, Dallas has lost former starting tackles Dave Volk and Kareem Marshall, yet in 2007 the team may have received the most production from their tackles, as over the final ten games the unit was stellar, yielding just 11 sacks with Wallace under center. The interior line could use some reconfiguring. Williams is good to go, but Allen's first year as a starter didn't exactly remind anyone of another guard named Allen who used to play in Dallas, and Graham will be 35 when the season starts, if he's still on the team. Leffew and Studdard are interesting prospects.
DL: Darnell Dockett, Cory Redding, Benard Thomas, Marcus Thomas, C.J. Ah You, Lorenzo Alexander, Jay Richardson
The Lonestars have potentially one of the league's best defensive lines, with all-XFL fixtures Dockett and Redding and both Thomases. The Lonestars took a gamble on Marcus Thomas, whose litany of off-field problems ruined his career at Florida. Not only did Thomas stay out of trouble, but he put together a ROY-type season and finished on the all-rookie team. Unfortunately, as an early March arrest proved, he still hasn't completely broken free of his troubles. Thomas will a serve a suspension which will give Alexander, who can play both inside and out, an opening. Richardson has a long wingspan that allows him to obstruct the view of quarterbacks and bat down passes, making him a valuable third defensive end, if he can get on the field, an uncertainty given the talent up front.
LB: Corey Moore, A.J. Nicholson, Lance Mitchell, Jeremiah Trotter, LaMarcus McDonald, John Saldi, Cameron Vaughn
The only certainties are vets Moore and Mitchell, who both continue to play well, especially Moore, who went from a possible preseason cut to replacing Nicholson, who was suspended for the season after a domestic arrest (he was later acquitted). Nicholson moves into the starting lineup as he takes over for Demorrio Williams on the weak side. Mitchell will have help against the run in the form of Trotter, who came down from Kansas City in a trade. McDonald and Saldi give the team quality depth.
DB: Lawrence Richardson, Andre Dyson, Earthwind Moreland, Junior Rosegreen, Darrell Hunter, Tyrone Culver
The Lonestars will give Rosegreen, who played well--including two interceptions--when called upon, a shot to win a starting safety job and will likely go the draft to find a replacement for Erik Coleman, who went to Kansas City. Both corners return, which was vital as Moreland is the only experienced backup.
ST: Josh Brown (K), John Torp (P), Will Pettis (KR), Brad Smith (PR)
Another reason for the Lonestars' run to Jacksonville last season was their special teams play, which was the best in the league. Brown was 27 of 32 on field goals but is still looking for a long-term deal. Torp has become the first punter to lead the league in both average and net in each of his first two seasons. Speaking of league records, Pettis set one with a 42.4 regular season kick return average and then bumped that up to an even more ridiculous 46.6 average in the playoffs. Smith had a touchdown return in the regular season but split punt return duties with Holmes in the postseason.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. S-Simply put, the Lonestars will use their first-round pick on the best safety available, even though this year's safety class isn't very strong. A pair of homestate products jump out: Marcus Griffin (Texas) and Quintin Demps (UTEP), with Griffin being the obvious pick because of the success of his brother Michael, the XFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2007.
2. TE-Although Joe Newton should be more-than-capable filling in for Chris Cooley, the team has no real second receiving tight end as Hall, who started a game at right tackle last year, will be called on to exclusively block and be eased in as a receiver later.
3. DT-As described above, Marcus Thomas continues to have problems. It is possible that if Thomas can't pull it together he might not be long for the team, despite being a first round pick in 2007. To contrast that, the Lonestars would probably not make a big splash and would instead dig for a sleeper in the late rounds.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 7, 2008 0:27:52 GMT -5
DETROIT MUSTANGS
QB: Matt Kegel, Josh Betts, Justin Rascati
Kegel, a first-time starter, started behind the eight-ball because of an injury to his shoulder in the preseason, benching him for the first three games. His first start was a disaster against Washington, and he also also had a bad start against Dallas later in the year but he showed plenty of moxie and will be more confident in year two. Betts looked like a practice squad player leading the team in his three games, yet he actually won a game. Rascati has potential down the road.
RB: Dwayne Wright, Cecil Sapp, Jason Teague, Jesse Allen
Wright would have likely been the best running back of the rookie class if not for Marshawn Lynch. Wright rushed for 929 yards and four touchdowns. Wright's backfield mate, Cedric Houston, retired after the season but the Mustangs rebounded by signing the versatile Sapp, who is both a lead blocker and a running threat. Behind the two though, the Mustangs don't have much as Teague had just three carries in '07 and Allen saw a lot of special teams work.
WR: Justin Gage, Travis Wilson, Jason Avant, Jeremy Bloom
An already-thin unit took a major blow when Darnell McDonald signed with Memphis. Gage has strong ability, but questions abound as to whether he can be a #1 receiver. Wilson and Avant, neither of whom had a touchdown reception last year, will have to step up for larger roles. Bloom's role is strictly as a return man.
TE: Ben Utecht, Kevin Boss
Utecht is a reliable weapon who can line up as both a tight end and an H-back, so the Mustangs wasted little time re-signing him. The future is Boss, who made little impact as a receiver in his rookie year but made huge strides in blocking and blitz pickup skills.
OL: Artis Hicks, Marico Portis, Will Montgomery, Marvin Philip, Akil Smith, John Feugill, Matt Lentz, Adam Stenavich
The Mustangs also took a major blow here with the loss of Travelle Wharton but were able to sign Hicks, who may not be the player he was two years ago but he's still a very good left tackle. However, of concern is that the line could have two newcomers with Montgomery at left guard and possibly Stenavich at right tackle as the Mustangs weren't really enamored with either Smith, who came over from Los Angeles as a free agent, or Feugill. Portis surprisingly returned to the Motor City before having a chance to test the free agent waters and continued his stellar play. Philip is fast becoming one of the best centers in the league.
DL: Jamaal Anderson, Gabe Watson, Matt Roth, Darrion Scott, Derek Landri, Tim Beauchamp
The unit played very well in the first few weeks of the season but the Mustangs' early offensive ineptitude was too much for them and the unit suffered as a result. Anderson, the top pick in the draft last April, was off to a great start with four sacks in the first three games but did not have a sack the rest of the year. Scott was decent against the run but is really overmatched playing inside. Watson had a letdown in '07 after a superb rookie year. Roth is a solid high-motor player but he was also sort of ordinary in '07. Both Roth and Scott will serve suspensions in '08, testing a unit already with little depth. Landri, who didn't see much playing time as a rookie, will certainly get a shot in year two.
LB: Michael Boley, Stephen Tulloch, Shawn Banks, Spencer Havner
Despite the defensive line featuring four first-round picks, this stands out as the strength of an otherwise below average defense. The multi-dimensional Boley is the star of not only the linebacking units, but the entire defense as well, which is why the Mustangs aren't interested in waiting until the end of the season to lock him up with an extension. Boley had four sacks and two interceptions to go along with 49 tackles. Tulloch will move into the starting lineup this season, he can play in the middle but the coaching staff likes him outside because of his speed and athleticism. The reliable Banks will be 36 at midseason and will likely retire after the season.
DB: Bryant McFadden, Jonathan Wade, Ernest Shazor, Greg Brooks, Brandon Everage, Jarvis Herring, Marcus Paschal, Reuben Houston
Losing veterans Davis Sanchez and Pig Prather would seem to hurt on paper, but the Mustang secondary wasn't very good with them so they might as well go with different players. McFadden has played well enough (relatively) the past few seasons and will replace Sanchez as the #1 corner with Wade, who had decent rookie year, moving into the starting lineup. The Mustangs were lucky to re-sign Shazor, but could still use help at safety.
ST: Brent Smith (K), Donnie Jones (P), Travis Wilson (KR), Jeremy Bloom (PR)
Smith had a career year, hitting 25 of 26 field goals while Jones comes to Detroit after a solid year in Birmingham, placing 16 punts inside the 20 and averaging 43.6 yards per punt. He will be an upgrade on Noel Prefontaine. The return game will be shaken up a bit after Iheanyi Uwaezuoke retired. Wilson had a strong 27.6 kick return average and will be the top kick return man, while Bloom's punt return average fell to 9.6 in his second year.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. WR-After the loss of McDonald, the position returns 89 catches and just three touchdowns (all by Gage). So the Mustangs are out for a playmaker here, and would obviously love for one of two homestate products to be available: Mario Manningham (Michigan) or Devin Thomas (Michigan State).
2. S-Shazor, who made the team as an undrafted free agent in 2005, has played very well, but the Mustangs don't have a lot of options at the other safety spot. Everage and Paschal are both possibilities, but the Mustangs could strike gold with Jamar Adams, Wesley Woodyard, or Tom Zbikowski, while Herring should be limited to special teams.
3. RB-The addition of Sapp means that the Mustangs will have a backfield duo similar to what Memphis had with Sapp and Eric Shelton. But behind that they have nothing (yes once upon a time they did have Ryan Grant, don't remind them).
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 7, 2008 0:39:50 GMT -5
JACKSONVILLE BULLS
QB: Tyler Palko, Chris Leak, Craig Krenzel
Palko took over at midseason and looked pretty good, going 4-2 as a starter. But the Bulls will probably re-evaluate the position anyway during training camp, as Leak will battle him for the starting job. Krenzel, signed in week three, is the emergency third stringer who does have starting experience with Washington in 2006.
RB: Joseph Addai, Courtney Lewis, Kevan Barlow, Thomas Tapeh
Addai's second season was plagued by injuries as he only rushed for 343 yards. Seventh-round pick Lewis stepped in and did a fine job, with 791 yards and a solid 5.1 average although Addai will be the starter once again heading into camp. Barlow was signed just before the season mainly to add depth but, because of Lewis' success, hardly saw the field. Tapeh replaces Michael Blair, who retired at the end of the season.
WR: Chad Jackson, Eric Moulds, Corey Bradford, Troy Edwards, Chris Hannon
Jackson is slowly developing the #1 receiver the Bulls were looking for when they drafted him two years ago, but the Bulls need more here. Moulds, signed in week four, was productive with 34 grabs but gets minimal separation. The same goes for Edwards. Bradford saw most of his time returning punts.
TE: Greg Olsen, T.J. Williams
Olsen is an emerging star with his athleticism and ability to stretch the field. His 37 catches and 556 yards were both second on the team. Williams is decent as the second tight end, but needs to work on his blocking skills.
OL: Michael Roos, Michael Keathley, Max Jean-Gilles, Ray Willis, Carlos Joseph, Chris Myers, Dan Mozes, Dan Stevenson
Roos continues to get better, and it's a matter of time before he's mentioned with Tarlos Thomas, Damion Cook, Vernon Carey, and Travelle Wharton as one of the best left tackles in the league. The interior is sound as well with Willis, Keathley, and Jean-Gilles. Joseph is most likely heading into his last year with club so the Bulls could draft a successor. The team is high on both Myers, who can also play center, and Mozes as backups.
DL: Jamaal Green, Chauncey Davis, Stanley McClover, Robaire Smith, Tank Tyler
Davis and McClover both burst on the scene as rookies, yet neither has had the same impact as a pass rusher since, thus the reason the Bulls have kept veterans Green and Smith around. Smith will slide over to end full-time this season to accommodate Tyler, who showed enough over the second half of the year that coaches believe he can be an effective 3-4 nose.
LB: Travis Carroll, Mike Nattiel, Gerris Wikinson, H.B. Blades, Brian Iwuh, Anthony Cannon
With veterans Carroll and Nattiel anchoring the unit both inside and outside the Bulls took a chance and let Courtney Watson walk, opening up a spot inside for Blades, who played well and was pushing Watson for a starting job anyway. Wilkinson showed great speed and strength and played well in his first year as starter, notching five sacks. The depth will need to be addressed.
DB: Joseph Jefferson, Tony Okanlawon, Adrian Singleton, Kenny Scott, Vincent Fuller, DeMario Minter, Chris Harrell
Jefferson and Okanlawon have been the team's starting cornerbacks almost exclusively since they came into the league in 2002, also the team's expansion year. It might be time to go in a new direction as this unit is nothing more than average. But the Bulls have a lot of money tied up in both Singleton and Jefferson so it could be hard to make moves from that standpoint, especially Singleton, who had a career year in 2005 with five interceptions but hasn't been great since--he also missed five games in 2007 with a hamstring injury. Fuller is a versatile player who can also paly nickel corner, although the Bulls are deep there with Scott and Minter. Harrell is a good in run support and could be ready for increased playing time.
ST: Mason Crosby (K), Tyler Fredrickson (P), Willie Ford (KR), Corey Bradford (PR), Dan Mozes (LS)
Crosby had a decent year, but the Bulls were expecting more from him in long range, where he was just 9 of 14 beyond 40 yards. Nonetheless he has a strong leg, which will help. Fredrickson isn't spectacular and the Bulls probably could improve there, but did a good job at placing punts inside the 20 with 13 last season. The return units could also use an upgrade, as Ford, who was once upon a time mentioned with Will Pettis among the best return men in the league, has dropped off substantially, averaging just 19.2 yards per kick return. Midseason acquisition Bradford was an upgrade on Troy Bergeron, but still wasn't much better than average.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. WR-The Bulls should join in the crowd to take advantage of this year's wide receiver class with not much behind Jackson. A receiver like Andre Caldwell or Earl Bennett would be perfect.
2. OL-With Joseph probably gone after the season, the Bulls will probably go here. Previous mocks had them taking an offensive tackle in the first round, it may not be that urgent this time around although the Bulls really ony have their two starting tackles and a bunch of guards they would have to convert.
3. DB-The secondary will need to be shaken up eventually as Jefferson and Singleton are showing signs of wearing down, Okanlawon is replaceable, and Fuller coulod bolt as free agent after the 2008 season. The Bulls have a pair of good young corners in Scott and Minter so saftey would be their target.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 7, 2008 0:45:17 GMT -5
KANSAS CITY MONARCHS
QB: Anthony Calvillo, Matt Nagy
Calvillo had another strong year but entering his 15th season of pro ball and the situation with his wife, who was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma, could mean that 2008 will be his last season. Nagy saw more action last year than at any point in his two-year Monarchs' career and is looked at as the starter-in-waiting.
RB: LenDale White, Chris Brown, Darren Sproles, Garrett Mills
White, fully healed from a nagging hamstring injury that subjected him to much criticism as a rookie, blew down the doors completely by rushing for a team all-time high 1275 yards and scoring a combined nine touchdowns, six rushing and three receiving. His 1574 total yards was second to Jason Brookins. Brown showed up just before the season and and added 394 yards and a fabulous 6.1 average,
Sproles is seen as more of a third down specialist, but showed he could answer the call with a 134-yard game against New York at midseason. Mills could have more of an H-back role on deck this year.
WR: Devard Darling, Mike Williams, Devin Hester, Ryan Moore, Bobby Sippio
Darling comes over to Kansas City after setting career-highs in both receptions (76) and receiving yards (1068) in Seattle last year, making his first all-XFL squad. Williams has slipped since his 68-catch rookie season of 2004, but is still a very productive #2 receiver, and has averaged over 18 yards per catch from 2005-2007. Hester will need to become a quick study if he is to become the slot receiver. Neither Moore nor Sippio, who was their starting cornerback just two years ago after coming over from Las Vegas, are much to write about at this point. The Monarchs will be looking for receivers on the second day of the draft.
TE: Teyo Johnson
Johnson has greatly aided alvillo the last couple years by being a top red-zone target. The converted wideout almost acts as a tall possession receiver and is a great asset for the team to have on the offensive side of the ball. Currently Johnson is the only tight end on the roster after Kevin Everett suffered a spinal cord injury that will end his career (and nearly prevented him from walking). But that will change.
OL: Damion Cook, Max Starks, Evan Mathis, Alex Stepanovich, Dave Volk, Pita Elisara, Jason Brown, Mark Setterstrom, Doug Datish
Always looking to increase the manpower on the offensive line, the Monarchs went out and signed a pair of big prizes on the market: Starks and Stepanovich. The upheaval might not be done, as Volk might be next even though he was their big signing just a year ago. Brown is too good to be a backup and would be Volk's replacement at left guard. The same could be said for Setterstrom, meaning one of them could be used as trade bait.
DL: Adalius Thomas, Atiyyah Ellison, Reggie Hayward, Aubrayo Franklin, Jarvis Moss, Baraka Atkins, Jason Hall, Tank Reese, Walter Thomas
Thomas is a solid playmaking defensive end who can play anywhere on defense, even most famously lining up against Darnell McDonald one time and nearly knocking him back into the press box. Hayward is a different story, he fought through a torn achilles tendon that cost him half the season and his effectiveness for 2008 will be in question. Atkins and Moss both filled in admirably for Hayward. Hall arrived in Kansas City at midseason fresh off a sack title in NFL Europe but didn't really see much playing time. The acquistion of Franklin played a huge role in the Monarchs vaulting to the top against the run last season. Reese, who went from being a prize free agent signing to little used because of Franklin, probably won't be back and may be traded.
LB: Kevin Burnett, Antwan Barnes, Buster Davis, Alfred Fincher
This unit came under heavy fire from the coaching staff and the front office after the disappointing playoff loss to Dallas that ruined the season. Jeremiah Trotter was quickly traded (to Dallas, no less), and Rawls was dealt to Chicago. Burnett had another strong year, so he was spared. Davis, who was a third round pick in the NFL last year only to end up on the list of preseason cuts, was quickly snapped up by the Monarchs to replace Trotter. Barnes is a pass rusher with huge upside.
DB: Nathan Vasher, Richard Marshall, Erik Coleman, Reggie Durden, Daniel Bullocks, Darnell Bing, Tony Parrish, Marvin White, Travarous Bain
The Monarchs went out and got Durden in the offseason and that will give them tremendous depth at corner, with potentially a third starter playing the nickel. Safety needed to be addressed, especially after Bullocks went down with an ACL tear against in the playoffs, so the Monarchs took from their rival and signed Coleman, while Bing, who in an ironic twist lost the job to Bullocks in the first place after suffering a neck injury, will take over at strong safety.
ST: John Carney (K), Brian Morton (P), Devin Hester (RET), Doug Datish (LS)
Carney, who will be 44 by the time the Monarchs start up the 2008 season, was a very strong 23-of-27 so there's no need for the Monarchs to look for a replacement despite his age. On the other side, Todd Sauerbrun was a question mark even before the Monarchs released him because he was too volatile off the field and signed Morton to replace him. Hester, despite his foray into the receiver units, isn't going anywhere anytime soon after more return highlights in '07--including two punt returns for touchdowns.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. TE-The Everett situation pretty much sealed it, the Monarchs are almost a dead-set guarantee to go tight end with the 14th pick, with the talk being of the Fred Davis-Martellus Bennett-John Carlson trinity.
2. LB-With Rawls on the way out the Monarchs are thin depth-wise. They also may sign or trade for depth in which case this becomes less of a need pick
3. WR-Only because the rest of the unit beyond the starters aren't proven, though Hester did have a touchdown reception as a rookie in '06. This won't be a first-day pick though unless the Monarchs see a can't miss prospect.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:12:42 GMT -5
LAS VEGAS OUTLAWS
QB: Jason Gesser, Derek Anderson, Matt Moore
After a career 2006, where he threw just two interceptions in 382 pass attempts, Gesser was once again up and down, completing just 50.4% of his passes although he ended up throwing just ten interceptions after starting with five in the first two games. Anderson has potential, and other teams have shown interest in the tall passer, but Anderson threw three touchdowns and seven interceptions in roughly a third as many attempts as Gesser. The Outlaws could move Anderson--their second backup in as many years--and create a spot for Moore, who has great intangibles.
RB: Tony Hollings, Jerome Harrison, Manuel White
The Outlaws changed offensive coordinators in the offseason with the intent of making better use of their running game. Hollings and Harrison combined to carry the ball just 164 times in 2007. White, who also returned punts, will replace longtime Outlaw standout Chrys Chukwuma as the fullback thoguh there is a chance Chukwuma could return.
WR: Nate Burleson, Jason Hill, Jeff Webb, Charles Frederick, Todd Watkins
Burleson's 60 catches and five touchdowns led the team, though Hill made a big splash after debuting in week four, averaging 17.2 yards per catch and scoring a pair of touchdowns. Hill's role will increase in his second year after the Outlaws let Samie Parker go. Webb and Frederick will also play bigger roles now that the receiver corps has been thinned out. Watkins spent 2007 on the practice squad.
TE: Matt Murphy, Tim Day, Cody Boyd
Murphy's numbers went down from 72 catches to 48 as the Outlaws got Day involved in the offense more. Murphy remains a downfield threat and a popular target for Gesser, while Day is a safety valve. Boyd has good size and was the blocking tight end as a rookie.
OL: Jermese Jones, Eric Winston, Kevin Barry, Ben Nowland, Chris Denman, Stephen Berg, Nick Mihlhauser, Cory Niblock
Winston is seen as a future cornerstone of the line as the Outlaws' sack totals (allowed) have decreased in each of the last two seasons since he was drafted. Denman, who spent the '07 season as a backup, is seen in the same mold as he takes over at right tackle. The interior of the line (Barry, Nowland, Jones) ranks among the best in the league. Mihlhauser is a valuable backup who can play both center and guard, but the Outlaws could use more depth here.
DL: Rien Long, Devan Long, Tommy Kelly, Kareem Brown, Michael Josiah, Dave Ball, Angel Rubio
The Outlaws' defensive line prospects took a turn for the worse in January when Rien Long was involved in a near-fatal auto accident. Full recovery is expected but Long is expected to be at the very least on the PUP list if not placed on IR. Rien's younger brother is establishing himself as a pass rushing force after a team-leading ten sacks. Kelly can play both inside and outside and may be needed back inside depending on what happens with Rien Long. Brown had a decent rookie year. Former first-rounder Ball has been a disappointment.
LB: Trev Faulk, Ryan Claridge, Adam Seward, Mario Haggan, David Holloway, Matt Rice
The Outlaws had to realign the unit quickly after former Defensive Rookie of the Year Richard Seigler's legal woes got him suspended for the year. There was thought of moving Faulk back to the middle but Faulk had a tremendous season playing the run. The loss of John Norman will test the unit but Claridge has been a productive backup over his career at will take over on the strong side. Seward showed he was ready to replace Seigler with four sacks and three interceptions. The Outlaws have a solid reserve unit after adding Haggan in the offseason.
DB: Sam Brandon, Jason David, Brandon Browner, Jamaal Brimmer, Antwoine Sanders, Harrison Smith, Hurley Tarver, John Bowie, Will Gulley
Brandon continues to be the patroller of the secondary, and could be heading into his last season with the Outlaws. David will replace Joey Thomas, he looked out of place in man-coverage against Memphis' receivers in the playoffs last year but will benefit by moving to the right side and the Outlaws' pass coverage scheme, which is part-zone, part-man, part-cover 2. Browner and Brimmer each had three interceptions, with Brimmer taking all three of his back for touchdowns. Former starters Sanders and Tarver have them in good shape backup-wise.
ST: Kris Stockton (K), Mat McBriar (P), Jeff Webb (KR), Manuel White (PR)
Stockton has been the Outlaws' leg since day one, Last year ended his reign as the league's three-time consecutive leading scorer. McBriar had a terrible year after signing a deal that made him the highest-paid punter in the league, including four blocked punts. The return units were pedestrian, as Webb had some problems with fumbles and the Outlaws might bring Troy Mason back.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. DT-With Rien Long now an uncertainty for the 2008 season, the Outlaws need to reassess their situation. They can plug Kelly in at DT but would really like him outside. Brown showed flashes, but isn't ready to start yet. Veteran Rubio can be used as a stopgap, but the Outlaws could use a fresh set of legs here.
2. OL-The Outlaws have little depth, and none behind their starting tackles, although this may also grow to include guard as Berg, a third-round pick last year, spent the season on IR and Niblock saw little action as an undrafted free agent, leaving Mihlhauser, currently the backup center, as the only other guard.
3. WR-The Outlaws have drafted at least one wide receiver every year of their existence so this will be a given. They may mostly look for one to use on the return teams.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:13:06 GMT -5
LOS ANGELES XTREME
QB: Tim Rattay, Jamie Martin, Kliff Kingsbury, Gino Guidugli
The Xtreme decided that the Woodrow Dantzler era had lived out its usefulness so they turn to Rattay, an eight-year NFL veteran who never lived up to his billing. Nonetheless he's the pivot for good or bad. Martin, who started three games in Chicago in 2006, is a decent backup option. Kingsbury and Guidugli will battle it out for the third spot, as the Xtreme will likely not carry four quarterbacks again as they did last year.
RB: Maurice Jones-Drew, Joe Smith, Mark Pierce, David Kirtman
Jones-Drew came back with a strong year in '07, taking over the starting job in week three and ended up with 626 yards on a strong 5.6 average. Smith had only three carries--one of which was a 42-yard burst--and isn't expected to have any larger of a role in '08 despite the opening. Pierce is a solid tweener who was very productive on 41 touches. Kirtman had one reception, it was his first career touchdown.
WR: Kelly Campbell, Kareem Kelly, Demetrius Williams, Jarrett Hicks, Tab Perry
The Xtreme have had a pretty potent receiving corps over the years and will have as such again in '08. The Xtreme lost Darnay Scott to retirement but signed Campbell, who led the league in receiving last year for the Ironmen. Kelly only had 49 catches, but his nine touchdowns led the league and he also had 19.3 yards per catch. Williams, who had problems with drops and brutal fumbles in 2006, had 42 catches and greaty improved his concentration. Hicks is looked a as a deep threat, he had six catches for 115 yards, two for touchdowns.
TE: Anthony Fasano, Antoine Harris, Cooper Wallace
The Xtreme will need improved production from their tight ends in '08 if Rattay is to pan out, especially from Fasano, who hasn't lived up to his billing yet. Harris may retire due to nagging injuries, leaving Wallace as the only other option at the position.
OL: Steve Edwards, Antwan Kirk-Hughes, Tyson Clabo, Adam Terry, Doug Free, Chris Brymer, Cory Raymer, Kurt Quarterman
Although others could take the blame (mostly Dantzler and his reckless scrambling), the line came under fire for allowing a league-high 48 sacks. Many believe the problem starts in the middle, Himebauch was no longer effective enough to handle center and it had a ripple effect on the rest of the line. Himebauch retired to go into coaching so Raymer will become the starter although at 35 he's certainly no spring chicken himself. There has been talk of possibly moving Terry back to left tackle, although he had mixed results there and that led the Xtreme to sign Edwards in the first place. Clabo came over the X-Bowl champion Hitmen in the offseason, but missed the postseason with a bicep injury and questions will remain as to his effectiveness. Kirk-Hughes was the team's best and most consistent lineman.
DL: Lonnie Ford, Ennis Davis, Igor Olshansky, Tim Cheatwood, Ryan Boschetti, Josh Shaw, Eric Moore, Tim Crowder
The Xtreme's strength on the defensive line the last few years has been against the run, so don't expect much in the way of change even though the lack of pass rush (24 sacks) affected the pass defense more negatively than readily apparent. Olshansky, a solid run stuffer who will move inside as the run-stuffing tackle, should fit right in for the Xtreme defensively and allow Davis, who had just one sack last year, to return to form as a pass rusher. Ford and Cheatwood had 15 of the team's 24 sacks. Boschetti has starting ability, which makes his return surprising. Crowder has potential to get on the field in a three-end rotation.
LB: Larry Foote, Demorrio Williams, Lawrence Flugence, Derek Curry, Rufus Alexander, Zach Latimer
The linebackers are another reason for the Xtreme's success against the run over the years, with Foote leading the way. Now the Xtreme add another force against the run in Williams, who can play (and has played) both outside linebacker spots. The star power on the wings might force teams to overlook the speedy Flugence. Curry has been strong in reserve duty the last few years, while the Oklahoma pair--Alexander and Latimer--will see more action in '08.
DB: Anwar Phillips, Will Poole, Michael Griffin, Rashad Baker, Bobby Jackson, Omarr Morgan, Devin Bush, Darius Clark
Recognizing, despite Griffin's status as XFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, their pass deficiencies, the Xtreme went out and made another addition in Baker, who returns to the Xtreme after two years as a backup in Washington. Griffin led the team with 130 tackles and had two interceptions, making great strides in pass coverage. Phillips continues to improve his coverage skills, where on the other side time is just about running out for former first-rounder Poole, who because of injuries and inconsistency has not been the player the Xtreme thought he'd be, although the Xtreme currently don't have a replacement and would look for one in the draft.
ST: Billy Bennett (K), Nate Fikse (P), Maurice Jones-Drew (KR), Tab Perry (PR), Cory Raymer (LS)
Bennett returns after another stellar year, hitting 22 of 27 field goal attempts. Fikse did a tremendous job placing punts inside the 20, finishing second in the league with 16. Jones-Drew averaged 32.9 per kick return and returned one 92 yards for a touchdown. Perry did a good job of both, averaging 24.5 per kick return, and 11.3 on punts.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. TE-A sure need with Harris expected to retire, and Wallace not much of an option, having appeared in just two games last year. The priority this takes will be determined by how well they think Fasano will adjust for them in '08.
2. CB-The Xtreme passed on bringing Reggie Durden back and that might prove to be a mistake unless they can land Terrell Thomas or Chevis Jackson in the draft since they've all but soured on Poole.
3. OL-They could go any position along the line here because of all the problems, although at tackle they could be covered moreso than at guard or center, the latter would be more prominent with only an aging Raymer at the position.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:13:31 GMT -5
MEMPHIS MANIAX
QB: Bart Hendricks, Dave Dickenson, Erik Meyer
Hendricks took a step backwards in 2007 coming off back-to-back career years, but he is firmly entrenched as the man at the pivot where in years past the Maniax would look at their options. Dickenson is a candidate to be traded to a team looking for a veteran starter to fill the gap (i.e. Birmingham), but doing so would leave the Maniax without an experienced backup as Meyer is still in the developmental phase.
RB: Eric Shelton, Gerald Riggs, Charles Roberts
Shelton found out at midseason what losing his main blocker Cecil Sapp was like. Now he'll get to experience it on a more regular basis after the Maniax lost Sapp to Detroit. Shelton is coming off a career-worst 3.4 yards per carry, although he found the end zone 13 times, second in the league. Riggs is looking for a second chance after flopping as a first-round pick in San Francisco, although he is coming off a much better season in his second year. Roberts seems relegated to the role of third-down back.
WR: Latef Grim, Darnell McDonald, Steve Breaston, Jason Armstead, Drouzon Quillen
The Maniax' struggling passing game got a boost when Breaston was inserted into the starting lineup, but the Maniax would definitely like to keep him in the slot this year and imported McDonald from Detroit, where he led the Mustangs with 65 receptions and five touchdowns but also dropped nine passes, which is why he joins the Maniax as a #2 receiver. The Maniax would also like to open up more opportunities for Armstead and Quillen.
TE: Bobby Blizzard, Tim Euhus, Jason Rader
Blizzard's return was in question all offseason after he suffered a back injury against the Hitmen in the playoffs, but he will return in '08. Euhus had the lone touchdown catch among the group. Rader is used mainly in pass blocking, where he still needs to improve.
OL: Andrew Whitworth, Ryan O'Callaghan, Jason Ball, Mike Jones, Stephon Heyer, Daniel Inman, Wesley Britt, Vince Carter
No other team may have a dropoff, at least in terms of veterans to young talent, as the Maniax have had in the offseason, as former all-XFL left tackle Artis Hicks left for Detroit and right guard Derrick Chambers was not re-signed. Their replacements are Whitworth, a former first-round pick who has tremendous versatility and will move to the left side after a successful two-year run at right tackle, and Jones, although he might have a fight on his hands from Britt. Heyer gained valuable experience playing behind Whitworth and the Maniax wouldn't have made many of their offseason moves if they didn't think they were covered at right tackle. Ball might not last another season because of gimpy knees, leaving a possible need to be addressed in the draft.
DL: T.J. Frier, Bernard Jackson, Anthony Spencer, Colin Cole, Keith Jackson, Aaron Humphrey
Frier led the team with seven sacks but no defensive lineman had more than Bernard Jackson's four. so improving the pass rush has been on the offseason to-do list. They could have a potential star in Spencer, their first-round pick in 2007, who had two sacks in the regular season and then two more in the playoffs, though Spencer needs to bulk up to become an every-down rusher. Cole has become one of the team's best run defenders. Keith Jackson, a third-round pick out of Arkansas (and son of former NFL tight end Keith), will definitely get a chance to have more of an impact in 2008.
LB: Cols Colas, Patrick Sapp, Omar Gaither, Desmond Bishop, Caspor Stiles
Colas has been the Maniax' top playmaker on defense since day one, and the Maniax would really like to sign him to extension as he figures to be highly coveted in the open market this fall. Gaither will replace D.D. Acholonu, who was never really a good fit as a 4-3 weak side linebacker. Bishop was a hard hitter on special teams and could push the reliable but aging Sapp in the middle, while Stiles, who played in Memphis from 2001-03, was brought back as a reserve.
DB: David Pittman, Joey Eloms, Ko Simpson, Charles Gordon, Jack Brewer, Brandon Sharp
The Maniax lost both their starting corners in free agency so this could be the first target in the draft. Pittman and Gordon both are athletic, but neither are starting material and Eloms is probably done as a starter at this point in his career. Simpson was supposed to be the breakout star in '07 but injuries slowed him down, he still had a pair of interceptions though and will return for '08. Brewer, the veteran of the group, remains solid at strong safety.
ST: Gordon Ely-Kelso (P), Steve Breaston (RET)
Ely-Kelso was the league's best at pinning opponents inside the 20. Dan Nystrom was released after finishing tied for 15th in the league in field goal accuracy. Breaston, not to be outdone in a division of great return men, had two punt returns for touchdowns and also averaged 28.1 yards per kick return
DRAFT NEEDS 1. CB-It's more take your pick, since the Maniax need depth just about everywhere, but this was the one position the Maniax were hit hard in in free agency and they don't seem to have at least an adequate replacement. Home-state product Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie would be the ideal, but he's expected to be out of reach by that point.
2. RB-The need here is mostly for a blocking back as Shelton was ineffective in games Cecil Sapp didn't play in. The Maniax seem committed to giving Riggs a fresh start as the #2 back so drafting a tweener type (such as LSU's Jacob Hester) is probably out
3. DE/DT-The Maniax would definitely like to add another pass rusher, though it will probably come in the middle rounds as they already have Frier and Spencer as their 1-2 rushers.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:15:11 GMT -5
NEW YORK HITMEN
QB: Joe Hamilton, Jordan Palmer
Hamilton was viewed somewhat of a desperation signing when the Hitmen signed him. But he was amazing in 2007, and this time had a career year as a passer, throwing for 2499 yards and 25 touchdown passes. He also had over 3000 yards of total offense and a combined 32 touchdowns (25 passing, seven rushing). Palmer, younger borther of NFL quarterback Carson, won a game in place of an injured Hamilton at midseason despite having a so-so overall performance.
RB: Bobby Purify, Michael Bush, Dwone Hicks, Will Matthews
Hamilton accounted for nearly 40% of the Hitmen's rushing yards and had all but one of their eight rushing touchdowns. But Bush, who was brought along slowly after a broken ankle in college prevented him from being a first round pick, had a nice half-season and then turned it on in the postseason, as he was the top rusher with 184 yards and two touchdowns. Purify was second on the team in rushing and is a tough inside runner. Hicks was more productive as a kick returner than as the thrid running back, but he had the only rushing touchdown outside of Hamilton. Matthews is a decent blocking back who occasionally gets carries but not much else out of the backfield.
WR: Emmett Johnson, Terrance Copper, Rhema McKnight, Taylor Stubblefield, Greg Lee
Johnson and Copper were Hamilton's top two receivers as both had over 60 catches but McKnight was a pleasant surprise as a rookie, with 33 catches for 460 yards and six touchdowns. Stubblefield struggled all year with a knee injury and went without a catch.
TE: Patrick Hughes, Eric Edwards, Joseph Kowalewski
The Hitmen also got strong production out of their top two tight ends, Hughes and Edwards, who had a career-high three touchdown receptions. Kowalewski fits in as a blocking back/H-back.
OL: Jamaal Jackson, Nick Mangold, Kareem Marshall, Josh Beekman, Lewis Kelly, Robert Turner
Jackson and Mangold are the stars on the line, but it will be interesting to see what kind of year Hamilton will be able to have in '08 with Brett Williams, who signed with Orlando. Marshall will switch from the right side to left tackle, although Marshall isn't as good in pass blocking and some feel the Hitmen would either be best with Kelly or perhaps use a high draft pick on a left tackle instead. Beekman got a chance in the postseason with Tyson Clabo injured and played well, allowing the Hitmen to make the switch at right guard. Turner played on special teams after making the team as an undrafted free agent but could be a darkhorse candidate to see some meaningful action at either tackle spot this year.
DL: Adam Carriker, Trent Cole, Kwakou Robinson, Quintin Echols
Cole has developed into one of the league's top pass rushers and the Hitmen locked him up long-term. Carriker made his debut in week four and showed tremendous pass rushing ability with nine sacks. Robinson's ten led the team, but his lone drawback is that he plays more like an end despite his 328-pound frame and therfore isn't much of a run stuffer, meaning the Hitmen essentially have three ends and would be in the market for a run stuffer.
LB: Matt McCoy, Shantee Orr, Ron Merkerson, Clifton Smith, Donte Curry, Pierre Woods
McCoy came over in a preseason trade with San Francisco and was one of the keys on defense, even though he only finished sixth on the team in tackles. Longtime stalwart Merkerson is now the only original left but is such a team leader and brings it on the field too. Orr is the best pass rusher of the four linebackers, finishing with eight sacks. Smith has tailed off since his amazing rookie year of 2003 but still played well overall.
DB: Lamont Reid, Ashante Woodyard, Josh Lay, Deshaun Hill, Jahmile Addae, Diamond Ferri, Terrance Leftwich, Willaim Gay
The Hitmen will try to do things in the secondary: One, get Lay on the field more. Lay had an almost-unheard of 284 interception yards on four picks, three of which were run back for touchdowns, although the Hitmen aren't sure he's ready to start yet, that and Woodyard still plays at a very high level. Reid led the league with eight interceptions. Addae, who had a pick-six in the X-Bowl, will get the nod as the strong safety after Ferri spent the offseason recovering from acute pancreatitis. Hill has a rep as a lights-out hitter and is actually a very good cover safety in which the move to free safety will help even more.
ST: Tyler Jones (K), Kyle Larson (P), Dwone Hicks (KR), Greg Lee (PR)
Jones got plenty of practice kicking extra points, as his 44 attempts led the league (he did miss two) and, consequently, had a league-low 14 field goal attempts, missing three. Larson is a steady leg and is Jones' holder. Hicks was a decent enoguh kick returner but upgrade is probably desired, but none is need at punt returner as Lee averaged 18.0 yards per return and had one touchdown.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. DT-If the Hitmen had a lone weakness, it was run defense, in which the Hitmen yielded 120.2 yards per game. The effectiveness of the pass rush and the secondary both neutralized it (and then some), but a 3-4 team's bread-and-butter is effectiveness against the run. Robinson is more an inside-rushing end than tackle. A Pat Sims or Red Bryant would be perfect, since because the pass rush is so good, they wouldn't be needed on every down.
2. OT-Questions remain as to whether Marshall will be an effective replacement for Brett Williams considering that Marshall's strength has always been in run blocking. The Hitmen wait until possibly the third round to use a draft pick on decent middle group of prospects. The Hitmen are also woefully thin at guard going into the draft too, but they'll probably make that a second-day priority.
3. QB: The Hitmen haven't had the best of luck finding a backup, especially after 2005, when Tim Couch came back and played very well, but his shoulder kept him from doing much else. Palmer has a ways to go, as despite throwing five touchdown passes and getting the win he also threw four interceptions against a Pittsburgh team that was one of the worst pass defenses in the league.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:15:41 GMT -5
ORLANDO RAGE
QB: Drew Stanton, Michael Bishop, Brett Basanez
Stanton got called into action early when Bishop had another slow start. He performed well until a knee injury in week 11 ended his season. He is fine and ready to go for 2008. The Rage have fielded inquiries for Bishop, who did win a game as a starter in week 12 but struggled to move the offense in the playoff loss to Dallas. If Bishop is dealt, Basanez would move up to no. 2.
RB: Marshawn Lynch, Najeh Davenport, Marcus Mason, Ken Oxendine
Lynch ran hard and smart on his way to 1136 yards and a league-leading 14 touchdowns. He was also a factor in the passing game, catching 35 passes. Lynch is a franhcise back the age can build around. Davenport did well as a power back in short yardge situations, rushing for 4.1 yards per carry and four touchdowns. Oxendine was signed to be the fullback.
WR: Jeremaine Copeland, Vincent Jackson, Brandon Marshall, Aundrae Allison, David Clowney
Copeland hasn't been the receiver he was since he left Jacksonville, as he had another down season (40 catches) but was still good for six touchdowns. Jackson seems to have turned the corner and is living up to his draft billing by running more precise routes and showing more consistency. Allison was a nice surprise, catching three touchdown passes, and should have the slot locked up heading into camp. Marshall is headed elsewhere after his behavior during the 2007 season, when he fumed after the Rage replaced him with Mason on punt returns.
TE: Tracey Wistrom
Wistrom had another strong season and continues to establish himself as the top playmaking tight end in the league, although with just one touchdown reception he wasn't as much of a red-zone target as he usually is. The Rage will be looking for a second tight end in the draft.
OL: Brett Williams, Brian Rimpf, Shannon Snell. Mike Gandy, Kenny Sandlin, Dustin Fry, Rashad Butler, Mansfield Wrotto, Julius Wilson, Jonathan Clinkscale
One of the reasons the Rage signed Williams, although it obviously wasn't the reason, is that if they need Bishop (provided they don't trade him) sometime during the year, they have his main pass protector from his New York days. Williams' presence should make a line that paved the way for 5.0 yards a carry and allowed just eight sacks with Stanton behind center. Gandy has played great, but many expect that Snell will take over at left guard, he has the pulling ability for it. Many think Rimpf can move to right guard and the Rage could afford to weigh their options at right tackle among a bevy of youngsters. Fry could be the center of the future.
DL: Jovon Bush, Kevin DeRonde, Nate Dwyer, Mike Collins, Santonio Thomas, Javon Nanton, David Patterson
The Rage have been long known for a fierce pass rush, but last year it was barely visible. Last year's top sacker, Mark Anderson, was traded for Bush and linebacker Kiah Johnson. The likelihood is that Bush, who had five sacks as a defensive tackle, will move outside as the Rage have the run defense covered. The addition of Dwyer was huge for the run defense in 2007, they went from 12th vs. the run in '06 to 2nd last year. Dwyer and Collins played very well together, and Thomas is finding his niche as third run stopper. DeRonde's sack numbers should be back up with Bush on the other side.
LB: John Norman, Kiah Johnson, David Harris, Rahim Abdullah, Rick Crowell, Jamie Baisley, Ronnie Riley, Abe Brown
The additions of Norman and Johnson could make the Rage even more fearsome against the run. Both led their teams in tackles last year, and Norman's 24 tackles for loss led the league. Harris, who is also a strong run defender, saw some action while spending most of the year making the conversion from the 3-4 to a 4-3. It is likely that any one of the team's starters from last season could be traded or released although the Rage would like keep Abdullah, who is their best coverage linebacker.
DB: Clevan Thomas, Domonique Foxworth, Muhammad Abdullah, Terrence Holt, Marcus McCauley, Reynaldo Hill, Bhawoh Jue, Greg Threat
There was some concern that the Rage would part with Thomas, their longtime fixture at left cornerback. But he returns to the team and now the focus is at the other side, where Foxworth, who played well but has some size issues, may cede to McCauley, who has more of a physical edge. Abdullah had another big year, with a team-leading 82 tackles and a pair of interceptions. Holt had a bit of a disappointing year in his first season in Orlando mainly because of injuries, which ended his season in week nine against Carolina. A return to health is expected and if the team can get a decent pass rush the secondary results should be much more representative of its personnel.
ST: Josh Huston (K), Dan Hadenfeldt (P), Najeh Davenport (KR), Marcus Mason (PR)
Huston had a career year, hitting 23 of 25 field goals, and hit all field goal attempts over 40 yards. Hadenfeldt continues to hit boomers, finishing second in the league with a 48.4 punting average. The return game yielded split results, as Davenport was the top kick returner, albeit with a median 22.4 average. On the other hand, Mason was a star on punt returns, taking two back for touchdowns.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. WR-The Rage will be thinner at wideout after they dump Marshall. An impact wideout isn't needed unless the Rage see a can't-miss-pick on the first day.
2. TE-There are a few good prospects in the middle of the tight end crop that fit the profile of what the Rage will be out for: a blocking tight end who is an occasional receiver.
3. QB-Though erratic, if the Rage move Bishop they lose an effective backup behind Stanton and Basanez has never thrown a regular-season pass, although he does have potential.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:17:13 GMT -5
PITTSBURGH IRONMEN
QB: Quincy Carter, Drew Olson, Luke Getsy
Carter wasn't nearly as spectacular as he was in the second half of 2006 after the Ironmen signed him off the scrap heap. He threw just nine touchdowns to nine interceptions and probably isn't in the team's plans for '08 as they start over at quarterback for what seems the fourth or fifth time in the last year. Olson has some promise: he completed 73.0% of his throws and made a lot of big plays, but needs to cut down on the interceptions if he's to be in the mix. Getsy did a nice job to beat out eighth-round pick Zac Taylor for the third-string job, but that's about all the further he'll go.
RB: DeAngelo Willams, Justin Vincent, Jarrett Ferguson, Cory Anderson
Williams once again put his big-play ability on display, breaking off two long touchdown runs and rushing for ten touchdowns through eight games. Unfortunately he alternated a couple of brilliant games with a couple of clunkers and cost himself a 1000-yard season, also failing to score a touchdown in those last four. He was also a decent receiver out of the backfield, with 31 catches and a touchdown. Vincent had a strong game against the X-Bowl champion Hitmen in week eight but not much else. Ferguson had 37 grabs and a pair of touchdowns and is a decent blocker. Anderson only played in two games.
WR: Chansi Stuckey, David Terrell, Charles Lee, Chauncey Stovall, Jason Carter
Losing Kelly Campbell was huge in an offense that already has enough problems at the quarterback position. Fortunately for the Ironmen, Stuckey proved to be a good replacement for Johnnie Morant early in the season, and the loss of Morant will hardly hurt as much as Campbell. The Ironmen will most likely draft Campbell's replacement with the #2 pick. Lee and Carter combined to catch five passes. Stovall caught 20 passes for 336 yards in Jacksonville two years ago but was hurt and released by the Bulls at midseason a year ago. Terrell gave the Bulls roughly the same production last year. Neither is looked at as much more than a #3.
TE: Brian Natkin, Alex Smith, Erik Gill
Natkin caught 51 passes a year ago in D.C. and should become the threat at tight end the Ironmen need. Smith has showed flashes throughout his three-year career but his 19 catches for 128 yards is hardly eye-popping production. Gill is a good blocking tight end, but not much else.
OL: Adam Goldberg, Levi Brown, Jake Grove, Bryan Anderson, Matt Anderle, John Simonitis, Charles Spencer, Troy Reddick, Kevin Bailey, Surprisingly, the best pass protection unit in the league was right here, and that was without their best lineman. Spencer missed the entire 2007 season with knee damage and his return in '08 is 50/50. Goldberg, who hadn't played left tackle since 2005 for the Outlaws, was amazing especially considering he wasn't very effective when playing on that side in the past. The Ironmen yielded 12 sacks, so the quarterbacks couldn't blame the line play. Also making a big impact was Brown, whom the Ironmen were concerned they'd have to play at left tackle in his rookie year. The Ironmen hope to have both Brown and Spencer anchoring both ends of the line eventually. The Ironmen had hoped to get both Grove and Jacob Bell back, but only got Grove as Bell left for San Francisco, so there will be open competition for the right guard spot between Anderle and Simonitis. Anderson is solid, but not spectacular.
DL: Chris Canty, Omari Hand, Orien Harris, Mike Kudla, Jordon Hill, Ahmad Childress
The Ironmen had also thought about drafting a nose tackle with the #2 pick but it's apparent they'll wait until the second or third round. Whomever they draft will, they hope, be able to free up Canty to return to the impact pass rusher he was two years ago, he had just three sacks last year. Hand led the team with six sacks and was by far their best pass rusher. Childress has potential as a run stuffer, but that was the line on him in Washington too and it never translated. He could thrive, however, in a new defense.
LB: Abdul Hodge, D.D. Acholonu, Keyaron Fox, Ahmad Brooks, Andre Arnold, Dallas Sartz
Acholonu's presence should help the pass rush. He hasn't been an impact player since he had 13 sacks with Memphis in 2005, but moving back to a 3-4 should help him. In fact, Rex Ryan has even dared to make Terrell Suggs comparisons on occasion. Hodge has been a lights-out hitter in his first two seasons and has adapted well to the 3-4. Brooks has played both outside and inside and could start at either, where former first-rounder Fox has finally started living up to potential. Arnold, an Ironmen original and the last one left, has been a starter for the most part since 2002, will move into a reserve role.
DB: James Sanders, Abdual Howard, Stanley Wilson, Ashton Youboty, Korey Banks, Eric Weddle, Nate Salley
The problem here is that the unit gives up way too many big plays, including a league-high 22 touchdown passes. The defensive backs just haven't been in sync and changes were hinted at by new defensive coordinator Corwin Brown. Despite leading the team with 87 tackles, Howard was a disappointment after coming over from Memphis and the Ironmen even offered him up in trade talks over the offseason, but they went nowhere. Nonetheless, Howard will probably on the outside looking in. Weddle is set to take over a starting role Sanders actually had a pretty good season, the only one of the starters that did. At cornerback, Banks has probably played his last game after Youboty took over at midseason and did a decent job, with a pair of interceptions, while Wilson hasn't become the cover corner the Ironmen need.
ST: Dustin Colquitt (P), Chansi Stuckey (KR), Eric Weddle (PR)
The Ironmen lost Nate Kaeding, but considering he hit just 16 of 22 field goals and was a general disappointment throughout his run with the Ironmen it might not be a bad thing. Colquitt was, on occasion, the team's best defensive weapon as he averaged 46.8 yards per punt and put 16 inside the 20 although his return coverage hardly helped him out by yielding 16.6 yards per return. Stuckey returned a kick for a touchdown and Weddle will likely take over the punt return duties.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. WR-The Ironmen have enough offensive problems. Not having a legit #1 wideout exacerbates it. The draft is top-heavy at receiver and will allow the Ironmen to put off their need up the middle for a round, maybe two.
2. DT-The Ironmen, especially Ryan, would love to have Frank Okam but Okam's been so up-and-down throughout his college career and it's continued into all-star games the offseason that Okam is looking more Shaun Rogers than Casey Hampton. Still, hoping that Childress somehow morphs into Aubrayo Franklin will be a greater risk than whatever the Ironmen can get here.
3. CB-The secondary was bad, but with Weddle replacing Howard at free safety, the Ironmen should be okay there with Weddle and Sanders. But the corners were dreadful. Banks is probably gone and Wilson could follow. Youboty will get a chance after a decent audition in '07 but that leaves the Ironmen with another vacancy. This may be a end of first-day pick.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:17:48 GMT -5
SAN FRANCISCO DEMONS
QB: Andrew Walter, Shaun King, Drew Tate
Walter was making strides in his first year as a starter before a shoulder injury prematurely ended his season, but the bottom fell out in 2007, as he was sacked 31 times and threw 12 interceptions to just six touchdowns, completing just 53.0% of his passes along the way. King was a mixed bag: he didn't throw an interception, but, after the Jacksonville game, couldn't get the offense into the endzone, although a faulty running game had something to do with it. Tate played in the finale and showed signs, but still wouldn't be anything more than the backup as King isn't likely to return.
RB: Darius Walker, Jarrod Baxter
Walker averaged only 3.1 yards per carry but the Demons felt he has more upside than Gerald Riggs, whom the Demons released despite being their leading rusher in 2007. The Demons will draft heavy here, probably even taking two unless they can luck out late with a waiver-wire pickup. Baxter is still a dependable fullback, but the Demons could also upgrade there.
WR: Reggie Brown, Anthony Gonzalez, Kevin Youngblood, Martin Nance, P.K. Sam
Brown is the top returning receiver akter the offseason retirements of Jimmy Cunningham and tight end Brian Roche. But Brown doesn't resemble a #1 type that defenses will pay attention to with double-teams although he did have three touchdowns. Gonzalez, on the other hand, does despite just one trip to the endzone. Youngblood was highly productive his first few years with Washington, but disappeared and was slowly phased out last year. Nance and Sam are decent backups, though Sam did not have a catch and saw most of his action on special teams.
TE: David Thomas, Spencer Nead
Thomas could be used as an H-back because he is a strong blocking fullback but is also a good receiver who will get plenty of balls thrown his way with the retirement of Roche. Nead has been the team's long snapper since 2003 and won't figure into the offense.
OL: Rob Murphy, Jacob Bell, Marcel Howard, Daniel Santucci, Marcus Johnson, Jason Scukanec, Donovan Raiola, Adam Snyder, Teag Whiting, Brandon Winey
Injuries had a lot to do with the protection problems, as the Demons gave up 47 sacks, one behind Los Angeles. Howard, a former first round pick, may be at the end of his rope after a series of knee and shoulder injuries. Murphy will probably be bumped over to left tackle and Bell, who played right guard in Pittsburgh, will be shifted over to the left side. Scukanec is also getting up there, and the Demons would like to get Raiola into the starting lineup. A bevy of youngsters could fight for jobs on the right side, the Demons weren't all that happy with Whiting and Johnson.
DL: Tully Banta-Cain, Randy Starks, David Warren, Ronald Fields, Manase Hopoi, Charles Bennett, Louis Leonard
Warren led the league in sacks for the second time in his career and finished in double digits for the fourth time, while Banta-Cain only had five sacks and considered signing with the Monarchs but returned to the Bay. Fields will move into the starting lineup alongside Starks, and the Demons should still be fairly strong up the middle. Hopoi has great speed and will get on the field for a few plays because of it.
LB: Alge Atkinson, Kirk Morrison, Freddie Keiaho, Shawn Price, Isaac Hilton, Monty Beisel
Atkinson led the league in tackles for the third straight season and is a complete linebacker, but is at his best against the run. After winning Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2006, Keiaho followed it up with another strong year in 2007, registering 11 sacks and becoming a strong pass rushing force from the weak side. Morrison occasionally has size issues, but played relatively well and should have several good years ahead of him. Hilton is a solid reserve who can also play some rush end in the nickel. Price was a starter in Carolina prior to the Colonels' move to a 3-4, while Beisel played both inside and out last season in Kansas City.
DB: David Mitchell, Eric Green, Kevin Kaesviharn, Brodney Pool, Donnie Nickey, Ryan Smith, T.J. Rushing, Donnie McCleskey
Mitchell had ony three interceptions last year after ten in 2006, but in addition to his strong coverage skills he gives the Demons sure tackling on run support. Green is a solid #2 corner. Kaesviharn can play both safety and cornerback and is a highly regarded player, he and Pool form one of the best safety duos in the league. Nickey is solid in nickel and dime roles.
ST: Jose Cortez (K), T.J. Rushing (RET)
Cortez had the fewest extra point attempts in the league because of the Demons' offensive futility, but was 24 of 29 on field goals and is still going years after Tommy Maddox questioned his kicking abilities. The Demons need a punter after Brian Morton scampered to Kansas City. Rushing, who missed the 2007 season with a broken foot sustained in preseason, will take over as the primary return man after the Demons did not re-sign either Dexter Wynn or James Newson, a move that could prove costly.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. RB-Using the #7 pick on a running back is a given. The Demons likely won't have a shot at the top echelon of running backs but this is a deep class to where that won't be a concern.
2. TE-The Demons will likely move Thomas to fullback, creating an opening at tight end, where Craig Stevens would be an excellent local pick.
3. WR-The Demons need depth, and this will probably an area they go for early in Day 2.
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Post by MGB01 on Mar 17, 2008 14:18:20 GMT -5
SEATTLE REIGN
QB: John Navarre, Matt Gutierrez, David Greene
Navarre had another 3000-yard passing season, although his touchdowns were down to 16 in 2007. Nonetheless Navarre has a full grasp of the offense and only injuries can slow him down at this point. Gutierrez supplanted Greene as the backup and made some appearances, including a start against Los Angeles in the season finale. Greene looks to be out of chances.
RB: Lorenzo Booker, J.J. Arrington, Damien Rhodes, Mike Karney
Booker looks to be a solution to the Reign's rushing woes. He can regularly break tackles with his electrifying moves but head coach Mike Zimmer has indicated he'd like to add another back in the draft. This would indicate that Arrington, who rushed for a career-low 3.2 yards per carry and was his most productive as a kick returner, where even there he was just average, is all but out of the picture and Rhodes, who led the team with five touchdowns, will be relegated to being the third back.
WR: Derek Hagan, Mike Hass, Johnnie Morant, Laterio Rachal
As much as the team will miss Devard Darling they aren't empty handed, as Hagan caught 60 passes for an otustanding 1174 yards and led the team with six touchdowns. Hass has been productive in his first two seasons but the Reign look at him more as a slot receiver. The same can be said for Morant, who repeatedly wasn't able to hold onto a starting job in Pittsburgh because of injuries. Rachal will be hard-pressed to get in the mix and at 35, might retire.
TE: Dominique Byrd, Brett Pierce
This could be the biggest potential problem area on the team because Byrd continues to be a disappoitment on and off the field. Byrd is a top-flight athlete, as evidenced by a 60-yard catch-and-run last year but has plenty of maturity issues that will have the Reign looking for a tight end in the draft. Pierce is a blocking tight end who also appears mostly on special teams.
OL: Jacob Rogers, David Baas, Fred Matua, Nick Hardwick, Jeremy Parquet, Tala Esera, James Marten, Joe Toledo
Rogers, the second pick in team history and, other than Navarre, the only one left from the expansion year, has been been mostly a disappointment as people continue to ry and figure out why he's still at left tackle. That likely will end whenever Toledo gets healthy enough to replace him. Baas, billed as the next great Michigan lineman who even drew comparisons to Steve Hutchinson when he came out in 2005, hasn't lived up to it. Hardwick is the steadying force on otherwise disapponting line although Matua is coming around. Marten is the replacement-in-waiting for Parquet at right tackle
DL: Shaun Cody, Jonathan Babineaux, Brandon Mebane, Erik Flowers, Jovan Haye, Mkristo Bruce
The Reign got lucky when Babineaux, the younger brother of Seahawk defensive back Jordan, became available after the Glory released him. Babineaux had five sacks and led the team in quarterback pressures but isn't the force against the run that Mebane is. Zimmer even went so far as to say Mebane should have considered for defensive rookie of the year. Cody hasn't become the pass rusher Zimmer has wanted, but will get that chance as he moves over to defensive end to take over for Bryce Fisher, the team's most productive defensive lineman. Flowers had a strong year in something of a make-or-break season. Haye and Bruce add depth at defensive end, but the Reign need to address the tackle spot in the draft.
LB: Gilbert Gardner, Anthony Waters, Keith Ellison, Will Derting, Trent Bray
Waters was in the midst of challenging for Rookie of the Year when he got into an off-field spat, resulting in a two-game suspension. Still, he led the team with ten sacks and had 50 tackles. Gardner is decent against the run, but not as great as his numbers would suggest. Ellison might have gotten the shot last year, but a leg injury in preseason held him back, forcing the team to keep Caspor Stiles. After turning him loose, Ellison will get his opportunity. Derting is decent reserve pass rusher. Bray played most of the season on special teams.
DB: Corey Ivy, Daymeion Hughes, Will Allen, Eric Frampton, Lamon Means, Alex Teems
The secondary played okay during the regular season but their deficiencies were exposed by Bart Hendricks and the Maniax in the playoffs, thus three free agents were allowed to leave. Allen is a more physical safety and better in pass coverage but has had some problems tackling in the past. Frampton, a second-day pick in the NFL Draft a year ago, has great ballhawking skills. Ivy was the only player the Reign really trusted in the secondary. Hughes is a quick corner who will move into the starting lineup, Teems will replace him as the nickel back.
ST: Nate Kaeding (K), Tom Malone (P), J.J. Arrington (KR), Derek Hagan (PR)
Kaeding was a bit of a disappointment in Pittsburgh and hopes the move west will give him a bit of a boost. Malone had a strong year, and his coverage unit was especially good to him, allowing just 9.7 yards per return. Hagan was impressive but the Reign might be looking to replace him in order to keep him fresh as their top wideout, while they're also looking to replace Arrington.
DRAFT NEEDS 1. TE-The Reign could be one of three teams all with consecutive picks in the first round looking to upgrade at tight end. Ben Hartsock was very productive, with 31 grabs and four touchdown catches, but was deemed too slow. How high they draft a tight end depends on how confident they feel in Byrd, who hasn't done much to inspire them his first two years.
2. DT-Depth is needed here with Cody moving outside and both backup tackles leaving in free agency. The Reign have their eyes on Ahtyba Rubin, who would make an excellent third-down tackle.
3. WR-Hagan should be able to step up as a #1 receiver, but Hass is more looked at as a slot receiver, and Morant has injury questions. They might be tempted to use their first-round pick on a wideout.
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