Post by MGB01 on Sept 14, 2010 15:31:05 GMT -5
Birmingham Bolts
2010: 6-8, 3rd AC East
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OLB, OL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: WR, CB
Brian Brohm struggled in 2010 because of his OL, which gave up 42 sacks. Talk is that Travelle Wharton can't handle left tackle anymore, which could lead his outright release, a more distinct possibility with Russ Grimm, who had all-XFL LT Michael Roos in Jacksonville, now calling the shots......Pass rush would be nice, most of the team's 26 sacks came from the DL, a rarity in a three-man front. LaMarr Woodley wasn't happy with the coverage schemes under the previous regime (his lone sack came in the season finale) yet Grimm isn't about to re-sign a malcontent......Should the Bolts lose either Sinorice Moss or Fred Bennett then WR and CB will become two areas of need.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: With Vernon Carey, who played for the Bolts from 2003-2006, about to re-sign with the X-Bowl champion Glory, and potentially Eric Winston in Las Vegas, the options don't look so appealing. Kareem Marshall, Khalif Barnes, and possibly Sean Locklear all come with question marks, even Barnes, who was an all-XFL selection in 2009 yet only got a one-year deal from LA in free agency......Tempting as it would be to try for Manny Lawson or Gilbert Gardner the Bolts already have a backup plan in Curtis Johnson, although Jameel McClain, who saw extensive action for the Hitmen in 2010 and started two games, would be a nice under-the-radar pickup
Carolina Colonels
2010: 8-6, 2nd AC East
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: NT, WR
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, OT
Kevin O'Connell failed to repeat his 2009 success partly because of one thing: INJURIES. The I-word hit at RB (Andre Brown), OL (Kevin Boothe), and WR (basically everybody at one point), leaving O'Connell with essentially one less playmaker every week. This is now the second time Brown has been hurt (he missed the 2009 postseason with a torn ACL) and Matt Forte, although he came on in the final month, has been hurt and nowhere near the same back he was when he was the league's top rookie in 2008, leaving RB as potential need for the Colonels in FA......At nose tackle the Colonels have the soon-to-be 38-year old Grady Jackson and not much else. Jason Shirley suffered a season-ending injury in a pickup basketball game, leaving the Colonels to scramble and sign veteran Howard Green......With the rash of injuries at wideout, the Colonels would be wise to look in that direction as well......With both tackles scheduled to be FAs and the Colonels not really bent on bringing them back, that looks to be an area as well although with their recent draft history--every starter on the OL last year was drafted by Carolina--they'll likely address it then.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: While the Glory will dangle Ron Brace in the offseason it's much more likely you'll see Al Davis hoist another Super Bowl trophy than this year's X-Bowl champs deal him to a division rival, especially when it happens to be the previous year's. So back to square one for the Colonels, which means they'll be in the bidding for Gabe Watson. The Colonels could also be in hunt for a slightly undersized low-cost option like Ian Scott, who really isn't cut out to be a 3-4 nose tackle but did very well splitting time with Frank Okam in San Antonio......With Forte and Brown's injury histories the Colonels could go for the home run and sign Joseph Addai.
Chicago Enforcers
2010: 2-12, 4th NC North
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OT, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DL
Interestingly enough a team that went 2-12 is in surprisingly good shape all things considered, but the OL will be a really heavy reconstruction job: Tarlos Thomas is just about out of gas and may retire, and the Enforcers don't sound too thrilled at the thought of Adam Terry replacing him. Max Unger was a wreck after coming over from Seattle in a trade, yet since he was part of the deal that also in effect landed the Enforcers Jimmy Clausen and Taylor Mays they won't give up on him. They do have an offer on the table for Ryan Kalil, though, which would be a huge re-sign......The shift to a 3-4, Rex Ryan's forte, as well as the return of Cedric Griffin, who missed the entire 2010 season with a torn ACL, should make the Enforcers better on defense but they'll still need another OLB, as Navorro Bowman was essentially rushed into the strating lineup after the trade of Thomas Howard and struggled at times to adapt.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Former Enforcer first-rounder Khalif Barnes earned all-XFL honors moving over to left tackle and subbing for an injured Tarlos Thomas in 2009, but it wasn't enough to make the team want to break the bank for him. Indeed, all he got was a one-year deal and returned to being a question mark on the only team worse than the Enforcers in 2010, in which the Enforcers might be just as well off with Terry or another FA acquisition at left tackle in 2011. Eric Winston will be targetted as well, although the Outlaws are trying to re-sign him......A shift to a 3-4 would send Lawrence Sidbury to OLB, and create an opening on the other side as Bowman will likely move inside alongside all-world starter Patrick Willis. In that case, the Enforcers could make a move for Manny Lawson.
Dallas Lonestars
2010: 8-6, 2nd AC South, lost to KC 27-20 in first round.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DB, OL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB
With Jared Zabransky taken care of the next order of business is to lock up Selvin Young, coming off another solid year. But other than that the secondary could still use help, not that they played badly, in fact oft-maligned Corey Webster played very well as the season wore on, going toe-to-toe with such all-XFL receivers as Chad Jackson, Vincent Jackson, and Jeremaine Copeland and holding them largely in check. But receivers such as Mike Williams, Steve Breaston, and DeSean Jackson showed that he still has a way to go......It looks like Dallas is going to make a change at left tackle, replacing Dallas native Jordan Black, the last player left from the original squad, and might also have some concerns at left guard, where Herman Johnson played well as a rookie but really regressed in his second year with weight issues.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Rashad Butler has barely played in his five seasons between Orlando and Dallas but really worked hard to make the roster in 2010 and, should the Lonestars bring him back, could be in line for a starting gig in 2011. But, understandably so, the Lonestars will look elsewhere first. '09 draftee Jamon Meredith will replace Jonathan Scott at right tackle. So it's highly possible that the only free agents the Lonestars sign at OL are career backups, or they might just wait until the draft since most FA OL are former starters......The Lonestars will, however (considering the above), be in the market for Fred Bennett, Jonathan Wade, or Brian Williams.
Detroit Mustangs
2010: 9-5, T-1st NC North, lost to PIT 27-24(OT) in first round.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DL, OL
The Mustangs were a good defensive team because of Trevor Laws' 19 sacks. They could have been a very good defensive team had they not taken a pair of hits at linebacker, first the sudden retirement of 2009 third-round pick Marcus Freeman due to a heart condition, then the late-season injury to second-rounder Donald Butler. While Butler should be good to go for '11 they need some quality depth, and also may be in the market for a middle linebacker with Motown native Larry Foote a free agent. With the Mustangs set to unload Vincent Jackson because of their tremendous depth at WR, this will likely be taken care of there.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: It's possible that the only area that the Mustangs concentrate on in free agency is the O-line, specifically the interior, depending on what they can get for Jackson. It's almost unthinkable that the Mustangs would let veteran Marico Portis, a fixture at left guard and a big reason why Matt Kegel was the league's OPOY as well as the Mustangs finally making it to the playoffs, get away. With Will Montgomery moving over to center, that opens up a vacancy at right guard for a Josh Beekman, Manuel Ramirez, or Kasey Studdard.
Kansas City Monarchs
2010: 10-4, 1st in AC South, beat Dallas 27-20 in first round, lost to Washington 33-20 in AC Championship.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: QB, RB
Anthony Calvillo's 2010 might have been his most frustrating for Monarchs fans. Yes he was named to his fifth straight all-XFL team, but also not only turned the ball over way too many times, but also failed to lead the Monarchs to the endzone in the second half of a loss to SA that ended up deciding home field (and the X-Bowl champion as it turned out). It could finally be Colt Brennan's time after three years of waiting. While Lendale White, he of the two-game suspension at midseason for a substance violation, and Mike Williams, he of a brutal fumble in the first half against the Glory in the AC title game loss, may be about to find out the meaning of what-have-you-done-for-me-lately, the Monarchs have questions in the secondary after a rash of late-season injuries, which were exploited by Jordan Shipley and Jeremaine Copeland for big plays in the postseason.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: With Kevin Mawae weighing his options on whether to return for an 18th professional season, the Monarchs might be inclined to shuffle the OL. Above all else, the secondary will be addressed, one player that has been mentioned is Dashon Goldson, coming off a breakout year in WAS, which would move Erik Coleman over to SS.
Las Vegas Outlaws
2010: 8-6, 2nd NC West
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: WR, LB
Both Eric Winston and Chris Denman are free agents, and although the Outlaws have reportedly thrown $10-15 million at Winston to stay, he is still considering hitting the open market. the always steady Nate Burleson is coming off his best season, but the problem is when he regresses back to being merely a good WR from his career year, the Outlaws are going to look pretty stupid paying him (Chad) Jackson/Copeland money.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Replacing Burleson would be a lot easier than replacing former first-round pick Winston, who entrenched himself in the starting lineup when the Outlaws' pass protection was embarrassing, even as they won consecutive X-Bowls. Fast-forward to 2010, the Outlaws gave up just 16 sacks. Based on that alone as well as the Outlaws' own track record of personnel moves, it would be safe to predict that Burleson will be moving on to a new team in '11. The Outlaws could replace him with a lower-cost option like Terrence Edwards, whom they originally drafted in 2003, or Johnnie Morant.
Los Angeles Xtreme
2010: 1-13, 4th NC West
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: WR, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, OL
How did this team go from playoffs to the #1 overall in the 2011 draft? Their inability to sustain drives for starters. A big-play receiver is sorely needed: Kareem Kelly isn't it, and while Demetrius Williams and Deon Butler are plenty productive, neither do they fit the bill. So bank on the Xtreme making an upgrade. The Xtreme also really missed Larry Foote's presence at ILB last year, and while Antwan Barnes was the team's #2 tackler, the inexperience showed as the X-Men didn't really have a strong outside presence.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Maurice Jones-Drew is waiting to see what the Xtreme do in FA before he decides on his future plans. Good reason, the Xtreme have plenty to do. Having whiffed on Elvis Dumervil last offseason, the Xtreme could land LaMarr Woodley, but management has showed concerns about him after he more or less was a malcontent about everything from him contract to the Bolts' defensive schemes, and it in turn showed in his underwhelming output. Kliff Kingsbury has thrown less INTs in the last two seasons combined than some QBs in the league threw in 2010, but with an unspectacular OL, you have to wonder how long that will last. Striking gold in the quest for a playmaking WR, whether it from the Chad Jackson/Santonio Holmes FA camp, or trading for Vincent Jackson or Mike Williams, will help greatly.
Memphis Maniax
2010: 6-8, 3rd AC South
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: WR
POTENTIAL NEEDS: LB
It would be a huge blow to the Maniax' efforts to return to postseason contention should they lose either of their two best players, WRs Steve Breaston and Brandon Myles, although it looks like that's exactly what will happen. The Maniax have almost conceded that Breaston will leave, as they've shifted their efforts to a new deal for MLB Omar Gaither
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: The Maniax would like to get at least Myles back, and pairing him up with say, Anthony Gonzalez, whose stock will take a dip in the offseason waters because of injury concerns, isn't out of the realm of possibilty. Not only is Gaither a pending FA, but so is valuable special teamer Desmond Bishop. With a dearth of starting under-30 talent at MLB available (other than Gaither, who can play both inside and outside, and David Harris, who's really more suited to a 3-4) the Maniax can really ill-afford to lose Gaither. They could also be interested in upgrading at SLB, in which Gilbert Gardner would fit that bill.
New York Hitmen
2010: 7-7, 3rd NC North
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OL, WR, DL, RB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DB
After coming off, what Romeo Crennel called, the Hitmen's weirdest season ever in his seven years, they'll surely take a back-to-business approach for 2011 after missing the postseason for the first time since 2006. The Hitmen will need to re-evaluate their OL and get some depth on a three-man defensive front which missed it in '10
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Phil Loadholt will move to left tackle, replacing Kareem Marshall, leaving the Hitmen to fill a void at right tackle. Jonathan Scott or Chris Denman would probably the two biggest name choices, but Mike Otto, who filled in at right tackle in place of Marc Colombo during WAS' championship run, is another possibility. Only one rushing touchdown for Ray Rice, which came in the finale, speaks to the team's need for a goal-line back. This could be a spot for a bigger back like Brian Leonard or Isaac Redman. Watching Emmett Johnson and Ashante Woodyard, both deemed the O-word, go on to KC and have strong years, hurt, so don't be surprised to see the Hitmen pursue a 30ish veteran like Terrence Edwards or Brian Williams (both 31).
Orlando Rage
2010: 4-10, 4th AC East
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OL, WR, DL, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, QB
After going a respectable 4-7 in his first campaign with the Rage since being promoted to head coach, Chuck Cecil will understandably want to start anew, which means the Rage will likely have the most roster turnover of any team in the league. None of Orlando's free agents are worth losing any sleep over, and if there's any team that needs bigtime players, it's Orlando.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: While reacquiring Vincent Jackson (who played for the Rage from 2005-2008) will probably cost the Rage more in terms of draft picks and needed spare parts, they'll move on to the Chad Jackson/Santonio Holmes/Steve Breaston trinity and surely wind up with one, giving Andre Woodson a legit #1 target. It's no secret that the Rage were targeting Gabe Watson since the end of the season (and probably before), tampering charges be damned. With former firsts Drew Stanton and Marshawn Lynch on the trade block, QB and RB will become areas of need from a depth standpoint.
Pittsburgh Maulers
2010: 9-5, T-1st NC North, beat Detroit 27-24(OT) in first round, lost to San Francisco 17-13 in NC championship.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DL, OL, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB
Interestingly enough, with Joseph Addai and Chad Jackson set to go out on the market neither RB or WR is a serious need, partly because Jonathan Dwyer ran the ball so well in his rookie year (and then in the playoffs, where he was the team's clear workhorse back) and Pierre Garcon stepped up with Limas Sweed out for the season. The Maulers' needs are basically depth-related, meaning they could eschew the FA market altogether and go to the draft for reinforcements.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: See above: while the Mauler fan might go crazy visualizing former Pittsburghers (Ironmen) DeAngelo Williams or Eric Weddle back in the fold, the fact remains that they don't really need either, although with Kevin Kaesviharn now 34 Weddle would be a nice pickup. Some young, cheap OL depth is the main thing but they'll probably target that in the spring come draft day.
San Antonio Stampede
2010: 7-7, 3rd AC South
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: CB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, OL
While the Stampede can proudly point to the fact that they swept two playoff teams (Dallas, Kansas City) and also beat the X-Bowl champion Glory as their big first-season-in-the-Alamo highlight, they went 2-7 against everyone else (only two were against playoff teams, both losses) and were watching the postseason despite a 4-0 start. Part of the reason cause Chase Clement was clearly a different passer the second half of the year after it looked like he might become the league's first 5000-yard passer. Part of that was the late-season injury to LT Adam Goldberg, and the whole OL seemed to collapse after that. Now, the Stamps need to figure out a way to re-sign DeAngelo Williams.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: The Stampede will have two prime objectives in the offseason: re-sign Williams and upgrade at CB. Losing Dominique Foxworth late in the year hurt the unit but in truth it needs a redesign anyway. Fred Bennett will be in the Stampede's sights as they move Myron Lewis over to FS, replacing the departing Eric Weddle.
San Francisco Demons
2010: 10-4, 1st NC West, beat Pittsburgh 17-13 in NC championship, lost to Washington 31-17 in X-Bowl X.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: WR
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DE, OLB
Nate Davis took tremendous strides as the Demons won their last seven regular-season games to clinch their second West division title in franchise history, then in somewhat surprising fashion shut down the Maulers in the NC championship game before falling to the Glory in X-Bowl X. Where do the X-Bowl runners-up go from here?
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Much talk of Sinorice Moss or Steve Breaston replacing Anthony Gonzalez as the top wideout, as Gonzalez has had all sorts of injury problems the last two years.
On defense, look for the Demons to make a run at Tommy Kelly and change things up, going from a smallish unit (at least at DE) to one more sizable. Of course, they'll look north if both of Seattle's two DTs make it to the market. The Demons have also shown interest in Omar Gaither, who would move back outside in SF's LB unit playing next to Kirk Morrison.
Seattle Reign
2010: 7-7, 3rd NC West
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DT, DB, OLB, RB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: OL, TE
One down, one to go. Seattle locked up Thomas Howard, now they need to re-sign Rodrique Wright--and Brandon Mebane while they're at it. Next is basically anywhere in their secondary, as both starting corners are FAs and Keith Lewis, who made a pair of starts last year, also is a FA. Then OLB, where Gilbert Gardner wrestled the starting SLB job away from Keith Ellison and had a fine year. But considering the uneven performance from Seattle's D as a whole, could you blame Jon Gruden if he isn't keen on bringing the D back in tact?
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: The above said, the front seven is solid, though maybe changes will be made to allow backup DT Red Bryant to compete for a job at DE, where he took some snaps in 2010. But the secondary is ripe for upgrades, could the Reign be ready to make a big splash for Dashon Goldson, who played at UW? Maybe Marcus McCauley, a physical corner they don't have?
Washington Glory
2010: 10-4, 1st AC East, beat Kansas City 33-20 in AC championship, beat San Francisco 31-17 in X-Bowl X.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB
The Glory took care of their most pressing need just two days after the X-Bowl by re-signing Sam Keller, who may have been passed over for the acclaim that went to Matt Kegel, Chase Clement, and Anthony Calvillo, but walked away with the prize, defeating Calvillo twice along the way. Now as the Glory make the switch to 3-4 all they really need to do is hold on to their FAs, namely FS Dashon Goldson, who enjoyed a breakout year.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: A problem for the Glory at midseason was the running game, in that Marion Barber seemed the be the only one that could run. But in the postseason Brandon Jackson and LeGarrette Blount both picked it up. The Glory would like to retain Jackson, who can be a powerful RB at times, but have plenty of potential FAs to choose from as a potential replacement. Derek Pegues, who will be a third-year player in 2011 and has seen plenty of action his first two seasons, would move into the starting role (he played three games at the end of the year with Goldson out with a neck injury) should Goldson leave.
2010: 6-8, 3rd AC East
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OLB, OL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: WR, CB
Brian Brohm struggled in 2010 because of his OL, which gave up 42 sacks. Talk is that Travelle Wharton can't handle left tackle anymore, which could lead his outright release, a more distinct possibility with Russ Grimm, who had all-XFL LT Michael Roos in Jacksonville, now calling the shots......Pass rush would be nice, most of the team's 26 sacks came from the DL, a rarity in a three-man front. LaMarr Woodley wasn't happy with the coverage schemes under the previous regime (his lone sack came in the season finale) yet Grimm isn't about to re-sign a malcontent......Should the Bolts lose either Sinorice Moss or Fred Bennett then WR and CB will become two areas of need.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: With Vernon Carey, who played for the Bolts from 2003-2006, about to re-sign with the X-Bowl champion Glory, and potentially Eric Winston in Las Vegas, the options don't look so appealing. Kareem Marshall, Khalif Barnes, and possibly Sean Locklear all come with question marks, even Barnes, who was an all-XFL selection in 2009 yet only got a one-year deal from LA in free agency......Tempting as it would be to try for Manny Lawson or Gilbert Gardner the Bolts already have a backup plan in Curtis Johnson, although Jameel McClain, who saw extensive action for the Hitmen in 2010 and started two games, would be a nice under-the-radar pickup
Carolina Colonels
2010: 8-6, 2nd AC East
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: NT, WR
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, OT
Kevin O'Connell failed to repeat his 2009 success partly because of one thing: INJURIES. The I-word hit at RB (Andre Brown), OL (Kevin Boothe), and WR (basically everybody at one point), leaving O'Connell with essentially one less playmaker every week. This is now the second time Brown has been hurt (he missed the 2009 postseason with a torn ACL) and Matt Forte, although he came on in the final month, has been hurt and nowhere near the same back he was when he was the league's top rookie in 2008, leaving RB as potential need for the Colonels in FA......At nose tackle the Colonels have the soon-to-be 38-year old Grady Jackson and not much else. Jason Shirley suffered a season-ending injury in a pickup basketball game, leaving the Colonels to scramble and sign veteran Howard Green......With the rash of injuries at wideout, the Colonels would be wise to look in that direction as well......With both tackles scheduled to be FAs and the Colonels not really bent on bringing them back, that looks to be an area as well although with their recent draft history--every starter on the OL last year was drafted by Carolina--they'll likely address it then.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: While the Glory will dangle Ron Brace in the offseason it's much more likely you'll see Al Davis hoist another Super Bowl trophy than this year's X-Bowl champs deal him to a division rival, especially when it happens to be the previous year's. So back to square one for the Colonels, which means they'll be in the bidding for Gabe Watson. The Colonels could also be in hunt for a slightly undersized low-cost option like Ian Scott, who really isn't cut out to be a 3-4 nose tackle but did very well splitting time with Frank Okam in San Antonio......With Forte and Brown's injury histories the Colonels could go for the home run and sign Joseph Addai.
Chicago Enforcers
2010: 2-12, 4th NC North
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OT, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DL
Interestingly enough a team that went 2-12 is in surprisingly good shape all things considered, but the OL will be a really heavy reconstruction job: Tarlos Thomas is just about out of gas and may retire, and the Enforcers don't sound too thrilled at the thought of Adam Terry replacing him. Max Unger was a wreck after coming over from Seattle in a trade, yet since he was part of the deal that also in effect landed the Enforcers Jimmy Clausen and Taylor Mays they won't give up on him. They do have an offer on the table for Ryan Kalil, though, which would be a huge re-sign......The shift to a 3-4, Rex Ryan's forte, as well as the return of Cedric Griffin, who missed the entire 2010 season with a torn ACL, should make the Enforcers better on defense but they'll still need another OLB, as Navorro Bowman was essentially rushed into the strating lineup after the trade of Thomas Howard and struggled at times to adapt.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Former Enforcer first-rounder Khalif Barnes earned all-XFL honors moving over to left tackle and subbing for an injured Tarlos Thomas in 2009, but it wasn't enough to make the team want to break the bank for him. Indeed, all he got was a one-year deal and returned to being a question mark on the only team worse than the Enforcers in 2010, in which the Enforcers might be just as well off with Terry or another FA acquisition at left tackle in 2011. Eric Winston will be targetted as well, although the Outlaws are trying to re-sign him......A shift to a 3-4 would send Lawrence Sidbury to OLB, and create an opening on the other side as Bowman will likely move inside alongside all-world starter Patrick Willis. In that case, the Enforcers could make a move for Manny Lawson.
Dallas Lonestars
2010: 8-6, 2nd AC South, lost to KC 27-20 in first round.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DB, OL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB
With Jared Zabransky taken care of the next order of business is to lock up Selvin Young, coming off another solid year. But other than that the secondary could still use help, not that they played badly, in fact oft-maligned Corey Webster played very well as the season wore on, going toe-to-toe with such all-XFL receivers as Chad Jackson, Vincent Jackson, and Jeremaine Copeland and holding them largely in check. But receivers such as Mike Williams, Steve Breaston, and DeSean Jackson showed that he still has a way to go......It looks like Dallas is going to make a change at left tackle, replacing Dallas native Jordan Black, the last player left from the original squad, and might also have some concerns at left guard, where Herman Johnson played well as a rookie but really regressed in his second year with weight issues.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Rashad Butler has barely played in his five seasons between Orlando and Dallas but really worked hard to make the roster in 2010 and, should the Lonestars bring him back, could be in line for a starting gig in 2011. But, understandably so, the Lonestars will look elsewhere first. '09 draftee Jamon Meredith will replace Jonathan Scott at right tackle. So it's highly possible that the only free agents the Lonestars sign at OL are career backups, or they might just wait until the draft since most FA OL are former starters......The Lonestars will, however (considering the above), be in the market for Fred Bennett, Jonathan Wade, or Brian Williams.
Detroit Mustangs
2010: 9-5, T-1st NC North, lost to PIT 27-24(OT) in first round.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DL, OL
The Mustangs were a good defensive team because of Trevor Laws' 19 sacks. They could have been a very good defensive team had they not taken a pair of hits at linebacker, first the sudden retirement of 2009 third-round pick Marcus Freeman due to a heart condition, then the late-season injury to second-rounder Donald Butler. While Butler should be good to go for '11 they need some quality depth, and also may be in the market for a middle linebacker with Motown native Larry Foote a free agent. With the Mustangs set to unload Vincent Jackson because of their tremendous depth at WR, this will likely be taken care of there.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: It's possible that the only area that the Mustangs concentrate on in free agency is the O-line, specifically the interior, depending on what they can get for Jackson. It's almost unthinkable that the Mustangs would let veteran Marico Portis, a fixture at left guard and a big reason why Matt Kegel was the league's OPOY as well as the Mustangs finally making it to the playoffs, get away. With Will Montgomery moving over to center, that opens up a vacancy at right guard for a Josh Beekman, Manuel Ramirez, or Kasey Studdard.
Kansas City Monarchs
2010: 10-4, 1st in AC South, beat Dallas 27-20 in first round, lost to Washington 33-20 in AC Championship.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: QB, RB
Anthony Calvillo's 2010 might have been his most frustrating for Monarchs fans. Yes he was named to his fifth straight all-XFL team, but also not only turned the ball over way too many times, but also failed to lead the Monarchs to the endzone in the second half of a loss to SA that ended up deciding home field (and the X-Bowl champion as it turned out). It could finally be Colt Brennan's time after three years of waiting. While Lendale White, he of the two-game suspension at midseason for a substance violation, and Mike Williams, he of a brutal fumble in the first half against the Glory in the AC title game loss, may be about to find out the meaning of what-have-you-done-for-me-lately, the Monarchs have questions in the secondary after a rash of late-season injuries, which were exploited by Jordan Shipley and Jeremaine Copeland for big plays in the postseason.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: With Kevin Mawae weighing his options on whether to return for an 18th professional season, the Monarchs might be inclined to shuffle the OL. Above all else, the secondary will be addressed, one player that has been mentioned is Dashon Goldson, coming off a breakout year in WAS, which would move Erik Coleman over to SS.
Las Vegas Outlaws
2010: 8-6, 2nd NC West
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: WR, LB
Both Eric Winston and Chris Denman are free agents, and although the Outlaws have reportedly thrown $10-15 million at Winston to stay, he is still considering hitting the open market. the always steady Nate Burleson is coming off his best season, but the problem is when he regresses back to being merely a good WR from his career year, the Outlaws are going to look pretty stupid paying him (Chad) Jackson/Copeland money.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Replacing Burleson would be a lot easier than replacing former first-round pick Winston, who entrenched himself in the starting lineup when the Outlaws' pass protection was embarrassing, even as they won consecutive X-Bowls. Fast-forward to 2010, the Outlaws gave up just 16 sacks. Based on that alone as well as the Outlaws' own track record of personnel moves, it would be safe to predict that Burleson will be moving on to a new team in '11. The Outlaws could replace him with a lower-cost option like Terrence Edwards, whom they originally drafted in 2003, or Johnnie Morant.
Los Angeles Xtreme
2010: 1-13, 4th NC West
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: WR, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, OL
How did this team go from playoffs to the #1 overall in the 2011 draft? Their inability to sustain drives for starters. A big-play receiver is sorely needed: Kareem Kelly isn't it, and while Demetrius Williams and Deon Butler are plenty productive, neither do they fit the bill. So bank on the Xtreme making an upgrade. The Xtreme also really missed Larry Foote's presence at ILB last year, and while Antwan Barnes was the team's #2 tackler, the inexperience showed as the X-Men didn't really have a strong outside presence.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Maurice Jones-Drew is waiting to see what the Xtreme do in FA before he decides on his future plans. Good reason, the Xtreme have plenty to do. Having whiffed on Elvis Dumervil last offseason, the Xtreme could land LaMarr Woodley, but management has showed concerns about him after he more or less was a malcontent about everything from him contract to the Bolts' defensive schemes, and it in turn showed in his underwhelming output. Kliff Kingsbury has thrown less INTs in the last two seasons combined than some QBs in the league threw in 2010, but with an unspectacular OL, you have to wonder how long that will last. Striking gold in the quest for a playmaking WR, whether it from the Chad Jackson/Santonio Holmes FA camp, or trading for Vincent Jackson or Mike Williams, will help greatly.
Memphis Maniax
2010: 6-8, 3rd AC South
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: WR
POTENTIAL NEEDS: LB
It would be a huge blow to the Maniax' efforts to return to postseason contention should they lose either of their two best players, WRs Steve Breaston and Brandon Myles, although it looks like that's exactly what will happen. The Maniax have almost conceded that Breaston will leave, as they've shifted their efforts to a new deal for MLB Omar Gaither
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: The Maniax would like to get at least Myles back, and pairing him up with say, Anthony Gonzalez, whose stock will take a dip in the offseason waters because of injury concerns, isn't out of the realm of possibilty. Not only is Gaither a pending FA, but so is valuable special teamer Desmond Bishop. With a dearth of starting under-30 talent at MLB available (other than Gaither, who can play both inside and outside, and David Harris, who's really more suited to a 3-4) the Maniax can really ill-afford to lose Gaither. They could also be interested in upgrading at SLB, in which Gilbert Gardner would fit that bill.
New York Hitmen
2010: 7-7, 3rd NC North
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OL, WR, DL, RB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DB
After coming off, what Romeo Crennel called, the Hitmen's weirdest season ever in his seven years, they'll surely take a back-to-business approach for 2011 after missing the postseason for the first time since 2006. The Hitmen will need to re-evaluate their OL and get some depth on a three-man defensive front which missed it in '10
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Phil Loadholt will move to left tackle, replacing Kareem Marshall, leaving the Hitmen to fill a void at right tackle. Jonathan Scott or Chris Denman would probably the two biggest name choices, but Mike Otto, who filled in at right tackle in place of Marc Colombo during WAS' championship run, is another possibility. Only one rushing touchdown for Ray Rice, which came in the finale, speaks to the team's need for a goal-line back. This could be a spot for a bigger back like Brian Leonard or Isaac Redman. Watching Emmett Johnson and Ashante Woodyard, both deemed the O-word, go on to KC and have strong years, hurt, so don't be surprised to see the Hitmen pursue a 30ish veteran like Terrence Edwards or Brian Williams (both 31).
Orlando Rage
2010: 4-10, 4th AC East
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: OL, WR, DL, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, QB
After going a respectable 4-7 in his first campaign with the Rage since being promoted to head coach, Chuck Cecil will understandably want to start anew, which means the Rage will likely have the most roster turnover of any team in the league. None of Orlando's free agents are worth losing any sleep over, and if there's any team that needs bigtime players, it's Orlando.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: While reacquiring Vincent Jackson (who played for the Rage from 2005-2008) will probably cost the Rage more in terms of draft picks and needed spare parts, they'll move on to the Chad Jackson/Santonio Holmes/Steve Breaston trinity and surely wind up with one, giving Andre Woodson a legit #1 target. It's no secret that the Rage were targeting Gabe Watson since the end of the season (and probably before), tampering charges be damned. With former firsts Drew Stanton and Marshawn Lynch on the trade block, QB and RB will become areas of need from a depth standpoint.
Pittsburgh Maulers
2010: 9-5, T-1st NC North, beat Detroit 27-24(OT) in first round, lost to San Francisco 17-13 in NC championship.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DL, OL, LB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB
Interestingly enough, with Joseph Addai and Chad Jackson set to go out on the market neither RB or WR is a serious need, partly because Jonathan Dwyer ran the ball so well in his rookie year (and then in the playoffs, where he was the team's clear workhorse back) and Pierre Garcon stepped up with Limas Sweed out for the season. The Maulers' needs are basically depth-related, meaning they could eschew the FA market altogether and go to the draft for reinforcements.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: See above: while the Mauler fan might go crazy visualizing former Pittsburghers (Ironmen) DeAngelo Williams or Eric Weddle back in the fold, the fact remains that they don't really need either, although with Kevin Kaesviharn now 34 Weddle would be a nice pickup. Some young, cheap OL depth is the main thing but they'll probably target that in the spring come draft day.
San Antonio Stampede
2010: 7-7, 3rd AC South
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: CB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB, OL
While the Stampede can proudly point to the fact that they swept two playoff teams (Dallas, Kansas City) and also beat the X-Bowl champion Glory as their big first-season-in-the-Alamo highlight, they went 2-7 against everyone else (only two were against playoff teams, both losses) and were watching the postseason despite a 4-0 start. Part of the reason cause Chase Clement was clearly a different passer the second half of the year after it looked like he might become the league's first 5000-yard passer. Part of that was the late-season injury to LT Adam Goldberg, and the whole OL seemed to collapse after that. Now, the Stamps need to figure out a way to re-sign DeAngelo Williams.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: The Stampede will have two prime objectives in the offseason: re-sign Williams and upgrade at CB. Losing Dominique Foxworth late in the year hurt the unit but in truth it needs a redesign anyway. Fred Bennett will be in the Stampede's sights as they move Myron Lewis over to FS, replacing the departing Eric Weddle.
San Francisco Demons
2010: 10-4, 1st NC West, beat Pittsburgh 17-13 in NC championship, lost to Washington 31-17 in X-Bowl X.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: WR
POTENTIAL NEEDS: DE, OLB
Nate Davis took tremendous strides as the Demons won their last seven regular-season games to clinch their second West division title in franchise history, then in somewhat surprising fashion shut down the Maulers in the NC championship game before falling to the Glory in X-Bowl X. Where do the X-Bowl runners-up go from here?
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: Much talk of Sinorice Moss or Steve Breaston replacing Anthony Gonzalez as the top wideout, as Gonzalez has had all sorts of injury problems the last two years.
On defense, look for the Demons to make a run at Tommy Kelly and change things up, going from a smallish unit (at least at DE) to one more sizable. Of course, they'll look north if both of Seattle's two DTs make it to the market. The Demons have also shown interest in Omar Gaither, who would move back outside in SF's LB unit playing next to Kirk Morrison.
Seattle Reign
2010: 7-7, 3rd NC West
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DT, DB, OLB, RB
POTENTIAL NEEDS: OL, TE
One down, one to go. Seattle locked up Thomas Howard, now they need to re-sign Rodrique Wright--and Brandon Mebane while they're at it. Next is basically anywhere in their secondary, as both starting corners are FAs and Keith Lewis, who made a pair of starts last year, also is a FA. Then OLB, where Gilbert Gardner wrestled the starting SLB job away from Keith Ellison and had a fine year. But considering the uneven performance from Seattle's D as a whole, could you blame Jon Gruden if he isn't keen on bringing the D back in tact?
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: The above said, the front seven is solid, though maybe changes will be made to allow backup DT Red Bryant to compete for a job at DE, where he took some snaps in 2010. But the secondary is ripe for upgrades, could the Reign be ready to make a big splash for Dashon Goldson, who played at UW? Maybe Marcus McCauley, a physical corner they don't have?
Washington Glory
2010: 10-4, 1st AC East, beat Kansas City 33-20 in AC championship, beat San Francisco 31-17 in X-Bowl X.
IMMEDIATE NEEDS: DL
POTENTIAL NEEDS: RB
The Glory took care of their most pressing need just two days after the X-Bowl by re-signing Sam Keller, who may have been passed over for the acclaim that went to Matt Kegel, Chase Clement, and Anthony Calvillo, but walked away with the prize, defeating Calvillo twice along the way. Now as the Glory make the switch to 3-4 all they really need to do is hold on to their FAs, namely FS Dashon Goldson, who enjoyed a breakout year.
POSSIBLE ADDITIONS: A problem for the Glory at midseason was the running game, in that Marion Barber seemed the be the only one that could run. But in the postseason Brandon Jackson and LeGarrette Blount both picked it up. The Glory would like to retain Jackson, who can be a powerful RB at times, but have plenty of potential FAs to choose from as a potential replacement. Derek Pegues, who will be a third-year player in 2011 and has seen plenty of action his first two seasons, would move into the starting role (he played three games at the end of the year with Goldson out with a neck injury) should Goldson leave.