Contents:

Pg:4 ‘B.B Gun’ goes No1: Rams Take Bridges

Pg:8 2014 Draft - Round 1 Recap

Pg:10 Schools Out: Team by Team Draft Grades

Pg:38 Hank Johnstone Meets the Rookies

Pg:42 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Pre-season Bulletin

Pg:47 Tennessee Titans Draft Bulletin

Pg:50 Cincinnati Bengals Draft Day Trade Bulletin

Pg:57 Hit, Miss or Maybe: Rd 1 QB Analysis

Pg:68 Mock Wars: Mock Drafts Reviewed

Pg:77 Rookie of the Year Betting

Pg:82 Secret Santa: Team by Team Season Previews

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Author Credits:Dthomso8 Darren UK Rookie

PaulB Markq Ukpatfan

Alrith

Special recognition to Dthomson8 for organising Secret Santa,and a thank you to all who contributed to that feature.

Front cover : Bernie Bridges - No1 pick

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‘B.B Gun’ goes No1!

Rams take DE with first pick of draft.

“With the first pick in round 1 of the 2014 RDFL Draft, the St Louis Rams select…………Rutgers DE Bernie Bridges.”

No real surprise then as the announcement was made by the League Commissioner at Madison Square Gardens on draft day. However, in a world exclusive, RedZone has been granted unprecedented access with the St Louis GM Alrith and in the resultant interview we can see for ourselves just how certain that selection was going to be.

Interview with St. Louis Rams GM Alrith:Q- After seeing the draft class was Bridges always number 1 or were there other players in the frame? A- After seeing the draft class we were always going to go with Bernie if we were sticking around at 1.1. Our pass rush was very poor last season, in a very disappointing year for all with an interest in this franchise, and we knew that

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the addition of Bernie would go a long way to improve that element of our game.

Q-Bridges looks to be an excellent player, what specifics did you like about him? A- What is there not to like about this guy. He has a good football brain, has the engine to play all day, hits like a truck and has the technique to get in the opposition QB's face all day long. Some have said that he is a little small at this position in the pros but I believe what matters is not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog.

Q- Did you seriously consider trading down from 1.1 and was there much interest from other teams? A- We always keep our options open so we put 1.1 out there to see if there was any interest. We had many needs to fill this off season and figured if someone came in with the right offer to allow us to fill multiple shortfalls we would be foolish not to consider it. We had some interest from a team looking for a franchise quarterback but when it became apparent that there was no player of that calibre in this years class, that interest dried up. In retrospect I'm glad we didn't have to make that choice as I'm truly excited to see what this young man can do for this team.

Q- How excited is Leon Jefferson at the prospect of lining up next to Bridges? A- Leon is thrilled that we've added this kind of talent to line up next to him. These last two seasons since I've been here, with no disrespect to the other guys, the D-line has all been about Leon. With Bernie in the mix I think we will see even better play from Leon as it won't all be on him to make things happen up front. With the addition of veteran Dan Cody to play LDE and add some experience to the line I think it's a breakout season for

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Leon and the year that we see him live up to his billing as the most talented player in the league!

Short interview with the man himself, Bernie ‘B.B Gun’ Bridges

Q- Hi Bernie, so how does it feel to be the number 1 overall pick and to be a St. Louis Ram? A- Man it feels great. To be honest the whole number 1 pick thing is no great shakes for me, it's always been about playing the best football I can, playing hard and making whatever team I'm on better. To go to St. Louis is a great opportunity for me to showcase my talent. We're a team that's struggled defensively over recent seasons and play in a division loaded with talent. I personally can't wait to get into the regular season and show the likes of Vance and Brady what I'm all about. Some people say I'm too small for the pros but let's see if those guys agree when they're picking themselves up off the deck!

Q- What has been the reaction from your team mates to your arrival? A- Honestly, they have been great. Leon (Jefferson) has welcomed me with open arms and I can't wait to line up next to him. We are going to terrorise this league! Graham Borders is the leader of this defence and he has sat me down and told me some things: how to carry myself, the team ethic, stuff like that. This defence is a unit on the up and with the addition of some savvy veterans and some young blood I'm really excited about what this unit can achieve as a whole.

Q- Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?

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A- I want to be one of the greats, I want to be up there with all the big names. It all starts right here in St. Louis, all starts right now. It's going to be a blast and you're all invited to come along for the ride.Get those season tickets bought, buy those "73" jerseys and watch this space!

Q- Any final words A- Watch out quarterbacks of the RDFL, the ‘B.B Gun’ is going to shoot you down!

RedZone extends a huge thank you to both Alrith and Number 73 for making themselves available for interview.

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Round 1 Recap:

Here’s a reminder of the first round selections:

Pick Team Name Pos School

1 - 1 STL Bernie Bridges DE Rutgers

1 - 2 CAR Jorge Wilkerson WR Virginia

1 - 3 KCY Britt Pride RB Rutgers

1 - 4 ARI Reuben Preston CB Texas - El Paso

1 - 5 PHI Kelvin Shelton S Hawaii

1 - 6 NED Earl O'Neill WR UCLA

1 - 7 LAS Danny Faber RB Louisiana/Monroe

1 - 8 DEN Peter Bernard CB Mars Hill

1 - 9 NJY Grady Rhodes ILB North Carolina

1 - 10 CIN Tony Robertson DE Vanderbilt

1 - 11 DEN Oscar Baker DT Florida State

1 - 12 NOS Freddie Patton DE Hawaii

1 - 13 SEA Billy Joe Gaunt WR Florida State

1 - 14 TEN Johnie Grassley T Arizona State

1 - 15 NYK Patrick Willis DT Iowa

1 - 16 NOS Lionel Gerdes OLB New Mexico State

1 - 17 KCY Bryce Glenn DT UCLA

1 - 18 SDO Amos Chung WR Penn State

1 - 19 PIT Deon Snyder OLB Penn State

1 - 20 JAX Dave Trigg DE Troy State

1 - 21 DAL Mitchell Duggan OLB Louisiana State

1 - 22 NJY Richard Sutter QB Washington State

1 - 23 SFO Kurt Robson DE Nebraska

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1 - 24 LAS Charlie Custer G UCLA

1 - 25 TEN Ron Hickman WR Nebraska

1 - 26 DAL Oscar Gardner T Furman

1 - 27 BUF Junior Stone T Oklahoma State

1 - 28 CHI Leland Beggiani QB Alabama

1 - 29 CHI Glenn Vann G Southern California

1 - 30 SFO Artie DeBoer T Mississippi

1 - 31 IND Chester Cogswell TE Virginia

1 - 32 CHI Eric Moyad S Maryland

Here is a run down by position:A perfectly balanced break down between offense and defense.

QB - 2RB - 2FB - 0TE - 1WR - 5C - 0G - 2T – 4

Total Offense - 16

DE - 5DT - 3

OLB - 3ILB - 1

S - 2CB – 2

Total Defense – 16

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School’s Out!!

2014 Team Draft Grades

The 2014 draft is in the books and here we take a very subjective look at how each team fared with their picks in the first two rounds.

We all know it’s very early to be judging a draft but here goes, what the heck!

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AC North:

Pittsburgh SteelersThe Steelers were picking in the second half of the draft, let’s check out their selections.

At 1.19, Pittsburgh must have been pleasantly surprised to see Penn State’s OLB Deon Snyder fall to them.Snyder is big, smart and has a great engine. He is nicely developed and looks like a very good all rounder who should be an immediate starter and will make an impact.A great pick up at a relatively low slot.

In the 2nd round, the Steelers turned to offense and snaffled WR Kennedy Grant from Washington with the 2.22 pick.Grant has excellent size and decent speed and appears to know the game. However, his skill sets seem disappointing and endurance looks a factor.He is a gamble and may not develop into much more than a 4th string receiver. At the bottom of the 2nd, Grant was a reasonable throw of the dice but at this early stage he looks to be a dud.

Although the fans aren’t impressed with Grant, the Steelers got excellent value at 1.19 by grabbing Snyder who should become one of the better OLB’s in the league.Overall grade: B

Cincinnati BengalsAt 1.10 the Bengals drafted Vanderbilt DE Tony Robertson.In trading DE Mack Garner and their 2015 1st rounder, the Bengals paid a high price to grab Robertson but he does look like a stud DE and coming out of Training Camp he looks the best pure pass rusher in the class.

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He is big enough to stop the run and has excellent play diagnosis, but really excels as a pass rusher with elite technique and strength.Robertson didn’t make the combines and hence he fell some but he still represents very good value at 1.10 and is in fact the top rated rookie on the ‘Green Page’.Overall grade: A-(I know, not fair grading my own work!)

Cleveland BrownsThe Browns had no picks in the first two rounds so are ungraded.

Baltimore RavensThe Ravens had no picks in the first two rounds so are ungraded.

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AC East:

New England PatriotsNew England were drafting nice and early and at 1.6 took UCLA’s star receiver Earl O’Neill.O’Neill is very raw and slightly undersized but he has good skills and did well at the combine.He looks likely to develop into a very nice no1 receiver. He may not be an elite guy in the mould of a Dexter Walters but he should still prove to be productive.Some might say he was more 1.12 value and went a little early but he will be an effective starter.

Into the 2nd round and Guard Dominic Pritt was taken out of Florida.Pritt is a solid run blocker and should become a decent starter either this year or next.

The Patriots grabbed a nice couple of guys. However, both may have been taken a smudge too high so their grade drops slightly.Overall grade: B

Buffalo BillsThe Bills had a very good season and picked at the tail end.With their 1.27 slot, they selected Oklahoma State OT Junior Stone.Stone is a big player who skipped the combines. He projected as an elite pass blocking type tackle and a solid run blocker.However, coming out of Training Camp, something went very wrong as Stone’s ratings look very poor indeed.He still looks a servicable pass blocker but he looks nothing like a good return on a 1st round pick.

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At the end of the 2nd round, at 2.26, Buffalo took OLB Stan Stephenson out of West Chester college.Stephenson is another good all round linebacker who looks adept as a run stopper.Big and well developed, he could read the game better but he looks likely to start at an early stage in his career.Good value at the end of the 2nd and a better player than Stone.

The Bills were stung with Stone but Stephenson looks a very good pick in the 2nd.Overall grade C

Miami DolphinsThe Dolphins had one pick in the second round and went for QB Chuck Blair from Missouri State at 2.30.Blair just about has the size to play QB and is a smart kid. He impresses scouts with his intangibles (although he needs to recognise coverage quicker) and has a chance to become starter quality with some intense nurturing.You can’t argue with rolling the dice on a QB at this point in the draft and early indications are Blair should at least develop into a back up.A gamble, but one worth taking. Could go either way.Overall grade: B-

New Jersey JetsThe Jets had a clutch of first day picks and made a splash.At 1.9 New Jersey drafted ILB Grady Rhodes from North Carolina.Rhodes looks the real deal and was one of the best prospects in the draft class.With good or excellent skills across the board he will be an impact defender.Slightly short, his best position is not yet clear and he looks able to play anywhere in the second line of the D.

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A nice player and well worthy of the 1.9 slot.

With their second 1st round draft pick, the Jets grabbed the top QB prospect in Washington State’s Richard Sutter.Sutter divided scouts. His combines were good and he was graded high by the bureau but his skill sets look disappointing and he is short for the position.He is an intelligent player with a great solecismic result but how that transfers to the playing field remains to be seen.No doubt about it, Sutter was a big gamble and early indications are he will come up short.His skill bars just do not add up and his ratings are low.Probably worth a shot at this level and I was not surprised to see him drop to this area of the round but it looks like he will be a bust.

Into the 2nd and at 2.1 New Jersey went for Mississippi SS Dave Wicker.Wicker should be a decent starting quality safety. He can cover zone or man adequately and is a real run stuffer.He can also return punts and is well developed.With a 2nd round slot he represents a good choice and should have an impact.He will remain at SS and may win the PR job.

Moving on, at 2.10 the franchise drafted CB Toby Frederick.The left corner from Temple is a good quality cover guy although he didn’t make too many picks in college. He can struggles against the run and needs to learn how to hit hard.Very short for a corner, Frederick should become a solid DB and a challenge for a starting job.Another reasonable 2nd round take.

With their final 2nd round pick, the Jets took OT Christian Shapiro from Boston college.

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Shapiro is big, a very good technical run and pass blocker but he dropped due to poor blocking strength.Very raw, he may develop into a good lineman given time but his lack of strength will haunt him.If he reaches his potential he will start despite the strength issues.

The Jets certainly made a couple of decent picks and even their riskier selections made a lot of sense.If the Sutter gamble had paid off then this draft class would have been a great one but unfortunately for the Jets Sutter looks like he won’t suit!However, Rhodes on his own gives the franchise a great return and throw in Wicker and Frederick and this year’s draft gave New Jersey a good injection of talent.Overall grade: B+

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AC South:

Tennessee TitansTennessee had multiple first day picks picking at 1.14 / 1.25 and 2.9 / 2.32.With their first selection, the Titans drafted OT Johnie Grassley from Arizona State.Grassley is a better run blocker than pass blocker although he is capable in protecting the passer.He will need a year or two to develop up to starter level but he projects to be a quality player, perhaps more suited to RT but don’t rule him out at LT.A very good looking pick.

At 1.25, WR Ron Hickman joined the team from Nebraska.Hickman is another very raw receiver in a draft that seemed stock full of raw wideouts.He will need an awful lot of development before he reaches his full potential.That being said, he is a technically proficient player who has great hands and runs accurate routes.He is able to pick up yards after the catch and has a reasonable engine on him.If Tennessee are patient with him, Hickman should be productive. He won’t be explosive but will catch ball out of the slot nicely. Should end up as a no2 or no3 wideout.

The 2.9 pick saw Tennessee take CB Alonzo Farley out of the small school program at McNeese State.Farley looks a good prospect being well developed and good in any coverage.On the down side, he is very weak in run defense, doesn’t haul in the picks and also has endurance issues.

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However, for a 2nd round pick he represents good value with his cover skills alone. Expect him to develop into a great nickel back.

Their last pick saw the Titans select OG Pat Stryzinski from the Army.The second generation pole came into the game late and is hugely raw and will need a lot of coaching.He is smart and has nice potential but it remains to be seen if he continues to develop.He possesses great run blocking skills and can become a starter if he learns quick.A gamble but probably worth the risk at the end of the 2nd.

Tennessee went for a couple of very raw players and this draft class will need time to mature.If these guys get the right coaching and the fans are patient with them then the class may pay dividends.Much will depend on Hickman but at this point the Titans drafted potential rather than immediate impact and that reflects their grade.Overall grade: B

Indianapolis ColtsThe Real Bowl runners-up picked late on with their highest pick coming at 1.31.At that spot the Colts took Virginia TE Chester Cogswell.Cogswell was the best TE prospect in the draft and is a good pick at this level.He is a huge guy with good receiving skills who can also block. He will be an immediate starter and should contribute nicely.Can’t argue with this one.

Into the 2nd and Indy stayed with receivers taking WR Billy Craighead at 2.11.

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There’s no doubt the burner from Wake Forest can run. He is already installed as the league’s fastest player and speed can be dangerous.On the down side though, Craighead is short and can be technically sloppy. His routes and handling are poor, he isn’t really football savvy and is a raw talent.With his speed he will hurt teams occasionally and will haul in the odd long ball for a big play but that may be all.Doesn’t project to be a top receiver and is probably more of a 4th

string big play guy for a spread offense.Scouts and some pundits loved his wheels but is he a reach at 2.11?

At the end of the round, the Colts went for Weber State DE Peter Thibodeaux.The 2.31 pick doesn’t look a good player and although he may win a roster spot as a rotational back up, he probably won’t contribute a great deal.Tough place to pick from though.

The Colts got a starting TE and a nasty little ‘big play’ weapon to complement their established running game but Thibodeaux is poor and was Craighead a good return at that spot?It’s difficult to pick impact at the tail end of the draft but even so the grade slumps some.Overall grade: C+

Houston TexansThe Texans had no picks in the first two rounds and so are ungraded.

Jacksonville JaguarsThe Jaguars selected DE Dave Trigg from Troy State at 1.20.Trigg has well rounded skills and is a football smart player.

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He may need a season to develop into a true starter but he has the potential to contribute a lot to the team without becoming an elite pass rusher.

Jacksonville stayed with DE in the 2nd round as they pulled in Louisiana Tech end Vinny Randle at 2.19.Randle is another very smart player who can read the game well.Not the strongest and with suspect endurance, he does have good pass rushing skills.He can also play the run and should perform well if he can bide his time and save energy for the right plays.Randle will not put up massive numbers but can certainly help the D.

In one draft the Jags restocked at DE. They maybe didn’t go for the glamorous guys but drafted solid players.Overall grade: B-

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AC West:

Denver BroncosDenver had a new GM at the helm with some high end picks.At 1.8 the Broncos drafted CB Peter Bernard from Mars Hill.Bernard was a risky proposition as he had no combine workout and comes from a small college.He did exhibit great skills in his college career and was an interception magnet with excellent size.Scouts rated his technical skills highly and that is what Denver drafted him for.First look is they have a great player who was worth the 1.8 pick, a gutsy call that looks to have paid off handsomely.

With their second round 1 pick, Denver stayed with defense and grabbed Florida State NT Oscar Baker.Baker is a little small for a true NT and may be better suited to a 4-3 front.He is very well developed and although his skill bars aren’t exceptional I feel he was actually a safer pick than Bernard.Baker will develop nicely and will impact as a starter. He may not make pro-bowl levels but he won’t let the team down either.A nice pick.

Into the next round and at 2.13 the Broncos stuck with defense again taking OLB Lamont Grier out of Texas A&M.Grier has the size and smarts to play in the pros.He looks like a good cover guy with slightly below par run stopping and endurance.He should become a serviceable starter though and will further strengthen the Bronco’s D.

At 2.15, Denver grabbed their first offensive player in OT Brenden Marshall from Central Oklahoma.Marhsall is big and strong with good blocking skills.

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He will be a contributor and represents a nice pick up here.May even be just good enough to slide across to LT and don’t be surprised to see him shift.

The Broncos drafted well and really re-stocked their D.They look likely to have grabbed four starters and that’s obviously a good return. Throw in a top CB and their grade jumps.Overall grade: A+

Kansas City ChiefsAnother team with four first day picks, Kansas made headlines with the 1.3 pick taking top offensive star RB Britt Pride from Rutgers.Pride had high volatility but that didn’t scare off the Chiefs GM who knew a star when he saw one.Pride already looks a top player and will start from day one.He has speed, sees his lanes and can run the dirty inside yards too. He will catch out of the backfield, can play special teams if needed and in fact is a pretty complete player.A slight question over his endurance but in a balanced offense Pride will be a star.Great pick and probably feels all the better for the pick being acquired through a trade!

At 1.17 the Chiefs looked at the other side of the ball to take DE Bryce Glenn from UCLA.Glenn looks like becoming a strong contributor. He is well sized, can defend the run and has good strength.He may take a season or two to develop to starting level and won’t win player of the year honors but he should be a performer.Nice selection.

2.3 saw the Chiefs notch CB Jermain Ferguson out of Georgia Tech.

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Well sized, with a good engine, Ferguson can cover receivers and should become a decent player.He could read the game better and doesn’t male picks but expect some production from him. Perhaps best suited as a nickel back?Will also challenge for the PR duties.

Moving onto 2.16 and here Kansas drafted OG Winston Ena. Another prospect out of UCLA, Ena is big, smart and has good looking skills.He should be a good starter by his second year and he is a very nice selection here. He will be blocking for Pride for years to come.

The Chiefs hit gold with Pride and their other top 64 picks look solid too.In all a very nice draft.Overall grade: A+

Oakland RaidersAt 1.7 Oakland took the 2nd RB in the draft in Danny Faber from Louisiana-Monroe.This move for a RB surprised draftniks but should turn out just fine.Faber has speed and likes to run through the middle. He usually spots his lanes and can return punts.On the flip side, he isn’t a great receiver and has a poor engine.He will make plays and should be a 1000yd back but was he taken a little high and could the Raiders have grabbed their man at say 1.12 ish?

The running game got a further boost at 1.24 as the Raiders selected OG Charlie ‘General’ Custer.Another UCLA standout, Custer is a great line prospect.He can block with the best of them, can play all day and has the necessary size.

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If he avoids a volatility hit and can rely on his technical ability rather than average strength then there is no reason why Custer can’t be an All-Pro.Should start straight away and Faber will benefit as a result.Sat out Training Camp as he is still negotiating a contract.

In one swoop the Raiders running game got a whole lot better.Overall grade: B+

San Diego ChargersThe Bolts had just the one pick first day and spent the 1.18 on WR Amos Chung.Chung, from Penn State, was maybe a bit of a surprise to some pundits being taken in the middle of the first.Perhaps his raw development put off some GM’s but he really does look like a very good receiver in the making.He can be sloppy in handling and route running but he is an explosive receiver who can play as the no1.Garrison will be grinning from ear to ear with this pick. In a pass orientated attack Chung should develop nicely and will put up some big numbers.

With one pick the Chargers needed to choose wisely and it’s hard to argue with their selection. Keeps their passing attack strong.Overall grade: B+

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NC North:

Chicago BearsThe Bears were another team with a new GM and a handful of picks.After trading down, Chicago picked QB Leland Beggiani at 1.28 from Alabama.In a shallow QB class, Beggiani was always going to be a risk but one that had a chance at a going in the 1st round.The kid is amazingly raw and initial thoughts are he may not develop very well.He can make all the throws and has good intangibles but can he carry this through into the pros?His team will no doubt be patient with him and they’ll need to be.A big risk drafting him but at 1.28, a reasonable risk.After Training Camp, he looks to have pretty good potential but potential doesn’t win games. Has a lot to prove and opinion is the pressure on the kid may result in a bust.

1.29 saw Chicago boost their O-line by taking OG Glenn Vann from Southern California.The South-Cal star is well named being built like a van and has great technical skills. Strength could be a slightly higher but he compensates for this with skill and he will be a good O-lineman.Has been shifted across to OT by his GM and will likely start from day 1. It looks like he found the switch tricky but he represents a decent building block for the trenches.

With the last pick of the 1st round, the Bears turned to Maryland SS Eric Moyad.Short for a SS, nevertheless Moyad looks capable with well rounded skills, great intelligence and is nicely developed, Moyad should make an impact and can become starter quality.

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Into the 2nd and WR George Kariger became a Bear at 2.21.The Florida star is well sized, has good receiving skills and can play.His routes need work and endurance might be a problem but Kariger should be able to put up some decent production.He is actually the most exciting player in the Bears class and looks explosive. Is also a great KO return guy.At this point in the draft a very good selection.

It’s always interesting to watch a new owner drafting. The Bears GM obviously prefers trading down the draft rather than being blinded by the star prospects at the top end.An interesting approach and one that could pay dividends in the depth chart.Beggiani looks like a real risky pick but the other three players look to have value.Overall grade: Beggiani brings the grade down to C+

Green Bay PackersThe Packers did not have a pick in the first two rounds and are ungraded.

Detroit LionsThe Lions made a big trade for Mike Newman and as a result only had a couple of 2nd round picks.At 2.8 they drafted DE Burt Vilma from West Virginia.Vilma is massive and very raw. He projects to having great run defense and pass rush technique to go alongside a sharp football brain.His strength is average but with expert coaching he should be able to develop into a good player capable of holding down a starting job.Good value here.

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With their second 2nd, the Lions took DT Wally Lum out of Colorado.Lum has the size to play NT and is a great run stopper, trouble is he looks like a one trick pony.If you just want your NT to eat space and stuff the run then Lum will be your guy.However, he won’t give you much pass rush, isn’t smart and has no endurance.At the end of the 2nd he isn’t bad value for a specialist defender.

Vilma is raw but could come good. Lum is too one dimensional but will play a role.Not a bad draft but a lot depends on Vilma.Overall grade: C+

Minnesota VikingsThe Vikings made like Bill Belichick and grabbed four picks in the 2nd round.With their first at 2.6 Minnesota selected North Carolina State RB Shane Grewal.Grewal is big with a good motor and is slippery as an eel. He is particularly good on 3rd down, running or receiving.His speed could be better and he doesn’t particularly like fighting for the inside yardage.He is well developed and projects to be an okay starting level RB for the Vikes.

At 2.12, Minnesota drafted FS Ernest Walton from Purdue.Walton displays all the necessary coverage skills except man to man. He can play against the run and is a real ball hawk.There is a big question mark over his endurance but this guy looks like he might really contribute.His development is good and he should become a decent starter for his new team.

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Stanford OC Mo Cochrane was drafted at 2.23 and is another good looking player.Although under developed, Cochrane has an excellent skill set and should become a nice addition to the O-line.Good value here.

Finally, Minnesota selected Kansas State CB Keith Kersey with the 2.25 pick.Kersey is short of stature and struggles to read the play but he has a decent skill set.He will contribute for the Vikings but may be a limited to being a back-up/nickel with PR ability.

Minnesota had some nice picks. All should improve the roster and the Vikings found some good value in the 2nd round.Overall grade: B

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NC West:

Arizona CardinalsOnce more the Cardinals had some early picks.With the 4th pick overall Arizona took a CB out of Texas-El Paso – Rueben Preston.Preston put in an excellent combine and came into the draft with a good bureau rating.His skill bars are towards middling and he doesn’t pick off many passes but he should continue to develop into a good player.He seems to be a bit of an enigma and it’s not yet clear whether his combines or bars are a real reflection on his talent.At the moment he looks a slight reach at 1.4.

With the 2.4 pick, the Cards drafted DT Patrick Wolsic from Rice college.Wolsic is big and can play the run or pressure the QB although he is not the strongest.Like Preston he may develop into a nice, reliable player able to contribute well.

Although initial impressions can be misleading and their picks will contribute, with such high picks I’m sure fans would have been hoping for slightly better talent in this years draft.Overall grade: B

San Francisco 49ers.The 49ers looked to restock with three first day picks.First up they took Nebraska DE Kurt Robson at 1.23.Robson is well sized and a specialist run stuffer. He is also an adequate pass rusher but he suffers from a lack of endurance.Robson will be a good lineman and might even be suited moving to the inside where he can concentrate on the run more.Pretty good value at this point.

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With the 1.30 spot, the 49ers went for OT Artie DeBoer from Mississippi.DeBoer is big and strong and can play all day. He looks like a very good pass blocker but he has yet to show pro-level run blocking skills.DeBoer may develop well over time and if you can see past his run blocking limitations he will be a good guardian on the blindside of his QB.

Moving into the 2nd round and San Francisco took ILB Heath Vandeginste of California college with the 2.24 pick.Smart with well rounded if average skills, Vandeginste can also provide some pass rush.He struggles against the run for someone of his big size.The guy is well developed and despite lowish intial ratings, he should contribute but maybe not as a true starter.

The 49ers were drafting late and looked to draft guys who will develop steadily.If these three mature well the team will be happy but they are perhaps more specialist type players than all round starters.Overall grade: C

St Louis RamsThe Rams picked wisely and drafted the top prospect, DE Bernie Bridges from Rutgers.The guy looked like a beast and although his first ever Training Camp might have been somewhat of a disappointment, he still looks a very good player.He is an all round talent with good size for an end and elite run defense. He will start from the get go and should begin to deliver early.Big things were expected of the top prospect and although he has found the initial step up into the pros harder than expected, he may still develop into the elite player he looked pre-draft.

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NC West QB’s groaned audibly when the B.B Gun was drafted and he’ll be raring to prove his worth as the no1 overall.

Just the one top 64 pick and you can’t fault the Rams in their selection, but after his disappointing TC showing, their grade dips.Overall grade: B+

Seattle SeahawksThe reigning champions had a nice mid round pick at 1.13.Vance will be pleased as they drafted WR Billy Joe Gaunt out of Florida State.Gaunt is yet another raw wideout who will take some time to mature.However, his skills look excellent and he has that great combination of speed and strength with a good motor.A very nice pick in the middle of the round.

Another great weapon for the offense.Overall grade: A

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NC South:

New Orleans SaintsThe Saints had a nice handful of draft picks.Their first at 1.12 was used on DE Freddie Patton from Hawaii.Patton is another end that has great run defense skills but with adequate pass rush ability and again he may move inside.He looks set to develop nicely and will be an important starter for the team wherever he plays on the defensive front.One of the top 10 prospects going into the draft.

At 1.16 New Orleans went for SLB Lionel Gerdes from New Mexico State.Gerdes is a top linebacker who can do it all. Well built and with smarts, Gerdes can cover, rush and defend the run on an engine that keeps turning over.He may need a season or two to truly establish himself but he should become one of the better SLB’s in the league.A very nice pick up in the middle of the round.

With the 2.18 pick, the Saints went to offense and selected Virginia Tech RB Eric Burns.This guy is an intelligent runner who doesn’t tire. He is also a dangerous backfield receiver.On the downside he isn’t great at turning the corner and runs through tackles rather than avoiding them and his rushing style will need some good coaching.He should become a nice runner for the Saints and a solid pro.Good value in the 2nd.

I like the Saints draft.With some middling picks they grabbed some decent guys and Gerdes alone gives them a good grade.Overall grade: A-

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Tampa Bay BuccaneersTamps had just the single 2nd round pick at 2.17.With that slot they took OLB Gary McNeil from Michigan.McNeil is great against the run and has good size but is lacking in many other areas.He doesn’t diagnose plays well and also suffers from very low stamina.McNeil is well developed but does not look to be a hugely talented player.

It’s hard to make an impact with a sole 2nd rounder and unfortunately for the Buccs I don’t see McNeil bringing much to the roster other than his run stopping.Overall grade: C-

Atlanta FalconsWith no picks in the first two rounds the Falcons are ungraded.

Carolina PanthersThe Panthers enjoyed picking second and at 1.2 they grabbed the top receiver in a deep receiving draft by selecting Jorge Wilkinson out of Virginia.Wilkinson is quick, can do it all and is an explosive player.Already RDFL ready, Wilkinson will start from day 1 and new QB Clarence Shields must be eagerly anticipating hooking up with his new toy.Will also take some punts back for six.A great pick which filled a need to boot.

At 2.2 Carolina stayed with offense and brought in FB Daryl Burks from Sacred Hearts.Burks didn’t work out at the combine but was still the top rated FB in the class.

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After a season or two of development he will provide everything the team needs from their FB and figures to become a useful receiver out of the backfield.

The Panthers grabbed two class players in the early rounds of this draft. Yes they were picking second and yes one is a FB but they didn’t put a foot wrong.Overall grade: A+

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NC East:

New York GiantsThe new GM in New York managed to keep Hank Johnstone out of the draft room and Giants fans everywhere must have been mightily relieved.With their first pick at 1.15 the Giants took NT Patrick Willis from Iowa.Willis is big, smart and had the scouts drooling as a top 10 prospect who excels at reading the game.He can play every down being able to stop the run and bring some pressure but he does need to build his endurance.Willis will be a very good defender for New York and was a solid first ever pick for the GM.

At 2.14 New York drafted another defender in Arizona State DE Bernie Lake.Big and intelligent with a long running motor, Lake will be a nice addition to the defense.He is a good run stopper and another guy that reads the play early. His rushing isn’t top level but at the middle of the 2nd Lake was a good pick.

Two D-linemen and two good picks for the Giants.Overall grade: B+

Washington RedskinsThe Skins only had a tail ender in the 2nd and at 2.29 selected Virginia RB Winston Shepherd.Shepherd has the size and speed to play the game but is poor in other areas.He isn’t smart and misses his holes too often. He has no endurance and couldn’t catch a cold.He may become a half decent change of pace back up but I don’t see him starting too often. He can grab some yardage with his speed and elusiveness but is one dimensional.

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I know this was a tough spot to draft from but Shepherd looks a below average player.Overall grade: C-

Dallas CowboysThe Cowboys picked up OLB Mitchell Duggan from Louisiana State at 1.21.Duggan looks a good selection at this spot. Big, smart and aggressive he can do everything that is asked of a modern linebacker.His pass rush technique could be polished but that is splitting hairs as he is a great bull rusher.There were a clutch of very nice LB’s in this draft and Duggan deserved to go in the 1st round.

With the 1.26 pick Dallas took Furnam OT Oscar Gardner.This man mountain is a good all round tackle and should develop steadily into a good starter.Maybe he won’t be an elite player but he still represents nice value here.

At 2.20 the Cowboys went for CB Lamont Carvin from Austin Peay.Carvin looks another good pickup, having nice cover skills, run stopping ability and good football smarts.Expect to see him starting in a year or so.

A nice draft all round by the Cowboys.Duggan is the highlight but both Gardner and Carvin should start.Overall grade: A

Philadelphia EaglesPhilly picked early and at 1.5 grabbed the top safety, FS Kevin Shelton from Hawaii.

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Shelton looks the complete safety. He has great cover skills, makes picks, a good engine and can bust the run. With excellent size he should move across to SS and will be a star player. He might even switch to corner he is that good.Usually safeties aren’t taken high but Shelton was well worth the pick and Philly hit a home run here.

At 2.7 the Eagles drafted WR Dan Jenkins from Vanderbilt.Jenkins was raw coming out of college and he just doesn’t look like a pro player. He is so poor he will likely be cut and unfotuantely he has proved to be a wasted pick high in the 2nd.

Philly have to be pleased with Shelton who keeps their grade high but Jenkins is a huge disappointment and he does effect their score.Overall grade: B+

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Hank Johnstone’s ‘Welcome to the League Rookie’!

Hi there fans, Hank Johnstone here - your favourite news hound.Interesting assignment for this edition of RedZone: I’m interviewing two first round draft picks, both very different people, with very different outlooks on life.

First up is WR Jorge Wilkerson taken 2nd overall by the Carolina Panthers.I agree to meet Jorge at his home, which as I pull up looks magnificent. The door is massive and after I ring the bell there’s a long wait until the door is opened.Standing before me is a beautiful blonde babe, with what looks like little more than a hand towel covering her naked body."Hi,Im Cherry, you must be Hank" she purrs."Yup thats me " I reply as I follow her through to the pool.God its hot out here and there in the shade is Jorge Wilkerson, complete with shades and bling and cell phone glued to his ear.

After the introductions and cold beer, its time for Q & A`s:"So then Jorge, what does it feel like to be drafted by Carolina?""I’m disapointed in St Louis for not picking me where I should have been taken, number 1 baby!

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They`ve missed the chance to select the greatest wide receiver ever to play the game and they will ALWAYS pay big time when I play them!”

"So how was training camp then?" I ask."It was cool, I told Shields how and where to throw me the ball.Me and the head coach came understand each other - that I AM the team and I`M their best shot at making the post season.I expect the ball on every play, if not how are we gonna win baby?"

I sense that Jorge isn`t exactly a team player and I`m just wondering how he will fit in at Carolina when Cherry asks if JW could "Oil her up?" She`s slipped off the towel and is lying on the lounger in just a tiny leopard print thong."Sure babes." JW says as he produces the sun lotion.It is hot out here but my temperature goes through the roof as he applies the lotion covering every inch of naked skin.I later learn Cherry is a Playmate of the Month (August of course) and Lord Almighty I can’t take my eyes off why!

Back to the questions:"What are your goals this season?""Dude, it’s gotta be Rookie of the Year, League MVP and Pro Bowl starter."“How do you see your career playing out?""I want to sign the biggest ever pro-football contract with the Oakland Raiders.I’m too good for this small town market team. Man, the greatest players need to be in Hollywood, that’s where I`m headed. I’m gonna grab me an acting career after I’ve won every individual honor in football."

We finish up and JW promises to contact me when he`s next in New York.

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I run a finger around my shirt collar as I steal a last lingering glance at Cherry who is smoldering in the sunshine.Then I’m outside. Looks like its going be interesting times in Carolina, I think to myself.Off to the airport as I head back to the Big Apple to see my next interviewee.

Well here I made it back to the Big Apple and now I’m standing outside ‘The Church of all things Holy’ which is where I’m going to meet the latest member of the NY Giants: huge NT Patrick Willis.It was a little bit of a suprise big Patrick wanted to meet me here but after I`d been in his company and heard him speak a while, it was the only place to meet.Patrick is a huge man with hands like big black shovels, an incredibly white smile and a soft whispering voice which I found difficult hearing above the traffic.We sit down in a courtyard at the rear of the church and Patrick tells me how he`d been brought up from a very young age with his 4 brothers & 3 sisters to believe in God and Jesus.He has set up a prayer group with fellow Giants TE Joseph Devalle and OG Lamont Ward, called ‘Giant Faith’, where they pray before and after practice and team meetings.Head Coach Harvey lets Patrick say a few words when the team goes down on one knee prior to leaving the locker room.He tells me he helps out at the Church during his spare time and needs to contribute whatever he can to the local church and community. "Doesn`t it effect your beliefs, smashing into and trying to hurt fellow human beings on a Sunday?" I ask him."Football’s football.......Church,God & Jesus are everything else." he whispers back."What are your goals this season?" I ask."To be the best player, friend,and human being I can be." is the answer he almost sings back.

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Strewth! I`d better not confess all my sins and transgressions to big Pat or else I`d be here at least a week!I finish the interview, say that I’ll keep in touch and Patrick gives me a Church Prayer Meeting Schedule which I will file away….(there was a dumpster outside I think). As I walk back to the car I think to myself: Hey! With the incredible Giants fans as the ‘12th man’ and the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost helping out on the D-Line, maybe we got a chance this season!

In summing up, two very different people Jorge and Patrick, both with ideas and plans for this season and the future but with completely differing outlooks on life.It takes all sorts and thats what makes the RDFL so special I guess!!

Until next time, Hank Johnstone signing off……..

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Buccaneers Off-Season Bulletin

The Buccs are moving towards rebuilding rather than adding pieces for another run. In the ‘Glory Years’ of 2008 and 2010 the Buccs were one win away from making it to the season finale. Those days are in the distant past and after Manning’s retirement, after a one year swan song with the team, there are now no star playmakers on offence (or defence) and the team need to regroup and rebuild.

To start the rebuilding process the team, strangely, elected to trade away their first round draft pick (1.21) to Dallas (for Dallas’s first next year, and a 3rd and 4th round selection in the last draft). The team then drafted a LB project in the second round and a pass catching TE in the third round when there’s more pressing needs on the defensive line and at safety. In the lower rounds the team hoped to pick up a hidden gem but unfortunately this looks not to be the case, but time will tell.

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Offense:With Manning’s retirement the team weren’t confident to hand the team over to long term back up QB Plumbtree (went from 46/53 to 52/52 in TC) so signed QB Feeley as competition. Feeley looks the favourite to get the nod (despite losing 7 points over TC; now 54/54) but both have a shot in pre-season. The team run the RB position by committee with Boyd (792 yards) and Plumier (601 yards) the main backs. Plumier has been improving year on year (pre TC last year 36/40 to 45/45) now and looks set to be RB 1(a) this season in the running game. Boyd’s superior catching skills will see him featured on passing downs. Both lack strength running inside to get the tough yards so RB Friedrickson was draft in the sixth round as a short yardage back. The FB position is owned by Harrison (73/73) and the team will give him the opportunity to run the ball more in the pre-season to see if this is something that can be added to the offence/his all-round game? The team picked up FB Thompson in LFA as a potential replacement for the undersized Franz.

The teams’ long time featured receivers* are getting a bit long in the tooth now and 10 yr vet Jackson (1277 yards) showed this by dropping 7 points in TC (48/48 Receivers leader, 8 yr vet, Blake (852 yards) maintained his skills (55/55) and both will be starting again this season. Over the last few seasons the team has tried to find replacements but hasn’t spent a first round pick on anyone. The result is some competent reserves but no real future No.1 or No.2 receivers. Injuries haven’t helped development of Herek, whilst Beyer and Arnold are unlikely to blossom into possible replacements. The TE position is also manned by committee with Ruth, Dillon, and Winters playing in various roles last season. The team drafted man mountain TE Osborne in round three of the draft primarily as a receiver and will be watching his development this season under Ruth’s mentoring.

The strength of the offence is the line. From 2011 to 2013 the team spent mid-late first round picks on C Ramsey (72/72), LG

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Willis (75/75), and RG Lee (65/72) and they are (now) backed up by vet G Snee. RT Barron (59/59) has been on the team since 2005 and is the leader. The team had a problem at LT going into the 2012 season. After trying many players LT Boone (now 43/43), a sixth round pick from the 2012 draft, showed enough to be given the start in 2013 was the start. He responded by allowing one sack and 21 KRBs (BPct 50.0), the team are hoping this wasn’t a one off performance.

To be successful on offence the O line is going to need to protect the passer (only 15 sacks allowed in 2013) and open up running lanes. Whilst the players at the skill position may not be ‘stars’, they are capable of getting the job done. The offence will need to be balanced in order to be successful but the team will struggle if it falls behind in games. Key man – RB Plumier: The Buccs need Plumier to step up as the primary rusher on the team. If he can be effective then this will help open up the passing game and keep defences honest.

Special Teams:P May (74/74) had a comparatively poor season after being selected to the 2012 All League team, hopefully he’ll rebound this season as he may be getting quite a bit of work. The team has become fed up with the limited FG range of K Houston so drafted Monroe and picked up Sitz from FA. Both have stronger legs than Houston; Monroe better accuracy and Sitz the stronger leg (and better KO skills). Both may make the final roster. Blake and Garrod will handle KR duties, with Garrod and Starks returning punts.

Defense:The team were hoping that LDE James (48/48 could produce one more season at a high level. However, a poor camp saw a 13 point drop in abilities as age caught up with him. RDE Harding (67/67) has good skills but struggles due to being undersized at the position. Sack totals were low for both James (2.5 sacks) and Harding (2.5 sacks) last season but occupied blockers and open up lanes for the interior line and LB corps to get to the QB.

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Reserves Jenkins and Gerhardt had decent pass rush skills but struggle against the run. The team were hoping a DT/NT would fall to them in round one of the draft this year, and attempts to move up failed. With no one highly rated enough on the board at 1.21 the pick was traded to Dallas. This is another position by committee for the team. The team may struggle up front this season. A bright spot was FA pickup LDT Bronson who featured on passing downs and maintained his 2012 totals and registered 8.5 sacks.

The ‘strength’ (if it can be called that?) is the LBs, with Carson, Hanks and Sullivan developing well since before TC 2013. The team added SILB Breese (54/54) to add some experience to WILB Hanks (31/43 to 44/48 and (currently MLB) Sullivan (29/51 to 52/52); the three will rotate depending on the situation. SLB Gampepper (51/51) is beginning to lose a step and the team will see if second round pick McNeil (20/42 to 25/44 after TC) can step up for the future. WLB Carlson (44/51 to 57/57) will start with Gampepper. The LBs are going to need to do everything for the defence to be successful this season; stop the run, pressure the passer, and cover the secondary receivers. Unlikely, but the coaches will be watching to see if the younger players can take the step to the next level.

Garrod (59/59) moves to LCB this season as Starks feels the effects of age dropping 5 points in camp. At RCB Chrisman has now developed into a starter, drafted at 29/43 and now 49/49. Reserve CB Schroder has also improved; drafted at 31/38 and now 45/45. FS is manned by Sellers (44/44 a GM favourite, and SS by Flowers (45/45). Neither is a star but their skills are suited to their roles. Reserve Aiken impressed at the combine in 2012 and has improved from 10/26 to 23/37, time will tell whether he will develop into a starter. The team took a flyer on Spangler in the fifth round of the draft this year and look to have missed.

To be a competent unit the younger players are going to have to step up. The big weakness is at NT so stopping the run will be a

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problem, as will putting pressure on the passer. If this happens then we’ll have to fill the box/blitz extra players which will leave a competent secondary without adequate help and susceptible to a deeper passing game. It’s going to have to be a team effort with several players having career seasons in order for the team to be competitive.

Outlook:Long term the team is going to need the younger players on the roster to develop, and to draft/trade well. The GM has learnt a lot over the last few drafts and is going to have to put a great draft/off-season together sooner rather than later for the team to return to being competitive.

* A chance enquiry quickly led to the Buccs veteran receiving duo of Blake and Jackson both being traded. The Buccs got a 2nd round draft pick and a young receiver as compensation. "It's finally time to move on and rebuild the roster", was a quote from an undisclosed source at the Buccs.

The Buccs have been happy with 2 wins in 2 pre-season games so far. The emphasis is on 'team' but rookie SLB McNeil has shown signs his combines were right and bars were wrong. Rookie TE has shown he could be a big part the the passing attack this season, and the young WRs have all made plays in the two games so far. The first few days of a new era have started well.

RedZone appreciates the Bucc’s releasing their feature through the magazine.

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Titans Off-Season Bulletin

Titans GM Darren Birtchnell recently sat down with Joe Biddle of The Tennessean to discuss the Titans off-season moves and hopes for the upcoming season. Here is a transcript of that interview:

JB - So first of all, how do you think the re-build is going? DB - Well I had a 3-year plan in mind when I decided to make all of those trades prior to last season and so we're now in year 2. I'm fairly pleased overall, although of course there are a couple of things that didn't pan out but I think we're getting there.

JB - What were the things that didn't work out? DB - We clearly had a lot of holes so there was no way we'd have been able to fill all of them in one off-season anyway, but I was hoping we could get an upgrade at QB and some young depth at RB in the draft, as clearly these kind of players just aren't available in free agency. We would have given very serious consideration to either of the RBs Pride or Faber, but they had both been selected before we got on the clock at 1.10 and other than those 2 I wasn't sure there was a true franchise

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back in the draft.

JB - So if the Bengals didn't come calling at 1.10, who would you have used the pick on? DB - That's a really tough question. At the time the best players on the board were on the D-line, but I didn't really want to spend the top pick on the D-line as we had much bigger needs elsewhere. I'm really not sure who we would've picked to be honest, so the fact that Cincinnati were keen to make a deal made it easier for us.

JB - But they offered you a DE?! DB - Yeah I know, but they also offered next year's 1st rounder, and in the greater scheme of things I felt like we could really use another first round pick next year. Plus Mack Garner is a great player and will give us 2 bookends at DE with Marshall Freeman for a long time.

JB - Were you please with the rest of the draft? DB - On the whole yes, especially the first 2 rounds. Johnnie Grassley is going to anchor the line for the next 10 years and Ron Hickman is going to be given every chance to start at wide receiver. CB Alonzo Farley was a nice pick-up in the 2nd round and G Pat Stryzinski has been a pleasant surprise so far.

JB - So you weren't so happy with the 3rd round picks then? DB - Well we thought those guys would show us something in training camp, but unfortunately none of them have really stepped up so far. But we're not going to give up on any of them, but they'll need to take advantage of their opportunities when they get them.

JB - Did you target any particular positions in the draft, or was it a case of the best player available? DB - Going into the off-season I was hoping we could upgrade at QB, RB, WR, T and CB. I think we got 3 of those with our first 3 picks, so next year's focus will be more on QB and RB.

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However, you can never have enough good WRs or CBs, so it all depends on who's available at the time.

JB - You were pretty quiet in free agency this year, was that by design. DB - Pretty much to be honest. With so many draft picks most of our focus was spent on the draft, but we did bring in some guys who will contribute this year. Terry Ogden could well start at T and RB Marc Sampson will provide a nice change of pace to Dennis Turner, plus he's a real leader in the locker room. We also brought in DT Kendall Welch to help defend against the run and while he's maybe lost a step, he can still hold his own up front.

JB - So what are your hopes and plans for the season? DB - Well the fans have been pretty understanding about the whole re-building situation, and like I said it's only the start of year 2 of my 3-year plan for getting us back to where we need to be. So having said that, I think we'll probably be around the 6 win mark again. Some of the fans may not like that, but I've got a long-term view here and we may even need to go down a bit further before we can start going up again. I'm hoping that our rookies get to play as much as possible and that they develop as we'd like, and of course I hope that none of our guys get any serious injuries.

JB - Well thanks for your time Darren and good luck for the season. DB - No problem Joe, thanks very much.

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Eye of the Tiger

Bengals Draft Day Shocker

Draft day drama struck at Madison Square Gardens as a couple of teams traded up into the top 10 of this year’s 1st round.

For Bengals fans the excitement came when a last minute phone call to the GM of the Tennessee Titans saw the Cincinnati Bengals pull off a breath taking move, jumping back into the 1st round of this year’s draft.

The Bengals traded out 4yr veteran DE Mack Garner and their 2015 1st round pick in return for the Titan’s 1.10 slot.

With that pick, ukpatfan decided to select Vanderbilt’s star DE Tony Robertson.

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DE Tony Robertson

Robertson did not attend this years combine workouts at Indianapolis because of a family bereavement.Subsequently, his stock dropped slightly and he was rated as the eighth best prospect by the Scouting Agency.However, Cincinnati obviously saw something they liked as they paid a big price to snatch Robertson off the board.

Here is Ukpatfan with his thoughts on the Bengals’ headline making trade:

Q. What did you see in Robertson that prompted you to make a move for him?The guy is an absolute beast and will be a stud pass rusher.I know he didn’t work out in Indy but we had a close look at him when we brought him up for an interview and private workout here in Cincinnati.

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Tony proved to us that he has all the necessary skills in abundance and I’m positive he will become one of the best pure pass rushers in the game. Our new Chief Scout, Leslie Tatum, knows what he is talking about when it comes to D-linemen and he was raving over Tony.Leslie’s report listed Tony as Very Underrated and with a negligible risk of busting. He was also one of the smartest young men in this draft class.As a result, we thought that if he didn’t fly off the board in the first 5 slots or so, we might seek a way back into the draft to grab him.

Q. So, can you explain to us the process involved that brought Robertson to Cincinnati?Firstly, you need to be clear that as soon as we saw the class we had Tony marked as a player that really interested us, despite having no 1st rounder.We had in mind that Tony would represent a massive upgrade on our previous LDE Mack Garner, who had been solid but not great at going after the QB.We liked the thought of Robertson and Caldwell book-ending our D-line and creating the premier pass rush in the league.As a result, we decided to keep a close eye on Tony as the draft started off.

We recognised that Mack Garner would have to move on if we were to have a shot at grabbing Robertson, so we shopped him and waited to see what offers came in.Any chance of getting Tony hinged on Garner leaving.

We had decided that Garner was worth around about 1.20 to 1.25 value to us and about 4 or 5 firm offers came in for

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him, including one or two for the 1st round value that we were looking for.We knew then that we might have a green light to go after Robertson and we got our front office staff on standby to hit the phones.

We waited past Kansas City (1.3), Oakland (1.7) and Denver (1.8) who we thought all might want to take Tony. We didn’t have the muscle to move up that high so it was a nervous wait.When those teams opted to go elsewhere we looked down the board and decided there was a small window around the 1.10 slot to grab him and where we might be able to afford to move up to.

We could have completed on Garner for the 1.20ish pick and kept our fingers crossed, but after close examination we thought there would be no way Tony would slide past Denver (1.11), New Orleans (1.12) and Seattle (1.13) who all looked to be in the market for a quality DE and have some astute GM’s calling the shots.

Our staff made some calls to sound out a couple of GM’s about trading for their pick and luckily we found a trade partner at 1.10.I think I’m right in saying that the fact that Tennessee had multiple picks in this year’s 1st round, meant they were more receptive to trade talk than most other teams might have been.The rest, as they say, is history.

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Robertson about to record another sack for Vanderbilt

Q. Once you had identified a trade partner, how did the negotiations unfold?Well, I believe I’m right in saying we only just caught Tennessee before they selected at 1.10.I mean, I think they were seconds or maybe a minute or so away from handing in their card.It was that close, there were a lot of phone calls being juggled by our staff.

Luckily, we caught them in time and decided to cut out any posturing or delay by making our best offer straight off.We offered Mack Garner and our 1st next year in return for the 1.10.

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We wouldn’t have gone any higher as we were comfortable with sticking with Garner if we had to, but the offer matched the Titan’s value and we got the green light.

The negotiations were very quick, smooth and thankfully completed with the minimum of fuss.There just wasn’t time for any posturing.

Q. Was Mack Garner consulted and how did he react to the news?To be blunt, no he wasn’t spoken to at all. Mack knows the game, this is a business and with time being critical we didn’t have the window to consult with him.He is a pro and is aware these things happen. I have had a chance to speak with him briefly since the trade and he was disappointed to be leaving but equally he’s excited at the challenge ahead.Like all players he wants to play and he feels he will do well for the Titans.He has been a starter in this league and no doubt will continue to be so.

Q. So how do you see Robertson fitting in with his new team mates?I tell you, our owner and the Head Coach called Tony in the green room and he was speechless when he heard we were gonna take him. Absolutely dumbstruck.

He knew we had liked him in our private work out, but wasn’t aware just how much we truly rated him.He certainly didn’t think he would end up being a Bengal, after all we weren’t in the 1st round initially.

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He is very, very excited and has already been on the phone to some of his new team mates including Drew Caldwell and Britt Hetrick.He can’t wait to team up with Drew who is, I think, the best pass rusher in football.Tony’s going to wear his old Vanderbilt number 48 and not surprisingly we have sold thousands of his jerseys already.

As the GM, I think in a season or two Tony and Drew will give the Bengals the premier pass rushing duo in the league.Those two will be chewing up QB’s for years and should become the driving force of our D. We should be able to build around them both.We will also be looking to them to take some of the pressure off our secondary, recognising that that unit needed some help.

I hope Bengals’ fans are already salivating at the prospect of watching those two wreak havoc on our opponents and excitement is undoubtedly building as the big kick-off approaches.

RedZone passes it’s thanks on to Ukpatfan for sharing his thoughts.

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Hit, Miss or Maybe?

Rd 1 QB Analysis:

We all know quarterback is the single most important position on the field of play.Everything goes through him, he directs the play and the pass attack stands or falls on his arm.Because of this, teams are always on the lookout for a star in the making, someone who can carry the team on his shoulders, who will be the face of the franchise.

Every draft sees at least one passer going in the 1st round as teams hunt for that elusive superstar.Some drafts have obvious talent coming out of college, in others the talent is a little thinner on the ground, but you can guarantee somewhere there will be a team that decides to pull the trigger and roll the dice on a young kid fresh out of college.

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The recent draft was no exception, so we are gonna take a look at the two quarterbacks taken in the 1st rd of the 2014 Real Deal Football League Draft.

First up, we go to the New York Jets who picked up Washington State star Richard Sutter with the 22nd overall selection.

Sutter makes a play for the Cougars.

Combine Scores:Dash Sol Strength Agility Jump Pos Sp Dev4.66 45 14 7.45 9.01 82 49%

5’11 ft / 210lbs

Sutter did have some good combine scores and is extremely smart. It was these factors that pushed him up into the scouting bureau’s list of top 10 prospects.

So just why did the 5th best prospect drop down the draft and end up being taken in the 1.22 slot?

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Well, first impressions are he is a little on the small side standing at just 5"11ft. Also the kid looks like he could do with adding some beef to his slightly skinny frame.Pro-teams expect their QB’s to be in the 6’02ft and 220lb region so already Sutter is at a slight disadvantage.

But that is only part of the story, after all players can bulk up and ideal stature is just that, an ideal. We all remember Fran Tarkenton and Doug Flutie.

Sutter’s question marks go deeper than just the tale of the tape.Sure, he impressed at the combines but that ain’t battle conditions.To win games you need to be a player not just a combine warrior.Many scouts didn’t feel Sutter displayed adequate enough pro-football skills in his college career to be a success as a pro quarterback.His passing ability at all ranges looked poorer than average and he didn’t show a cannon arm.Throw in a tendency to be a bit wayward, poor pocket sense and difficulties at reading the game and running an offense, and it’s clear that Sutter just didn’t convince a lot of teams that he could cut the mustard.

Hang on, what about his high intelligence I hear you say?Well, yeah the guy majored in economics and has a larger helmet size than average, but his high intelligence rating might belie an inclination to throw picks as a pro rather than just be an indicator that he can pick up formations pretty darn quick.

Sutter was an enigma in many eyes. A player with nice combines and a good bureau rating, but also one with severe question marks over his skill bars.

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That being said, he may not have projected to go top 10 but he was always likely to go somewhere in the bottom half of the round.There is always a team or two who needs a top quality passer and decides that a guy like Sutter is worth a gamble as the round moves on.

The Jets were that team and pulled the trigger. Recently, they have relied on trading in ageing vets to run their offense, such as Matt Hasselbeck or Jake Plummer.Nothing wrong with getting in tried and tested guys but they aren’t the future and with Hasselbeck now in his 16th year the Jets obviously decided it was time to hand over the reins.

There is no criticism here of the Jets choice. The QB position is such that a player like Sutter is worth the gamble later in the round. His bars could have been (still might) be misleading and his combines might reflect the real Richard Sutter. Only time will tell.

Coming out of training camp, Sutter improved ever so slightly but many just aren’t sold on the guy as his ratings stayed pretty low.He may yet prove doubters wrong, and his debut pre-season against Minnesota (141 QB rating) gave league watchers food for thought, but he will need to be a major boom to win fans over.

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Sutter starred in his pre-season debut v Minnesota

We can now go to the Jets stadium where we are just about to interview the GM Rob7005b:

Q. Firstly rob why did you take Sutter with the 1.22 pick?

A. We really need a franchise QB at the Jets. We've been using ageing QBs as stop gaps for some years with Hasselback now and Warner beforehand. When Sutter was still available at 1.22 we didn't hesitate to pick him.

Q. So Rob finally what are this kid’s chances of starting on the team for the 2014 season and beyond?A. We've two mentors at the Jets so we feel we've got the players to help bring out the best in him.In terms of starting, as always there will be a fair and open competition in pre-season and then week 1....... Sutter will be under the center!!

With that the Jets GM took an urgent call on his cell phone and had to rush off. Something about his coaches not being able to understand Sutter’s complex formation diagrams!!??

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So it looks like the rookie could be the Jets starting QB for the season opener.Jets fans everywhere will be hoping the real Richard Sutter will be revealed when New Jersey host arch rivals the Dolphins at Meadowlands week 1.

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Moving on then to the second of the two Rd1 prodigies, and new Chicago Bear Leland Beggiani, who was drafted 1.28 out of Alabama.

Beggiani practising at Alabama

Combine Scores:Dash Sol Strength Agility Jump Pos Sp Dev4.76 37 11 7.49 8.08 90 6%

6’01 ft / 211lbs

In many ways, Beggiani is the reverse image of Sutter.Whereas Sutter had good combines/bureau score but poor bars, Beggiani was an average combine workout but had nice looking skill sets.Whatever is your poison I guess.However you look at it, both passers represented a risk and it was not a surprise to see Beggiani drop through the round also.

The third generation Italian has more pro-specific size and is also a smart cookie.Scouts liked what they saw in his college career as Leland was able to make every throw in the book (despite playing for a program that positively refused to utilize the screen pass).

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He was also able to exhibit good accuracy and intangibles during his days with the Crimson Tide and the kid appears to understand the x’s and o’s.

Yes, Beggiani is extremely raw with only 6% development but lots of players come into the league wet behind the ears and go on to forge a nice pro career. Low development does increase the risk but as we’ve seen, at this position the potential rewards justify risk taking.

A week before the combine Beggiani was in a lot of people’s top 10 and was definitely rated over Sutter.Then when Sutter stood out in Indianapolis his stock rose and Beggiani’s fell some with some mixed combine scores.An average strength score and a middling 40yd dash made a lot of scouts look long and hard at the guy from a different angle.Doubts began to be raised over Beggiani’s natural ability and athleticism. Those doubts combined with Beggiani’s rawness to cause his stock to drop and he was only just in the running as a top 20 guy.

But again, teams will gamble on a playcaller and Beggiani crept into the 1st round.The Bears have a new GM and with vet Drew Brees now into his 14th season and back up Spindler looking like a long term back up, the dice were thrown and Beggiani was drafted.Again, the Bears decision made a lot of sense and they will be hoping his bars not the combines represent the real player.

Beggiani came out of his first pro training camp looking every bit as raw as expected. His upside is still up, but his potential ratings dropped a little and Bears fans fear the worst. Initially, it looks like the gamble missed.

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Beggiani saw some time under center in the Bears’ second pre-season game against Miami and the kid looked like a rabbit in headlights.Only 3 passes completed from 18 attempts, 4 sacks and 2 picks were not what fans wanted to see and there are already rumours of a locker room fall out between Beggiani and the O-line and backfield team leaders.Not the textbook start to a career and unsurprisingly it proved difficult pinning down the Bears GM after the game to discuss Beggiani.

Downtown Chicago: Bears fans watch Beggiani’s second pick against Miami.

Here’s what he had to say when asked what was the reasoning behind taking Beggiani, when Drew Brees is the obvious starter?

"I'm a new guy running a new team. If I got the chance at a great young quarterback I had to take it. Beggiani was the top player on our board and might have gone at #8 if we didn't trade out.

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When he was available at 1.28 I was very surprised and immediately placed the selection with the commissioner"

Leland's got the potential to be top notch in a lot of areas of quarterback skills. We liked his combine and expect him to be our starting quarterback once Brees is gone. The downsides are his 3rd down reads and sensing the rush. These are big downsides I'll admit, but we're hoping the early reports are off and that Leland proves to be quite adept in the pros.

Offensive Line is probably our biggest strength right now so hopefully we can give Beggiani some help against pass-rushing defenders”.

And as with the Jets GM, the Chicago supremo also had to cut short the interview as a heated argument was heard to erupt from the Bears’ locker room.Wesley Britt was heard shouting: “Hey Rookie. Alabama?? More like ‘Where’s my Mama’!!”

You can now add heavy duty peace keeping to the new GM’s resume!!

Whether the stinging criticism from fans and team mates alike motivated Beggiani who knows, but he certainly upped his game for his second run out pre-season against New Jersey.Completing 15 of 21 passes for 170yds and 2 TD’s with no picks was a huge improvement. His 127 passer rating was as different as his debut game as night and day.Which is the real Beggiani? We won’t know for sure until he sees some regular season action, but his performance versus the Jets has given his GM some hope and maybe, just maybe his new team mates will give him a chance to prove he can handle the pros…..

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Mel K versus UKPF.

The RDFL’s very own spice girl ‘Mel K’ went head to head against the ‘Unknown Fatman’ in this year’s battle of the

mocks.

Want to know who came out top?Take a look.

(5 points for a correct player prediction.2 points for a correct position prediction.)

1. St Louis Rams – RDE Bernie Bridges. – As predicted by both Mel and UKPF. (Mel K 5pts / UKPF 5pts)

2. Carolina Panthers – FL Jorge Wilkerson - As predicted by both Mel and UKPF. (Mel K 5pts / UKPF 5pts)

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3. Kansas City Chiefs – RB Britt Pride – UKPF predicted DE Tony Robertson but both analysts were wrong as Kansas more than seriously considered Britt Pride as his name was called. This was seven spots rise for Pride from Mel and four spots up for UKPF.

4. Arizona Cardinals – CB Rueben Preston – Mel knew it was going to be a CB however having not expected Preston to still be available he went for the wrong one, as Preston falls one spot. UKPF had thought that NT Baker was going to be the man as Preston rises 6 spots on that mock draft.(Mel K 2pts)

5. Philadelphia Eagles – FS Kelvin Shelton – UKPF was spot on with this pick as Shelton is taken by the Eagles. Mel really missed on this pick as not expecting a safety to be taken so high he sees Shelton rise a massive 14 spots (UKPF 5pts)

6. New England Patriots – FL Earl O’Neill– The Patriots see O’Neill fall into their laps as he drops one spot from the Mel Mock.UKPF had expected SILB Grady Rhodes to be the man here as O’Neil was taken 6 spots earlier than expected.

7. Los Angeles Raiders – RB Danny Faber – The need for a RB was too strong as the Raiders decide to make a splash with their first pick since the move to Los Angeles. Faber hears his name called as he rises 4 spots from the Mel prediction and a massive 10 in the UKPF mock. To be fair UKPF had expected Pride to be available at this spot. (UKPF 2pts)

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8. Denver Broncos (through Chicago Bears) – CB Peter Bernard – Denver really wanted this pick as they part with 1.29, 2.18, 2.21 and 7.10 to move up in order to grab the other top Bernard who falls 4 spots in the Mel mock. The biggest shock is that UKPF didn’t even have Bernard going in the top 32 picks.

9. New Jersey Jets – ILB Grady Rhodes – The Jets did go for LB help but went inside as Rhodes falls 2 spots and 3 spots for UKPF as they can’t get his name card handed in quickly enough.(Mel K 2pts)

10. Cincinnati Bengals (through Tennessee Titans) – DE Tony Robertson - The Titans don’t see the player they want here so trade the pick to Cincinnati for DE Mack Garner and a 1st round pick in 2015. The Bengals immediately select a replacement for Garner as they grab LDE Tony Robertson who falls 2 places for Mel and 7 for UKPF.

11. Denver Broncos – NT Oscar Baker – Denver then used their 2nd pick of the round to take NT Baker. He was a player who divided the mock experts, as he rose 7 for Mel and dropped 7 for UKPF.

12. New Orleans Saints – DE Freddie Patton – Both experts had expected the Saints to take a WR with UKPF expecting it to be Billy Joe Gaunt, however both were wrong as RDE Freddie Patton was the man to hear his name called as he rose a massive 12 spots on the Mel board while dropping 1 on UKPF chart.

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13. Seattle Seahawks – WR Billy Joe Gaunt – The experts had expected the Seahawks to find DL help with this pick but it is not the way of this GM as he grabs one of the best WR’s coming out of college as FL Billy Joe Gaunt drops one spot for Mel and rises one for UKPF.

14. Tennessee Titans –RT Johnie Grassley – The Titans retain this pick as this becomes their first of the draft and despite expectations that this would be a WR (UKPF had expected Gaunt to be still available) Tennessee decide to rebuild the OL as they select Grassley who drops 8 spots in the Mel board and rises 12 for UKPF.

15. New York Giants –NT Patrick Willis – Both experts had expected SLB Gerdes to be the man added to the Giants defense. However Willis was the man to hear the call as he rises one spot for Mel and drops 2 for UKPF.

16. New Orleans Saints –SLB Lionel Gerdes – New Orleans continue to rebuild the defense as they can’t pass on Gerdes who drops one spot on both mock drafts.

17. Kansas City Chiefs – DT Bryce Glenn – Kansas were expected to start the rebuild of their offense but having already taken a RB with the 3rd pick (so no need for Faber who was already off the board anyway) it is a defensive player Glenn who is heading off to Kansas as he rises 5 spots on both boards.

18. San Diego Chargers –WR Amos Chung – The Chargers surprise Mel but not UKPF as they take a WR, however it wasn’t Craighead (see note at the end of the article about misses) as expected by UKPF as the Chargers can’t pass on

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Chung is added to the awesome San Diego offensive arsenal. Chung falls 4 spots for Mel and 9 for UKPF.(UKPF 2pts)

19. Pittsburgh Steelers – WLB Deon Snyder – It was not to be a defensive back or a DE as predicted by UKPF, however the Steelers did add to their defense as they can’t believe their luck that Snyder falls into their lap as he drops 10 and 11 places from the mock predictions.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars – LDE Dave Trigg – The Jaguars do go for a DE however it is not Bernie Lake as Trigg falls 7 spots. UKPF had thought Jacksonville would go for a WR, but Trigg was taken 4 spots earlier than expected here. (Mel K 2pts)

21. Dallas (through Tampa Bay Buccaneers) – OLB Mitchell Duggan – Dallas have their eyes on an OLB and know the Jets have a need at that position so they trade for this spot giving the Buccaneers 3.14, 4.18 this year and a 1st in 2015. They take seconds to hand in the card for Duggan who rises 4 and 9 spots respectively.

22. New Jersey Jets –QB Richard Sutter – The Jets do decide to find a QB for the future as they use this pick on top QB Sutter which is a move up of 1 spot for Mel and a drop of 6 for UKPF.

23. San Francisco 49ers – RDE Kurt Robson – With Sutter taken one spot earlier the 49ers go back to the DL and take one of the top DE’s left on the board as Robson heads to San Francisco.

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This is a drop of 4 in the UKPF mock, Mel missed on this player in that he was expected to fall to the 2nd round though was mentioned as a possible player for this pick

24. Oakland Raiders (through Minnesota Vikings) –OG Charlie Custer - The Vikings don’t see a RB who is a value pick here and feel that the offer of the 2.6 and 2.25 picks from the Raiders is a good deal. The Raiders use their 2nd pick in the round to put Custer in front to block for the rookie RB. Mel hadn’t seen Custer going this early while it was a drop of 3 for UKPF.

25. Tennessee Titans – WR Ron Hickman – Having not taken a WR with the earlier pick the Titans make the move to grab one here.They surprise both draft experts as the man is Hickman.

26. Dallas Cowboys – OT Oscar Gardner – Having made a trade to get the pick 1.21 where they selected Duggan there is no need to use this pick on Grier. The Cowboys decide to give QB Palmer some protection by selecting Gardner who falls 5 and 3 spots respectively. (UKPF 2pts)

27. Buffalo Bills – OT Junior Stone – Buffalo don’t go to improve their defense that had a fantastic season last time out. Having already got two quality Guards on the roster the pick is a tackle, as Stone becomes another high pick Bill. This is a move up of 3 spots for Mel, while UKPF had not seen Stone going in the 1st round.

28. Chicago Bears – QB Leyland Beggiani – The Bears trades mean they have 3 of the last 5 picks in the 1st round. This is the first of them as they decide to try and find a QB for the future as

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they select Beggiani who drops 11 spots for Mel and only 3 on the UKPF mock board.

29. Houston Texans – OG Glenn Vann – This pick changed hands a few times as the Texans send it to Denver for DT Henry Verba. Denver then packaged this pick with 2.18, 2.21 and 7.10 to move up to 1.8 with the Bears. Chicago haven already taken a QB decide they can’t pass on Vann who drops 2 spots for UKPF and was not on Mel’s board.

30. San Francisco 49ers (through Miami Dolphins) –OT Artie DeBoer– This pick was traded days before the draft as Miami sent this pick along with RB Dustin Stephens to the 49ers for RB Alfred Bradford. Having already solved the DE issue the 49ers try to give Brady more protection by selecting DeBoer who falls two places on the Mel board. UKPF hadn’t thought DeBoer would be taken in the 1st round.(Mel K 2pts)

31. Indianapolis Colts – TE Chester Cogswell – Both draft experts had thought that the Colts would use this pick to take a DE (though different ones), both were way off the mark as Cogswell is added to the offensive arsenal at QB Roethlisberger’s disposal.

32. Chicago Bears – FS Eric Moyad – Both experts miss on the last pick of the 1st round though UKPF did get the position right as Chicago do use this pick to select a safety but it is Moyad who hears his name called. Mel had thought the Bears would go for a RB here to replace Newman (UKPF 2pts)

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Final Scores: Mel K - 18pts UKPF – 23pts

UKPF strikes it lucky with FS Shelton going to Philly and edges out the veteran Mockster Mel K.

Other Notes:There were a few misses on the mocks as Mel didn’t see 1.23 RDE Kurt Robson, 1.24 RG Charlie Custer or 1.29 LG Glenn Vann being taken in the first round. UPF saw these but missed on 1.8 RCB Peter Bernard, 1.27 RT Junior Stone and 1.30 LT Artie DeBoer. This was not the end of the misses as neither draft expert saw 1.25 SE Ron Hickman, 1.31 TE Chester Cogswell or 1.32 FS Eric Moyad being first round material.

Mel saw 6 players drop out of the 1st round altogether from his mock. RDE Bernie Lake was one of the biggest to fall as he went from 1.20 to 2.14 where the Giants grabbed him. The earliest taken for Mel was 1.27 Patrick Wolsic (UKPF had expected Wolsic to go 1.28) as he was taken early in the 2nd round as Arizona used 2.4 to take him, not too far behind was 1.31 LDE Burt Vilma was snapped up by Detroit with 2.8. 1.26 WLB Lamont Grier was taken by Denver with 2.13 while 1.29 WLB Stan Stephenson fell to Buffalo with the 2.26 pick which was the latest any of Mel’s players was to fall. 1.32 RB Eric Burns went to New Orleans with 2.18.

UKPF (other than Wolsic) saw 1.18 FL Billy Craighead fall to 2.11 where the Colts snapped him up.Meanwhile 1.32 FS Earnest Walton was taken at 2.12 by the Vikings.

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1.20 FL George Kariger went to Chicago with 2.21 but this was not to be the worst drop for any of the players as two fell into the 3rd round. 1.31 RDE Cory Hudson was devastated to fall into the 3rd round where he was selected by the Colts with the 3.3 pick, however this wasn’t the biggest fall as 1.29 RDT Travis McGregor lasted until 3.23 when the 49ers put him and his family out of their misery.

All in all a pretty good go by both mocksters!!

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Rookie of the Year Betting

With a new season round the corner and a host of new rookie stars set to hit the field, here’s an early look at the RoY betting:

Offensive:

WR Jorge Wilkerson – Drafted 1.2 Carolina PanthersWilkerson is already fully up to speed and itching to hit the RDFL. The best receiver in the draft has all the skills and can run back punts too.His team has a new QB Clarence Shields and both guys will want to show what the pass attack can do. Should see a lot of ball as a result.Odds: 3-1

RB Britt Pride – Drafted 1.3 Kansas City Chiefs

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Pride was the top offensive prospect going into the draft and is another guy all set to show what he can do in the pros.Kansas missed a bone fide star last season and now have a playmaker who is a complete back. He will see a lot of carries and is an early favorite.Odds: 2-1

WR Earl O’Neil – Drafted 1.6 New England PatriotsO’Neill was a surprise choice by the Patriots and is not as developed as the other top offensive draft picks are.He should become a productive player but maybe will need a full season before he starts to flex his muscles.Odds: 10-1

WR Billy Joe Gaunt – Drafted 1.13 Seattle SeahawksGaunt was added to give Justin Vance a new weapon. ‘Jaws’ put paid to that link up although Gaunt looks like he will perform this season who ever plays under center.Gaunt will have to be content with being no3 on the depth chart as Humble and Dauber will take some shifting.Probably won’t see as much ball as Wilkerson.Odds: 8-1

WR Amos Chung – Drafted 1.18 San Diego ChargersChung has some polishing to do on his handling and routes but he is capable of getting some serious yardage this year.With QB Tyrus Garrison throwing ball like confetti, Chung could top the pile.Mitchell Green and Thurman Cox will also see a lot of passes so a lot will depend on whether Chung can beat Cox into 3rd on the depth chart.Odds: 8-1

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QB Richard Sutter – Drafted 1.22 New Jersey JetsYou’ve gotta include a QB in there somewhere and Sutter was the top passer taken. However, he hasn’t impressed in training camp and looks like a bust. He will need to shock the league if he is gonna take Rookie of the Year honors.The Jets may decide to give him a year to sink or swim so he is included in the betting.Odds: 33-1

TE Chester Cogswell – Drafted 1.31 Indianapolis ColtsA TE you scream? Well, here’s a dark horse choice.Cogswell is ready to play and was the top TE in the draft. He fills a need for the Colts short passing game and should see some ball as a starter.He will have to go some to beat out the other rookies but some people like to back a long shot.Odds: 33-1

Defensive:

Here’s where it gets tricky as there was some top end talent on the defensive side of the ball this year.

DE Bernie Bridges – Drafted 1.1 St Louis RamsBridges looked a beast going into the draft but has slid a little through training camp. He may just be slow to step up into the pros and even so still looks a quality starter.If he learns the ropes quickly he has the natural athleticism to do some damage.Odds: 12-1

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CB Rueben Preston – Drafted 1.4 Arizona CardinalsPreston is a good prospect and should start for the Cards.He may not be a stud player but should perform well.Not a big interception machine so may be more of a long shot for the award.Odds: 25-1

FS Kelvin Shelton – Drafted 1.5 Philadelphia EaglesShelton looks a complete stud and will start. It looks like he’s pencilled in to remain at FS and he is a ball hawk so should get some picks. A big favorite amongst punters.Odds: 5-1

CB Peter Bernard – Drafted 1.8 Denver BroncosBernard is ready to go and looks the complete corner.He should see some passes thrown his way as opponents test the Broncos D. Bernard is big, talented and should be ready for the test. A lot of money is backing him early.Odds: 8-1

ILB Grady Rhodes – Drafted 1.9 New Jersey Jets Rhodes was the top LB prospect and is a fine player. He may need a season to reach his full development but he should start.Will be at the heart of the Jets defense and may be involved in a lot of plays. It will be interesting to see how much of a playmaker he is.Odds: 12-1

DE Tony Robertson – Drafted 1.10 Cincinnati BengalsA Bengal’s DE took the award last year, can lightning strike twice?

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Robertson is a big end who has the skills to do well. He may need to develop some more but is pencilled in to start.A decent bet at this stage of the game.Odds: 10-1

SLB Deon Snyder – Drafted 1.19 Pittsburgh SteelersSnyder may have been drafted lower than players like Baker, Willis and Gerdes but he looks a little more likely to make an early impact.Big, good all round defender and able to cover the pass, Snyder should be a three down LB who sees a lot oaf action.A dark horse.Odds: 25-1

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Secret Santa

Around The Real Deal:End of 2014 Season Preview

NFC

NF C West

Seattle Seahawks2013 Record: 15-1 Scored 510 (1) Against 303 (1)

Total Offence 398.4 (2) Pass 291.3 (5) Rush 112.6 (14) Total Defence 336.3 (11) Pass 218.4 (4) Rush 129.0 (28th)

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Off-season:Seattle made a move early as they traded with the Bears to obtain the 13th pick of the draft, the 32nd overall pick and a 1st round pick next year went the other way. DT Dembek and FL Gador were the first new faces to move into Seattle before RB Hodges and two FB’s (Norris and Bradford) inked offers. The big FA signing was on defense as SS Lofton was added to the roster for 2 years. The 1st round draft pick was one of only two for Seattle and was used wisely to add another offensive threat as Billy Joe Gaunt was added to the stable. Mr Irrelevant was SS James and he may lose that tag quickly. Update: During preseason Seattle added QB Eli Manning.

Offense Training camp saw QB Vance have a major accident and in a shock move Seattle have made Vance available for a trade. Quinn has been announced as the new starter in what could be the biggest shock in the RDFL in many years. Eli Manning has been added to the roster as a backup in case Vance leaves before the trade deadline. Quinn will have quality targets with Dauber and Humble still available, add rookie Gaunt and TE Stargell and the Seattle offense will still be potent. Another worry for the Seahawks is that RB Hitchcock is holding out and with Jackson looking like he has lost a step this could be a crucial contract to sort out. Whoever gets handed the rock will have a decent OL blocking upfront, C Bradley, LG Andrews, RG Upshaw, LT Petitti and RT Walsh form a quality starting five.

Defense Seattle have made noises about moving back to a 4-3 as they look to ensure that DE Bernie Banks can be even more productive. Cote will start on the other side, though look for Seattle to insert Frankie Banks when they can to confuse the opposition OL blocking schemes. If they do go to 4-3 NT Monroe will man one of the DT spots, Dembek would be favourite to man the other, though NT Goodwin is a better run

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defender. SILB Durden can play MLB while Frederick and Hughes would play outside. The secondary is led by CB Boone while Carvin and Crowninshield are both quality on the other side regardless who gets the starting spot. Lofton has been brought in to start at SS to replace the aging Considine while Schoonover will start at FS.

Special Teams Zastudil continue as the punter despite reaching his 13th season, while the kicking job is likely to be Brock’s due to his accuracy while Cowan will be assigned kick-off duties. Look for Carvin to be used on kick-off returns after bringing one back for a TD last season, the punt return job is up for grabs

Verdict Seattle will expect to win the West, though the change at QB will ensure that it is no cake walk this season. Once they get to the playoffs anything could happen but they may not be the bookies favourites as we start the season.

San Francisco 49ers2013 Record: 10-6 Scored 407 (10T) Against 351 (11)

Total Offence 377.5 (10) Pass 270.9 (9) Rush 115.3 (13) Total Defence 309.6 (2) Pass 209.0 (2) Rush 111.3 (14)

Off-seasonFor a solid high performing franchise the last three seasons have been frustrating but at the same time impressive. Frustrating because of the early exits from the post season – watch out for them Falcons. Impressive because they get to the post season in the shadow of the Seahawks. A potent passing attack is what gets the job done and when the ground game stutters as it often does – Brady airs

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the ball with remarkable success given time by a good pass blocking line. On the defence the 49ers are okay but that's it.Off season activity concentrated on beefing up the run blocking with both FA signings LeCharles Bentley & Jon Dunn bringing potential upgrades. The draft saw the 49ers address the defensive side of the ball with early picks going that way – but only 1st rounder Kurt Robson looks to figure anytime soon. The other 1st round T Artie DeBoer will get a shot but looks to need a couple of year's yet.

OffenceWell if you have Tom Brady maybe you don't need a running game. Resolving the contract holdout was a priority and there was a collective sigh of relief when that got straightened out. Everpresent in 2013 with an incredible rating of 113.5 Brady's arm seems to be getting stronger and his aim truer as he ages – a phenomenal leader to have on your team. It's hard to judge what's on the bench though as we never get to see them - 2nd round pick Brock Springer looks like a competent QB in potential but the drop off is severe. The day that Brady doesn't dress for a game is gonna be a long day in the Bay area. Action in free agency and the trade for Dustin Stephens from Miami shows that the coaching staff recognise that sooner or later they have to have an alternative to plan Brady. To have a great passing offence you need receivers and the 49ers have two great ones in vetern Quincy Morgan and TE Heath Miller. It is a sign of Brady's genius that he gets exceptional performance from all of his targets even the mediocre ones. The OL is helped by the quick Brady release and game savvy but their ability to give Brady time is undoubted. Terrance Walsh was a steal at the bottom of the 1st round and looks to be the leader of the line for some time to come. Eric Pears & Martin Brelsford round off the line but behind the starters the quality is raw and thin.

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DefenceThis unit has received a push in the draft and Kurt Robson will slot into a starting position straightaway. He will have a great role model in Charles Grant who is still productive and a leader of the team. Add to this talent 6th round find Philip Daniels and the pass rush should cause some problems to opponents in 2014. Doug Dollar & Darnell Dockett round out the line and are capable players but again the depth looks shallow. Dale Lyle had a quiet 2013 after his 5 sacks the year before and some niggling injuries won't have helped. The 49ers will hope he gets back to his best alongside Lofa Tatupu who also had an indiffernt 2013 when you consider what he is capable of. With these two back to their best the Linebacking unit will carry menace behind the revitalised DL.In the secondary Jeremy Roberson should be a standout player but only seems to come alive in the post season. Fabian Washington is actually tougher to throw against which is to his credit as he just does not have the physical skills of Roberson. There is little depth at CB and the 49ers must hope for an effective pass rush because they have the potential to get burned. At safety the quality is more consistent with two decent free safeties in Russell Elard and new FA signing Terrence Kiel. At strong safety Rodrigues Wilson is a reliable presence but there is precious little behind him.

VerdictHow can you get beyond the talent of Brady? It is to the credit of 49ers front office that they are looking to build for the post-Brady years. Nevertheless he is their past and their present. If he goes down it is hard to see a post season team but with him the 49ers can play after Xmas and then avoid the Falcons hopefully.

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Arizona Cardinals 2013 Record: 4-11-1 Scored 274 (30) Against 387 (21T)

Total Offence 309.1 (27) Pass 195.3 (29) Rush 125.0 (6T) Total Defence 355.2 (18th) Pass 231.2 (9) Rush 130.9 (30)

Off-seasonIts been a long time since the Cards had a winning season and the fans are entitled to expect the recent run of high draft picks to come through. There is real talent on the roster and the front office showed determination to succeed by shaking up the staff with the arrival of a new defensive co-ordinator and scouting team.Off season was quiet but the Cards hope that the defensive problems will be addressed with the arrival of Robert McCune as a highly paid LB to line up alongside a talented linebacking corps which raises the prospect of a 3:4 look for 2014. This is in addition to the two first day picks spent on defence.On the offensive side of the ball the Cards performed better than their win record would indicate but the passing attack was lacklustre.

OffenceThe good news is that QB Dave Ballard is getting better each season but the bad news is that he is just average and has a long way to go to be a focal point for a winning team. Given the large number of top ten picks recently Ballard is lucky to be unchallenged. Both Zimmerman and this year's third rounder Johnson look to be projects rather than definites and Ballard needs to produce.Gilbert Stevely had his best season since being nominated the starting RB with over 1400 yards and running behind a very powerful OL indicates more to come. Martin Ause at TE is a real weapon as both a blocker and a receiver. The passing attack isn't helped when the veteran flanker Doug Gabriel dropped 7

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passes but overall is a consistently productive target The star in the receiving corps is Deron Warhurst who has the potential to be the amongst the best in the league. After a decent year for any rookie but a disappointing year for Warhurst his continued development is critical to the establishment of a passing threat for the Cardinals. A solid OL is anchored on Emmanuel Everett who is big in every sense. The stats indicate that there should be no problems with this group and there is room for improvement from a young group that will benefit from the extra year's experience.

DefenceThe Cardinals start behind the line for both run and pass defence. This explains the action in FA and the draft to bring in talented players. Vince Wilfork is the league's strongest man but unfortunately he raises strong feelings in the dressing room – they should be positive ffor the leader but they are not. The stand out talent is Kris Fielder who fully justifies his 3rd overall draft pick and will be a rock on which a strong foundation can be built. This unit is young and has plenty of potential and has the luxury of being supported by an above average LB unit. For all of its talent though the pass rush is disappointing and totally reliant on Fielder. Levon Terry is the completely talented LB but needs to get in the face of the QB more. Adding Devin Martin and Corey Blackman to McCone and Terry gets a heady mix at LB and must bring a better production in 2014.In the secondary the Cards gambled the 4th overall pick on CB Reuben Preston. The gamble is because Preston declined to attend the combines and so the new scouting team made this call. There is some disappointment from the fans as both Kevin Shelton and Peter Bernard look better prospects before TC. The surprise is that there is talent in this secondary that didn't perform to their potential in 2013.Cornelius Hartman is one of the best safeties in the league and is well supported in a solid unit. The Cards do need Preston to beat the critics and develop to really present a challenge to opposing offences.

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VerdictThis is a talented squad with stand out players sprinkled through out the roster. We can expect further improvement in 2014 but the real breakthrough needs a better QB but that may be all.

St Louis Rams:2013 Record: 1-15 Scored 238 (31T) Against 427 (29) Total Offence 279.4 (32) Pass 197.5 (28th) Rush 96.9 (28th) Total Defence 384.0 (32) Pass 274.2 (29) Rush 116.8 (20)

Off-season:St Louis need to turn around this franchise and the lack of success might have had an impact on who would sign for this team. RB Aragon came over from Arizona and Tackle Butler from the Texans. Then DE Cody was a big money signing from the Saints. C Shelly was a good pickup from Cleveland as was QB Palmer from the Browns. The Rams were heavily involved in trades as they sent LB Ruud to Houston for a 3rd and 5th round pick as well as a 4th in 2015. RG Terry went to New Orleans for a 4th round pick. St Louis did use two 5th round picks to add another 4th round pick and sent C Blanchard to San Diego for LG Dubroc. St Louis added CB Miller at the cost of a 4th and 7th and QB Brewer left as he headed to Kansas for 3rd and 5th round picks. The big offseason news was DE Bernie Bridges was taken with the first pick in the draft, while LT Hayakawa was a 3rd round selection.

Offense R J Palmer and Stokes will battle for the starting job, Stokes has more upside but Palmer probably gives the Rams a better chance

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to win now. Delvalle and Beeler offer excellent targets as does TE Evans and when you add in RB Pritchett who caught 62 passes last season their should be lots of option. Pritchett is also excellent running the ball and if he can follow FB Rodrguez into the hole then there should be good yardage on the ground. The issue on offense is that the OL is no more than solid, Shea will start at C, Shannon at LG and Daniels at RG. O’Donnell is a good RT the issue is that rookie Hayakawa is likely to start at LT.

Defense NT Jefferson is the heart and soul of the defense, with Cody on one side and rookie Bridges on the other the Rams are building an awesome DL. Mind you looking at the LB corp. it is a good job as they are no better than average here. Borders and Hawkins may start inside while Merriman and Stokes are the better players outside. It may even be worse when looking at the secondary as CB’s Miller and Flynn need to stop the passing attacks of the Seahawks and 49ers with little help from rookie SS Bonham and FS Emanuel.

Special Teams Barrett will continue as punter while the kicking job is up for grabs as Mason looks the better long term bet, however Robertson has more accuracy at present. Rookie WR Foster could return punts so may challenge CB Willis who did bring one back for a score last time out, while Beeler returned two kick-offs back for TD’s last season.

Verdict The Rams will be better so are unlikely to have the first pick in next years draft, however they are not going to challenge for a playoff spot with a secondary that has way too many holes. If the DL can apply pressure it will help but they need some quality here.

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NFC South

Atlanta Falcons

2013 Record: 11-5 Scored 465 (3) Against 343 (7)

Total Offence 362.1 (12) Pass 194.3 (31) Rush 176.1 (1) Total Defence 367.4 (24) Pass 261.1 (24) Rush 113.3 (16)

Off-season There was no major moves in the offseason as the Falcons already had most of the components in place. Nakamura signed a new contract as did TE Marquardt. Getting Sauerbrun to renegotiate his contract was a strong move as he could start on a number of other teams while back-up QB Finley also signed a new deal. Free agency saw the additions of TE Floyd to backup Marquardt, however the drafting of Malone in the 6th round means this may be a short term move, in fact it is likely all the additions were brought in to challenge the back-ups as they are not starting calibre. With few draft picks the Falcons had few opportunities to add quality here though undrafted SE Dotson looks a useful player as does LT Whitecross.

Offense Robbie Reed looks like he will continue to be the QB in Atlanta as Scott Finley hasn’t quiye shown enough to take over as the starter, though he is going to be a solid back-up. Reed has the benefit of having two quality targets as Walters and Nakamura start their 3rd season in the league and will be expected to produce more after last season run orientated game plan. The starters are so good that Sauerbrun only started 4 games last season and he would start for a number of other teams. Running the ball wasn’t a bad idea as Somerville and Walters both gained more than 1000 yards last season at over 5 yards per carry each. Blocking up front is a quality if not old OL, C Brown is in his

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10th season, LG Smiley and RT Olivea are both in their 11th seasons while LT Branch his 9th leaving RG Lucas to be the youngest of the starters as he enters his 7th season. FB is an open position with Tapeh and Bombard on different ends of the scale in relation to experience. If the Falcons do pass more TE Marquardt is a pass catcher, Lucas a better pass blocker.

Defense MLB LaFountain is the heart of the defense, though DT’s Scully and Griffith take care of the middle allowing Teddy to make tackles all over the field. Alongside LaFountain there are 3 players likely to see plenty of playing time, SLB Gist has excellent pass rush skills as does WLB Santana. The best run defender of the three is WLB Middleton and he may switch over to the strong side. The front seven will be rounded out by DE’s Naslund and Gospe though expect 3rd year player Poteat to see more playing time this year. The Falcons have two quality CB’s in Terrell and Cash, though Money did start 14 games last season. Cooper has the SS spot secured but FS is an open competition that Fulcher is favoured to win.

Special Teams Lee is expected to hold off Ferreira for the punting role, though nothing is certain, while Jeff Reed is a better kicker than Arnett it will be interesting to see how that battle plays itself out. The Falcons have lots of options in the return game where Zhang and Saurbrun both averaged over 35 per return and found their way to the end zone once, Punt returns will fall to CB Cash (12.9 avg) as Walters in not going to be risked here.

Verdict The Falcons will be looking to win the South again and then it is a question of what can they do in the playoffs, they have the components in place to go all the way, the question is whether they can.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2013 Record: 9-7 Scored 407 (10T) Against 362 (14T)

Total Offence 392.9 (3) Pass 291.7 (4) Rush 106.3 (18th) Total Defence 353.8 (17) Pass 238.3 (12) Rush 129.1 (29)

Off-season Manning hung up his cleats after another quality season, the first new face came through a trade as SILB Breese came over from Chicago for a 3rd round pick, then the replacement for Manning was signed in free agency as Feeley inked a 2 year contract. There were a number of draft picks traded, usually with Dallas, the Buccs traded for 2.17, giving up 2.20 and 5.21 using the pick on SLB McNeil, however the biggest trade was giving up 1.21 for a 1st next year as well as a 3rd and 4th in this years draft. During preseason the Buccs let WR Jackson go to New Orleans with Wally Hughes coming the other way, while WR Blake went for a 2nd round pick next year.

Offense After one year of Peyton Manning the QB to lead the Buccs this season was expected to be free agent signing A J Feeley, though after training camp it looks like Plumtree may be the man. 2nd year man May could be the future but still has lots of developing to do and undrafted QB Roger Reed may push him for the 3rd QB spot. Blake and Jackson were the key receivers with Jackson having a career year last time out however during preseason these two have left as the Buccs continue to trade for younger players or draft picks (a 2nd round pick for Blake). Herek, Beyer and Arnold are young receivers with lots of potential and have been joined by Wally Hughes from New Orleans. Look for rookie TE Osborne to be involved in the passing game along with Dillon. Blocking up front is strong with C Ramsey flanked by LG Willis and RG Lee, RG Snee may well be pushed outside

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to play RT while RT Barron could move over to the left. If Tampa don’t want to switch Barron then Boone would be the logical choice at LT. Running behind this line will see Plumier look to have a better season after a disappointing rookie campaign as he follows FB Harrison through any holes created. If the Sophmore can’t cut it then Boyd may hear his number called.

Defense DE Harding is the key to the Tampa defense as he ensure double teaming if the opposition don’t want to see lots of outside pressure, on the opposite side James is solid, while the NT role will be fought out between Bronson, a pass rush specialist and run defenders Poole, Burke and rookie Rivera. Breese who came over from Chicago will start at SILB with Pope likely to be WILB, though Sullivan is a better defender against the run. Outside Gamper and Carlson are the best two but neither is particularly suited to playing the pass rush role in a 3-4 so Reiswig and rookie McNeil will be looking to get playing time. The secondary has two good CB’s in the form of Garrod and Chrisman, Starks may drop to the nickel role while Schroder excels in M2M coverage. Flowers will retain the SS starting job while Sellers after 3 picks last season will continue at FS.

Special Teams May is a quality punter but his hang time could do with improvement, the kicking job is up for grabs as Houston is accurate but lacking in leg strength, so has two rookies challenging him for the role Monore a 7th round pick and the undrafted Sitz will provide real competition. WR Blake is a quality kick-off returner (26.8 avg and 1 TD) while CB Starks is likely to retain a spot on the roster as a punt returner (14.2 avg)

Verdict A solid season with a chance at the playoffs, question marks at QB and RB may keep the Buccaneers from making into the

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postseason dance again, but if the coaching staff can put a quality gameplan in place anything is possible.

New Orleans Saints

2013 Record: 8-8 Scored 362 (22T) Against 318 (2)

Total Offence 326.1 (24) Pass 234.6 (22) Rush 98.9 (27) Total Defence 333.0 (8th) Pass 226.0 (7) Rush 119.3 (24)

Off-season Headcoach Farr signed a new contract as did the OC and DC to keep the coaching staff in place. The Saints resigned WR Valdez as did C Godfrey as well as a few others, the first new face was RB Earnest who comes over from New York, FS Lyle also inked a contract as he left Kansas. New Orleans were busy trading, as they acquired RG Terry as they sent a 4th round pick to Dallas. They then moved one of their 1st round picks in exchange for 2.18, 3,7 and 3.11 with the Bears. The building of an old OL continued as the Saints try to protect Culpepper for another season as they made another deal with Dallas RT Foster and a 4th round pick were exchanged for a 3rd and 5th. The final trade was an excellent pickup as TE Morton and a 4th round pick were received in exchange for a 2nd round pick. The Saints still had lots of draft picks as they added DE Patton and SLB Gerdes in the 1st round. RB Burns was a 2nd round selection, FB Gardner and SE Huntley 3rd round picks. During preseason the Saints sent WR Hughes to Tampa for WR Blake

Offense Culpepper is in his 15th season and the GM has added some quality OL players to protect him for another go at reaching the playoffs. RG Terry will start with Stepanovich and Hangartner in the interior, Foster gets the nod at RT and Patterson LT. Its

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worth noting that Patterson is the future as he is in his 5th season the rest of the starters will be in their 10th or more. Clayton was the main receiver however this average bunch has been improved with the trade for Blake. Rookie Huntley may play in the slot while another rookie Schwartz looks to offer more than some of the other receivers in the longer term. Though the best target may be TE Morton, the running game will see rookie Burns be given an opportunity to grab the starting role, if he isn’t ready then Wilson and Earnest will share the load.

Defense The Saints defense is led by one of the best CB’s in the game, Leicester is a scary thought that worries every QB that has to throw against him. Webster will start on the other side. The best safeties on the roster both play at FS so Lyle will start at FS while Toro will play SS. There is a strong starting LB corp here as well as Roever patrols the middle. There are two excellent SLB;s with Jenkins and Gerdes, they will both start as one will switch to the weak side. WLB McKenzie is a decent backup and provides depth. Upfront Gelat and rookie Patton will start outside, the one worry is that the Saints only have two DT’s on the roster so Ellison and Gilbertson will play but if there are any injuries then there could be problems.

Special Teams Groll is a solid punter though sometimes lacks hang time while Mahoney will get the kicking job done. Clayton usually returns punt however rookie Schwartz may be handed that role this season, he can also return kick-offs and may earn his roster spot by securing both jobs.

Verdict New Orleans have put a team together to challenge the Falcons for the division title, Culpepper will have better protection and if the running game can work then they will have a chance of moving the ball, the one worry is the quality of the WR’s. The

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defense is more than solid so it could be an exciting year for the Saints

Carolina Panthers

2013 Record: 2-14 Scored 237 (31T) Against 417 (27)

Total Offence 306.2 (28th) Pass 195.1 (30) Rush 133.1 (3) Total Defence 347.0 (15) Pass 245.4 (13) Rush 111.7 (15)

Off-season Carolina saw starting FS Ohalete retire before revamping the coaching staff as Matthews moves over from San Francisco to be the head coach, Stephenson will be the OC after some good years in Jacksonville and Moore came over from Cincinnati to be the DC. It didn’t take long for the Panthers to get involved in trading as they sent a 4th round pick and the Rams 2015 1st round pick to the Bengals for QB Shields. The Panthers spent considerable time renegotiating contracts, including Shields, MLB Crawford and FS Harris. Knapp was added as the teams punter while RB Benson came over from the Raiders, Guard Sciullo, CB Ramsey and ILB Cordero also joined as they signed big one year contracts. However the biggest signing was New Orleans DT Patterson who signed a 2 year contact for $39.76 million. The draft saw WR Wilkerson taken with the 2nd overall pick, Burks (FB) was taken in the 2nd round while Kicker Perez was a surprise 3rd round selection

Offense Bulger and Shields will battle for the starting job through preseason, though it is thought that Shields ability to avoid the pass rush may be key to winning the starting job. Whoever wins the job will have rookie Wilkerson to throw the ball to, on the other side there is a battle as FL Goss will demand playing time

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while 2nd year receiver Soward looks to have more upside then some of the other receivers on the roster. TE Winters will offer an excellent mid range target so will be heavily involved in the passing game. Look for RB Osieja to get much more playing time after averaging 5.7 yards per carry in his rookie season, Benson wasn’t signed to warm the bench and Stewve Bush looks like he has real potential. Blocking upfront will see Coston start at C as rookie Greer is allowed time to develop, Zeller and Sciullo will start at G, Schroeder will be at RT, while the LT spot will be between Mitchell and rookie Brock

Defense The DL is the strength of the Panthers with DE Miller and DT Patterson ensuring that OL’s need to account for the pair of them, if they then forget DE Guthrie and DT Flowers they will have made a huge mistake, behind them SLB Caldwell is as good as it gets and MLB Crawford is improving. Cordero will get the nod at WLB though back-up Upshaw is at the same level so ensuing the same sort of productivity. The problem for the Panthers is the secondary where CB’s Ramsey and Nelson are at best average, rookie Johnston will get the nod for the nickel role. Harris is the starting FS though Irwin is the future, Sensabaugh will start at SS though undrafted rookie O’Neal looks to have more upside .

Special Teams Knapp is the new punter while rookie Perez has won the starting kickers job as Farr went to the Colts (with ILB Davis in exchange for 4th and 7th round picks). There is a question whether the Panthers will risk Wilkerson returning punts. CB Ramsey is a solid kick-off returner

Verdict Carolina has an amazing DL however as good as that is the secondary is worse, if the Panthers can’t get pressure on then the opposing QB’s will have a field day passing. The offense is improving and the additions of Shields and Wilkerson gives

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them a decent passing game. Carolina will be improved this year but will not be attending the playoffs until they can improve the CB position.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys2013 Record: 11-5 Scored 484 (2) Against 367 (16T)

Total Offence 381.2 (7) Pass 266.9 (11) Rush 123.8 (8th) Total Defence 350.4 (16) Pass 280.4 (31) Rush 85.4 (1)

Off-season It was a busy time in Dallas as 8 trades were achieved before and during the draft. Following the retirement of SS Adam Archuleta, FS Benjamin Sanford was swapped for Miami’s FS Nick Collins and a 2nd round pick. Elsewhere, young pass rushing WLB Glenn Krakowski went to San Diego for veteran QB Chad Pennington, 10th year CB Justin Miller went to St Louis and RT George Foster went to New Orleans, both for some picks. There was then plenty of trading with the picks and a nice looking draft.

Offense QB Vince Palmer had a phenomenal season last year with a QB rating of 126.1. He also only threw 2 interceptions in a 12 game season shortened by an arm injury. Coming out of the backfield, Jumbo Pieters was the offensive rookie of the year with over 1250 yards and an amazing 18 TDs. He found the holes courtesy of top FB Jackie Cline (23 KRBs) and the threat posed by the passing game. Both Larry Fitzgerald (7 TDs) and 4th year man

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Juan Estep (12 TDs) topped 1000 yards receiving. Centre Roosevelt Bouse joined his numerous colleagues in the pro bowl following his injury ravaged season of the year before. LG Mark Duncan and RT Michael Roos are the other outstanding players on the O-line. The hope is that 1st round selection Oscar Gardner from Furman college can step up in his first year, while Josh Moln will probably hang on to his RG spot although 2nd year man Jim Huffman could push him here. Veteran TE Randy McMichael did a job in this first season as a Cowboy and is a great 3rd down target for Palmer.

Defense LDE Percy Whitfield dipped to just 7.5 sacks last time after double digits the year before. Warren Cruz starts as the other end and is a solid pro. DT Christian Herrlich is a player to avoid for opposing teams, and his partner in crime is 3rd year man Orlando Burt who is also adept at leaving running backs on the ground. At linebacker, the other 1st round selection is SLB Mitchell Duggan from Louisiana State and he should contribute this year . Whether his arrival means that incumbent SLB Dwight Bonds moves to the weak side to replace Krakowski remains to be seen. No question marks in the middle though, with Nick Barnett returning ably backed up by Odell Thurman. At corner, 2nd round selection Lamont Carvin has promise, but will sit and learn from Ken Wells and J.T. Watkins. The safety squad players have seem some changes, but are still very strong with Troy Brister now partnered by the veteran Collins.

Special Teams Sammie Boniol had a great rookie year with 85% of field goals (and a bucketful of extra points), but the jury is out as to whether he will reach the potential you’d expect from a 3rd round selection. No such worries with the leg strength of punter Benjamin Loving. Backup receivers Bucky Whitener and Norman Potts handle the return duties.

Verdict

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Dallas have an offense that can score a mountain of points on anyone, and a tough defense that will keep them in games should the need arise. They have a good blend of star veterans and promising youth, and will push the others in the division again this season. With the weapons on offense, Palmer will probably be the QB to watch in the league this year, and look for Pieters to see if he can repeat on this impressive TD haul on the ground. 6-0 again in the division is probably too much to ask again, but look for the Cowboys to once again make the postseason and be a threat amongst the elite.

Washington Redskins 2013 Record: 11-5 Scored 451 (4) Against 431 (30) Total Offence 37813 (8th) Pass 286.4 (8th) Rush 103.6 (24) Total Defence 380.9 (29) Pass 287.4 (32) Rush 105.8 (10)

Off-season The Redskins traded big this offseason acquiring DE Glenn Sagapolutele for a 2nd and 3rd round draft pick. LG C.J.Jackson left in free agency for the Jets. The initial results from the draft don’t look too good, although there was no first round selection this year from the deal that brought Philip Rivers to Washington.

Offense Rivers smashed team records en route to throwing for 4577 yards, 39 TDs and a rating of 119.7. He had a pair of brilliant targets, with Braylon Edwards hauling in 15 TDs and Sharod White had 10 TDs. They were helped by the 6th straight 1000 yard season rushing from Carnell Williams. TE John Davis developed well throughout his rookie season, and should help both the rushing and passing games this year. Bennie Pearson will return as FB. The offensive line is built around C Nolan Corbett, while Terrance Miller and Lonnie Ingram return as the

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tackles. At guard though.... it’s all likely to be undrafted players with 2nd year man Carlton Carrubba ahead at LG and 3rd year man Christian Duran ahead at RG. Neither will open too many lanes for Carnell Williams though.

Defense The defensive line of the Redskins is now a unit to be feared with the arrival of Sagapolutele. He’ll start on the left end, while Demarcus Ware can now move back to the right end after a 12 sack season. There’s no easy option in the middle either with Shaun Rogers and Barry Dole both returning. The situation is less bright at linebacker, although SLB Jason Babin has talent. Brian Joyner is solid against the run at MLB, while WLB is completely up for grabs. Andre Schultz arrived from the Ravens in free agency, and perhaps is the current leader. Jesse Emmons will start at CB with the veteran Carlos Rogers, although look for 2nd year man Blake Forland to see some playing time. Things are much more settled at safety, where Donte Nicholson and Dwayne Wooden are an established pairing.

Special Teams Darryl Benefield had a solid rookie season at punter and should improve. K Joel Price enjoyed a great season, connecting on over 85% of his field goals. The starting receivers are the main returners – Sharod White had a TD on a punt return last year. Rookie Travis Buckley has some talent at kick returning, so it may be that Braylon Edwards is not risked on returns this year.

Verdict The wildcard loss in Minnesota was a massive disappointment to the Redskins after the season that they had. A week 17 defeat at Philadelphia cost them the divisional title and a bye to the second playoff round. If Rivers and co can reproduce the attack from last year, then they’re in with a chance, but the games with the Cowboys are the key.

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New York Giants 2013 Record: 8-8 Scored 369 (19T) Against 385 (20)

Total Offence 327.9 (23) Pass 238.6 (20) Rush 102.9 (25) Total Defence 292.6 (1) Pass 208.0 (1) Rush 94.6 (3)

Off-season Julius Peppers has called it a day taking the all-time sacks record (85.5) with him. He leaves behind a team with a new(-ish) GM, 4 seasons with no postseason play and a job to do to catch the Cowboys and Redskins. So, to address the deficiencies with the running game, two 3rd round picks were sent to the Lions for RB Juan Jenkins, who was surplus to requirements once Mike Newman had arrived. A 6th round pick then went to St Louis to acquire Deion Kelley to back him up. A quiet free agency was then followed with a surprising draft with their top selections being defensive players for the future.

Offense Jenkins arrives following a 1200+ yards and 11 TD season with the Lions. He promises to be the strongest Giants rushing threat since, well, ever. QB Ted “Danson” Alonso will be pleased at any offensive initiatives that might mean he spends less time in the dirt (3 straight years with 30+ sacked). SE Kelly Mastin is now his favourite target and topped 1000 yards for the first time last year. Mike Williams will be back at flanker after another good year. Reggie Gambone will start at TE, but this isn’t the strongest area of the offense; neither is FB where Derek Cash currently starts. RG Melvin Montgomery is the outstanding player on the line, while last year’s 1st round pick Kelvin Whitley has now secured the LG spot. Courtney Gillespie is established at Centre, while the returning tackles are Rich McKnight and Adam Terry. McKnight, in particular, had a season to forget keeping Alosno upright.

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Defense 3rd in rushing defense, 1st in passing defense – this unit know how to play the game, though life after Peppers now begins. 2nd round pick Bernie Lake will hope he can grow into the player that he was, but first he’ll sit and watch Donny Stone on the right, and ex-Patriot Sam Dougherty on the left. In the middle, Myron Bustamante and pro bowler Jay Riley return while 1st round pick Patrick Willis sits and learns his trade. LB Edward Shannon has departed for Cleveland, but the talented Larry Baglien has remained. Oliver Fillion still patrols the middle, but the other starter will have to be second year man Darnell Schulz who only saw 51 plays last year. The biggest star on this defensive unit is now 4th year CB Omar Sacco who went to the pro bowl. The remaining member of this league leading unit are CB Chris Gamble, SS Edward Reed and FS Sean Taylor (another pro-bowler). This time last year they looked too old, but proved the experts wrong through their play.

Special Teams Punter Bert Horton went to the pro bowl in this second season, while kicker Tyrone Fisk can’t have been far away. He was 6/12 on 50+ yard kicks. Kelly Mastin took a punt return all the way last season, while 4th round selection SE Jesse McWilliams could contribute as a kick returner.

Verdict The Giants should now be able to run the ball. If the defense can survive the loss of Peppers, and any signs of aging in the secondary, then the Giants have a chance. But the East is tough, and if you want to see any play in January, you need to beat some of your divisional rivals, which is something the Giants failed to do last season.

Philadelphia Eagles 2013 Record: 5-11 Scored 315 (27) Against 405 (23)

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Total Offence 297.8 (30) Pass 222.4 (24) Rush 89.0 (30) Total Defence 370.6 (28th) Pass 266.7 (28th) Rush 117.4 (23)

Off-season It’s been a quiet summer in Philly where fans are hoping for continuing signs of improvement following the 3-13 season in 2012. The 5th pick in the draft saw the arrival of FS Kevin Shelton from Hawaii, who looks like a real talent who can learn from veteran Marques Anderson who was signed from the Lions. Things are less rosy elsewhere, with the signs that 2nd round selection SE Dan Jenkins looks like a massive bust. Overall, not the strongest draft, or free agency period, that the Eagles could have achieved.

Offense An injury shortened season saw RB Jason Foster (drafted 1.4 in 2013) only reach 788 yards, though he did manage this with a franchise record of 4.58 yards per carry. Foster has the potential for a breakout season in his sophomore year, though this will be down to the play of an offensive line unit that allowed a team record 33 sacks. Although his QB rating dipped from the previous year, Frankie Markovich had a solid season with 3559 yards passing. He’ll be hoping that Foster can deliver an improved running threat to deter the pass rush. The offensive line unit is unchanged and unspectacular, though there is some young talent which will continue to develop. FB Schneiderheinze will block for Foster in the backfield, while TE Renaldo Drake is a good 3rd down target for Markovich. FL Bubba Marshak draws a lot of the coverage and saw a dip in his numbers last season, 5th round rookie Lawrence Tripplehorn developed nicely and started opposite him but will never stretch a defense. Hopefully the deep threat will come from Edward Ohle, although his TD catches dropped from 10 to 5 in 2013.

Defense Better news here, where DT Rickey Warren and MLB Keith

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Jones both had a pro bowl season. Jones is amongst the elite linebackers in the league, and broke his own team record with 127 tackles. Warren led the defensive unit with 8 sacks. The addition of Kevin Shelton provides a very solid spine. Around them, Neil Strand bookends the right end of the line and is a monster against the run. Jerome McDougle will start at Left End, but age is catching up with him. Wade Mackie is in a 3 way battle for the other starting job at Tackle, but whoever wins it will be the weak link. Derrick O.Johnson will return on the strong side at LB, with Marvin Shields starting on the weak side. The secondary is one player away from being amongst the league’s best with CB Ben Freeman and SS Tommie Lane coming into their own as RDFL starters. Marc Perez will start as the other CB, but fans are hoping that Shelton’s arrival should see someone record more than 2 INTs a season.

Special Teams K Phil Dawson is accurate but has always lacked the leg strength for long distance kicking. 3rd year P Benjamin Glendenning is not looking like he will justify his 4th round selection. Bubba Marshak is a threat on any punt return as his 16.0 yard average (and 1 TD) from last season shows. Freeman and Tripplehorn will likely fulfil kick returning duties again.

Verdict The Eagles are in a tough division, and the selection of Shelton aside, there aren’t enough new faces to suggest a season anywhere other than at the bottom. There was cap room available for some free agency acquisitions, but that never happened and at this point the draft doesn’t look like it will provide much. But if Foster can run the ball and stay healthy and Marshak evade all of the coverage, an improving defensive unit could keep them close.

NFC North

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Minnesota Vikings 2013 Record: 10-6 Scored 383 (14) Against 348 (10)

Total Offence 336.2 (21) Pass 239.7 (19) Rush 104.7 (23) Total Defence 361.1 (20) Pass 256.6 (20) Rush 113.9 (18th)

Last Season The Minnesota Vikings finished the 2013 season as the NFC North Division Champions with a 10-6 record. A much improved Vikings team improved from a 6-10 record. Led by QB Percy Ayodele who had a career year. In the playoffs they enjoyed a Wild Card victory over the Washington Redskins only to be sent home by the Seattle Seahawks who went on to win the RDFL Bowl. So where do the Vikings go from here? What kind of season does 2014 have for them. We take a look at the Vikings chances in 2014.

Off-season Retirements T Trey Darilek S Mike Green

The Vikings lose two Quality starters in both Darilek and Green, the good news for the Vikings is at Safety they have Witt and Lindsay ready to compete for that starting spot. On the retirement of Darilek this becomes a bigger loss as this being the most important position on the line, they lose one of the better at his position. The franchise will look to 2nd year tackle Adrian Freitas to fill the void.

Staff Hiring A busy Hiring stage for the Vikings saw them bring in three new faces. The biggest addition was new Head Coach Kenneth McDade, out of favor in New England after 6 years as Head Coach of the Patriots he made the playoffs on just one occasion. What the Vikings like about this guy is he will bring a great deal

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of motivation and discipline to a team that is very young.

Also added to the fold here was Offensive Coordinator Malcolm Lyle, a surprise addition by the franchise as this is his first Coordinator job in the RDFL. One would have thought some experience would be needed here to handle a young but very good offense. The jury is out on this guy. To finish the Staff Hiring stage for the Vikings was the addition of Lead Scout Josh Reid. This guy is good at scouting Running Backs and without a premier player at this position i am sure his talents at scouting this position will be put to good use.

FREE AGENCY New Additions - A fairly quite period for the Vikings as they did not make any big signings. C Bryant Rotruck 47/47 G George Mantle 39/39 SE Frankie Hanks 49/49 P Hunter Smith 42/42 The Rotruck signing at Center was a surprise here. Yes Hardwick is closing in on retirement but they still had 2nd year man Schultz waiting in the wing to take over. Most notable signing was SE Frankie Hanks who will give Ayodele another weapon to throw to. He will certainly be the #3 receiver behind Williams and Vogel.

2014 RDFL DRAFT 2.6 RB Shane Grewal 38/48 2.12 FS Earnest Walton 32/56 2.23 C Mo Cochrane 29/63 2.25 LCB Keith Kersey 31/50 3.24 SILB Jeff Glover 30/59 4.23 WILB Danny O'Neill 20/50 5.24 FS Ron Scheffer 17/49 6.23 SE Jessie Burns 22/46 7.24 FS Ray Chapman 20/42

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With a number of 2nd round picks available to them, the Vikings had a great opportunity to fill some much needed holes. No surprise was the first player chosen was a Running Back. Shane Grewal looks to be a good third down back and nothing more. FS Earnest Walton looks to be a very good pick and will certainly get the opportunity to compete for a starting job. LCB Keith Kersey looks to be a very good pick up to and will slot in right away as the Nickel corner on this defense. With the 3-4 looking to be Defense of choice in Minnesota the Vikings also added a couple of Linebackers to the roster in the draft. Third Round pick Jeff Glover looks to be a decent player and will probably end up being one of their better Linebackers against the run.

Offense This Offense will once again be a pass first run second offense. They are built to pass the ball. The leader on this offense is without doubt QB Percy Ayodele, he enters his 3rd season as the Vikings Quarterback and his 7th season in the RDFL. Last season was the best season of his career to date and i see no reason to believe he won't get better this season. He has very good receivers in Williams and Vogel but he will need to get the running game more involved to be a threat in the playoffs. Running Back Wade "BIG" Money did a very good job in this offense last season and will be the go to guy on the ground again this season. The Vikings need him to have another season like he did last year for the Vikings to repeat as Division Champions, i do feel that this will be the key to their season. A worry for the Vikings is the retirement of Darilek at Left Tackle, 2nd year tackle Freitas will be the starter and a lot of pressure is on his shoulders to protect the QB.

Defense The big names on this Defense are DE Toby Wynn and CB B.J. MacClelland. I like this Defense and i believe it underperformed last season and expect this unit to be much improved this

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season. Cornerback MacClelland is in his 2nd year and looks to be a great Corner. Alongside him is Marcus Whiting who love to play M2M against receivers and also sit in the Zone. I think they will be tough to pass against this season and the pass rush ability of Toby Wynn will only help this talented secondary even more. With the Vikings running the 3-4 the NT position is the key to success here, while he may not get a lot of notoriety NT Franz is a monster against the run and is well suited for this type of defense. He has only started 11 games in his 8 year career but feel we will see a breakout year from Franz. At Linebacker they have some talent too. I like SILB Fink who is a big part of this run defense and with him and Franz in the middle this team will be tough to run on up the middle. This unit also gives them great pass rush ability in WLB Darnell Lester and SLB Curtis Lindros. If this Defense can play to its talent i think they could go further in the playoffs than they did last season.

Verdict I think the NFC North is between the Vikings and the Packers. I like the Vikings to repeat as Division Champions but it won't be easy with a much improved Packers team knocking on the door. I think the key to a successful season for the Vikings is Wade Money has to have the kind of season he had last year and the Defense needs to step up and play to its talent level and this team could go deep in the playoffs. Prediction = 11-5

Green Bay Packers2013 Record: 8-8 Scored 318 (26) Against 333(5)

Total Offence 344.6 (19) Pass 252.3 (15) Rush 102.1 (26) Total Defence 319.1 (5) Pass 233.1 (10) Rush 101.9 (7)

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Off-season The Packers signed a new OC as Abraham moved over from Minnesota while DC Elliot left Carolina for his role in what was to prove to be a quite offseason, 7 players signed new contracts while TE Hawkins and FB Wayne also resigned. The was one big trade as Green Bay sent their 2.18 pick to Denver in order to obtain WR Tripodi. There were few draft picks and none high, the first selection was taken in the 4th round and was used on TE Maloney, however 7th round TE Marsh looks to be the best prospect added in the draft.

Offense Paul England is the undisputed starter in Green Bay and he has improved year on year throwing over 4000 yards last time out. If there is an issue it is he still throws too many interceptions. In Hayes he has one of the top WR’s in the game and he’s only going to start his 2nd season this time out, if Tripodi can make it a double threat then the Packers could be in for good times this season. Former early first round pick Prescott has disappointed but will make a solid 3rd WR in those sets. The running game is led by Germaine, he is a solid back who can make the most of blocks as he follows FB Minton into holes. The TE job is up for grabs as Smith is the best current player but Garcia has more upside as do rookies Maloney and Marsh. The OL will see Tate starting at C as rookie Bergman learns the ropes, Steinbach is a top draw guard and Hickman is expected to start on the other side. Brown is a lock at LT while Mills will get the nod at RT.

Defense Green Bay have concentrated on getting the key players in place for a good defense with Vandeginste and Pollack at DE to apply pressure and then Giles and Mastromonaco at CB to keep the WR’s quiet. That isn’t all of the quality but it’s a great start, NT Perry completes a quality DL while Rasmussen as a nickel CB could start in many cities. The Packers have a more than decent LB Corp. as Fincher and Castillo man the middle with Rose and

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Gretzky outside. If there is a weakness on this side of the ball then safety is the place to look with Crosby slated to start at SS and it up for grabs at FS, rookie Sanks looks the best prospect but he is raw so expect Boulware and Martin to battle that out during preseason.

Special Teams Hammond and Holliman have the punting and kicking roles tied down, while Tripodi will probably return punts, CB Giles is the best bringing Kick=offs back but perhaps back-up CB Roberts may do both jobs.

Verdict Green Bay is poised to make major moves to reach the playoffs, all the ingredients are in place, a solid QB with excellent receivers, a good running game and great defense. If the coaching staff can get the right game plan in place then the Packers should be looking at a postseason run.

Chicago Bears2013 Record: 7-9 Scored 400 (12) Against 362 (14T)

Total Offence 389.8 (4) Pass 287.3 (7) Rush 116.3 (12) Total Defence 316.3 (3) Pass 216.3 (3) Rush 109.9 (12)

Off-season In some cases your looking at a few new faces who have joined the ranks of an established team and seeing what impact they can have on the team. With a team that ranked 4th on offence and 3rd on defense from a yardage point of view you’d think that would be the case. Well that’s not quite the case, at least that’s the option of those who have watched 25 new faces arrive in Chicago. Yes indeed this is a rebuild in its fullest sense, and 15 rookies are on that squad with just two places still needing

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trimming prior to the opener. Three first rounder are among the line up but are they the big names you’d expect? Well it was about getting a lot of potentially good players in as opposed to a handful of pro-bowlers, at least that’s how it seems at this stage. Of course the bears do hold 4 first round picks now next year, so expect those names to appear next year maybe.

Offense The Bears had put a lot on the line to bring in Mike Newman with the 2nd overall pick of the 2020 draft. 5117 yards in 4 years seems like a pretty good return really, of course the only issue was that Newman proved not to be the final piece of the jigsaw, but more a key picture part that was acquired by maybe swapping away some bits you weren’t sure you needed, but then realised you maybe did!!! The Lions came in hoping he will be the final part of there jigsaw and that led to the big rebuild. Veteran Drew Brees is one key piece that remains. He will start his 10th season for the Bears and has nearly 35000 yards to his name, 4th on the all time list, 276 TD’s, 2nd on the all time list, just two behind Leftwich, and just 138 interceptions. It’s hard to see at this stage who will step up to take over from Newman, so it looks like Mark Bradley will get plenty of opportunities to head for his 8th consecutive 1000 receiving yards season, while rookie George Kariger looks an interesting prospect in his rookie year. The line retains many of last years starters along with a host of new rookie talent. Eric Crummey will set an example to many and the experience of these guys will help the rookies develop and protect Brees in the process. Glenn Vann is the likely exception as the RT will start from day one and looks a solid if unspectacular pick at the end of the 1st.

Defense n the line Brady Sterling will be asked to step up after 3 seasons of slow development with San Diego, since being picked up with the 9th picks of the 2nd round in 2011. He’s likely to be

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given more of an opportunity here and is the key to the line really at this stage, especially in terms of mastering any pass rush. The biggest name on defence appears to be safety Tyrus Lake who has developed impressively from his selection in the middle of the 2nd two seasons back. He’s started every game since then and had 5 picks last year as well as being a great run stuffer. A lot of the rest of the team will likely take time to gel together but there are a number of areas where there is some potential for breakouts. Eric Moyad at the other safety spot will be looking to justify his first round selection for starters.

Special Teams Gary Bensen heads into his 4th season and is struggling to average 40 yards per attempt so his days could well be numbered if he can’t step up soon. He could get plenty of opportunities this year to try and keep his spot but the pressure will certainly be there. Place kicker Jeffries was selected in the 3rd round and looks like he’ll be a mainstay of the league for many a season to come. You can probably expect rookie Kariger to be given a chance at returning kicks and it’s possible he could set the field alight given a bit of useful blocking at times, certainly one to watch.

Verdict With Newman gone the offence now really falls on the shoulders of Brees, there are of course few better equipped to deal with that pressure than the veteran so they can still upset a few. The lack of a running game is a concern and will probably be addressed with one of those 4 draft picks that are held in next years first round. The rebuild has been massive and has bought in a lot of youth to the franchise. It’s unlikely you’d see a playoff team emerge from that in the first season but it does build a very solid foundation for the future.

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Detroit Lions 2013 Record: 5-10-1 Scored 313 (28th) Against 387 (21T)

Total Offence 289.0 (31) Pass 171.9 (32) Rush 129.5 (5) Total Defence 362.4 (21) Pass 252.4 (17) Rush 123.8 (27)

Off-season The Lions were busy trading during the offseason as the GM decided to make his mark. The biggest trade was the first one and was THE blockbuster trade of the year as Detroit sent picks 1.8, 1.28, 3.26 and 1st and 3rd round picks next year to Chicago in exchange for RB Mike Newman. Detroit did sent players out as MLB Szilter went to Miami for a 3rd round pick, while DE Udeze also left town as he headed for Houston in exchange for 2nd, 4th and 5th round picks. During preseason FL Blake arrived from Tampa for a 2nd round pick next year. The Lions added some decent free agent such as CB Rivers while a number of players re-signed. In the draft DE Vilma and DT Lum were selected in the 2nd round, SE Cole and CB Peters in the 3rd while 4th round RG Rhett was a real value pick.

Offense It is time for QB Jaeger to prove that he was worth the 2nd overall pick back in 2011, and this season with RB Newman to carry the load defenses will not be able to sit back in pass coverage. FB Green will lead the way as Newman looks for the OL led by LT Flannery to create hole. RT Gallery and LG Graham are very good players however the Lions will need rookie RG Rhett to play and Reed is a worry at C. The additon of Blake at WR gives Jaeger one quality target with Hayes slotted to play at FL. Cleevely and Jells ensure the Lions have quality at TE and can use lots of two TE sets but it will be the play of Newman that will establish whether the Lions are ready to make a major splash.

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Defense Here is where the trouble starts for Detroit, as the highest rated players is SLB Medlin and he is only average. DE Vilma will probably start at DE as he has good upside, the question is whether Green or rookie Nutile will get the spot on the other side. Inside DT Rayburn is ok now and has some potential while 3 rookies battle for the other starting job. Look for Lum to get an opportunity as he has more potential though Griffith is probably the better player now. Medlin will start at SLB, while Lane should start on the weak side. However rookies Cash and Clemons will be looking for playing time and Boeck is expected to start at MLB. Rivers should start at CB with rookie Peters, Pool will get the nod at FS while SS should be manned by Rhodes

Special Teams Mayberry will be the kicker while rookie Ponko has secured the punting job. Blake may well return kick-offs until Sly returns from injury however if the Lions don’t want to risk their top receiver then Cole should be given the opportunity to shine. CB Peters is the punt return man again until Sly is back.

Verdict The offense should be able to move the ball especially on the ground. The worry is there are some holes in the OL and when Jaeger has to pass there is no depth to the receiving corp. Defensively there is a question how this team will be able to stop anyone moving the ball, so it may come down to having to win shootouts if the Lions are to win games. Major defensive improvements are needed before the playoffs become a reality.

AFC

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AFC West

San Diego Chargers2013 record: 8-8 Scored: 438pts (6) Against: 493pts (32)

Total Offense: 387.8 (6) Pass: 309.3 (1) Rush: 91.6 (29)Total Defense: 383.4 (31) Pass: 250.9 (16) Rush: 140.4 (32)

Off-Season:The Chargers had a mixed season last year squeezing out an 8-8 record and becoming the weakest division winners in the league.As the stats show, their problem wasn’t scoring points but preventing other teams doing so. A really high octane offense was cancelled out by a poorly performing defense.New rookie Head Coach Artie Ferguson will no doubt have studied the team’s efforts last season in a bid to push the franchise on to a winning record next year.

San Diego did not lose any players to retirement and only lost a couple of back-ups to free agency so their roster retains it’s foundation.Their biggest FA addition was CB Cole Newman who started for Denver last year, and he should prove a useful addition.There was a flurry of trade activity as the Bolts brought in a handful of new linebackers from Chicago and Dallas.Long time Bears starting ILB Teddy Lehman comes in to seriously improve the middle of the D whilst Chicago team-mate SLB Matt McCoy also transferred and is a productive player. Both are veteran players heading into double figures in season played but will undoubtedly boost San Diego’s defense.

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They are joined by ex Dallas pass rush specialist, WLB Glen Krakowski, who enters his second year in the league.Young back-up OC Mike Blanchard also came in from St Louis but perhaps the Charger’s biggest trade move was for Denver receiver Thurman Cox.

In the draft, the Bolts 1st round pick was wide receiver Amos Chung who is raw and needs some polishing but should become a very productive weapon for the Chargers.The rest of their draft was used to pick up some depth on the O-line and D-line.

Offense:The Chargers possess one of the best young quarterbacks in the league.In two and a half years as the starter, 4th year passer Tyrus Garrison has never been lower than 103 rated on the year.The 2011 no1 pick has all of the necessary skills in abundance and plays confident, precision football.His new weapons Thurman Cox and Amos Chung will complement Mitchell Green perfectly and this group of receivers can seriously hurt a team.TE Corwin Brayshaw is also a good short range option.The problem for San Diego isn’t so much being able to pass, as being able to refrain from passing too much - last season the team passed almost twice as much as they ran.RB Rick Mills played solidly last year and despite some intelligent running, he is not what you’d call a dangerous back who can worry defenses.It remains to be seen if Mills can increase his production to allow the team to mix up the strategy more. A new RB must be a high priority in the next draft or two.The O-line is very good, being led by serial All-Pro LT Darrrell McCollum.

Defense:

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The defense was terribly leaky in 2013 and a lot of that was down to a complete inability to stop the run.San Diego has tried to inject some difference makers into the unit by over hauling the linebacking corps.The plan seems to be to take the pressure off bulwarks DE Flannery and DT Babineaux and there is no reason why they should not benefit from a more solid group behind them.New LB’s McCoy and Lehman in particular provide a massive boost, although they may only have a season or two left at the top level.The Bolts front 7 looks improved and should be a lot tougher this year.There is some good young talent in the secondary.CB’s Ken Hinsley is the star and is a top level player but the rest of the group are fine players too. Corner Robert Hastings and safeties Butler and Tatum are nice looking prospects.There is no reason why this unit shouldn’t develop into one of the better secondaries around and it’s clear that recent drafts have invested well in this area.FA Cole Newman further improves the squad and he will play nickel.

Special Teams:Donnie Jones suffers from an under strength leg but is a reasonable punter who uses technique to hang the ball up well.Kicker Mike Nugent can be a little inconsistent but has the skills needed. He will want to focus more better this season.Several players can run back kicks or punts, however new guy Thurman Cox may well get the nod as Mitchell Green should be saved for receiving duties. He is a dangerous returner.

Verdict:This is a talented roster on the whole.Offensively, they need better balance but whether Mills is up to the job remains to be seen.The pass attack remains stinging.

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It will be interesting to see how much the new LB’s can stiffen things against the run. If the D can play up to it’s talent levels then expect an improvement on the Chargers’ 8-8 record of last year.In a division with no really dominant team, San Diego might just be about to stamp some authority in there. They are capable of taking the division and may climb up to a 10-6 record.

Kansas City Chiefs 2013 Record: 8-8 Scored 382 (15T) Against 367 (16T) Total Offence 350.5 (18th) Pass 238.0 (21) Rush 125.0 (6T) Total Defence 346.6 (14) Pass 256.4 (19) Rush 103.3 (8th)

Off-season The Chiefs made their big move last offseason with the trade of long time standout QB Byron Leftwich to the Bengals. Kyle Aarhus filled in admirably with 30 TD passes in 2013, but the KC management chose to move for former Falcons and Rams QB, and #1 pick in 2008, Ernest Brewer. Brewer has had an unspectacular career so far, but maybe the talented Chiefs have the supporting cast he needs to shine. Other than Brewer the only additions have been rookies led by 1.3 pick RB Britt pride who looks good and will start from snap one. With a big money contract the Chiefs will hope that he gives the balance that is needed for their offence. The Chiefs also added DE Bryce Glenn in the first round who looks like he could develop but will need a season or two.

Offense The Chiefs are pretty well balanced without being spectacular at any position. Brewer will be the QB, Pride the RB, supported by the sure hands of 2nd year WR Oscar Hopkins, who will want to

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improve on a healthy 50 catches and 4 TDs in his rookie year, and big play WR Scott Beyer who only had 30 catches but they were at 16.5 yards a time!! The O line is led by future HoF LT Scott Rinehart (not to be confused with Judge Reinholt of Beverly Hills Cop fame!). Last year KC ranked 7th in rush offense but a disappointing 21st in passing – the latter will have to be improved on!

Defense The Chiefs have a pretty decent defense, led by their strong D-Line. They have two very good DTs in Murray and Castillo, and 2nd year DE Harry Oskolkolf will be a big contributor this season. The only real weakness is the secondary where they are a bit light on talent and ageing which is not a good trait in a pass heavy league. This was borne out last season where KC finished top ten against the run but middle of the pack against the pass.

Verdict 2013 was the first year since 2008 that the Chiefs didn’t win the AFC West, so they will be looking for a swift return to the playoffs and we’ll back them to do that

Denver Broncos 2013 Record: 7-9 Scored 369 (19T1) Against 408 (24) Total Offence 352.5 (17) Pass 253.4 (14) Rush 109.4 (16) Total Defence 316.4 (4) Pass 226.2 (8th) Rush 103.4 (9)

Off-season Has there been an off-season like it? Well the Broncos have 53 players on there roster at the end of pre-season and of those just 17 were with the team last season. So yes 36 new players have arrived in Denver and 19 of those are rookies. Oh and of the 17

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players who remain, 7 of them have been in the league for 2 seasons or less. So when it comes to analysing the Broncos off-season just where do you start? The two biggest rookie names are 8th overall pick CB Peter Bernard and 11th overall pick DT Oscar Baker, who look set to be key players on defense for many seasons to come. To summarise if you’re a coach who says your rebuilding by adding a few people here and there then take a look at Denver, a rebuild is just that

Offense The offence is led by QB Marvin Wolf, after 6 year Wolf has started every game he’s been fit and able to for the Broncos. He’s thrown 123 TD’s in that time and 63 INT’s, whilst recording a healthy rating of 91.6 along the way. 16,062 yards is no mean feat either when you look at the rest of the team around him at times. He will surely lead the offence again as Jim Maxwell, although looking a solid backup, doesn’t look a threat to Wolf at this stage. The team struggled to run the ball last year and this year it looks likely that rookie Jim Scwartz will get a chance to share the load with 3rd year pro Sean Lecuona, both are young and will be mentored along the way so could develop into a useful pairing. At wideout 2nd year man Thomas Czurylo will get to start every game this year, after being eased into the system last year and looks a great weapon for the offence, the rest of the passing attach though will require a group of average receivers and tight ends to step up to take advantage of the likely double team Czurylo will attract. The line is anchored by RG Roman Liakos and in an interesting move arguably the least skilled player to hit an RDFL OL, Oliver Reed is on hand to provide some leadership to the line and it does appear to be a strong group. It needs a lot of time to develop though and it looks as like Wolf will have his work cut out while the players develop in front of him.

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The defense was great at stopping yards last year, just not so hot at stopping the points. Needless to say it’s had a complete revamp and 4 of the 8 lineman are rookies. Baker looks a solid addition at DT and there is plenty of hope at other positions, no mentors though for this group and they are going to have to learn quick in this league to stand a chance. Behind them Lamont Grier was picked up in the 2nd round and he looks a good addition at WLB, the rest of the LB’s though need to work together again as a unit to stand a chance. Behind them you have to think the secondary will be busy CB Bernard will sure find out how his skills match the league in a hurry. A little more experience in this unit but it’s hard to pick out too many stars outside of Bernard and potentially 5th round steal Toby Numbers at safety.

Special Teams The longest serving player on the team is Punter Mark Alston, well let’s put it this way if you want to stay busy then it looks like a good year to stay with the team, he’s a reliable kicker who will getting plenty of field time this season. Rookie Danny Sanders looks to have an awesome leg and you get the feeling he’ll be used at any opportunity when the Broncos are anywhere within site of the posts. The return game will be a case of looking for a breakout from the rookies as no obvious name shoots forward prior to the kickoff.

Verdict The Broncos are a see-saw team, making and missing the playoffs in alternate years over the past 8 seasons, and for those interested the see-saw swings towards making the playoffs this year. It would be a brave team that bet on them though in this incarnation. In two or three seasons it may be a different story but for the time being it’s a case of this team learning its trade and trying to develop into a tidy close nit unit that can challenge in future seasons.

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Los Angeles Raiders 2013 Record: 5-11 Scored 382 (15T) Against 411 (25T)

Total Offence 360.9 (13) Pass 267.5 (10) Rush 105.6 (21) Total Defence 368.5 (25) Pass 263.3 (26) Rush 116.9 (21)

Off-season Offensive co-ordinator Tyrell Collier was fired in the offseason which to some was a surprise as in general the Raiders problems have been when they don't have the ball. Even more peculiar was the signing of Lions Head Coach to replace him. Donald Sanders was fired after years of poor offensive production and although Sanders is renowned as a QB guru, established starter Alex Smith has little left to learn.

In playing personnel moves the main loss to free agency was RB Cedric Benson. Benson's productivity dropped off in 2013 and he was allowed to leave. He will be replaced by 1st round pick Danny Faber. Faber looks RDFL ready and although he wont make many miss he will run over his fair share.

Elsewhere the Offensive line will see 2 starters move on as RG Guthrie and LT Butler were also allowed to leave. On Defense starting CB Strait and LB Fox were also allowed to leave. None of these are irreplaceable. Guthrie is immediatley upgraded by rookie Custer, while another rookie 3rd rounder Zubillage shoud start at LT.

Offense In true Al Davis style, the Raiders like to air the ball deep and often. Smith threw the ball over 600 times for the first time in his career with career highs in yards (4280) and TDs (31). Star wideout Harding is the main target. Harding a rookie last year is

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a genuine star WR and the Raiders have high hopes that he can step up another level this year. When Harding is covered, FB Grier was the main check off guy and he caught 50 passes. he was a safe pair of hands however doubts linger as to whether he will recover from a knee injury sustained at the end of last season and the Raiders lack of depth may be exposed here.

The line is built for a running game with Collett and Money being powerful unsophisticated blockers who can move Defensive lineman about but struggle with speedy rushers. Thankfully Smith has a quick release but the 90 hurries allowed by the line were the 3rd most in the league and proof of the problems that exist in pass blocking. Custer should undoubtedly improve the line and rookie Faber will be on many fantasy draft lists as the running game looks set for a boost in 2014.

Defense The first thing the Raiders must sort out is what defensive formation they intend to play. A traditional 3-4 team, they suddenly find themselves with a surplus of NT following the emergence of rookie Roman Shepherd in preseason. It may be that underperforming DT Horton finds himself surplus to needs behind lynchpin NT Cody. Alternatively they may look to move to a 43 to take account of this sudden luxury of riches in the middle of the line. The DEs are solid but unspectacular, Marquise Hill led the team with 7.5 sacks but is coming to the end of his career while last year's starter Broemer is likely to be replaced by Devin Marais after a disappointing season.

The Raiders have 1 big problem on Defense and that is forcing turnovers. They ranked last in the league in this category and the secondary which had just 3 interceptions all season must take much of the blame. The team gave up more bombs than any other team and fans must question why, with 2 first round picks, this wasn't addressed in the off season. All the same pieces are back and they simply dont have the corners to compete with the souped up offenses that operate in RDFL.

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Special Teams The Raiders have solid special teams in most aspects except Kick return coverage where they ranked dead last. Humphries is a quality field goal kicker, deadly from inside 40 yards but his kick offs lack distance and put pressure on the coverage team. WR Spencer handles return duties and has 8 career return TDs.

Verdict The Raiders took some strides forward in the draft and improved both the line and the rushing game. But it is the Defense where they traditionally have problems particularly in the secondary and these problems have not been solved. Indeed the signings on the D have in some respects muddied the water and there may be a lack of balance in their strengths on the defensive side of the ball. Look for lots of points in Raider games this year but no improvement in wins. Prediction 5-11

AFC South

Indianapolis Colts2013 record: 12-4 Scored: 423pts (8) Against: 360pts (13)

Total Offense: 388.2 (5) Pass: 257.3 (13) Rush: 137.2 (2)Total Defense: 362.6 (22) Pass: 275.2 (30) Rush: 97.6 (5)

Off-Season:

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2013 could have been a tough year for the Colts as they were rocked by the resignation of long term GM MartinD part way through the season.However, new GM Attyla came in and steadied the boat to great effect with Indy claiming the division after putting up an impressive 12 wins. Their year culminated in an enjoyable run all the way to the RealBowl.They may have lost the finale to a clinical Seahawks outfit but there is no doubt that the Colts were one of the most powerful teams in 2013.

The big question of course is can they duplicate that success again and maybe go one step further in 2014?

Well, there were no retirements for the team and none of their star players were lost to free agency, so essentially the roster still has the same foundation of talent.Some of last years rookies will have benefited from a first full season in the pros and in fact a couple of the first year guys actually started in RealBowl IX.Guys like FS Brant Kirkland, RB Bart Wayne and SE J.B Willis are all now at, or very near, 100% development and will contribute immensely to the team in the forthcoming year.

If anything the roster was strengthened as a new rookie class joins the franchise and in general Indianapolis had a solid draft despite picking at the tail end.TE Chester Cogswell looks good enough to start and WR Craighead will score some points whilst several other rookies will also contribute.

In terms of new veterans on the team, Indy made a couple of moves.CB Kelvin Hayden was inked to a 3yr deal after leaving the Broncos and he should challenge for a starting role after a decent last year in Denver.

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Ex-Falcon SLB Matt Simoneau was also signed to a 3yr deal and although he didn’t start for Atlanta last time out, he has starting experience and further improves a good linebacking corps.

Offense:Rookie RB Bart Wayne was a revelation last season and ended up with over 1300yds at a whopping 5.47 average per carry and he was the reason why the Colts ranked 2nd in rush attack.However, don’t imagine this outfit are one dimensional.QB ‘Big’ Ben Roethlisberger is an accomplished and wily veteran with talent and a host of individual awards.He can play and he has the weapons to hurt teams.SE Willis is a dangerous player out of the slot and is odds on to follow up his excellent rookie production with his first 1000yds receiving season this year.Throw in dependable FL Jimmy Carlisle, speed freak Billy Craighead and new TE Cogswell and it’s clear that the pass attack can draw blood too.

The secret of this offense is it’s balance.The Colts can move the ball and score on the ground or through the air.Defenses are kept off balance and are unable to key on any single weapon.Indianapolis also have a nice young offensive line who can run or pass block effectively as a group.There really are no glaring weaknesses on the offense which bodes well for the new campaign.

Defense:Last year the D was ranked well against the run but not so well versus the pass.That is slightly misleading as teams were often chasing the Colts during games.Indianapolis play a 3-4 front and have talent in the trenches.DE Bailey and NT Hotchkiss are both very good players.

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Rookies Hudson and Legg may fight it out for the final starting spot.As mentioned, the linebacking corps is a good unit and able to support the big guys in both run defense and QB pressure.WLB McKinzie registered 5 sacks last time around and new recruit Simoneau also looks able to go after the passer.As a whole the front 7 play well, possibly only missing a pure pass rushing menace.Into the secondary and the talent levels remain good.All of the three top corners are solid players who are reliable rather than excellent.The star of the unit is 2nd year FS Brant Kirkland who grabbed 5 picks last season.SS Gomez is a big, hard hitting and physical player who focuses on tackling rather than the big play although he can cover receivers.

Special Teams:Punter Bauman has a powerful leg but is deficient in hang time and directional punting whilst Kicker Cornell Farr was traded in from Carolina for his accuracy.Farr looks likely to beat out long time Colts kicker Kris Brown whose accuracy and range is suffering as he enters his 16th year.The KO return game is in the hands of Willis who is an excellent returner and it’s got to be just a matter of time before he takes one back to the house (he already has a PR TD).RB Wayne will deputise.The PR squad will probably rely on SE Antonio Roberts though Willis will get his chance again.In all, the special teams are one of the better crews in the league.

Verdict:The Colts are a good looking franchise with a talented and balanced roster on both sides of the ball.There are no glaring weaknesses and another division title is certainly achievable.

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The issue for the Colts, as always, is the strength of the AC South.The division has always been a tough one with rivals always capable of taking games off the Colts.Divisional match-ups will be key but I see this division becoming a head to head with Houston as Jacksonville drop away.Indy might just beat out Houston to take the division again but it will be mighty close.Looking at an 11-5 record with some tricky non-divisional opponents.

Houston Texans:2013 record: 11-5 Scored: 441pts (5) Against: 345pts (9)

Total Offense: 329.1 (22) Pass: 207.4 (27) Rush: 131.3 (4)Total Defense: 368.6 (26) Pass: 258.3 (21) Rush: 117.3 (22)

Off-Season:Houston gave it a good go last year and at one point looked like they might have taken the division but they just missed out. They made a good playoff run before their nemesis the Colts beat them in the Conference Final.If the Texans are to advance to the big game they will need to find a way to beat Indianapolis.There seems to be a real feeling of optimism in Houston going into the new season, is this going to be their year?

The franshise lost a couple of back up types to retirement but nothing irreplaceable. Their biggest loss being back up corner Phil Buchanan.Unfortunately, the Texans had limited options in the draft (highest pick was a 6th rd) and had to rely on some late picks and free agency to restock.

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New Head Coach Frank Tyler resorted to trades to pull in reinforcements.He picked up DT Moore from Chicago, NT Verba from Denver, DE Udeze from Detroit and ILB Barrett Ruud from St Louis.Despite some of those being a little long in the tooth, they remain an effective group of quality defenders.Udeze and Ruud in particular will be top level players for another season or two.

As far as free agency went, there were no real losses and Houston managed to resign their biggest free agent, wideout Tyrone Calico.They held back on spending top dollar on anyone else, seeming to prefer the trade route.

Offense:Last season it was all about rookie RB Dan Hannegraf. He led the league in rushing and the team was without doubt an old fashioned power running team.He is one year older now, fully developed and quite capable of reproducing similar yardage again this year.He has a decent line to run behind, the star being OC Brandon Nedney, but Hannegraf’s success seems to have been down to his own talent and perhaps initially a little bit of the surprise factor.QB Dwayne Joseph did what was asked of him and he used his talent to the full recording a 90 rating and making over 3000yds passing.He isn’t the kind of QB to go out and win games on his own but he can spark when needed and manages the offense well.Sadowski and Ritschel are the deep threat and would probably rise to the occasion if used a little more. The team has a decent couple of back up receivers and some good TE’s.FB Howard Brandon is a beast and catches a lot of ball for a FB.If Houston wanted to pass more they have the talent to do so and perhaps there will be a little more balance in the coming season?

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Defense:If you have a power running game, you can win with a dominant defense and Houston have really gone all out to create one.Multiple trades have brought in some proven talent and the Texans are built to win now.They have one of the better DE tandems in the league with Udeze and Armstrong and they have upgraded their DT’s.Talented tradee Ruud joins Lance Peters in the middle of the linebacking corps. Peters is a great player and will be hoping he can avoid injury this year after losing both the 2012 and 2013 seasons to long term injuries.The other LB’s such as Himes can contribute although they are not top level guys.The secondary unit played above themselves last season.The star talent is CB Buddy McGregor but even he was outshone by CB Dexter Petruzziello who hauled in 9 picks despite missing the last 6 games of so of the season.FS Deion Dansby provides effective support to the corners and if this squad can reproduce their form of last year, then look out!This defense has had a makeover in the front. If the new guys can gell quickly and the DB’s play takeaway football again, this unit might carry the team on to the next level and a bowl trip.

Special Teams:Punter Moe Hammond will give decent service when the Texans need to punt.Kicker Neil Rackers didn’t miss a single kick of any type last year and made a jaw dropping 12 of 12 FG’s from 40+ yds.However, he is getting old and rookie kicker Bugallo came into training camp to provide some competition. It would be a major surprise though if Rackers lost his job.Several receivers can return kicks but Sadowski is the dangerman. Punt return duties may be shared around but FS Lofton is the most talented returner.

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A nice group on special teams.

Verdict:Houston have invested heavily in their team, bringing in some quality defensive reinforcements.They have a running game to be proud of and a QB who can hold it together, with some dangerous receivers.All the ingredients for a playoff run.They mean business and Indy will need to work hard to prevent the division title heading to Texas.It’s all gonna come down to the head to head.It will be close but I predict a 12-4 record for Houston as they claim their first ever division crown.

Jacksonville Jaguars:2013 record: 9-7 Scored: 377pts (18) Against: 410pts (25)

Total Offense: 374.6 (11) Pass: 301.1 (3) Rush: 84.3 (32)Total Defense: 381.6 (30) Pass: 259.2 (22) Rush: 131.1 (31)

Off-Season:The Jags started last season like a bat out of hell with 4 wins straight from the kick-off.However, their season petered out as they finished up losing 4 of their last 5 and their playoff hopes fizzled away in a tough division.Things aren’t likely to be much easier this time around and the challenge facing Jacksonville is how to energise the franchise in the face of impressive divisional opponents in the shape of Houston and Indy. The Jaguars only beat one of those rivals once last year and that was in a meaningless last week as the Colts rested players.

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A couple of backups retired and won’t be missed but the team was hurt when DE Richard Seymour called it a day which is why the team spent it’s first two picks in the draft on ends.The loss of back up DT Anttaj Hawthorne to the Jets in FA will also weaken the front line of defense.Another FA to leave was standout WR Mark Clayton who put up 1400yds in his one year with the Jags. He was allowed to leave for Baltimore but age is a factor and he no longer looks the player he was and represents some shrewd roster juggling by the Jags decision makers.Clayton was replaced when ex-Bronco wideout Kurt Tucker was signed in free agency (the Jags top signing), however he will not put up the same kind of numbers as Clayton managed.

In the draft, Jacksonville picked up some good if maybe unspectacular players.DE’s Dave Trigg and Vinny Randle will battle to replace Seymour with Trigg looking favorite at this stage. Trigg looks up to the job and Seymour may soon be forgotten.Jacksonville’s other rookie of real note was 3rd round draftee MLB Sherman Maloney who looks to be a future starter.In general terms, a relatively quiet off-season for the Jaguars who weren’t involved in any trade deals either (no GM).

Offense:Jacksonville have perhaps the best QB in the league in Aaron Rodgers and he is a regular 4000yd passer.The problem is the team have become too reliant on him and defenses know this.SE Ricky Parten may step up to fill Clayton’s shoes but in reality, the receiving corps is worse than last year.Whether that is an indicator that the Jags want to get away from the throw at all costs gameplan isn’t clear.Certainly without a productive Clayton, the Jags need to find a running game to complement Rodgers’ talent.Starting RB Matt McKnight has some skill and was just shy of 1000yds in 2013, but he is not a feature back. His ypc could do

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with being better and he will need to up his game if he is to be the answer. There is nobody behind him in the depth chart which might bite the Jags down the line.FB Andrew Mitchem can be a weapon in the short passing game.The O-line is middling with OC Willie Woodard being the pick of the bunch. This unit is getting old and will need reinforcing soon.Offensively, the team has been playing with one hand behind it’s back and despite his obvious ability, Rodger can’t carry this team to glory on his own.He needs help but as we enter pre-season it isn’t clear where that help will come from.

Defense:The front is anchored on DT’s Doug Gresham and Toby Tiessen. Gresham is strong and an effective tackle with Tiessen not far behind.The rest of the front 7 is good.DE Tapis was effective last year and the two rookies will contribute.Behind them are some talented and tough linebackers with SLB Monty Kaplan being one of the better LB’s around (5 FF’s last year).WLB Bubba Conley can also play, but the defense doesn’t use either of these guys particularly well. Kaplan especially should have much more production than he did in 2013 despite the forced fumbles and a couple of picks.The secondary has one or two nice players, FS Butch Karamanous is the fan’s favorite and the talent of the group. The corners are weak though and remain an area to be attacked.Defensively, there are the makings of a solid group if the Jags can grab a corner or two in the next few drafts.

Special Teams:Jacksonville’s punter Van Horn is poor but figures to get some work.

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The kicker is Hoying who had an okay season last year but may not be the long term answer.WR Ricky Parten has the responsibility for KO and Punt returns.He is effective at both and has 7 career KO return TD’s to indicate how dangerous he can be. Problem is can he keep returning kicks and punts and act as the team’s no1 receiver as well?

Verdict:Jacksonville suffered from malaise last year. They were too one dimensional and perversely probably would have benefited from losing more games and getting better draft picks.They have lost their top receiver, have not improved their running game and last year’s defense was non existent.Their rookies will help but won’t work miracles.Rodgers will always give their fans hope but with the added handicap of being without a GM, the immediate future looks bleak I feel.Expect Jacksonville to struggle in this division and they may even bottom out if Tennessee make strides.Predicted record 5-11.

Tennessee Titans:2013 record: 6-10 Scored: 329pts (25) Against: 376pts (19)

Total Offense: 325.9 (25) Pass: 221.4 (25) Rush: 112.1 (15)Total Defense: 338.8 (12) Pass: 248.5 (15) Rush: 98.5 (6)

Off-Season:The Titans struggled in a good division last season as they entered a rebuilding phase.

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They lost starting OG Nick Kaczur to retirement and he will leave a hole to fill.They didn’t lose any star players to FA and held a handful of high draft picks going into the 2014 draft with which to restock.One of their 1st round picks was traded to Cincinnati in return for a 2015 1st round pick and new starting DE Mack Garner.However, that still left plenty of picks with which to grab some rookie talent.OT Johnie Grassley was the Titan’s top draft selection and he will anchor the line whilst OG Stryzinski will fill Kaczur’s shoes.1st round pick WR Ron Hickman was their top skill player taken and Tennessee have invested a lot of faith in him to produce.CB Farley projects to be a useful addition whilst several other rookies (especially safeties) look capable of helping out.The Titans’ top vet signing was OT Terry Ogden from San Diego. He didn’t start for the Bolts last year but he is young and looks capable of starting for Tennessee.2014 figures to be another season of rebuild but the Titans are going in the right direction.

Offense:Tennessee’s QB Phil Cavoretto had a solid year in 2013 with an 81 QB rating but he is middle of the road rather than talented and favours the short passing game. He did give up a lot of interceptions last year and may come under some pressure.He is an 8yr vet contracted for another couple of seasons and is effectively a caretaker until the Titans find their QB of the future.Whoever lines up under center has some decent receivers on hand, but they are not spectacular. The best prospect is young TE Harry Newsome who will be hoping to take over from mentor Randy Gibson this season.On the ground, RB Dennis Turner is a big, powerful runner who does the hard stuff well but is not explosive. He will get the

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carries again and may duplicate his 1000yd season of 2013 but he is a workhorse rather than a racehorse.He will be ably backed up by vet Marc Sampson.As discussed, the O-line has some new recruits and will be inexperienced together. However, they will view this season as one to build cohesion for the future.

Defense:The defensive front 7 is young and has some talent.New DE Mack Garner can be an effective starter and Marshall Freeman will want to build on a good rookie season.DT McCullum is nobody’s fool and there are a couple of good linebackers learning their trade behind the line in May and Scott.The front has a nice look to it and perhaps just needs one star player to lead the unit.The secondary is lagging a little behind the front, and with the best player being 12yr vet FS Eugene Wilson, the Titan’s will probably be looking to strengthen this area in the next draft.Like the offense, the defense is a sound crew with some young players developing into a solid bedrock but star talent will be needed.

Special Teams:Punter Godfrey is a reliable and well rounded specialist who has the job locked down.Kicker ‘Crawfish’ Krawczyk* is almost a sure thing from short/medium range but lacks real power. However, he is a very good PK and is also a valued member of the team.KR Walt Stratton can hurt you and will be taking them back again. He had 1TD last year. Rookie Herb Brewer may get a shot too.The PR role seems to be wide open with no obvious candidate.Not a bad special teams roster at all but there is a need at PR.

*Krawczyk has since been traded to Cincinnati

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Verdict:Tennessee have been successful in the past and know they are rebuilding in a tough division.Their fans will not be expecting much this season and along with the Jaguars it looks like a two horse race for the wooden spoon in the AC South.Figure a slight improvement to a 7-9 record or there abouts.

AFC East

Miami Dolphins2013 record: 13-3 Scored: 419pts (9) Against: 321pts (3)

Total Offense: 402.8 (1) Pass: 288.9 (6) Rush: 118.3 (11)Total Defense: 328.2 (7) Pass: 245.8 (14) Rush: 96.6 (4)

Off-Season:The Dolpins had a fine regular season in 2013, winning their division well, playing excellently on both sides of the ball.The team won all of their regular season road games and surprisingly their three loses all came at home, albeit against good opposition.Unfortunately, the team could not take their regular season form through into the playoffs, as they fell at the first hurdle going out (at home) to Houston.Fans will expect more of the same from Miami this season and will not accept another one and done in the post season.

No retirements or free agency departures meant the GM could concentrate on reinforcing the roster.The tactic wasn’t to spend in free agency with no notable FA’s coming in, but instead Miami went the trade route.

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They spent a 1st on vet RB Alfred Bradford from San Francisco and grabbed TE DeFelice from Denver. They also added defensive help in the form of Detroit tackling machine LB Szilter and young Dallas standout safety Ben Sanford.Clearly Miami are aiming to ensure they make a run into the playoffs this time round.

In the draft Miami’s best pick was used in the 2nd round to take QB Chuck Blair and a couple of useful looking rookies were added in the latter rounds.

Offense:QB Carson Palmer played as well as anyone in the league last year and should still be money in the bank this season.He isn’t getting any younger which is why Blair was drafted early on.FL Jim Kornbluth led the league in yards and with talented SE Matt Jones back after his serious leg injury, the receiving corps is in very good hands. There isn’t great depth behind those two but it is hoped ex-Bengal Marty Naslund can fill that role.TE Collins hauled in over 500yds of ball last year and is weapon.RB Marco Benson did his best in 2013 and provided a running game without being particularly efficient. He will back up new recruit Alfred Bradford as the ‘Phins look to improve out of the backfield. Bradford is a proven RB who put up great numbers in San Fran’ and he represents a big upgrade here.The O-line is mature and a very solid group.

Defense:Second year DE Kyle Buckner was eased into things last year but he is developing into a stud and big things are expected from him from now on. The other end Andre Raymond is a great pass rush specialist and together they represent a nightmare for opposing QB’s.

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Last season, the Dolphins shifted to a 3-4 front and NT Askew enjoyed the transition, having a very nice season. There are no problems up front.The linebackers are good to very good, without any one superstar in terms of pure talent. That being said, WLB Gino Hatcher was a revelation grabbing in excess of 10 sacks and making the All-Pro team.The secondary is reliable and competent, but could maybe make more plays and create more turnovers. Dolphins corners could only manage 1 pick between them last year.They’ll be hoping new safety Sanford can make some big plays.

Special Teams:Punter McCarty is solid but faces competition from 7th round pick Langer who looks capable of winning the job from him.Kicker Scobee keeps going and does the job well.Kornbluth is a speedy PR and gives his team excellent field position whilst Matt Jones is a very good dual return threat and will probably take back the kick-offs.

Verdict:Miami are a well run franchise with talent on the roster. They proved they are the real deal last year and surprised league pundits when they fell at the first in the post season.That had to hurt and the franchise has taken some sensible steps to try and prevent a repeat.Bradford represents a nice pick up and I expect Miami to carry on where they left off in the AC East.With another division crown likely, look for Miami to advance into the playoffs on the back of a 13-3 or 14-2 record.

Buffalo Bills2013 Record: 11-5 Scored 433 (7) Against 354 (12)

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Total Offence 353.8 (16) Pass 248.2 (16) Rush 119.4 (10) Total Defence 344.8 (13) Pass 261.4 (25) Rush 93.5 (2)

Off-season The Bills spent the early part of the offseason re-signing its own players or renegotiating contracts. QB Campbell and G Kuykendall signing big deals. In fact Buffalo failed to sign any new players until after the draft when DT’s Paukschus and Cajigal signed as free agents. It didn’t get any better in the draft as 1st round selection RT Stone proved to be a major bust during training camp. In the 2nd round WLB Stephenson proved to be a much better pick. However the best pick was in the 6th round as Lofton was taken as the future kicker

Offense Campbell is the beating heart of the Bills and fans will be hoping he can stay healthy as he has only played all 16 games once in the last 3 seasons. The fans and whole franchise will be hoping that Nelson recovers fro the MCL without losing too much, however Bradford is a more than decent alternative. FL Brown looks like he has lost a step but he has caught passes for over a 1000 yards the last two seasons. TE Money offers an excellent mid range option in the passing game while RB Bradley is excellent coming out of the backfield. The rushing duties may well fall on Bradley alone this season as Tong has never proven himself and Battle has lost more than a step. The OL boasts the best Guard pairing in the league as Biakabutuka and Kuykendall are both top draw. Walkley is a good C and Pollard has proven to be more than solid at RT. Lee will start at LT to round out the starting five.

Defense Last season the defense was the strength of the Bills with Tommie Harris at DT being the key when healthy. Hampton, Coker or Simmons will play alongside, whileBuffalo have Miller and Clements starting outside and Kramer a more than

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adequate back-up. Jefferies will start at OLB though which position will depend on who the Bills want to play alongside Zarate is likely to start while rookie Stephenson continues to develop, but it is a nice problem to have. Finch continues to man the MLB spot where he gets excellent assistance from SS Coleman. Davis is likely to start at FS and Frankhouser at CB. The other CB spot is up for grabs as Newman has hit the wall. Guthrie has more upside than the others but it is likely to be Christofi who starts on opening day.

Special Teams Houston is certain to be the teams punter while Janikowski should retain the kicker job. However rookie Lofton looks like the real deal so the question is whether Buffalo can keep two kickers on the roster this season before the expected retirement of Janikowski after this season. Brown should return kick-offs, however Tupa is a decent 2nd option. Nelson is a quality punt returner and it is hoped he can continue once recovered.

Verdict The Bills should continue to be competitive this season as they have a good OL and players behind it that can make plays. The defense is decent though there are holes that could be exploited. The issue is with a bust 1st round pick and the inability to sign free agents injuries can still play havoc and in the longer term the Bills may slip from being one of the better AFC teams.

New Jersey Jets 2013 Record: 6-10 Scored 293 (29) Against 332 (4)

Total Offence 313.4 (26) Pass 224.3 (23) Rush 104.8 (22) Total Defence 325.3 (6) Pass 225.3 (6) Rush 113.4 (17)

Off-season The Jets have been busy in the offseason adding 10 veterans to

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their roster, although all of these look like squad players. The Jets had the 9th pick in the draft and used it on highly rated North Carolina product Grady Rhodes. What this means for current MLB Morris Marshall – maybe a switch to a 3-4? A bargin in TE Middleton may have been found in the 3rd round, in fact there are a few players who should turn out to be useful additions for the Jets for some time to come. However, the jury is out currently on #22 pick QB Richard Sutter, who looks to be very raw – albeit that he will take over kick holding duties from day 1!

Offense New Jersey’s offense will rely on 3rd year RB Chuck Alfaro having another 1,000 yard season and the wily skills of veteran QB Matt Hasselbeck who has modest weapons at best. The O line is a strong unit which will help Alfaro find those holes.

Defense The Jets will struggle on defense because their secondary is weak, but they will look to compensate with the talent they have in the front 7, led by their new ILB partnership of Marshall and Rhodes.

Verdict It will be a struggle in New Jersey, not just because the Jets are under strength but because the Dolphins and Bills are so good. If they make .500 it will be an achievement.

New England Patriots 2013 Record: 5-11 Scored 363 (22T) Against 423 (28th)

Total Offence 354.4 (15) Pass 265.1 (12) Rush 106.9 (17) Total Defence 364.8 (23) Pass 260.9 (23) Rush 115.1 (19)

Off-Season

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A fairly quiet off season for the Pats with only two retirements (WR Drew Bennett and C Antoine Mineo). Head coach Johnny McIntyre looks an excellent choice and new defensive coordinator looks solid. Notable moves in free agency included bringing in veteran DE Tyler Brayton and SE Brandon Jones from Atlanta along with P Monty Crassweller. The draft looks to have been a good one for New England with FL Earl O'Neil, G Dominic Pritt and DT Courtney Aguilera looking the cream of the crop.

Offence Idolized QB Will Leskanic is entering his 6th year in the league and looks to be as solid as ever with Bob Moye a more than capable back up. Rookie FL O'Neil looks to be a great target and along with 7th year SE Lamont Garcia Leskanic has a couple of good outlets for his obvious talent but past these 2 receivers the rest of the receiving option look average with perhaps TE Kellen Winslow offering the next best option. The running game looks good with 3rd year bck Steve Duran leading the way with Diaz and Westbrook offering decent options but with no fullback on the roster it's uncertain who will be leding the way for Duran. Centre Troy Hudson was brought in from a trade with Chicago and will start as a replacement for the retired Mineo and the guard positions look decent with Scanga and the rookie Pritt likely to start. Tackle is where this unit will struggle, Hellerstedt (from Denver) and Jose Reed will start but this line may struggle to protect Leskanic and over the last 3 seasons he has been sacked an incredible 130 times!

Defence Defensively things look good in New England. The defensive line looks a great unit with Luke Styles stuffing up the middle in the 3-4 scheme and with Chapman and Brayton either side of him they will cause problems all day long. The linebacking ciorps looks good led by 2nd year player Troy Fitzgerald who has come back from summer league looking good to go and will be the heart and soul of this defence. He will be supported by

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SLB Watson and MLB Morrison both very capable and 2nd yr WLB Rusty Johnstone will be looking to add to hs 4.5 sacks from his rookie campaign. Into the secondary and the corners are locked down with Frankenhouser and England with some depth at the position. Safety may be the only weak spot on this defence with FS Leroy Ingram looking the pick of the bunch with Barton likely to start a SS

Special teams Again the Patriots look good on special teams with some solid contributors in their roster. Kicker Brady Shwartz looks capable of getting the job done after converting 20/26 last season. Crassweller has been brought in for punting duties and return duties look likely to be covered by Garcia (kicks) and punts returned by either O'Neil or more likely safety Barton. Expect tp see some points from this unit this season.

Verdict. The Patriots have no worries defensively apart from maybe a question at safety, and should worry opponents all day. On the other side of the ball the offence is going to be down to whether the line can keep Leskanic on his feet (and history is not on their side). If they can then the Pats should be able to put points on the board as Leskanic has undeniable talent and some good options. This writer predicts an improved record this season with an 8-8 record for New England.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens2013 record: 9-7 Scored: 380pts (17) Against: 345pts (8)

Total Offense: 356.0 (14) Pass: 241.3 (18) Rush: 122.3 (9)Total Defense: 359.0 (19) Pass: 264.5 (27) Rush: 106.8 (11)

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Off-Season:Baltimore just edged out Pittsburgh and Cleveland in the AC North last season and claimed the crown with a 9-7 record.The 2012 Real Bowl champs were ageing and unlike some other teams, the Ravens were hit with several retirements, four of whom were starters.CB Fred Smoot, WR’s Steve Smith and Nate Burleson and OG Jacob Bell will all leave holes on the roster.Thankfully there were no major defections in free agency to further damage the roster.Baltimore’s biggest FA signing was Jacksonville vet wideout Mark Clayton. There were no trade moves made and no high draft picks either as the Ravens had invested those over the last season or two.Their highest pick was a 4th round.A quiet off-season for the Ravens.

Offense:Baltimore are entering a period of transition.QB Michael Vick’s production has declined recently and although he may still hold down the starting job in his last contracted year, there are those who believe youngster Greenham will get his chance. Don’t rule out Eugene Karp either.None of the three are elite talents (Greenham may yet get close) but they are all capable and should be effective.The loss of Smith and Burleson hurt the team, leaving Jorge Downs as the only recognised wide threat. Hence, Mark Clayton was signed in FA but unfortunately the vet took a hit in training camp and as a result the receiving corps looks thin.TE McCree will see some ball and may be able to pick up some of the slack.One positive note on the offensive side of things is young RB Derek Wolfe.

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Wolfe had a very encouraging rookie season and looks sets to develop into the main offensive threat for the team taking over from veteran leader Ronnie Brown.Wolfe is capable of putting up some yardage and with a depleted passing attack, expect him to go over 1000yds. He may also be a target for Vick/Greenham/Karp.The O-line needs some reinforcing in the middle but has two very nice OT’s outside in McNeil and Farley.

Defense:The front line of the D is solid but average and needs reinforcement but there are some very talented linebackers behind.MLB Finley and SLB Blanton will be the foundation of the next generation of Baltimore’s defense.Going into the secondary and this group is also mid level.FS Joe Riley is a good guy to have back there and youngsters Brian Pierce and Albert Dixon should contribute but once again new blood is needed.

Special Teams:Punter Gerhardt has a fine leg but relies on power more than finesse.Vet kicker will perform well and is a fixture.Clayton, Downs and corner McFadden will fight it out for KR duties with Downs having a better TD return.SS Betchel is a solid PR man.

Verdict:As is the way of things, after a peak there is a trough, and unfortunately for the Ravens it appears they may be on the downward slope.After losing some talented vets and without an influx of young guns in the draft, things are going to get worse before they get better.The Ravens GM will be well aware that this season will really be about developing Greenham.

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I expect Baltimore to slide and they may hit the basement in the AC North if the Bengals can finally get their act together.Look for a 6-10 record or similar.

Pittsburgh Steelers 2013 Record: 9-7 Scored 365 (21) Against 337 (6)

Total Offence 339.4 (20) Pass 243.1 (17) Rush 106.1 (19) Total Defence 334.3 (9) Pass 235.6 (11) Rush 110.3 (13)

Off-season Head Coach Gozzi signed a new contract before Pittsburgh resigned and renegotiated a number of key contracts including DT Valcarcel’s as he signed a $40M 5 year deal. The Steelers added CB Godfrey who comes over from Jacksonville, DE Campbell and DT Sanford both from Arizona. The biggest signing may have been on the OL as C Culhane signed a 4-year deal for just under $29M as he left the Broncos. One other addition of note was LT Harper who left the Titans after 3 seasons. The draft saw Pittsburgh select LB Snyder with the 19th overall pick, while they got real value in the 6th round when they selected RB Jamison.

Offense Losman and Dedds competed for the starting role all season last year and though Losman was slightly better it is likely that Dedds will continue to be given starting time in order to fully develop. Whoever is passing the ball Wright makes a fantastic target and with Williamson healthy there are two quality receivers for opposing secondaries to worry about. Rookie Jamison will backup Parrish as the Steelers will likely try to establish more balance running the football this season. When you have C Grove, LG Mankins and RG Christakes in the interior it makes a lot of sense to run with the rock. LT Ellison

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ensures the left side of the line is really strong while the RT spot is up for grabs. It may be that LT Harper moves across otherwise Hodges is more likely to start than Grayson.

Defense DE Ferguson and DT Valcarcel ensure the left handside of the DL is a no go area, its not much easier on the other side as DT Hueffed is awesome against the run and Medaris is a quality pass rusher if he starts on the right end. Roaming behind this line is MLB Williams, Burton on the weak side and rookie Snyder at SLB ensure that this is a quality front seven. Copeland ensures that his side of the secondary is quiet, the issue is the other corner where Blair is likely to get the nod. Abner is turning into a quality SS while Hamlin is under pressure to retain the starters role at FS.

Special Teams Fannon (Punter) and Farmer (Kicker) are both good players, though Farmer does lack power. Smedley can return punts as can CB Godfrey. SS Palmer will ensure he makes the roster as he is excellent at returning kick-offs and may be the only player on the roster capable of the role.

Verdict There are high hopes in Pittsburgh as they have a talented roster ready to make a deep run into the playoffs. The only real worry is the QB controversy, if the Steelers play to their potential then they have to be one of the favourites to win the AFC.

Cleveland Browns 2013 Record: 7-9 Scored 335 (24) Against 374 (18th) Total Offence 304.2 (29) Pass 211.3 (26) Rush 1067.1 (20) Total Defence 334.8 (10) Pass 224.9 (5) Rush 121.4 (25)

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Off-season Despite significant improvements in 2013 the Browns still parted company with coach McIntyre. Replacing him is highly rated rookie head coach Jason Fabini, who had previously finished his playing career with the Browns. On the playing side it was a quiet off season for the Browns with all their 2013 starters returning. They were also content to focus on resigning their own free agents rather than chasing other teams. Their one notable signing was LT Tito Garrett from the Chiefs. Garrett a career back up but exceptional pas blocker, he's never allowed a sack in RDFL, is penciled in to start in Cleveland. As for the draft well ..... it never happened in Cleveland.

Offense QB remains a contentious issue on Cleveland. After trading to bring in Malcolm Hamilton last year he lost out to Jake Taber in pre season only to step in for 5 games when Taber was injured. Taber, when fit, performed well finishing with a 104.4 QB rating. His main attribute is his accuracy but he lacks arm strength and isn't capable of carrying a team alone. Nonetheless he works a low risk (the Brown went deep fewer times than any other team last year), west coast offense well. Prior to pre season the Browns added Charlie Frye from the Jets. Another career back up, Frye simply adds to the confusion in the depth chart and coach Fabini needs to make an early decision as to who is going to be his starter. At Wideout the Browns have a solid pair of starters in Hanshew and Garnes but little depth behind them. Wiggins was franchised but despite numerous attempts no new contract has been signed which means Wiggins will have to significantly up his game to earn his $6m contract. Considering Harvery Dumont is a clone of Wiggins on significantly less money the contract on Wiggins may prove a little excessive. Cleveland are a pass first team but when they do run they love to run the ball up the gut. Accordingly their line is strongest in

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that area and the line created holes that allowed their RBs a 4.5+ average, the 5th best in the league. Starting back Gougeon, a power back with decent pace, went over 1000 yards but only broke the plane of the endzone twice. It is clear that in the redzone the running game stumbles as D's crowd the line. Gougeon's 4.96 avg elsewhere on the field becomes 1.85 in the red zone.

Defense Rookie Jimmie Mughelli turned a good pass D into a very good one. Mughelli is rated by some as the best player in the league. A physical corner he challenges receivers at the line and makes it difficult for teams to run timing patterns and as result the Browns are the best in the league against short and medium passing. Mughellie will shut down any reciever without need for help which is just as well as the other CB position may be a problem for the Browns. Robinson started on the opposite side to Mughelli last year but he looks to have lost a step and the worry for the Browns may be that Mughelli skills will be negated as opposing teams look to pick at the weaker secondary areas. Elsewhere on the defensive side of the ball, the Browns have a star in the making in NT Coleman. In his 3rd year he looks set to make a breakkthrough and allow the Browns to play a true 3-4. However having ended the season on IR the Browns will need him to remain healthy all season if they are to compete. Elsewhere on the Dline things are not so rosy. Monty Bernard excelled last year recording 9 sacks and 51 tackles but it would be a surprise if he repeated this. The other psot is up for grabs with little known Arnold Lockley penciled in to start. Lockley should not be an RDFL starter and this must be one position the Browns need to upgrade. In moving to a 3-4, MLB Seigler will move to SILB and WLB Stene will move across SLB. Seigler is coming off a serious knee injury but if fully recovered will be key to the Browns stopping the run. However his impact may be limited in the 3-4 particularly alongside Sterne who despite being an athletic back

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capable of covering TEs is not the best tackler. Both are on the small side for the position and may find it difficult in the new system.

Special Teams Special teams are a strength for the Browns. Punter Patterson was all league last year with the 2nd best net average, while Kicker Leal never missed from under 40 yards and hasn't missed at all for 10 games. Mughelli enhanced his reputation while returning kick offs, his 3 TDs led the league and not only did he have a 32 yd average, he never fumbled.

Verdict The Browns look set to continue their improvements helped by the new head coach Fabini, however doubts persist that they have the personnel to run the 3-4 well enough to make the play offs. Nonetheless the division is wide open and a good run with, importantly, all their stars staying healthy they see them having a shot at the divisional title. Prediction 8-8.

Cincinnati Bengals 2013 Record: 4-12 Scored 399 (13) Against 479 (31)

Total Offence 377.9 (9) Pass 302.7 (2) Rush 86.6 (31) Total Defence 370.4 (27) Pass 255.6 (18th) Rush 123.4 (26)

Off-season After last years 4-12 outing the Bengals franchise have got to be looking for and improvement this year and the rebuilding always starts in the off season. With the excellent Head coach Ricky Blanchard at the helm and newly appointed Defensive coordinator Patterson there is a real sense of expectation among the Bengals fans. Running back Thurman Oren has been brought

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in via a trade from Denver with the only other notable free agent signing being LT Benjamin Mathews from St. Louis. With only one draft pick this year the Bengals looked to strengthen their already excellent d-line by adding DE Tony Robertson who looks a great prospect.

Offence Last season was all about the trade for Byron Leftwich but his first season in Cincinnatti left a bad taste in many Bengals fans mouths and he has to pick up his game this year. If he struggles then the back up option of Norbert Hoover is no slouch either. The trade for Oren offers a speedy and powerful back back and he will look to continue where he left off with Denver (1249yds 11tds and 699 yds receiving 2tds) however there is not much to offer as an option if Oren gets hurt. Notable targets for Leftwich include FL Edwin and SE Strzelczyk but again injuries to either would leave Geis as the only other target. Leftwich may look to his tight end Razi more this season as he is a good option but would need to improve on last years numbers. Protecting Lefty is a fairly solid offensive line with LT Ramczyk an excellent player with centre Michl also being a solid player. The returning Liersch will start at RT with Shea and Cole locking down the Guard positions. Once again lack of depth may be an issue here.

Defence The defensive line looks a formidable unit with a nice mix of youth and experience. Anchoring the middle are DT's Johanningmeir and Bernard who are both excellent players and providing pressure from the ends are 2nd year player Drew Caldwell who is a beast and this years only draft pick Tony Robertson who looks to be an excellent prospect. Either of these players could end up as the sack leaders this season. The line backing group look good with MLB Hetrick anchoring the middle. He has good skills across the board, reads the game well and can rush the passer effectively. Other notables are MLB

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Bennett and to a lesser degree SLB Blake and WLB Shannon, all capable but not outstanding players. The secondary could be this defences weakness with CB Routt and FS McDuffee are the standouts with the rest of the talent average with LCB Kuykendall and SS Zappa likely to be the other sterters.

Special teams. Punting will be Hudson who can get it done and kicking duties will fall to Alkateeb* who is solid but will look to make a few more this year. On kick return duties will be Geis and bringing back the punts will be Strzelczyk or SS Brewer if the bengals don't want to risk their receiver. This squad has some good contributors on special tems and should prove solid.

* Bengals have since traded in kicker Norbert Krawczyk from Tennesee

Verdict This team has to improve on last years showing, the big trade for Leftwich so far hasn't worked out and the front office have to hope that he shows up this year. The offence looks more than capable of putting points on the board and the defence looks very solid with the D-line potentially the best in the league with maybe only the secondary proving a weak link. The Bengals must be considered a dark horse this year and a prediction of 10-6 may seem fanciful but I look to Cincinnati to take the AFC North this year.

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