Louisiana Gridiron Football August Magazine

LOUISIANA GRIDIRON

FOOTBALL N F L Roundup

UL COACHING S TA F F O N

AUGUST 2018

Volume 4

Issue 8

$7.99

CAJUN C TURE

UL

august

contents 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

IN THE COMMUNITY DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH CHRISTOPHER WELCH S A L PA L E R M O I I I JOHN WILLIAMS M A R C D O U G H E RT Y GIDEON CUELLAR LANE ARMER

NFL ROUND UP DALLAS COWBOYS PHILADELPHIA EAGLES NEW YORK GIANTS WA S H I N G T O N R E D S K I N S CHICAGO BEARS DETROIT LIONS G R E E N B AY PA C K E R S M I N N E S O TA V I K I N G S TA M PA B AY B U C C A N E E R S

28 AT L A N TA FA L C O N S 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37

38 J A C K S O N V I L L E J A G U A R S

C A R O L I N A PA N T H E R S N E W O R L E A N S S A I N T S 39 SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS 40 ARIZONA CARDINALS 41 LOS ANGELES RAMS S E AT T L E S E A H AW K S P I T T S B U R G H S T E E L E R S 44 22 B A LT I M O R E R AV E N S MIAMI DOLPHINS CLEVELAND BROWNS C I N C I N N AT I B E N G A L S B U F FA L O B I L L S N E W E N G L A N D PAT R I O T S NEY YORK JETS HOUSTON TEXANS

T E N N E S S E E T I TA N S I N D I A N A P O L I S C O LT S KANSAS CITY CHIEFS LOS ANGELES CHARGERS DENVER BRONCOS OAKLAND RAIDERS LGF BOWL GAME C A J U N C U LT U R E

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Here at LGF, we are always excited to hear from parents/guardians about how the Diamond in the Rough Articles have helped their sons get the exposure needed for a college offer. In the past several months we have received numerous texts, emails, tweets, and messages from parents/guardians thanking us for helping. One reason that Diamond in the Rough Articles are so successful is that we do not charge for writing them, and coaches/recruiters know that.

This fact eliminates bias and helps us here at LGF to find diamonds. When I was coaching at Southeastern, Coach Lacy asked me to find a recruiting service that didn’t charge players for their services. Can you believe that back then, I could not find one? Since then, I have found individuals who work to promote players like Mary Jo from Recruit Louisiana.

In this month’s magazine, we have our NFL preseason. We also have an exclusive about University of Louisiana in Lafayette. I want to personally thank you for taking the time to read my magazine. Every magazine sold, helps us to continue to help more kids. If you enjoy reading about football please tell your finds about this magazine. Thank you for enjoying our magazine and helping make kids dreams of playing college football come true.

Thank you, Coach Andy Bryson

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6

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“As the father of one of the top 2019 DL Recruits in LA. I am forever grateful to the nationwide exposure Louisiana Gridiron Football Magazine has given my son to college football coaches, fans, athletes and media outlets. I can boldly say without a doubt their staff is second to none when it comes to football knowledge, evaluating recruits, college coaching network, training and interviewing athletes. By utilizing their multiple resources my son went from under the radar to committing to play for a top 25 football program on full scholarship.”

- Donald Berniard “As the father of a football player that has NOT been drafted, I am thankful to Andy Bryson and Louisiana Gridiron Football Organization. As with any parent, you want your son’s athleticism to be critiqued and for him to have a shot at his dream. This organization gives him and others an opportunity to be seen where they otherwise would not. The professionalism that this organization posses and the exposure to so many in the business of football, media, coaches, and former players is a testament to the sincerity of their desire to help young athletes.

Way to go Andy!”

- James Curry

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Diamond in the rough

OUR GOAL AT LGF IS TO HELP THE UNDERRATED BECOME RECRUITED 8

We highlight the best junior and senior athletes Louisiana has to offer. D.I.T.R. articles showcase the talent and ability of these players.

sOUTHERN LAB School BATON ROUGE, Louisiana

christopher welch

Christopher Welch is a 6’4 260lb defensive tackle from Southern Lab High School in Baton Rouge, LA. He is a highly touted prospect and is one of the top defensive linemen in the 2019 class. Welch has great size and hands to be able to shed off blockers and make plays in the backfield. He possesses great instincts for the football and is always around the ball carrier. Welch brings great quickness to the defensive line, being able to jump snaps and make big plays consistently. He has been the anchor for Southern Lab’s defense, being selected All District and All State two years straight. Welch is looking forward to a successful 2018 season with a deep playoff run.

By: Sam Parrino

Height

6’4

When did you start playing football?

Weight

260

When I was 11 years old in South Baton Rouge.

What do you love football?

ibench Squat

375

500 250

GPA

3.5

D.

I.T

.R

.

clean

I love everything about the game. I love close games, the intensity, and when it’s time for everyone on your team to step up. Seeing who puts the most work in to get the win is what I live for.

What are you motivated by?

I’m motivated to win really. I’m trying to go undefeated and I’m motivated by the fact that everyone is overlooking us this year.

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

I hustle every play. Even if I mess up I give it my all. I work harder than anyone else and I take no plays off.

What are your expectations for next season?

What kind of student are you in the classroom?

I’m very respectful and I do all my work. I help my teachers with anything they need and try to do more than is what expected.

What do you want to study in college?

I’m really interested in process engineering.

What have your learned about yourself while playing football?

I have learned that I have great communication skills. I can work with anybody and I make a great teammate on and off the field. I have also learned to keep myself calm in bad situations. You can’t do anything about it so you just have to keep pushing.

What would you consider your biggest strengths as a football player?

My high motor and my mentality. I give 110% on every play.

What would your coach say about you?

He would say that I’m a hard Personally I’m trying to get over 80 tackles. Team wise to go undefeated working player, very disciplined, very respectful, and a great listener. and make it to the dome.

9

live oak High School Watson, Louisiana

SAL PALERMO III

Sal Palermo III is a 6’2 200lb Quarterback from Live Oak High School in Watson, LA. Sal is a big time athlete and a gifted dual threat quarterback. He brings tremendous toughness to the Quarterback position and possesses top notch arm strength. Sal has the ability to put the ball where he wants to and is an excellent running quarterback as well, having the speed and decisive instincts to be able to shake defenders and break open big plays. Sal has great awareness on the field to be able to extend plays and make strong throws on the run too. He was a 2nd Team All Parish and All District Honorable Mention his Junior season at Live Oak. Palermo has his sights set on leading his team to a deep playoff run in 2018.

By: Sam Parrino

Height

6’2

When did you start playing football?

Weight

200

I started playing when I was 7 years old at a Live Oak youth football league What is it that makes you love the game?

40 time

.R

.

26

I.T

ACT

3.98

D.

gpa

4.9

The brotherhood and being out there with your best friends. I love the competitiveness of the game and the intensity when its game time.

Who do you model your gameplay after?

Baker Mayfield because of the competitiveness and fire he plays with and just refusing to lose. Also Drew Brees and Peyton Manning because of their mindset and their ability to prepare before games.

What are you most motivated by?

I just love to win. My motivation is wanting to succeed and doing the best you can for the guy next to you. I’m motivated by not letting my coaches or teammates down. Just wanting to succeed for them.

What area of your game would you like to improve on this off season?

Getting a little quicker and faster.

Just working on having a little more burst coming through the hole. This is something you need as much as we run the ball.

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

My arm strength and my leadership. I feel I’m one of the better arms around and I have a high ceiling. I have spent a lot of time at camps this summer trying to show off my arm. I just try to be me and lead by example.

What are your expectations for next season?

I want to go to the dome and win state. Just live it up for senior year, sink in every moment I can, and say I gave it everything I had. Just give everything I got and hopefully be on top at the end of the year.

What have your learned about yourself while playing football?

I have learned about toughness and that you can get through anything.

Last year was a big example of being down than coming together and climbing back up. We won our first two games then lost five games in a row. No matter what happens you have to stay positive and keep fighting. We then upset Sulphur and East Ascension. No matter how bad things may seem, eventually there will be light at the end of the tunnel.

LOYOLA COLLEGE PREP SHREVEPORT, Louisiana

JOHN wILLIAMS By: Sam Parrino

Height

6’O

Weight

165

ibench Squat

205

325

SHUTTLE 4.2

4.47

GPA

3.2

D.

I.T

.R

.

40 time

John is a gifted athlete and is a playmaker at receiver with top class speed. His great speed combined with his vision make him a huge threat on offense and in the return game.

Has tremendous hands with the great ability to create open space for himself downfield.

John has earned all-district honors in both his Sophomore and Junior seasons and has broken multiple school records throughout his career at Loyola Prep; including having the record for most receptions in a game and in a season.

Throughout the 2017 season was nominated for player of the week twice, having won once.

Additionally, John was also nominated for 2017 player of the year in Division II. John is an experienced receiver who is looking to lead his team deep into the playoffs in 2018.

When did you start playing football?

When I was 5 years old at Evangeline Christian Academy.

What is it that makes you love the game?

All the hard work and time that you put in and seeing that payoff is what makes me love the game. Just seeing what you can become makes it all worth it.

What attributes do you possess that make you a good teammate?

I love being a teammate. I’m the team leader and I try to keep the team as a unit inside and outside of the white lines. If you see me most of the time, chances are I’m with my teammates.

Have you gone to any camps or plan to?

University of Central Arkansas, Louisiana tech, and Mississippi Valley State.

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

That I’m an extra coach and leader on the field. I always try to

keep everyone in the right mindset.

I take care of my school work and am always trying to one up my opponents. I’m always watching film and looking for ways to beat someone or game plans that could work. I have lots of heart and I will never back down.

What are your expectations for next season?

I want to help my team as much as possible and I want us to be District Champions. Personally, I want to eliminate drops and have multiple touchdowns in multiple games. I want to try to have at least three returning touchdowns and also break the rest of the receiving records in the book.

What would you say are your biggest accomplishments?

Just setting and achieving my goals.

Putting my name out there and receiving my first DI offer.

What have your learned about yourself while playing football?

One thing I learned about myself is that no matter what I do I have to encourage myself in a positive way, and have short-term memory when bad things happen. Also, that you have to step up when its necessary, you can’t be a selfish person. I’ve learned to play for everyone on the field and not just myself.

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jesuit high school new orleans, Louisiana Marc Dougherty Jr. is a 6’0 230lb Linebacker from Jesuit High School in New Orleans, Louisiana. Marc possesses a very high football IQ , and when complimented with his high motor style of play makes for an immense threat to any offense. During one span through the 2017 season, he racked up 50 tackles through 4 games. Great instincts and possesses great skill to be able to make open field tackles.

Plays with an aggressive purpose and has a natural ability to read the gaps extremely well, making him a force of a run stopper for Jesuit.

Marc has worked his tail off in the off-season and is a leader and ready to lead his team to a big 2018 season.

marc dougherty By: Sam Parrino

Height

6’O

Weight

230

ibench Squat

315

485

clean

260

40 time

4.9

act

30

Age of 4 at Lakeview Playground when my dad was the coach.

What is it that makes you love the game?

The team aspect of the game and also the competitiveness. I love lining up against someone and knowing it’s just me against them, no outside noise it just comes down to all the work you put in during the offseason and that week prior.

Who do you model your gameplay after?

.R

.

Joe Schmidt from Notre Dame.

He plays the game with a similar mentality to me and he almost always knows what’s going to happen before it does.

Have you gone to any camps or plan to?

I.T

D.

When did you start playing football?

Tulane, Dartmouth, Cornell, and University of Pennsylvania.

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

My heart and my leadership separates me from other

linebackers. If anybody watches me play I play with a lot of heart and no one works harder than me. I’m always that vocal leader and I make everybody else better.

What are your expectations for next season?

I believe we have a good chance at making a run for state. I expect to lead the team in tackles and make All District. I want to have at least 120 tackles, 5 sacks, 2 interceptions.

What kind of student are you in the classroom?

I work hard in the classroom. I used to carry 3.1 GPA but throughout high school I picked it up to a 3.7. I think that translates to film and why I’m able to study and read film so well. I think I handle it all well playing 3 sports.

I’m also on the Executive board for student council.

What would your coach say about you?

I work hard and I’m a coach’s player.

Whatever he needs I give 110 percent all the time. He knows football means more to me than it does a lot of others.

And that people know when I’m on the field because of my intensity.

What do you want to study in college?

Pre-Med or Biology. I want to be a dentist. I’ve already started to shadow people in dentistry.

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UNIVERSITY high school BATON ROUGE, Louisiana

GIDEON CUELLAR By: Sam Parrino

Height

6’O

Weight

205

ibench Squat

225

400 270

40 time

4.65

GPA

3.0

D.

I.T

.R

.

clean

is a 6’0 205lb Linebacker/ Strong Safety from University Lab High School in Baton Rouge, LA. He is a solid tackler with an aggressive nature that creates problems for offenses. His knowledge at the linebacker position, and excellent read and react skills allow him to come up and make big plays at the line of scrimmage. Gideon also has the speed to cut off runs stretched to the outside. His junior year, he was a 2nd Team All District selection and a key part of University Lab’s championship defense; racking up 70 tackles, 5 sacks, and 13 TFL. He is a talented athlete who plays with a high motor each time he touches the field.

After winning a state championship last season, Gideon is ready to play at a high level and is locked in on helping his team become the first back to back champions in U-High history.

When did you start playing football?

When I was 6 with the Southside Patriots.

What is it that makes you love the game?

I have just always had a passion for it. I grew up playing it and I haven’t stopped since.

Who do you model your gameplay after?

Ray Lewis because we play with the same mentality.

What area of your game would you like to improve on this off season?

I would like to improve on film study more. So I can study and react quicker to what the offense will do. Just getting better at reading offenses and watching film.

What area of your game would you like to improve on this off season?

I would like to improve on film study more. So I can study and react quicker to what the offense will do. Just getting better at reading offenses and watching film.

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

My work ethic and how willing I am to do whatever it takes to be the best.

What are your expectations for next season?

I expect to go back to back. Be the best we can be and be the first team in U-High history to go back to back.

What would you say are your biggest accomplishments?

Definitely winning the state championship last season.

What have you learned about yourself while playing football?

Learned that I can be as good as I want to be, just depends on how much work I put in.

Who do you look up to and why?

I look up to my mom. She’s a great woman who never gives up and pushes me to be the best.

What would you consider your biggest strengths as a football player?

My willingness to do whatever it takes to win and my work ethic. The work I put in outside of game days; practicing, working out, etc.….

DERIDDER high school DERIDDER, Louisiana Lane Armer is a 6’0 205lb Quarterback from Deridder High School (Deridder, LA). Lane has tremendous vision and awareness to go along with being a natural born leader on the field. Very quick thinker who can spread the ball all over the field and possesses a natural talent for placing the ball wherever he wants to.

Reminds you a lot of a Drew Brees type player with accuracy being a large asset to his game accompanied with the ability to extend plays and throw accurately on the run too. Protects the ball very well, having a 17-4 touchdowns to interceptions ratio in 2017. Was a 2nd Team All District selection as a Junior. Expecting to lead his team to a successful season in 2018 with the playmakers he has by his side.

LANE ARMER By: Sam Parrino

Height

6’O

Weight

205

ibench Squat

270

435 265

GPA

4.0

ACT

27

What would college coaches be most impressed with about you?

My coachability. I want to be coached and I want to learn what I’m doing wrong and how to fix it.

What are your expectations for next season?

To go far as a team and I know we can, we have the playmakers to do so. I want to have over 2,000 yards throwing and at least 20 passing touchdowns.

What have your learned about yourself while playing football?

I learned that your brain tells you to stop but your body can handle more.

You have to push yourself. I’ve also learned that one man cannot carry a team, it takes every man on the field to do their job in order to be successful.

What would your coach say about you?

That I’m coachable and that I’ve done everything he’s asked of me, listened to him, and learned from him. I’m always eager to keep my teammates motivated. I pick up easily on new concepts and am eager to learn.

D.

I.T

.R

.

clean

When did you start playing football?

I started playing flag football at 5 years old. Played four years then I didn’t play again until Junior High.

What is it that makes you love the game?

Love how it makes everyone on the team closer. You need everyone out there and everyone needs you.

You have to be able to trust in one another and that’s why I love it.

Who do you model your gameplay after?

Tim Tebow because how he gave all glory to god and gave his heart on the field.

Growing up, did you play any other sports?

I played baseball my whole life until my freshman year. I played third base and I pitched.

What area of your game would you like to improve on this off season?

I would like to improve on my run game more. Just keeping the defense on their heels more.

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Eagles Patriots Jaguars Saints Steelers Rams Falcons Vikings Chargers Texans Chiefs Panthers Packers Ravens Bills Cowboys

2018 PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

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Lions Titans 49ers Broncos Redskins Giants Raiders Browns Bears Buccaneers Jets Seahawks Cardinals Bengals Colts Dolphins

east

draft picks

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4 4.

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6.

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(19) Leighton Vander Esch, LB, Boise State (50) Connor Williams, G, Texas (81) Michael Gallup, WR, Colorado State (116) Dorance Armstrong, Jr., DE, Kansas (137) Dalton Schultz, TE, Stanford (171) Mike White, QB, Western Kentucky (193) Chris Covington, LB, Indiana (208) Cedrick Wilson, Jr., WR, Boise State (236) Bo Scarbrough, RB, Alabama

By: Brantley Mathis

east

The Cowboys finished 9-7 in the 2017 season, failing to qualify for the playoffs after an incredible run by Dak Prescott and company in 2016. However, they finished second in the division with the same division record as the Eagles. The Cowboys lost a lot of assistant coaches, but managed to maintain the three main positions. Dak Prescott’s production went down in year two, but he will look to really bounce this year. That might prove difficult as Jason Witten’s retirement at tight end, and Dez Bryant’s departure at wide receiver leave him with less options to throw to. For this reason the cowboys drafted two wide receivers and a tight end. Ezekiel Elliott served a six game suspension last year, but still managed to finish just seventeen yards shy of 1000. The defensive line is returning break out star and sack leader Demarcus Lawrence who finished with 14.5 last season. Defensive tackle David Irving should continue to disrupt things up the middle, while a new look secondary will likely have to iron out some wrinkles in the first few weeks of the season under new secondary coach Kris Richard. Also there should be a lot of competition for the starting positions in the secondary in the pre-season. Look for first round pick Vander Esch to start at middle linebacker alongside returner Jaylon Smith and fan favorite Sean Lee. Head Coach Jason Garrett has only one post-season win going into his eighth season at the helm--I see his seat warming up. It should be interesting to see if the Cowboys can get on the same page before week one--and beyond.

By: Brantley Mathis

draft picks

2.

4.

4.

6.

7.

(49) Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State (125) Avonte Maddox, CB, Pittsburgh (130) Josh Sweat, DE, Florida State (206) Matt Pryor, OT, TCU (233) Jordan Mailata, OT, Australia

The Eagles will enter the NFL season for the first time ever as reigning Super Bowl Champions after Nick Foles stepped up following Carson Wentz’s torn ACL against the Rams in December of 2017. Foles went on to win MVP of the Super Bowl, and will likely enter the season as the starter for the Eagles at quarterback. Zach Ertz, who was Wentz’s favorite target in 2017, is perhaps the biggest threat in receiving corps. Free agent Mike Wallace was picked up to stretch the field vertically. At running back the Eagles re-signed Darren Sproles (recovering from a torn ACL), and signed Josh Adams to compliment Corey Clement who showed promise in his rookie season. Also returning is running back Jay Ajayi. The offensive line was the biggest question for the Eagles going into last season, but the season molded them well. Tackle Jason Peters is coming off a torn ACL, but the offensive line this year is without question. Finishing fourth overall, and first against the run Jim Schwartz changed the defensive landscape in 2017. The Eagles had nineteen interceptions to go along with thirty-eight sacks. Breakout defensive end Brandon Graham finished last year with 9.5 sacks, while tackle Fletcher Cox was awarded First-Team All-Pro. The Eagles also added Michael Bennett and Chris Long to give depth and play pivotal roles in pass rush situations. Linebacker is the biggest question mark for the Eagles as Paul Worrilow is already done for the season with a torn ACL, and Mychal Kendricks was released in May. Can Jordan Hicks stay healthy this season? The secondary, similar to the offensive line was questionable at the beginning of 2017, but faired well and found their identity. Former LSU cornerback Jalen “Green Goblin” Mills played a significant role, along with safety Malcom Jenkins in anchoring the pass defense on the Super Bowl run. If the Eagles can remain healthy overall, they are in place to make another run at the coveted Lombardi Trophy.

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east east

By: Brantley Mathis

draft picks

1.

2.

3.

3.

4.

5.

(2) Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State (34) Will Hernandez, G, Texas El-Paso (66) Lorenzo Carter, LB, Georgia (69) B.J. Hill, DT, North Carolina State (108) Kyle Lauletta, QB, Richmond (139) R.J. McIntosh, DT, Miami (FL)

The Giants fared poorly in 2017 finishing with only three wins, and as a result fired Coach Ben Mcadoo. To replace him they brought in Pat Shurmur who most recently served as offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. For the first time ever, Eli Manning rode the bench behind Geno Smith late in the season. Former LSU standout Odell Beckham Jr is coming off an ankle injury that stalled the Giant’s offense. Tight end Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard need to be more consistent receiving this season. First round pick Saquon Barkley will open up the passing game by making secondaries respect the run game once again. I think he will have a breakout rookie season with 1200 all purpose yards. The offensive line remains questionable for the Giants which has arguably been the reason for Manning’s demise. The Giant’s defense will take a new look in 2018, changing from the 4-3 defense to an attacking 3-4. Veteran Jason Pierre-Paul who has been with the Giants since he was drafted in 2010 was traded for edge rusher Kareem Martin. The Giants also traded for Alec Ogletree who is a force at linebacker. In the secondary Landon Collins and top 10 pick Eli Apple return and are expected to be relied on a lot man-to-man in a blitz-happy defense. Also watch for rookie Lorenzo Carter to come in and shake things up in this new 3-4 defense. The Giants have a ways to go before a deep playoff run is in the picture, so this year could require some patience.

draft picks

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

7.

(13) Da’ Ron Payne, DT, Alabama (59) Derrius Guice, RB, LSU (74) Geron Christian, OT, Louisville (109) Troy Apke, S, Penn State (163) Tim Settle, DT, Virginia Tech (197) Shaun Dion Hamilton, LB, Alabama (241) Greg Stroman, CB, Virginia Tech (256) Trey Quinn, WR, Southern Methodist *(LSU Transfer)

By: Brantley Mathis

18

The Redskins posted a 7-9 record in 2017, failing to make the playoffs where they have not won a game in over a decade. Coach Jay Gruden is entering his fifth year as head coach. After cutting ties with Robert Griffin III, Kirk Cousins was supposed to be the saving grace, but that did not pan out either. To replace Cousins, the Redskins brought in veteran Alex Smith in the offseason with $71 million guaranteed. Josh Doctson is returning at receiver, as rookies Trey Quinn and Cam Sims attempt to compete for playing time at the position. At running back the Redskins are putting their hopes into former LSU standout Derrius Guice. Guice is a wrecking ball of energy that should alleviate some pressure on Smith, and also look for him to work out of the backfield in the passing game as well. Redskins defense was atrocious last year finishing twelfth worst in yards per game, and thirty-second in rush defense. Jonathan Allen, who only played part of his rookie season, is looking to make a strong comeback in 2018 alongside elite pass rusher Ryan Kerrigan. Perhaps the biggest strength of the defense was the secondary, anchored by veteran Josh Norman. They also brought in Orlando Scandrick from the Dallas Cowboys during free agency. The future of the Redskins is a bit unclear as of right now. There is reason to be optimistic, but do not get hopes too high in 2018. I believe Jay Gruden is on the hot seat this season as well, so it should be interesting to see how things play out.

north By: Brantley Mathis

draft picks

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2.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

(8) Roquan Smith, LB, Georgia (39) James Daniels, C, Iowa (51) Anthony Miller, WR, Memphis (115) Joel Iyiegbuniwe, LB, Western Kentucky (145) Billy Nichols, DT, Delaware (181) Kylie Fits, LB, Utah (224) Javon Wims, WR, Georgia

The Chicago Bears had a quiet season going 5-11 and failing to make the playoffs under first year quarterback Mitchell Trubisky. At the end of the 2017 season Chicago fired John Fox and brought in Matt Nagy, who had previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs. He hired Mark Helfrich, former head coach at Oregon as his offensive coordinator, known for his high tempo, air raid game that spreads receivers out to create running lanes inside. Trubisky will be looking to target Allen Robinson--recovering from an ACL injury-- and Taylor Gabriel at receiver. At tight end they picked Trey Burton up in free agency. Returning running back Jordan Howard rushed for 1,122 yards in 2017, making it two years in a row that he rushed for at least a thousand. Nagy says he will likely remain the main ball carrier, so look for him in the passing game as well this year. The Bears’ depth at offensive line is a bit questionable.

To add to worries, three time pro-bowler right guard Kyle Long has had neck, shoulder, and elbow surgeries since late 2017. The defense will be working with new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio who will install a base 3-4 defense. Look for first round draft pick Roquan Smith to partner well with former teammate Leonard Floyd at linebacker. Prince Amukamara and Kyle Fuller both re-signed this offseason and will anchor the defense from the cornerback position. The defensive line will be featured by veteran Akiem Hicks, with goliath Eddie Goldman likely starting at nose. Hicks has produced well in his tenure with Chicago, tallying 39 tackles and 8.5 sacks last season. Bears fans should be patient this season under first year coach Nagy.

19

north north

By: Brantley Mathis

By: Brantley Mathis

20

draft picks

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

7.

(20) Frank Ragnow, C, Arkansas (43) Kerryon Johnson, RB, Auburn (82) Tracy Walker, S, Louisiana-Lafayette (114) Da’Shawn Hand, DE, Alabama (153) Tyrell Crosby, T, Oregon (237) Nick Bawden, FB, San Diego State

It was a quiet season for the Detroit Lions in 2017. They finished 9-7 for the second season in a row and failed to make the playoffs under fourth year coach Jim Caldwell.

They then fired Caldwell and hired Matt Patricia who has been on the New England Patriots staff for fourteen years, serving as their defensive coordinator since 2012. Before his career as a coach, he worked for two years as an engineer. Patricia is tasked with engineering an offense around tenth year veteran Matthew Stafford who signed a five year $135 million contract in early 2017. In free agency the Lions picked up LeGarrette Blount at running back after they drafted Kerryon Johnson out of Auburn. Both backs complement each other well and should be an interesting duo to watch this year. Also, watch for Kerryon out of the backfield on passing plays as well. The offensive line was plagued last year with injuries, and Stafford felt the ramifications, as he was sacked forty-seven times. The Lions went after center Frank Ragnow in the first round because of this. New offensive line coach Jeff Davidson is hoping everyone can stay healthy this season. Golden Tate and Marvin Jones will be Stafford’s targets downfield this season.

They combined for over 2,000 receiving yards in 2017 and fourteen touchdowns. On defense Patricia likes big defensive linemen like Haloti Ngata and Ezekiel Ansah to play a two-gap assignments in his three man fronts. Look for Alabama rookie Da’Shawn Hand to compete at the end of the season as well. The secondary looks like the most promising position group for the Lions. Darius Slay earned Pro-Bowl honors at cornerback while hawking in eight interceptions last season. Both starting safeties are back as well for the Lions after finishing sixth in the league in both passing and total defense. I see the Lions with less wins than last season because of the transition to a new coach.

draft picks

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

5.

5.

6.

7.

7.

7.

(18) Jaire Alexander, DB, Louisville (45) Josh Jackson, CB, Iowa (88) Oren Burks, OLB, Vanderbilt (133) J’Mon Moore, WR, Missouri (138) Cole Madison, G, Washington State (172) JK Scott, P, Alabama (174) Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, South Carolina (207) Equanimeous St. Brown, WR, Notre Dame (232) James Looney, DE, California (239) Hunter Bradley, LS, Mississippi State (248) Kendall Donnerson, LB, Southeast Missouri

When Aaron Rodgers went down with a fractured clavicle in October of 2017, so did the Packers chances of making the playoffs. They managed to finish the season with seven wins, picking up just three after Rodgers went down. After cutting Jordy Nelson, the Packers managed to add All-Pro tight end Jimmy Graham to the roster this offseason which will provide Rodgers with that big target he has been missing since Jermichael Finley. Davante Adams also returns a year after hauling in double digit touchdown receptions. The backfield will feature a duo of sophomore running backs in Jamaal Williams and Aaron Jones who will look for more consistency in the run game to take the pressure off of Rodgers. This of course is only possible through the work of the big men up front. The Packers’ offensive line is a question mark for the offense. Right tackle Bryan Bulaga is coming of an ACL injury, and the right guard position is up for grabs right now. Draftee Cole Madison should compete for playing time at the position.

On the defensive side of the ball, a new face is leading the Packers’ defense in Coach Mike Pettine who comes over from the Jets. They drafted two defensive backs with their first two picks in the draft, somewhat filling a hole in depth at the position. A decent defensive line returns and will be anchored by Mike Daniels and veteran Muhammad Wilkerson who was brought in from the Jets. Clay Matthews looks to remain healthy in his tenth season with the Packers after playing in fourteen games in 2017, and posting 44 total tackles with 8.5 sacks. This Packers team is interesting and success will depend on players stepping up at various positions on both sides of the ball.

north south

By: Brantley Mathis

By: Brantley Mathis

draft picks

1.

2.

4.

5.

5.

6.

6.

7.

(30) Mike Hughes, DB, UCF (62) Brian O’Neill, OT, Pittsburgh (102) Jalyn Holmes, DE, Ohio State (157) Tyler Conklin, TE, Central Michigan (167) Daniel Carlson, K, Auburn (213) Colby Gossett, G, Appalachian State (218) Ade Aruna, DE, Tulane (225) Devante Downs, LB, California

Both Sam Bradford and Teddy Bridgewater left the Vikings in free agency this offseason leaving a huge hole to fill at the position. Kirk Cousins was added for a hefty price of course ($30 million), and will be backed up by Trevor Siemian. Dalvin Cook whose injury kept him sidelined for most of last season will lead the Vikings at running back.

He will be backed up by Latavius Murray who should provide some quality reps. Kyle Rudolph will lead the way for the tight ends coming off an eight touchdown reception season. Second team All-Pro receiver Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs will be targets for Cousins downfield. In 2017 they combined for 2,125 yards and twelve touchdowns. The offensive line in 2017 allowed thirty-seven sacks, and lost Joe Berger at right guard. To compensate they signed two free agents who will likely compete for the position while the two draftees mature for a year. The Vikings defense looks to maintain dominance again this season after allowing the fewest amount of points per game in the league last season. Former LSU defensive end Danielle Hunter just inked a new extension worth $14.4 million over five years. He returns to the defensive front along with Linval Joseph and second team All-Pro edge rusher Everson Griffen who raked in twelve sacks last season. Linebacker Eric Kendricks who had 113 total tackles last season will play middle linebacker alongside Anthony Barr. Vikings’ secondary should be impressive this season, fielding two first team All-Pro players in Harrison Smith at free safety, and Xavier Rhodes at cornerback. In 2017 the Vikings secondary allowed just over 3,000 yards passing and only thirteen passing touchdowns. The defense looks to be on path for another stellar year, so it comes down to the offense being able to find a rhythm under a first year quarterback Kirk Cousins.

draft picks

1.

2.

2.

2.

3.

4.

5.

(12) Vita Vea, DT, Washington (38) Ronald Jones II, RB, USC (53) M.J. Stewart, CB, North Carolina (63) Carlton Davis, CB, Auburn (94) Alex Cappa, G, Humboldt State (117) Jordan Whitehead, S, Pittsburgh (144) Justin Watson, WR, Pennsylvania

The 2017 season was one to forget for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they finished the season 5-11. A struggling Jameis Winston still managed 3,500 passing yards while tossing nineteen touchdowns paired with eleven interceptions. Winston will miss three games this season just as he did last, only this time for a league mandated suspension rather than injury.

Ryan Fitzpatrick will likely get the nod to begin the season. Desean Jackson and Mike Evans return as targets for whoever the quarterback is. It was noted that Winston struggled to connect with Jackson who hauled in 668 receiving yards and only three touchdowns. Tight ends O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate return after combining for twelve receiving touchdowns last season. The Bucs are finally moving on from Doug Martin who fell off tremendously in the past few seasons. Draftee Ronald Jones II from USC will now fight for playing time at the running back position. He rushed for over 3,600 yards in three seasons with the Fighting Trojans. Center Ryan Jensen was brought in from the Baltimore Ravens to help with depth at line. Right tackle Demar Dotson is recovering from a knee injury, so it should be interesting to see how they handle the holes they have on the line. The Buccaneers defense in 2017 was atrocious, finishing last in the league in many categories such as total defense. The defensive line has been remodeled around former Oklahoma standout Gerald McCoy. Jason Pierre-Paul was acquired in a trade from the New York Giants, while Beau Allen and Vinny Curry were picked up in free agency. Look for draftee Vita Vea to compete for playing time at defensive tackle. Two former LSU linebackers hold down the middle of the Bucs’ defense in Kendell Beckwith and speedster Kwon Alexander. The secondary is perhaps the weakest link of the defense now, but it features corners Brent Grimes and Ryan Smith. The defense still has a lot of work to do, but the pieces in place as of now appear to have potential. With the defense looking to be going in a good direction, success this season will depend on Winston and the Bucs’ offense finding a way to put points on the board.

21

J U N A CC TURE UL WITH THE UL C O A C H I N G S TA F F

B Y: A N D Y B RY S O N

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Louisiana is known for its tropical weather, year-round fishing, hunting, bad politics, and for its football. Sure, everyone has heard of the New Orleans Saints or the LSU Tigers. But nestled deep in the Atchafalaya Basin lies one of Louisiana’s largest schools, The University of Louisiana (UL) Ragin Cajuns.

Rich in French culture and history, University of Louisiana sits in the heart of Acadiana. Boasting a rich football tradition as well as impressive academics, UL has gained national attention for their department of petroleum engineering.

It is ranked 7th in the United States and 13th in the World as one of the best universities for gas, oil, and petroleum engineering in 2017 according to CEOWORLD magazine.

S

ince joining the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) or Division IA in 1978, the Cajuns have only been to five post season bowl games. All of which have been played since 2011. The Cajuns had a 4-1 bowl record before being forced to vacate their wins in 2011 and 2013, leaving them with a 2-1 bowl record. However, the university vacated all of its 2011 wins, including the New Orleans Bowl, two years later when the NCAA sanctioned the university because an assistant football coach conspired to “obtain fraudulent entrance exam scores” for five recruits from 2011 until 2013. The university dismissed the coach in 2014 and sued the testing company in 2016 for failing to adequately supervise their staff and testing procedures.

The NCAA accepted the university’s self-imposed penalties including a two-year probation, a small fine, a small reduction in football scholarships, and recruiting restrictions. Due to the NCAA sanctions along with three consecutive losing seasons, the previous head coach was eventually released.

On December 18th, 2017 The University of Louisiana announced the hiring of new head coach Billy Napier. In 2017, Coach Napier was the youngest offensive coordinator in a power five conference at Arizona State at only 37 years old. Before his oneyear stint at Arizona State, he had spent time at the University of Alabama and Clemson University. In a span of only four seasons, he had been an assistant coach in three FBS National Championship games while winning two of them at Alabama.

“A leader, listener, teacher, and accomplished recruiter, Coach Napier brings many years of coaching experience including stints in the SEC, ACC, PAC-12, and Mountain West Conference under head coaches Nick Saban, Dabo Swinney, Tommy Bowden, Todd Graham, and Jim McElwain.

He has been part of winning two National Championships and three SEC Championships. He coordinated the recruiting efforts that helped lead the Clemson Tigers to the No. 2 overall recruiting class in the nation in 2008. As an offensive coordinator he set all-time school records for most points in a season. Finally, Coach Napier has developed numerous football student-athletes at multiple positions including quarterback and wide receiver. We are absolutely thrilled to identify a Head Football coach with the experience and success that Billy Napier brings to the University of Louisiana. Coach Napier is highly respected within the coaching profession and brings tremendous experience from nationally-ranked programs. He is widely considered to be one of America’s top recruiters and offensive minds and will instill the values of a Championship program into Ragin’ Cajuns Football.”

Dr. Bryan Maggard, Director of Athletics

23

W

hen coach Billy Napier took over as the new head coach for the Ragin’ Cajuns, he brought in a whole new coaching staff.

“Coach Napier put together a great coaching staff.

Coach Mark Hocke has been working us all hard in the weight room, and we’ve all seen improvement and everyone on the team has dropped body fat, and they’ve been getting in better shape. Coaches Rob Sale and D.J. Looney have been great as my position coaches, they both know exactly what they’re doing and how to get the best out of us.” said Robert Hunt, JR OL. SR DB Corey Turner said about the new coaches, “There’s some real intense coaching going on with the new staff.

In fact, we’ve got more coaches on the staff then I can ever remember being here at Louisiana. That means that there is more individually focused coaching happening among the different positions.” The transition from the previous coach staff went very smoothly according to senior defensive back Corey Turner,

“It was really easy because Coach Napier is really a player’s coach. He listened to what we had to say, and the team just went from there.”

One area coach Napier wants the team to focus on is the culture.

Coach Napier said, “when we talk about culture here at Louisiana, we are talking about it in two different ways. The first culture we are trying to establish is how we go about our business inside the building, how our players represent the university, the community, and the football team in a first class approach we want them to have. Culture includes the team’s integrity, their discipline, their toughness, the togetherness we want to play with, the impact we can have on the community, and certain level of belief that we can do certain things. That applies to every area. Culture is not only how we play on Saturdays, but it is also how we compete as students. It is how players represent themselves as people not only while they are in school, but the dynamic of when they leave here they have their education.

Not only do they have an education, but also a network of people and a 24 skill set that they can go have success in life.

The second part of culture is, our area. Our region is unique. It is special. You cannot drive through this community and not recognize that. It is all about the people and their beliefs. Their belief in hard work, their belief in doing things with class, and their want to be associated with a winner is why our new staff is at the University of Louisiana. It is to establish those two things. Establish our culture inside the building and embrace the culture in this community.”

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he coaches that Coach Napier has brought in have a long-standing relationship with the culture, not only in Lafayette, but with Louisiana. Coach Ron Roberts (UL Defensive Coordinator), came over from Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU), where he had been the head coach since the 2012 season. In his tenure at SLU, he won

back to back Southland Conference championships, won the school’s first conference championship in over 30 years, and finished the 2013 season in the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs. Coach Jabbar Juluke (Running Backs Coach/Assistant Head Coach) is from New Orleans, he played his college ball at Southern University then returned home to coach high school football. He then came to the college ranks where he had college coaching stints in Louisiana at LSU and Louisiana Tech. Coach Juluke has been listed as one of the best college recruiters in the country. Coach Rob Sale (UL Offensive Coordinator) played at LSU in college then has had coaching stints at McNeese State and ULM. Coach Mike Desormeaux (UL Tight Ends coach) played at the University of Louisiana and is the only returning coach from the previous coaching staff. Coach Tim Leger (UL WR Coach/Recruiting Coordinator) played his college ball at McNeese State, then coached high school football at St Thomas Moore in Lafayette. He returned to McNeese to serve as Offensive Coordinator in 2007 then went to ULM before being brought onto the UL coaching staff. Coach Matt Powledge (UL OLB Coach) was a graduate assistant at SLU and the last two seasons he was Special teams coach and Tight ends coach for ULM. Coach Patrick Toney was a defensive assistant and Special Teams coach with SLU. The ties that Coach Billy Napier has brought in to the University of Louisiana from Louisiana is remarkable.

Last season the defense could not stop the run. With a lot of new faces both in the locker room and on the sidelines, this year’s team will have to find a new identity.

“Coach Roberts has a dynamic defense.

It’s very fun to play in because it puts you in a position to make great plays.

He does a great job of putting the right people in the right place at the right time.

I am excited for this upcoming season and a chance to play in this high impact defense.”

Corey Turner

N

ot only are players looking forward to the implementation of this new culture, the coaching staff has expressed excitement about the upcoming season.

25

“I am excited about training camp as we get a chance to develop our team for the first time with all 110-130 players together. We have a lot of questions to answer such as to what type of identity team is this football team going to have and what our leadership will look like on the players’ level. Those are a couple questions we, as a staff, have to answer. One thing that is evident is our fan base is passionate, have energy and they are excited. To go with that, we have a football team that is anxious to prove themselves,” Coach Napier

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his summer’s workout has been much different per the players. “We wake up early and have a team run, around six in the morning to kick off our Mondays. Then around 8:30 in the morning we come back and hit the weight room for one of the team workouts. After breakfast we get a few hours off before returning to the complex for OTAs to complete a full day,” said Robert Hunt, “It’s just been a grind, a good grind, but it’s definitely been a grind. We’ve consistently been hard at work all summer long, with a lot of conditioning and that’s getting us ready for our first game on Sept. 1 against Grambling. Coach Hocke sits us down in meetings and we have family time where we get to know each other better as a team on a personal level. We each learn why we all want to be better teammates and how to do that by talking to each other. It helps us get to know each other better and gel together.”

26

2018 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE SEPT 1 SEPT 15 SEPT 22 SEPT 29 OCT 6 OCT 13 OCT OCT NOV NOV NOV NOV DEC

20 27 3 10 17 24 1

VS @ VS @ @ VS @ VS @ VS VS @

GRAMBLING M I S S I S S I P P I S TAT E C O A S TA L C A R O L I N A ALABAMA T E X A S S TAT E N E W M E X I C O S TAT E HOMECOMING

A P PA L A C H I A N S TAT E A R K A N S A S S TAT E TROY G E O R G I A S TAT E SOUTH ALABAMA ULM S U N B E LT C O N F E R E N C E CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

south south

By: Brantley Mathis

By: Brantley Mathis

28

draft picks

1.

2.

3.

4.

6.

6.

(26) Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama (58) Isaiah Oliver, CB, Colorado (90) Deadrin Senat, DT, South Florida (126) Ito Smith, RB, Southern Miss (194) Russell Gage, WR, LSU (244) Foyesade Oluokun, LB, Yale

The 2017 season was a bit of a letdown following the Super Bowl appearance in the previous season. Most organizations would not label it a down year as they posted a 10-6 record, losing in the divisional round to the Eagles 15-10. However, compared to the 2016 season, the offense saw a drop, but still managed to finish eighth in the league in passing offense. Matt Ryan will be starter at quarterback for the eleventh year in a row. With a receiving corps that consists of Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, and rookie Calvin Ridley, I do not see reaching 4,000 passing yards to be a problem for Ryan if all the receivers can stay healthy. Jones looks to make it five 1,000+ receiving yards seasons in a row after logging 1,444 yards in 2017. Running back is a non-issue for the Falcons with Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman returning--one of the best running back duos this season. Freeman missed two games last season, but still managed to accrue 865 yards on the ground. Tight end Austin Hooper showed plenty of promise for the Falcons and should be more involved in his third season. The offensive line looks very strong for the 2018 season. The Falcons did bring in a new face in Brandon Fusco from the 49ers who will likely play right guard. Everyone else is returning from last year and are poised to be one of the best offensive lines in the league. On the defensive line there is a bit of uncertainty. Draftee Deadrin Senat will likely compete for a starting job at defensive tackle. The defensive line will likely see a lot of rotation. Linebacker Vic Beasley returns this season primarily in an edge rusher role. Former LSU linebacker Deion Jones continues to hold down the middle linebacker role for Atlanta with his sideline to sideline play. Duke Riley, also a former LSU linebacker is looking to compete for his starting spot after suffering a knee injury in October of 2017. The secondary for the Falcons is also returning every starter, anchored by Desmond Trufant at cornerback and Keanu Neal at strong safety. The Falcons are poised for a playoff run should they get their defensive line sorted out, and everyone stays healthy.

draft picks

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2.

3.

4.

4.

5.

7.

7.

(24) D.J. Moore, WR, Maryland (55) Donte Jackson, DB, LSU (85) Rashaan Gaulden, S, Tennessee (101) Ian Thomas, TE, Indiana (136) Marquis Haynes, DE, Mississippi (161) Jermaine Carter Jr., LB, Maryland (234) Andre Smith, LB, North Carolina (242) Kendrick Norton, DL, Miami (FL)

The Panthers finished the 2017 campaign with an 11-5 mark, losing to division rival New Orleans Saints in the Wild Card Playoff 31-26. After a lackluster performance on offense last season, Norv Turner replaced Mike Shula as offensive coordinator. As expected Cam Newton will be the day one starter for Carolina. Newton passed for 3,302 yards, adding just 349 on the ground. However, the Panthers still finished with the fourth best rushing yard average in the league at 131.4 a game.

Second year running back Christian McCaffrey will likely start at running back after losing Jonathan Stewart to the Giants. He will inherit more of the run game that Stewart dominated for the Panthers last season as McCaffrey brought in 651 receiving yards. The offensive line has a few holes to fill following the season. Pro-bowl guard Andrew Norwell left for a hot Jacksonville offense. Former LSU guard Trai Turner signed a huge four year $45 million deal before last season so he is locked in. His contract along with Matt Kalil will decide how the Panthers look to fill depth at the guard position. The Eagles brought in Torrey Smith at wide receiver from the Super Bowl Champions to add some much needed speed. First round selection D.J. Moore should see some playing time this season as well. Greg Olsen is coming off a foot injury in 2017 and should slide right back into his spot as one of Newton’s favorite targets. Defensively the Panthers look really strong on the front seven as usual. Linebacker Luke Kuechly played lights out last season bringing in 125 total tackles.

He will lead the Panthers defense this season after losing Pro-Bowl linebacker Thomas Davis. The defensive line has a lot of depth and will rotate to keep guys rested. Veteran Julius Peppers will lead the line coming off an eleven sack season in which he started only five games. He will be in his seventeenth season. Across from Peppers will be Mario Addison who also accounted for eleven sacks. The Panther secondary is the biggest question. There is an open spot that rookie LSU corner Donte Jackson could compete for. This secondary will see a lot of competition in fall camp, and definitely has room for improvement. The offense should flow as normal if Newton can get on the same page as Moore and Smith. However, the fate of the Panthers season could sit in the hands of a very questionable secondary.

south

draft picks

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3.

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5.

6.

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(14) Marcus Davenport, DE, Texas-San Antonio (91) Tre’Quan Smith, WR, Central Florida (177) Rick Leonard, OT, Florida State (164) Natrell Jamerson, S, Wisconsin (189) Kamrin Moore, CB, Boston College (201) Boston Scott, RB, Louisiana Tech (245) Will Clapp, C, LSU

By: Brantley Mathis The New Orleans Saints are coming off an 11-5 season in Sean Peyton’s twelfth season as head coach. During the divisional playoff game last season, safety Marcus Williams missed a tackle allowing Viking’s receiver Stefon Diggs to score a touchdown as time expired, effectively ending the Saints’ season with a 29-24 loss. The offense in 2017 finished second in the league in yards per game at 391.2. Drew Brees will get the start come week one, and he needs just 1,495 more yards to pass the great Peyton Manning for the most passing yards in NFL history. Also returning to the back field is the electrifying duo of Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram. Kamara busted the gates open his rookie season finishing with 728 rushing yards, and 826 receiving yard, while scoring a combined thirteen touchdowns. Look for Brees to continue to find Kamara on passing plays because of his play making abilities. Mark Ingram will begin his eighth season with the Saints on the bench for a PED violation. He eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing last season with twelve touchdowns. Michael Thomas returns this season after being Brees’ favorite target in 2017 totaling 104 catches for 1,245 yards, and five touchdowns.

Thomas is establishing himself as one of the most dominant receivers in the league with his route running ability and incredible hands. Ted Ginn entering his twelfth season-second with the Saints-- will line up across from Thomas. Last season he raked in 787 yards and five touchdowns, while also playing a key role in special teams. The Saints added Cameron Meredith from the Bears, and drafted Tre’Quan Smith to give much needed depth at the receiver position. Benjamin Watson was signed through free agency from the Baltimore Ravens and looks to challenge Josh Hill for the starting position at tight end. The offensive line only allowed twenty sacks, and featured ProBowl guard Larry Warford. All five starters are returning on the line that looked very comfortable working together last season and opened up lanes for the new found running game. Draftee Will Clapp out of LSU will have time to mature under center Max Unger. Overall defensively the Saints made improvements from previous seasons. Their play was inconsistent as they managed twenty interceptions, but gave up a fifth worst 261.8 passing yards a game. Returning at left defensive end for the Saints is veteran Cameron Jordan who finished 2017 with 67 total tackles and 13 sacks. He is one of the most complete defensive ends in the league and is coming off a great season.

Saints drafted defensive end Marcus Davenport who will compete with Alex Okafor for the spot opposite Jordan this season. Davenport had combine measurables similar to Jadeveon Clowney. Sheldon Rankins will line up at defensive tackle in his third season with the Saints, using his big frame to occupy multiple interior offensive lineman. The Saints had the size, but lacked agility at the linebacker position so they signed middle linebacker Demario Davis from the Jets who had 135 combined tackles, as well as 5 sacks. There is plenty of depth at linebacker with Craig Robertson, Manti Te’o, AJ Klein, and Alex Anzalone returning. The Saints secondary will see all four starters returning.

Former Saint Patrick Robinson was picked up again in free agency from the Super Bowl Champion Eagles who will be starting at nickelback. Marshon Lattimore has established himself as a lockdown cornerback in the league. He finished last season with 52 combined tackles, 5 interceptions, one defensive touchdown, and one forced fumble.

Ken Crawley will line up opposite Lattimore again this season. Safety Kurt Coleman was brought in from free agency to add depth and give defensive coordinator Dennis Allen some options in his coveted 3 safety defenses. The bad taste of the playoff loss to the Vikings still lingers in the Saints’ mouths. The Saints are primed for a deep playoff run as rumors swirl that this may be Drew Brees’ last season. The offense will rely heavily on Kamara and Ingram to create rhythm and open up the passing game for Thomas.

The success of the defense will come down to the secondary being able to continue to create turnovers, and they will be helped significantly by an outstanding front seven that terrorizes backfields each week.

29

west By: Brantley Mathis

30

draft picks

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2.

3.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

7.

(9) Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame (44) Dante Pettis, WR, Washington (70) Fred Warner, LB, BYU (95) Tarvarius Moore, DB, Southern Mississippi (128) Kentavius Street, DL, NC State (142) D.J. Reed, CB, Kansas State (184) Marcell Harris, S, Florida (223) Jullian Taylor, DT, Temple (240) Richie James, WR, Middle Tennessee

The San Francisco 49ers finished 6-10 under first season head coach Kyle Shanahan, the offensive minded coach was most recently with the Atlanta Falcons. They finished last in their division, but quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo showed promise for the future after taking over play calling duties from Brian Hoyer going 5-0 late in the season. He’ll return speedster Marquise “Flash” Goodwin at wide receiver who is set to have a breakout season. He’ll be joined by eleventh year receiver Pierre Garcon who is coming back from a neck injury.

Carlos Hyde is no longer with the team, but they picked up Jerick McKinnon which is a potentially big deal. Expect to see him coming out of the back field looking for passes in Shanahan’s offense this season. A lot of question marks exist for the offensive line. The 49ers are returning veteran left tackle Joe Staley. Center Weston Richburg just inked a deal in free agency worth $47.5 million. They traded two of their starters from last season, but signed an extension with Laken Tomlinson, and draftee Mike McGlinchey from Notre Dame will likely come in and start right away. Second season defensive coordinator looks to add to a defense that finished eleventh in run defense and pass defense last season.

Most notably, the 49ers signed Richard Sherman to a three year deal after rival Seattle released him. Overall the secondary is young and unproven, but they are returning starter Ahkello Witherspoon at corner, and K’Waun Williams at nickelback. Former first round pick DeForest Buckner looks to hold down the middle of the defensive line, while Arik Armstead and Solomon Thomas work opposite at defensive end. Linebacker Reuben Foster will miss the first two games of the season because of a suspension. Returning starter Brock Coyle will likely play the middle in his absence, and also watch for draftee Fred Warner to compete for playing time this season. There are a lot of variables at play that will all have to work themselves out for the 49ers to be successful in 2018.

west west

By: Brantley Mathis

By: Brantley Mathis

draft picks

1.

2.

3.

4.

6.

7.

(10) Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA (47) Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M (97) Mason Cole, C, Michigan (134) Chase Edmonds, RB, Fordham (182) Christian Campbell, CB, Penn State (254) Korey Cunningham, OL, Cincinnati

The Cardinals produced an 8-8 season in 2017, and as a result Bruce Arians got the boot.

Enter Steve Wilks who has been with the Carolina Panthers since the 2012 season. He hired Mike McCoy who was brought in as the new offensive coordinator. They drafted quarterback Josh Rosen who had a lot of mixed reviews coming out of college. Sam Bradford also signed with the team in free agency. His most recent stint being with the Vikings. David Johnson will be returning from a broken wrist that kept him sidelined all season. He looks to keep the pressure off of Sam Bradford and the passing game. They got a steal in Christian Kirk at receiver who reminds me a lot of Mike Evans who is from the same Alma Mater. He will join fifteen year veteran Larry Fitzgerald at receiver who finished with 1100 yards in 2017.

The offensive line appears to be in rebuild mode as Justin Pugh and Andre Smith were both brought in to add depth. Pugh will likely start at right guard, and Smith at right tackle.

Big man D.J. Humphries looks to regain his starting role after a gruesome knee injury last season. It should be interesting to see if they can move the right pieces in place up front.

On defense the Cardinals have a few guys to replace including former LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu who signed with the Houston Texans. They will look to transition from a 3-4 scheme to a 4-3 after being dominant on defense the past few seasons. Patrick Peterson, an LSU fan favorite, returns to the secondary in his eighth season, this time without Tramon Williams working at the other corner position. Wilks has said that Josh Bynes will start at middle linebacker, while Chandler Jones and Markus Golden will look to continue terrorizing backfields from the defensive end position. The Cardinals have been dominant on defense in recent seasons, but a transition to the 4-3 might stall them a little this season. The veterans on defense will have to lead, while the offense attempts to figure out a rhythm of its own.

draft picks

3.

4.

4.

5.

6.

6.

6.

6.

7.

7.

(89) Joseph Noteboom, OT, TCU (111) Brian Allen, C, Michigan State (135) John Franklin, DE, Stephen F Austin (147) Micah Kiser, LB, Virginia (176) John Kelly, RB, Tennessee (192) Jamil Demby, OT, Maine (195) Sebastian Joseph, DT, Rutgers (205) Trevon Young, LB, Louisville (231) Travin Howard, LB, TCU (244) Justin Lawler, DE, Southern Methodist

The Los Angeles Rams had a very impressive season under first year coach Sean McVay. The offense finished tenth in total yards, eighth in rushing yards, and tenth in passing yards. The posted an 11-5 record, but could not manage to get past the Atlanta Falcons in the Wild Card Playoff losing 26-13. Jared Goff had an incredible season leading the Rams attack. He will return as the starter with MVP runner-up Todd Gurley lined up behind him at running back. Gurley finished the 2017 campaign with 1,305 yards and thirteen touchdowns. He is entering the last season of his deal. Brandin Cooks was brought in via trade from the Patriots. With Sammy Watkins gone, he will look to be Goff’s receiver of choice. He will line up at slot next to either second year Cooper Kupp or five year veteran Robert Woods. On the offensive line former LSU player Andrew Whitworth returns at left tackle. Jamon Brown who starts at right guard is suspended for the first two games.

Depth is an issue on the line which is why the Rams spent 3 draft picks at that position, so it is imperative they stay healthy. Defensively the Rams finished about the middle of the league, but were fifth in rushing defense last season. The defensive line for the Rams features former LSU end Michael Brockers, Ndamukong Suh, and Aaron Donald. Look for this unit to disrupt a lot of offenses this season. They will anchor the 3-4 defense in year two. After losing Alec Ogletree, Mark Barron will be the sole leader of the linebacker corps. He finished last season with eighty-six total tackles, seventy-three of which were solo. I see draftee Micah Kiser stepping up to compete for time on the field as well as depth is a concern here. Veteran Aqib Talib was traded from the Broncos to the Rams in March of 2018. He will provide leadership in a secondary featuring Marcus Peters who had five interceptions last year. The offense should remain dominant and continue to put points on the board. This season however, the Rams’ success will depend on the ability of the defense to put all the moving parts into one motion.

31

west By: Brantley Mathis

32

draft picks

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(27) Rashaad Penny, RB, San Diego State (79) Rasheem Green, DE, USC (120) Will Dissly, TE, Washington (141) Shaquem Griffin, LB, Central Florida (146) Tre Flowers, S, Oklahoma State (149) Michael Dickson, P, Texas (168) Jamarco Jones, OT, Ohio State

Following this past season, Pete Carroll fired the majority of his staff and brought in a new pair of coordinators. Despite posting a 9-7 record, the Seahawks finished second in the NFC West and failed to qualify for the playoffs. Carroll brings in Brian Schottenheimer to call his offense.

Schottenheimer has jumped from team to team, and also from NFL to NCAA and back, since he began coaching in 1997 with the St. Louis Rams. He will have Russell Wilson at his disposal who finished just shy of 4,000 yards last season, tossing thirty-nine passing yards and adding 586 on the ground. Doug Baldwin returns after reeling in 991 yards with eight touchdowns last season.

Besides Baldwin, the receiving corps is rather quiet, including the likes of Jaron Brown and Tyler Lockett. Rashaad Penny was drafted in the first round after the running backs failed to produce, making Wilson the highest rusher on the team. He is an explosive back with the ability to return kicks as well. Look for him to be involved in the passing game some this season as well. The offensive line is anchored by former LSU guard Ethan Pocic who allowed just two sacks in his rookie campaign. The Seahawks picked up D.J. Fluker in free agency who will provide immediate help at right guard. Justin Britt, one of the league’s’ best centers, returns alongside left tackle Duane Brown. The offensive line looks to be one of the best this season. The Seahawks defense was not its usual self in the 2017 season, and team executives felt as if Richard Sherman was not performing like he should, so he was released. Earl Thomas is the only remaining piece to the once electrifying “Legion of Boom”. Second year cornerback Shaquill Griffin will now be the primary cover corner. Earl Thomas will be joined by returning starter Bradley McDougald who played all over the secondary last season. Former LSU defensive end Barkevious Mingo joins the defensive line, looking to provide much needed pass rush. They also brought in defensive tackle Tom Johnson to partner with Jarran Reed on the interior of the line. Bobby Wagner returns for his seventh season after accounting for 133 total tackles last season. He is joined by returning starter outside linebacker K.J. Wright. The Seahawks do not look to be strong contenders this coming season, but do not look for them to roll over either. They have a lot of moving pieces with new schemes on both sides of the ball so it should be interesting to see how Pete Carroll molds this team moving forward.

north north

By: Tyler Smith

By: Tyler Smith

draft picks

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(28) Terrell Edmunds, S, Virginia Tech (60) James Washington, WR, Oklahoma St. (76) Mason Rudolph, QB, Oklahoma St. (92) Chuks Okorafor, OT, Western Michigan (148) Marcus Allen, S, Penn St. (165) Jaylen Samuels, RB, N.C. State (246) Joshua Frazier, DT, Alabama

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a successful season in 2017 as they posted a 13-3 record but fell short to the Jaguars in the AFC divisional round. The Steelers have a lot of playmakers on offense with superstars like Le’Veon Bell, Antonio Brown and Ben Roethlisberger but in recent years it has been the defense that has been the downfall of this team. After losing captain Ryan Shazier to a freakish spine injury it was obvious that the Steelers need help on the defensive side of the ball. First round pick Terrell Edmunds will provide versatility and hopefully develop into a much needed playmaker in the secondary during his rookie season. The Steelers led the league in sacks last season with 56 and are returning key players in Cameron Heyward and edge rusher T.J. Watt. The defense was close to being back to its dominant self but could not stop running back Leonard Fournette’s rushing attack in both games they played against him. The defense needs to improve and this will be a very important year for defensive coordinator Keith Butler to get things rolling again. After having a potent offense last year the Steelers decided to part ways with OC Todd Haley after his contract expired.

The new offensive coordinator is Randy Fichtner. All eyes will be on Le’Veon Bell once camp starts to see if the Steelers will give him his deserving long term contract. Last season Bell almost did not play because he was put on the franchise tag but this year sources close to the team are expecting a deal before the 2018 season officially starts. Bell gets to run behind 3 pro bowl offensive lineman in tackle Alejandro Villanueva, guard David DeCastro, and center Maurkice Pouncey. Antonio Brown is coming off one of his best years and looks like he is in the prime of his career. With wide receiver Martavis Bryant going to the Oakland Raiders, Juju Smith-Schuster will have a greater role coming off a good rookie season. Second round draft selection James Washington will look to compete for reps during training camp as well and provide great depth. In order for the Steelers to make another super bowl appearance, they will have to get by the Jaguars and Patriots. It should be interesting to see how the Steelers fares out in redemption games against those AFC opponents in 2018.

draft picks

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(25) Hayden Hurst, TE, South Carolina (32) Lamar Jackson, QB, Louisville (83) Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma (86) Mark Andrews, TE, Oklahoma (118) Anthony Averett, CB, Alabama (122) Kenny Young, ILB, UCLA (132) Jaleel Scott, WR, New Mexico St. (162) Jordan Lasley, WR, UCLA (190) Deshon Elliott, S, Texas (212) Greg Senat, OT, Wagner (215) Bradley Bozeman, C, Alabama

The Ravens finished with a 9-7 record for the 2017 season but failed to reach the playoffs for a third consecutive season because of a last second touchdown in a 31-27 loss to the Bengals in week 17. The Ravens battled through a lot of injuries throughout the season and it ended up costing them. Joe Flacco now enters his 11th season as quarterback and question marks are surrounding Flacco and the offense. Flacco has been underperforming and pressure for his starting job is now certain because the Ravens drafted former Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson. They also signed Robert Griffin III (RGIII) during the offseason. Jackson will look to challenge for that starting position come fall camp. Flacco is now 33 years old and has thrown for at least 10+ interceptions every season. It might be unlikely for Lamar Jackson to win the job and start right away, but it is clear that Flacco’s time is running out in Baltimore. Flacco will have Michael Crabtree as his newly added go to receiver after Mike Wallace left and signed with the Eagles. 1,000 yard rusher Alex Collins is back this year and the two tight ends drafted this past April (Hayden Hurst and Mark Andrews) should look to compete for quality reps and add depth at the position. The Ravens take a lot of pride on the defensive side of the ball and have the reputation of playing tough hard hitting football.

That will be no different this year as they return C.J. Mosley, Terrell Suggs, Eric Weddle, and Jimmy Smith. The Ravens are built for a playoff season if they can stay healthy and play better starting at the QB position.

33

north north

By: Tyler Smith

By: Tyler Smith

34

draft picks

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(11) Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Alabama (42) Mike Gesicki, TE, Penn State (73) Jerome Baker, OLB, Ohio State (123) Durham Smythe, TE, Notre Dame (131) Kalen Ballage, RB, Arizona State (209) Cornell Armstrong, CB, Southern Miss (227) Quentin Polling, LB, Ohio (229) Jason Sanders, K, New Mexico

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(1) Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma (4) Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio St. (33) Austin Corbett, G, Nevada (35) Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia (67) Chad Thomas, DE, Miami (105) Antonio Callaway, WR, Florida (150) Genard Avery, ILB, Memphis (175) Damion Ratley, WR, Texas A&M (188) Simeon Thomas, DB, Louisiana-Lafayette

The 2017 season for the Dolphins was a complete disappointment as they finished with a 6-10 record. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill was injured and did not play the whole season. This left the team having to play with Jay Cutler and Matt Sims at quarterback and they were completely inconsistent. Running back Jay Ajayi was traded halfway through the season and this brought the opportunity for Kenyan Drake to the take the lead back role. He showed flashes of being a true every down running back. Now the dolphins added Frank Gore from the Colts in free agency. Drake and Gore should be a good combo for the Dolphins in 2018 with Gore being the short distance back and Drake taking on the receiving downs. At receiver, Jarvis Landry was traded this past off-season so now DeVante Parker and Kenny Stills will get the bulk of targets. Parker battled some injuries last season and was never really able to play up to his true ability. The talented Albert Wilson and experienced Danny Amendola were both signed in free agency to create more weapons for Tannehill to work with. Second round draft pick and tight end Mike Gesicki from Penn State should become the starter and look to have a big role in head coach Adam Gase’s offense. On defense the dolphins struggled just as bad as the offense did. The defense allowed 24 points per game which was almost ranked dead last in the league. Dominant defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is now gone as he signed to play with the Los Angeles Rams this off-season. Now Davon Godchaux gets to step up and take on a larger role. Defensive end Cameron Wake continues to dominate and looks to get double digits sacks for another year. At linebacker Kiko Alonso is back and looks to continue being reliable tackler. In the secondary, first round pick Minkah Fitzpatrick will bring lots of versatility and grit to the field and should be a big time playmaker as a rookie. That’s how talented the former Alabama star defensive back is. Also safety Reshad Jones made the pro bowl after having over 100 tackles and is back with the team. At cornerback Xavien Howard started all 16 games and got better as the season went on. Howard will look to bring that momentum with him going into fall camp. With the roster being revamped it is hard to tell how good the Dolphins will be in 2018. If Ryan Tannehill returns to how he did back in 2016 and the defense improves they will be in position for a wild card push.

draft picks

Head Coach Hue Jackson had another disappointing season as they finished with a 0-16 record. The Browns fired their general manager Sashi Brown in week 13 last season and hired John Dorsey in his place. Dorsey might have taken one of the worst positions to come into in the league’s history but has handled the pressure greatly by making bold moves left and right that is changing the mood in Cleveland to a winning culture. Starting with some coaching changes and front office moves, Dorsey hired new OC Todd Haley from Pittsburgh to help fix the offensive woes and Alonzo Highsmith as vice president of football operations. This past March, Cleveland made more big news in the off-season when they made a trade for former LSU wide receiver Jarvis Landry from the Dolphins, Tyrod Taylor from the Bills, and Demarius Randle from the Packers.

They also signed running back Carlos Hyde in free agency and released Isaiah Crowell.

In the draft, they picked up Baker Mayfield, Denzel Ward, and Nick Chubb. With all this new star power added to the team, the 2018 season will have a very different outlook.

Mayfield is unlikely to win the job for week one but very well might end up as the starter if Tyrod Taylor doesn’t produce early on. Now with Jarvis Landry and Josh Gordon they have one of the top duo receiving corps in the league. The backfield will be much improved and the defense will be more experienced under the second year of defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. The Browns still have a tough schedule but will not be a team to sleep on anymore in 2018.

east

draft picks

By: Tyler Smith

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(21) Billy Price, C, Ohio State (64) Jessie Bates III, S, Wake Forest (77) Sam Hubbard, DE, Ohio State (78) Malik Jefferson, OLB, Texas (112) Mark Walton, RB, Miami (151) Devontae Harris, DB, Illinois State (158) Andrew Brown, DT, Virginia (170) Darius Phillips, CB, Western Michigan (249) Logan Whiteside, QB, Toledo (252) Rod Taylor, OL, Mississippi (253) Auden Tate, WR, Florida State

east

In 2017 the Bengals had a pretty mediocre season with a lot of ups and downs as they finished with a 7-9 record. Only three of the seven total wins came against teams with winning records (Bills, Lions, Ravens). This was the first back to back losing seasons for Cincinnati since the 07-08 seasons. The Bengals did show some promise last season with Joe Mixon even though John Ross had an extremely disappointing rookie season.

Mixon did not start until half way through the season and had missed 2 games late with an injury and still had 600 rushing and 200 receiving yards. Tyler Kroft stepped up for injured tight end Tyler Eifert. A.J. Green had a great first half of the season but produced a quiet second half. This past draft Cincinnati addressed their needs by adding center Billy Price from Ohio State to solidify the offensive line. Price should be a starter come day one. In the off-season they also added tackle Cordy Glenn from Buffalo. On the defense side of the ball, they picked up some playmakers in Jessie Bates III, Sam Hubbard, and Malik Jefferson in the draft. Now new defensive coordinator Teryl Austin will have depth to work with and pieces to move around. Head coach Marvin Lewis enters the season with pressure as they are in a very tough division and have a tough non-division schedule. It might very well be a third consecutive year not making the playoffs for the Cincinnati Bengals.

By: Tyler Smith

draft picks

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(7) Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming (16) Tremaine Edmunds, LB, Virginia Tech (96) Harrison Phillips, DT, Stanford (121) Taron Johnson, CB, Weber State (154) Siran Neal, CB, Jacksonville State (166) Wyatt Teller, G, Virginia Tech (187) Ray-Ray McCloud, WR, Clemson (255) Austin Proehl, WR, North Carolina

The first season for head coach Sean McDermott went well as the Bills ended their 18 year long drought of not making the playoffs. They finished with a 9-7 record and lost to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the Wild Card playoff game. Although they finished with a positive record they still had mediocre quarterback play all year. This led to the Bills trading Tyrod Taylor and drafting Josh Allen as his replacement. They also signed AJ McCarron in free agency. There will be quarterback competition going on in fall camp.

LeSean McCoy had another 1,000+ yards on the ground and at times he showed flashes of his young self running the ball. McCoy will be 30 years old entering his 10th season (4th with Bills). Kelvin Benjamin was traded to the Bills halfway through last season but did not produce much only scoring a touchdown with the team. With a full off-season to learn the offense better expect a better outcome for Benjamin in 2018.

If Benjamin gets back to being a true threat on the outside this will be a scary sight for teams as “Shady” McCoy will face less people in the box. Defensively the Bills showed promise. Former LSU standout and first round pick Tre’Davious White had an excellent rookie season and proved to many that he is a big time cornerback in the league and will be a star for many years. Safety Micah Hyde was selected as a pro bowler and is back for another year. The passing defense was a big strength of the team. With Shaq Lawson, and Kyle Williams returning for another year to go along with the second round draft pick Tremaine Edmunds at linebacker, the Bills will have a defense that will keep them in games. The only concern for Buffalo is the tough division they play in and if they can get over the hump and beat New England. Sean McDermott will be up to the task in year two.

35

east By: Tyler Smith

draft picks

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(23) Isaiah Wynn, OL, Georgia (31) Sony Mitchel, RB, Georgia (56) Duke Dawson, CB, Florida (143) Ja’Whaun Bentley, LB, Purdue (178) Christian Sam, LB, Arizona State (210) Braxton Berrios, WR, Miami (219) Danny Etling, QB, LSU (243) Keion Crossen, DB, Western Carolina (250) Ryan Izzo, TE, Florida State

The New England Patriots reached the Super Bowl for the third time in four years and lost to the Eagles in a 41-33 thriller. Tom Brady threw for 505 yards and 3 touchdowns on 28 completions. That was the most yards ever thrown in a Super Bowl game. Tom Brady will be 41 years old entering his nineteenth season and is still showing no signs of slowing down.

Rob Gronkowski is in the prime of his career at age 29 but was contemplating retirement from the league. This might be the last season that Brady and “Gronk” play together in New England. The Patriots went 13-3 last season but lost a lot of productive players to the off-season. Malcolm Butler, Dion Lewis, Nate Solder, and Danny Amendola all decided to sign elsewhere in free agency leaving the Patriots with holes to fill. Former LSU standout running back Jeremy Hill and wide receiver Jordan Matthews from the Bills signed free agent contracts to join the Patriots. In early April, Brandin Cooks was traded to the Los Angeles Rams. Cooks had over 1,000 yards and it will be hard to replace that productivity. Some good news for Patriots fans is that they got to keep their offensive coordinator in Josh McDaniels and wide receiver Julian Edelman is returning although he has to serve a 4 game suspension to start the season. In the draft they signed Isaiah Winn and Sony Michel from Georgia.

Both of them are expected to have big roles on the offense. On defense, linebacker Dont’a Hightower is back after not playing most of the season last year to an injury, and they drafted cornerback Duke Dawson out of Florida. With Matt Patricia leaving to take the head coaching job with the Detroit Lions, new defensive coordinator Brian Flores will have a talented roster to work with and head coach Bill Belichick looks to get the Patriots to their 4th super bowl appearance in 5 years.

east south

By: Tyler Smith

By: Tyler Smith

draft picks

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(3) Sam Darnold, QB, USC (72) Nathan Sheppard, DT, Fort Hays State (107) Chris Herndon, TE, Miami (179) Parry Nickerson, CB, Tulane (180) Folorunso Fatukasi, DL, Connecticut (204) Trenton Cannon, RB, Virginia State

The New York Jets did not have high expectations for the 2017 season as many thought they did not have a roster talented enough to make a push for the playoffs. They started out winning 3 out of the first 5 games but only ended up winning two more games after week 5 finishing with a 5-11 overall record. Quarterback Josh McCown had an average season throwing for 18 touchdowns and 9 intercepts. The Jets needed a franchise player at the position so they decided to draft Sam Darnold in the first round with the 3rd overall pick. Teddy Bridgewater also was added to the roster for quarterback depth through the off-season. There will be quarterback competition in fall camp for the starting spot. At running back last season the Jets showed that they were able to have an effective run game. Former Louisiana-Lafayette running back Elijah McGuire and Bilal Powell proved to be effective rushers and pass catchers in the league. With Matt Forte retiring, so the team signed Isaiah Crowell in the off-season. Now with a three headed backfield it will be interesting to see how the game unfolds come preseason. I see all three getting playing time this year. At wide receiver, Robby Anderson and Jermaine Kearse emerged as two underrated receivers in the league. Both of them are back with the team in 2018 along with the addition of Terrelle Pryor. Pryor spent last season with the Redskins and battled through injuries, now he gets another chance with the Jets. On defense, the Jets struggled to stop the run and only had 20 total turnovers on the season (11 interceptions, 9 fumble recoveries). The Jets allowed 100+ rushing yards to opposing teams 10 times last season. Some bad news for Jets fans is that leading tackler Demario Davis left and signed with the New Orleans Saints. But the good news is that Daron Lee has played well and improved each year so he will have more expectations at inside linebacker now having a full season under his belt as a starter. Jamal Adams out of LSU brought leadership to the secondary. Adams started all 16 games and finished with 82 tackles, 2 sacks and 6 pass breakups. Trumaine Johnson from the Rams signed a contract in free agency. The addition of Johnson to go along with Adams, Marcus Maye, Morris Claiborne, Rashard Robinson and Parry Nickelson should pan out to be a tough secondary to match up with. Now entering his 4th year as head coach, Todd Bowles comes into the 2018 season with a lot of pressure to get things turned around. Hopefully Sam Darnold can emerge as the franchise quarterback and the New York Jets can improve on their record from last year.

draft picks

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(72) Justin Reid, S, Stanford (80) Martinas Rankin, C, Mississippi State (98) Jordan Akins, TE, Central Florida (103) Keke Coutee, WR, Texas Tech (177) Duke Ejiofor, DE, Wake Forest (211) Jordan Thomas, TE, Mississippi State (214) Peter Kalambayi, OLB, Stanford (222) Jermaine Kelly, CB, San Jose State

The Houston Texans season in 2017 was tough to watch at times as injuries doomed any serious chance for a successful season. They finished with a 4-12 overall record. The team had high hopes at the beginning of the season but that all came falling down when star players Deshaun Watson and J.J. Watt went down to season ending injuries. Watson started his first game on week 2 in a Thursday night matchup with the Bengals. The Texans won the game behind a 49 yard touchdown run from Watson. The next 5 games were all dominated by Watson as he threw for multiple touchdowns and was making superstar plays left and right. The Texans were looking like the most explosive offense in the league until Watson got injured. Top receiver DeAndre Hopkins had a special season as he finished with 96 catches for 1,378 yards and league leading 13 touchdowns. Will Fuller had 7 touchdowns in 4 games when Watson started. Fuller ended up going down with a season ending injury as well. It will be exciting to watch Watson, Hopkins and Fuller gash teams through the air in 2018. At running back Lamar Miller had over 800 yards while D’Onta Foreman and Alfred Blue provide quality reps at backup. All three are back for another year and should complement each other well. Lamar Miller was held back by a lack of a passing threat when backup Tom Savage played quarterback. With Watson back at starting quarterback, teams will have to respect the Texans pass game which will in return create more opportunities for Miller to break loose since he will face less defenders in the box. The offensive line needs to improve.

Martinas Rankin was drafted in the second round and if he provides the toughness the Texans are looking for, he will get the chance to start right away. On defense, the Texans were inconsistent last year. Their pass defense got exposed and after losing JJ Watt and Whitney Mercilus to injuries the defense could not maintain its dominant image. Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney was selected to the pro bowl as he was one positive take away from the defense last year. In the off-season the defense signed former LSU star defensive back Tyrann Mathieu to a 1 year deal. The defense will be much improved next season, and head coach Bill O’Brien who is entering his 5th year with the team will have his best team to date. Expect the Texans to challenge the Jaguars as those division matchups will be very important for deciding the AFC south crown.

37

south south

By: Tyler Smith

By: Tyler Smith

38

draft picks

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(29) Taven Bryan, DT, Florida (69) DJ Chark, WR, LSU (93) Ronnie Harrison, S, Alabama (129) Will Richardson, T, North Carolina State (203) Tanner Lee, QB, Nebraska (230) Leon Jacobs, LB, Wisconsin (247) Logan Cooke, P, Mississippi State

The Jacksonville Jaguars took the league by surprise last year making it all the way to the AFC championship game and losing a nail biter to the New England Patriots. They finished with a 10-6 record and had the most dominant defense in the league. Final stat line for the defense was 55 sacks, 21 interceptions, 12 fumble recoveries, and only allowed 286 ypg, (only 169 pass yards allowed per game). Defensive Coordinator Todd Wash enters his 3rd season with the team and got the Jaguars to an elite level. In the draft, the defense played “bully” and drafted 2 more defenders in defensive tackle Taven Bryan out of Florida and Ronnie Harrison from Alabama that will come in and add quality depth and back up playing time. Bryan fits the attacking 4-3 defense style Jacksonville likes to run, and Harrison is a really talented safety coming from a system that produces NFL ready defensive backs. There were 6 players on the defense selected to the pro bowl. Star cornerbacks Jalen Ramsey, and A.J. Bouye, star defensive ends Calais Campbell, and Yannick Ngakoue, defensive tackle Malik Jackson, and linebacker Tevin Smith all made the pro bowl. For how good of a season the Jaguars had last season they still had average quarterback play with Blake Bortles.

Bortles needs to take a huge step forward if they want to make it over the hump and reach the super bowl. Defenses will not respect the passing game until he makes that jump forward. Former star LSU running back Leonard Fournette had 1,000+ yards on the season even though he battled an ankle injury that forced him to miss three games and was running the ball into 9 man looks in the box. Fournette trimmed up a little bit and is now weighing in at 228 pounds and will be way more explosive and quicker. What is scary to think about is that Fournette had the fastest run in miles per hour last season weighing at 240 pounds. Fournette will have a monster year for his sophomore season if he can stay healthy. On the offensive line Cam Robertson is entering his second year as the starting left tackle. At the wide receiver position the Jaguars have great depth in Marqise Lee, Keelan Cole, Dede Westbrook and now newly added second round pick and former LSU wide receiver D.J. Chark. The Jaguars will be one of best teams in the league and if they can get better quarterback play with Bortles they will be the favorites to win the AFC.

draft picks

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(22) Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama (41) Harold Landry, DE, Boston College (152) Dane Cruikshank, S, Arizona (199) Luke Falk, QB, Washington State

The Titans in 2017 reached the playoffs and lost to the New England Patriots in the AFC Divisional round. They finished the regular season with a 9-7 record and rallied from a 21-3 halftime deficit to win the wild card playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. This was the first playoff win for the Titans since 2003. Head coach Mike Mularkey and the Titans decided to part ways following the divisional round loss to the Patriots. Mike Vrabel is now the new head coach and comes into his first season with a talented roster. Starting with the quarterback position, Marcus Mariota is going into his 4th year with the most expectations put on him so far in his young career. Following the playoff win, pressure will now be on Mariota to lead them back to the playoffs for a second consecutive year. One thing Marcus Mariota needs to improve on is his efficiency. After throwing for 26 touchdowns and 9 interceptions for his sophomore year, last season he followed that up by throwing for 13 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. At times he can make bad decisions with the ball but played better in the playoffs. Now new offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur who was with the Los Angeles Rams and was credited for developing quarterback Jared Goff, gets to work with Mariota and call the plays for the Titans. At running back Derrick Henry came along last season rushing for a decent 744 yards and 5 touchdowns. Needing to fill a hole, Dion Lewis was signed in free agency.

Lewis and Henry should be a nice speed and power combo for the 2018 season. Lewis will handle the passing downs most likely and Henry will be a short yardage and goal line bruiser. Marcus Mariota’s favorite target Delanie Walker is returning along with both receivers Rishard Matthews and Corey Davis. The Colts offensive line allowed 27 sacks on the regular season but 10 in two games during the playoffs. The Titans will need better pass protection in the big games. On defense, cornerback Malcolm Butler from the Patriots was signed to bring veteran leadership and play alongside Kevin Byard, Johnathan Cyprien, and Adoree Jackson. First round draft pick Rashaad Evans will step in and make a lot of plays at linebacker this year. Expecting a good rookie year for Evans playing on the side of Wesley Woodyard. On the defense line Jurrell Casey and Bennie Logan return and second round draft pick Harold Landry will battle for playing time at Defensive End. The Titans have an explosive offensive and will be pushing for another wild card playoff spot playing in a hot division.

south

draft picks

By: Tyler Smith

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(6) Quenton Nelson, G, Notre Dame (36) Darius Leonard, LB, South Carolina St. (37) Braden Smith, G, Auburn (52) Kemoko Turay, DE, Rutgers (64) Tyquan Lewis, DE, Ohio State (104) Nyheim Hines, RB, North Carolina State (159) Daurice Fountain, WR, Northern Iowa (169) Jordan Wilkins, RB, Mississippi (185) Deon Cain, WR, Clemson (221) Matthew Adams, LB, Houston (235) Zaire Franklin, LB, Syracuse

west

The Indianapolis Colts finished with a 4-12 record last season and did not show much promise besides wide receiver TY Hilton and tight end Jack Doyle making the pro bowl. This performance lead to the Colts and head coach Chuck Pagano parting ways and leading the team to sign Frank Reich to take his place. Reich was the offensive coordinator for the super bowl winning Eagles this past season before joining the Colts. Coach Reich and the front office are already making moves as the Colts had one of the best drafts this past April. All of their picks fit the needs of the team and provide playmaking ability. First round pick offensive guard Quenton Nelson will be an instant starter and provide much needed protection for Andrew Luck. Luck looks to prove he is the same quarterback he once was back in 2016.

At running back Marlon Mack looks to take the leading role even though he underwent a shoulder surgery in the off-season. Receiver TY Hilton looks to get back to 1,000+ yards after falling just short of that mark last season finishing with 966 yards. TY Hilton continues to be consistent. Jack Doyle and Ryan Grant will also give Luck some targets to pass to.

On defense the Colts got scored on a lot last year. Although it was a rough year there was a couple young players that showed good potential as a group in linebackers Antonio Morrison and Jon Bostic, and defensive backs Matthias Farley, and Malik Hooker. New coach Frank Reich has a lot of young talent to work with and will probably be watching a lot of shoot outs if Andrew Luck comes out slinging the ball like he did before he got injured. After winning only 4 games the Colts will look double their wins from last year.

By: Tyler Smith

draft picks

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(46) Breeland Speaks, DE, Ole Miss (75) Derrick Nnadi, DT, Florida State (100) Dorian O’Daniel, OLB, Clemson (124) Armani Watts, S, Texas A&M (196) Tremon Smith, CB, Central Arkansas (198) Reginald McKenzie Jr., DL, Tennessee

The Kansas City Chiefs started the 2017 season with a bang going 5-0 making people believe they were the dark horse to win the AFC but ended up losing the next 6 out of 7 games. The Chiefs would finish the season with a 10-6 record and lose to the Titans in the AFC Wild Card playoff game. Alex Smith had a great year throwing for 4,042 yards, 26 touchdowns and 5 interceptions but the organization is looking to build for the future at quarterback with Pat Mahomes as the Chiefs decided to trade Alex Smith to the Washington Redskins for cornerback Kendall Fuller. Mahomes now takes full control of the offense and has the opportunity to succeed immediately as he will be surrounded by playmakers in Travis Kelce, Kareem Hunt and Tyreek Hill. Sammy Watkins was brought in through free agency and will look to stretch the field vertically with Hill on the outside.

Kareem Hunt had a sensational rookie season as he led the league in rushing yards with 1,327. The offensive line had a solid year in 2017 and Mitchell Schwartz is returning for another year as one of the best right tackles in the game. Schwartz faces the likes of Von Miller, Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa twice a year and facing that elite competition is what separates Schwartz from other tackles.

The Chiefs have one of best offenses in the NFL and with offensive coordinator Matt Nagy leaving to join the Chicago Bears, head coach Andy Reid promoted running backs coach Eric Bieniemy to the new position. Bieniemy and Reid are both great offensive minded coaches and 2018 should see the same success but with a higher ceiling. Defensively the Chiefs ranked 28th out of 32 teams after allowing 365 yards per game. The Chiefs need to improve greatly on defense and should be in position to do so after using all of their 6 draft picks on the defensive side of the ball. With cornerback Marcus Peters getting traded to the Los Angeles Rams and Bennie Logan signing to play elsewhere the defense will have some new faces. Justin Houston, Reggie Ragland, and Eric Berry all return and look to bring their veteran leadership to the defense. New comer Kendall Fuller will be a great add at nickel. The Chiefs have a really talented roster and the success of the team will ride on the shoulders of first year starter Patrick Mahomes. If the defense gets improved I see another special season for Kansas City in 2018.

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west By: Tyler Smith

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draft picks

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(17) Derwin James, S, Florida State (48) Uchenna Nwosu, LB, USC (84) Justin Jones, DE, North Carolina State (119) Kyzir White, S, West Virginia (155) Scott Quessenberry, C, UCLA (191) Dylan Cantrell, WR, Texas Tech (251) Justin Jackson, RB, Northwestern

The Chargers spent their first year in Los Angeles last year and head coach Anthony Lynn in his first season almost got the team to make the playoffs despite starting the season with an 0-4 record. They would go on to finish the year with a 9-7 overall record but fall just short of making the playoffs. Quarterback Philip Rivers had a great year throwing for 4,515 yards, 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. The offense returns Rivers favorite target in Keenan Allen who had 102 catches for 1,392 yards and 6 touchdowns and running back Melvin Gordon who racked up 1,105 yards and 8 touchdowns. However Rivers will not have tight end Hunter Henry for the 2018 season as he tore his ACL in the off-season. Longtime tight end and future hall of famer Antonio Gates is no longer with team so Virgil Green will look to step in at the position for the injured Henry. Receivers Tyrell Williams, Travis Benjamin, and Mike Wallace all are returning. The offensive line was dominate for the Chargers as Rivers only got sacked 18 times in 2017. Pro bowl left tackle Russell Okung looks to have another great year.

Defensively the Chargers played great especially down the stretch of the season. The Chargers got a steal with Derwin James at pick 17 in the first round. James will be a playmaker in the secondary and look to start right away. Casey Hayward proved he was an elite cornerback and can match up with the number one wide receiver every week.

Joey Bosa continues to emerge as one of the best defensive ends in the league as he finished with 12 sacks on the year. Linebacker Melvin Ingram had another 10 sack season as well. The Chargers will be a sleeper top 5 defense this year and will battle with the Kansas City Chiefs for the AFC West division.

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draft picks

By: Tyler Smith

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(5) Bradley Chubb, Edge, NC State (40) Courtland Sutton, WR, SMU (71) Royce Freeman, RB, Oregon (99) Isaac Yiadom, CB, Boston College (106) Josey Jewell, ILB, Iowa (113) DaeSean Hamilton, WR, Penn State (156) Troy Fumagalli, TE, Wisconsin (183) Sam Jones, OL, Arizona State (217) Keishawn Bierria, LB, Washington (226) David Williams, RB, Arkansas

west

The Broncos season was a complete mess for first year head coach Vance Joseph as the team could not get any real productivity from their quarterback play and finished with an 5-11 record.

Trevor Siemian, Brock Osweiler, and Paxton Lynch all got the opportunity to play but had below average results. This led the team to signing Case Keenum in the off-season. Keenum took the Minnesota Vikings to the playoffs after Sam Bradford went down to a season ending injury. Keenum played well with the Vikings throwing for 3,547 yards, 22 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions.

He now comes into an offense with Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders as his top targets. Thomas and Sanders have been underperforming due to poor quarterback play but the expectations for a huge year are now back due to Keenum being a reliable game manager. Second round pick Courtland Sutton will look to emerge as another top target for Keenum. 1,000 yard rusher C.J. Anderson is not with the team anymore as he signed a deal with the Carolina Panthers this off-season. The hole at running back looks to be filled by third round draft pick Royce Freeman out of Oregon and Devontae Booker providing a good competition for the spot in fall camp. The offensive line had a poor year but a lot of it was due to the quarterback play. Expect a different outlook for the offensive line with Garett Bolles at left tackle. Defensively the Broncos have been one of the best defenses in the league and even though they lost 11 games last year, the defense was still ranked in the top 3 in total yards allowed, only giving up 290 yards per game. Now first round pick Bradley Chubb will line up across from Von Miller and that should be a scary sight for offensive lines who have to face the edge rushers. Cornerback Aqib Talib was traded to the Los Angeles Rams but Chris Harris Jr is still on the team and looks to have another big year at age 29. Inside linebacker Brandon Marshall is back after recording 102 tackles and 2 sacks last year. Denver will have one of the top defenses again this year and with Keenum taking over at quarterback the Broncos will have the pieces for a playoff push in 2018.

By: Tyler Smith

draft picks

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(15) Kolton Miller, OT, UCLA (57) P.J. Hall, DT, Sam Houston St (65) Brandon Parker, OT, North Carolina A&T (87) Arden Key, DE/LB, LSU (110) Nick Nelson, CB, Wisconsin (140) Maurice Hurst, DT, Michigan (173) Johnny Townsend, P, Florida (216) Azeem Victor, LB, Washington (228) Marcell Ateman, WR, Oklahoma State

The Oakland Raiders finished with a 6-10 record in 2017 which resulted in the firing of head coach Jack Del Rio following a 4 game losing streak to end the year. Jon Gruden was hired in the off-season and rejoins the Raiders as head coach again after being around the sport as a commentator on Monday Night Football for 8 years. Quarterback Derek Carr is coming off of a pro bowl year in which he threw for 3,496 yards with 22 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. Derek Carr’s success comes from the Raiders offensive line. Carr has a lot of time to throw and was only sacked 20 times all year. Left tackle Donald Penn, left guard Kelechi Osemele, and center Rodney Hudson all made the pro bowl off of the Raiders offensive line. Derek Carr’s favorite target in Michael Crabtree is not with the team anymore as he signed a free agency deal with the Baltimore Ravens.

Now Amari Cooper looks to get back to 1,000+ yards on the season after following a somewhat down sophomore season. Jordy Nelson was also added through free agency and the team traded for Martavis Bryant from the Steelers in the off-season. Nelson could have a sneaky good year and Bryant will provide depth and a good wide receiver 3 option. Tight end Jared Cook is returning for another year after leading the team with 688 yards. Marshawn Lynch had a decent year rushing for 897 yards and 7 touchdowns but is now 32 years of age. Defensively the Raiders have a lot of question marks except at defensive end where Khalil Mack returns after a third straight pro bowl year recording 78 tackles and 10 ½ sacks. The secondary struggled after ranking 26th is pass defense, but 12th in defending the rush. Both safeties are returning for another year in Karl Joseph and Reggie Nelson. Third round draft pick Arden Key will look to compete right away for a spot at either defensive end or outside linebacker. Key and Mack will be one of top pass rushing duos in the league. With new head coach Jon Gruden coming in to reshape the identity of the team, expect Oakland to be a lot more tough minded and better all around.

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