Next in the tier of how far you want to look down the road as you build your team are the up and coming squads that might need a season or two before they’re ready to contend in the playoffs. Some of these teams may not seem like they’re even close, but it’s important to see the overall strength of what might be a style or type in the making. The fun part about Franchise is taking a team from a list such as this one and making the necessary adjustments to turn them into a championship team quickly.
team 5
Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks lost some key players over the last few seasons, which has put them into a small rebuilding phase. They have one of the strongest defenses in the league, but both their running and passing game are suffering compared to recent years. Looking for key recruits like a strong HB and another WR to play alongside Doug Baldwin can really turn this team’s offense around, giving them a much better chance at competing than they have this year. Because of their strong defense, making minor adjustments there may not be required, but you definitely need to back them up on the offensive end to put points on the board.
team 4
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys should not have a problem scoring via their passing game this season. However, if they plan on passing when matched up against a roster with a great air defense, they need some major improvements from the running backs. Tony Romo should have no problems getting the ball out of his hands as he has one of the best offensive lines in the league defending him. However, the new gap play gaining a HB with a high Awareness rating, as well as the ability to break tackles, should turn this team around very quickly.
team 3
Oakland Raiders
This is a team that has been up and coming for a few years now. Even though they might not quite be ready to win a championship, the Oakland Raiders have been in a very successful rebuilding stage recently. They now have a young but experienced QB leading the charge with a defense that wins games. What the Raiders still lack is a strong running back who can make plays. Find a Playmaker HB or even a TE who can catch on the run. Slants and HB Dive will become staples in the Raiders’ offense.
team 2
Cincinnati Bengals
Cincinnati is another great team that’s just coming out of its rebuilding phase. Now with a solid starting roster, the Bengals have made leaps and bounds over the last year. After a major loss of some of their veterans, this team has gained a few key players, including receivers who can outrun and out-maneuver almost every CB in the league. Once again, however, if you can score a few points just to have the other team answer back, winning games will not be in your future and that will be the case with this team until the backfield shapes up a bit. Hire some players to play your zone defense and you’ll be in business.
team 1
Kansas City Chiefs
After being playoff contenders for a few years now, the Kansas City Chiefs have still failed to deliver in their postseason performances. Getting points on the board is of the utmost importance when it comes to this team’s playstyle because of their ever improving defense. This year the defense should still have little problem holding back the opposition, but now with some experienced WRs and a good HB, the team is set up to do well. Hiring someone to protect the QB might be beneficial, giving him that extra time to make something happen.