Off-Season NFL Moves

If you're a Colts fan then you're happy with last year. If you're a Bears fan, you are probably a little less happy, and a little frustrated. If you're a fan of any other NFL team, then you're most likely hoping that your football team made some smart draft picks and trades this off-season. As the previous National Football League season came to a close, many teams were left disappointed, and others were already planning their moves for next season.Of course the Indianapolis Colts are contented with their performance. Regardless, it is inevitable that each franchise of the professional football league will attempt to make the right moves in order to become the next Superbowl champions.

The NFL draft escorts football fans to the one yard line in preparation for the opening kickoff. The 2007 draft that, along with player trades and staffing changes, creates each team's off-season strategy and offers new hope for making it to the Superbowl.

Undoubtedly, any sport fans would know that off-season tactics are crucial to the pursuit to a successful NFL season. Innovative and energizing coaches and staff members play a huge role in success of any football team. Selecting an incompatible coach or supporting staff could lead to an ineffective team and an unsuccessful season.

The reigning Superbowl champions Indianapolis Colts have the critical task of continuing their successful strategies that dominated last season. What most fans would like to know is this: what are the not-so-impressive franchises doing to improve their teams for this upcoming season The 2007 draft secured many new star athletes and the trades will most likely improve the quality of many second-rate teams. Additionally, a number of teams that performed poorly last year added new staff and replaced coaches.

Let's consider the Raiders; they had one of the worst National Football League records during the 2006-2007 season. The owner of course, recognized the unfortunate circumstances that this franchise had encountered once again. They find themselves in the need of a serious change. During the draft, the Raiders managed to secure the number one draft pick, JaMarcus Russell. It is reported that this extraordinary quarterback is looking explosive in practice; so explosive that they are negotiating a $30 million contract. This is huge for a rookie. It is speculated that he may be crowned Rookie of the Year or Most Valuable Player this upcoming season. Raider Nation will also be introduced to a new rookie coach by the name of Lane Kiffin. Kiffin is excited about Russell and is anticipating playing him in the season opener unless he melts down in the pre-season. The combination should make for huge improvements for this franchise.

Another team that experienced a disappointing season is the Detroit Lions, who coincidently traded Mike Williams, wide receiver and Josh McCown, back-up quarterback, to the Oakland Raiders.The Honolulu Blue reveals that the team lacks chemistry and is not a well-rounded group. However, outside of the Oakland trade, other strategies were employed to improve the quality of the Detroit Lions. T. J. Duckett signed on as a free-agent contract to be a part of the rotation at running back. Head coach, Rod Marinelli states that Duckett has good speed, so he can make the punishing yards. Duckett appears poised to become a fantastic asset for the Lions this year. Duckett delivered an amazing game as back-up for Warrick Dunn with the Atlanta Falcons in 2003.

Other franchises such as the New England Patriots, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Dallas Cowboys, the New Orleans Saints, the Washington Redskins as well as the Superbowl underdogs, the Chicago Bears have also developed and followed through with plans to improve their status in the football pool. The New England Patriots recently added the big name Randy Moss. This controversial star was traded from the Oakland Raiders. Even as that decision initially granted doubt amongst the minicamp, the Patriots focus remained the same. Their focus is on building a team that excels together. The Patriots have a way of turning rebellious players into team players, so Moss will likely do just fine in New England.

Donovan McNabb is still recovering from a season-damaging knee injury that occurred last November. So, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback will be forced to miss early exhibition action, according to head coach Andy Reid. However, there is really no concern about McNabb being prepared for the opening pre-season game.

The Dallas Cowboys have been working hard this off-season. Toby Rome will be returning as their starting quarterback. Wade Phillips is their new head coach. Dallas plans on incorporating more defenses this season and they hired a new offensive coordinator, Jason Garrett. America's team

The New Orleans Saints signed on a fourth-round draft pick and offensive tackle, Jerome Bushrod. He recently signed a three year contract as he is already taking the franchise by storm. The Saints feel that he will be a star for the team.

Two remaining draft picks are currently in the line-up for contracts; the first round draft pick wide receiver, Robert Meachem and fourth round pick, running back, Antonio Pittman. Furthermore, an unfortunate accident has left the Washington Redskins in search of a linebacker. A nasty motorcycle accident has left LaVar Arrington with a broken arm and leg. The rookie Laran Landry, safety, is predicted to be a major threat as well as the old faithful, C. Portis. It may be possible that the efforts to enhance the status of the Redskin morale will prove worthy.

And finally, the Indianapolis Colts, the 06-07 Superbowl champions are looking forward to repeating a spectacular season. The Colts capitalized on a nine card selection in this past April's 2007 National Football League draft. Colts president is content with where the franchise is headed and wants to be very strategic with next season's agenda by optimizing the team's off- season conditioning program. The Superbowl underdogs Chicago Bears are concentrating on getting healthy. Two key defensive players were cleared after surgery and participated in the off-season team drills. The Bears are also excited about signing on the fullback Obafemi Ayanbadejo out of Arizona. If the Bears make it to the Superbowl this year, they're sure to have a better showing.

The 2007-2008 NFL season looks like it's shaping up to be competitive and exciting. Of course, the Indianapolis Colts are pleased with their next to flawless season and aren't planning too many major changes. They are by far, the team to defeat. Is it possible for them to refocus and mesmerize fans with a repeat The Oakland Raiders and the Detroit Lions have set the pace for at least a respectful season. The New England Patriots look like they will be a Superbowl contender again this year. Drafts, trades, coaching changes and new strategies all make up the off-season moves that offer each team a renewed chance to win the Superbowl.Are you ready for some football!