04-03-2020, 03:26 PM
(This post was last modified: 04-03-2020, 03:27 PM by mithrandir.)
I have interviewed a general manager from each NSFL franchise, asking them questions about the team culture, identity, history, and draft needs. I have edited and compiled their answers, and will provide brief comments on the answers of each team. Like my DSFL rookie draft guide, I hope this will allow rookies to figure out which teams are good fits for their personality, position, and football preferences, and focus much of their attention on the recruiters from those teams.
Arizona Outlaws
Interview with dankoa
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
We have a focus on a friendly and relaxed culture in the locker room, with a good mix of vets and new guys. We are trying to install something of a winning culture with this new incarnation of the team to take us back to our glory days of the past.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
Anyone who is chill, enjoys getting to know new people, wants to build a great player and be a part of a good team environment is a super welcome add to our team culture
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
Not enough. (According to my own research, the Arizona Outlaws have won 4, including the first 3 in league history)
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
We could use some help rounding out our defense; probably a couple DBs, a lineman and a linebacker would be among our biggest needs.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Our main identity comes from our QB, Jay Cue. He’s the dynamite of our offense and the building block that all our play starts with.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Outlaws?
We’re a chilled out but driven team with a very bright future. Come be a part of something that’s going to be very special, very soon
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Arizona's GM used the word "chill" twice, so that seems to be the best description of this team. They are built around QB Jay Cue but need to improve on defense. They have loaded up on draft picks, with nine in the first five rounds, so if you're a defensive player projected for rounds three through five, Arizona is a very likely landing spot for you.
Austin Copperheads
Interview with mooty99
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
The culture of Austin is all about having a relaxed, fun locker room and always building our team for long term gains. A great locker room culture keeps people active and engaged, and through it the team can thrive. That is the reason our title banner has 'we build houses' on it.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We are looking for players that fit and gel with our current squad. Personality fit is very important, more so than TPE level. We look for relaxed, down to earth people who would get on, add and thrive in our locker room culture. We have an open locker room area so if a rookie wants to get an invite just let me know.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We are a relatively new team, we started in the league in season 16 (with the Chicago) during the last expansion. But as you may well know we won the season 20 title last year, the 1st of many to come hopefully.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
This is difficult to say before the expansion draft hits us. Currently just due to players regressing we would be looking for additions to the defensive line, the defensive backs and another offensive weapon.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Currently we have a strong balanced offensive with talent across the board at QB, RB, WR and TE. At the moment we tend to play as a pass heavy offensive, spreading the ball to multiple receiving threats.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Copperheads?
A rookie should want to be in Austin as we have a fun, relaxed locker room environment that is free of drama and a great place to be. With users covering 3 continents there is normal someone awake to chat to. If a player is looking to win sooner rather than later then Austin is also certainly the place to be, our Ultimus window is definitely still open and will be for a number more seasons to come.
Mithrandir's Commentary: As the defending champs, the Copperheads don't need to sell us on their future success: they have tangible evidence they are a good team. Nevertheless, their focus on long-term gains in the future is an attractive quality that makes me think their success will continue. As I've mentioned in other media, DB and DL are in high demand, as both ARI and AUS mentioned those needs. Austin might also appeal to wide receivers and other offensive playmakers who want to be part of a high powered pass-heavy offense.
Baltimore Hawks
Interview with Duilio05
It was not always clear which answers go with which question, but I'll do my best to try to sort his answer into the correct questions.
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Baltimore is one of the original NSFL teams, a full 21 seasons of history. We have the most players in the Hall of Fame and only Otters have been to the Ultimus more times.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We are a quiet team that has enjoyed an exclusive locker room style atmosphere, a place to chill away from the chaos of the General chat. Maybe we're not partying every night like some teams, but we got a solid [camaraderie] with each other.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
Duilio did not answer this question, but the Hawks, have won two and lost six Ultimus Bowls.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Our three biggest needs are Defense, Defense and more Defense.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
We have been a very balanced team this year. We contribute [sic.] this to having one of the best QB/WR tandems in league history, and the best RB duo currently in the league.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Hawks?
A rookie should want to join Baltimore because there is unparalleled opportunity. We are transitioning to a much younger team that will blossom together in 3 seasons time to produce a very strong 3-6 season window of opportunity to win the Ultimus.
We also have the Wing of Honor, a Hawks tradition that honors the best of the best in Hawks history, and one of the oldest team traditions in the league. One of the minimum requirements is to play over half of one's career as a Hawk. Being drafted to Baltimore is a great way to start one's journey of being inducted. Finally I'm the only one of the FabV with an Ultimus Ring.
mithrandir: What does FabV GM mean?
Duilio05: ah FabV is what shadyshoelaces, terriblehippo, baron1989, fricknasty and I called ourselves during our rookie DSFL season. inside joke/poke
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Baltimore's answers were quite fractured and unorganized. It seems they have a lot of great history and tradition, and yet again have a major need at defense. They say that their championship window is three seasons out, so S22 rookies drafted by BAL will be hitting their prime at precisely the right time. In mock drafts, I've seen Baltimore taking multiple DBs in the first few rounds.
Chicago Butchers
Interview with Bayley
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Currently, we are in a little bit of a turmoil with everything going on. I really am taking the time to learn about people on Chicago. I had a good conversation about bagels with HEOB yesterday as well as another member of the team this morning. I felt like it was a productive conversation. I would be silly not to realize that we have some work to do, but we want to keep the people who want to be in Chicago here, as well as look to bring in more members that want to be part of this team.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
The most important thing we would like to add is activity, but positive activity. We want people who will buy-in to what we are trying to do and overlook the past management. It happened, we cannot change that, but we can change our outlook and how we move forward. We cannot dwell on what the past had, we can only change the future and the future of the team. The locker room was so pumped after our win against NOLA, that is the culture that we want to create. Everyone was supporting each other and rooting each other on. I love to see that.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
There are two franchises that have yet to win a Championship, we are one of those teams.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Honestly, we have many needs as a team. With Jenkins' announcement of retiring, QB will be a position of need for sure. We will have Bayley Jr. coming into the LB core, so that will absolutely help that and Smirh coming in on the defensive line. So, I think QB of the future, Cornerback, and Safety probably would be 3 of our biggest positions. We definitely need another LB with Hockhertz and Bayley, but I would say that those would be our biggest positions of need currently.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
This is something we are continuing to develop. We have some really good running backs and a really solid WR of the future and present in O'Leary that we want to take full advantage of. I think with our draft moves and trades, we will find a little more about our identity. I would love to be a balanced attack with a solid defense. We have really solid pieces on defense right now and as someone who really prefers the defensive side of the ball, I would love to go that route. There's a lot of developing and moving pieces, so we will definitely be honing in on that with every move we make.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Butchers?
Well, this is a franchise that we are looking for a fresh start and people to buy in to that culture. Do you want to be part of a rebuilding franchise that went from chaos and controversy to winning our first ever Championship? That is what you would do for us. Believing in Muford and I is something that we would ask of any rookie. If you want to be part of making Chicago great, that is why you should want to be picked by us. We have a ton of spots available for starting, so you can easily make a name for yourself.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
It seems to me that Chicago will be essentially a third expansion team for all intents and purposes. They are totally rebuilding their culture from scratch, and are looking for "buy-in" and positivity. Bayley seems like a very positive person, and hopefully that is what the culture will become. One of the few teams who have a need at QB, they're likely to grab Waters, Skywalker, or Sofa, depending on who falls in the draft. They are totally bereft of top draft picks, with only one in the top 6 rounds which has to be used on GM player Benson Bayley Jr. If you're a projected mid round pick (perhaps rated outside the top 10 at defensive positions) but still want a chance to start soon in the NSFL, Chicago has a lot of holes, so you'll likely get playing time.
Colorado Yeti
Interview with woelkers
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
We've made a point of bringing users who we feel are the best the league has to offer to our franchise. Our locker room is a fairly relaxed environment, but we know at the end of the day all our players are getting along, we're all having fun, and we're all determined to win ourselves an Ultimus.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
Like I said, we want to bring the best users possible into our locker room. Obviously we can't have everybody, but we make a point as a war room of noting the people we find who we think mesh well with our culture and bring something special to the table that we don't feel we can afford to pass on.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
Unfortunately, none yet, but we feel we've built a team that can compete for one any given season.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
We don't know that any position is an immediate need, but we're exploring our options for the team's future at CB, LB, and WR thoroughly.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Our offense has run through Wolfie most of the past couple seasons, but we change our playbook based on who we're playing from week to week. Defensively, you can ask any team in this league, they'll say Nickel is the way to go. They just don't have Mo Berry and the Sacksquatches.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Yeti?
We've built a team that is prepared to compete both now and well into the future. We've built a locker room that just about any quality user can feel welcome in. We have everything you want from your future NSFL team.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
First off, the Sacksquatches is easily the coolest nickname I've heard in the NSFL so far. If I was a front seven player, I would want to join the team so I could be a member of the Sacksquatches. They still haven't broken through for their first win, but as a playoff team, in my opinion they are a very solid franchise that shouldn't be anyone's "Do not draft me" list. With a very complete roster with few holes, they'll have the luxury of taking best player available in this deep draft class.
Honolulu Hahalua
Interview with Raven
1. What kind of culture are you trying to build?
A chill place where everyone can just vibe and enjoy their time being a part of the team. We like to mess around and have a good time.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
First of all, it's going to be people we vibe with. Through scouting DMs and conversations in our discord, we've gotten to talk to and be around a good amount of the rookies. Which has only cemented our overall feel to these rookies. Discord also let's us see how rookies are with each other, which gives you an idea who might be good players to draft together.
3. What experience and track record do your GMs have?
Dwyer and I are both vets in this league. Been here basically since day 1 and so have accumulated a ton of experience throughout the years. Dwyer was a GM for Arizona in the early seasosns of the league and I've dabbled in GM'ing other leagues. So we both have experience in the GM'ing department.
4. What positions do you think are most vital for a successful expansion team?
Any really, it's a team game and every position brings an amount of worth with them. You need a decent QB to shot-call the offense, but you also need solid pieces to do something with those shots. Defense is big, because you kinda want to stop the other team from scoring and kicker are my babes.
5. What is your vision for the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Hah we would be fools to give away our tactics. I think as we get to the expansion and draft table and we see what is in front of us, we can more easily set ourself into certain positions, because we can want a certain identity, but we also need the people to fit those roles.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by Honolulu?
We're a brand new team, with a clean bill of history that can be written. Everyone wants to be a part of something new, enough challenges will be had. Every pick we make is like writing a new chapter of history!
Mithrandir's Commentary:
I did not get a sense of urgency at all with this team. Their stated focus is to have a good time. Without a clear direction and vision for the future, I think this team will struggle for the first few seasons of their existence. That being said, the environment seems very friendly, and many will like the idea of going to a brand new team and writing the franchise record books.
New Orleans Second Line
Interview with TomHanks
How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
We foster a culture that puts the team first. This is our family and as a team we won't make one player more important than that family, but instead find our common goals to work towards together. We do our best to make sure each individual member’s voice is heard, and are there for each other whether it’s just for a laugh or if someone needs a friend in a crisis.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We’re hoping to add people who can contribute to that team centred culture, and who will bring positive voices into the locker room. With all the negativity in the world right now it’s nice to have a place that’s just a tight knit group of friends having fun, and we’re always looking for more! Obviously, this is the ideal scenario, but we’re hoping for people that will feel at home in NOLA and will want to stay with us for their careers.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We’ve taken home the Ultimus twice, once in S9 and once in S11.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
This is a bit of a tricky one since the expansion draft will change this a great deal, but as things are we’ll absolutely need to bolster our defensive line with Alex Faux retiring, and find a future replacement for Stan Francisco at QB. In addition, we’ll need to add a defensive back to replace Deon Taylor long term. As we have a corner back playing at both strong safety and nickel back, we’ll likely be leaning towards finding a safety over a CB.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Offensively we’re one of the most run heavy teams in the league, relying on outside zone runs from our committee of Gump and Toriki, combined with short passes. Once the defense commits to defending the run and those short routes, we send one of our speed receivers deep to burn them. Defensively, we’re a bend don’t break style team. When the defense needs to buckle down and absolutely make a stop, they’re able to make a big play, particularly when the opponent is in the red zone.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Second Line?
Because we value you as a user well beyond you as a player. We want you to feel welcome, and like you belong in our family. The team will do whatever we can to make sure you are enjoying the league as best you can, and we’ve fostered a locker room where you can have a fun time whenever you want to pop in. Through thick and thin we stick together and support one another, and we can’t wait to add more people to add to that!
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Perhaps I'm biased because of the well-known Luchadores-Second Line. However, in my opinion, this GM's answers were thoughtful, well-written, and specific. Rather than giving generic cliche answers to the culture question, he gave specific reasons that NOLA has a great culture. His clear statement of their team identity show exactly the types of players that fit in their system. If you're a fan of a power running game then NOLA is the place to go.
Orange County Otters
Interview with Revolution5
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Excellence, respect and fun times. The otters were founded building a program of excellence while respecting each other and other teams all while having a good time.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We are looking for people that like to have conversations about football, life and other random topics. We are a wide ranging group in age and have a flexibility to our schedule that allows us to leave, continue and start conversations over a large platform.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We have won 8 total championships, and made the conference championship 19 out of the last 20 seasons
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Expansion draft is going to mold the needs of the team, so I will say to some degree we have needs at all positions.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing,
unrelenting pass rush)?
OCO has been around since the beginning and has shaped its identity to create an advantage against its opponents. These past couple seasons and the rest while Armstrong is at the helm is fluid offense that has multiple weapons to hurt you on the ground and in the air starting with Armstrong. Defensively a Fanta Curtain has been built with the secondary by having a total of 4,000 TPE across them.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Otters?
The otters offer a great support system, may it be for player builds, statistical achievements or just to have an ear to listen to. When you are drafted by the Otters you are welcomed like family and have open communications by both players and GM’s.
Mithrandir's commentary:
The Otters' success speaks for itself. Their excellence has resulted in 8 championships, easily the most in the league. The Fanta Curtain joins the Sacksquatches as one of the great position group nicknames of the league. Perhaps the only people who would not want to end up playing for OCO are those who hate dynasties and success (any Lions or Browns fans out there?)
Philadelphia Liberty
Interview with TubbyTim69
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Our culture is amazing. We have a very active LR full of great people. We have no drama and if anyone is every unhappy me and Hall have an open door policy and we discuss it with the player. The 6 seasons I've been with Philly we've never had someone ask to leave. And it's made re-signing players fairly easy.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We're looking for LR active people. Mainly just in general we arent looking for people who are assholes or anything like that. Our 1st round pick last year was based just off of Juni being a great and motivating person.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
I believe we have 1 Ultimus.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Our biggest needs are Defense. We have some holes in our secondary that we would like to fill and we have the draft picks to do just that.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
We have a young offense lead by the a veteran RB who just so happens to be one of the best RB's in the league history. We are a run heavy team but once our offense gets a little older it will be more balanced.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Liberty?
We have the best LR in the league. All of our players are highly active. We are 1-2 seasons away from being a serious contender.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Philadelphia's main draw is their locker room. If you joined this league to make friends and be active on Discord, the Liberty will be a great fit. The trend continues of teams with great need on defense, so those players especially should talk to Philly scouts.
San Jose Sabercats
Interview with Rradum
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
I like to think we’re a pretty tight knit group and we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Our number one focus is locker room dynamic and culture so I like to think we’ve been making great progress with that.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We’re looking to bring people in who want to of course be active with earning, but also be active in the locker room. This league is supposed to be fun and it starts in the locker room in my opinion.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We have 1 championship win in S14
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
We’re going to be going QB in the 2nd for sure but aside from that we’ll need to see where FA leads us and go from there. We filled a ton of holes in this past draft so now we’ll just need to retool a few positions that we’re losing to retirement and FA.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
These past few seasons we have relied on the rushing game heavily but Dan Wright has shown significant improvement over the past couple of seasons to where our passing game has become way more effective.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the SaberCats?
We have immense pride for our team and do our best to show it to our players every day. We may not be the best right now but I make sure to tell our players that it’s not from a lack of trying. We push to make the right decisions for our team and I’m extremely happy with the direction we’re heading. If a rookie wants to be a part of something great with a locker room that will welcome them with open arms then the Sabercats are here for you. We have made strides in our communication with our players to make sure they know we’re listening and want to do whatever we can to make their experience with us great.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Another team that focuses on team pride and a great locker room. It sounds like they will be looking for best player available in the draft rather than focusing on positions of need. They may not be good now, but are building toward the future.
Sarasota Sailfish
Interview with Frostbite
1. What kind of culture are you trying to build?
We are going to build a positive culture that is helpful all the way around. Being an expansion team, that is going to be key to a solid locker room, and a solid team.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
As I said above I want a positive and helpful locker room, so getting the guys that can help the team grow is going to be key
3. What experience and track record do your GMs have?
We have one of the better pedigrees in the league GM wise. While neither of us have been NSFL GMs before, both of us have been DSFL GMs. As you probably know, I'm the GM of the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers, and I have built a team that can compete for the title each and every season. Rain is from the early days of the league, S1, and when the DSFL was founded he created the Portland Pythons and was a GM there. Both of us have helped a ton of users stay active, and hope that we can bring that helpfulness to the NSFL.
4. What positions do you think are most vital for a successful expansion team?
Expansion teams really need a solid future, I wouldn't really say any singular position stands out for me, although QB would be nice for any team. But, young players pretty much.
5. What is your vision for the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Probably for our first couple of seasons with a low TPE QB we will have more of a power running style, and as our future QB develops, we will be able to expand to more aspects of the game.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by Sarasota?
A rookie should want to come to Sarasota because you will be able to be the offensive centerpiece for a team's future, and make history! The future is extremely bright for us, and any s22 rookie will have a shot!
Mithrandir's Analysis:
Offensive players, look alive! After reading about all the teams that need defense, Sarasota doubled down on offense, saying you can be the offensive centerpiece for the team's future. He didn't give a reason why defensive players should want to go there, but I assume the same is true! Offensive linemen and running backs will salivate when they see they hope to run a power running offense. They seem to have a clearer vision, and I expect them to be the more successful expansion team out of the gate.
Yellowknife Wraiths
Interview with flyeaglesfly29
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
- Winning while actually enjoying being around one another. Since before I joined YellowKnife and still til this day, this franchise has been a constant in terms of making the playoffs and being in the hunt each season. But while winning is nice, it's no fun if you don't actually enjoy the people you are around the most in the LR. For us that's not a problem thankfully!
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
- Folks that fit the mold: People who are interested in being in YK, interested in earning TPE, and interested in having fun in our LR. We are a drama free group 99% of the time and we enjoy keeping it that way!
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
- 1 Ultimus
- 6 Conference Championships
- 7 Division Championships
- 13 Playoff Appearances
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position? (You will have a hard time getting any GM to expand much upon this before the draft takes place lol, I could certainly give you more here, but not giving away draft info yet lol)
- Secondary, DL, WR
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
_ Balanced, literally. I mean we typically have a stout offense but it really depends on the actual game plan that we employ from game to game. Cooter can throw or Hanyandi can run it! On the defensive side we are known for getting after the QB with a strong defensive line.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Wraiths?
- Well we've been to 3 Ultimus games in a row and hope to be back there this season. We have a very strong core and we are never looking to be in "re-build" mode. We always look to fill our needs with the best players available and reload. Not to mention the amazing group of guys that we have in this LR, they are all truly amazing to be around. Oh and we have the best logo in the league!
Mithrandir's Commentary:
The Wraiths have dominated their conference, but have lost three straight years in the Ultimus. Despite that, they are still a top destination as they try to balance fun and winning. They are probably a safe bet to typically make the playoffs, and are a consistent and level-headed locker room. Of course, they're also looking for DL and DBs like the rest of the league.
Arizona Outlaws
Interview with dankoa
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
We have a focus on a friendly and relaxed culture in the locker room, with a good mix of vets and new guys. We are trying to install something of a winning culture with this new incarnation of the team to take us back to our glory days of the past.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
Anyone who is chill, enjoys getting to know new people, wants to build a great player and be a part of a good team environment is a super welcome add to our team culture
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
Not enough. (According to my own research, the Arizona Outlaws have won 4, including the first 3 in league history)
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
We could use some help rounding out our defense; probably a couple DBs, a lineman and a linebacker would be among our biggest needs.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Our main identity comes from our QB, Jay Cue. He’s the dynamite of our offense and the building block that all our play starts with.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Outlaws?
We’re a chilled out but driven team with a very bright future. Come be a part of something that’s going to be very special, very soon
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Arizona's GM used the word "chill" twice, so that seems to be the best description of this team. They are built around QB Jay Cue but need to improve on defense. They have loaded up on draft picks, with nine in the first five rounds, so if you're a defensive player projected for rounds three through five, Arizona is a very likely landing spot for you.
Austin Copperheads
Interview with mooty99
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
The culture of Austin is all about having a relaxed, fun locker room and always building our team for long term gains. A great locker room culture keeps people active and engaged, and through it the team can thrive. That is the reason our title banner has 'we build houses' on it.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We are looking for players that fit and gel with our current squad. Personality fit is very important, more so than TPE level. We look for relaxed, down to earth people who would get on, add and thrive in our locker room culture. We have an open locker room area so if a rookie wants to get an invite just let me know.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We are a relatively new team, we started in the league in season 16 (with the Chicago) during the last expansion. But as you may well know we won the season 20 title last year, the 1st of many to come hopefully.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
This is difficult to say before the expansion draft hits us. Currently just due to players regressing we would be looking for additions to the defensive line, the defensive backs and another offensive weapon.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Currently we have a strong balanced offensive with talent across the board at QB, RB, WR and TE. At the moment we tend to play as a pass heavy offensive, spreading the ball to multiple receiving threats.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Copperheads?
A rookie should want to be in Austin as we have a fun, relaxed locker room environment that is free of drama and a great place to be. With users covering 3 continents there is normal someone awake to chat to. If a player is looking to win sooner rather than later then Austin is also certainly the place to be, our Ultimus window is definitely still open and will be for a number more seasons to come.
Mithrandir's Commentary: As the defending champs, the Copperheads don't need to sell us on their future success: they have tangible evidence they are a good team. Nevertheless, their focus on long-term gains in the future is an attractive quality that makes me think their success will continue. As I've mentioned in other media, DB and DL are in high demand, as both ARI and AUS mentioned those needs. Austin might also appeal to wide receivers and other offensive playmakers who want to be part of a high powered pass-heavy offense.
Baltimore Hawks
Interview with Duilio05
It was not always clear which answers go with which question, but I'll do my best to try to sort his answer into the correct questions.
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Baltimore is one of the original NSFL teams, a full 21 seasons of history. We have the most players in the Hall of Fame and only Otters have been to the Ultimus more times.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We are a quiet team that has enjoyed an exclusive locker room style atmosphere, a place to chill away from the chaos of the General chat. Maybe we're not partying every night like some teams, but we got a solid [camaraderie] with each other.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
Duilio did not answer this question, but the Hawks, have won two and lost six Ultimus Bowls.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Our three biggest needs are Defense, Defense and more Defense.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
We have been a very balanced team this year. We contribute [sic.] this to having one of the best QB/WR tandems in league history, and the best RB duo currently in the league.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Hawks?
A rookie should want to join Baltimore because there is unparalleled opportunity. We are transitioning to a much younger team that will blossom together in 3 seasons time to produce a very strong 3-6 season window of opportunity to win the Ultimus.
We also have the Wing of Honor, a Hawks tradition that honors the best of the best in Hawks history, and one of the oldest team traditions in the league. One of the minimum requirements is to play over half of one's career as a Hawk. Being drafted to Baltimore is a great way to start one's journey of being inducted. Finally I'm the only one of the FabV with an Ultimus Ring.
mithrandir: What does FabV GM mean?
Duilio05: ah FabV is what shadyshoelaces, terriblehippo, baron1989, fricknasty and I called ourselves during our rookie DSFL season. inside joke/poke
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Baltimore's answers were quite fractured and unorganized. It seems they have a lot of great history and tradition, and yet again have a major need at defense. They say that their championship window is three seasons out, so S22 rookies drafted by BAL will be hitting their prime at precisely the right time. In mock drafts, I've seen Baltimore taking multiple DBs in the first few rounds.
Chicago Butchers
Interview with Bayley
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Currently, we are in a little bit of a turmoil with everything going on. I really am taking the time to learn about people on Chicago. I had a good conversation about bagels with HEOB yesterday as well as another member of the team this morning. I felt like it was a productive conversation. I would be silly not to realize that we have some work to do, but we want to keep the people who want to be in Chicago here, as well as look to bring in more members that want to be part of this team.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
The most important thing we would like to add is activity, but positive activity. We want people who will buy-in to what we are trying to do and overlook the past management. It happened, we cannot change that, but we can change our outlook and how we move forward. We cannot dwell on what the past had, we can only change the future and the future of the team. The locker room was so pumped after our win against NOLA, that is the culture that we want to create. Everyone was supporting each other and rooting each other on. I love to see that.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
There are two franchises that have yet to win a Championship, we are one of those teams.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Honestly, we have many needs as a team. With Jenkins' announcement of retiring, QB will be a position of need for sure. We will have Bayley Jr. coming into the LB core, so that will absolutely help that and Smirh coming in on the defensive line. So, I think QB of the future, Cornerback, and Safety probably would be 3 of our biggest positions. We definitely need another LB with Hockhertz and Bayley, but I would say that those would be our biggest positions of need currently.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
This is something we are continuing to develop. We have some really good running backs and a really solid WR of the future and present in O'Leary that we want to take full advantage of. I think with our draft moves and trades, we will find a little more about our identity. I would love to be a balanced attack with a solid defense. We have really solid pieces on defense right now and as someone who really prefers the defensive side of the ball, I would love to go that route. There's a lot of developing and moving pieces, so we will definitely be honing in on that with every move we make.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Butchers?
Well, this is a franchise that we are looking for a fresh start and people to buy in to that culture. Do you want to be part of a rebuilding franchise that went from chaos and controversy to winning our first ever Championship? That is what you would do for us. Believing in Muford and I is something that we would ask of any rookie. If you want to be part of making Chicago great, that is why you should want to be picked by us. We have a ton of spots available for starting, so you can easily make a name for yourself.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
It seems to me that Chicago will be essentially a third expansion team for all intents and purposes. They are totally rebuilding their culture from scratch, and are looking for "buy-in" and positivity. Bayley seems like a very positive person, and hopefully that is what the culture will become. One of the few teams who have a need at QB, they're likely to grab Waters, Skywalker, or Sofa, depending on who falls in the draft. They are totally bereft of top draft picks, with only one in the top 6 rounds which has to be used on GM player Benson Bayley Jr. If you're a projected mid round pick (perhaps rated outside the top 10 at defensive positions) but still want a chance to start soon in the NSFL, Chicago has a lot of holes, so you'll likely get playing time.
Colorado Yeti
Interview with woelkers
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
We've made a point of bringing users who we feel are the best the league has to offer to our franchise. Our locker room is a fairly relaxed environment, but we know at the end of the day all our players are getting along, we're all having fun, and we're all determined to win ourselves an Ultimus.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
Like I said, we want to bring the best users possible into our locker room. Obviously we can't have everybody, but we make a point as a war room of noting the people we find who we think mesh well with our culture and bring something special to the table that we don't feel we can afford to pass on.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
Unfortunately, none yet, but we feel we've built a team that can compete for one any given season.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
We don't know that any position is an immediate need, but we're exploring our options for the team's future at CB, LB, and WR thoroughly.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Our offense has run through Wolfie most of the past couple seasons, but we change our playbook based on who we're playing from week to week. Defensively, you can ask any team in this league, they'll say Nickel is the way to go. They just don't have Mo Berry and the Sacksquatches.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Yeti?
We've built a team that is prepared to compete both now and well into the future. We've built a locker room that just about any quality user can feel welcome in. We have everything you want from your future NSFL team.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
First off, the Sacksquatches is easily the coolest nickname I've heard in the NSFL so far. If I was a front seven player, I would want to join the team so I could be a member of the Sacksquatches. They still haven't broken through for their first win, but as a playoff team, in my opinion they are a very solid franchise that shouldn't be anyone's "Do not draft me" list. With a very complete roster with few holes, they'll have the luxury of taking best player available in this deep draft class.
Honolulu Hahalua
Interview with Raven
1. What kind of culture are you trying to build?
A chill place where everyone can just vibe and enjoy their time being a part of the team. We like to mess around and have a good time.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
First of all, it's going to be people we vibe with. Through scouting DMs and conversations in our discord, we've gotten to talk to and be around a good amount of the rookies. Which has only cemented our overall feel to these rookies. Discord also let's us see how rookies are with each other, which gives you an idea who might be good players to draft together.
3. What experience and track record do your GMs have?
Dwyer and I are both vets in this league. Been here basically since day 1 and so have accumulated a ton of experience throughout the years. Dwyer was a GM for Arizona in the early seasosns of the league and I've dabbled in GM'ing other leagues. So we both have experience in the GM'ing department.
4. What positions do you think are most vital for a successful expansion team?
Any really, it's a team game and every position brings an amount of worth with them. You need a decent QB to shot-call the offense, but you also need solid pieces to do something with those shots. Defense is big, because you kinda want to stop the other team from scoring and kicker are my babes.
5. What is your vision for the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Hah we would be fools to give away our tactics. I think as we get to the expansion and draft table and we see what is in front of us, we can more easily set ourself into certain positions, because we can want a certain identity, but we also need the people to fit those roles.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by Honolulu?
We're a brand new team, with a clean bill of history that can be written. Everyone wants to be a part of something new, enough challenges will be had. Every pick we make is like writing a new chapter of history!
Mithrandir's Commentary:
I did not get a sense of urgency at all with this team. Their stated focus is to have a good time. Without a clear direction and vision for the future, I think this team will struggle for the first few seasons of their existence. That being said, the environment seems very friendly, and many will like the idea of going to a brand new team and writing the franchise record books.
New Orleans Second Line
Interview with TomHanks
How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
We foster a culture that puts the team first. This is our family and as a team we won't make one player more important than that family, but instead find our common goals to work towards together. We do our best to make sure each individual member’s voice is heard, and are there for each other whether it’s just for a laugh or if someone needs a friend in a crisis.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We’re hoping to add people who can contribute to that team centred culture, and who will bring positive voices into the locker room. With all the negativity in the world right now it’s nice to have a place that’s just a tight knit group of friends having fun, and we’re always looking for more! Obviously, this is the ideal scenario, but we’re hoping for people that will feel at home in NOLA and will want to stay with us for their careers.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We’ve taken home the Ultimus twice, once in S9 and once in S11.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
This is a bit of a tricky one since the expansion draft will change this a great deal, but as things are we’ll absolutely need to bolster our defensive line with Alex Faux retiring, and find a future replacement for Stan Francisco at QB. In addition, we’ll need to add a defensive back to replace Deon Taylor long term. As we have a corner back playing at both strong safety and nickel back, we’ll likely be leaning towards finding a safety over a CB.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Offensively we’re one of the most run heavy teams in the league, relying on outside zone runs from our committee of Gump and Toriki, combined with short passes. Once the defense commits to defending the run and those short routes, we send one of our speed receivers deep to burn them. Defensively, we’re a bend don’t break style team. When the defense needs to buckle down and absolutely make a stop, they’re able to make a big play, particularly when the opponent is in the red zone.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Second Line?
Because we value you as a user well beyond you as a player. We want you to feel welcome, and like you belong in our family. The team will do whatever we can to make sure you are enjoying the league as best you can, and we’ve fostered a locker room where you can have a fun time whenever you want to pop in. Through thick and thin we stick together and support one another, and we can’t wait to add more people to add to that!
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Perhaps I'm biased because of the well-known Luchadores-Second Line. However, in my opinion, this GM's answers were thoughtful, well-written, and specific. Rather than giving generic cliche answers to the culture question, he gave specific reasons that NOLA has a great culture. His clear statement of their team identity show exactly the types of players that fit in their system. If you're a fan of a power running game then NOLA is the place to go.
Orange County Otters
Interview with Revolution5
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Excellence, respect and fun times. The otters were founded building a program of excellence while respecting each other and other teams all while having a good time.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We are looking for people that like to have conversations about football, life and other random topics. We are a wide ranging group in age and have a flexibility to our schedule that allows us to leave, continue and start conversations over a large platform.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We have won 8 total championships, and made the conference championship 19 out of the last 20 seasons
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Expansion draft is going to mold the needs of the team, so I will say to some degree we have needs at all positions.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing,
unrelenting pass rush)?
OCO has been around since the beginning and has shaped its identity to create an advantage against its opponents. These past couple seasons and the rest while Armstrong is at the helm is fluid offense that has multiple weapons to hurt you on the ground and in the air starting with Armstrong. Defensively a Fanta Curtain has been built with the secondary by having a total of 4,000 TPE across them.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Otters?
The otters offer a great support system, may it be for player builds, statistical achievements or just to have an ear to listen to. When you are drafted by the Otters you are welcomed like family and have open communications by both players and GM’s.
Mithrandir's commentary:
The Otters' success speaks for itself. Their excellence has resulted in 8 championships, easily the most in the league. The Fanta Curtain joins the Sacksquatches as one of the great position group nicknames of the league. Perhaps the only people who would not want to end up playing for OCO are those who hate dynasties and success (any Lions or Browns fans out there?)
Philadelphia Liberty
Interview with TubbyTim69
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
Our culture is amazing. We have a very active LR full of great people. We have no drama and if anyone is every unhappy me and Hall have an open door policy and we discuss it with the player. The 6 seasons I've been with Philly we've never had someone ask to leave. And it's made re-signing players fairly easy.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We're looking for LR active people. Mainly just in general we arent looking for people who are assholes or anything like that. Our 1st round pick last year was based just off of Juni being a great and motivating person.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
I believe we have 1 Ultimus.
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
Our biggest needs are Defense. We have some holes in our secondary that we would like to fill and we have the draft picks to do just that.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
We have a young offense lead by the a veteran RB who just so happens to be one of the best RB's in the league history. We are a run heavy team but once our offense gets a little older it will be more balanced.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Liberty?
We have the best LR in the league. All of our players are highly active. We are 1-2 seasons away from being a serious contender.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Philadelphia's main draw is their locker room. If you joined this league to make friends and be active on Discord, the Liberty will be a great fit. The trend continues of teams with great need on defense, so those players especially should talk to Philly scouts.
San Jose Sabercats
Interview with Rradum
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
I like to think we’re a pretty tight knit group and we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Our number one focus is locker room dynamic and culture so I like to think we’ve been making great progress with that.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
We’re looking to bring people in who want to of course be active with earning, but also be active in the locker room. This league is supposed to be fun and it starts in the locker room in my opinion.
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
We have 1 championship win in S14
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position?
We’re going to be going QB in the 2nd for sure but aside from that we’ll need to see where FA leads us and go from there. We filled a ton of holes in this past draft so now we’ll just need to retool a few positions that we’re losing to retirement and FA.
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
These past few seasons we have relied on the rushing game heavily but Dan Wright has shown significant improvement over the past couple of seasons to where our passing game has become way more effective.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the SaberCats?
We have immense pride for our team and do our best to show it to our players every day. We may not be the best right now but I make sure to tell our players that it’s not from a lack of trying. We push to make the right decisions for our team and I’m extremely happy with the direction we’re heading. If a rookie wants to be a part of something great with a locker room that will welcome them with open arms then the Sabercats are here for you. We have made strides in our communication with our players to make sure they know we’re listening and want to do whatever we can to make their experience with us great.
Mithrandir's Commentary:
Another team that focuses on team pride and a great locker room. It sounds like they will be looking for best player available in the draft rather than focusing on positions of need. They may not be good now, but are building toward the future.
Sarasota Sailfish
Interview with Frostbite
1. What kind of culture are you trying to build?
We are going to build a positive culture that is helpful all the way around. Being an expansion team, that is going to be key to a solid locker room, and a solid team.
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
As I said above I want a positive and helpful locker room, so getting the guys that can help the team grow is going to be key
3. What experience and track record do your GMs have?
We have one of the better pedigrees in the league GM wise. While neither of us have been NSFL GMs before, both of us have been DSFL GMs. As you probably know, I'm the GM of the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers, and I have built a team that can compete for the title each and every season. Rain is from the early days of the league, S1, and when the DSFL was founded he created the Portland Pythons and was a GM there. Both of us have helped a ton of users stay active, and hope that we can bring that helpfulness to the NSFL.
4. What positions do you think are most vital for a successful expansion team?
Expansion teams really need a solid future, I wouldn't really say any singular position stands out for me, although QB would be nice for any team. But, young players pretty much.
5. What is your vision for the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
Probably for our first couple of seasons with a low TPE QB we will have more of a power running style, and as our future QB develops, we will be able to expand to more aspects of the game.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by Sarasota?
A rookie should want to come to Sarasota because you will be able to be the offensive centerpiece for a team's future, and make history! The future is extremely bright for us, and any s22 rookie will have a shot!
Mithrandir's Analysis:
Offensive players, look alive! After reading about all the teams that need defense, Sarasota doubled down on offense, saying you can be the offensive centerpiece for the team's future. He didn't give a reason why defensive players should want to go there, but I assume the same is true! Offensive linemen and running backs will salivate when they see they hope to run a power running offense. They seem to have a clearer vision, and I expect them to be the more successful expansion team out of the gate.
Yellowknife Wraiths
Interview with flyeaglesfly29
1. How would you describe the culture of your franchise?
- Winning while actually enjoying being around one another. Since before I joined YellowKnife and still til this day, this franchise has been a constant in terms of making the playoffs and being in the hunt each season. But while winning is nice, it's no fun if you don't actually enjoy the people you are around the most in the LR. For us that's not a problem thankfully!
2. What type of personalities are you looking to add to that culture?
- Folks that fit the mold: People who are interested in being in YK, interested in earning TPE, and interested in having fun in our LR. We are a drama free group 99% of the time and we enjoy keeping it that way!
3. How many championships has your franchise won?
- 1 Ultimus
- 6 Conference Championships
- 7 Division Championships
- 13 Playoff Appearances
4. What are your roster's three biggest draft needs by position? (You will have a hard time getting any GM to expand much upon this before the draft takes place lol, I could certainly give you more here, but not giving away draft info yet lol)
- Secondary, DL, WR
5. What is the football identity of your team (i.e. power running, deep passing, unrelenting pass rush)?
_ Balanced, literally. I mean we typically have a stout offense but it really depends on the actual game plan that we employ from game to game. Cooter can throw or Hanyandi can run it! On the defensive side we are known for getting after the QB with a strong defensive line.
6. Why should a rookie want to be drafted by the Wraiths?
- Well we've been to 3 Ultimus games in a row and hope to be back there this season. We have a very strong core and we are never looking to be in "re-build" mode. We always look to fill our needs with the best players available and reload. Not to mention the amazing group of guys that we have in this LR, they are all truly amazing to be around. Oh and we have the best logo in the league!
Mithrandir's Commentary:
The Wraiths have dominated their conference, but have lost three straight years in the Ultimus. Despite that, they are still a top destination as they try to balance fun and winning. They are probably a safe bet to typically make the playoffs, and are a consistent and level-headed locker room. Of course, they're also looking for DL and DBs like the rest of the league.
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