Tackling NFL roster moves in Madden 18
This NFL offseason has been a bit more active than usual. Not only will we go into next season knowing what a catch is, but plenty of players will be wearing different colors.
We’ve already discussed the big changes at QB, and the Cleveland Browns’ drastically improved roster, but there have been plenty of other roster changes to consider. Looking at their current Madden ratings, some of the biggest changes are on the defensive side. Official roster updates for Madden 18 may be done, but you can still adjust rosters for a fresh dive into Connected Franchise. So, let’s look at some of the biggest roster shakeups.
Suh is an absolute stud at stopping the run. He essentially acts a wall to any running back, with a 98 Strength, which is the highest rating in the game. Also looping in their update secondary with Marcus Peters and Aqib Talib, and the Los Angeles Rams’ defense might be the most improved the next Madden season.
While questions loom regarding health, Sherman remains a beast CB in Madden. With the End of Season ratings, Sherman has likely the largest positional improvement of the offseason. In Connected Franchise, adding Sherman takes the Niners’ CB1 position grade from a C+ to an A+ immediately, making him THE choice for User Lurks.
Robinson brings a reliable target to a Chicago WR crew that needed a boost. He doesn’t have the Ball Carrier moves to make him the most elusive, but his size, Speed, Route Running, and Release mean he can be a reliable target for a team that needed one. He’s a Possession Catch monster for Madden and is excellent in the red zone.
Speaking of red zone proficiency. Jimmy Graham has amazing potential with Aaron Rodgers throwing to him. If you watched Skimbo play in this season’s Madden Classic, then you know how effective Graham can be with high-point throws. Call an In Route, throw high into the end zone, score touchdown, win.
Watkins brings a substantial amount of depth to the KC roster. Entering a season where Patrick Mahomes is starting with his cannon arm, KC needed targets to ensure he could stretch the field. Watkins provides a big-time playmaker opposite Tyreek Hill. Between Hill, Watkins, Travis Kelce, and Kareem Hunt, this might be one of the most exciting rosters to play next season.
If you watched any of the Top Plays submissions this season, then you know the Madden Community loves running with LeGarrette Blount. His 97 Truck can grind away short yardage for the Lions, delivering a variety to gameplay the roster was lacking before.
The Honey Badger provides a higher level of attack to the Houston’s already stout defense. Mathieu is a well-rounded safety that’s built for user lurks. His quality Spin and Juke moves can be used to turn the tide after the INTs come.
Butler instantly becomes Tennessee’s best corner option. He’s coming off a less productive season capped by a mysterious benching for the Super Bowl, but he’s still very capable of silencing a teams’ best WR. His Man and Zone Coverage ratings took a hit, and he doesn’t have the flashy ball carrying moves that Mathieu does, but he’s definitely an improvement for the Titans.
- Daniel Williams
Madden NFL 18 is available now on the PS4 and Xbox One. Stay in the conversation by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter.