At the end of the 23rd season of the Simulation Football League, the Lycans found themselves floating in unfamiliar waters. The team achieved a three-game winning streak and finished their season with a record of 5-7 (2-2 in the West Division). One of those victories came against last season's West Division Runner-Ups Albuquerque Atoms.
With uplifted spirits and multiple changes in front of them, what was the future of this hungry team?
The Anticipated Off-Season
Los Angeles went into the off-season with plenty of vigor. Their key losses were newly-retired and Grand Hall of Lycan Defensive Tackle Gary Marx, Wide Receiver Shea Carroll, retired Tight End Jacob Farmer, and Halfback Jaylin Wells.
Free Agency was a bit sketchy according to Lycans Majority Owner Rachelle Colston. "With certain teams being sold and SFLm teams moving to the Majors, we knew it'd be difficult for teams to acquire new talent. There were quite a few disappointing situations but our Front Office made the necessary adjustments." LA managed to retain the core of their team and add a familiar face with the return of WR Bubba Tree. The acquisitions of UDFA Guards Hunter Wetoska and Altais Wildes bolsters much-needed protection and push for LA's offense. Another huge get for the team is Adam Grabowski, former Tight End of the Arizona Scorpions.
Moves were made during the final Rookie Draft of the SFL, as the Lycans (having the 3rd overall pick) acquired the Carolina Skyhawks 16th pick for cash considerations. The Lycans also traded away their 28th pick to the Chicago Warriors for cash considerations. Both picks ended up being shockers, as Halfback Patrick Rudlang (Bossier City Steamers) and Defensive Tackle Bear Winters (Nashville Tempo) were selected with picks 3 and 16 respectively.
To Know is to Know Nothing
Opening week of the 24th SFL season is at hand and the new Lycans are seen touring their new home. Lycanthrope Field at Evo9x Stadium is abuzz with smiling faces, handshakes, and plenty of optimism for the upcoming season. After touring their new surroundings, Grabowski, Rudlang, and Winters are seated in newly-christened Juggernaut Energy Meeting room to answer a few questions from Lycans News.
Lycans News: ""Gentlemen, congrats on becoming the future of this Los Angeles Lycans team. We'll be asking you three a few questions. So how did you all find the SFL?
Grabowki: "I found the SFL through some buddies I met online who were already playing. They told me about this awesome league where you can live out your football dreams from your couch. I got hooked with the community and the competitive spirit right away!"
Rudlang: "I found the Simulation Football League through a friend of mine, who is also a player in our league and was the number 7 pick in this last draft. I saw it as a learning opportunity to understand more about the positions and roles on and off the field. Never had I expected that I would get sucked into it as much as I have. It has been great, and I can't wait to contribute to the team and play my part in our future games."
Winters: "YouTube. I was just surfing and found it."
LN: "Adam, tell me about your time with the Steamers in the SFLm. Personally, I believe you were an outstanding TE there. What's your personal opinion on your performance with the team? A follow-up question: What did you learn being part of a strong organization such as the Arizona Scorpions?"
Grabowski: "I appreciate the kind words! I'm proud to have scored Bossier City's first-ever touchdown, which was also my first. I was able to make some key plays over the last couple seasons that helped the team, but there's always room for improvement. I enjoyed my time there. As for Arizona, my time there came with a tough learning curve. I was definitely overshadowed by the veteran talent on the team; however, I'm grateful for the opportunity Coach Eddie gave me early in my SFL career. It taught me the value of patience, hard work, and learning from those who've been in the game longer. It's all about seizing the moments when they come and preparing for when the spotlight finally shines my way."
LN: "Patrick, you and Adam were teammates at Bossier City as well. A little bird told us that LA scouts caught wind of you will looking at Grabowski, yet we digress. What has your time in the SFLm taught you?"
Rudlang: "At the beginning of my time with the Bossier City team, I focused solely on myself. It wasn't long after that I realized how much more there was to the SFLm: The interaction with other players, the excitement of watching our team's success and challenges. A team is where individual talents blend to create something extraordinary."
LN: "Well said! Bear, you were literally like a bear on the field in Nashville. What did your time with the Tempo teach you?"
Winters: "NEVER GIVE UP! You can overcome anything as a Team"
LN: "A man of few words. You gotta respect that. Patrick and Bear, what were your reactions being drafted to the Los Angeles Lycans?"
Rudlang: "I was hanging out with Baron Wendt, playing darts, and wasn't expecting it! I had a camera ready to join the live feed to show my excitement, but we didn't expect it to happen that early. I'm still thrilled and honored."
Winters: "As I was waiting in and out of the green room, I was wondering who needed a player like me. I had spoken to different teams but something was certainly positive with LA. Sully Richardson has proven his words are gold and I believe I am with the right family. Super excited and I can't wait! Ace Blackwell? He was straight up and down with me. I respect his honesty. This is truly a great place to be."
LN: "What is everyone's goals for this upcoming season?"
Winters: "To prove why I am the 16th overall pick! That's the only goal I have. To help build this awesome foundation in LA."
Rudlang: "I want to lead the Lycans Nation to howl louder than ever! My goal this coming season is to learn and engage more. Oh, and help win a championship, of course!"
Grabowski: "This season, I'm looking to find my place on the team while leaving a good impression. I want to push for more consistent performances and help my team secure a spot in the playoffs."
LN: "Here's a little controversial topic: Who's your favorite football team? Professional or college or whatever?"
Grabowski: "My favorite football team is Rutgers. They're battling it out in the Big Ten, which is no small feat. Despite challenges, Rutgers has shown heart, producing numerous players who've made it to the NFL. It's inspiring to see them go up against the giants of college football, proving that you can compete at the highest level with dedication and hard work. Go Scarlet Knights!"
Rudlang: "I almost hate to admit it, but I'm a Vikings fan. Grew up in Minnesota bleeding the purple and gold!"
Winters: "LSU and LA."
LN: Alright guys. We've reached our final question. What would you like to say to Lycans Nation? The floor is yours."
Winters: "Yo, WHAT UP LA! Let's make some noise! Woooooooo!!!!!!!"
Grabowski: "You're getting a future legend right here. Keep howling for the Lycans, and let's make this season one for the history books. Together, we're not just playing; we're creating legends! Let's do this!"
Rudlang: "You’re about to witness something special this season. I’m here to give you 110%, leave it all on the field, and make every game one to remember. Let’s turn up, make some noise, and take this league by storm. Howl loud, Lycans—this is our year!"
LN: "Gentlemen, thank you for your time and from all of us here? We'd like to welcome you to the Movement. Let's give them hell!"
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