Today I’m going to take a look at the S2 draft class. Not everyone, just the position that went first overall, CB. We’re going to look at how each of the 8 drafted CBs in that class have fared in their first two seasons. We will not be including anyone who position switched in this, as they may not have as much info on their CB playing time, and well I’m just too lazy to see how many have switched. I’ll also make predictions on who I think will be the best CB going into this season, and who I believe has been the best CB so far.
First, I’ll be establishing their play so far. Since there are some things that won’t be trackable, we’ll have to rely on tackles, passes defended, and interceptions in order to determine our top CBs. Other stats such as sacks, tackles for loss, forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, and TDs will factor in as well.
1OA, Dermot Lavelle, Wraiths. The first draft pick of the S2 draft, Dermot went in as the clear top prospect, and the Wraiths put themselves in a position to retain a key piece of their defense, as Dermot was a waiver pick in S1. Dermot is also the only CB in this class that played a season as a waiver pickup, as the other 7 prospects all joined after S1 concluded. In S1 he had 57 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 18 PDs. These numbers are good, and cemented him as the number 1 pick. In S2 he had 58 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 15 PDs. Another solid campaign on his part, with PDs only taking a step back. In S3 he had 47 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 12 PDs. A campaign that saw him take a step back, whether this was due to having no one of note across from him at CB or just not being thrown at it’s hard to tell. He has remained an active member of the community, so I would expect a bounce back season from the veteran CB.
9OA, Darnell Turner, Hawks. The second CB off the board, Turner was a highly valued prospect, and considered to be the 2nd best CB in the draft (which seems obvious considering he went 2nd). Turner joined Antoine Delacour in Baltimore, helping to create what was looking like a dominant duo for the foreseeable future. Turner in S2 had 47 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 16 PDs. These are some nice stats in his rookie year, and he was a reliable CB along with Delacour. In S3 Turner had 50 tackles, 5 interceptions, 15 PDs, and 1 TD. The numbers slightly improved, and helped prove that he and Delacour are not to be taken lightly. He could be looking at a truly breakout year this season, and really separate himself from the pack of CBs along with him.
12OA, Tyler Oles, Liberty. The third CB off the board, and arguably the best one of the bunch so far. He went to the expansion team with the expectations that he would be their top CB, and he has been just that. Providing a reliable player with an ability to intercept the ball, Oles has helped the Liberty’s ball-hawking secondary thrive, and has been a big part of it. In S2, Oles had 63 tackles, 6 interceptions, and 12 PDs. These were enough to earn him Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. In S3 he had 59 tackles, 7 interceptions, 12 PDs, and 1 TD. Showing consistency, the one area he lacks is in PDs, where he consistently has had only a few more PDs than interceptions.
30OA, Marc Spector, Otters. Possibly the most underrated CB on the list, Spector has quietly been a reliable CB for the Otters. While he may not have a lot of interceptions, he has been able to be a reliable corner for the Otters who are hoping that their CB duo can help elevate them past the Outlaws. An active member of the team, and one who has a lot of ability, Spector could develop into a shutdown CB this season. In S2 he had 54 tackles, 2 interceptions, 13 PDs, and 1 TD. Solid numbers for his rookie campaign, and showing that while he may not make plays he will keep the opponent from making plays as well. In S3 he had 59 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 15 PDs. Slightly better numbers that reinforce the idea that he will keep the opponent from making plays, instead of relying on a change of position to stop the other team.
31OA, Kristoffer O’Sullivan, CB. A reliable CB to pair with Oles in Liberty, O’Sullivan was having a solid career before announcing his retirement for the end of the season. O’Sullivan, a player who was always seen working hard to play better, suddenly dropped off, and decided the best option was to retire and move on to what life offers next. O’Sullivan in S2 had 44 tackles, 1 interception, and 12 PDs. These numbers won’t jump off the page, and aren’t as flashy as some other players, but they are still decent numbers that help the team out. In S3, O’Sullivan had 57 tackles, 2 interceptions, 11 PDs, and 1 TD. Solid numbers, but nothing really flashy for the soon to be retired O’Sullivan.
37OA, Xavier Newman, SaberCats. Expectations were that Newman was a sneaky steal, ready to be paired with star CB Canton in SaberCats and provide the top shut down tandem in the league. Expectations were not met however, with Newman quickly phoning it in and never really working to better himself, seemingly becoming complacent with where he was in life, only showing up and doing minimal work. In S2 he had 19 tackles, and 3 PDs. A horrible campaign that led to them trading for Matthew Peterson to try and help the team fill the hole they had. He was quickly relegated to nothingness, as SaberCats drafted standout Benson Bayley in S3, to do what Newman couldn’t. Newman had 1 abysmal season, and is easily the biggest disappointment of this CB class.
73OA, Leon Morgan, Legion. Expectations were never high for this CB, Legion were forced to watch 6 CBs go off the board before they ever had a shot, as the 6 prior all went before the Legion’s first ever pick in the draft. Morgan was never expected to come in and help the defensive backfield, and he actually exceeded expectations. In S2, Morgan had 67 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 1 sack, and 1 PD. While he was a CB, he seems to have played more like a LB than a CB, as he amassed stats you would see from a solid LB. In S3 he had 65 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 3 PDs. A versatile weapon for the Legion, he has exceeded his relatively low expectations and helped the Legion in some way.
85OA, Rafeal Reyes, Wraiths. The last CB has gone off the board, with the Wraiths drafting him 85 picks into the draft. He was quickly traded to Baltimore, another team that saw him as a useful depth piece with relatively low expectations, so they really didn’t lose anything acquiring him. In S2 he had 47 tackles, 1 fumble recovery, 2 sacks, 5 interceptions, and 6 PDs, solid stats for a depth CB who was a more versatile piece than the players taken earlier to just play CB. In S3 he had 46 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions, 5 PDs, and 1 TD. Solid stats in his 2nd season, Reyes was a pretty reliable player for the Hawks, even if he seemed to be nothing more than depth for Delacour and Turner. Relegated the the DSFL now, Reyes will surely excel in a system where he is better than most.
Now that we’ve determined their stats, and how well they’ve played so far, it’s time to rank them. I’m sure I’m going to get some heat for this, whether it is from people who believe I’m biased, people who think, and show, reason that the player they believe is better, or just from biased people.
1. Tyler Oles. To me he is the best CB of the bunch, with his ability to make plays and end key drives as a big factor. He has faced top targets throughout his career, and has exceled at being the top CB for the expansion team looking for an identity. He was also rookie of the year in S2, establishing his spot at the top early and not letting up.
2. Darnell Turner. This was a tough choice, both Lavelle and Turner are fantastic CBs and help their teams tremendously. This of this as more of a 2a and 2b than 2 and 3. Turner is a great CB who works well with Delacour.
3. Dermot Lavelle. The number 1 pick in season 2 comes in at number 3, having the most playing time of everyone his stats have fallen off a bit as time progressed, had he had a little bit better of a season in S3 he would be number 2 on the list.
4. Marc Spector. A solid player so far in his career, look for him to have a breakout campaign this season. He is poised to have a great year in OC, and could rocket up the ranks if he does. Spector has been a solid player for the ASFC’s second best team, and will stay a reliable player with his consistency.
5. Rafeal Reyes. A versatile CB, who was able to play anywhere as a depth piece for the Hawks, he was a solid player while in the NSFL. He was able to provide the Hawks with a player that can fill any role needed. A reliable player who had a solid NSFL career.
6. Leon Morgan. A similar player to Reyes, he was a versatile player for the Legion and was able to help out anywhere needed. He wasn’t as good of a player as Reyes was at being a versatile piece, but he still got the job done for the Legion during his time with them so far.
7. Kristoffer O’Sullivan. While he is retiring and has seemingly been relegated to the role of a nickel CB in his final season, O’Sullivan was a solid CB in S2 and S3. O’Sullivan had a solid career, but nothing flashy to make you think he will be getting any hall of fame votes.
8. Xavier Newman. Newman easily had the worst career of everyone in the class, and there really isn’t much more to say about him. He disappeared and never was much more than an emergency depth piece.
Who is poised to rise? Who is poised to fall?
The biggest riser could be Marc Spector, looking at the possibility of a breakout season coming up. Spector looks to have a great season and should been in the best position, with the team the Otters have right now the defense should be better than ever, and that includes the CB.
Dermot Lavelle could also rise this season. A struggle of a season for the star in S3, he could have a comeback campaign this season. He will be hindered by the hole left at CB, with the loss of Kevin Cushing, and no real option to replace him. This will allow him however to make more plays on the ball, and force opposing QBs to throw at the number 2 option, as Dermot can set himself up as a dominant CB.
Oles is poised to fall in this list as well. Oles gained a teammate in Kevin Cushing, which could lead to teams completely ignoring their WRs in favor of checkdowns to their TE or RB. You also have to wonder if the interception pace is sustainable, and if he can increase the amount of PDs he has. Liberty have a good defense, and Oles is a big part, but that could change in the coming season.
Turner is another one who could fall this season. Turner could be the victim of other players just having better seasons, as someone has to fall in order for others to rise. He is certainly still a top CB in this class, but being behind Delacour as seemingly CB2 could make others think he isn’t better than players who are always facing a team’s top target.
It will be interesting to see how the CBs from this fantastic draft play out, but right now there are 4 top options from this class, and that doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon. Lavelle and Oles are all mainstays for their teams, and seem to be staying put with their team for a long time. Turner is a consistent, reliable player who is having a great career, but ultimately is overshadowed by his CB partner, and the other CBs in this class, such as Lavelle and Oles. Who knows how the rankings look in 2 years or even at the end of their careers, maybe there is even a resurgence from unlikely candidates Leon Morgan or Rafeal Reyes.
(2195 words, ready for grading)
GRADED
First, I’ll be establishing their play so far. Since there are some things that won’t be trackable, we’ll have to rely on tackles, passes defended, and interceptions in order to determine our top CBs. Other stats such as sacks, tackles for loss, forced fumbles, fumble recoveries, and TDs will factor in as well.
1OA, Dermot Lavelle, Wraiths. The first draft pick of the S2 draft, Dermot went in as the clear top prospect, and the Wraiths put themselves in a position to retain a key piece of their defense, as Dermot was a waiver pick in S1. Dermot is also the only CB in this class that played a season as a waiver pickup, as the other 7 prospects all joined after S1 concluded. In S1 he had 57 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 18 PDs. These numbers are good, and cemented him as the number 1 pick. In S2 he had 58 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 15 PDs. Another solid campaign on his part, with PDs only taking a step back. In S3 he had 47 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 12 PDs. A campaign that saw him take a step back, whether this was due to having no one of note across from him at CB or just not being thrown at it’s hard to tell. He has remained an active member of the community, so I would expect a bounce back season from the veteran CB.
9OA, Darnell Turner, Hawks. The second CB off the board, Turner was a highly valued prospect, and considered to be the 2nd best CB in the draft (which seems obvious considering he went 2nd). Turner joined Antoine Delacour in Baltimore, helping to create what was looking like a dominant duo for the foreseeable future. Turner in S2 had 47 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 16 PDs. These are some nice stats in his rookie year, and he was a reliable CB along with Delacour. In S3 Turner had 50 tackles, 5 interceptions, 15 PDs, and 1 TD. The numbers slightly improved, and helped prove that he and Delacour are not to be taken lightly. He could be looking at a truly breakout year this season, and really separate himself from the pack of CBs along with him.
12OA, Tyler Oles, Liberty. The third CB off the board, and arguably the best one of the bunch so far. He went to the expansion team with the expectations that he would be their top CB, and he has been just that. Providing a reliable player with an ability to intercept the ball, Oles has helped the Liberty’s ball-hawking secondary thrive, and has been a big part of it. In S2, Oles had 63 tackles, 6 interceptions, and 12 PDs. These were enough to earn him Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. In S3 he had 59 tackles, 7 interceptions, 12 PDs, and 1 TD. Showing consistency, the one area he lacks is in PDs, where he consistently has had only a few more PDs than interceptions.
30OA, Marc Spector, Otters. Possibly the most underrated CB on the list, Spector has quietly been a reliable CB for the Otters. While he may not have a lot of interceptions, he has been able to be a reliable corner for the Otters who are hoping that their CB duo can help elevate them past the Outlaws. An active member of the team, and one who has a lot of ability, Spector could develop into a shutdown CB this season. In S2 he had 54 tackles, 2 interceptions, 13 PDs, and 1 TD. Solid numbers for his rookie campaign, and showing that while he may not make plays he will keep the opponent from making plays as well. In S3 he had 59 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 15 PDs. Slightly better numbers that reinforce the idea that he will keep the opponent from making plays, instead of relying on a change of position to stop the other team.
31OA, Kristoffer O’Sullivan, CB. A reliable CB to pair with Oles in Liberty, O’Sullivan was having a solid career before announcing his retirement for the end of the season. O’Sullivan, a player who was always seen working hard to play better, suddenly dropped off, and decided the best option was to retire and move on to what life offers next. O’Sullivan in S2 had 44 tackles, 1 interception, and 12 PDs. These numbers won’t jump off the page, and aren’t as flashy as some other players, but they are still decent numbers that help the team out. In S3, O’Sullivan had 57 tackles, 2 interceptions, 11 PDs, and 1 TD. Solid numbers, but nothing really flashy for the soon to be retired O’Sullivan.
37OA, Xavier Newman, SaberCats. Expectations were that Newman was a sneaky steal, ready to be paired with star CB Canton in SaberCats and provide the top shut down tandem in the league. Expectations were not met however, with Newman quickly phoning it in and never really working to better himself, seemingly becoming complacent with where he was in life, only showing up and doing minimal work. In S2 he had 19 tackles, and 3 PDs. A horrible campaign that led to them trading for Matthew Peterson to try and help the team fill the hole they had. He was quickly relegated to nothingness, as SaberCats drafted standout Benson Bayley in S3, to do what Newman couldn’t. Newman had 1 abysmal season, and is easily the biggest disappointment of this CB class.
73OA, Leon Morgan, Legion. Expectations were never high for this CB, Legion were forced to watch 6 CBs go off the board before they ever had a shot, as the 6 prior all went before the Legion’s first ever pick in the draft. Morgan was never expected to come in and help the defensive backfield, and he actually exceeded expectations. In S2, Morgan had 67 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 1 sack, and 1 PD. While he was a CB, he seems to have played more like a LB than a CB, as he amassed stats you would see from a solid LB. In S3 he had 65 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 sack, 1 interception, and 3 PDs. A versatile weapon for the Legion, he has exceeded his relatively low expectations and helped the Legion in some way.
85OA, Rafeal Reyes, Wraiths. The last CB has gone off the board, with the Wraiths drafting him 85 picks into the draft. He was quickly traded to Baltimore, another team that saw him as a useful depth piece with relatively low expectations, so they really didn’t lose anything acquiring him. In S2 he had 47 tackles, 1 fumble recovery, 2 sacks, 5 interceptions, and 6 PDs, solid stats for a depth CB who was a more versatile piece than the players taken earlier to just play CB. In S3 he had 46 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions, 5 PDs, and 1 TD. Solid stats in his 2nd season, Reyes was a pretty reliable player for the Hawks, even if he seemed to be nothing more than depth for Delacour and Turner. Relegated the the DSFL now, Reyes will surely excel in a system where he is better than most.
Now that we’ve determined their stats, and how well they’ve played so far, it’s time to rank them. I’m sure I’m going to get some heat for this, whether it is from people who believe I’m biased, people who think, and show, reason that the player they believe is better, or just from biased people.
1. Tyler Oles. To me he is the best CB of the bunch, with his ability to make plays and end key drives as a big factor. He has faced top targets throughout his career, and has exceled at being the top CB for the expansion team looking for an identity. He was also rookie of the year in S2, establishing his spot at the top early and not letting up.
2. Darnell Turner. This was a tough choice, both Lavelle and Turner are fantastic CBs and help their teams tremendously. This of this as more of a 2a and 2b than 2 and 3. Turner is a great CB who works well with Delacour.
3. Dermot Lavelle. The number 1 pick in season 2 comes in at number 3, having the most playing time of everyone his stats have fallen off a bit as time progressed, had he had a little bit better of a season in S3 he would be number 2 on the list.
4. Marc Spector. A solid player so far in his career, look for him to have a breakout campaign this season. He is poised to have a great year in OC, and could rocket up the ranks if he does. Spector has been a solid player for the ASFC’s second best team, and will stay a reliable player with his consistency.
5. Rafeal Reyes. A versatile CB, who was able to play anywhere as a depth piece for the Hawks, he was a solid player while in the NSFL. He was able to provide the Hawks with a player that can fill any role needed. A reliable player who had a solid NSFL career.
6. Leon Morgan. A similar player to Reyes, he was a versatile player for the Legion and was able to help out anywhere needed. He wasn’t as good of a player as Reyes was at being a versatile piece, but he still got the job done for the Legion during his time with them so far.
7. Kristoffer O’Sullivan. While he is retiring and has seemingly been relegated to the role of a nickel CB in his final season, O’Sullivan was a solid CB in S2 and S3. O’Sullivan had a solid career, but nothing flashy to make you think he will be getting any hall of fame votes.
8. Xavier Newman. Newman easily had the worst career of everyone in the class, and there really isn’t much more to say about him. He disappeared and never was much more than an emergency depth piece.
Who is poised to rise? Who is poised to fall?
The biggest riser could be Marc Spector, looking at the possibility of a breakout season coming up. Spector looks to have a great season and should been in the best position, with the team the Otters have right now the defense should be better than ever, and that includes the CB.
Dermot Lavelle could also rise this season. A struggle of a season for the star in S3, he could have a comeback campaign this season. He will be hindered by the hole left at CB, with the loss of Kevin Cushing, and no real option to replace him. This will allow him however to make more plays on the ball, and force opposing QBs to throw at the number 2 option, as Dermot can set himself up as a dominant CB.
Oles is poised to fall in this list as well. Oles gained a teammate in Kevin Cushing, which could lead to teams completely ignoring their WRs in favor of checkdowns to their TE or RB. You also have to wonder if the interception pace is sustainable, and if he can increase the amount of PDs he has. Liberty have a good defense, and Oles is a big part, but that could change in the coming season.
Turner is another one who could fall this season. Turner could be the victim of other players just having better seasons, as someone has to fall in order for others to rise. He is certainly still a top CB in this class, but being behind Delacour as seemingly CB2 could make others think he isn’t better than players who are always facing a team’s top target.
It will be interesting to see how the CBs from this fantastic draft play out, but right now there are 4 top options from this class, and that doesn’t look to be changing anytime soon. Lavelle and Oles are all mainstays for their teams, and seem to be staying put with their team for a long time. Turner is a consistent, reliable player who is having a great career, but ultimately is overshadowed by his CB partner, and the other CBs in this class, such as Lavelle and Oles. Who knows how the rankings look in 2 years or even at the end of their careers, maybe there is even a resurgence from unlikely candidates Leon Morgan or Rafeal Reyes.
(2195 words, ready for grading)
GRADED
[div align=center]
![[Image: HzftG7t.gif]](https://i.imgur.com/HzftG7t.gif)
![[Image: YltEe9n.png]](https://i.imgur.com/YltEe9n.png)
[div align=center]
[div align=center]
![[Image: BVsashy.png]](https://i.imgur.com/BVsashy.png)
![[Image: TBFYuND.png]](https://i.imgur.com/TBFYuND.png)
