(S25) - PT 1 - Opening Statements

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The London Royals were able to bring home their first Ultimini trophy at the end of season 24. As a result, they had several impact players called up to ISFL rosters. This group included six 1st round selections from the last two drafts. Surely they weren’t able to fill all of those holes and position themselves to repeat as Ultimini champs, right? Wrong. While it is true that the players they lost are one of a kind, the Royals were able to strategically acquire talent over the last two drafts, leaving them with playmakers ready to step in at every position of need. The offense will have a different look to it this season with a young wide receiver group, but they will find veteran leadership in capped QB Charlemagne Cortez, and nearly capped TE Frank Michell, and RB Terry Yaki. With talent across the board on offense, they will be able to adjust their game plan to lean pass heavy or lean run heavy depending on the opponent.

The outlook on defense is very similar. A mixture of talented youth and wily veterans. The defensive line is anchored by returning players like DE Mattress Cadaire and DT Brent Silva, but will be helped immensely by the up and coming DE Ernest Lover. The main cog in the machine is clearly second year LB L’Gazzy Burfict, who is ready to step out of the shadows of his predecessors and show he is the next great Royals LB. With rookie LB Logan Sarrasin alongside, the LB group is a fierce one. The Royals secondary sees three returning players that are somewhat under the radar. The addition of S Caven McRae has quietly put the Royals back in the discussion for best DB corps.

This balance of experience and youth has the Royals back at the top of the rankings and in position to fight off the challengers and repeat as Ultimini champions in season 25.

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324 words