NFL in London

National Football League in London

NFL Picks

Best Rookie Years

by

The NFL hype-train is in full effect, as fantasy fans start making their predictions as to who will be the best rookie in 2024.  But who are some of the players who had the Best Rookie Years?
Let’s take a look at the list at several rookies have made an immediate impact, leaving their mark from day one. These athletes didn’t just meet expectations—they exceeded them, setting the stage for illustrious careers. Here, we take a look at seven NFL rookies who had truly breakout seasons, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike.
Who knows, maybe someone in 2024 will crack it as well?

1. Randy Moss (1998, Minnesota Vikings)

Randy Moss burst onto the NFL scene in 1998 and quickly became one of the most electrifying wide receivers the league has ever seen. Drafted 21st overall by the Minnesota Vikings, Moss made an immediate impact with his unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism. During his rookie season, Moss caught 69 passes for 1,313 yards and an astonishing 17 touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field with deep routes opened up the Vikings’ offense, helping them achieve a 15-1 regular season record. Moss’s rookie year set the foundation for a Hall of Fame career, and his 17 touchdown receptions remain a rookie record.

2. Cam Newton (2011, Carolina Panthers)

When the Carolina Panthers selected Cam Newton with the first overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, expectations were sky-high. Newton didn’t just meet those expectations—he shattered them. In his rookie season, Newton threw for 4,051 yards and 21 touchdowns while adding 706 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground. He became the first rookie quarterback to throw for over 4,000 yards, and his 35 total touchdowns set a new record for rookie QBs. Newton’s dual-threat ability revolutionized the quarterback position and earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

3. Eric Dickerson (1983, Los Angeles Rams)

Eric Dickerson’s rookie season in 1983 is still considered one of the greatest by any running back in NFL history. Drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Rams, Dickerson wasted no time making his presence felt. He rushed for 1,808 yards and scored 18 total touchdowns, setting a rookie record for rushing yards that still stands today. Dickerson’s combination of speed, vision, and power was unmatched, and he quickly became the focal point of the Rams’ offense. His performance not only earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award but also set the stage for a Hall of Fame career.

4. Lawrence Taylor (1981, New York Giants)

Lawrence Taylor is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, and his rookie season in 1981 was nothing short of spectacular. Selected second overall by the New York Giants, Taylor revolutionized the outside linebacker position with his aggressive and disruptive style of play. He recorded 9.5 sacks (unofficial at the time, as sacks were not an official statistic until 1982) and was named the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Taylor’s impact went beyond the stats, as he transformed the Giants’ defense and struck fear into opposing quarterbacks. His rookie season was just the beginning of a legendary career that would include two Super Bowl titles and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

5. Ben Roethlisberger (2004, Pittsburgh Steelers)

Ben Roethlisberger took the NFL by storm in 2004, leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to a 15-1 record and an appearance in the AFC Championship Game. Drafted 11th overall, “Big Ben” was thrust into the starting role in Week 3 due to an injury to the Steelers’ starter. Roethlisberger quickly proved he was up to the challenge, throwing for 2,621 yards and 17 touchdowns while completing 66.4% of his passes. He won all 13 of his regular-season starts, setting an NFL record for the most wins by a rookie quarterback. Roethlisberger’s poise under pressure and ability to make plays on the move laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually include two Super Bowl victories.

6. Gale Sayers (1965, Chicago Bears)

Gale Sayers, known as “The Kansas Comet,” had a rookie season in 1965 that remains one of the most impressive in NFL history. Drafted by the Chicago Bears with the fourth overall pick, Sayers was a dynamic running back, receiver, and return specialist. He scored a staggering 22 touchdowns—14 rushing, 6 receiving, and 2 on special teams—amassing 1,374 yards from scrimmage. Sayers’ most iconic performance came in a single game where he scored six touchdowns against the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing his remarkable versatility and game-breaking ability. Sayers’ rookie season earned him the NFL Rookie of the Year award and solidified his place as one of the most exciting players to ever grace the field.

7. Dak Prescott (2016, Dallas Cowboys)

Dak Prescott wasn’t expected to see the field much in his rookie season after being drafted in the fourth round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2016. However, an injury to Tony Romo in the preseason thrust Prescott into the starting role, and he seized the opportunity in remarkable fashion. Prescott threw for 3,667 yards, 23 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions, leading the Cowboys to a 13-3 record and an NFC East title. His ability to protect the football and make smart decisions under pressure was reminiscent of a seasoned veteran. Prescott’s outstanding performance earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and set the stage for a promising career in Dallas.

These seven NFL rookies not only met the high expectations placed upon them but also exceeded them, setting records and laying the foundations for future success. Their impact on the game was immediate, and their rookie seasons remain some of the most memorable in NFL history. As new talents continue to enter the league, these players serve as benchmarks for what a truly exceptional rookie season can look like.

Will Caleb Williams or Marvin Harrison Jr. have this much of a deep impact in 2024? There certainly is a lot of pressure on them.

Hard Knocking

by

The 2024 NFL season is almost upon us, as Ryan and Wade blast out this week’s Hard Knocking podcast. With the Giants finishing their journey on HBO’s Hard Knocks, it’s time to get into the preseason with the Chicago Bears.

If you want to listen to the whole podcast, just click here for the goods.

Training Camp

NFL Training Camp’s have begun, with many veterans looking to wait at home, while others get surprised by injuries. That’s what preseason is baby!
The 2024 NFL preseason has seen fights between teams, amongst teams, and of course across social media as players pip at each other over the release of the NFL Top 100 List.
Justin Herbert has started the worry-train, with a concerning foot injury that could see the Charger sidelined for the first few games of the season. Harbaugh says he should be ready to go for week 1, but do you really want to rush it?
After an impressive turn with the Titans, De’Andre Hopkins will miss a few games due to an injury, which isn’t great when you’re 32 years old. Luckily the Titans still have Ridley and Tyler Boyd, but will Billie Jeans be able to connect with them?
Geno Smith might have started the season brilliantly last year, but it won’t be the same this year, as his knee went bum, forcing the veteran to have to miss a few weeks to recover. Not much is expected in Seattle this year, so maybe it’s good if they finish strong this year.

Dazn

While US viewers have to battle high prices, competition, and a failed payment from the NFL Ticket lawsuit, we in the UK have to deal with the new and improved Gamepass from Dazn.
When Gamepass first launched in the UK, it was atrocious, but Deltatre and their team quickly moved to rectify the issues, while the fans forced them to cancel their social media accounts. It was a dark storm, but eventually they released a product that most NFL fans in Europe were happy to purchase yearly.
The Dazn launch hasn’t gone as smoothly, with issues last year popping up almost weekly. Luckily, we’re not involved in the drama, but we were witness to the fan forums, league chatter, and fans contacting us directly to complain. (we have nothing to do with Gamepass).
2024 hasn’t gotten off to a great start, with the price jumping up once again, and fans being offered different prices for the same product. Some lucky fans were even able to grab the whole package for less than £50 by cancelling and getting a new offer within hours in the early days, but that has since faded.
UK fans should be happy that we only have the Dazn issue, and that we don’t have to do the USA dance between YouTube, Peacock, and Netflix. Sky only shows 2 games per Sunday, so there are ways to pay per view, watch at a bar etc when your team plays.
The NFL needs to worry about the Firestick revolution. Facebook is awash with daily ads for streaming services, and since most are based in Russia and the Middle East, it’s unlikely they will ever be punished. True streaming pros are now buying bespoke ‘boxes’, which not only offer 50000 channels, but build in encryption so that internet companies are clueless.
As for us, we’re still on Team Gamepass, and are confident that Dazn will get it right, if UK NFL fans continue to make their voices clear. The company has proven they’re listening, so give them a chance before you go dodgy.

NFL Fantasy

Want to join our NFL Fantasy Leagues? We’re running our ‘C’ League and ‘D’ Leagues this year to compliment a few others. A 32 person league that’s free, and using the NFL app.
Send us an email at mapleyankeesports@gmail.com to reserve your spot.

NFL Fantasy History

by

It’s almost time to kick off your NFL Fantasy Football season for 2024, but it hasn’t always been so easy and straightforward to put a team together. What do you know about NFL Fantasy History? The digital age has spoiled fantasy fans with stats and ease, and is a far cry from the hand-written draft picks made a few decades ago. 

Fantasy football has evolved from a niche hobby into a cultural phenomenon that captivates millions of fans each year. So let’s take a look at the history of NFL fantasy leagues, their origins, references in popular culture, and their evolution in the digital age. Who knows, maybe learning about history can help you put your team together? 

Early Beginnings

The concept of fantasy football was first realized in 1962 by Wilfred “Bill” Winkenbach, a part-owner of the Oakland Raiders. Winkenbach, along with a few colleagues, created the GOPPPL (Greater Oakland Professional Pigskin Prognosticators League), marking the inception of fantasy football. This early league comprised eight teams where participants drafted NFL players and scored points based on their real-life performance each week. A bit ironic that it was an NFL owner that started this whole thing that would become a stinger in the butt of the NFL for decades. 

Growth in the 1980s and 1990s

For several years, fantasy football remained a niche hobby, primarily enjoyed by a small group of enthusiasts. However, the 1980s and 1990s saw a surge in its popularity. The proliferation of personal computers and the advent of the internet made managing leagues and tracking player statistics significantly easier. During this period, fantasy football content started appearing in magazines and newspapers, further promoting the game to a broader audience. 

It was in these golden nuggets of magazine culture that real NFL fantasy pros emerged, spending loads of money on ‘NFL Fantasy Packages’ that you could order, and have mailed to your house. 

That’s right kids, it wasn’t always digital love. 

Fantasy Football in Popular Culture

Fantasy football’s rise in popularity inevitably led to its portrayal in television shows and movies. One of the most notable examples is the television show “The League,” which aired from 2009 to 2015. This comedy series revolved around a group of friends deeply involved in their fantasy football league, highlighting both the humor and the intense passion that the game can inspire.

Who can forget some of the greatest moments as the team all vied for Shiva Bowl domination? If you haven’t seen the series, it might be a good time to refresh before the season starts anew. 

Celebrity Involvement

Celebrities and professional athletes have played a significant role in popularizing fantasy football. Notable figures such as actors Paul Rudd and Ashton Kutcher, as well as NFL stars like Peyton Manning and Jerry Rice, have openly shared their enthusiasm for the game. Their involvement has helped bring mainstream attention to fantasy football, making it a familiar pastime in many households.

The Evolution in the Digital Age

The digital revolution transformed fantasy football into a mainstream activity. The late 1990s and early 2000s saw the emergence of online platforms like Yahoo! Fantasy Sports, ESPN Fantasy Football, and CBS Sports. These platforms provided automated scoring systems, live drafts, and detailed player statistics, making it easier for fans to participate and manage their teams. The advent of mobile apps allowed users to manage their teams on the go, further enhancing the game’s accessibility and convenience.

Cut to the 2010’s as Fantasy turned to reality in an explosion of NFL draft providers on a massive digital scale. Providers scrambled to create fun and unique ways to streamline the draft, knowing that the league would soon give the thumbs up to fantasy. 

Advanced Analytics and Tools

The rise of big data and advanced analytics has taken fantasy football to new heights. Platforms now offer in-depth player analysis, predictive models, and customizable scoring systems, allowing participants to make more informed decisions. Tools such as mock drafts, draft kits, and waiver wire advice have become essential for serious fantasy football managers.

Social Media and Community Engagement

Social media has played a pivotal role in fostering fantasy football communities. Platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and Facebook host vibrant communities where fans and experts share insights, discuss strategies, and offer advice. This social aspect has enhanced the overall experience, promoting engagement and camaraderie among participants.

 The NFL’s Stance on Fantasy Football

For many years, the NFL was opposed to fantasy football, concerned that it might detract from the actual games or promote gambling. The league actually hated the idea of fantasy, and looked at ways to kibosh it. However, as the popularity of fantasy football continued to soar, the league began to recognise its potential benefits. Fantasy football increased fan engagement, viewership, and interest in the NFL, ultimately leading to the league’s acceptance and promotion of the game.

Embracing Fantasy Football

Today, the NFL fully embraces fantasy football. The league offers official fantasy games and integrates fantasy content into its broadcasts and digital platforms. NFL RedZone, for example, is a channel specifically designed to appeal to fantasy football players, providing live coverage of all the action from around the league. This integration has helped fantasy football become an integral part of the NFL experience.

Economic Impact and Industry Growth

The fantasy sports industry has grown into a multi-billion-dollar business. According to the Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association (FSGA), over 60 million people in the United States and Canada participate in fantasy sports, with football being the most popular. This industry includes not only league-hosting platforms but also a wide range of related services, such as draft kits, expert analysis, and daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests.

Sponsorships and Partnerships

Major brands and companies have recognized the potential of the fantasy football market, leading to significant sponsorships and partnerships. Companies like DraftKings and FanDuel have become household names, offering daily and weekly fantasy sports contests with substantial cash prizes. The NFL itself has partnered with these platforms, further cementing fantasy football’s place in the sports entertainment landscape.

From its humble beginnings in a hotel room in Oakland to becoming a cultural phenomenon, NFL fantasy leagues have come a long way. The game’s evolution has been driven by technological advancements, media exposure, and the passion of millions of fans. Despite initial resistance, the NFL has embraced fantasy football, recognizing its ability to enhance fan engagement and deepen the connection to the sport.

Fantasy football’s rich history and continuous evolution underscore its enduring appeal, ensuring it will remain a beloved pastime for years to come.

So beloved in fact, we are looking to start a few new Fantasy Leagues for our NFL fans around the world. 

Watch this space, as we will have opportunities to join free and paid leagues in the upcoming weeks. 

2024 NFL Draft

by

It’s that time of year again football fans, as the spring gives way to the thaw of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Eminem has assured us all that he will be giving commissioner Roger Goodell the ‘D’ for tonight, which should pair nicely with the boo’s that he will also receive.
Did we mention that Roger is finally appearing on the Pat McAfee Show for the Draft?
This night is getting even better!

For this edition of the NFL Draft, Wade and Ryan make their picks as to who they think will choose who where and when?
So many possibilities, and that doesn’t even factor into the chance that some teams might be getting QB hungry, and looking to move up to one of the better ones.

To make sure that you get to listen to our 300th episode of our podcast, make sure that you click the link here to get all of the goodness ahead of the big game.

Podcast Highlights

Just to give you a bit of a steer ahead of this Draft, Ryan and Wade have their own little predictions as to who goes where.
So many moving parts in this draft!
Here are some of the things that the guys surmise:

Ryan

-thinks that the #2 pick will be Washington taking Drake Maye
-believes that the Chargers will make a move
-has the Patriots moving to take Michigan alum JJ McCarthy
-Brock Bowers pairs with Aaron Rodgers in New York
-Bo Nix is moving up in the first round
-Buffalo Bills use their only round 1 pick on a receiver.

Wade

-yes, the Bears will take Caleb (he doesn’t like this)
-Minnesota makes a move to trade with Arizona for a QB
-Bears go for O-line at number 9
-Chargers grab Marvin Harrison
-Giants grab DJ a wide receiver
Not too much in the way of spoiler alerts, so if you want to hear how it all goes down, make sure that you have a full listen to the podcast.

Other NFL News

Some other good/ bad and meh news ahead of the Draft, that may or may not factor into player choices.
  • New Orleans Saints offensive tackle James Hurst is retiring after 10 years. Harsh timing to retire the day before the Draft, as the Saints will need another piece to protect Derek Carr.
  • Reggie Bush will get his Heisman Trophy back after the NCAA admits that they ‘got it wrong.’ Ohtani actually bet $1 million that Reggie would get it back, so it all works out.
  • Chicago Bears have released their proposal for a $4 billion dollar makeover on Lake Michigan. It’s the first time in a long time that they have actually considered returning to the downtown core.

Top Offseason Signings

by

If you’re feeling dizzy, that’s because the 2024 NFL season has officially begun, with some stunning moves being made across the league. With many NFL teams crying salary cap broke, others made some big splashes to try to fill in the numerous gaps in their lines. 

There were eye-watering deals like the move the Falcons made to land an ageing Kirk Cousins, or the Bears fire sale of Justin Fields. The 2024 NFL free agency period was full of big names changing teams and massive contracts being handed out. Several franchises made splashy moves to reload their rosters, while others made shrewd value signings.

Let’s take a look at some of the Top Offseason Signings in the NFL. 

Top Signings

Danielle Hunter to Houston

Edge rusher Danielle Hunter scored the biggest payday of the offseason by signing a two-year, $49 million contract with the Houston Texans. At age 29, Hunter was the top pass rusher available and the Texans paid a premium to add him to their defensive line. His deal includes $48 million fully guaranteed. 

After racking up 60.5 sacks over the previous five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Hunter gives the Texans a much-needed boost in their pass rush. He has been one of the most disruptive forces in the league and will make the Texans that much more fierce for 2024. 

Christian Wilkins Cashes in with Raiders

Star defensive tackle Christian Wilkins parlayed his breakout season into a massive payday, signing a four-year, $110 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders that includes $84.75 million guaranteed. It makes the 27-year-old the second highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.

Wilkins had 10.5 sacks and 98 total pressures for the Miami Dolphins in 2023 after totaling just 11 sacks over his first four seasons. The Raiders are betting big that his stellar 2023 was no fluke as they add Wilkins to pair with Maxx Crosby on an improving defensive line.

Josh Jacobs Signs Big Extension with Packers

The Green Bay Packers paid a premium to bring in solid running back Josh Jacobs from the Las Vegas Raiders , signing him to a four-year, $48 million contract with $14.8 million coming in the first year. It’s a significant deal for a running back in today’s pass-happy NFL.

Calvin Ridley Tennessee Bound

Wide receiver Calvin Ridley will be taking balls from Will Levis,  signing a lucrative four-year, $92 million deal with the Tennessee Titans that includes $50 million fully guaranteed. It’s a big investment for a player who missed the entire 2022 season while suspended for betting on NFL games.

Ridley, who turns 29 in December, had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2020 and 2021 with the Atlanta Falcons before being hit with the year-long ban. The former first-round pick should immediately become the No. 1 wideout for the Titans and a top target for whichever quarterback is under center, if Billy Jeans isn’t what the Titans are looking for. 

Notable Moves

Defensive Stars Cashing In

  • Edge rusher Danielle Hunter signed a massive 2-year, $49 million deal with the Houston Texans that includes $48 million guaranteed. Hunter joins the Texans after a productive 5-year run with the Vikings.
  • Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins parlayed a standout season into a 4-year, $110 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders that has $84.75 million guaranteed. Wilkins will team up with Maxx Crosby on the Raiders defensive line.  
  • The Miami Dolphins re-signed defensive tackle DaQuan Jones to a 2-year, $16 million deal with $10.5 million fully guaranteed.

Quarterbacks on the Move

  • The Pittsburgh Steelers acquired Justin Fields from the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2025 conditional Day 3 pick. It didn’t cost much, and might see Fields challenging Russell Wilson for field time. 
  • Russell Wilson signed a 1-year deal with the Steelers after his release from Denver for $1.2 million a year, in a deal that still costs the Broncos for years. 
  • Gardner Minshew inked a 2-year, $25 million contract with $15 million guaranteed to join the Raiders, and should help moustache sales in Nevada.
  • Sam Howell was the ‘man’ in Washington last year, now he’s off to the Seahawks in a trade for future picks. Hopefully he doesn’t get sacked as much on theist coast. 

Running Backs Secure the Bag

  • Tony Pollard joined the Tennessee Titans on a 3-year, $24 million deal.
  • The Texans acquired Joe Mixon from the Bengals in exchange for a 7th-round pick.
  • Aaron Jones will face his former Packers twice a year after signing with the division rival Vikings in a 1 year, $7 million deal 

Wide Receiver Trades/Signings

  • Jerry Jeudy was traded from the Broncos to the Browns for two Day 3 picks.
  • Keenan Allen was dealt from the Chargers to the Bears for a 4th-round selection. Old man Allen should give Caleb Williams some veteran leadership in Chicago.
  • Darnell Mooney hasn’t broken 1000 yards yet, but the Atlanta Falcons are hoping to take the former Bear to new heights in a 3 year deal with $26 million guaranteed.
  • The Eagles moved more money around to snag DeVante Parker on a 1 year deal. 

Offensive Line Movement

  • Guard Robert Hunt signed a huge 5-year, $100 million deal with the Panthers that includes $26.5 million guaranteed.  
  • Center Lloyd Cushenberry joined the Titans on a 4-year, $50 million contract with $26 million guaranteed.
  • The Patriots re-signed guard Mike Onwenu to a 3-year, $57 million deal with $38 million guaranteed.

Of course that’s not the end of the news for the 2024 NFL season, but that’s what we have for you right now.
Make sure you check back here or listen to our podcast for all the latest news. 

To find the latest episode of the podcast, just click here.