{Numbers in braces are Approximate Value, other stats labeled as appropriate.}
Year II was a massive disappointment for the Emperors; we’ll see if the changes–especially on defense–bring them back to glory in Year III. There are very few new faces in the starting lineups; which may reveal a lack of depth.
Key Additions: Kenny Graham; Al Smith from TOK.
Key Departures: Tommy James {4, to RIO}; Louie Kelcher {9, to SFO}.
Rookies To Watch: None.
QB
Philip Rivers {10} is back, and again he’ll be seconded by Dan Fouts {2}, who was unsuccessful in finding a starting opportunity elsewhere. Jay Schroeder comes in as the 3rd QB.
RB / WR / TE
The skill positions have never been a concern for Addis Ababa, led by LaDainian Tomlinson {19} at RB and the trio of WRs of Lance Alworth {11}, John Jefferson {3}, and Wes Chandler {8}. Kellen Winslow {8} returns at TE.
The ranks are a little thinner, as both WR Charlie Joiner {2} and TE Antonio Gates {1} have moved on.
OL
T Ron Mix {11} leads the line; he’ll be mirrored by Marcus McNeil {10} and joined by Doug Wilkerson {7} and Louis Vasquez {9} at G. Jim Otto {9} returns at C.
DL
Another team changing to a 3-4, Addis Ababa will again rely on Howie Long {9} and Leslie O’Neal {11} at DE, but with the departure of Louis Kelcher {9}, they’ll need Big Hands Johnson {12} to be even more disruptive in the middle.
LB
Khalil Mack {8} and Ted Hendricks {4} will play on the outside, with Al Smith {2} coming in to man the middle and Junior Seau {9} doing his usual thing all over the field.
DB
Carlos Rogers {11} and Dick Harris {8} start at CB, with Kenny Graham and Eric Weddle {4} at S. There’s a lot of depth here, and expect both rookie Jack Tatum and Charles Woodson {5} to see plenty of action as well.
ST
Sebastian Janikowski {1} is back to K and Mat McBriar {1} returns to handle the punting duties. Gary Anderson and Eric Parker will handle most of the returns.
