I was wondering what other members on the board thought about the chances of other teams going into next season, and how much rebuilding teams will have to do. Chicago: I think Chicago is primed to repeat as regular season champs next season, and I say this for a couple of reasons. First, I'm sure that Razov and Ralph will be back. Both players are huge catalysts for the Fire offense and, I think, necessary to the team's continued (short term) success. I also think that Marsch and Armas will be back. Even if they aren't, Logan Pause will likely be ready to step in and take over their duties should one of them depart (although he'll have big shoes to fill regardless of how well he performs.) If Williams leave (as has been rumored), Mapp is a very capable replacement, but I don't really see Williams going anywhere and would likely put Mapp on the left should Beasley make the move overseas. Second, on the defensive side of the ball, Chicago may be in pretty good shape regardless of whether Bocanegra returns or not (and I don't think he will.) Kelly Gray would be able to step in (he's been with the team for two years now seeing limited time.) Their weakness however, will be in the defense, mostly on the wings (see, Perez.) This position could be filled if there is money left over from the likely signings of Thornton and Razov. LA is also looking pretty down in the dumps right now, and may be in store for a rebuilding season. Then again, they might be able to offload enough cap space to make some big signings (like re-signing Ruiz whose contract is, I believe, expired) and keep this team competitive. Any other comments? arguments? disagreements? etc.
I believe Ruiz has one more year on his contract but Cien retiring will clear up some salary space. He was making a lot.