Crestmont Red Dragons Finalize Roster for 2024 Inaugural Season
By Marvin Lane, Lead Red Dragon Beat Reporter, Crestmont Sports Report
Marvin Lane, Lead Red Dragon Beat Reporter, Crestmont Sports Report
The wait is over. The Crestmont Red Dragons have officially unveiled their 53-man roster for the 2024 inaugural NFL season, and it’s a squad that embodies experience, grit, and a sprinkling of youthful promise. Built without the luxury of an expansion draft or NFL Draft—thanks to owner A.J. McCloud’s controversial acquisition and subsequent dismantling of the Arizona Cardinals—the Red Dragons relied solely on trades and free-agent signings to form a competitive roster. Here's how the roster and offseason moves have shaped the team ahead of their NFC West debut.
Offseason Overview: Trades and Signings
The Red Dragons' offseason strategy prioritized veteran leadership and players with proven production. Among the key acquisitions was quarterback Jameis Winston, the 2024 Cleveland Browns projected backup, who steps in as the projected starter and offensive captain for the Red Dragons. Winston threw for 264 yards and two touchdowns in limited action last season and will have a strong supporting cast, including running back Najee Harris, brought in from Pittsburgh after a 1,000-yard rushing season.
Stephon Gilmore—arguably the team’s marquee signing—adds a lock-down presence in the secondary. The 33-year-old cornerback, fresh off a season with over 50 tackles and two interceptions, will be pivotal in a division brimming with aerial firepower.
On offense, the team’s depth at wide receiver stands out, led by Martavis Bryant, who’s looking to reignite his career as the team’s number one option. Meanwhile, Jimmy Graham’s return to the NFL gives Winston a reliable red-zone target.
The offensive line, anchored by 42-year-old Jason Peters, is a blend of experience and unproven potential. On defense, Jerry Hughes’ leadership and pass-rushing prowess (3 sacks in 2023) will be critical, especially with Jason Pierre-Paul transitioning to defensive tackle in the new “Stormin’ 3-4” scheme.
Notable Players and 2023 Statistics
Offense:
Jameis Winston (QB): 264 yards, 2 TDs, 3 INTs (New Orleans Saints, 2023)
Najee Harris (HB): 1,035 rushing yards, 8 TDs; 170 receiving yards (Steelers, 2023)
Martavis Bryant (WR): Did not play (2023)
Jimmy Graham (TE): 6 REC, 39 yards, 4 TDs (New Orleans Saints, 2023)
Defense:
Jerry Hughes (LE): 3 sacks, 54 tackles, 1 forced fumble (Texans, 2023)
Stephon Gilmore (CB): 54 tackles, 2 INTs, 13 passes defensed (Cowboys, 2023)
Jaylon Smith (ROLB): 2 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 INT (Raiders, 2023)
Predictions for 2024
The Red Dragons are stepping into one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions, the NFC West, where they’ll face established juggernauts like the San Francisco 49ers and the Seattle Seahawks. The lack of young, homegrown talent due to the absence of a draft could pose challenges, but their veteran-laden roster should provide stability in their first season.
Predicted Record: 7-10. While the Red Dragons boast a defense capable of keeping them in games, their offensive consistency remains a question mark. Expect growing pains as the team builds chemistry but also moments of promise, especially from Winston and Harris.
Final Thoughts
The Crestmont Red Dragons’ first season will undoubtedly be one of adaptation and resilience. While they may not yet be contenders, they have a foundation to build upon. With A.J. McCloud’s sports utopia vision in full swing, fans can look forward to a competitive and entertaining team as they take their first steps into NFL history.