Madden 18 is right around the corner and looking ahead, we wanted to break down some of the players that we think would be best to build your dynasty around. It’s important to note that just because you do have this player does not mean you are good to go. When building a successful Madden franchise, you will need to have a well-rounded roster in order to compete.

These are just players that are cornerstone pieces and can help contribute to lasting success. We’re going to take a look at two players: one offensive and one defensive. Just because some users have different play styles and preferences.

Offensive Player

QB – Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

When starting a franchise in Madden 18, you want to have the quarterback position locked up. It is essential if you want to consistently move the chains and score touchdowns. The quarterback that you want on your team is Andrew Luck. He is still only 27 years old and has shown multiple elite traits since entering the league in 2012.

Quarterbacks tend to have a longer lifeline then other positions. For example, Tom Brady is 40 years old and still playing at a high level. Last year, Andrew Luck’s Madden 17 final rating was an 87 which is a little bit above average. In Madden 17 he also had the “Star Development” trait which allows him to earn XP often and a lot quicker than other players. This allows him to boost his overall game much faster.

Entering his prime, Luck will give your roster the best chance to win now with the possibility of boosting his overall fairly quickly. I’d expect him to retain the “Superstar” trait in Madden 18 as well. Whether you are starting a franchise with the current rosters or doing a fantasy draft, Andrew Luck is the guy you want taking control of your offense.

Honorable Mentions: Russell Wilson, Derek Carr, Cam Newton, Jameis Winston, Marcus Mariota, Le’Veon Bell and Carson Wentz. 

Defensive Player

DE – Khalil Mack, Oakland Raiders

If you like build a defensive bully on your Madden franchise, Khalil Mack is the guy you want on your team. The reigning “Defensive Player of the Year” has consistently gotten better each year. Mack is 26 years old and entering his fourth year in the league.

Last year, the defensive end finished with a 98 overall rating in Madden. I predict he enters next year as a 99 overall because he won DPOY. Similar to quarterbacks, EDGE rushers tend to have a long life in the NFL as well. For example, Julius Peppers is still playing and he is 37 years old.

Similar to Luck, Mack also has the “Superstar” development trait which will only make him better faster. He will provide your defense with a destructive force on the edge of the defensive line. He is obviously best used at getting to the quarterback for a sack rather than dropping in any sort of coverage.

Mack predicts to be dominant for a long time. If your defense is built around this guy at the helm, you may be able to wreck havoc.

Honorable Mentions: Aaron Donad, Von Miller, Joey Bosa, J.J. Watt and Myles Garrett. 

Whether you like to build a dominant offense or a strong defense, these are two young players who help your franchise get to the Super Bowl.