The Taxi Squad, the Draft etc.
The proposal to add a Taxi Squad spot in 2026 was passed with a 2/3 majority. It's really pretty simple and I'll go over the details below. First I want to explain why I liked the idea and put it up for a vote.
We are dropping one roster spot (to 15) as per our vote last year. I feel that will free up some talent for the waiver wire but also handicaps us a bit as far as lineup options. Adding the Taxi Squad spot doesn't counteract the roster reduction much and it gives us what I think is an interesting strategy as far as roster construction. Quite a few of us like rolling the dice on rookies (I'm looking at you, Hogan) and with this option we can do that without cramping our rosters. Here is how it works in Q&A form:
Q: Why are we doing this? I thought you wanted to keep things simple.
A: This isn't a change from that. Anything is simple compared to calculating keepers values for 12 rosters of 18 players each and doing spreadsheets for every team. Stuff like this, or adding a second flex, or doing the 'pick your draft slot' thing are just little ways to spice the league up a bit. Some work, some don't. If this proves to be a bad idea we can drop it for 2027.
Q: Do I have to deal with this?
A: Nope, it is entirely optional for everyone. If you don't want to mess with it, you can ignore it.
Q: Why would I want to jack with this?
A: Here's an example...every season NFL clubs will draft some mid-round QBs with the idea that they might nail down the backup role or even serve as the 'get us through the season' starter at some point. Clayton Tune to the Cardinals a couple of years back is a good example. This year Carson Beck is that same guy. Maybe your starter has a rookie behind him. He'd make a good TS candidate to claim for free after the draft. The Ravens drafted an RB who likely won't see much action but if Henry or Hill go down the kid has the talent to help. If you have Henry he might be an option. Stuff like that.
Q: Who goes on the Taxi Squad?
A: Any rookie you either a) draft, or b) claim in the post-draft open claim period (which begins the morning after the draft as always) is eligible. We will draft 14 rounds on Draft Night leaving a 15th spot open to be filled during Open Waivers beginning Tuesday morning. You can use that period to find a hidden gem rookie or use one you drafted. Side note: You use that Open Waiver period to fill your roster whether you use the TS or not. The cost of your first two claims ($10) will be added back to you. Side Note #2: Rookies are designated with (R) after their names in the MFL system.
Q: Where is the page for doing Taxi Squad business?
A: Look for the Taxi Squad link under Transactions on the top menu.
A: Look for the Taxi Squad link under Transactions on the top menu.
Q: How many TS slots are there?
A: One slot, for one-time use. And that slot doesn't count as one of your 15 roster spots.
Q: Can I put a rookie on the TS at any time?
A: You get one, and only one, period to place your NFL rookie on the Taxi Squad.
Q: When can I put a guy on the TS?
A: That period begins after the draft is complete and I've had the chance to upload the rosters. You have to add him before the NFL season's first game. Technically 6 pm Central on Thursday September 10.
Q: Can I have more rookies?
A: Sure! You can draft, claim, drop, trade rookies to your hearts content, as always! But only one can be stashed on the TS and not count against your roster.
Q: Can I switch rookies?
A: Before the TS locks on Thursday the 10th you can swap rookies on or off it but at 6pm on Thursday that option ends.
Q: How long can I keep my TS rookie on the TS?
A: You can keep him on the TS as long as you want this year. You are under no obligation to do anything with him.
Q: How do I put a rookie on the TS and how do I call my TS rookie up to my roster?
A: MFL calls moving a player onto or off your TS 'promoting' and 'demoting'. Once you choose the guy you want to put on the TS use the 'demote' option. You can 'promote' him any old time during the season as long as you have space on your roster. There is also an option to 'drop' your Taxi Squad rookie on the TS page but I'm not sure why you'd do that other than having changed your mind on owning someone before the list locks in the preseason.
Q: If I promote my Taxi Squad rookie can I replace him with a different one on the TS?
A: Nope, once the preseason window closes the rookie on your Taxi Squad is the only one you can place there in 2026.
Q: Can I trade my Taxi Squad rookie?
A: Yes. I learned you can trade him directly from the TS without promoting him when I looked at the setup in the (shitty) dynasty league I was roped into. BUT the team receiving that player needs room on their regular roster because he cannot go on to their Taxi Squad.
There you have it. I made that sound more complicated than it actually is. Think of it this way... between the draft and the first 2026 kickoff you get to throw a rookie into your 'closet'. Once you yank him out, you no longer have a closet.
When: Labor Day, September 7th at 6:30 pm Central, 7:30 Eastern, 5:30 Paz time.
Where: Beats me. I'll let you know.
Details: PrimeTime Draft will again be how we pick online. There is another product I'm still looking at but I'm not sure if I want to venture outside our 'comfort zone'. EDIT: I've now paid for the PTD site so we are using that again for sure. We'll have a Zoom room setup again.
Links for both will be provided via email.
More: We'll draft 14 rounds that night with the usual Open Waivers period beginning Tuesday morning so you can fill gaps.
Specifics will be posted here, on the league site, and via email.
