I take it that no one actively says the word ‘tank’ but what does a scenario actually look like from owner down to players? Is everyone in on it? Does the GM talk to the owner, sell them on the next potential big draft prospect? Followed by reassuring the head coach that they will be safe? Followed by the coordinators and then strategically putting good players on IR for ‘their safety’? Putting the players in difficult situations and essentially using any remaining games as evaluations for future seasons?
What I was thinking as well. No one actively 'tanks. but you might instead ‘evaluate’ certain players or ‘try new plays’ at the expense of winning. Especially if you are ensured another year or tied at the hip with a GM.