You will find a "Confidence" stat in CF that impacts specific player ratings from week to week. The number starts at 50 and can go as high as 99. Whenever you switch a player from second string to first, that player gains 5 points, so you can simply switch two players back and forth and exit the depth chart for an easy boost to one player. Then make another swap, and repeat the process as often as desired to max the Confidence stat.
Secure any draft pick or player
You can trade for any draft pick or player that suits you while in connected franchise. First, start a franchise and create your coach. Then, press the button indicated on the home screen to create a new player. Next, create a coach or owner for the team that features the player you want to draft. Now, take control of that coach and set up the desired trade. When you have all of the picks and players you want, you can retire that coach or owner and return to your normal game with your ill-gotten team.