I think the game is great. No, it's not perfect, but with continued love and care it can continue to improve over time.
From a business perspective, I for one would be willing to pay to play this game.I'm sure there are other owners out there who wouldn't mind dropping $20 on a team to keep the game running along with continued improvements. I think with more dialogue and progress this game could have a profitable future from football fanatics like myself who want to compete, discuss, and run a football team.
I don't think paying per season would work as people would lose interest in repetitive payments. Maybe you charge by the team so if players want to have more than one team in another league there would be another charge. This would also keep owners active and engaged, rather than just pick up more and more teams.
I know this idea may sound too radical and some owners may not agree with it. But I believe those who enjoy playing and appreciate the work that is put in from JDB understand that this game with flaws is better than no game at all.
ZR