AFC East
Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs lead one of the league's most explosive offenses and should be celebrating touchdowns frequently this season. Photo courtesy of AP
1. Buffalo Bills (15-2)
The Bills roster is stacked from top to bottom, led by superstar quarterback Josh Allen, who is a beast in the pass and run game. This offense wants to push the ball downfield and Allen has the capability to do so, along with his impressive receiving core lead by Stefon Diggs. Adding James Cook to the backfield will help expand the run and short passing game, as they Devin Singletary, Zack Moss, and Cook can all play a role. The offensive line is a good group and should protect Allen well. The defensive line has often been a weakness of the team, but they addressed that heavily this offense by adding Von Miller and Daquan Jones. Ed Oliver took a big step forward last season, and they hope that Gregory Rousseau can do the same in his 2nd season. Boogie Basham, Jordan Phillips, and A.J. Epenesa also gives this unit solid depth. Matt Milano and Tremaine Edmunds hold down the fort at linebacker once again, and Tre’Davious White rejoins the lineup this year to the secondary that already includes star safety tandem Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde. Look for rookie cornerbacks Kaiir Elam and Christian Benford to also make contributions on the defense. This team is dangerous and will have opposing teams preparing heavily each week.
2. New England Patriots (9-8)
Bill Belichick has chosen an interesting philosophy this season with not electing to go with an offense coordinator and relegating the duties to Joe Judge and Matt Patricia. The offense has been struggling in camp and could struggle early in the season, but I trust the mind of Belichick in the fact of the matter that the Patriots have been able to use advanced schemes and game planning to find ways to win games. There are no standout superstars on offense, but the group as a whole includes many solid players who can get the job done. The offensive line adds rookie guard Cole Strange to the unit that can perform well in the run and pass game. DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne, and Jakobi Meyers are solid receiving options to go along with tight ends Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith. The running back rotation includes guys who can play many roles in Damien Harris, Rhamondre Stevenson, and Ty Montgomery. I’m confident that the offense will find ways to beat defenses. Defensively, the unit is similar where there are not any superstars, but there are many solid players. Match that with the fact that Belichick is a defensive mastermind, the defense could be difficult for teams to go up against. Matthew Judon and Devin McCourty are the standouts on the defensive side of the ball and are expected to perform well. Belichick also emphasizes the ability to play well on special teams in order to win games. There is more talent on this team than many people are acknowledging and while they are not loaded with superstars, they find ways to win games, and they will be in the hunt for a playoff spot.
3. Miami Dolphins (8-9)
Defensively, the Dolphins have a strong group all over the field. Emmanuel Ogbah, Raekwon Davis, and Christian Wilkins are a solid unit up front, along with promising 2nd year pass rusher Jaelen Phillips, who has the potential to be one of the best in the league at his position. Xavien Howard is a top 10 cornerback and Jevon Holland is an explosive weapon that can be used all over the field. I have faith in the defense to play well. The offense sports some of the best offensive weapons in the league, including Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Mike Gesicki, and a stable of running back who can rotate in and out, which will be dangerous for defenses to defend. The offensive line is not great, but it is not terrible either, and first year head coach Mike McDaniel comes from working with Kyle Shanahan, so he knows a thing or two about the run game and play action offense and should find ways to help out his offensive line with advanced blocking schemes. This is a make-or-break year for Tua Tagovailoa, who has the support to help him succeed, but I believe he will hold the team back. He struggles to push the ball down the field and is small and not consistently efficient. The Dolphins have the makings of a playoff roster, but next offseason they should look for a new quarterback (like they have been). Also, from week 13 to 17 their schedule consists of: at 49ers, at Chargers, at Bills, vs. Packers, and at Patriots, which is a rough stretch to try and close out the season with.
4. New York Jets (6-11)
The Jets have improved their roster this past offseason through the draft and free agency. The offensive line improved with guard Laken Tomlinson being signed and he is familiar with the scheme because of his time with the 49ers. Unfortunately, Mekhi Becton was injured in training camp and is likely out for the season, but they brought in Duane Brown to fill that spot. WR Garrett Wilson and RB Breece Hall were added in the draft and TE C.J. Uzomah was added in free agency. All of these additions should help 2nd year QB Zach Wilson, who has shown his impressive skillset, but needs to be more consistent in showing it. The defensive side of the ball also improved, starting in the secondary, where fourth overall pick Ahmad Gardner was drafted to be a #1 shutdown corner, along with D.J. Reed and Jordan Whitehead being added in free agency, both of which are solid players. C.J. Mosley and Quincy Williams are a solid linebacking core who will do their jobs well. Carl Lawson was injured for the 2021 season but returns to the front four that also includes Quinnen Williams and first round pick Jermaine Johnson. The defense could be tough for opposing offenses if they mix in creative looks and everybody plays up to their potential. The Jets will see improvement this season but are still a young team that will go through ups and downs.
AFC NORTH
The Ravens are poised for a bounce-back season after an injury-riddled 2021. Photo courtesy of USA Today
1. Baltimore Ravens (12-5)
The Ravens struggled mightily with injuries last season and still finished 8-9. This season they come back with A vengeance and return to their dominant ability we have seen in the past. Lamar Jackson leads A creative offense that starts with the run game. J.K. Dobbins is back this season, which will certainly help the run game. The offensive line adds rookie center Tyler Linderbaum, who is a road-grader. The receiving core is not great, but the Ravens hope that Rashod Bateman can step into the WR1 role, and the team also has star tight end Mark Andrews to help out Lamar in the passing game. On the defensive side of the ball the Ravens tout a physical unit. Calais Campbell is now 35 and not what he used to be, but he can still stuff the run. Hopefully Patrick Queen can continue to improve and consistently hold down the middle of the defense. Odafe Oweh has the potential to be a solid pass rusher in the league, the Ravens just have to hope he continues to progress. Marlon Humphrey is a great cornerback and the return of Marcus Peters, the signing of Marcus Williams, and the drafting of Kyle Hamilton will help the secondary greatly compared to last season when it was depleted with injuries. John Harbaugh is one of the better coaches in the league and always has his guys competitive and ready to play.
2. Cincinnati Bengals (11-6)
The Bengals surprised many NFL fans last season, including myself, but after making it to the Super Bowl, they come into the 2022 season with high expectations. The clear weakness of the team last season was the offensive line, and the Bengals vowed to revamp the unit this offseason by signing La’el Collins, Alex Cappa, and Ted Karras. Rookie guard Cordell Volson is also receiving praise in camp and could have an impact. Joe Burrow should continue to grow and has the help from great players at skill positions in Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd, and Joe Mixon. Defensively, they played well last year, especially down the stretch, and return all 11 starters. They added safety Dax Hill in the draft who has the ability to make plays all over the field and could have an impact this season.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)
It seems as if Mitch Trubisky will begin the season as the starting quarterback and Kenny Pickett could take the job at some point, but the offense will be run similarly regardless of which one is under center. The offense has a great arsenal of weapons with wide receivers Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, George Pickens, running back Najee Harris, and tight end Pat Freiermuth. Although, the offensive line did not look good in the preseason and will need to improve if they want to protect the quarterback and utilize their skill position players, which I believe they will be good enough to move the ball downfield. The front seven on defense is physical and impressive, led by T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward. The cornerback group includes Akhello Witherspoon, Levi Wallace, and Cameron Sutton, which is not very impressive, but the imposing pass rush should help them. They also have Minkah Fitzpatrick who is a versatile safety and can make plays all over the field. Mike Tomlin remains one of the best coaches in the league, always gets the best out of his players, and will coach tough football team who will be in the playoff hunt.
4. Cleveland Browns (5-12)
Deshaun Watson will miss the first 11 games, which obviously hurts the team’s chances with Jacoby Brissett under center during that time. Brissett is a serviceable backup, but he is not going to make many spectacular plays, so the team will lean heavily on Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and their offensive line in the run game. The offensive line is a strength of the team, although replacing J.C. Tretter with Ethan Pocic is a drop off, but they should still be fine in that department. Amari Cooper was acquired in the offseason, but besides him the receiving core is not good. Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney lead the defense on the line of scrimmage and have the ability to wreak havoc, but the interior of the defensive line is not a strength. The linebacking core is solid but not great. Denzel Ward and John Johnson III are the best players in the secondary, and Greg Newsome II had A pretty good rookie season and will look to build on that. The team will be a difficult matchup for some teams, but with Jacoby Brissett under center for the first 11 games it will be difficult to keep up in the conference, let alone in their division.
AFC WEST
Khalil Mack was traded to the Chargers this past offseason and will make a big difference for the defense. Photo Courtesy of Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
1. Los Angeles Chargers (13-4)
The Chargers have high expectations heading into the season after big acquisitions in the offseason, including adding Khalil Mack, J.C. Jackson, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Bryce Callahan, Austin Johnson, and Morgan Fox on the defensive side, all of which should help revamp the unit. These new key pieces join Superstar Joey Bosa and Derwin James for what could be a great defense. Justin Herbert has had a great start to his career and the offense should continue to be productive. Keenan Allen and Mike Williams are proven commodities at the receiving position and the team will hope that 2nd year receiver Joshua Palmer can step up in year 2. The offensive line added rookie guard Zion Johnson in the draft and hope that will help protect their investment at quarterback and maintain a run game. I am buying the Chargers stock and believe they could contend for a Super Bowl.
2. Kansas City Chiefs (12-5)
Former Chiefs receivers Tyreek Hill and Sammy Watkins have both made comments praising their new quarterback’s in comparison to Patrick Mahomes, and he is coming off his worst season, which will give him extra motivation to go out and prove how great he really is. The offense loses Hill and his deep threat, but Andy Reid will get guys open in creative ways, and the offense will barely lose a step, if at all. On defense, the secondary is suspect, but the front four will help them, led by Chris Jones, Frank Clark, and rookie defensive end George Karlaftis, who has shown promise in the preseason. The Chiefs will still be a contender in the AFC and Mahomes could have an MVP-level season.
3. Las Vegas Raiders (9-8)
Offensive mastermind Josh McDaniels gets another shot at a head coaching opportunity and has talent to work with. Derek Carr is a great passer and now has college-teammate Davante Adams as his #1 receiving option, along with Hunter Renfrow and Darren Waller. These three options will be very difficult for teams to match up against. Although on the offensive line besides Kolton Miller, the group lacks top end skill and could struggle. On defense, Chandler Jones was signed in the offseason, which makes the pass rushing duo of him and Maxx Crosby a difficult one for opposing offensive lines to go against. As for the rest of the defense, Denzel Perryman is a solid linebacker and the secondary is alright, but not very good. The offensive weapons matched with McDaniels will allow this team to win some games, but the lack of all-around talent and the division they’re in will make it difficult to earn a playoff position.
4. Denver Broncos (8-9)
The Broncos have been looking for a franchise quarterback since Peyton Manning left and traded for Russell Wilson to find their solution. The passing attack will improve with Wilson under center and the receiving group can finally be utilized the correct way, as they are very talented but have not had great quarterbacks. The offensive line is a solid group, and the run game should continue to be productive. While Russell Wilson is still a good quarterback, he does not have the escapability that he once had and will have to be efficient from the pocket. The defensive side of the ball is what worries me. Randy Gregory and D.J. Jones were good additions to the front seven in the offseason, but the rest of the unit is not great. Bradley Chubb has talent but has struggled to stay healthy and consistent. Pat Surtain II had a promising rookie year and Justin Simmons is proven to be a great safety, but the front seven could hurt the defense. The AFC West is also the toughest division in football which will make it difficult to make the playoffs, or even be above .500.
AFC SOUTH
Trevor Lawrence is poised for a potential breakout season with new head coach Doug Pederson. Photo courtesy of Phelan M. Ebenhack, AP
1. Tennessee Titans (10-7)
Mike Vrabel leads a well-coached, who prioritizes the run game on offense and physicality on both sides of the ball. The offense has two new starting receivers in Robert Woods and Treylon Burks, but they can lean on workhorse running back Derrick Henry and A solid offensive line unit. The addition of Austin Hooper at tight end should also help Ryan Tannehill in the passing game. Defensively, Jeffery Simmons is a beast in the trenches and can dominate up front. Bud Dupree and Harold Landry are a quality pass rushing duo on the edge, and inside backers David Long Jr, and Zach Cunningham are also capable of making plays. Veteran safety Kevin Byard leads an otherwise young secondary group, which has shown promise and should continue to improve. The AFC South is not a great division and the Titans are definitely capable of bringing home the division title.
2. Indianapolis Colts (8-9)
This Colts continue to rotate through different starting quarterbacks ever since Andrew Luck retired and are now on their next one, giving Matt Ryan a shot. They are a run-first offense with star running back Jonathan Taylor. Quenton Nelson is of the best guards in the league and Ryan Kelly and Braden Smith also perform well in the run and pass blocking game, but Danny Pinter is unproven, and with Matt Pryor starting at left tackle, Matt Ryan should be worried about his backside protection. Michael Pittman is a nice weapon, but Alec Pierce is an unproven rookie and Parris Campbell struggles to stay healthy. These factors do not add up to a great passing attack. On defense, the front four should perform well, with dominant presence DeForest Buckner lining up in the interior, and Yannick Ngakoue pass rushing off the edge. Shaquille Leonard is consistently one of the best linebackers in the league and Bobby Okereke is also solid. Stephon Gilmore is still a good corner and Kenny Moore excels at nickelback, but the rest of the corners on the team are not great, so they could struggle in the secondary. The Colts will be a competitive team, but I do not see Matt Ryan as A significant upgrade over Carson Wentz and envision a similar season compared to the last.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-10)
After an abysmal 2021 season, the Jaguars made major adjustments throughout the team. Urban Meyer’s coaching performance was an embarrassment for the organization, but this season a much more professional Doug Pederson takes the reigns as head coach and will be vital in Trevor Lawrence’s development. Lawrence has immense talent and has looked sharper this preseason with a quicker motion and looking more confident, and he now has more weapons and protection on offense, with the additions of wide receiver’s Christian kirk and Zay Jones and right guard Brandon Scherff. Clemson teammate Travis Etienne missed all of last season but returns this year as another weapon for the offense. The team invested the first overall pick in Travon Walker, who is a menacing physical presence that can disrupt the run and the pass game for opposing offenses. The front seven, which also includes Josh Allen, Foyesade Oluokun, run-stuffing specialist Folorunso Fatukasi, and rookie linebacker Devin Lloyd, has the looks of a solid group who could be difficult for offenses to go up against. As for the secondary, it does not look great, but if the players are coached well there could be improvement. The Jaguars will be a competitive team who will give teams a great effort each week, but the AFC is stacked, and it will be difficult to make the playoffs, although their division is not very strong, so if they snuck in, I would not be very surprised.
4. Houston Texans (4-13)
The Texans are in a rebuilding process and have some bright spots on the roster, but as a whole they do not have enough difference makers. Davis Mills leads the offense in a trial season to see if he is worthy of being a franchise quarterback or not. Laremy Tunsil is the bright spot on the line and rookie guard Kenyon green provides potential. Brandin Cooks is A solid veteran receiver, but Nico Collins will have to step up as the #2 option. Dameon Pierce is an explosive, physical running back who has the ability to win offensive rookie of the year and will be exciting to watch. Defensively, Jonathan Greenard showed potential last season with 8 sacks and could build on that. Besides him, the rest of the defense’s veterans are not spectacular. The players to be excited about are rookies Derek Stingley Jr., Jalen Pitre, and Christian Harris, who will all receive tons of playing time. This team will not make the playoffs, but they will hope to see some progression amongst the young players on their team.
NFC EAST
The Eagles made some big splashes this offseason, highlighted by trading for A.J. Brown, adding an explosive element to the offense. Photo courtesy of Yahoo Sports
1. Philadelphia Eagles (10-7)
The strength on both sides of the ball is the trenches, which favors well for this team. The offensive line is top 5 in the league and their prowess in the run game and pass protection was great last season and will continue to be great this season. The addition of A.J. Brown will help their threat of a passing attack, along with DeVonta Smith, Quez Watkins, and Dallas Goedert. The depth at running back is not great, as they do not have a downhill power back, which would fit well in this offense. The success of the offense falls on Jalen Hurts shoulders, who can make all the easy throws and use his legs, but when those are taken away and he has to make multiple reads or pass downfield, he struggles. If he can improve on the weaker aspects of his game, the offense can expand and be more dangerous against the better defenses in the league. The front four on defense is loaded, with Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, Jordan Davis, and Milton Williams in the interior rotation and Brandon Graham, Josh Sweat, Derek Barnett on the edge, with Haason Reddick also being able to rush the passer on passing downs. The defensive line rotation is always a key to a successful team because it keeps legs fresh and the backups can bring just as much juice as the starters. T.J. Edwards and Kyzir White are a solid linebacking unit, along with rookie Nakobe Dean who could see playing time. Darius Slay and James Bradberry are a very good at the cornerback tandem and the addition of C.J. Gardner-Johnson in the safety department is a great move. The team will be difficult to play against because of the strength in the trenches and has a good enough roster to win the division.
2. Dallas Cowboys (9-8)
The Cowboys have an interesting roster, with some holes to it, but also some great players along the way. Tyron Smith being out until at least December will definitely hurt, but rookie Tyler Smith was drafted to eventually step into the starting left tackle role, and his time has come sooner rather than later. Zack Martin is still a great guard, and the rest of the line should be able to hold up and perform well enough. Ezekiel Elliott is past his prime, but he is still able to ground and pound, and Tony Pollard is a versatile weapon who had efficient statistics last season and can be used in the run and pass game. CeeDee Lamb steps into the full time WR1 role, which I believe he will perform well in. Michael Gallup will miss time early, but when he returns, he will help the passing game. Defensively, Demarcus Lawrence creates pressure against the run and the pass up front and will be leaned on to perform. Micah Parsons is the best player on the defense, A DPOY candidate, and can be used as a linebacker or pass rusher. Trevon Diggs likely will not have as many interceptions as last season, but he is still capable of making game-changing plays. Jayron Kearse is also an underrated piece of the defense at safety. The defense has the few great players listed but will need others to step up. The offense will have to perform well and Dak will have to put the team on his back at times this season.
3. Washington Commanders (9-8)
The Commanders upgraded at quarterback this past offseason by trading for Carson Wentz, who was pretty good for the majority of last season. Wentz gets to play with the best receiver of his career in Terry McLaurin, and the team also used a first-round pick on Jahan Dotson, who will be utilized a great deal. The running back rotation includes Antonio Gibson, J.D. McKissic, and Brian Robinson, which is a versatile group. Curtis Samuel can also have an effect on the passing and rushing attack. The offensive line is also a solid unit that is expected to perform well. Do not sleep on this offense. Unfortunately for the Commanders, Chase Young will be out at least four games, and the depth on their D-line is not great, but they still do have Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, and Montez Sweat, who will be depended on heavily in the weeks that Young is out. Jamin Davis showed flashes of good play last year but needs to take another step this season. William Jackson III struggled in his first year in Washington, but the team needs him to bounce back to help the secondary. The group as a whole will likely be an up and down group. The team will be in many close games and should be in the hunt for a wild card spot.
4. New York Giants (3-14)
This is Daniel Jones’ last season to prove if he can be the starting quarterback for the Giants, and there is not a great roster filled with playmakers to help him out. The team drafted Evan Neal to help protect him, but he has not looked great in the preseason, although he could play up to par in the regular season. Besides him and Andrew Thomas, the O-line still is not great. At receiver, Kenny Golladay has struggled and looks like a terrible signing and Sterling Shepard is talented but struggles to stay healthy. Although, I love Kadarius Toney’s ability and game-changing skillset. Saquon Barkley could have a bounce back year if the line can block for him. On defense, there are a few good pieces but there is not much to love. Leonard Williams is very good up front, but Kayvon Thibodeaux has not looked great and will begin the season on the injury report. Xavier McKinney is solid in the secondary, but overall, there are not many playmakers on this team, and I see this as a rebuilding year for the team.
NFC WEST
Deebo Samuel is all smiles after receiving A well deserved contract extension this offseason. Photo courtesy of David J. Phillip/ Associated Press
1. San Francisco 49ers (11-6)
The Trey Lance era is set to begin this season. While Trey Lance may not be as consistent or trustworthy as Jimmy Garoppolo, he does allow the offense to expand into more downfield passing and running ability from the QB position. Trent Williams is a future hall of famer and Mike McGlinchey solid piece on the offensive line, but the interior is unproven, although Kyle Shanahan is an offensive mastermind and will likely be able to scheme up many variations for the run game to maintain success. The skill positions on the offense, led by Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, are a great group with depth and will help Lance succeed. On the defensive end, the 49ers have one of the best units in the league. Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead consistently dominate in the trenches and there is depth in the front four group. Fred Warner leads a physical linebacking core that includes Dre Greenlaw and Azeez Al-Shaair, who play well in their roles. Emmanuel Moseley and Charvarius Ward are a good pair of corners on the outside and while the secondary is not spectacular, it is good enough and gets help from a great pass rush. Jimmie Ward may not be ready for week 1, but whenever he returns, he will help out the backend of the defense. Even with Trey Lance being unknown as a starter, the roster and play calling is at a high enough level that the team can still make the playoffs.
2. Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
The defending Super Bowl Champs return a top heavy, star powered roster to the field this season. Quarterback Matthew Stafford gets a new weapon in Allen Robinson to go along with Cooper Kupp and Van Jefferson, which will certainly help the offense. Odell Beckham is still a free agent, but when he gets healthy, I could see him rejoining the team, as he was great with the Rams last season. The offensive line is a solid unit and Cam Akers gets to start the season at RB1. On defense they return Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey, arguably the best players at their respective positions, as well as other high-quality players in Leonard Floyd and Jordan Fuller. Bobby Wagner was added to the defense in the offseason, but he is not as quick or as good as he once was. If the team’s starters can stay healthy, they will likely have another playoff appearance, but if they struggle to stay healthy there could be a drop in performance and record because of the lack of depth. Stafford comes into the season with an elbow issue, which is something to be aware of when acknowledging the outlook of the team, but if he can stay healthy and productive the team should be fine.
3. Arizona Cardinals (8-9)
Kyler Murray received his new contract and has some new weapons to work with on offense. Marquise Brown was acquired in the offseason, along with Darrel Williams, who will be utilized as the pass catching back. Rondale Moore will also be expected to step up this season, especially in the first 6 weeks while DeAndre Hopkins is suspended. The offense will need to be creative while he is gone in order to still be productive and win games. As for the defense there are some question marks. J.J. Watt is still a good player when he is healthy, but has struggled with that aspect, and the rest of the front seven is suspect. Isaiah Simmons has had an up and down career to this point and Markus Golden and Zach Allen are serviceable starters, but Zaven Collins has to take a massive step in year 2. The cornerback position is not great. Byron Murphy Jr. is a solid option, but Trayvon Mullen, Marco Wilson and Antonio Hamilton will also see the field. The highlight of the defense is Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson, who are two quality, playmaking safeties. The roster is solid but the holes on defense and no DeAndre Hopkins for 6 games will hurt the team, and Kliff Kingsbury has a track record of his team’s falling off towards the end of seasons. Kingsbury is on the hot seat and cannot allow that to happen if he wants to keep his job.
4. Seattle Seahawks (4-13)
The Seahawks have chosen to head into this season with either Geno Smith, which is not the best idea if you want to compete for a playoff spot. Smith is serviceable, but he is not going to lead the team to many victories. DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett are still great options at receiver, but the passing attack will not be consistently effective. The offensive line brings in rookie Charles Cross at left tackle, who has the potential to be a good player, but the unit as a whole is not spectacular. Pete Carroll will want to run the football, chew clock, and play solid defense, in order to try and win games. There a few bright spots on defense, with edge rusher Darrell Taylor showing promise early in his career, and a solid front 3 that consists of Shelby Harris, Al Woods, and Poona Ford. Jordyn Brooks is a playmaker at linebacker and Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs are a great safety duo, but the team is not great at corner and the defense will likely lack consistency. Overall, the team could be competitive in games, but I do not think the roster is good enough to make it very far this season.
NFC NORTH
Justin Jefferson is a potential Offensive Player of the Year candidate in the new Vikings offense. Photo courtesy of the Minnesota Vikings
1. Green Bay Packers (13-4)
Losing Davante Adams was a big departure this past offseason, but I believe it will allow the Packers to lean more on the run game, with two very good running backs in Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon and spread the ball around more in the pass game. Rookie Romeo Doubs has looked great in camp and could be a vital piece of the passing attack, and there is also 2nd round receiver, Christian Watson, who could have an impact as well. Let’s also not forget that back-to-back MVP, Aaron Rodgers, leads this group and is still one of the best quarterbacks in the game. The defense has the potential to be the best in the league. Star cornerback Jaire Alexander returns this season and leads an impressive secondary unit, including safeties Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage. De’Vondre Campbell is coming off of a great season, as well as Rashan Gary, who took another step in his development and should continue to be a dominant force. Jarran Reed was a solid addition in free agency, as well as the pair of first round picks from Georgia, linebacker Quay Walker and interior defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt, who should both have a meaningful impact this season.
2. Minnesota Vikings (11-6)
The offense gets new life and will look much more creative than in the past, as new head coach Kevin O’Connell comes from working with Sean McVay and the Rams. He gets to utilize great skill position players in Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, and Dalvin Cook, as well as K.J. Osborn, who the team views highly, and promising, young tight end Irv Smith Jr. The offense should put up numbers and be difficult to stop, as I expect a big season for Kirk Cousins and the unit as a whole. Defensively, Za’Darius Smith joins the team and Danielle Hunter returns this season, which could create havoc for opposing offensive lines. Eric Kendricks, Harrison Smith, and Patrick Peterson will hold down their positions on the defense, but the Vikings will have to hope rookies Andrew Booth Jr. and Lewis Cine can provide for the unit, which I believe they will, as I was fond of both prospects coming out of college. The Vikings will be improved this year and could compete for the division title.
3. Detroit Lions (6-11)
The Lions embrace a physical style of football and never quit. The team emphasizes the trenches on both sides of the ball and winning the line of scrimmage often leads to wins. The offensive line has the ability to be a top 10 unit and will help the offense move the ball. Amon-Ra St.Brown is a versatile weapon and DJ Chark was added in the offseason. Jared Goff is not the most physically gifted quarterback and will make the plays that are there but is not going to extend many plays and make something out of nothing. The front four on defense is solid and includes first round pick Aidan Hutchinson, who has could be a difference maker for the team. The linebacking core is not great, but the secondary has a few pieces that could be solid if they play up to their potential, including Amani Oruwariye and DeShon EIlliot. Jeff Okudah returns from injury this season and it will be interesting to see how he looks. While Dan Campbell is loved for his old-school style by many fans, the roster may not have enough pieces to make a run for a playoff position, but they will make it difficult for teams to beat them.
4. Chicago Bears (2-15)
The Bears roster is not good, although there are a few bright spots. Offensively, Darnell Mooney and David Montgomery are great skill position players, and Cole Kmet has the potential to be A solid player in the league. Justin Fields has a strong arm and playmaking ability and has the potential to be very good, but the offensive line is not good and will struggle to protect him. While there will be spurts of quality play, it will be difficult for the offense to consistently play well. On defense it is much of the same. Robert Quinn and Roquan Smith are very talented players, but Eddie Jackson has been on a decline and Jaylon Johnson has shown an ability to perform well but could be more consistent. Overall, neither unit is well-rounded, and the team will likely struggle.
NFC SOUTH
The Saints have a talented roster, but can Jameis Winston play well enough to get his team to the playoffs? Photo courtesy of Butch Dill/AP Photo
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-6)
The interior of the offensive line is already at a deficit, as two starters are already out with injury, and Brady can struggle when pressure comes from up the middle. Although, the rest of the roster is still loaded with talent. With Tom Brady taking a break from training camp and the injuries on the line, it will be interesting to see how the offense can gel early in the season and if there will be any struggles. The defensive side of the depth chart is filled with talent. Vita Vea and offseason acquisition Akiem Hicks are a force to be reckon with on the interior, along with Shaquil Barrett and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka on the edges, and Devin White and Lavonte David remain of the league’s best linebacking duos. The cornerback position has three solid corners in Carlton David III, Jamel Dean, and Sean Murphy-Bunting, along with the talented Antoine Winfield Jr. at the free safety position. I won’t be surprised if they get off to a slow start, but the defense is strong enough to get them through it and over the course of the season they should improve.
2. New Orleans Saints (10-7)
The Saints roster as a whole is very impressive and will allow them to be a successful team this season. The defensive unit is fast, physical, has tons of depth, and continues to be coached by new head coach Dennis Allen, who has been defensive coordinator since 2015. Safeties Tyrann Mathieu and Marcus Maye are added to a squad that already includes Marshon Lattimore, Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, and many more. It will be difficult for offenses to score on this defense. On offense, the receiving core is revamped with Michael Thomas returning from injury, free agency signing Jarvis Landry, and first round draft pick Chris Olave, which should help Jameis Winston in the passing attack. The Saints roster is talented and as long as Dennis Allen can coach well-enough, this team should be A competitor in the NFC and make the playoffs.
3. Carolina Panthers (7-10)
The Panthers upgraded at quarterback this offseason by trading for Baker Mayfield and that will help the team. DJ Moore has top 10 receiver type talent and could prove it this season with Mayfield under center. If Christian McCaffrey can stay healthy that will also help the offense out greatly. The offensive line is not the best unit but could be serviceable, and the Panthers hope that Ikem Ekwonu can be a franchise left tackle. Defensively, they have a solid unit for the most part. Brian Burns leads an underrated front four that can apply pressure against the run and pass. Shaq Thompson leads a linebacking core that could impress. Jeremy Chinn and Donte Jackson are the vital pieces of the secondary and Jaycee Horn returns after a promising beginning to his rookie season before suffering a season-ending injury. I do not envision this being a playoff team, but I would not be that shocked if they outperformed my expectations and snuck into a wild card spot if many of the dominoes fell in their favor.
4. Atlanta Falcons (2-15)
This team has a few bright spots, but overall, the roster is not good. Kyle Pitts is a dangerous weapon for the offense, Cordarrelle Patterson is coming off of a pretty good season, and 2022 first-round pick Drake London has a promising future, but there’s not much else defenses should be afraid of. The offensive line is nothing special, and whether Marcus Mariota or Desmond Ridder is starting at quarterback, the offense will likely struggle. Defensively, Grady Jarrett and AJ Terrell are talented players, but the rest of the unit is lackluster. Lorenzo Carter and Rashaan Evans are solid additions but will not make enough of an impact to vastly improve the team.
​AFC Conference | ​NFC Conference |
1.Buffalo Bills (15-2) 2.Los Angeles Chargers (13-4) 3.Baltimore Ravens (12-5) 4.Tennesee Titans (10-7) 5.Kansas City Chiefs (12-5) 6.Cincinnati Bengals (11-6) 7.Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) | 1.Green Bay Packers (13-4) 2.San Francisco 49ers (11-6) 3.Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11-6) 4. Philadelphia Eagles (10-7) 5.Minnesota Vikings (11-6) 6.Los Angeles Rams (10-7) 7.New Orleans Saints (10-7) |
8.Las Vegas Raiders (9-8) 9.New England Patriots (9-8) 10.Indianapolis Colts (8-9) 11.Miami Dolphins (8-9) 12.Denver Broncos (9-8) 13.Jacksonville Jaguars (7-10) 14.New York Jets (6-11) 15.Cleveland Browns (5-12) 16.Houston Texans (3-14) | 8. Dallas Cowboys (9-8) 9.Washington Commanders (9-8) 10.Arizona Cardinals (8-9) 11.Carolina Panthers (6-11) 12.Detroit Lions (6-11) 13.Seattle Seahawks (4-13) 14.New York Giants (4-13) 15.Chicago Bears (2-15) 16.Atlanta Falcons (2-15) |
AFC Wild Card 5.Kansas City Chiefs vs. 4. Tennessee Titans 6.Cincinnati Bengals vs. 3. Baltimore Ravens 7.Pittsburgh Steelers vs. 2. Los Angeles Chargers | NFC Wild Card 5.Minnesota Vikings vs. 4. Philadelphia Eagles 6.Los Angeles Rams vs. 3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7. New Orleans Saints vs. 2. San Francisco 49ers |
AFC Divisional 5.Kansas City Chiefs vs.2. Los Angeles Chargers 6.Cincinnati Bengals vs. 1. Buffalo Bills | NFC Divisional 5.Minnesota Vikings vs. 2. San Francisco 49ers 6.Los Angeles Rams vs. 1. Green Bay Packers |
AFC Championship 5.Kansas City Chiefs vs. 1. Buffalo Bills | NFC Championship 2.San Francisco 49ers vs. 1. Green Bay Packers |
Super Bowl
Buffalo Bills, 30 vs. Green Bay Packers, 27