NFL Season Preview Power Rankings
32. Cleveland Browns (4-12)
Some may say I am being too hard on a Browns team that took what may have taken the best player in the draft in running back Trent Richardson. Despite this, I still think the Browns will contend for being the worst team in the league. Their problems lie mainly with the offensive skill positions. Outside of Richardson (who is already having knee issues), who are the playmakers? Greg Little could take a step forward but I doubt his ability to be a Number 1 caliber wideout. Josh Gordon is extremely physically gifted, but can he contribute right away after being taken with a very aggressive second round pick in the supplemental draft? New quarterback Brandon Weeden is a senior citizen aged rookie, at 28 years old, and it remains to be seen whether his advanced age will help him transition to the pro game quickly. Despite the makings of a solid offensive line and defense, a lot will have to swing just right for the Browns to approach a .500 record this season.
31. Miami Dolphins (6-10)
Optimism always abounds for teams when new regimes take over and especially when a new quarterback comes to town. However, that does not mean success is in the immediate future for new head coach Joe Philbin and his rookie signal caller, Ryan Tannehill. The Dolphins have major issues on both sides of the ball. The plan was to develop Tannehill, who had minimal starts at QB after starting his college career at wide receiver, slowly. However, with injuries to David Garrard (the favorite to win the starting job) and Matt Moore looking like he is a poor system fit, that plan seems to be compromised. Tannehill now looks like he may be forced to start the regular season opener, and it is unclear if he is ready. Couple that with the fact that his receiving core lacks talent, even before Chad Johnson was released, it is doubtful Tannehill will find early success in his first year. In addition to the offense, the Dolphins are switching from a base 3-4 defense to a 4-3. The defense was pretty good for the team last year so it would seem this switch is ill advised. All in all, things could be bright for the future of the Dolphins, but not this year.
30. Indianapolis Colts (2-14)
The Colts are probably the luckiest team in the league. Coming off a disastrous season where they lost future hall of famer Peyton Manning to a number of neck surgeries, their reward for stinking up the joint is Andrew Luck, whom many consider to be the best quarterback prospect to come out of college since Mr. Manning himself. He will make this team better than the motley crew of Curtis Painter and Dan Orlovsky. However, the rest of the team may not be on Luck’s level yet. The running backs do not seem to have a top guy ready to emerge and the offensive line lost some guys and needs players to step up. Wide receiver Reggie Wayne surprisingly returned to catch passes from Luck but they will need someone else from the group of Austin Collie, Donnie Avery and speedster rookie T.Y. Hilton to step up. The tight end group looks to be a strength after the drafting of Luck’s teammate Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen. Defensively, new head coach Chuck Pagano is trying to install an aggressive 3-4 scheme like the one he coached last year for Baltimore. However, that could not be any more different than the Tampa-2 scheme the Colts have run for over a decade. The transition will take time especially with a huge dearth of frontline talent. I have no doubt this team will find success with Andrew Luck, but it will take time.
29. Oakland Raiders (8-8)
The Raiders are once again in transition, but I think they may have finally found the right guys for the job. General Manager Reggie McKenzie and head coach Dennis Allen couldn’t have been thrown into a more difficult situation taking over after the passing of longtime owner Al Davis. The Raiders had virtually no cap room to work with and had to rid themselves of numerous bad contracts. Subsequently their depth has really suffered. There are many things to like about Oakland’s team. Carson Palmer will now have much more time with the team to get comfortable after being hurled into action midseason in 2011. He also has some good young receivers to work with and if Darren McFadden could stay healthy, not one of his strong suits; he could easily be the top running back this season. The offensive line also has some talented young players with LT Jared Veldheer and C Stefen Wisniewski. On defense Richard Seymour is still getting it done and the Raiders have other good players on the D-Line. The rest of the defense has holes. The cornerback position has to be an area of concern since it is filled with declining veterans and unproven young players. As I mentioned, the issue with the Raiders is depth. Injuries are bound to happen to every team, and when they happen in Oakland, it will mean trouble.
28. Minnesota Vikings (3-13)
I liked what Minnesota did in the offseason. They had a good draft haul with LT Matt Kalil being the headliner. He should solidify his spot on the offensive line and be a top blind side protector on a developing line. I also think when Jerome Simpson (thug4life) returns from his three game suspension, for having a stupid amount of marijuana in his home, he could take some pressure off of Percy Harvin. Harvin is a head case (migraine pun unintended) no doubt about it, but when he is focused and healthy he can be one of the top explosive playmakers in the league. There are three big concerns with the Vikings. First and foremost is Adrian Peterson’s health. Peterson is a once-a-decade talent, but after tearing the ACL and MCL in his knee last year his status for this season’s opener would seem in jeopardy. The big issue is that because he is such a huge part of their offensive attack and he is such an incredible player, it is likely the player and team will rush his comeback. This is a horrific idea and Peterson should rest his injury into the season. The other area of concern is their secondary. It was putrid to close out last season and it remains to be seen how much it can improve. Is Antoine Winfield still a top player? Is third round rookie Josh Robison ready? Will free agents Zackary Bowman and Chris Carr prove valuable? They did alleviate some issues by drafting safety Harrison Smith in round 1 but still depth and talent are issues here. Lastly, is quarterback Christian Ponder the guy? Last season, at best, produced inconclusive results. He will need to step up and take control of this offense while Peterson is out or less than 100% healthy. The Vikings’ hopes rest on that coming to fruition.
27. St. Louis Rams (2-14)
I will preface this by saying that I love what the Rams have done this offseason. They started by adding experienced head coach Jeff Fisher. Fisher never took the Titans over the top during his extended time there, but there is not doubt he is a good coach who can build a team. They then made many solid acquisitions in free agency. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan was a perfect player for this team. After playing for Fisher for years in Tennessee, he will show the rest of the team how to do business and what is expected; he will be the tone setter. Center Scott Wells will be a calming veteran presence on an offensive line that struggled badly all last season. The big haul for the Rams was when they traded their second pick in the draft to the Redskins for a few of future first rounder’s and second in this years draft. They are set up very well to add high quality talent the next few years. That being said, I was underwhelmed when it came to their draft this year. They traded down again and at pick 14 they took DT Michael Brockers. Brockers will form with free agent Kendal Langford on the inside of what could be a premier d-line, but Brokers is young and green and will need to grow up fast. The rest of their picks were high risk/reward players, none greater than cornerback Janoris Jenkins (thug4life). The biggest issue facing the Rams is former No. 1 overall pick Sam Bradford’s development. Bradford struggled mightily after a solid rookie year and needs to recover from that. He has the tools to succeed, but he will need protection and his playmakers to step up. We shall see if he can count on that to happen.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11)
I have the Jaguars higher than some publications. My reasoning for this is mostly behind its defense. Led by Mel Tucker, who is back at d-coordinator, this unit looked like it was ready to join the elite. All the players are mostly returning and even got a boost in the draft when second round pass rusher Andre Branch fell to them. He looks like a keeper across from the emerging Jeremy Mincey at defensive end. If this defense can hold up its production the biggest concern in Jacksonville should firmly lie with the offense. Despite being grossly overpaid, Laurent Robinson should help a receiving core that was amongst the worst last year. The Jaguars will have to hope he brings some of that out-of-nowhere production over from Dallas last year. The big addition, however, is rookie Justin Blackmon (well on his way to thug4life). The No. 5 pick in the draft is a big physical receiver who should get open and produce big plays after the catch. He needs to catch up after being the longest unsigned rookie and especially needs to stay off the police blotter after getting a second DUI before even signing his contract. The real test will come if stud running back Maurice Jones-Drew holds true on his threats to hold out into the season without a new contract. Despite him being a premier player, the Jaguars should hold firm. Rashad Jennings has looked solid in preseason games and we saw how well the Titans were rewarded when they caved to Chris Johnson in a similar scenario last offseason. Dwarfing all of these concerns is the development of Blaine Gabbert at QB. Gabbert was downright awful last year as a rookie, prompting some to even say he was playing scared. However, perhaps Gabbert will improve with the aforementioned improved supporting cast. It also can’t help that he finally cut those girly golden locks he was sporting. If he looks better perhaps this team will surprise, and if he doesn’t well they’re doomed.
25. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
The Bucs quit on Raheem Morris last year, there is no denying that. New head coach Greg Schiano will have none of that nonsense in his program and has stressed the idea of being a team of “Buccaneer Men”. However, how many of those does he have on his roster? Are guys like LeGarrette Blount and Mike Williams going to suddenly change their ways and become the budding stars we thought they were? Frist round rookies, do it all running back, Doug Martin, and safety Mark Barron are certainly “Buccaneer Men” and they will need to show the rest of these players how to act. I believe in Josh Freeman, but he was just downright bad last year. He needs to focus and get back on track for this team to have any hope. Even when you look at their highly touted free agent additions you see Vincent Jackson, Carl Nicks, and Eric Wright (who was way over paid) all of whom are guys with checkered pasts. You have to hope they are really “Buccaneer Men” and not just guys chasing the big paychecks they received. As bad as their offense got last season it never sunk as low as the defense. Former high draft pick at defensive tackle, Gerald McCoy, needs to stay healthy. He can be dominant but he hasn’t been able to avoid injury his first two years in the league. It also remains to be seen if cornerback Aqib Talib (thug4life superstar) can stay out of trouble and contribute, but they will need him because outside of he and Mark Barron, despite being a reach, the rest of the secondary doesn’t look good. The Bucs will have to hope players buy in to Schiano’s program quickly and that a number of them get their acts together, on and off the field.
24. Seattle Seahawks (7-9)
I don’t know what to make of this team and I am not sure if there is a team I am more conflicted on. I think their defense has a chance to be one of the top 5 units in the league. They have a strong front seven and a young secondary that has a chance to only get better. The safety duo is especially impressive. As third year players last year Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor both went to the pro bowl. They compliment each other’s skill set well and should be building blocks for this team. Pass rusher Bruce Irvin was a disgustingly bad reach, no way around that. However, if he acts right and learns a thing or two from high energy pass rusher, Chris Clemens, I could see him finding success and high sack numbers in Pete Carroll’s scheme. On offense I have my reservations. Despite being a national media hit with his “beast mode” and skittles antics, Marshawn Lynch proved he was still thug4life when he was arrested once again this offseason with a DUI. He has been suspended for a weapons charge before so do not be surprised if he is hit with a lengthy suspension by the league. At quarterback Matt Flynn hopefully will stabilize the position. He looked real good in his relief efforts in Green Bay, but it remains to be seen if he is a starting caliber player. If not, maybe exciting and undersized rookie, Russell Wilson can step in. I want to believe in this team, really I do, but things like questions on offense and signing Terrell Owens makes me think they aren’t ready to be anything more than a joke.
23. Washington Redskins
Robert Griffin III. Need I say more? Redskin’s nation is abuzz with their new franchise player that the team traded the farm for. On top of that RG III has already received numerous endorsement deals from big name companies, including the tasty Subway. Putting RG III on the level of Michael Strahan, Michael Phelps, and Jared can only mean one thing; big things are expected out of this kid, and soon. Luckily for Washington, Robert Griffin seems to have all the tools in place to succeed with his new team. He is a tremendous fit in the Shanahan’s precious system with his lively arm, deep ball accuracy, and trademark running ability. The Redskins did a decent job surrounding Griffin with some weapons to work with. I thought they overpaid for receivers Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan, but they join a refocused Santana Moss and healthy Leonard Hankerson to round out a solid group of wide receivers. In addition to the receivers there is the emerging Fred Davis. However, he, and starting left tackle Trent Williams, need to pass on the grass and avoid another failed drug test by the league or risk a lengthy suspension. Speaking of the offensive line, it is not a strong unit. Injuries seem to constantly nag this unit and the only addition of significance was little known third rounder Josh LeRibeus. This unit must improve for Griffin to succeed. The defense continues to take steps in the right direction, especially with the pass rush, led by young rush linebackers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan. If Griffin and the offense can actually hold a lead for this team, something sexy Rexy and the timid John Beck never accomplished, then this pass rush tandem could be very potent. As you can see, everything lies on RG III’s shoulders. He needs to be a superstar to justify the significant investment they made in him. If he reaches his vast potential early then this team can soar higher in these rankings, and if not, well at least he can comfort himself with all the free five dollar footlongs he is no doubt receiving.
22. New York Jets (8-8)
Rex Ryan stopped making Super Bowl predictions just in time, because I don’t think he has a prayer this year. A prayer? Yes that reminds me; didn’t the Jets acquire a mega popular and controversial quarterback to be their “backup”? Yes, I am sorry to pile on but we do have to discuss Tim Tebow. The Jets insist Mark Sanchez is their guy and that Tebow is there as a backup/wildcat/spiritual healer/special teams player. But guess what folks; all that sounds like to me is a distraction. The problem with their plan is Sanchez, because he isn’t very good. At some point this season Sanchez is bound to have a stretch like he had to end last season where he looks like a high schooler playing amongst the pros. When that happens the international cult of Tebow will come out and demand their guy be inserted as a starter. Rex Ryan and his staff will not be able to stop it because there is no stopping it; Tebow mania is a force unlike any other the sports world has seen. Tebow will start games at quarterback this year for Jets. I guarantee it. Whether that is a good thing or not is the subject of debate. He won games last year for Denver sure, but man did he look ugly doing it. However, maybe he can rally this Jets team with his running ability and incredible leadership. Maybe that is the Jets best hope is Tebow crawls his way into the lineup. Wow, I am truly sorry to have made you endure more Tebow talk, because despite what the rest of the national media believes, there are other players on this team. On top of the Tebow distraction, this Jets team is another year older on defense and I am not sure if they are past their chemistry problems. I don’t see how the Jets are any better then the team we saw last season. Maybe Rex Ryan turns rookie Quinton Coples into a stud. Maybe Santonio Holmes (thug4life) finally grows up and falls in line. Maybe Bart Scott and others return to the top defense in the league form. That is a lot of maybes and I am just not buying that it all happens that way.
21. Tennessee Titans (9-7)
Maybe I have the Titans a tad low, but when I look at this team nothing really excites me. They look like they have the makings a .500 squad to the tee. They are just about average in all facets of their roster and I am not sure who, outside of maybe Chris Johnson, the stars are. Second year quarterback Jake Locker had been given every opportunity to overtake veteran Matt Hassleback for the starting job. Hassleback is a solid vet who knows the game, but he faded down the stretch and hasn’t proved himself reliable in recent years. It would be best for the team to move forward with their potential franchise quarterback, however thus far, Locker has yet to show he is the best option to lead the team in the present. He needs to grab the reigns and firmly stake claim to the job in the rest of the preseason. It is no secret Chris Johnson regressed last year. The question is, if he can regain his 2,000-yard rusher form or will he remain in mediocrity a year after signing a mega deal? The team needs CJ2K back because he is likely the focal point of the offense. The one other stud player this offense has is wideout Kenny Britt. However, Britt is coming back from a torn ACL injury and even more troubling continues to see his name come up in police reports; he was arrested for what seems like the hundredth time this offseason. Britt embodies thug4life and can clearly not be counted on. Nate Washington picked up the slack for Britt last year, and will be counted on to do so again if Britt is suspended, but he should have some help with first rounder Kendall Wright on board. If Wright, Britt and the ultra talented tight end Jared Cook all realize their potential with Locker at the helm, this attack could be a special one. Until all that falls into place the Titans seem destined for middle of the pack territory.
20. San Diego Chargers (8-8)
It seems odd to rank the Chargers this low, but I feel we could see this team take another step back. I believe Philip Rivers bounces back and shows he is still an elite quarterback. However, this is not the star-studded roster from the last decade that people seem to still believe it is. Vincent Jackson chased the big payday to Tampa Bay and in his place they have the under achieving Robert Meachem. Antonio Gates is finally healthy but can he stay that way? Rivers will need him to if they are going to regain a highflying passing attack. Speaking of health, Ryan Mathews has the durability of a porcelain doll. He sustained another injury this preseason and his status for the opener is in doubt. If anyone thinks Ronnie Brown is a capable replacement back for him than you’re crazy or stuck in 2007. The team has some intriguing talent on defense. I still think Corey Liguet is miscast as a 3-4 end but if he fits, he and rookie Kendall Reyes could form a nice tandem. The real bright spot of this defense could be the rush linebackers. The team added Baltimore free agent Jarrett Johnson and rookie first rounder Melvin Ingram to Shaun Phillips and Antwan Barnes. Johnson is just a two down run stuffer, but a great one; Barnes will replace him on third downs, a role he thrived in last season. Ingram should be the headliner; he fell to the Chargers at pick 18 and they hope he can be a force. Phillips had some health issues this past season but if he can return to form this unit could be deep and special. Bottom line is, I do not trust head coach Norv Turner to truly lead this team to the promise land. He needs to be replaced before I believe.
19. Cincinnati Bengals (9-7)
People look at the Bengals and see their winning record last year and their young roster and conclude they are team on the rise. That figure is a bit misleading. The Bengals were 9-0 against non-playoff teams and 0-7 against postseason opponents last year. The Bengals managed to look good against the bad teams and bad against the good. I really think their season could go either way this year. Cincinnati is loaded with young talent. Heading this young group is wide receiver A.J. Green, whom is primed to become one of the top 5 players at his position. Green is the total package, big, fast, strong, and can make plays on the ball at its highest point. However, I think Green is, and will always be, held back by his quarterback. Andy Dalton looked poised and in control last season. However, he faded down the stretch, as it seems teams learned how to take advantage of him. Dalton has the looks of a solid QB, but when was the last time we saw a solid QB guide his team to the super bowl? It has been awhile. I could see this team’s young talent taking a step back this season and the Bengals hovering around .500. Or maybe they all take a step forward and make me look bad. Like I said, could go either way.
18. Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
Poor Tony Romo. He seems to be destined to shoulder the blame of Dallas’ struggles forever. Romo had easily his best year last year and still the uneducated sports masses say he can’t get it done. Romo needs the rest of his team to catch up with him, because I will say this is much lower than I thought the Cowboys would be about a week ago. Miles Austin has to stay healthy, Dez Bryant needs to work hard and stay away from his mom, and a third receiver has to emerge with Laurent Robinson swimming in a tub of money in Jacksonville. Couple this with the fact that Jason Witten now may have done damage to his spleen; Romo could have a tough time carrying things this year. He will have to rely on running back DeMarco Murray to lighten his load. Murray is a tough runner, but his issue has been staying healthy. He will have to, because the Cowboys cannot seriously trot out the pitiful Felix Jones anymore. Another big reason I can’t get behind the Cowboys is the interior of the o-line. I think left tackle Tryon Smith is ready to join the elite, but the Cowboys managed to pour money into the guard positions and still come away worse. If you watched their preseason opener against the Raiders you would see the sad state of this group. I think Dallas’ defense improves with two new corners and a year of experience in Rob Ryan’s scheme. However, with some unreliable players and slew of issues on the offensive line, I see more cursing from their dirty pirate defensive coordinator and not playoffs for Dallas this year.
17. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
It comes down to quarterback in the desert folks. If there is ever an example that QB is the most important position in the NFL, it is this team. I believe fully that is Arizona had convinced Peyton Manning to come to Arizona than we could be looking at a super bowl team. The Cardinals have Larry Fitzgerald, who is still at the top of his game, and even added to the receiver stable with rookie Malcolm Floyd. The Cardinals also hold two talented, though banged-up, young running backs in Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams. There is also some talent with the complementary receivers and tight ends. The defense finally seemed to round into form last year with young players stepping up and veterans maintaining steady play. Calais Campbell and Darnell Docket are two complete terrors at 3-4 end while Sam Acho and O’Brien Schoefield look to elevate the pass rush. All this good won’t matter if the QB position is faulty. Coach Ken Whisenhunt needs to swallow the poison and insert John Skelton as the regular season starter over Kevin Kolb already. The team, and Fitzgerald especially, seem energized with him under center. He may not be the long-term answer but he is a big guy with a rocket right arm. Frankly, he can’t be worse than Kolb. Kolb is not accurate enough for a guy with an average skill set. He does not seem to handle pressure well either, and that will not do behind a makeshift offensive line. With Skelton playing the full year I think Arizona could make some noise in the NFC West, but I don’t know if I can call them contenders without a real QB solution.
16. Carolina Panthers (6-10)
Hope abounds in the Carolinas and it’s all thanks to Cam Newton. The No. 1 picked shocked everyone last year when he burst on to the scene with some stunning performances to start the year and subsequently revived the dormant superstar receiver, Steve Smith. Cam showed he was a nightmare for defenses to handle with his outstanding running ability and surprising understanding for the pro game. However, as the season went on his ridiculous numbers fell a bit, but the team started to win as he made fewer mistakes and did not have to carry the squad. Newton is easily the biggest star this team has ever had and his presence has and will always raise expectations. It is hard not to get excited about this team. Joining Newton and Smith on offense are now two all-around backs in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, new versatile fullback/tailback Mike Tolbert, and solid tight end Greg Olson. The o-line is also a solid group of young players and veterans. Last years issue were with the defense, no doubt annoying head coach and defensive guy, Ron Rivera. Realistically though, it cannot get any worse than 2011. Jon Beason is returning from a lost season due to injury and the hope is he will team with first rounder Luke Keuchly to form a stud group of linebackers. The Panthers need young talent to emerge at other positions for this team to truly take the next step. Optimism abounds in Charlotte, and rightfully so, but it could be another year before this team can make noise in the post season.
15. Buffalo Bills (6-10)
Will this finally be the year Buffalo sneaks into the playoffs? It very well could be. Buffalo snagged the prize free agent in the young and skilled defensive end Mario Williams and then paired him with Mark Anderson hoping to fix their pass rush issues. These two will team with stud defensive tackles Kyle Williams and Marcel Dareus to put pressure on opposing QBs and stuff the run. With this new look d-line the Bills should be able to field a defense that is opportunistic and capable. On offense the team needs a healthy return by star running back Fred Jackson. Before his season was cut short by injury he was the centerpiece of this offense and an MVP candidate. He was effectively replaced by former top 10-draft pick C.J. Spiller. The Bills cannot afford to reduce Jackson’s touches too much but Spiller looks to be a dynamic weapon as well. This should be a 1-2 punch to be reckoned with. My issue with this team lies behind center with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick played extremely well to start off last year but came crashing back to earth soon after the Bills rewarded him with a big contract extension. Sources say he was not fully healthy to finish the year out and that could have affected his performance. One way or another Buffalo needs Fitzpatrick playing at a high level because big things are expected of the Bills for the first time in years.
14. Denver Broncos (8-8)
I know most are jumping on the Bronco bandwagon after the acquisition of Peyton Manning, but I am going to hold off on the assessment that they are a playoff lock. Manning is a first ballot hall of famer without question, but will he automatically elevate this team to title contender status? Perhaps. However, there are a few things to consider. When last we saw Manning it was 2010 and he was coming off a season where he threw 17 interceptions and regressed just a tad off of his otherworldly career standards. At age 36, and after four neck procedures, it is entirely possible Manning will not be at the same level of skill we are accustomed to seeing. Also, this player spent the better part of two decades with the same team and in the same system. The offensive system Manning runs is based off precision, timing and requires tons of practice reps. It is difficult to tell whether this offense has spent enough time with Manning to “get on his level”. Not only this, but the system this team ran with Tim Tebow last year couldn’t be more different than the one Manning will require. This entire segment has been about Manning and that is because it is all about Manning. If he is at the same level we know him at and he is healthy, this team will be a handful to deal with. If he is not either of those two things, well then we are looking at Caleb Hanie and a losing record.
13. Kansas City Chiefs (7-9)
I really like the Chiefs this season. I think they will win their division over the Manning led Broncos. In the first few weeks of the season the Chiefs may have lost some of their best players on offense, running back Jamal Charles, and defense, safety Eric Berry. They also lost a solid young tight end in Tony Moeaki as well. In addition to these guys returning healthy, Kansas City made some great additions to their roster. Tackle Eric Winston is easily a top 5 right tackle in this league and they solidified a really weak spot for them when they scooped him up when the Texans released him. He should be able to blast open big holes for Charles and another good addition in running back Peyton Hillis. Hillis was a big baby last season when he whined about a contract extension and rumors surfaced he wanted to get into the CIA (perhaps he will get over that pipe dream now that he isn’t on the Browns). Hillis should be a more than capable second runner and compliment the mending Charles well. The hope is Romeo Crennel can lead a team better in his second chance as a head guy. The defense is filled with high talented players and the thought is Crennel can make them a stud unit. The main question here is Matt Cassel. Since coming over from New England, Cassel has been pretty up and down; he has also been a medical concern as well. I think Cassel is a guy that needs everything to go right and a strong supporting cast to succeed. This team is stacked around him and I think he can be just good enough to get to the playoffs and a division title, but Cassel has shown he cannot be counted on after that.
12. Atlanta Falcons (10-6)
There are things to like about the Falcons. I think they could have two stud receivers on their hands and I believe Julio Jones is going to be the top guy over Roddy White starting this year. Matt Ryan played well as the year went on and I think they really could be a force with those three guys attacking a team’s secondary. My main issue that keeps me from calling this team a top 10 squad is that they seem to have quickly gone from a young and talented team to one that is getting old fast. I do not see how their pass rush is going to improve without any major additions. John Abraham had 9.5 sacks but got many of those against poor teams. They will need guys like Jon Babineaux and Ray Edwards to be really healthy and play well above what they showed last season. At other spots on defense I really like Sean Weatherspoon, but the loss of Curtis Lofton at MLB is a big one. This new coaching staff determined he was a two down linebacker, but I think he is still a good player and will be missed. Asante Samuel, Dunta Robinson and Brent Grimes, on paper, form a nice group of corners. At running back I think Michael Turner is just about done. He abuses bad defenses and scores touchdowns, but he is aging and slow due to his high number of carries. The Falcons have been touting offensive changes and the emergence of Jaquizz Rodgers. If this coaching staff can change their conservative ways and let Ryan loose and keep Turner on a pitch count, this team could do damage.
11. New Orleans Saints (13-3)
Wow, what an offseason for the Saints. They got gutted by the bounty scandal and went through a nasty public spat with Drew Brees over his contract. However, things are not all a loss. Brees is under contract and is deservedly the highest paid player in the league. He has looked great in camp and in the preseason. Brees will be his usual awesome self and there is no question there. Rumors have begun to surface that maybe the entire contract dispute was staged so that Drew Brees could communicate with suspended head coach Sean Payton. Wouldn’t surprise me given the Saints have shown they are, at best, a shady bunch. I think the loss of Payton does hurt the team slightly and it is why I have them outside the top 10. Truthfully I do not think the player suspensions hurt this team that much. Vilma is a declining player who is a liability now. Incredibly, adding David Hawthorne and Curtis Lofton has actually upgraded the linebackers. Will Smith is the best pass rusher on this team but perhaps they will be able to overcome this loss with new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s schemes. He has shown he is a big time coach on the defensive side and he is surely a better option than crook Gregg Williams. Brees and his deep crew of offensive weapons will not be missing a beat, and if this defense plays better under Spagnuolo, then maybe this team truly overcomes its offseason storm.
10. Baltimore Ravens
Poor Baltimore. They were just oh so close last year, but losers like Billy Cundiff and Lee Evans really blew it for guys like Ed Reed and Ray Lewis to “snag another” ring. I worry now that their chances this year may have been compromised. My reasoning for this is two-fold. First and foremost is the Terrell Suggs injury. Suggs is a great player and he really sets the tone on that defense now. He is obviously a great pass rusher, and they do not have anyone close to that level on the roster, but he is a complete player against the run and pass. Rookie steal Courtney Upshaw should help but even if he gets half the number of sacks and can play the run like Suggs, is that enough? Also, the offensive line is a concern. Bryant McKinnie looks like he spent the offseason hanging out with Albert Haynesworth at the buffet line once again and he clearly can’t be counted on. Michael Oher has not shown that he is a franchise level tackle despite his movies’ success. To pile on they lost solid guard Ben Grubbs and center Matt Birk is another year older. I believe in Joe Flacco, but can he succeed behind this line? Ray Rice should be as awesome as always but can he overcome his surroundings? This team will need old guys to hang on and young guys to step up on both sides of the ball for this team to be the same Ravens we know.
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)
Pittsburgh is in the mix every year. It just is always that way. Ben Roethlisberger is a star QB and he will make his whole team better. Truthfully he could even take a step further this year because the Steelers finally put big time resources into its offensive line. In rounds one and two they netted a top guard and tackle prospect in David DeCastro and Mike Adams. If Adams keeps his head on straight he and second year man Marcus Gilbert will make a good young tandem. With Ben having the best line in front of him he’s had in years he should excel throwing to Antonio Brown, Emmanuel Sanders, and Mike Wallace, provided he shows up. The running back spot is a concern for them. Mendenhall won’t be around to start the season and Isaac Redman will have to come up big for them. On defense, they shredded some dead weight over there by cutting some old and declining players. If everyone stays healthy over there then this team will stay to their elite defensive standards. The Steelers will get 10 plus wins and will compete for the post season, just like always.
8. Detroit Lions (10-6)
Matt Stafford to Megatron. Rejoice Lions’ fans because you will be able to enjoy this lethal combo for years to come. These two young players are both unbelievable talents and they will be around for a long time to tear up opponents. They are not alone in the passing game as well. Young receivers like Ryan Broyles and Titus Young should be able to support Calvin Johnson and Nate Burleson should be a calming veteran presence. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew is a good short to intermediate target and provides a nice safety net for Stafford. On the o-line the Lions made a nice addition with rookie Riley Reiff. He should start somewhere on the line and that will help the offense maintain a high level of play. The question on that side of the ball is running back. They imagined a nice young 1-2 punch with Jahvid Best and Mikel Leshoure, but the two are having trouble remaining healthy (and Leshoure loves getting high and driving to Wendy’s). They will need to count as Kevin Smith, who also has a fragile reputation. On defense the line gets big time hype, and some of it deserved, but it could take another step. Ndamukoung Suh took a step back last year and they need him to recapture the nightmare form he showed his rookie year. Fellow DT Nick Fairley could step up but he is also trending quickly towards thug4life status with his “two arrests in one-month” ways. The secondary is also a big question mark. The only corner who is proven to be a decent player is Chris Houston and he will need another young player to step up across from him. Ultimately, this team is on the rise to elite status, but for now they are not finished building and will be in a ton of shootouts.
7. Chicago Bears (8-8)
Well thank goodness Mike Martz is gone. That alone, I believe, helps out this team. Martz was a poor fit as coordinator for this team and he showed his coaching philosophies are outdated. Matt Forte and Jay Cutler are back healthy after missing some weeks last season to end the year. Forte should remain a solid do it all runner who can catch the ball well out of the backfield. The key now is that Cutler will have some weapons. I firmly believe in Cutler’s status as a stud player and now that he is reunited with his former receiver Brandon Marshall, I think he will show the world. Marshall changes everything for the Bears and he should elevate Cutler back to the days in Denver when they were producing top of the league type numbers. The only concern on offense is on the line. Martz, and his nonsensical 10 step drops, being gone should help this group, but there is a lack of talent on this unit. New coordinator Mike Tice is a line guru and the hope is he can continue to coach this young group up. Defensively the Bears are older, sure, but they are still a top unit. If these old veterans don’t endure a massive drop off then we can certainly see this team in the post season. The Bears do the little things well and have a great special teams unit. Those things could launch them back to the big time.
6. Houston Texans (10-6)
What a change the Texans made last year. They finally jumped into the post season after years of potential. The other less talked about change is that this team’s strength is now its defense. Mario Williams is gone, but he missed most of last season with injury anyhow and the Texans still thrived under Wade Phillips. Brian Cushing, J.J. Watt, Brooks Reed, and especially Connor Barwin are a crew of white boys on the defense who just flat out ball. They are ferocious and nasty defenders who give high effort on every snap. With these four in place this front seven should remain a top 3 group. Jonathan Joseph leads an improved secondary and this team can surely count on this side of the ball. Despite being strong for years the offense has some questions. The top three players on this unit (Matt Schaub, Arian Foster, and Andre Johnson) all missed time last year. They will need this trio to stay healthy all year if it wants to advance even further into the playoffs. It also let an offensive line that was a top unit, break apart this year and that has to be a concern. Still, I think we see this team run away with their division and do some things in the playoffs.
5. San Francisco 49ers (13-3)
Jim Harbaugh sure helped out this squad. I can still remember watching the kickoff cover guys dancing before the ball was kicked during their playoff game against the Saints. Moments like that, and Vernon Davis’ emotion in that contest, let you see the change Harbaugh brought to the team and that they truly want to follow him. After former coach Mike Singletary pantsing himself during halftimes, I don’t blame them. This defense is just incredible. They are a physical and aggressive unit with studs at every level. Patrick Willis and Navarro Bowman form an inside linebacker tandem that really is unlike any we have seen before. Aldon Smith needs to avoid knives, booze, and house parties and take the next step to becoming an every down linebacker. Justin Smith is an animal and really a player that everyone wants on their team. On offense they have added some firepower at receiver and in the backfield. Mario Manningham should be a nice complimentary piece and perhaps Randy Moss can show he has something in the tank. The hope is that this all makes Alex Smith better in his second year under this regime. However, Smith is streaky and really the Niners seemed lukewarm, at best, in regards to their commitment to him this offseason. Perhaps we see former second rounder Colin Kaepernick sooner than later.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (8-8)
Last year I thought I was the only one not buying the dream team business. This year, count me among those who are drinking the Kool-Aid. I think a year together, and a full offseason, can do this team a ton of good. It looks like this team is committed to playing the type of defense it needs to, lock-down man coverage with and aggressive d-line. Nnamdi Asomugha should be able to thrive now that he will be used correctly and quite frankly this d-line looks like it will give offenses fits all year. They have about eight guys that they can rotate in and out of the game and all can get after QBs. Former Texan DeMeco Ryans and rookie Mychal Kendricks look like they can stabilize the weakest part of the unit last year. On offense it all revolves around Mike Vick. LeSean McCoy is a total stud; they have plenty of receiving options, and a stout line. The concern has to be with Vick. He has certainly moved on from his days as the former king of thug4life, but he is extremely injury prone, can’t grasp the mental part of the game, and is unreliable. With his running style and slight frame he is almost a guarantee to miss about three weeks of games. He also took a huge step back last year from his video game level of 2010. He made poor decisions and committed way too many turnovers. I truly believe if the Eagles do not reach their lofty goals than it will all fall on Vick’s shoulders. If so, they need to look for a new QB and leader.
3. Green Bay Packers (15-1)
This is where ranking the teams is very challenging as these next teams are pretty interchangable. Green Bay is not going to drop far from their high standards they set last year. Aaron Rodgers and the passing game will probably only get better with Greg Jennings fully healthy, Jermichael Finely improving, and Randall Cobb progressing. The line lost old guardsmen Chad Clifton, but it should continue to progress with younger players. The running back situation is hazy with James Starks not looking like a bell cow back and now Cedric Benson on board (the definition of bleh). The running game needs to at least be half of what the passing game is for there to be some semblance of balance. Then again, Rodgers and the boys are so good that maybe they will be just fine without them. On defense we all know this team regressed last season. However, there were some veteran and rookie additions to help this team’s pass defense. Rookies Jerel Worthy and Nick Perry should be just enough to help out Clay Matthews in the pass rush department. The key will be for the secondary to actually stop someone. They are oppurtunistic and can get turnovers but this team needs to slow down other QBs, so that Aaron Rodgers can just do his thing agaisnt the opposing team.
2. New England Patriots (13-3)
It seems likely the Patriots will be right back in the thick of things this season. In fact they could be even better than they were before. Last season, this offense was just about unstoppable with tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez making life miserable down the middle of the field with Wes Welker working the slot. The one thing they lacked was a downfield threat who could work the sidelines. Well, now they have added Brandon Llyod who comes to New England to once again work under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who returns to the Patriots after failing elsewhere. Llyod has always suceeded in McDaniels’ scheme and now with Tom Brady heeving him passes, it seems he will continure to thrive. With Llyod likely being the missing piece this offense needed, scoring points through the air will not be a problem in New England. In the ground game it will be up to young guys like Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, and olympian Jeff Demps to carry the load. The questions for this team are once again on defense. Did the Patriots really do enough to improve this unit in the draft? That remains to be seen. Young athletic guys like Chandler Jones and Donta Hightower should help the matter, but it will also be up to guys like Devin McCourty to recapture their past form. If all of New England’s additions can pan out and can play their roles, this team could very well be looking at another season like 2007.
1. New York Giants (9-7)
You have to hand it to the champs. For the second time in four years they were the surprise team to hoist the Lombardi trophy and best future Hall of Famers, Brady and Belichick. The key for them this year will be living up to the potential they showed in the playoffs. It sounds like their focus is right, which is always at least half the battle with super bowl winners. They are saying they enter this year with the mindset of they were a 9-7 ball club that didn’t play to its potential. Eli Manning is the leader of this team and its best player. He emerged as a truly elite player at his position with a second ring and carried the team throughout the regular season. He needs to have a repeat performance and should be able to accomplish that feat. Star receivers Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz return and they have a group of young guys fighting to replace the departed Mario Mannigham. They added Virginia Tech rookie running back David Wilson to take the load off the fragile Ahmad Bradshaw. The offensive line is a weak spot and they will need players to perform better than last year because no significant additions were made. They should be strong defensively with an all-star cast on the d-line headed up by Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck. They have a strong rotation that can take the pressure off a secondary that has many talented players. The Giants certainly have the ability to be a better team than last year as long as they stay focused and improve on some weak spots.
Some may say I am being too hard on a Browns team that took what may have taken the best player in the draft in running back Trent Richardson. Despite this, I still think the Browns will contend for being the worst team in the league. Their problems lie mainly with the offensive skill positions. Outside of Richardson (who is already having knee issues), who are the playmakers? Greg Little could take a step forward but I doubt his ability to be a Number 1 caliber wideout. Josh Gordon is extremely physically gifted, but can he contribute right away after being taken with a very aggressive second round pick in the supplemental draft? New quarterback Brandon Weeden is a senior citizen aged rookie, at 28 years old, and it remains to be seen whether his advanced age will help him transition to the pro game quickly. Despite the makings of a solid offensive line and defense, a lot will have to swing just right for the Browns to approach a .500 record this season.
31. Miami Dolphins (6-10)
Optimism always abounds for teams when new regimes take over and especially when a new quarterback comes to town. However, that does not mean success is in the immediate future for new head coach Joe Philbin and his rookie signal caller, Ryan Tannehill. The Dolphins have major issues on both sides of the ball. The plan was to develop Tannehill, who had minimal starts at QB after starting his college career at wide receiver, slowly. However, with injuries to David Garrard (the favorite to win the starting job) and Matt Moore looking like he is a poor system fit, that plan seems to be compromised. Tannehill now looks like he may be forced to start the regular season opener, and it is unclear if he is ready. Couple that with the fact that his receiving core lacks talent, even before Chad Johnson was released, it is doubtful Tannehill will find early success in his first year. In addition to the offense, the Dolphins are switching from a base 3-4 defense to a 4-3. The defense was pretty good for the team last year so it would seem this switch is ill advised. All in all, things could be bright for the future of the Dolphins, but not this year.
30. Indianapolis Colts (2-14)
The Colts are probably the luckiest team in the league. Coming off a disastrous season where they lost future hall of famer Peyton Manning to a number of neck surgeries, their reward for stinking up the joint is Andrew Luck, whom many consider to be the best quarterback prospect to come out of college since Mr. Manning himself. He will make this team better than the motley crew of Curtis Painter and Dan Orlovsky. However, the rest of the team may not be on Luck’s level yet. The running backs do not seem to have a top guy ready to emerge and the offensive line lost some guys and needs players to step up. Wide receiver Reggie Wayne surprisingly returned to catch passes from Luck but they will need someone else from the group of Austin Collie, Donnie Avery and speedster rookie T.Y. Hilton to step up. The tight end group looks to be a strength after the drafting of Luck’s teammate Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen. Defensively, new head coach Chuck Pagano is trying to install an aggressive 3-4 scheme like the one he coached last year for Baltimore. However, that could not be any more different than the Tampa-2 scheme the Colts have run for over a decade. The transition will take time especially with a huge dearth of frontline talent. I have no doubt this team will find success with Andrew Luck, but it will take time.
29. Oakland Raiders (8-8)
The Raiders are once again in transition, but I think they may have finally found the right guys for the job. General Manager Reggie McKenzie and head coach Dennis Allen couldn’t have been thrown into a more difficult situation taking over after the passing of longtime owner Al Davis. The Raiders had virtually no cap room to work with and had to rid themselves of numerous bad contracts. Subsequently their depth has really suffered. There are many things to like about Oakland’s team. Carson Palmer will now have much more time with the team to get comfortable after being hurled into action midseason in 2011. He also has some good young receivers to work with and if Darren McFadden could stay healthy, not one of his strong suits; he could easily be the top running back this season. The offensive line also has some talented young players with LT Jared Veldheer and C Stefen Wisniewski. On defense Richard Seymour is still getting it done and the Raiders have other good players on the D-Line. The rest of the defense has holes. The cornerback position has to be an area of concern since it is filled with declining veterans and unproven young players. As I mentioned, the issue with the Raiders is depth. Injuries are bound to happen to every team, and when they happen in Oakland, it will mean trouble.
28. Minnesota Vikings (3-13)
I liked what Minnesota did in the offseason. They had a good draft haul with LT Matt Kalil being the headliner. He should solidify his spot on the offensive line and be a top blind side protector on a developing line. I also think when Jerome Simpson (thug4life) returns from his three game suspension, for having a stupid amount of marijuana in his home, he could take some pressure off of Percy Harvin. Harvin is a head case (migraine pun unintended) no doubt about it, but when he is focused and healthy he can be one of the top explosive playmakers in the league. There are three big concerns with the Vikings. First and foremost is Adrian Peterson’s health. Peterson is a once-a-decade talent, but after tearing the ACL and MCL in his knee last year his status for this season’s opener would seem in jeopardy. The big issue is that because he is such a huge part of their offensive attack and he is such an incredible player, it is likely the player and team will rush his comeback. This is a horrific idea and Peterson should rest his injury into the season. The other area of concern is their secondary. It was putrid to close out last season and it remains to be seen how much it can improve. Is Antoine Winfield still a top player? Is third round rookie Josh Robison ready? Will free agents Zackary Bowman and Chris Carr prove valuable? They did alleviate some issues by drafting safety Harrison Smith in round 1 but still depth and talent are issues here. Lastly, is quarterback Christian Ponder the guy? Last season, at best, produced inconclusive results. He will need to step up and take control of this offense while Peterson is out or less than 100% healthy. The Vikings’ hopes rest on that coming to fruition.
27. St. Louis Rams (2-14)
I will preface this by saying that I love what the Rams have done this offseason. They started by adding experienced head coach Jeff Fisher. Fisher never took the Titans over the top during his extended time there, but there is not doubt he is a good coach who can build a team. They then made many solid acquisitions in free agency. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan was a perfect player for this team. After playing for Fisher for years in Tennessee, he will show the rest of the team how to do business and what is expected; he will be the tone setter. Center Scott Wells will be a calming veteran presence on an offensive line that struggled badly all last season. The big haul for the Rams was when they traded their second pick in the draft to the Redskins for a few of future first rounder’s and second in this years draft. They are set up very well to add high quality talent the next few years. That being said, I was underwhelmed when it came to their draft this year. They traded down again and at pick 14 they took DT Michael Brockers. Brockers will form with free agent Kendal Langford on the inside of what could be a premier d-line, but Brokers is young and green and will need to grow up fast. The rest of their picks were high risk/reward players, none greater than cornerback Janoris Jenkins (thug4life). The biggest issue facing the Rams is former No. 1 overall pick Sam Bradford’s development. Bradford struggled mightily after a solid rookie year and needs to recover from that. He has the tools to succeed, but he will need protection and his playmakers to step up. We shall see if he can count on that to happen.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11)
I have the Jaguars higher than some publications. My reasoning for this is mostly behind its defense. Led by Mel Tucker, who is back at d-coordinator, this unit looked like it was ready to join the elite. All the players are mostly returning and even got a boost in the draft when second round pass rusher Andre Branch fell to them. He looks like a keeper across from the emerging Jeremy Mincey at defensive end. If this defense can hold up its production the biggest concern in Jacksonville should firmly lie with the offense. Despite being grossly overpaid, Laurent Robinson should help a receiving core that was amongst the worst last year. The Jaguars will have to hope he brings some of that out-of-nowhere production over from Dallas last year. The big addition, however, is rookie Justin Blackmon (well on his way to thug4life). The No. 5 pick in the draft is a big physical receiver who should get open and produce big plays after the catch. He needs to catch up after being the longest unsigned rookie and especially needs to stay off the police blotter after getting a second DUI before even signing his contract. The real test will come if stud running back Maurice Jones-Drew holds true on his threats to hold out into the season without a new contract. Despite him being a premier player, the Jaguars should hold firm. Rashad Jennings has looked solid in preseason games and we saw how well the Titans were rewarded when they caved to Chris Johnson in a similar scenario last offseason. Dwarfing all of these concerns is the development of Blaine Gabbert at QB. Gabbert was downright awful last year as a rookie, prompting some to even say he was playing scared. However, perhaps Gabbert will improve with the aforementioned improved supporting cast. It also can’t help that he finally cut those girly golden locks he was sporting. If he looks better perhaps this team will surprise, and if he doesn’t well they’re doomed.
25. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-12)
The Bucs quit on Raheem Morris last year, there is no denying that. New head coach Greg Schiano will have none of that nonsense in his program and has stressed the idea of being a team of “Buccaneer Men”. However, how many of those does he have on his roster? Are guys like LeGarrette Blount and Mike Williams going to suddenly change their ways and become the budding stars we thought they were? Frist round rookies, do it all running back, Doug Martin, and safety Mark Barron are certainly “Buccaneer Men” and they will need to show the rest of these players how to act. I believe in Josh Freeman, but he was just downright bad last year. He needs to focus and get back on track for this team to have any hope. Even when you look at their highly touted free agent additions you see Vincent Jackson, Carl Nicks, and Eric Wright (who was way over paid) all of whom are guys with checkered pasts. You have to hope they are really “Buccaneer Men” and not just guys chasing the big paychecks they received. As bad as their offense got last season it never sunk as low as the defense. Former high draft pick at defensive tackle, Gerald McCoy, needs to stay healthy. He can be dominant but he hasn’t been able to avoid injury his first two years in the league. It also remains to be seen if cornerback Aqib Talib (thug4life superstar) can stay out of trouble and contribute, but they will need him because outside of he and Mark Barron, despite being a reach, the rest of the secondary doesn’t look good. The Bucs will have to hope players buy in to Schiano’s program quickly and that a number of them get their acts together, on and off the field.
24. Seattle Seahawks (7-9)
I don’t know what to make of this team and I am not sure if there is a team I am more conflicted on. I think their defense has a chance to be one of the top 5 units in the league. They have a strong front seven and a young secondary that has a chance to only get better. The safety duo is especially impressive. As third year players last year Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor both went to the pro bowl. They compliment each other’s skill set well and should be building blocks for this team. Pass rusher Bruce Irvin was a disgustingly bad reach, no way around that. However, if he acts right and learns a thing or two from high energy pass rusher, Chris Clemens, I could see him finding success and high sack numbers in Pete Carroll’s scheme. On offense I have my reservations. Despite being a national media hit with his “beast mode” and skittles antics, Marshawn Lynch proved he was still thug4life when he was arrested once again this offseason with a DUI. He has been suspended for a weapons charge before so do not be surprised if he is hit with a lengthy suspension by the league. At quarterback Matt Flynn hopefully will stabilize the position. He looked real good in his relief efforts in Green Bay, but it remains to be seen if he is a starting caliber player. If not, maybe exciting and undersized rookie, Russell Wilson can step in. I want to believe in this team, really I do, but things like questions on offense and signing Terrell Owens makes me think they aren’t ready to be anything more than a joke.
23. Washington Redskins
Robert Griffin III. Need I say more? Redskin’s nation is abuzz with their new franchise player that the team traded the farm for. On top of that RG III has already received numerous endorsement deals from big name companies, including the tasty Subway. Putting RG III on the level of Michael Strahan, Michael Phelps, and Jared can only mean one thing; big things are expected out of this kid, and soon. Luckily for Washington, Robert Griffin seems to have all the tools in place to succeed with his new team. He is a tremendous fit in the Shanahan’s precious system with his lively arm, deep ball accuracy, and trademark running ability. The Redskins did a decent job surrounding Griffin with some weapons to work with. I thought they overpaid for receivers Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan, but they join a refocused Santana Moss and healthy Leonard Hankerson to round out a solid group of wide receivers. In addition to the receivers there is the emerging Fred Davis. However, he, and starting left tackle Trent Williams, need to pass on the grass and avoid another failed drug test by the league or risk a lengthy suspension. Speaking of the offensive line, it is not a strong unit. Injuries seem to constantly nag this unit and the only addition of significance was little known third rounder Josh LeRibeus. This unit must improve for Griffin to succeed. The defense continues to take steps in the right direction, especially with the pass rush, led by young rush linebackers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan. If Griffin and the offense can actually hold a lead for this team, something sexy Rexy and the timid John Beck never accomplished, then this pass rush tandem could be very potent. As you can see, everything lies on RG III’s shoulders. He needs to be a superstar to justify the significant investment they made in him. If he reaches his vast potential early then this team can soar higher in these rankings, and if not, well at least he can comfort himself with all the free five dollar footlongs he is no doubt receiving.
22. New York Jets (8-8)
Rex Ryan stopped making Super Bowl predictions just in time, because I don’t think he has a prayer this year. A prayer? Yes that reminds me; didn’t the Jets acquire a mega popular and controversial quarterback to be their “backup”? Yes, I am sorry to pile on but we do have to discuss Tim Tebow. The Jets insist Mark Sanchez is their guy and that Tebow is there as a backup/wildcat/spiritual healer/special teams player. But guess what folks; all that sounds like to me is a distraction. The problem with their plan is Sanchez, because he isn’t very good. At some point this season Sanchez is bound to have a stretch like he had to end last season where he looks like a high schooler playing amongst the pros. When that happens the international cult of Tebow will come out and demand their guy be inserted as a starter. Rex Ryan and his staff will not be able to stop it because there is no stopping it; Tebow mania is a force unlike any other the sports world has seen. Tebow will start games at quarterback this year for Jets. I guarantee it. Whether that is a good thing or not is the subject of debate. He won games last year for Denver sure, but man did he look ugly doing it. However, maybe he can rally this Jets team with his running ability and incredible leadership. Maybe that is the Jets best hope is Tebow crawls his way into the lineup. Wow, I am truly sorry to have made you endure more Tebow talk, because despite what the rest of the national media believes, there are other players on this team. On top of the Tebow distraction, this Jets team is another year older on defense and I am not sure if they are past their chemistry problems. I don’t see how the Jets are any better then the team we saw last season. Maybe Rex Ryan turns rookie Quinton Coples into a stud. Maybe Santonio Holmes (thug4life) finally grows up and falls in line. Maybe Bart Scott and others return to the top defense in the league form. That is a lot of maybes and I am just not buying that it all happens that way.
21. Tennessee Titans (9-7)
Maybe I have the Titans a tad low, but when I look at this team nothing really excites me. They look like they have the makings a .500 squad to the tee. They are just about average in all facets of their roster and I am not sure who, outside of maybe Chris Johnson, the stars are. Second year quarterback Jake Locker had been given every opportunity to overtake veteran Matt Hassleback for the starting job. Hassleback is a solid vet who knows the game, but he faded down the stretch and hasn’t proved himself reliable in recent years. It would be best for the team to move forward with their potential franchise quarterback, however thus far, Locker has yet to show he is the best option to lead the team in the present. He needs to grab the reigns and firmly stake claim to the job in the rest of the preseason. It is no secret Chris Johnson regressed last year. The question is, if he can regain his 2,000-yard rusher form or will he remain in mediocrity a year after signing a mega deal? The team needs CJ2K back because he is likely the focal point of the offense. The one other stud player this offense has is wideout Kenny Britt. However, Britt is coming back from a torn ACL injury and even more troubling continues to see his name come up in police reports; he was arrested for what seems like the hundredth time this offseason. Britt embodies thug4life and can clearly not be counted on. Nate Washington picked up the slack for Britt last year, and will be counted on to do so again if Britt is suspended, but he should have some help with first rounder Kendall Wright on board. If Wright, Britt and the ultra talented tight end Jared Cook all realize their potential with Locker at the helm, this attack could be a special one. Until all that falls into place the Titans seem destined for middle of the pack territory.
20. San Diego Chargers (8-8)
It seems odd to rank the Chargers this low, but I feel we could see this team take another step back. I believe Philip Rivers bounces back and shows he is still an elite quarterback. However, this is not the star-studded roster from the last decade that people seem to still believe it is. Vincent Jackson chased the big payday to Tampa Bay and in his place they have the under achieving Robert Meachem. Antonio Gates is finally healthy but can he stay that way? Rivers will need him to if they are going to regain a highflying passing attack. Speaking of health, Ryan Mathews has the durability of a porcelain doll. He sustained another injury this preseason and his status for the opener is in doubt. If anyone thinks Ronnie Brown is a capable replacement back for him than you’re crazy or stuck in 2007. The team has some intriguing talent on defense. I still think Corey Liguet is miscast as a 3-4 end but if he fits, he and rookie Kendall Reyes could form a nice tandem. The real bright spot of this defense could be the rush linebackers. The team added Baltimore free agent Jarrett Johnson and rookie first rounder Melvin Ingram to Shaun Phillips and Antwan Barnes. Johnson is just a two down run stuffer, but a great one; Barnes will replace him on third downs, a role he thrived in last season. Ingram should be the headliner; he fell to the Chargers at pick 18 and they hope he can be a force. Phillips had some health issues this past season but if he can return to form this unit could be deep and special. Bottom line is, I do not trust head coach Norv Turner to truly lead this team to the promise land. He needs to be replaced before I believe.
19. Cincinnati Bengals (9-7)
People look at the Bengals and see their winning record last year and their young roster and conclude they are team on the rise. That figure is a bit misleading. The Bengals were 9-0 against non-playoff teams and 0-7 against postseason opponents last year. The Bengals managed to look good against the bad teams and bad against the good. I really think their season could go either way this year. Cincinnati is loaded with young talent. Heading this young group is wide receiver A.J. Green, whom is primed to become one of the top 5 players at his position. Green is the total package, big, fast, strong, and can make plays on the ball at its highest point. However, I think Green is, and will always be, held back by his quarterback. Andy Dalton looked poised and in control last season. However, he faded down the stretch, as it seems teams learned how to take advantage of him. Dalton has the looks of a solid QB, but when was the last time we saw a solid QB guide his team to the super bowl? It has been awhile. I could see this team’s young talent taking a step back this season and the Bengals hovering around .500. Or maybe they all take a step forward and make me look bad. Like I said, could go either way.
18. Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
Poor Tony Romo. He seems to be destined to shoulder the blame of Dallas’ struggles forever. Romo had easily his best year last year and still the uneducated sports masses say he can’t get it done. Romo needs the rest of his team to catch up with him, because I will say this is much lower than I thought the Cowboys would be about a week ago. Miles Austin has to stay healthy, Dez Bryant needs to work hard and stay away from his mom, and a third receiver has to emerge with Laurent Robinson swimming in a tub of money in Jacksonville. Couple this with the fact that Jason Witten now may have done damage to his spleen; Romo could have a tough time carrying things this year. He will have to rely on running back DeMarco Murray to lighten his load. Murray is a tough runner, but his issue has been staying healthy. He will have to, because the Cowboys cannot seriously trot out the pitiful Felix Jones anymore. Another big reason I can’t get behind the Cowboys is the interior of the o-line. I think left tackle Tryon Smith is ready to join the elite, but the Cowboys managed to pour money into the guard positions and still come away worse. If you watched their preseason opener against the Raiders you would see the sad state of this group. I think Dallas’ defense improves with two new corners and a year of experience in Rob Ryan’s scheme. However, with some unreliable players and slew of issues on the offensive line, I see more cursing from their dirty pirate defensive coordinator and not playoffs for Dallas this year.
17. Arizona Cardinals (8-8)
It comes down to quarterback in the desert folks. If there is ever an example that QB is the most important position in the NFL, it is this team. I believe fully that is Arizona had convinced Peyton Manning to come to Arizona than we could be looking at a super bowl team. The Cardinals have Larry Fitzgerald, who is still at the top of his game, and even added to the receiver stable with rookie Malcolm Floyd. The Cardinals also hold two talented, though banged-up, young running backs in Beanie Wells and Ryan Williams. There is also some talent with the complementary receivers and tight ends. The defense finally seemed to round into form last year with young players stepping up and veterans maintaining steady play. Calais Campbell and Darnell Docket are two complete terrors at 3-4 end while Sam Acho and O’Brien Schoefield look to elevate the pass rush. All this good won’t matter if the QB position is faulty. Coach Ken Whisenhunt needs to swallow the poison and insert John Skelton as the regular season starter over Kevin Kolb already. The team, and Fitzgerald especially, seem energized with him under center. He may not be the long-term answer but he is a big guy with a rocket right arm. Frankly, he can’t be worse than Kolb. Kolb is not accurate enough for a guy with an average skill set. He does not seem to handle pressure well either, and that will not do behind a makeshift offensive line. With Skelton playing the full year I think Arizona could make some noise in the NFC West, but I don’t know if I can call them contenders without a real QB solution.
16. Carolina Panthers (6-10)
Hope abounds in the Carolinas and it’s all thanks to Cam Newton. The No. 1 picked shocked everyone last year when he burst on to the scene with some stunning performances to start the year and subsequently revived the dormant superstar receiver, Steve Smith. Cam showed he was a nightmare for defenses to handle with his outstanding running ability and surprising understanding for the pro game. However, as the season went on his ridiculous numbers fell a bit, but the team started to win as he made fewer mistakes and did not have to carry the squad. Newton is easily the biggest star this team has ever had and his presence has and will always raise expectations. It is hard not to get excited about this team. Joining Newton and Smith on offense are now two all-around backs in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, new versatile fullback/tailback Mike Tolbert, and solid tight end Greg Olson. The o-line is also a solid group of young players and veterans. Last years issue were with the defense, no doubt annoying head coach and defensive guy, Ron Rivera. Realistically though, it cannot get any worse than 2011. Jon Beason is returning from a lost season due to injury and the hope is he will team with first rounder Luke Keuchly to form a stud group of linebackers. The Panthers need young talent to emerge at other positions for this team to truly take the next step. Optimism abounds in Charlotte, and rightfully so, but it could be another year before this team can make noise in the post season.
15. Buffalo Bills (6-10)
Will this finally be the year Buffalo sneaks into the playoffs? It very well could be. Buffalo snagged the prize free agent in the young and skilled defensive end Mario Williams and then paired him with Mark Anderson hoping to fix their pass rush issues. These two will team with stud defensive tackles Kyle Williams and Marcel Dareus to put pressure on opposing QBs and stuff the run. With this new look d-line the Bills should be able to field a defense that is opportunistic and capable. On offense the team needs a healthy return by star running back Fred Jackson. Before his season was cut short by injury he was the centerpiece of this offense and an MVP candidate. He was effectively replaced by former top 10-draft pick C.J. Spiller. The Bills cannot afford to reduce Jackson’s touches too much but Spiller looks to be a dynamic weapon as well. This should be a 1-2 punch to be reckoned with. My issue with this team lies behind center with quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick played extremely well to start off last year but came crashing back to earth soon after the Bills rewarded him with a big contract extension. Sources say he was not fully healthy to finish the year out and that could have affected his performance. One way or another Buffalo needs Fitzpatrick playing at a high level because big things are expected of the Bills for the first time in years.
14. Denver Broncos (8-8)
I know most are jumping on the Bronco bandwagon after the acquisition of Peyton Manning, but I am going to hold off on the assessment that they are a playoff lock. Manning is a first ballot hall of famer without question, but will he automatically elevate this team to title contender status? Perhaps. However, there are a few things to consider. When last we saw Manning it was 2010 and he was coming off a season where he threw 17 interceptions and regressed just a tad off of his otherworldly career standards. At age 36, and after four neck procedures, it is entirely possible Manning will not be at the same level of skill we are accustomed to seeing. Also, this player spent the better part of two decades with the same team and in the same system. The offensive system Manning runs is based off precision, timing and requires tons of practice reps. It is difficult to tell whether this offense has spent enough time with Manning to “get on his level”. Not only this, but the system this team ran with Tim Tebow last year couldn’t be more different than the one Manning will require. This entire segment has been about Manning and that is because it is all about Manning. If he is at the same level we know him at and he is healthy, this team will be a handful to deal with. If he is not either of those two things, well then we are looking at Caleb Hanie and a losing record.
13. Kansas City Chiefs (7-9)
I really like the Chiefs this season. I think they will win their division over the Manning led Broncos. In the first few weeks of the season the Chiefs may have lost some of their best players on offense, running back Jamal Charles, and defense, safety Eric Berry. They also lost a solid young tight end in Tony Moeaki as well. In addition to these guys returning healthy, Kansas City made some great additions to their roster. Tackle Eric Winston is easily a top 5 right tackle in this league and they solidified a really weak spot for them when they scooped him up when the Texans released him. He should be able to blast open big holes for Charles and another good addition in running back Peyton Hillis. Hillis was a big baby last season when he whined about a contract extension and rumors surfaced he wanted to get into the CIA (perhaps he will get over that pipe dream now that he isn’t on the Browns). Hillis should be a more than capable second runner and compliment the mending Charles well. The hope is Romeo Crennel can lead a team better in his second chance as a head guy. The defense is filled with high talented players and the thought is Crennel can make them a stud unit. The main question here is Matt Cassel. Since coming over from New England, Cassel has been pretty up and down; he has also been a medical concern as well. I think Cassel is a guy that needs everything to go right and a strong supporting cast to succeed. This team is stacked around him and I think he can be just good enough to get to the playoffs and a division title, but Cassel has shown he cannot be counted on after that.
12. Atlanta Falcons (10-6)
There are things to like about the Falcons. I think they could have two stud receivers on their hands and I believe Julio Jones is going to be the top guy over Roddy White starting this year. Matt Ryan played well as the year went on and I think they really could be a force with those three guys attacking a team’s secondary. My main issue that keeps me from calling this team a top 10 squad is that they seem to have quickly gone from a young and talented team to one that is getting old fast. I do not see how their pass rush is going to improve without any major additions. John Abraham had 9.5 sacks but got many of those against poor teams. They will need guys like Jon Babineaux and Ray Edwards to be really healthy and play well above what they showed last season. At other spots on defense I really like Sean Weatherspoon, but the loss of Curtis Lofton at MLB is a big one. This new coaching staff determined he was a two down linebacker, but I think he is still a good player and will be missed. Asante Samuel, Dunta Robinson and Brent Grimes, on paper, form a nice group of corners. At running back I think Michael Turner is just about done. He abuses bad defenses and scores touchdowns, but he is aging and slow due to his high number of carries. The Falcons have been touting offensive changes and the emergence of Jaquizz Rodgers. If this coaching staff can change their conservative ways and let Ryan loose and keep Turner on a pitch count, this team could do damage.
11. New Orleans Saints (13-3)
Wow, what an offseason for the Saints. They got gutted by the bounty scandal and went through a nasty public spat with Drew Brees over his contract. However, things are not all a loss. Brees is under contract and is deservedly the highest paid player in the league. He has looked great in camp and in the preseason. Brees will be his usual awesome self and there is no question there. Rumors have begun to surface that maybe the entire contract dispute was staged so that Drew Brees could communicate with suspended head coach Sean Payton. Wouldn’t surprise me given the Saints have shown they are, at best, a shady bunch. I think the loss of Payton does hurt the team slightly and it is why I have them outside the top 10. Truthfully I do not think the player suspensions hurt this team that much. Vilma is a declining player who is a liability now. Incredibly, adding David Hawthorne and Curtis Lofton has actually upgraded the linebackers. Will Smith is the best pass rusher on this team but perhaps they will be able to overcome this loss with new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s schemes. He has shown he is a big time coach on the defensive side and he is surely a better option than crook Gregg Williams. Brees and his deep crew of offensive weapons will not be missing a beat, and if this defense plays better under Spagnuolo, then maybe this team truly overcomes its offseason storm.
10. Baltimore Ravens
Poor Baltimore. They were just oh so close last year, but losers like Billy Cundiff and Lee Evans really blew it for guys like Ed Reed and Ray Lewis to “snag another” ring. I worry now that their chances this year may have been compromised. My reasoning for this is two-fold. First and foremost is the Terrell Suggs injury. Suggs is a great player and he really sets the tone on that defense now. He is obviously a great pass rusher, and they do not have anyone close to that level on the roster, but he is a complete player against the run and pass. Rookie steal Courtney Upshaw should help but even if he gets half the number of sacks and can play the run like Suggs, is that enough? Also, the offensive line is a concern. Bryant McKinnie looks like he spent the offseason hanging out with Albert Haynesworth at the buffet line once again and he clearly can’t be counted on. Michael Oher has not shown that he is a franchise level tackle despite his movies’ success. To pile on they lost solid guard Ben Grubbs and center Matt Birk is another year older. I believe in Joe Flacco, but can he succeed behind this line? Ray Rice should be as awesome as always but can he overcome his surroundings? This team will need old guys to hang on and young guys to step up on both sides of the ball for this team to be the same Ravens we know.
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)
Pittsburgh is in the mix every year. It just is always that way. Ben Roethlisberger is a star QB and he will make his whole team better. Truthfully he could even take a step further this year because the Steelers finally put big time resources into its offensive line. In rounds one and two they netted a top guard and tackle prospect in David DeCastro and Mike Adams. If Adams keeps his head on straight he and second year man Marcus Gilbert will make a good young tandem. With Ben having the best line in front of him he’s had in years he should excel throwing to Antonio Brown, Emmanuel Sanders, and Mike Wallace, provided he shows up. The running back spot is a concern for them. Mendenhall won’t be around to start the season and Isaac Redman will have to come up big for them. On defense, they shredded some dead weight over there by cutting some old and declining players. If everyone stays healthy over there then this team will stay to their elite defensive standards. The Steelers will get 10 plus wins and will compete for the post season, just like always.
8. Detroit Lions (10-6)
Matt Stafford to Megatron. Rejoice Lions’ fans because you will be able to enjoy this lethal combo for years to come. These two young players are both unbelievable talents and they will be around for a long time to tear up opponents. They are not alone in the passing game as well. Young receivers like Ryan Broyles and Titus Young should be able to support Calvin Johnson and Nate Burleson should be a calming veteran presence. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew is a good short to intermediate target and provides a nice safety net for Stafford. On the o-line the Lions made a nice addition with rookie Riley Reiff. He should start somewhere on the line and that will help the offense maintain a high level of play. The question on that side of the ball is running back. They imagined a nice young 1-2 punch with Jahvid Best and Mikel Leshoure, but the two are having trouble remaining healthy (and Leshoure loves getting high and driving to Wendy’s). They will need to count as Kevin Smith, who also has a fragile reputation. On defense the line gets big time hype, and some of it deserved, but it could take another step. Ndamukoung Suh took a step back last year and they need him to recapture the nightmare form he showed his rookie year. Fellow DT Nick Fairley could step up but he is also trending quickly towards thug4life status with his “two arrests in one-month” ways. The secondary is also a big question mark. The only corner who is proven to be a decent player is Chris Houston and he will need another young player to step up across from him. Ultimately, this team is on the rise to elite status, but for now they are not finished building and will be in a ton of shootouts.
7. Chicago Bears (8-8)
Well thank goodness Mike Martz is gone. That alone, I believe, helps out this team. Martz was a poor fit as coordinator for this team and he showed his coaching philosophies are outdated. Matt Forte and Jay Cutler are back healthy after missing some weeks last season to end the year. Forte should remain a solid do it all runner who can catch the ball well out of the backfield. The key now is that Cutler will have some weapons. I firmly believe in Cutler’s status as a stud player and now that he is reunited with his former receiver Brandon Marshall, I think he will show the world. Marshall changes everything for the Bears and he should elevate Cutler back to the days in Denver when they were producing top of the league type numbers. The only concern on offense is on the line. Martz, and his nonsensical 10 step drops, being gone should help this group, but there is a lack of talent on this unit. New coordinator Mike Tice is a line guru and the hope is he can continue to coach this young group up. Defensively the Bears are older, sure, but they are still a top unit. If these old veterans don’t endure a massive drop off then we can certainly see this team in the post season. The Bears do the little things well and have a great special teams unit. Those things could launch them back to the big time.
6. Houston Texans (10-6)
What a change the Texans made last year. They finally jumped into the post season after years of potential. The other less talked about change is that this team’s strength is now its defense. Mario Williams is gone, but he missed most of last season with injury anyhow and the Texans still thrived under Wade Phillips. Brian Cushing, J.J. Watt, Brooks Reed, and especially Connor Barwin are a crew of white boys on the defense who just flat out ball. They are ferocious and nasty defenders who give high effort on every snap. With these four in place this front seven should remain a top 3 group. Jonathan Joseph leads an improved secondary and this team can surely count on this side of the ball. Despite being strong for years the offense has some questions. The top three players on this unit (Matt Schaub, Arian Foster, and Andre Johnson) all missed time last year. They will need this trio to stay healthy all year if it wants to advance even further into the playoffs. It also let an offensive line that was a top unit, break apart this year and that has to be a concern. Still, I think we see this team run away with their division and do some things in the playoffs.
5. San Francisco 49ers (13-3)
Jim Harbaugh sure helped out this squad. I can still remember watching the kickoff cover guys dancing before the ball was kicked during their playoff game against the Saints. Moments like that, and Vernon Davis’ emotion in that contest, let you see the change Harbaugh brought to the team and that they truly want to follow him. After former coach Mike Singletary pantsing himself during halftimes, I don’t blame them. This defense is just incredible. They are a physical and aggressive unit with studs at every level. Patrick Willis and Navarro Bowman form an inside linebacker tandem that really is unlike any we have seen before. Aldon Smith needs to avoid knives, booze, and house parties and take the next step to becoming an every down linebacker. Justin Smith is an animal and really a player that everyone wants on their team. On offense they have added some firepower at receiver and in the backfield. Mario Manningham should be a nice complimentary piece and perhaps Randy Moss can show he has something in the tank. The hope is that this all makes Alex Smith better in his second year under this regime. However, Smith is streaky and really the Niners seemed lukewarm, at best, in regards to their commitment to him this offseason. Perhaps we see former second rounder Colin Kaepernick sooner than later.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (8-8)
Last year I thought I was the only one not buying the dream team business. This year, count me among those who are drinking the Kool-Aid. I think a year together, and a full offseason, can do this team a ton of good. It looks like this team is committed to playing the type of defense it needs to, lock-down man coverage with and aggressive d-line. Nnamdi Asomugha should be able to thrive now that he will be used correctly and quite frankly this d-line looks like it will give offenses fits all year. They have about eight guys that they can rotate in and out of the game and all can get after QBs. Former Texan DeMeco Ryans and rookie Mychal Kendricks look like they can stabilize the weakest part of the unit last year. On offense it all revolves around Mike Vick. LeSean McCoy is a total stud; they have plenty of receiving options, and a stout line. The concern has to be with Vick. He has certainly moved on from his days as the former king of thug4life, but he is extremely injury prone, can’t grasp the mental part of the game, and is unreliable. With his running style and slight frame he is almost a guarantee to miss about three weeks of games. He also took a huge step back last year from his video game level of 2010. He made poor decisions and committed way too many turnovers. I truly believe if the Eagles do not reach their lofty goals than it will all fall on Vick’s shoulders. If so, they need to look for a new QB and leader.
3. Green Bay Packers (15-1)
This is where ranking the teams is very challenging as these next teams are pretty interchangable. Green Bay is not going to drop far from their high standards they set last year. Aaron Rodgers and the passing game will probably only get better with Greg Jennings fully healthy, Jermichael Finely improving, and Randall Cobb progressing. The line lost old guardsmen Chad Clifton, but it should continue to progress with younger players. The running back situation is hazy with James Starks not looking like a bell cow back and now Cedric Benson on board (the definition of bleh). The running game needs to at least be half of what the passing game is for there to be some semblance of balance. Then again, Rodgers and the boys are so good that maybe they will be just fine without them. On defense we all know this team regressed last season. However, there were some veteran and rookie additions to help this team’s pass defense. Rookies Jerel Worthy and Nick Perry should be just enough to help out Clay Matthews in the pass rush department. The key will be for the secondary to actually stop someone. They are oppurtunistic and can get turnovers but this team needs to slow down other QBs, so that Aaron Rodgers can just do his thing agaisnt the opposing team.
2. New England Patriots (13-3)
It seems likely the Patriots will be right back in the thick of things this season. In fact they could be even better than they were before. Last season, this offense was just about unstoppable with tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez making life miserable down the middle of the field with Wes Welker working the slot. The one thing they lacked was a downfield threat who could work the sidelines. Well, now they have added Brandon Llyod who comes to New England to once again work under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who returns to the Patriots after failing elsewhere. Llyod has always suceeded in McDaniels’ scheme and now with Tom Brady heeving him passes, it seems he will continure to thrive. With Llyod likely being the missing piece this offense needed, scoring points through the air will not be a problem in New England. In the ground game it will be up to young guys like Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, and olympian Jeff Demps to carry the load. The questions for this team are once again on defense. Did the Patriots really do enough to improve this unit in the draft? That remains to be seen. Young athletic guys like Chandler Jones and Donta Hightower should help the matter, but it will also be up to guys like Devin McCourty to recapture their past form. If all of New England’s additions can pan out and can play their roles, this team could very well be looking at another season like 2007.
1. New York Giants (9-7)
You have to hand it to the champs. For the second time in four years they were the surprise team to hoist the Lombardi trophy and best future Hall of Famers, Brady and Belichick. The key for them this year will be living up to the potential they showed in the playoffs. It sounds like their focus is right, which is always at least half the battle with super bowl winners. They are saying they enter this year with the mindset of they were a 9-7 ball club that didn’t play to its potential. Eli Manning is the leader of this team and its best player. He emerged as a truly elite player at his position with a second ring and carried the team throughout the regular season. He needs to have a repeat performance and should be able to accomplish that feat. Star receivers Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz return and they have a group of young guys fighting to replace the departed Mario Mannigham. They added Virginia Tech rookie running back David Wilson to take the load off the fragile Ahmad Bradshaw. The offensive line is a weak spot and they will need players to perform better than last year because no significant additions were made. They should be strong defensively with an all-star cast on the d-line headed up by Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck. They have a strong rotation that can take the pressure off a secondary that has many talented players. The Giants certainly have the ability to be a better team than last year as long as they stay focused and improve on some weak spots.
