'24 PRE-SZN RECORD PREDICTIONS

CLEVELAND

BROWNS

(8-9)

4th in div.

9th in conf.

The Cleveland Browns are coming off of a season where their defense was the most intimidating unit in the entire NFL. However, they were lead by a 38-year old Joe Flacco to take them to the playoffs, where they ultimately lost to the Houston Texans. Going into the off-season, the Browns kind of realized they have a bit of a mess at QB. Watson is the big money man, but isn't playing like it, so they tried to bring in some weapons. Key word 'tried' as with no 1st round pick, they had a measly draft class, that isn't going to make splashes. They added Thrash, who is a work in progress, and traded for Jerry Jeudy.

However I do believe that they made some very solid off-season acquisitions, with my favorite bringing in two fantastic back-up QBs in Winston and Huntley, that will either motivate Watson or let Winston run the offense. They will also see the return of a top 3 running back in the NFL in Nick Chubb, which could carry the offense. 

Overall, I feel like the free agency losses on the defensive side of the ball and the lack of confidence leaves the Browns floating around .500.

I would say that their ceiling as a team would be second place in their division. This division is too loaded and I think the odds that one of the other 3 is better is near 100%. Their floor is around here at 8-6 wins.

CINNCINNATI

BENGALS

(10-7)

3rd in div.

7th in conf.

The Bengals had a lackluster season last year, but no-one seems to be down on them at all. That's because Burrow was hurt a majority of the year, resulting in them missing the playoffs and coming in last in their division. On top of that, they lost their star rb Joe Mixon, and are dangerously close to losing Tee Higgins.

However, they had a fantastic draft class in April, and got some nice free agents in the offseason, and appear ready to get back after the Lombardi this season. You may be wondering why only the 10 win record, and that is because of Joe Burrow's health. It feels a little wrong to hold that against them, but we saw how quick the wheels fell off when he was sidelined, and he does now have a rather extensive injury history. The other thing: they are in the toughest division in football. If you put them in just about most every other division, they have a great chance at winning it.

I don't want this to seem like a pessimistic prediction for the Bengals, because if all goes right, then they have the roster and top talent to win it all. The X-factor is if Burrow is healthy at the end of the day, and how the rest of the division preforms. Their ceiling is a team very capable of winning the division, 13 wins, and hoisting the Lombardi, however, I think their floor is about 8-9 wins, especially if the injury bug bites again.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

(11-6)

2nd in div.

5th in conf.

Right off the top I have to just say that the Steelers have been the best in the NFL at drafting for the past few seasons, and it is starting to pay off. Their big question mark was always the QB, even dating back to Big Ben's last few seasons. They haven't had average to above average QB play in a very long time, and this off-season, they made maybe the smartest decision any team made. They brought in Russell Wilson, who is coming off a season in which he was top 10 in TDs, Passer Rating, and TD/INT ratio. You can say what you will, but Russ showed there is absolutely still gas in the tank, and even if he falters, they also brought in a tremendous athlete in Justin Fields.

However, I don't think that will be necessary, as with this roster, Russ may be feeling like it's 2013 again. An elite defense that improved even more this offseason through the draft and free agency, and a running game that has a two-headed monster. So, what's there to worry about? Well, Wilson and Fields, as confident as I am in them, are wild cards, and could not produce at the level needed to win games. Much like the Bengals, they also play in the AFC North, the toughest division, so there are some losses on the year there as well.

Be that as it may, I predict that Wilson will thrive in an environment where he doesn't have to be the savior like in Denver or the second half of his career in Seattle. This team's ceiling is winning the division, and at least a conference championship appearance, and their floor is about 9 wins in my eyes.

BALTIMORE RAVENS

(12-5)

1st in div.

2nd in conf.

Realistically, the Ravens had the best roster last season. You could say it was the niners, but I think the Ravens had a better QB and overall defense. That obviously doesn't mean they were the best team, just that they were the most complete. Well, what if I told you that roster simply only improved.

Last year the Ravens fell apart in the second half of the AFC Championship game, so close to glory, but mistakes, and lack of playoff experience ultimately decided their fate. This season, they run it back, but they have King, Derrick Henry in the backfield. This is a nightmare scenario for the rest of the league, as they could honestly only run read options and win games doing so. They lost some pieces like Patrick Queen and Odell, but they replenished through the draft and free agency.

I would more than likely say they easily have a top 3 roster in the NFL again, with a two-time MVP at their helm. To bring them back to Earth, they do play in the AFC North, and aren't really a team built to play from behind, which could hurt them come playoff time. That being said, they are a comfortable team to bet on making the playoffs, as I'd say their floor is 10 wins, and ceiling being 13 wins, with a Super Bowl win as well.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

(6-11)

4th in div.

13th in conf.

Boy this feels weird, talking about the Patriots without Belichick. They have sat at the bottom of the AFC East and haven't seen the playoffs in years, So I understand the move to part ways with their HC. Jerod Mayo is inheriting a pretty bad roster all around, but I feel pretty hopeful for this team. I like Drake Maye, I think he is a dude, and when you draw comparisons to Herbert and Allen, two top 5 QBs in the game. As for the rest of the offense, I do like the additions they made through the draft and free agency. The problem is there was almost nothing to work with before besides Rhamondre Stevenson.

On the other side of the ball, they have some nice pieces in the front seven, and two good corners. I think everyone kind of writes off this team as a shoe in for last in the division, and although I do have them last as well, It is close (you'll see). I think obviously the X-factor is Drake Maye and when he takes over the offense, if at all in his rookie year. I do think they would be better if he started right away, but I do appreciate the waiting for him to be 100% ready.

It is a relatively tough schedule though, and with the question marks on offense, I have them at 6 wins. I could see them be as weak as 4 wins, and as strong as 8.

NEW YORK JETS

(7-10)

3rd in div.

12th in conf.

I was low on them last year, and I am again this year, I think. Don't get me wrong, I think the roster is pretty darn good. Great weapons on offense, and a very solid defense. Maybe I got lucky predicting them to be bad with the Rodgers injury, but I am doing it again. I have been searching as to why I feel this way, and I can't explain it, it's a little bit more of a gut feeling. That doesn't mean that there aren't statistics, though, as they were pretty horrid against the run on defense last season, and they didn't exactly improve much in that sense. Also, Rodgers hasn't played a full regular season game in a long time, and when he did, he was lackluster, and frankly a little dissapointing. 

Now I can't rule out that Rodgers finds that in himself again and leads this team on a deep playoff run. It is harder to picture though because he doesn't seem like he takes it all very seriously or takes care of his body very well, which is really dissapointing. This is a phenomenal roster, and the GM has really put together a team that can win in this league, yet they have this huge question mark at QB, and honestly, at Head Coach too. Saleh can run a solid defense, but in his tenure he still hasn't found a way to make really anything on offense work. Wouldn't be suprised if Saleh is fired before the end of the season.

Once again, tough schedule, I think this team has a floor of about 5 wins, and honestly if everything goes right, a ceiling of 12 wins, and a playoff run.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

(7-10)

2nd in div.

11th in conf.

And here is another bombshell. I have the 2023 no. 1 scoring offense going 7-10. It seems harsh, but this schedule is tough, and finding a realistic way for them to get 10+ wins was rough. That being said, this team had a mediocre off-season. I liked parts of their draft class and free agency, but the best parts they added were to areas where they were already pretty strong at.

7 wins feels ridiculous, right? Until you look at the depth chart on defense, then I think it starts to support my case. They lost their best DT, have 3 linebackers out to start the season, and a relatively older secondary. They have a bottom 10 defense, and the 3rd worst redzone defense, and the 5th worst passing defense in 2023. I bet just about every game they have will be a shootout, as the weapons and play-calling are some of the best in the NFL.

My next reason is: Tua. Now, I am not of the opinion that Tua is a bad QB. This is a guy that has put his body through the ringer, from leg injuries, to arm injuries, and most importantly head injuries. I think he is an excellent distributor of the football, and is a slightly above average quarterback. I don't think he is transcendent or necessarily comparable to the other QB's in the AFC, but he is far from the issue on this team. It is far and away the defense, and when they start losing games, people are going to blame Tua, and cheat him out of his money in Miami. I personally am rooting for Tua to have another great season, but I only see them getting about 7 wins. I think their ceiling with an overperforming defense and they keep the number 1 offense, and say their injured defensive players come back early and go on a late season push, I could see them with 10 wins. The issue is, their schedule gets tougher as the season goes on, but I think 6 wins is honestly their floor, and 7-10 is pretty worst case scenario. I just don't buy the dudes on defense, and as much as I respect Tua, he himself can't win games himself.

BUFFALO BILLS

(11-6)

1st in div.

4th in conf.

I have the Bills winning the AFC East, again. They ended up winning it again last year, and I don't see that changing for a bit. Look, I understand that they lost Diggs, and they have these big playoff losses, but I genuinely believe that Josh Allen is the best 'Athlete' in the NFL. (I didn't say QB) I think with him, he brings so much to the offense with his aggressive running style and his arm strength. Also, I believe Diggs became a liability towards the end of his tenure with the Bills. Do you remember that huge drop on the deep pass in the playoffs? Yeah, I do too.

The truth is, they had a solid free agency, and a solid draft. I like their receivers this season more than I did last year, and although they lost some defensive backs, they made some pretty good lowkey signings to keep it a viable secondary.

The truth is, they always have a good defense with McDermott, and Josh Allen's dynamic playmaking ability always allows for a good offense. Realistically, their floor is only about 9 wins in my opinion, as I would be shocked if they missed the playoffs. The problem arises when it comes playoff time, and if they are healthy and playing their smartest football. This team has to be more clutch in the 4th quarter and in the playoffs in general, because the ceiling is about 13 wins, and hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. It almost sounds like a broken record, but I can't wait to see how this team plays against the Chiefs, as I think the best is yet to come between those two teams.

Also quick note: I have been a fan of Khalil Shakir since his college days, and have said he is super underrated for a long time.

DENVER BRONCOS

(3-14)

4th in div.

16th in conf.

...

Unfortunately, I have the Broncos with the worst record in the AFC. I know, it's pretty harsh, but searching to find wins on their schedule was harsher. At the end of the day, it's a roster amid turnover. Sean Payton is still in the process of bringing in his own guys, and they haven't had the draft picks nor money to get his own guys, so, the roster ends up looking very scrapped together.

Speaking of the roster, it is probably the worst in the AFC. Not to say they don't have nice pieces here and there, but some of the pieces have yet to play in the NFL, and the other pieces aren't quite proven either. An unfortunate reality is that outside of Pat Surtain, they likely don't have many other Pro Bowl caliber players.

Now, I am also kind of giving them this record as a statement/question: Can we trust Sean Payton? Your gut says that you can, as he is one of the smartest offensive minds in the league, but also, he hasn't accomplished much without Drew Brees as his signal caller. In his first season with the Broncos, he seemingly intentionally made things difficult for Russell Wilson, as an excuse to get him out of town and get his own QB. He COULD have made Russell Wilson work, if he played to his strengths, but his ego was in the way. Regardless of how you feel about Wilson, he handled that situation poorly, and suspiciously malicious. If you are going to be malicious, you better be ready to back it up with success, but this roster and this schedule past week 9, is not going to be kind to them. I see their ceiling as about 7 wins, and this is about their floor.

LAS VEGAS RAIDERS

(5-12)

3rd in div.

15th in conf.

Now, the Raiders are in this weird kind of limbo state at the moment. I don't think they are trying to compete this season, because they don't have a serious option at quarterback. I like Minshew, but he is a bridge qb. I would say there will likely be rumors that they are tanking for a qb in the draft. The roster as well doesn't feel like it's totally all the way there, as I think the best example there is is taking Brock Bowers in the first round. If they were trying to win now, they would have taken a more important position like QB, or a position of need. Instead, they took the best player available, because they won't compete this season.

That's not to say they won't win some games though. They always find themselves winning a healthy amount, and I do think they have guys that can take over a game on both sides (Adams, Crosby). However, much like the Broncos, they have a tough schedule, so don't expect a win total much beyond about 7 maybe 8 wins. I'd say they have a floor of about 3 wins as well.

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

(9-8)

2nd in div.

8th in conf.

It is a new era for LA. Harbaugh is in, and Staley is out, and it feels oh so refreshing for the Chargers. If there is anything Jim Harbaugh knows how to do, it is run the football and play good defense. Although it is only his first year with the team, same with the GM, they have already brought in some guys that will fit the scheme, and could make this team way better.

The clear goal of the offseason was to take the pressure off of Herbert as much as possible. Get a better O-line, run game, and defense, and let Herbert cook. It really is an almost flawless strategy, as it results in a lot of success, just look at the Chiefs last season, and most notably the 2013 Seahawks. Now I'm not saying this team will win the Super Bowl, let alone make the playoffs, but I think the ingredients are definitely there.

Now I don't have them making the playoffs, because this schedule is hard. Like, really hard. I think this team would make the playoffs if they just had one or two more easier games. That being said, this team might have the biggest flux of a ceiling to a floor. Like I said, the ingredients are there for this team to be a potent threat, they drafted really well, and added some good free agents. So, I think their ceiling is about 11-12 wins, and potentially a Super Bowl. However, I think the floor is quite low though as well. This schedule could be far too much for them to deal with, and maybe Harbaugh is rusty or it doesn't click with Herbert right away. So, I think the floor is around 4-5 wins.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

(11-6)

1st in div.

3rd in conf.

Who woulda thought having the Chiefs going 11-6 and winning the division would be being low on them? Now, I am not doubting their ability to win championships. This is a regular season record predictions, and some teams are better built for the regular season or have an easier schedule.

No one in the league does more with less than Andy Reid, and every year, we doubt the weapons they have, and then they prove us wrong and Reid makes the most of what he's got. I do think they as a roster, did regress, and didn't have a good enough draft to maintain their solid roster, but I don't think they will feel the ripple effects of having a bad draft this season, rather in future seasons. I could talk about how they will eventually come back to earth in a year or two, but I do think they will be solid again this year. Are they my pick to win the Super Bowl this year? No, that, I am keeping close to my chest. I think there are teams that are a little more dynamic on offense while also having just as good of a defense.

Having Patrick Mahomes does help though, and that's why they easily secure a playoff spot. I think we all know what their ceiling is, so I'm just gonna save the time. I think their floor is 10 wins.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

(5-12)

4th in div.

14th in conf.

I don't think that losing streak to end their season last year was a fluke, I think it was a sign of what's to come. This team doesn't have an identity, nor does it have near a competent roster to compete in the AFC. The Jags are just plain weird. I think their weapons could be the best in the league, but also could be the worst in the AFC as well, such a high ceiling low floor group. Their defense is lackluster, and reallistically, the rest of their division got so much better this season comparatively.

Trevor Lawrence got his money this off-season, and I think it's partially shocking to me, because me personally, I still don't know what he is in the NFL. There are always the stat comparisons of his first seasons to Minshews, and they are scarily similar, yet Lawrence gets to be the franchise QB. While Lawrence did have an abysmal coach his rookie year, I do think there is some truth to it. I hope he is good, and the Jags prove me wrong this season, but as far as I am concerned, someone has to be the odd one out, and has to be last in the division, and I couldn't do that to any of the other teams in this division.

I understand this is one of my more out there predictions for the season, but I think the possibility is absolutely there. They ended their season horribly, but had a semi-decent offseason. However, everyone else in the AFC South ended their season with some optimism, and had great off-seasons. I think their ceiling as a team is about 9 wins, and getting a Wild Card, however I think about 4 wins is their floor.

TENNESSEE TITANS

(8-9)

3rd in div.

10th in conf.

The Titans have officially put Will Levis in the best position to win possible. Don't believe me? Picture someone like Mahomes or Herbert with this kind of roster around them. The Titans probably made the most impact moves this off-season in terms of guys that are going to make a difference right away. Defense is significantly better, weapons are way better, and offensive line is way better. You almost forget that they lost Derrick Henry this off-season with how well they performed as a front office.

Now, I am not over the moon about Levis, and you hate to put the pressure on the guy this early in his career, but the Titans will find out if he is the franchise QB this season one way or another, because I don't think they will wait around past this season, especially with guys like Dak they can throw money at this next off-season.

I think Levis is going to be solid, but not amazing or anything. I think he is going to improve, but to an extent. They are still in the AFC and are going to have to claw for a Wild Card spot, which I think is definitely in reach for them. This team is way more ready to compete than many think they will be, although I only see their ceiling this year being about 10 wins. I think their floor is about 4-5 wins.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

(11-6)

2nd in div.

6th in conf.

Take everything I just said about the Titans, put it on steroids, and give them a sure-fire stud at QB, and you have the Colts. Excellent off-season, and are coming off a year where they almost made the playoffs with a backup QB. This team and this coaching staff is nuts, and they are not messing around this season. I think if Richardson remains healthy, he is going to set the league on fire, and this team's weapons are so good.

To knock them a bit, I am a bit unsure how healthy this team can stay, but that also feels unfair to hold against them. There is room for imporvement on the defensive side, but not to an extent that holds this team back. They are ready to compete in the AFC, just as much as the big dogs of the AFC are. Call me a broken record, but this team's ceiling is 13 wins and the Super Bowl, and I genuinely believe this is their floor at 11 wins. This is genuinely the safest team to bet on this season in my eyes.

HOUSTAN TEXANS

(13-4)

1st in div.

1st in conf.

Remember when I said I was keeping my Super Bowl pick close to my chest? Yeah, I lied. It's the Texans. It just has to be. Excellent young QB on rookie contract. Team takes advantage of cheap QB by surrounding him with talent on both sides of ball. Some of the best weapons in the entire NFL. One of the most productive defensive ends in the NFL is now on their team. Coach of the year. I could just absolutely go on.

There really isn't a team that I think they don't outmatch. There are teams with better rosters, better coaches, and better QB's, but the Texans have struck the perfect balance between all three. It's also so easy to predict this, because Stroud could get even better than he was last year, and then what does the rest of the league do? I mean they'd have to give them the Lombardi Trophy at that point. They are in such a prime position to take a run at it, which is so fascinating considering this team had the number 2 overall pick a couple of years ago.

The ceiling is 14 wins and a ring, and their floor is 11 wins.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

(4-13)

4th in div.

15th in conf.

As of writing this, this feels pretty rude to do. I like what the Vikings are building, and when you are a team that sports the best receiver in the league, it's hard to say that the team will underperform. It was a top 10 passing offense in the NFL last season, but a bottom 5 on defense against the pass. Another stat that highly concerns me, is last season they had the highest percentage of drives ending in a turnover. Sure, when you have backup QB's a lot of the season, that will ultimately be your result, but this team is riding with a QB who has been a backup for awhile. Not to mention Aaron Jones who has fumble issues, so I don't really foresee that percentage changing that much, and it is going to be hard to win games when you are turining it over more and not playing good pass defense.

Like I've said before, I like what they are building, but this year is just simply a bridge year. McCarthy shouldn't play this year, and they need to establish a core on defense. Until then, they are in a division where the other 3 teams are going to try and compte this season. Combo that with a tough schedule, and they could be in for a rather rough 2024 season. I think their floor is about here though, at 4 wins, and I think their ceiling is around 8 wins, if Darnold actually sets the world on fire.

CHICAGO BEARS

(9-8)

3rd in div.

8th in conf.

As excited as I am for the Bears and Caleb Williams this season, I tried to be realistic. Trust me, I plan on drafting Caleb Williams in my dynasty fantasy football league, but I think the only thing holding this team back from being an elite NFC contender are two things: experience, and their head coach.

It's only natural for a team who's best players are in their first few seasons to be a little raw, and that is fine. There is nothing they can do about that, especially when they are going up against the Lions, who actually have the best shot at going all the way in a long time, so obviously, it will be hard for them to pass them year 1. But year 2? That depends on the other variable.

We don't really know if Eberflus is a good head coach. Everything so far has been lackluster at best from him, but the GM has created a good roster, and Id say if he doesn't work out this year, (which he more than likely won't), he will be replaced in the offseason by someone who can maximize Williams potential. That all being said, I think their floor is around 6 wins, and their ceiling is around 11, which would be exciting for Chicago, but shocking.

GREEN BAY PACKERS

(11-6)

2nd in div.

6th in conf.

Jordan Love took the reigns as a starter last season and it payed off with massive playoff success. Will the Packers pick up where they left off? I think so, to a degree. Comparatively to the rest of their division, there wasn't too much roster turnover in the offseason. They swapped out Aaron Jones for Josh Jacobs, and added Xavier McKinney. The rest of the division feels like they either got worse, got a new QB, or got a little better. i don't think it is a bad thing that not much changed for the Packers, as they were so close to going to the Super Bowl.

They still have their standard issues from last year, as they were 28th against the run, however, they were top 10 against the pass. As for their schedule, I would expect a lot of close games with them.

However, I do think that this is about the floor with them. 10-11 wins feels inevitable with a good QB and a good head coach, and a solid roster. I think they probably have the highest floor in the NFC. Even the Lions and the Niners, I feel like there are variables that could hurt them. As for their ceiling, I think it's probably only 12 wins. I think they probably have the highest floor and lowest ceiling amung NFC contenders. Not that I don't believe in them, I just think more could work for other NFC teams. In terms of playoffs, I think they will probably win at least one playoff game.

DETROIT LIONS

(12-5)

1st in div.

1st in conf.

The Lions are here. I was high on them last year and it panned out, and I am once again high on them again. Let me just get it straight, it is likely a top 2 roster in the leaugue, and it got better this offseason. They were a 4th down conversion away from potentially goin to the Super Bowl, and then from there, who knows?

They had a phenomenal draft. They got potentially the best corner in the class in Terrion Arnold, and another stellar corner in Rakestraw Jr, which completely revitalizes maybe the one hole on the roster, and turned it into a strength. They are also coming off a season in which they were the 2nd best passing offense, and 5th best rushing offense. The only thing that would concern me on offense are a couple of things: Jared Goff's consistency, and their WR depth. Goff is coming off his best season, so ideally there is nothing to worry about there, but he isn't the mobile type, and if all of the sudden something isn't clicking on offense, can we trust him to overcome being just a distributor. The bigger thing I am worried about is the wide receiver depth. This off-season, Amon-ra revealed he played hurt most of the season. Cool, but the Lions would have been, and would be screwed if they were without Amon-ra. This offense relies on him, and there isn't the depth at receiver behind him that could fill that void at all. Now, this shouldn't be a reason to worry unless he gets hurt, which is impossible to foresee. The antidote would be stealing Aiyuk from the other NFC contender, but that is for another time.

Their ceiling is about 14 wins, and their floor is around 9.

NEW YORK GIANTS

(4-13)

4th in div.

16th in conf.

Believe it or not, this hurts to do. I like Brian Daboll, I think he is a wonderful head coach. I like Malik Nabers, I think he will be a stud. I think they just make some really poor decisions as a front office, that refueses to put their team in any sort of contention. I'm sorry, but Daniel Jones is not it. I don't think he really adds anything to the QB position, that they couldn't find better. I hope he finds a way to ball out, but I don't think it is going to work out this season. This is just a rough schedule, and not a solid enough roster.

Honestly, the defense has some really, really solid pieces. The defense is going to make some noise, and probably keep this team from completely falling apart. The offensive weapons are not near as bad as people make them out to be, and honestly neither is the offensive line. the overall offense has improved. This team just feels haunted by whoever is taking the snap. If Daniel Jones can replicate his 2021 season, then maybe they could float around .500, but I think this is likely their floor as a team.

WASHINGTON COMMANDERS

(5-12)

3rd in div.

13th in conf.

I want to point out, that I am not this down on the Commanders. This is genuinely the toughest schedule in the entire NFL. In my predictions across the league, the Commanders play a whopping TEN teams with a winning record, and SEVEN of them being playoff teams in my predictions. That is truly unfortunate in every way.

On the bright side, Jayden Daniels is truly something that this fanbase can be excited about. He really is talented beyond what people give him credit for, and he could be insanely dangerous in the NFL. another bright spot to watch is the fact that they signed so many free agents, that the team may be almost unrecognizable, and that's a good thing.

However, there is one thing that I think is going to be far too hard to overcome, and that is their defense. Last season, they were last in nearly every category across board. That is likely not going to just change overnight. With that being said, I think that their floor is about 4 wins. I think there is a lot of upside to work with here though on the contrary. It's almost a completely new roster, and a potentially great QB taking the helm. I see their ceiling being about 9 wins, and I think that could realistically happen.

DALLAS COWBOYS

(11-6)

2nd in div.

5th in conf.

There is a lot of talk about the Cowboys future, and how it may seem bleak with all of the pending free agents they have after this season. Key word, 'after'. I still think this is a roster that can compete in the NFC.

I can understand how people are down on the Cowboys this year. Another disappointing first round exit, and a very disappointing offseason. But realistically, this offense was still number one in points scored last season, and 5th in scoring defense. So yeah, they may have lost some smaller pieces here and there, they are still likely going to be a top 10 offensive unit and a sport a talented defense again. I get it's fun to make fun of the Cowboys, and the "It's our year" jokes and what not, but hate them as much as you want, they are going to win a good amount of games and make the playoffs. Whether they will make a splash in the playoffs is up for interpretation, but they will more than likely be there.

The one thing that bothers me personally, is they did not address the running back position in a meaningful way. Could you imagine if they had King Henry? Regardless, I still think the Cowboys are going to be good again, and it shouldn't be suprising when they are good. I think the ceiling for this team is about 12 wins, again, this is a regular season team. I think their floor is only about 8 wins, or near .500.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

(12-5)

1st in div.

3rd in conf.

The Eagles are one of the most interesting contenders, if you'll call them that. I think they probably have the best front office in the entire league, as every offseason it feels like they do something right. This offseason, they had holes in their secondary, and at runningback. They drafted elite playmakers, and they stole Saquon from their rival Giants. It is really easy for me to look at their roster and say that this is one of the best rosters in the league, because it is. But, there are so many more factors at play. Firstly, some still believe the verdict is out on Jalen Hurts, on if he is capable enough. I personally believe he is, but I also can see where there might be some doubt. They are also coming off a season where they absolutely fell apart in the second half, and finishedd with the 30th ranked scoring defense. The biggest variable to me is Sirianni. I don't think he is a great head coach. I think he inherited an elite roster, and got carried. Never have I watched Sirianni be the reason they won the game.

However, in spite of all of that, I still think that this team is far too talented to fail. The weapons on offense are ridiculous, and the defense has enough stars to at the very minimum be league average. That being said, I think the floor is probably about where the Cowboys floor is, around .500. This also does feel like the ceilin for the Eagles as well.

ARIZONA CARDINALS

(6-11)

4th in div.

12th in conf.

Of all the fourth place teams in the NFL, I think I like the Cardinals the most. There is a lot to like and root for with this team. Don't get me wrong, they will most likely not be very good, and I think that they are still pretty far away from contention, but not too far. I really do like a lot of their rookies and new additons. Most notably, they got one of the most hyped prospect of the last decade in Marvin Harrison Jr. However, they have even more exciting rookies, like Trey Benson, and Max Melton. I think we could be looking back at this draft class and saying that they got the best receiver and runningback, because I believe they did.

That all being said, they had one of the worst defenses in the league last year, and I don't see enough improvement to make this team a competitive team. I like their offense, they are going to be a fun watch, and I think people will really enjoy watching them and rooting for them. I think that there is a chance that they could be pretty good, with around a ceiling of 9 wins. I could see this team going on a little bit of a run simmilar to the Texans last year, but that would be best case scenario for them, as their more achievable floor is about 4ish wins.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

(8-9)

3rd in div.

9th in conf.

Much like the Patriots, I think the Seahawks will be in a bit of limbo this year without their beloved head coach, Pete Caroll. I like the new HC, but he needs a few seasons to get the guys he wants in the philosophy he wants. It's comparable to the Patriots, but the Hawks have a much better roster. However, I do think that there will be some realizations in Seattle this season.

The first of which, is they don't have a real answer at the QB position. Since they have traded Wilson, I have been begging that they use the capital that they got in that trade, to acquire their next franchise QB. Instead, they have rid with Geno Smith. Has he played well? Yes. Can you win a Super Bowl with Geno Smith? No. I hate to be harsh but they had so many windows to get at least a developmental guy on day 2 of the draft at least, and they just didn't do it. Now, this season they are more than likely going to realize that they can't ride with Geno any longer, and that they are going to want to compete with the roster they have built. However, they will be good enough this year where I don't see them having a top 5 draft choice, so it will be interesting to see where they go at the QB position after this year.

As for this season, their division is tough, and as a team their strengths simply won't be enough to overcome better teams. I think their ceiling is 10 wins, and their floor is 5.

LOS ANGELES RAMS

(10-7)

2nd in div.

7th in conf.

I think the Rams will sneak into the playoffs in back to back years. I was a little shocked by how well the Rams played last year, and honestly I still am. It is a good roster and a good team, but I still get the feeling that they could potentially fall apart, or go to the Super Bowl again, it's super weird. 

I like the weapons they have on offense. They are insanely talented, and in the hands of their head coach, they will be used well. I think Stafford, while only probably having a couple years left, is still pretty good.

What was most shocking about the Rams last year was how surprisingly well the defense played, especially the front seven. They added some more good talent in the draft and in free agency.

So why only 10-7? I think the passing defense is still a little subpar, and ultimately, I am just not buying them more than of the other wild card teams this year. I think their ceiling is about 11 wins, and I think they have a high floor of about 8 wins.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

(12-5)

1st in div.

2nd in conf.

I mean, its the Niners. Do I really have to explain anything at all? They have a fantastic head coach, and a top 5 roster in the NFL that is littered with stars. There is nothing of value I can really say about the Niners because everyone knows their good, and why their good. The fact that they don't really have any holes on the roster, I could go on. However, I will say, if you watched the Super Bowl this past year and thought "That was cool, but I think I want some new teams here" you are going to have to wait at least one more year. The Niners are not going to be able to pay all of the contributors on their team, so it is only inevitable that they lose players and get worse, along with the Chiefs who haven't been drafting well. I can't guarantee that after this season that the two teams will be bad, but they are going to have to make some really tough decisions, and it is going to be difficult for them to remain atop the league.

I think their ceiling is 13 wins, and their floor is 10 wins.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

(5-12)

4th in div.

14th in conf.

I think the Panthers are a lot like the Cardinals, in the sense that I think we're still a year too early for this team. I think everyone is rooting for Bryce Young, and I do believe he will take a leap this season. They did a great job at bringing in actual weapons and a good running back, AND made some improvements to the offensive line. Even the defense made a couple of adjustments and should be decent.

Last year, the defense was actually pretty good, to a degree. they were 4th best in terms of yards on defense, yet 31st in points. That is one of the most insane statistics I have ever read, and it tells a crazy story. This defense could be really good, as it has the potential to be top 5 even. As for the offense, there is a long ways to go, and although I think they made the right steps in the right direction, I think they are still not ready to compete yet.

I think I could see them winning 7 games at the best, and at the worst, I could see them having a similar season to last year, around 2 wins. I think i can speak for everyone though when I say that everyone is rooting for Bryce Young to have a good season.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

(7-10)

3rd in div.

11th in conf.

The Saints are one of the most mediocre teams in the entire league. Ultimately, they have a pretty good team and roster. The weapons are solid, and the defense is formidable. That's why last year they had a top 10 scoring offense and defense. Yet, they never win enough games to get a good playoff spot. Ultimately, I think the mediocrity comes from their QB, Derek Carr. There isn't much to say about the Saints, other than that they have a good defense, and a good offense, but they probably won't win more than 9 games, and won't lose more than 11.

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

(8-9)

2nd in div.

10th in conf.

I have the Bucs just missing the playoffs this year after winning the division. The Buccaneers are coming off such an interesting season, after revitalizing Baker Mayfield. I think they are going to be one win worse.

They just feel a tiny bit worse than they were last year. Not by much though, as I still like their passing offense, and I think the defense is stout enough against the run. However, they were the worst team statistically running the ball. You have to be able to run the ball at an efficient enough level to win games, or else they won't be able to hold any leads over anybody. They drafted Bucky Irving, whom I like, but I don't know if it will be enough to make a huge splash.

As for their defense, they have built a great defensive front and a solid backend. So why only 8 wins? I just think they have a decently tough schedule, and as much as I loved Baker's year last year, there is some doubt in my mind about him. However, I wouldn't be shocked if they won the division with 11 wins, but I could see them having around 6 wins as well.

ATLANTA FALCONS

(11-6)

1st in div.

4th in conf.

Last but not least, I have the Falcons winning the NFC South. There has been some doubt about this team, and how it's all going to work out, because there are so many new pieces. I don't think it matters too much, because it is not hard for them to have the best roster in the South, so there are a lot of easy wins on their schedule.

I could talk about their HORRID draft class, from top to bottom, but it won't effect them this year. Cousins will be at the very least serviceable, and that is something the Falcons haven't had in a long time at the QB position. The weapons and line are great on offense, and they have a potential top 5 unit on defense. Now can this team make a splash in the playoffs? I think i'd have to wait and see how it looks on the field in the regular season before I can make any sort of playoff success predictions for them. That being said, they were already a good team, and they were just a QB away from at least being a playoff team, and I believe that they are a playoff team now. I think their ceiling is 12 maybe even 13 wins if they blow the league away, and I think their floor is about 9 wins. It's possible, but I doubt this team loses the division.