The 2022 NFL season is lower than per week away, as each workforce has excessive hopes of competing for a Tremendous Bowl title. The optimism is what makes the NFL nice, particularly when an extended shot just like the 2021 Cincinnati Bengals defied the percentages and got here out of nowhere to win the convention title.
Each workforce is hoping to place themselves able to be this season’s Bengals, however numerous elements must go proper to ensure that that to return to fruition. What’s a workforce’s lifelike ceiling in 2022? How good can every workforce be with its present roster? Or how badly can issues collapse?
With the NFL season right here, let’s check out the ceiling and flooring for all 32 franchises. Consider this as a information of what to anticipate for every workforce this season — or how we expect issues will play out.
Ceiling: 12-5, playoff victory
The Cardinals are a greater soccer workforce than many notice, but dangerous finishes to the season have outlined the Kliff Kingsbury period. After a 7-0 begin, Arizona completed 1-4 to shut the common season and was demolished by the eventual Tremendous Bowl champion Rams within the wild card spherical.
When DeAndre Hopkins does come again, the Cardinals can have Hopkins, Marquise Brown, A.J. Inexperienced, and Rondale Moore as their prime vast receivers — plus Zach Ertz at tight finish. That is a passing recreation arrange for Kyler Murray to succeed. Murray has a brand new contract — and he’ll have one thing to show.
Successful 12 video games could also be sufficient to win the NFC West, however a playoff victory could be an enormous step in the fitting route for this franchise.
Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs
An getting older offensive line comes again to hang-out Arizona and James Conner takes a step again from his 18-touchdown marketing campaign final yr. The protection will take its lumps with out Chandler Jones and Jordan Hicks and Trayvon Mullen does not clear up the ever-rotating cornerback place.
In fact, there’s the annual Kingsbury late-season collapse — which additionally impacts the play of Murray. One other late-season swoon may imply the top of Kingsbury’s tenure in Arizona.
Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs
The Falcons do not wish to win six video games in 2022. After buying and selling Matt Ryan and consuming $40.525 million in useless cap from his contract, 2022 is a rebuilding yr. Desmond Ridder ought to get his shot to start out sooner fairly than later, however Arthur Smith declared Marcus Mariota the beginning quarterback within the first week of camp.
Mariota is the bridge quarterback for the larger prize in 2023, until Ridder builds off his sturdy preseason and carries this offense to some wins. Drake London additionally turns into a game-changer in Yr 1. Atlanta will want its offense to play at a excessive degree to win some video games.
Flooring: 2-15, miss playoffs
If the Falcons win two video games, they’re going to be in prime place for the No. 1 decide in 2023. Their offensive line has stable gamers in Jake Matthews and Chris Lindstrom, but is without doubt one of the worst items in soccer. The defensive position is younger and can closely depend on Grady Jarrett to be competent.
In fact, the quarterback scenario is not nice. It is a dangerous soccer workforce, constructing towards the longer term. Atlanta is doing the fitting factor in rebuilding the franchise.
Ceiling: 13-4, win AFC Championship
The Ravens do have a proficient roster, as they displayed final season in having the AFC’s greatest document heading into December regardless of over a dozen gamers on injured reserve. They did not win a recreation after that as Lamar Jackson’s ankle damage was the ultimate straw in stopping Baltimore from reaching the playoffs for the fourth straight yr.
Jackson is enjoying with home cash relating to his contract scenario, decided to show he is value each penny. The offense is tailored for Jackson to succeed working the soccer, again to the system that aided him in main the league in landing passes and successful MVP honors in 2019. J.Ok. Dobbins can also be again, a significant enhance for the bottom recreation.
Mike MacDonald has the protection set for a significant turnaround and a revamped secondary, with Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey again on the sphere, ought to have Baltimore again towards the highest of the AFC North in 2022.
The Ravens are contenders within the AFC.
Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs
Even when Jackson suffers an damage, the Ravens needs to be superb on offense with Tyler Huntley. “Tremendous” is not ok in a loaded convention. The Ravens want Jackson on the sphere and enjoying towards MVP degree each week, related towards how he was within the first month of final season.
The vast receiver corps, exterior of Rashod Bateman, is a priority and will considerably harm Baltimore by means of a 17-game season, even when the Ravens are stacked at tight finish. The Ravens additionally want the All-Professional model of Ronnie Stanley again to maintain the offense at a excessive degree and Gus Edwards wholesome for the stretch run.
Once more, Baltimore is an efficient workforce, even with the evident weaknesses. Nevertheless, the Ravens really want to get a deal achieved with Jackson.
Ceiling: 14-3, win Tremendous Bowl
The Payments are the most effective groups within the NFL, set as much as win the AFC and advance to their first Tremendous Bowl for the reason that 1993 season. Josh Allen is without doubt one of the greatest quarterbacks in soccer with a loaded vast receiver corps that includes Stefon Diggs, Gabe Davis, Isaiah McKenzie, and Khalil Shakir. Good luck stopping that group and Dawson Knox at tight finish. The Payments are going to attain numerous factors.
The protection introduced in Von Miller, who proved he is nonetheless the most effective edge rushers within the NFL along with his unbelievable postseason run with the Rams. Daquan Jones and Ed Oliver are glorious on the inside, because the defensive position will arrange an already proficient secondary with Tre’Davious White (presently on PUP), Jordan Poyer, and Micah Hyde. The linebackers are very underrated as nicely (keep in mind this was the No. 1 protection final yr).
Buffalo’s Tremendous Bowl window is now. The Payments are ok to bang the door down and win all of it.
Flooring: 11-6, lose in divisional spherical
There aren’t many holes on the Payments that can value them a playoff spot. Cornerback may very well be a difficulty if White does not come again till later within the season, however the Payments’ greatest gap is at guard. Ryan Bates needs to be superb on the spot, however how Rodger Saffold handles the grind of a 17-game season shall be very important (he’s 34 and injured his ribs in a automotive accident in July).
Devin Singletary will want the blocking up entrance to proceed the sturdy end he had final yr. The Payments will want Singletary to be extra constant, particularly within the shut video games. Buffalo went 0-6 in one-score video games final yr, so the Payments should be taught to win the shut ones in the event that they wish to be champions.
This workforce goes to win numerous video games, however a quick begin is required. The Payments have to ensure the highway by means of the AFC playoffs goes by means of Buffalo.
Ceiling: 9-8, playoff berth
Buying Baker Mayfield was the perfect transfer Carolina may make as a way to have an opportunity on the postseason. The Panthers did have the the No. 2-ranked protection in 2021 — and that was with out Jaycee Horn the vast majority of the season. Carolina had horrible quarterback play with Sam Darnold and Cam Newton, which impeded its capacity to compete for wins late within the season.
Mayfield does not must be enjoying at a Professional Bowl degree, however has to handle the sport and make the essential throws. A wholesome Christian McCaffrey will assist in addition to Carolina was 4-3 when McCaffrey performed final season.
The NFC South is not a frightening gauntlet as in earlier seasons. There’s a chance for Carolina to steal some wins and go to the playoffs.
Flooring: 6-11, miss playoffs
The Panthers may nonetheless have McCaffrey miss important time (he has solely performed in 10 video games over the past two years), actually hindering what Carolina needs to do with its offense. That additionally makes Mayfield’s job harder in a make-or-break yr as a beginning quarterback.
Yetur Gross-Matos should step up with the departure of Haason Reddick and Ikem Ekwonu has to determine methods to cross defend on the subsequent degree. The offensive line must be higher (on paper the unit is best) than 2021 or Mayfield shall be working for his life. A big damage to Mayfield derails Carolina’s playoff possibilities.
Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs
The Bears are in Yr 1 of a rebuild with Matt Eberflus, so this franchise goes to take its lumps. If Justin Fields can take an enormous step below offensive coordinator Luke Getsy, the rebuild will not be as painful. Fields has the expertise to be a big-time quarterback within the league, however poor offensive ideas and a horrible offensive line doomed his rookie yr.
The offensive line is not a lot better, but there’s promise among the many tackles. Chicago’s protection nonetheless has Roquan Smith and Robert Quinn after it appeared each may have been on their means out, in order that’s a step in the fitting route for a unit that wants its playmakers on the sphere.
Chicago has a methods to go, however Fields’ improvement is value watching this yr.
Flooring: 4-13, miss playoffs
The offensive and defensive strains proceed to battle and soccer is received within the trenches. There is not a lot to brag about up entrance for the Bears, which may considerably harm Fields’ potential. If Fields struggles mightily once more in Yr 2, the dearth of expertise round him will play a significant component.
Cincinnati Bengals (2021 document: 10-7)
Ceiling: 13-4, win Tremendous Bowl
The Bengals shocked the NFL final season by successful the AFC North and advancing to the Tremendous Bowl, having one of many largest odds to achieve the championship recreation within the fashionable period. Joe Burrow is already the most effective quarterbacks within the recreation and has a dynamic offense with a considerably improved offensive line from final yr.
Ja’Marr Chase goes to be even higher and it is already arduous to comprise Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd, arguably the perfect vast receiver trio in soccer. Add Joe Mixon to the combo and the Bengals are primed to attain numerous factors.
Jessie Bates ending his holdout was an enormous improvement for a protection that already has Trey Hendrickson, Logan Wilson and Sam Hubbard. This protection does not must be elite, simply ok with that explosive offense main the way in which.
Cincinnati confirmed it could possibly compete with any workforce within the AFC and win video games. The Bengals can get again to the Tremendous Bowl with a franchise quarterback like Burrow.
Flooring: 10-7, lose in wild card spherical
Cincinnati will not be shocking groups within the AFC prefer it did final season — and the AFC North is considerably higher. The division shall be a gauntlet with a wholesome Baltimore workforce and Cleveland primed to get again to the playoffs. Pittsburgh can by no means be counted out.
The Bengals should combat by means of the AFC North, however they nonetheless needs to be a playoff workforce within the AFC — even when the convention is loaded. Buffalo and Miami on the schedule may also be powerful, identical with Kansas Metropolis and Tampa Bay. The Bengals shall be getting their opponents’ greatest each week.
The offensive line is considerably improved from final yr and the defensive position can get to the quarterback. If the Bengals fail to achieve expectations, the more durable schedule and gauntlet of the AFC can have so much to do with it.
Ceiling: 11-6, win playoff recreation
Even with out Deshaun Watson for 11 video games, the Browns have a proficient roster throughout the board. They’ve the most effective offensive strains in soccer, excellent for a dynamic dashing assault with Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. Amari Cooper considerably improves the passing recreation and Donovan Peoples-Jones is without doubt one of the best-kept secrets and techniques in soccer.
Led by Myles Garrett and glorious cornerbacks, the Browns’ protection needs to be a top-10 unit. As soon as Cleveland will get Watson again, the Browns could make a run on the AFC North — particularly if they’re .500 or higher by the point he returns.
Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs
Even with a proficient roster, Cleveland misses the playoffs as a result of Jacoby Brissett is not ok to get the job achieved. Is Brissett actually a greater possibility then an injured Baker Mayfield from final yr? The Browns have to make use of the bottom recreation to get off to quick begins and have Brissett handle the sport.
The Browns must be higher at defensive sort out and hope Jadeveon Clowney can repeat the success he had final yr. Even with Peoples-Jones and David Bell, there are nonetheless questions at vast receiver. Brissett has to carry the fort down and preserve the workforce afloat whereas Watson is suspended or the Browns’ playoff hopes shall be passed by Week 13.
Ceiling: 12-5, attain NFC Championship
Going to the playoffs in consecutive seasons has been tough for Dallas lately, not making consecutive playoff appearances since 2006 and 2007. Dallas has the star energy to return to the playoffs with Dak Prescott at quarterback, supported by Micah Parsons, Trevon Diggs, CeeDee Lamb, Zack Martin, and DeMarcus Lawrence.
The Cowboys have a superb defensive position that may get after the quarterback and Parsons is a recreation wrecker. Including Anthony Barr has achieved wonders for Leighton Vander Esch at linebacker and the secondary is already the most effective within the league.
Dallas has a protection that’s playoff-caliber. Add this with Prescott and the Cowboys are ok to repeat as NFC East champions.
Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs
Shedding Tyron Smith till December is brutal on an offensive line that is already changing Connor Williams and La’El Collins. Dallas might flip to 40-year-old Jason Peters or rookie Tyler Smith to solidity the place till Smith returns. Each elevate severe query marks in with the ability to defend Prescott and get the bottom recreation going with Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard.
Can anybody step up at No. 2 receiver whereas Michael Gallup recovers from his ACL damage? The Cowboys do not have numerous depth at receiver with Gallup on the mend and James Washington out. This may very well be a difficulty for Prescott and the No. 1-ranked offense from final season.
The offensive line can doom Dallas. To not point out Mike McCarthy is on the new seat as nicely. This yr may fall means in need of expectations.
Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC West
Russell Wilson is believed to be the lacking piece towards the Broncos competing for division titles and making deep playoff runs each season. Wilson is a winner and might instantly remodel an offense along with his capacity to improvise and make performs down the sphere. The Broncos have the offensive personnel to “Let Russ Cook dinner” and the bottom recreation, in Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon, to enrich him.
Denver addressed its greatest points at quarterback and cross rusher (Randy Gregory), giving the Broncos ammunition to compete within the daunting AFC West. If Wilson returns to his Professional Bowl type, the Broncos will win video games with an offense that may again up a top-10 protection.
Successful the AFC West and returning to the playoffs could be huge for Denver in Wilson’s first yr with the workforce.
Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs
The Broncos must cowl Travis Kelce and Darren Waller 4 instances a yr and have important downside at off-ball linebacker. Gregory should keep on the sphere to make the impression on the defensive position the Broncos are hoping for, particularly with Bradley Chubb enjoying simply seven video games final yr (no sacks).
Tight finish can also be a query mark with Albert Okwuegbunam, a difficulty different groups within the division do not have. Even with Wilson, the Broncos have holes on their roster — holes that must be fastened as a way to win the division. They could be too evident within the proficient AFC West.
Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs
The Lions are heading in the right direction below Dan Campbell, constructing a proficient offense led by glorious vast receivers in Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark, and Jameson Williams. Detroit’s offensive line can also be some of the underrated items within the recreation, pacing the way in which for D’Andre Swift to be an rising star within the league.
Aidan Hutchinson is the proper match for a protection that was one of many worst in soccer final yr. He’ll make life simpler for the secondary whereas Detroit can lastly get after the quarterback constantly. The Lions are on the fitting path, which can showcase itself in 2022.
Flooring: 5-12, miss playoffs
Detroit ought to nonetheless be higher than final season, however the protection wants numerous work — particularly at linebacker. The cross rush needs to be higher with Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, and Charles Harris, however may also must cease the run constantly.
Taking part in within the NFC North ought to assist enhance Detroit’s document, but the Lions nonetheless want important work on protection. Jeff Okudah additionally wants to indicate some indicators he is the shutdown nook the Lions thought they drafted two years in the past. There’s additionally no excuse for Jared Goff both — or Detroit shall be on the lookout for a franchise quarterback subsequent yr.
Ceiling: 13-4, win Tremendous Bowl
So long as the Packers have Aaron Rodgers, they will be competing for Tremendous Bowl titles. The final three seasons have seen disappointing finishes, but Rodgers has been arguably the perfect participant within the recreation whereas carrying the offense to victory. Even with out Davante Adams, who’s to say Rodgers cannot do it once more?
The Packers have a top-10 protection with Jaire Alexander again at cornerback. De’Vondre Campbell is without doubt one of the underrated linebackers within the recreation and Kenny Clark is a drive at nostril sort out. That protection could be the distinction within the NFC North and earn the Packers one of many prime seeds within the convention.
Inexperienced Bay can win video games within the trenches, another excuse why the Packers can have double-digit wins in 2022. All Rodgers must do is train the playoff demons and get again to the Tremendous Bowl. The Packers are a Tremendous Bowl contender.
Flooring: 11-6, lose in divisional spherical
The identical previous story can apply to the Packers. Rodgers performs at an MVP degree, however places up a clunker within the playoffs. If that is the case in 2022, the younger vast receivers did not develop sufficient. Allen Lazard is the No. 1 wideout and Randall Cobb is Rodgers’ safety blanket.
One of many Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, or Amari Rodgers has to step up for Rodgers to get again to the Tremendous Bowl. Having David Bakhtiari again to 100% well being would considerably assist the offensive line as nicely.
The Packers must train these playoff demons, or else 2022 shall be one other nice yr that ends in disappointment.
Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs
The Texans are nonetheless in a rebuild and are trending in the fitting route. Davis Mills could also be a diamond within the tough at quarterback, successful video games and enjoying nicely regardless of the dearth of vast receivers at his disposal. The Texans plugged some holes on protection with Derek Stingley Jr. at cornerback, Kenyon Inexperienced at guard, Dameon Pierce at working again and Jalen Pitre at security — all promising draft picks.
This Texans workforce overachieved with the worst roster within the NFL final yr, and the franchise has considerably improved the expertise at key positions with precise excessive draft picks to make use of. This rebuild is prolonged, however the Texans can win some video games within the AFC South.
Flooring: 3-14, miss playoffs
Mills takes a big step within the fallacious route and the Texans are again to sq. one looking for a franchise quarterback. The Texans do not have a defensive position to put in writing house about, which can make life very tough for the secondary. This was one of many worst defenses within the NFL final season, a unit Lovie Smith has to enhance.
This season may very well be ugly in Houston on either side of the ball. Mills additionally wants extra gamers than Brandin Cooks to throw to. Nico Collins and Tyler Johnson must step up.
Ceiling: 11-6, win AFC South
The Colts ought to win the AFC South with the perfect roster within the division. Matt Ryan nonetheless has some good years left within the tank and he’ll be working a fast-paced offense set to distribute the ball to Jonathan Taylor, Nyheim Hines, Michael Pittman and Alec Pierce. The offensive line can also be excellent, which Ryan hasn’t skilled in years with Atlanta.
Yannick Ngakoue and DeForest Buckner ought to thrive in Gus Bradley’s protection, which considerably helps Shaquille Leonard make performs. The secondary can also be set as much as shut down passing video games with Stephon Gilmore and Kenny Moore main the way in which, a part of a really deep protection.
In a weak AFC South, the Colts have probably the most expertise. They need to win the division and attain the playoffs.
Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs
The Colts had been a playoff workforce final yr earlier than collapsing on the finish of the season. If the Colts collapse once more, will probably be due to the passing recreation. Indianapolis is hyping up Parris Campbell and Ashton Dulin a bit an excessive amount of, elevating some crimson flags in regards to the depth at vast receiver.
What if Ryan’s greatest days are lengthy behind him? Indianapolis is again to sq. one at quarterback, even when the place is deep. The Colts should depend on Taylor to win video games once more, however they must be extra balanced as a way to win the division.
Indianapolis is an efficient workforce, however it is time to change into a contender.
Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs
Doug Pederson has proven he can overachieve with a franchise in Yr 1 — and that may very well be the case once more in Jacksonville. Trevor Lawrence is getting a reset on his rookie yr, studying a West Coast-based offense that caters to his strengths below Pederson. The Jaguars improved the offensive line and gave Lawrence pass-catching upgrades in Christian Kirk and Evan Engram. Having Travis Etienne again considerably helps the passing recreation, too.
Jacksonville revamped the protection by happening a free agent-spending spree and utilizing two first-round picks on that facet of the ball with Travon Walker and Devin Lloyd. The secondary can also be higher with Darious Williams serving to out a younger group.
The expertise is best in Jacksonville and the teaching is considerably higher. The event of Lawrence is why Jacksonville needs to be excited.
Flooring: 5-12, miss playoffs
The Jaguars have questions with their cross rush as Josh Allen is the one confirmed asset who can get to the quarterback. Jacksonville nonetheless must considerably enhance the offensive line, hindering Lawrence’s capacity to throw the ball downfield.
Till the Jaguars considerably enhance within the trenches, the progress towards constructing a contender shall be stagnated. Jacksonville could also be a yr away.
Ceiling: 13-4, win Tremendous Bowl
The Chiefs have Andy Reid as their head coach and Patrick Mahomes at quarterback. They’ve received 12 video games and superior to the convention championship recreation in yearly the pair have been collectively. Why aren’t the Chiefs the workforce to beat within the AFC with this duo?
Shedding Tyreek Hill is a big loss, however the Chiefs are deeper at vast receiver than final yr with JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Mecole Hardman, and Skyy Moore. Additionally they have Travis Kelce at tight finish — in case followers forgot. The offensive line is a top-10 unit as nicely. Kansas Metropolis will rating factors.
The protection has additionally improved with George Karlaftis aiding Frank Clark and Chris Jones — who’s again at defensive sort out. Nick Bolton is a rising star and Trent McDuffie has numerous potential at cornerback. This unit appears ready to offer the offense brief fields by creating turnovers.
The Chiefs are proficient as soon as once more. Seeing them play in February would not be a shock.
Flooring: 10-7, lose in divisional spherical
Kansas Metropolis has some points to determine at cornerback and working again, particularly who strains up reverse McDuffie. Rashad Fenton is the favourite to line up on the different cornerback slot, however what if he struggles? The Chiefs should add a cornerback midseason, which is not good given the quarterback play within the division.
Working again may also must be settled between Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Isiah Pacheco and Ronald Jones. Who emerges because the No. 1 working again shall be a storyline all through the season.
The Chiefs do have holes that may preserve them out of Tremendous Bowl rivalry — and the AFC West will play a task in that. Kansas Metropolis remains to be — at worst — a playoff workforce.
Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC West
The Raiders may have the sport’s greatest quarterback-receiver mixture in Derek Carr and Davante Adams, a No. 1 receiver who can change the course of the sport. Adams is arguably probably the most harmful participant within the division, making the high-powered Raiders offense a drive to be reckoned with.
Hunter Renfrow and Darren Waller may also be catching passes from Carr, who has been one of many underrated quarterbacks within the recreation for years. The protection may also be getting after the passer with the addition of Chandler Jones to release Maxx Crosby. The cross rush may additionally assist a younger secondary with Tre’von Moehrig and the offseason acquisition of Rock Ya-Sin.
There’s expertise on the Raiders, sufficient to win the division and a playoff recreation. One other workforce that can rating factors in a loaded AFC.
Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs
Las Vegas has the makings of a “boom-or-bust” workforce. The offensive line must develop to ensure that the massive performs to occur. Kolton Miller is a confirmed sort out, but there’s uncertainty on the opposite facet of the road. Josh Jacobs additionally needs to be extra constant now that the No. 1 again job is his.
On protection, the cross rush is superb however the defensive inside may considerably impression the Raiders’ capacity to cease the run. If the Raiders cannot shore up the run protection, they’re going to battle to constantly win within the AFC. Fortuitously, Patrick Graham is their defensive coordinator.
Ceiling: 13-4, win AFC Championship
The Chargers are constructed to make a deep playoff run this season, particularly with a franchise quarterback like Justin Herbert on a rookie contract. Herbert requested the Chargers to maintain Mike Williams, which the franchise did. Additionally they added Gerald Everett to an already explosive offense, whereas shoring up the offensive line with first-round decide Zion Johnson.
The numerous modifications had been on protection, spending huge cash on J.C. Jackson, Austin Johnson and Sebastian Joseph-Day whereas buying and selling for Khalil Mack to bolster the cross rush. One of many worst defenses within the NFL is now a power.
The Chargers have the most effective rosters within the NFL — and have a top-five quarterback in Herbert. They’re Tremendous Bowl contenders.
Flooring: 10-7, lose in wild card spherical
Shedding Kyzir White was an enormous blow at linebacker, and the Chargers have not discovered somebody to adequately substitute him. Kenneth Murray has been disappointing within the two years he is been with the Chargers, as Drue Tranquill seems in line to be the workforce’s greatest linebacker.
The Chargers are additionally on the lookout for a No. 2 working again behind Austin Ekeler, including Sony Michel this week. Joshua Kelley and Isaiah Spiller may nonetheless fill that void, however there are query marks on the place. The Chargers may very well be very one-dimensional.
Will Brandon Staley’s gambles on fourth down repay? That value the Chargers a playoff spot final yr and he is not altering. Let’s have a look at how they work with a greater roster intact.
Los Angeles Rams (2021 document: 12-5)
Ceiling: 13-4, win Tremendous Bowl
By some means, the Tremendous Bowl champions bought higher. The Rams added Allen Robinson in free company, making the offense much more explosive than the one which carried them to a title final yr. Matthew Stafford is in Sean McVay’s system for an additional yr, getting glorious safety up entrance. Let’s not neglect Cooper Kupp is again after arguably the best yr for a large receiver ever.
The Rams’ protection added Bobby Wagner at linebacker pairing him with Aaron Donald. Troy Hill can also be again from damage, supplying important assist in the secondary for Jalen Ramsey.
The Rams are loaded with star energy and are the perfect workforce within the NFC getting into the yr. Los Angeles has a good chance to repeat.
Flooring: 11-6, lose in divisional spherical
If the Rams do not repeat, the effectiveness of Cam Akers will play a task. Akers does not look like the explosive participant since his Achilles damage, sharing the carries between him and Darrell Henderson all through camp. McVay extremely believes in Akers, which can result in overuse of the again — and the Rams’ downfall.
There aren’t many weaknesses on the Rams’ roster and Stafford having a mean season appears implausible in McVay’s offense. Discovering one other cross rusher not named Aaron Donald or Leonard Floyd will assist, too.
Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC East
This all comes right down to how Tua Tagovailoa develops in Mike McDaniel’s offense. The Dolphins improved the offensive line and added Tyreek Hill to an already spectacular vast receiver group with free agent signing Ced Wilson and Jaylen Waddle. Miami goes to be efficient working the ball whereas additionally having a downfield passing recreation, however Tagovailoa is the important thing towards the Dolphins difficult the Payments for the division.
Miami goes to blitz closely, serving to a proficient cornerback group with Byron Jones and Xavien Howard making performs. Emmanuel Ogbah and Christian Wilkins are additionally going to get to the quarterback.
The Dolphins have a proficient roster, ok to win the division. This all comes right down to Tagovailoa making the subsequent step in his improvement.
Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs
There’s numerous strain on Tagovailoa to play at a excessive degree — and he’ll must throw the ball downfield to ensure that the Dolphins’ offense to take off. Miami’s offensive line is best, however will or not it’s ok to guard Tagovailoa constantly? Will Tagovailoa make the identical errors he did when below duress final yr?
Miami is nice sufficient to be a playoff workforce, however the play of Tagovailoa is the distinction between contending within the AFC and lacking the playoffs fully. The Dolphins went “all-in” for his or her quarterback. They will miss the playoffs if Tagovailoa does not enhance.
Ceiling: 11-6, win playoff recreation
The Vikings have the skill-position gamers to compete for the NFC North, as Minnesota has one of many prime vast receiver duos within the convention in Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen. Dalvin Cook dinner is without doubt one of the greatest working backs within the recreation and quarterback Kirk Cousins is nice sufficient to make performs for this workforce.
The Vikings introduced in new coach Kevin O’Connell to make this offense elite and supply stability on the roster. O’Connell would be the distinction between lacking the playoffs and changing into an NFC contender. Minnesota’s protection will definitely assist, beginning with the harmful pass-rushing duo of Za’Darius Smith and Danielle Hunter. Jordan Hicks and Eric Kendricks are additionally a risk at linebacker.
Minnesota is underrated. The Vikings may sneak up on groups within the NFC.
Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs
O’Connell does not make the numerous distinction the Vikings assume in Yr 1. The Vikings have struggled with discovering good offensive linemen for a decade, despite the fact that they invested loads of excessive draft picks to repair the issue.
Brian O’Neill made his first Professional Bowl and Christian Darrisaw has improved at sort out, but the Vikings have loads of competitors on the inside of the road. The offensive line has performed a significant function in Cousins failing to win huge video games in Minnesota. The secondary can also be getting older, too, which is one other query mark on this roster.
The Vikings shall be intriguing all yr.
Ceiling: 10-7, make playoffs
What has Invoice Belichick achieved with the Patriots? A sequence of dangerous draft picks within the first three rounds over the previous three years allowed the Payments and Dolphins to catch as much as the Patriots within the AFC East. Mac Jones does not have a lot to work with at vast receiver, even with New England buying and selling for DeVante Parker. The Patriots have a bunch of No. 2 and No. 3 wideouts, which does not assist rating factors in a proficient division.
Fortunately, New England nonetheless has protection. Matt Judon can cease the run and get strain on the quarterback and will get assist from Christian Barmore in Yr 2. Changing J.C. Jackson shall be powerful, however Belichick has changed nice cornerbacks earlier than. The protection ought to carry New England all year long.
If Jones takes an enormous step in Yr 2, the Patriots needs to be again within the playoffs. Nonetheless tough to see New England competing in a loaded AFC.
Flooring: 6-11, miss playoffs
Having Joe Decide and Matt Patricia play a big function on offense is — one thing. Each coaches may considerably impression the event of Jones, and never in great way. A step again from Jones may put New England towards the cellar of the convention, even when the Patriots depend on their working recreation to maneuver the ball.
The working recreation and a powerful offensive line ought to carry New England, however Jones is the important thing to this yr. Belichick seems to have misplaced some zip on his fastball, however we’ll see.
Ceiling: 11-6, win playoff recreation
Having Jameis Winston wholesome is large for New Orleans, who had a successful document with 4 totally different beginning quarterbacks final yr. Winston has a receiving corps with numerous potential, beginning with Michael Thomas’ well being and Chris Olave being a direct contributor within the passing recreation. Let’s not neglect Alvin Kamara will begin the yr at working again and never on the suspended listing.
The protection shall be carried on the sting by Cameron Jordan, however Marcus Davenport isn’t any slouch in attending to the quarterback. DeMario Davis is pretty much as good of a linebacker as you may discover and Tyrann Mathieu adequately fills the void left behind when Marcus Williams departed. There’s numerous expertise on this protection, and Dennis Allen remains to be working the present.
If Winston continues to play like he did final yr pre-injury, the Saints needs to be one of many seven playoff groups within the NFC.
Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs
Can Allen coach? His first stint wasn’t nice, however that was over a decade in the past. Going from Sean Payton to Allen is a big drop-off, one that may’t be ignored.
New Orleans additionally has a significant weak spot on the offensive line, which took an enormous hit with Trevor Penning’s damage. Ryan Ramczyk’s return is very large, however the Saints should hope Cesar Ruiz takes a step up in his play in 2022.
The Saints have a proficient roster and a chance to win video games in a down yr within the NFC South.
Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs
The Giants are anticipated to be dangerous in 2022, because of terrible roster building by former normal supervisor Dave Gettleman — who left them in wage cap hell. Daniel Jones is a lame duck quarterback and Saquon Barkley seems to be on his means out after the yr — regardless of how nicely he performs.
New York is skinny at vast receiver and tight finish, the previous crammed with bloated contracts and minimal manufacturing. There’s hope the Giants are trending in the fitting route with a greater offensive line and a defensive position that includes Azeez Ojulari and Kayvon Thibodeaux. The Giants are starting their rebuild within the trenches, a superb begin towards turning across the franchise.
Flooring: 4-13, miss playoffs
New York considerably lacks depth at linebacker and the secondary, so groups are anticipated to attain numerous factors in opposition to this unit. The offense shall be counting on Jones to sling the ball, which he can do once in a while. New York is worked up about Wan’Dale Robinson, who might must play an enormous function in Yr 1.
Issues will get higher for the Giants. Simply not this yr.
Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs
The Jets are doing all the fitting issues to construct a constant winner. Garrett Wilson has all of the makings of the subsequent star vast receiver and Sauce Gardner has the recipe to be a real difference-maker at cornerback. That is two sturdy constructing blocks in New York, which already has offensive line — even with the Mekhi Becton damage.
Carl Lawson coming again is very large for an underrated defensive position , which is seeking to see manufacturing from rookie Jermaine Johnson. The secondary is considerably improved with Gardner, D.J. Reed, and LaMarcus Joyner within the fold.
Zach Wilson’s well being is monstrous this yr. The Jets want him to develop to take the huge leap to contender.
Flooring: 4-13, miss playoffs
Wilson struggling to remain on the sphere in Yr 2 will depart the Jets again to sq. one. If Wilson does not keep wholesome and turns the ball over, the Jets can have the identical concern. In a loaded AFC, Wilson has to stay as much as his potential.
The Jets will take their lumps — regardless of a greater roster — in an excellent convention. They will be able to make a run if Wilson improves.
Ceiling: 12-5, win NFC East
The Eagles arguably had the perfect offseason of any NFL workforce. Any gap on their roster, normal supervisor Howie Roseman fastened. The cross rush is considerably higher with Haason Reddick and the return of Brandon Graham and the secondary improved with James Bradberry and Chauncey Gardner-Johnson. The protection needs to be a top-10 unit.
Philadelphia has the perfect offensive line in soccer and considerably improved at vast receiver by buying A.J. Brown. DeVonta Smith is predicted to take a big leap in Yr 2, taking strain off an already good working again rotation to carry out.
The time is now for the Eagles to win the NFC East, particularly with Dallas showing to take a step again. Philadelphia is a shock contender within the NFC.
Flooring: 9-8, lose in wild card spherical
The Eagles’ success is dependent upon the event of Jalen Hurts. Is Hurts the identical one-read quarterback that rolls to his proper? Or does the improved offensive forged translate towards his success throwing to his left and the center of the sphere?
Is the expertise ok for Jonathan Gannon to run the protection the way in which he needs? The Eagles have expertise throughout the board on that facet of the ball, however security remains to be a query mark because the Eagles search for the fitting depth on the place.
This all comes right down to Hurts. If he considerably improves, so do the Eagles.
Ceiling: 10-7, make playoffs
The Steelers have a quarterback scenario to determine, nevertheless it appears if Mitch Trubisky will begin the yr. Pittsburgh has expertise on offense round Trubisky, beginning with Najee Harris at working again and a harmful vast receiver trio of Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool and George Pickens.
The Steelers’ defensive position is arguably the perfect within the NFL with T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward main the way in which. Including Myles Jack will considerably assist the run protection, a unit that will get a training enhance with the arrival of Brian Flores.
Mike Tomlin has by no means had a dropping season for a cause. The Steelers can contend within the AFC North in a transition yr.
Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs
One other workforce the place general efficiency comes right down to quarterback play. Pickett is the higher quarterback than Trubisky, however Pittsburgh needs to offer him extra time to develop. Trubisky should get off to a quick begin or the Pickett period will start sooner fairly than later — which can be good for Pittsburgh.
The offensive line is younger, which is why Trubisky is beginning the yr within the first place. Going through the brutal fronts within the AFC North could also be Pittsburgh’s demise in 2022 until the offensive line improves.
Ceiling: 13-4, win NFC Championship
The 49ers took a significant swing in buying and selling as much as seize Trey Lance. Now it is Lance’s time to take this workforce previous the NFC Championship Recreation. San Francisco received numerous video games with Jimmy Garoppolo at quarterback and have the offensive system to win numerous video games with Lance including one other dimension to the unit.
Deebo Samuel is absolutely good as a Swiss Military knife. Brandon Aiyuk is primed for a breakout yr and George Kittle is without doubt one of the greatest tight ends within the recreation. The 49ers’ protection is constructed to win with Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, getting fixed strain on the quarterback. San Francisco has one of many deepest defensive strains in soccer.
The 49ers are ok to characterize the NFC within the Tremendous Bowl. No quarterback might have extra strain to win than Lance.
Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs
Trent Williams can masks the inside of the offensive line, however the secondary is actually unproven. The 49ers will want Talanoa Hufanga and Tarvarius Moore to change into stable starters at security or groups will surprisingly be capable to cross on DeMeco Ryans’ protection.
Total, the 49ers’ success falls on Lance. If he has issues for an extended stretch, Garoppolo is ready to take his beginning job again. That is very unhealthy for San Francisco, regardless of how nicely Lance and Garoppolo get alongside.
Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs
The Seahawks moved on from Russell Wilson and recouped a boatload of draft capital in consequence. Regardless of the expertise at vast receiver, the Seahawks are in a rebuilding yr. Geno Smith is not the long-term reply at quarterback, however Seattle can win video games because of Rashaad Penny, Tyler Lockett, and DK Metcalf as constructing blocks on a workforce in transition.
Whether or not the Seahawks wish to win video games is the query. Seattle is a quarterback away from competing for wins once more.
Flooring: 3-14, miss playoffs
Seattle has arguably the worst offensive line in soccer, so Smith shall be working for his life all year long. The Seahawks should management possession with the bottom recreation, in order that they higher hope Penny stays wholesome.
The protection will battle getting strain off the sting and the cornerback scenario leaves so much to be desired. Groups will be capable to throw the ball on Seattle — and the Seahawks do not have the quarterback play to maintain up in a shootout.
This may very well be a tough yr for Seattle, nevertheless it was anticipated to be.
Ceiling: 13-4, win Tremendous Bowl
Regardless what is going on on with Tom Brady, he is nonetheless the most effective quarterbacks within the NFL at age 45 and the Buccaneers are loaded at vast receiver. Todd Bowles assembled a superb protection that is constructed to get after the quarterback with Akiem Hicks within the combine. Devin White and Lavonte David will play a significant function within the Buccaneers’ protection giving a high-powered offense each alternative to attain.
Tampa Bay goes to attain numerous factors. Getting Chris Godwin again by the beginning of the season will make the passing recreation even higher, particularly with Mike Evans, Russell gage and Julio Jones within the combine.
With Brady at quarterback, it is “Tremendous Bowl or bust” for Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers are ok to win all of it.
Flooring: 11-6, lose in divisional spherical
The inside of the offensive line is a significant concern for Tampa Bay, particularly with Brady not being probably the most cellular quarterback. Brady should eliminate the ball shortly, taking away the massive performs from the offense.
If Tampa Bay does not discover a resolution for the offensive line points, will probably be arduous to see the Buccaneers beat the Rams, 49ers and Packers in a playoff recreation. Possibly even the Cowboys and Eagles.
Ceiling: 11-6, win AFC South
Getting Derrick Henry again to full well being is very large for the Titans, particularly with the offseason lack of A.J. Brown considerably hurting the downfield passing recreation. Ryan Tannehill can nonetheless ignite an offense with Robert Woods as a recreation supervisor, however the success of the Titans rolls by means of Henry.
Shedding Harold Landry is critical for a protection constructed to get after the quarterback, which may value the Titans the division. Tennessee nonetheless has Jeffery Simmons and an underrated secondary that may maintain groups to below 25 factors, however will the Titans be capable to sustain with opponents?
Henry can carry Tennessee to a division title in a weak AFC South. He has to play all 17 video games.
Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs
The Titans are nonetheless good and play arduous for Mike Vrabel, nevertheless it’s arduous to beat the Landry loss together with a poor offensive line. Taylor Lewan returning to his Professional Bowl type is paramount.
Who’s Tannehill going to throw the ball to? Treylon Burks needs to be a direct contributor for this workforce to compete in a loaded AFC, nevertheless it’s arduous to assume the Titans can have a significant drop off. They will be aggressive all yr, regardless of the challenges forward.
Ceiling: 10-7, make playoffs
The Commanders may very well be a shock playoff workforce within the NFC, particularly if Carson Wentz can eradicate the inconsistent quarterback play that is plagued him for the reason that ACL damage 5 years in the past. Wentz is the perfect quarterback Terry McLaurin has ever had and the Commanders have a dynamic vast receiver group with him, Curtis Samuel and rookie Jahan Dotson. Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic complement one another nicely at working again.
Even with out Chase Younger to start out the yr, the defensive position needs to be considerably higher than final yr. Montez Sweat is without doubt one of the recreation’s underrated cross rushers and Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen are forces on the inside. The Commanders had an excellent protection two years in the past and will repeat that success with their entrance 4.
Do not be shocked if Washington is a playoff workforce, particularly if Wentz performs nicely.
Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs
The Commanders are skinny at linebacker, bringing Jon Bostic again in an try and solidify that group. There is not a lot depth at cornerback and security, both, which is critical for a protection that can rely closely on pressuring the quarterback.
Logan Thomas returning at tight finish shall be huge, one other place that’s considerably skinny. There are many holes on this roster, sufficient to maintain Washington out of competing for the NFC East.
