Arizona Cardinals

2023 Record: 4-13

While the Cardinals may not be the headline grabbers in 2024, they certainly have intriguing elements that warrant attention. One such standout is Marvin Harrison, a product of Ohio State, Harrison Jr. is poised to make an immediate and significant contribution to the Cardinals’ offense. However, the team’s defense is a cause for concern, having lost several key players. It’s a challenge that will require strategic adjustments and perhaps some new acquisitions. The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Kyler Murray, who will need to channel his previous form to steer the team towards playoff contention. Despite his potential, it seems unlikely that this will be the year for a playoff run. While the Cardinals may not be strong contenders for the 2024-25 playoffs, they could still spring some surprises. Keep an eye out for potential “upset” games against their opponents - these could offer interesting betting opportunities. But as far as playoff aspirations go, it might be best to temper expectations for Arizona this season. While not exactly a failure of a season with my 7-10 record prediction, there is still room for improvement. This very well could be the last season in Glendale for Murray. Perhaps, Shedeur Sanders may be making his way towards the Grand Canyon State?

Projection: 7-10

Indianapolis Colts

2023 Record: 9-8

Man, what a strange season for the Colts in 2023. After starting their rookie sensation, Anthony Richardson, an unfortunate injury occured in Week 5 that took him out for the season. Not to mention he went into concussion protocol weeks prior. While starting Gardnew Minshew as replacement, the Colts almost won the division with him under center. Again, not to mention the fact they were without pro-bowler Jonathan Taylor. Meanwhile, Indianapolis has a closet of weapons stashed away for a total onslaught on their opponent. We all know about Michael Pittman, but how about Josh Downs? Or Adonai Mitchell? Anthony Richardson has plenty of options for success. Let's talk defense. The Colts definitely have problems—for the other team. Kwity Paye, Laiatu Latu, DeForest Buckner...Why is nobody talking about this defense? Indianapolis very much could dismantle an offense easily. If Anthony Richardson stays mobile, Jonathan Taylor healthy, and the defense stops high-functioning offenses, well, the Colts may be looking at a 2025 AFC South Division title. But if Richardson plays terribly, this team will not be looking up. I feel they land in the middle.

Projection: 7-10

New England Patriots

2023 Record: 4-13

This team is about as rock bottom as you get get. Nobody really expects them to be successful with Bill Belichick leaving the organization. With that being said, Jarod Mayo will serve as a viable replacement. At what cost? Why did the Patriots draft Drake Maye? Will he start? No. Jacoby Brissett will get the gig. It's interesting that the Patriots went back to Brissett after signing him years ago. I remember his first game on the Patriots while Tom Brady was injured. Let's just say, Jacoby probably tries his hardest to forget that game. Now, that was years ago. Times are different. He's a decent fantasy option at quarterback if you literally have zero options. Speaking of zero options, that's exactly what the Patriots wideout situation looks like. Who is Ja'Lynn Polk? Anybody? Kendrick Bourne? He's about as useful as a BlockBuster membership in the year 2024. Now, Rhamondre Stevenson is a viable back. So is Antonio Gibson...who is BEHIND Stevenson on the depth chart. Let's just pretend for a second the Patriots know what they're doing, maybe Antonio is a 3rd down back or endzone threat? Of course, none of this matters when their pitiful defense will allow 30+ points a game. Score as many touchdowns as you want Antonio, it won't matter. Patriots, take your number one pick next season.

Projection: 3-14

Baltimore Ravens

2023 Record: 13-4

The Ravens had the No. 1 seed in 2024, only to lose to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship game. After winning MVP for the second time, Lamar Jackson looks for revenge in the AFC. What he will find, is probably another failing playoff result for the city of Baltimore. It's not his fault. The Ravens had a goof draft, but really nothing has changed. They lost a pair of backs going to John Harbaugh's team in Los Angeles, but that does not matter to anybody after Baltimore signed Derrick Henry. The "Baltimore Beast" is what should be trademarked, but with many weapons on this offense, the Ravens very well may find themselves in a good future. There's not much to say about the Ravens defense besides the fact that they are still scary as usual. If everything stays up for Baltimore, maybe they make the Super Bowl? No. It won't happen.

Projection: 11-6

New York Giants

2023 Record: 6-11

After losing Barkley to their division rival, the Giants are looking down towards 2024. Darren Waller also retired. Malik Nabers will 100% be the best target for Jones in 2024, but it won't really help them much. Their defense isn't terrible. I can see it winning two more games than expected while catching an offense on a bad day. However, the offense is practically non-existent. What confidence does New York have in Daniel Jones? Must not be much, since they were trying to trade up for a top prospect in this year's draft. This also comes after signing Drew Lock to a backup position, something that may not be a bad choice at starting if Jones starts off the year on the wrong foot. With last year's Tommy DeVito experiment, New York has themselves in a strange nightmare. Picking between Jones, DeVito, and Lock is about as terrible as it gets. It's like having the choice of burnt toast, soggy cereal, or rotten eggs for breakfast. Nobody wants to start their day like that.

Projection: 4-13

New York Jets

2023 Record: 7-10

The Jets started the season off on the wrong foot. Literally. All of that hype for nothing. That's what the experts said, at least. This is year 2...really year 1 for Rodgers. Some people think the Jets are going to skyrocket, some think they are going to fall short of what they accomplished last year. I think...people need to accept the fact that Aaron Rodgers is just a Hall of Fame quarterback...one of the better ones to ever exist. The Jets in 2024 have an easy schedule. Rodgers record in the last five years is 48-18. That's good. Really good. In comparison, Patrick Mahomes' record is 61-18. Rodgers will bounce these Jets back into playoff contention. This is the hottest take I am going to say all season. All goes flat if Rodgers goes down. It's not just the Rodgers show, Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson help lead this offense. Mike Williams coming from Los Angeles. The Jets defense is the best in the NFL. Hands down. I will just say this now, expect them in the AFC Championship game.

Projection: 13-4

Seattle Seahawks

2023 Record: 9-8

Despite the Seahawks figuring it out with Geno at center, I think most of the credit will belong to Pete Carroll. I think we will see Geno Smith for what we remember him being. He's not terrible, but he is not exactly a quarterback in tandem with Mahomes, Goff, or even Baker Mayfield. He's below average, but his poise is what wins him games. Seattle just keeps getting better even with Smith at quarterback. Seattle is 1-2 years away from being in a Super Bowl—mark my words. They need some kind of Shedeur Sanders or Quinn Ewers to lead them there. This is with Jaxon Smith-Njigba, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett as wideouts. In my opinion, that may just be the best trio in the NFL. A great running game, Kenneth Walker leads the backfield with Zach Charbonnet behind him. This team is so hard to predict, but I have them at 8-9. They may just have two more games than that just because their offense is electric, but their defense is going to mess them up. It's not a bad defense, it's just not on par with their opponents this year. Maybe Seattle busts into a wild card again, but I don't forsee that this year.

Projection: 8-9

Jacksonville Jaguars

2023 Record: 9-8

I'm going to cut this one short. The Jaguars are projected to be a 7-9 win team this year. I think much less. Trevor Lawrence might want to start researching other cities for his future. The Jaguars aren't a bad team in any sense, they are just met with unforunate cirumstances. Their schedule is bananas. First four weeks, at Miami, home against Cleveland, at Buffalo, then to Houston. The travel between Buffalo and Houston is bonkers enough, but playing those teams back-to-back with a mediocre offense is brutal. There's not a great chance they start the year with more than one win in four games. Later on, they play Chicago, Green Bay, Philadelphia, Detroit, and New York Jets. Tough. Easier games may come with Las Vegas and their division rivals. However, as I aformentioned, the Colts will be a strong team. The Texans are a hot commodity, and Tennessee is in that trial & error phase. I believe the Jaguars may find themselves at a grueling season.

Projection: 5-12

Detroit Lions

2023 Record: 12-5

After an expected successful season in the NFL, the Detroit Lions delivered a massive threat to the rest of the league. Most people will predict that the Lions are a Super Bowl threat for the 2024-25 season. Likewise. However, I do not feel they will be as dominant as they were a year ago. The Lions really have three weapons to throw to and a decent backfield. With the recent success of Sam LaPorta, he will easily be a top tight end this season. Amon-Ra St. Brown leads the team, but Jameson Williams is close behind. The two will make a threat for secondaries everywhere. The problem lies with the quarterback. Jared Goff is 42-36-1 the past five years. While that is a positive record, it isn't by much. If Goff goes down, the Lions have a 5-14 record. Their backup is Hendon Hooker, whom has never played in the NFL coming out of Tennessee. Of the 12 wins that Detroit had, 5 of those came within 7 points from their opponent. Out of those 5, 3 of them were divisional games. With the recent trajectory of the Green Bay Packers, and potential new success in Chicago, the Lions may be pawing at a second consecutive divisional title in 2024.

Projection: 9-8

Minnesota Vikings

2023 Record: 7-10

Let's stay up north and talk about the Vikings. Obviously, Kirk Cousins is out in Atlanta. Welcome Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy to Minnesota. Darnold's record is 18-23 since 2020. His career record is 29-38. I don't imagine the Vikings keep him in the huddle longer than 6 weeks—their bye week. However, a revenge game for Darnold comes in Week 5 against the New York Jets. If I'm Minnesota, and I start the season 2-3, I am keeping Darnold out there for one more game for something to prove against my old team. Having Sam Darnold to start may be the best option right now for Minnesota. The Vikings still have tons of talent. You can't have a tank season with players like Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, Dalton Risner, and even Aaron Jones. The Vikings will be in more games than people think. Their schedule is ugly, but there are winnable games I forsee such as Arizona, Tennessee, Seattle, Atlanta, and Chicago. I am not saying they win all these games, but do not expect the Vikings to go down without fighting.

Projection: 8-9

Kansas City Chiefs

2023 Record: 11-6

The Chiefs are obviously a dynasty. With Mahomes and Taylor Swift's boyfriend, the Chiefs will ultimately be a top threat again. Their other receivers poses a question though. Xavier Worthy is a small target, but he is fast enough to break away in similar fashion to Tyreek Hill a few seasons ago. Marquise Brown was a great acquisition this offseason, but his talent has fallen short of success in recent seasons. There are tons of questions with the defense, but the offense is so powerful that it will not really matter much to anybody. Expect the Chiefs to be back where they were last year.

Projection: 13-4

Pittsburgh Steelers

2023 Record: 9-8

Why did Pittsburgh let go of Dionate Johnson? Oh well. George Pickens will be the new No. 1 in Pittsburgh. He can hold on to that ball like no tomorrow, probably one of the best in the league and people will soon realize this. Signing Van Jefferson was an interesting choice considering who was still available at the time, but this confirms my theory of their double tight end offense and fast-paced wideout scheme. Pat Freiermuth & Darnell Washington is an absolutely crushing duo of tight ends to have on one team. I wouldn't be surprise to see a struggling Pittsburgh team down the strech trading Pat to have Darnell lead their offense. I also do not expect Pittsburgh to be a failing team. Remember Kenny Pickett? It doesn't matter if you say yes or no, he's not even a starting quarterback anymore. He was trade to Philadelphia. Now the quarterback room looks like Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Wilson, coming off a historically bad tenure in Denver, will be the starting quarterback this fall. It's kind of hard to trust someone with a bad repuation as he created for himself. Trading with Chicago for Justin Fields was interesting as well. Not only were they guaranteeing his backup position, they even questioned whether he could be their kick returner. What? What on Earth are they doing in Pittsburgh? Mike Tomlin hasn't had a losing season in his career. That's what I'm sticking with. All the questions, all the "hype". I think they can sneak into a wild card position, if other teams struggle worse than Pittsburgh. Who knows, maybe the Steelers will be the best team in the AFC North this year. I can tell you this much, their season is easy, besides their divisional opponents.

Projection: 10-7

Philadelphia Eagles

2023 Record: 11-6

What a collapse for the Eagles in 2023. I mean losing to Baker Mayfield in the playoffs, after an 11-1 season start. No Eagles were caught flying that day. However, signs point up for this team. The defense is back with Vic Fangio and basically Georgia's former Dline. Losing Jason Kelce is a huge blow, but protention is still there for Hurts...or Pickett. Trading for Kenny Pickett was strange, but considering he was not happy in Pittsburgh and grew up an Eagles fan, it makes sense. There really isn't much for me to say about the Eagles. The NFC North hasn't had a repeat champ in quite a few years, so I am automatically assuming the Cowboys will not win the title. Considering the lack of talent with the Giants and the Commanders, I give this to the Eagles. Following up on that terrible ending to a great season is a must for Philadelphia. Especically the fans. Seriously, people will get hurt if that happens again. Santa Claus might skip the city of Brotherly Love this year considering his last visit didn't go so well for him. Give me the Eagles, winning the East again.

Projection: 12-5

Cleveland Browns

2023 Record: 11-6

The Browns had a typical season for what they had on their roster & staff last season. Everyone knows that Jim Schwartz is that guy for defense. They still have massive amounts of talent on their field. Za'Darius Smith, Dalvin Tomlinson, Shelby Harris, Myles Garrett, Devin Bush, Jordan Hicks, Greg Newsome... It's really insane how talented this defense is. It without a doubt will run in tandem with the Jets' defense this year. This is a scary defensive line, and a line that is certainly capable of beating quarterbacks like Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts. I really don't want to jinx anything for Cleveland, but their opening stretch looks like: Dallas, Jacksonville, New York Giants, Raiders, Commanders, then Eagles. There are winnable games there. The Cleveland Browns will struggle on offense based on Deshaun Watson's play history. I imagine this team being a top team by the end of the year, but I can't see them getting past Pittsburgh or Cincinnati..

Projection: 9-8

Los Angeles Chargers

2023 Record: 5-12

After a disappointing season for the Chargers last year, all hype returns with Jim Harbaugh coming off a National Championship victory to coach LA in 2024. Expectations are high, and likely will be met. Eventually. I don't think the Chargers have what it takes to make a playoff appearance this year. Certainly, things can't get worse than 5-12. But after trading away Keenan Allen to Chicago and Mike Williams to New York; losing Austin Ekeler to Washington, it's kind of hard to look highly of a team. Their backfield consists of Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins, both of whom last played in Baltimore—Jim's brother's team. Maybe some family dinners sparked the signing of those two injury prone runningbacks. Anyway, Justin Herbert is probably up at night wondering who will catch his balls. We have Ladd McConkey, DJ Chark, and Josh Palmer. Chark has a decent resume, but Ladd McConkey is a rookie. He is highly drafted in fantasy mock drafts, so maybe the people know something I don't. I don't believe he will be terrible, but I am not imagining him to be on par with what they had before. The Chargers defense is lacking, too. I just don't see this being a success for Los Angeles. My projected record is based on the fact that JK Scott—their kicker—will absolutely drill game winning field goals. So really, they are again a 4-5 win team.

Projection: 7-10

Carolina Panthers

2023 Record: 2-15

Not a good start for Bryce Young, but what can you expect from the kid's first season? Well, apparently it is better to be drafted No. 2 overall than No. 1. I think the Panthers have a lot of work to take care of in a busy-ish NFC South division. Of their schedule, some of the teams they play are the Eagles, Chiefs, Cowboys, Saints, Bengals, and Bears. I think all of those besides Chicago could be losses. Their receiver room is a lot better with Dionate Johnson and Xavier Legette, but Bryce Young will be itching to score with a terrible defense. Derrick Brown and Jaycee Horn will likely be traded before the deadline. I think Carolina doubles their win total from last year. Things are pointing up, they just need more weapons on defense.

Projection: 4-13

Tennessee Titans

2023 Record: 6-11

I think this Tennessee offense could be slept on, depending how Will Levis shapes up. He really sucked last year.. Unfortunately, DeAndre Hopkins will miss 4-6 weeks with his knee. On the bright side, the Titans traded for Calvin Ridley earlier this offseason. Now their room consists of Hopkins, Ridley, Treylon Burks, Tyler Boyd, and Westbrook-Ikhine. Tony Pollard comes from Dallas to Music City to do wonders for Tennessee's run game. This is all assuming Will Levis isn't a bag of bricks like last season. Tennessee's schedule isn't easy, so this may be a turd of a season for Nashville. But, things are looking up. Like I said, it all depends on Levis.

Projection: 5-12

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2023 Record: 9-8

After a surprising win at home against the Eagles in the NFC Wild Card game, the Buccaneers probably peaked at that moment. Sorry, Bucs fans, but I am not feeling you this year. Your team is basically the same with a few depth additions this offseason. With this being said, 9-8 is what Tampa Bay accomplished with a tough schedule with those wins coming from teams that didn't even sniff the playoffs—exception Green Bay Packers. Now, with that same team, you want to play the Ravens, 49ers, Eagles, Cowboys, Lions, and a better Raiders team? Forget about it! You can have all the Mike Evans you want, it isn't going to be enough. Baker Mayfield barely survived this season, let alone another one. I imagine this is Baker's last time around in Tampa. I am not sure how the NFC South will play out, and I can definitely be wrong here, but I think the Buccaneers have a failure of a season.

Projection: 8-9

Chicago Bears

2023 Record: 7-10

Last year, the Bears didn't win until Week 5. Like I predicted, the Bears would be sniffing a wild card spot near their bye. Unfortunately, they dropped the ball against Cleveland in Week 15 by 3 points. If they would have won that game, they would have finished 8-9 after starting 0-4. That isn't exactly common on the NFL's extensive history. Now, the Bears won't be so lucky this year. Their schedule isn't as easy towards the end of the season like it was prior. Starting from Thanksgiving, the Bears play Detroit, San Francisco, Minnesota, Detroit again, Seattle, and then Green Bay. The beginning 6 games before their bye, Chicago will see Tennessee, Houston, Indy, LA Rams, Panthers, and the Jaguars. Beginning stretch, I say 4-2. The end stretch, 1-5, assuming the Lions sweep the Bears. Yeah, even with No. 1 pick Caleb Williams and all the great signings they had this offseason such as D'Andre Swift, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze, I still think the Bears will struggle. They don't have a bad team at all, but I think their schedule will get the best of the Windy City. Now with that being said, I always predict the Bears catastrophically wrong. Since I am so wrong about the Bears, I will predict a tie against the Washington Commanders.

Projection: 6-10-1

Houston Texans

2023 Record: 10-7

Houston surprised everyone last season, including me. I was not expecting C.J. Stroud to do what he did. Now that the world has seen it, so have the NFL players this offseason. The Texans have acquired Joe Mixon, Stefon Diggs, and Danielle Hunter. They went from "who cares" to "I can't wait for this Sunday Night Texans game" in one season. Truly, like I said before, the AFC South is a scary division. I forsee THREE teams practically making the playoffs. I think the Texans have another chance to win the division title. But beyond that, this team just hasn't proved enough to make it. Having these players does not necessarily mean you'll win right away. They have had almost zero time together. This could mean trouble for Stroud.

Projection: 10-7

Dallas Cowboys

2023 Record: 12-5

Is it their year? Of course it is! Just ask any Cowboys fan! I give props to Cowboys fans, everywhere. Not only do you watch the games, but you're disappointed with every outcome regardless even if you win. If I want to watch TV and be disappointed, I just put on CNN. But for you guys, you just have to make the playoffs. That's true loyalty. Speaking of loyalty, did you know how loyal your quarterback is? Dak Prescott said himself he's "..not naive to the fact that I could play somewhere else." Be careful what you wish for, Dak, you may find yourself in a better situation. Dak's determination for success as a Cowboy is missing! Speaking of missing, has anybody seen the rest of Ezekiel Elliott's jersey? It seems to not exist. Why did they sign this clown back? Was Dak tired of being the only mistake in the locker room? Now, I can't give the Cowboys too much hate, because their secondary is out of this world talented. Micah Parsons, DaRon Bland, and Trevon Diggs is back. Their defense is what's going to keep them in contention for the season. It's going to be what Dak needs to get his allowance from Jerry Jones. They will not win the division, and if they do, I will delete this website for one year. 9-8 season.

Projection: 9-8

Miami Dolphins

2023 Record: 11-6

The 2024 Miami Dolphins are an interesting squad. With Tua being signed for more than 5 years, the Dolphins seem to want him to stick around for the long haul. Now with Odell beckham Jr. joining south Florida, he joins Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Raheem Mostert on offense. A speedy fast offense, I am not sure if they will outrun divisional opponents. Now with New York having Aaron Rodgers for hopefully the full season, it seems as if these two teams will battle it out for the division now that the Patriots have collapsed. We can't forget about Buffalo, but more about them later. Miami has a fairly easy defense after succumbing to a 2nd place schedule after the tiebreaker scenario of Buffalo winning the AFC East last season. Because of that, Miami gets to play Indianapolis, Las Vegas, and Cleveland; all tough games. I think Miami will need to have a dominant defense to compete, and they seem to be ranked within the top 10. When the Dolphins have a healthy Tua on the field, they are 34-19 since 2020. Without him, they are a sluggish 5-9. With that being said, I will give two predictions here.

Projection with Tua: 10-7

Projection without Tua: 7-10

Washington Commanders

2023 Record: 4-13

Washington has their new guy in town with Jayden Daniels! Things seem to be working just fine in practice as he is meshing with his team. Alongside a fresh start, the Commanders are joined with Austin Ekeler, Terry McLaurin, Jahan Dotson, and Zach Ertz. This team definitely has potential to be a threat. Marcus Mariota is their backup to help mentor Jayden Daniels on and off the field. Given that their schedule isn't too rough, I am sure they will be in more games than expected. I would not be surprised to see a version of this team in similar fashion to last year's Houston Texans. I am not 100% sure the Commanders can make the playoffs like the Texans did, but things may become interesting come January. Tough defensive games on the schedule with Philly twice, Pittsburgh, Tennessee, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Dallas. Strong defenses aren't as kind to rookie quarterbacks these days. I know this team is in the right direction. The tie comes in with that Chicago Bears prediction I made earlier.

Projection: 9-7-1

Denver Broncos

2023 Record: 8-9

The Denver Broncos are a failing franchise, and it's not even close. After the biggest trade failure in sports history—not even football, sports—Russell Wilson was released and picked up by Pittsburgh. The Broncos traded Jerry Jeudy to Cleveland earlier in the offseason. Now on their offense, Denver finds themselves with Courtland Sutton—who is itching to get out of there—Marvin Mims, Josh Reynold, and Tim Patrick. They aren't necessarily household receiver names, but it won't matter this season. Bo Nix was drafted by Denver in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, followed by the Zach Wilson trade with New York months later. It's not bad enough they ruined Russell Wilson's legacy, but they have to ruin Zach Wilson's too, who was already down in the dumps. Given that, they have made him 3rd on the depth chart behind Nix and Jarrett Stidham. This organization is so screwed up. They basically have high schoolers on defense with the exception of Patrick Surtain and Cody Barton. This Denver team not only sucks, but their schedule is worse. There is a legitimate chance this team only wins 2 games this year. However, things won't be that bad with their head coach.

Projection: 4-13

San Francisco 49ers

2023 Record: 12-5

The 49ers are going to be one of the strongest teams this season. In fact, I believe this 49ers team is one of the strongest teams in NFL history. It's unfortunate they keep finding themselves falling to Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl...now twice. Future Hall of Famers, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Kyle Juszczyk, Nick Bosa, Fred Warner, and probably more. Their biggest question in my opinion is Brock Purdy. Yes, Purdy is 20-5. Yes, he's made the Super Bowl. I am still questioning if the 49ers success is based off of this historically almost perfect squad, or if Purdy has something to do with it. When the 49ers had Trey Lance, everything was terrible. However, when Jimmy G was in town, they made the Super Bowl as well and posted a 39-18 record in his tenure. When he was traded to the Raiders, he became the problem with that team. So, are the 49ers just a really good team with a slightly above average quarterback? Or are we seeing something here with Brock Purdy? Year three, and we are about to find out. The Niners have a fairly easy schedule somehow. I have them repeating the division, but I will not spoil what I think will happen in the postseason.

Projection: 13-4

Atlanta Falcons

2023 Record: 7-10

The biggest talk of the Falcons offseason—maybe even the NFL—is Kirk Cousins signing with Atlanta. During the draft, the Falcons over-drafted Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 overall. Now, that will playout in the future, but right now, it is a mistake. I think the Falcons have one of the best offenses in the NFL. I don't think Kirk Cousins is the right guy to properly utilize said offense. His 25-16 record since 2021 is something people aren't considering, and a historically terrible divisional record is something to consider. The NFC South has been on a terrible run the past few seasons. I think things will start turning around, but not with this team. Having Bijan Robinson as your runningback is a perfect situation, and Drake London, Darnell Mooney, and Rondale Moore make for great targets. Kyle Pitts' freakishly long wingspan can scoop some balls up from sky high. I think this team will sit around average, and given the fact that this division struggles with winning games, they may get lucky and win the division. However, I think there is a better team to watch out for.

Projection: 7-10

New Orleans Saints

2023 Record: 9-8

Derek Carr is an electric quarterback who constantly reminds me of Matthew Stafford's past life in Detroit. Similarily, Carr had the same instance in Oakland/Vegas. I think this could be a team nobody is looking at to win the South. Chris Olave and Cedrick Wilson top out their chart after Michael Thomas was released. I think the Saints and Raiders should make a trade involving Kamara and Davante Adams. Bring Adams to Carr like initally planned in Las Vegas, which only lasted a season. They have a connection like no other. This will help round out this promising Saints offense. On defense, Cam Jordan, Demario Davis, Tyrann Mattieu, Chase Young, and Marshon Lattimore have a big impact already in the world. This defense is what will save the Saints' season. This team could potentially go 4-2 or 5-1 in the division. The rest of their schedule isn't as tough as you'd think. I like the Saints this year to win the South.

Projection: 10-7

Buffalo Bills

2023 Record: 11-6

After winning the East in a tiebreaker against Miami last season, the Bills are unfortunately looking down for me. I predicted earlier that the Jets & Dolphins will be tough, potentially setting up a series split between both teams. Losing Diggs is a huge blow for the offense, leaving Khalil Shakir, whilst joining newly signed Curtis Samuel and Keon Coleman. I really don't think much will change this year. Josh Allen accounted for 80%+ of touchdowns last year, more than the MVP Lamar Jackson. I think this is a similar situation to when Tyreek Hill left the Chiefs, everyone reacted as if they were suddendly a horrible team, but ended up going on a tear. I think the same thing can happen here. However, Josh Allen is not Mahomes, but he is closest to being Mahomes compared to anyone else in the league. The defense in Buffalo is still top tier. I think what will hurt Buffalo is close losses to similar strengthed teams this year. I think they may find themselves in a wild card position after a potential historical season from the Jets. Or they flip spots, who knows.

Projection: 11-6

Los Angeles Rams

2023 Record: 10-7

I think the Rams will return to Super Bowl form this season. Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua round out the receiver room with Kyren Williams leading the backfield. Boston Scott, a tiny fiery force sits behind newly drafted Michigan champion, Blake Corum. Jimmy Garoppolo backs up Stafford in a concerningly "football old" quarterback room. Aaron Donald retiring will take a lot of pressure off of NFL players everywhere. The best of all time will certainly be missed in the league. The Rams defense is building, but not as intense as it used to be. Christian Rozeboom is a name to watch. Tre'Davious White is a secret signing nobody seems to have noticed. I think there is something here with this team, but given the fact that the NFC is still fairly weak, the Rams will slip into a wild card again.

Projection: 11-6

Cincinnati Bengals

2023 Record: 9-8

After Joe Burrow went down, Jake Browning almost took the Bengals to the playoffs. There are plenty of questions surrounding this team. Will Zack Moss be the same Zack Moss he was last season? Will he be able to fill the void after the Joe Mixon trade? Will Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson be traded like they want? More importantly, will Joe Burrow stay healthy? The Bengals don't exactly have a great record without Burrow. They will certainly need him to stay his healthy MVP caliber self. This time around, I think there may be too much talent in the division to keep him on his path. The schedule seems a little rough for Cincinnati, as they go through Kansas City, Philadelphia, and Dallas, with a divisional series of Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Baltimore twice. This isn't exactly something the Bengals are used to, but especially since some of their teammates do not want to play there anymore. I think this could be a sign of decline in Cincinnati. This is the last season they will be dominant.

Projection: 8-9

Las Vegas Raiders

2023 Record: 8-9

The Raiders are always upside down when it comes to start the season. We never really know what is going to happen. Signing Gardner Minshew is a positive, but I thought that about Jimmy Garoppolo last year. Keeping Aidan O'Connell isn't a bad choice, but I think he will struggle fast. Being a backup is a different story than being the starter. In one situation, you are looked at to be the hero to save a failing team, and even the slighest amounts of success can shape you into a legend. But as a starter, you are expected to succeed, and the slightest hiccups will have you in the newspapers the next morning. You don't want to be in that situation if I'm O'Connell. Davante Adams is a leader in the lockerroom, but his moral is quickly fading. He seems to not want to be a Raider anymore. Zamir White is a capable back, but he might be slowed down by this offensive line. Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer will cut through defenses and explode the offense. Maxx Crosby is one of the best at the position in the league, but his high level of play is something other teams notice, and the Raiders are stupid enough to trade him away for breadcrumbs. I think Minshew eventually will get the starting gig, possibly by Week 7 against the Rams to give him extra playing time before a game against Kansas City. I know he is capable, but I just don't see this being a good year for Las Vegas.

Projection: 7-10

Green Bay Packers

2023 Record: 9-8

I can't find a more intriguing team to talk about this year other than Green Bay. The ingredients for success are all here. A 2nd place schedule, a winnable schedule, a growing wide receiver corps, a newly acquired runningback, a steady new tight end, a strong defensive secondary, and a promising star, Jordan Love. Jordan Love is everything the Packers hoped he would be since drafting him in 2020. Based on the history of Green Bay, Jordan Love will be a Hall of Famer. It's no longer out of line to assume the Packers could be playing for the Lombardi this year. Jordan Love started off sketchy, but his performance towards the end of the season really showcased what he is all about. The defense is very young and can play many teams this year to the very end of the game. I imagine this team winning the NFC North, and possibly making Super Bowl LIX.

Projection: 10-7