Last year we saw a crackdown on Pacman Jones, a retirement in Brett Favre and the NY Giants as Super Bowl champions. I thought I'd take a quick look at the upcoming year and teams. Here are a few of my thoughts...
ATL The star QB is serving 23 months on federal charges related to dogfighting. The win loss record plummeted and so has season ticket sales. Can it get any worse for Atlanta? Matt Ryan isn’t exactly the second coming of the imprisoned Michael Vick. Ryan did carry a mediocre offense to a great season. Will Turner be able to handle a full time load as a starter? Offensively challenged Falcons might rely on a few Elam field goals.
AZ Former Heisman trophy winner Leinart heads into camp first on the depth chart but could be on a short leash and must remain healthy to hold off Warner. Both Boldin and Fitzgerald are consistent Cardinals. However, something needs to happen soon for Anquan and his contract situation. Edgerrin is a workhorse but how much longer can he hold up. Pope could definately be a “sleeper”.
BAL After a disappointing 5-11 record McNair decided to call it quits. Left tackle Jonathan Ogden followed and hung up the cleats on a phenomenal career. The Raven defense will now have to carry this team until Flacco gets up to speed. Having Todd Heap finally healthy should be a bonus. With Harbaugh around there is a new energy.
BUF Buffalo had the 30th ranked offense and 31st defense. Say enough? Marshawn was good as advertised despite the record and unit rankings. Rookie James Hardy could give the Bills a needed boost in the red zone.
CAR Has Delhomme fully recovered from Tommy John surgery? The Panthers hopes rest on his elbow. In last 6 seasons the Panthers are only 24-24 at home. Having a QB carousel hurt Steve Smith in 2007.
CHI Two years removed from a Super Bowl the Bears could be on shaky ground. They are still struggling at QB (Grossman/Orton), may have lost their running attack with Cedric gone (good luck in Canada), and saw Berrian bolting off to Minnesota. That is not exactly a recipe for success. Definately will be interesting to see how well Forte responds. Tommie Harris played hurt most of the season and still made the Pro Bowl.
CIN How much of a distraction will Cinco’s holdout be? Having the Chad tirade and show (holdout) TJ Housh could have a superb year. Wide receiver Chris Henry was released from the team after another off the field incident. He was also suspended indefinately by the league. Only, Marino, Warner, Unitas and Peyton got to 100 TDs faster than Carson Palmer. The Bengals drafted Keith Rivers and it's not likely he will sit on the bench long.
CLE Brady Quinn still has his fans but find himself on the bench again. Jamal Lewis should find another 1,000 yard season. The Browns added Stallworth to open things up for Braylon. Winslow’s knee always has been a concern. If this is a playoff year McGinest's experience and leadership will be a major bonus.
DAL Went 13-3 and sent 13 players to the Pro Bowl but have now lost each of their last 4 postseason appearances. Marion Barber hasn’t been a full time back since high school. All eyes will be on Pacman Jones. Kicker Folk will do well in fantasy leagues. You know the Cowboys will put points on the board. If there's a concernt it could be the age factor. Both “T.O.” and Glenn are 34 while Zach Thomas is playin in his 13th year. Felix provides speed to complement Barber’s brutality.
DEN With the firing of GM Ted Sundquist there’s noone to blame if things go sour except Shanahan. Cutler and Marshall are the building blocks for the franchise. Selvin Young has emerged as the front runner at RB. Darrell Jackson was brought in for experience. Stokely is still one of the best slot receivers around. The OL was addressed in offseason. Clady should step in immediately at left tackle. Health (as opposed to last season) should play a major factor in the Broncos season. Losing Elam will definitely hurt. Royal could ride mile high in the return game.
DET Can the Lions stop anyone on defense? That could be highly debatable. They couldn’t get off the field. Since Matt Millen became team president in 2001 the Lions have gone 31-81 and have only won one playoff game since winning it all in 1957. Could there be a change in the works? Rookie RB Kevin Smith could turn some heads.
GB How do you replace a legend such as Brett Favre? After 16 years the Packers will have a new look and a new feel. The new face is Aaron Rodgers. Can he remain healthy (2006 broken foot, 2007 hamstring) remains to be seen. Grant may have to carry more of a load with Favre gone and with Brett gone Crosby could also see more FGs.
HOU Could this be the year the Texans finally posts a winning record? Despite finishing 8-8 and losing some of their top players (Schaub, Ahman, Andre Johnson, Dunta, etc) for much of the season Houston is optimistic. When Andre is healthy he’s one of the top receivers in the league. After finishing 3rd in the league in sacks Mario Wiliams looks to top that.
IND If Peyton is present you can mark them down for 10 wins minimum. Is Marvin’s career coming to a close as a Colt? Injuries limited him last year and with a police investigation of a shooting looming it could be interesting to see how things plays out. Wayne has clearly become the main man as one of the league's top receiving threats. Anthony Gonzalez could have a breakout season. Joseph Addai is reliable in the clutch but could be pushed by youngster Mike Hart.
JAX Garrard played phenomenally last year and emerged as the teams franchise QB. Fred Taylor (at 32) finally played in his first Pro Bowl last year. However, Jones-Drew is becoming the face of the future (little guy who puts up big numbers). Jerry Porter was brought in to become the #1 go to receiver. At 6 TDs in OAK he should clearly be able to top that as a Jaguar.
KC Rookie Dwayne Bowe was the lone bright spot at WR. Gonzalez once again was the Chief’s top receiver. Larry Johnson struggled behind a bad OL before his foot fracture. Glenn Dorsey will be a major addition to the DL.
MIA Parcells adds instant credibility to a 1-15 franchise. Beck has the QB slot to lose. Revamped OL should help immediately. Jake Long will be expected to anchor the OL and protect the inexperience. Ginn averaged 12.4 yards per catch and can stretch the field.
MIN The Vikings will go as far as Tavaris. Jackson remains a work in progress. He can definitely beat you with his legs but can he beat you with his arm? With the addition of Berrian there can’t be any more excuses for Tavaris. Adrian Peterson could be scary good if he can stay healthy. Durability could be his only question mark. On defense Minnesota is next to impossible to run against.
NE Brady has never missed a start since 2001. What do Brady and Moss do for an encore? With an even easier schedule the Pats wont lose many games. Needing to get younger on the LB front New England drafted Jerod Mayo who be expected to step in and help right away.
NO Where will the running game go? Deuce is coming off double knee surgery (2nd ACL in less than 2 years). Bush was sidelined the final 4 games with a partially torn PCL. Sedrick Ellis (DT) drafted from USC should fill a need immediately. Brees was spectacular before injuries depleted his arsenal. Was Colston really a 7th round pick?
NYG The coach got an extension. The team visited the White House. The QB got married. Its never easy to repeat in the NFL with as many intangibles are present each season. Will there be a Super Bowl hangover? Shockey isn't happy and wants a trade while Plaxico wants a new contract. Is the Super Bowl honeymoon already over? Or will they look to enjoy that basking again? Kenny Phillips from Miami is a wonderful addition and will start from day one. After 13 seasons Toomer still comes up clutch.
NYJ A record of 4-12 can be pretty glaring. Thomas Jones, Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues were all putting up big numbers for the Jets just not in the end zone. Gholston should help the linebacking corp.
OAK With an upgraded supporting cast the Raiders could make some noise in 2008. JaMarcus didn’t get his first start in 2007 until week 16. Fargas could be pushed my McFadden who is expected to supercharge the Raider nation running game. Javon gets a fresh new start, again.
PHI With McNabb fully recovered from his ’06 ACL injury look for more mobility/scrambles, receptions and more points on the board. DeSean Jackson will be a strength on kick returns. Westbrook is amazingly productive as a reliable runner or receiver for the Eagles.
PIT Steeler fans might notice that will play one of the toughest schedules in 2008. Drafting Rashard gives more versatility and lightens Parker’s load without a dropoff. Losing Alan Faneca in his prime to the Jets will hurt. Injuries to Polamalu made it his worst season but still made the pro bowl.
SD How much longer will the window be open for Tomlinson? The Chargers have clearly separated themselves from the field in the AFC West and should have no problem again in 2008. In the offseason Rivers had his torn ACL repaired. Chambers quickly became Rivers’ favorite target. Gates is reliable within the red zone. Merriman has a motor that knows one speed. Weddle is a real ball hawk who takes over for Marlon McCree.
SEA The Seahawks are moving to a new a new multimillion practice facility and even used it to recruit Julius Jones (replacing Alexander). Look for Burleson to shine while Deion Branch will miss half or even all of this year with a knee injury. The linebacking corps is among the best.
SF Bay area fans are growing impatient with Alex Smith the former 2005 number one pick. Alex Smith isn’t exactly Brett Favre but keep in mind Mike Martz will become Smith’s fourth offensive coordinator in 4 seasons. As Alex’s safety net look for Vernon Davis’ numbers to blow up with Martz’ arrival. Gore has the chance to become the first player to rush for more than 1000 yards in 3 consecutive seasons.
STL After a health plagued year the Rams look to bounce back from a 3-13 record. Chris Long will come to play every down and will be a breath of fresh air. If Rams can protect Bulger he’ll produce.
TB Oft injured Cadillac Williams has Warrick Dunn aboard. Returns to his former team who drafted him. But that was 1997. Galloway is in his 14th year (not sure what that is in football years) and still has some wheels. Jeff Garcia was a major difference last year for the Bucs.
TN Having a new offensive coordinator (Mike Heimerdinger) should help bring more confidence for Vince Young. The Titans added a major upgrade at TE in Alge Crumpler. Losing Pacman as a total distraction could actually be addition by subtraction. LenDale ran over 1000 yards topping 100 yards in five games. McCareins returns to the fold in the receiving corps. As a kicker Bironas is clutch. Can he top last seasons production?
WAS New coach Jim Zorn brings playing experience to the Redskin camp. Washington saw postseason first time since 1999. Cooley gets in the end zone year after year. Redskins should give Devin Thomas a chance to get on the field.
ATL The star QB is serving 23 months on federal charges related to dogfighting. The win loss record plummeted and so has season ticket sales. Can it get any worse for Atlanta? Matt Ryan isn’t exactly the second coming of the imprisoned Michael Vick. Ryan did carry a mediocre offense to a great season. Will Turner be able to handle a full time load as a starter? Offensively challenged Falcons might rely on a few Elam field goals.
AZ Former Heisman trophy winner Leinart heads into camp first on the depth chart but could be on a short leash and must remain healthy to hold off Warner. Both Boldin and Fitzgerald are consistent Cardinals. However, something needs to happen soon for Anquan and his contract situation. Edgerrin is a workhorse but how much longer can he hold up. Pope could definately be a “sleeper”.
BAL After a disappointing 5-11 record McNair decided to call it quits. Left tackle Jonathan Ogden followed and hung up the cleats on a phenomenal career. The Raven defense will now have to carry this team until Flacco gets up to speed. Having Todd Heap finally healthy should be a bonus. With Harbaugh around there is a new energy.
BUF Buffalo had the 30th ranked offense and 31st defense. Say enough? Marshawn was good as advertised despite the record and unit rankings. Rookie James Hardy could give the Bills a needed boost in the red zone.
CAR Has Delhomme fully recovered from Tommy John surgery? The Panthers hopes rest on his elbow. In last 6 seasons the Panthers are only 24-24 at home. Having a QB carousel hurt Steve Smith in 2007.
CHI Two years removed from a Super Bowl the Bears could be on shaky ground. They are still struggling at QB (Grossman/Orton), may have lost their running attack with Cedric gone (good luck in Canada), and saw Berrian bolting off to Minnesota. That is not exactly a recipe for success. Definately will be interesting to see how well Forte responds. Tommie Harris played hurt most of the season and still made the Pro Bowl.
CIN How much of a distraction will Cinco’s holdout be? Having the Chad tirade and show (holdout) TJ Housh could have a superb year. Wide receiver Chris Henry was released from the team after another off the field incident. He was also suspended indefinately by the league. Only, Marino, Warner, Unitas and Peyton got to 100 TDs faster than Carson Palmer. The Bengals drafted Keith Rivers and it's not likely he will sit on the bench long.
CLE Brady Quinn still has his fans but find himself on the bench again. Jamal Lewis should find another 1,000 yard season. The Browns added Stallworth to open things up for Braylon. Winslow’s knee always has been a concern. If this is a playoff year McGinest's experience and leadership will be a major bonus.
DAL Went 13-3 and sent 13 players to the Pro Bowl but have now lost each of their last 4 postseason appearances. Marion Barber hasn’t been a full time back since high school. All eyes will be on Pacman Jones. Kicker Folk will do well in fantasy leagues. You know the Cowboys will put points on the board. If there's a concernt it could be the age factor. Both “T.O.” and Glenn are 34 while Zach Thomas is playin in his 13th year. Felix provides speed to complement Barber’s brutality.
DEN With the firing of GM Ted Sundquist there’s noone to blame if things go sour except Shanahan. Cutler and Marshall are the building blocks for the franchise. Selvin Young has emerged as the front runner at RB. Darrell Jackson was brought in for experience. Stokely is still one of the best slot receivers around. The OL was addressed in offseason. Clady should step in immediately at left tackle. Health (as opposed to last season) should play a major factor in the Broncos season. Losing Elam will definitely hurt. Royal could ride mile high in the return game.
DET Can the Lions stop anyone on defense? That could be highly debatable. They couldn’t get off the field. Since Matt Millen became team president in 2001 the Lions have gone 31-81 and have only won one playoff game since winning it all in 1957. Could there be a change in the works? Rookie RB Kevin Smith could turn some heads.
GB How do you replace a legend such as Brett Favre? After 16 years the Packers will have a new look and a new feel. The new face is Aaron Rodgers. Can he remain healthy (2006 broken foot, 2007 hamstring) remains to be seen. Grant may have to carry more of a load with Favre gone and with Brett gone Crosby could also see more FGs.
HOU Could this be the year the Texans finally posts a winning record? Despite finishing 8-8 and losing some of their top players (Schaub, Ahman, Andre Johnson, Dunta, etc) for much of the season Houston is optimistic. When Andre is healthy he’s one of the top receivers in the league. After finishing 3rd in the league in sacks Mario Wiliams looks to top that.
IND If Peyton is present you can mark them down for 10 wins minimum. Is Marvin’s career coming to a close as a Colt? Injuries limited him last year and with a police investigation of a shooting looming it could be interesting to see how things plays out. Wayne has clearly become the main man as one of the league's top receiving threats. Anthony Gonzalez could have a breakout season. Joseph Addai is reliable in the clutch but could be pushed by youngster Mike Hart.
JAX Garrard played phenomenally last year and emerged as the teams franchise QB. Fred Taylor (at 32) finally played in his first Pro Bowl last year. However, Jones-Drew is becoming the face of the future (little guy who puts up big numbers). Jerry Porter was brought in to become the #1 go to receiver. At 6 TDs in OAK he should clearly be able to top that as a Jaguar.
KC Rookie Dwayne Bowe was the lone bright spot at WR. Gonzalez once again was the Chief’s top receiver. Larry Johnson struggled behind a bad OL before his foot fracture. Glenn Dorsey will be a major addition to the DL.
MIA Parcells adds instant credibility to a 1-15 franchise. Beck has the QB slot to lose. Revamped OL should help immediately. Jake Long will be expected to anchor the OL and protect the inexperience. Ginn averaged 12.4 yards per catch and can stretch the field.
MIN The Vikings will go as far as Tavaris. Jackson remains a work in progress. He can definitely beat you with his legs but can he beat you with his arm? With the addition of Berrian there can’t be any more excuses for Tavaris. Adrian Peterson could be scary good if he can stay healthy. Durability could be his only question mark. On defense Minnesota is next to impossible to run against.
NE Brady has never missed a start since 2001. What do Brady and Moss do for an encore? With an even easier schedule the Pats wont lose many games. Needing to get younger on the LB front New England drafted Jerod Mayo who be expected to step in and help right away.
NO Where will the running game go? Deuce is coming off double knee surgery (2nd ACL in less than 2 years). Bush was sidelined the final 4 games with a partially torn PCL. Sedrick Ellis (DT) drafted from USC should fill a need immediately. Brees was spectacular before injuries depleted his arsenal. Was Colston really a 7th round pick?
NYG The coach got an extension. The team visited the White House. The QB got married. Its never easy to repeat in the NFL with as many intangibles are present each season. Will there be a Super Bowl hangover? Shockey isn't happy and wants a trade while Plaxico wants a new contract. Is the Super Bowl honeymoon already over? Or will they look to enjoy that basking again? Kenny Phillips from Miami is a wonderful addition and will start from day one. After 13 seasons Toomer still comes up clutch.
NYJ A record of 4-12 can be pretty glaring. Thomas Jones, Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues were all putting up big numbers for the Jets just not in the end zone. Gholston should help the linebacking corp.
OAK With an upgraded supporting cast the Raiders could make some noise in 2008. JaMarcus didn’t get his first start in 2007 until week 16. Fargas could be pushed my McFadden who is expected to supercharge the Raider nation running game. Javon gets a fresh new start, again.
PHI With McNabb fully recovered from his ’06 ACL injury look for more mobility/scrambles, receptions and more points on the board. DeSean Jackson will be a strength on kick returns. Westbrook is amazingly productive as a reliable runner or receiver for the Eagles.
PIT Steeler fans might notice that will play one of the toughest schedules in 2008. Drafting Rashard gives more versatility and lightens Parker’s load without a dropoff. Losing Alan Faneca in his prime to the Jets will hurt. Injuries to Polamalu made it his worst season but still made the pro bowl.
SD How much longer will the window be open for Tomlinson? The Chargers have clearly separated themselves from the field in the AFC West and should have no problem again in 2008. In the offseason Rivers had his torn ACL repaired. Chambers quickly became Rivers’ favorite target. Gates is reliable within the red zone. Merriman has a motor that knows one speed. Weddle is a real ball hawk who takes over for Marlon McCree.
SEA The Seahawks are moving to a new a new multimillion practice facility and even used it to recruit Julius Jones (replacing Alexander). Look for Burleson to shine while Deion Branch will miss half or even all of this year with a knee injury. The linebacking corps is among the best.
SF Bay area fans are growing impatient with Alex Smith the former 2005 number one pick. Alex Smith isn’t exactly Brett Favre but keep in mind Mike Martz will become Smith’s fourth offensive coordinator in 4 seasons. As Alex’s safety net look for Vernon Davis’ numbers to blow up with Martz’ arrival. Gore has the chance to become the first player to rush for more than 1000 yards in 3 consecutive seasons.
STL After a health plagued year the Rams look to bounce back from a 3-13 record. Chris Long will come to play every down and will be a breath of fresh air. If Rams can protect Bulger he’ll produce.
TB Oft injured Cadillac Williams has Warrick Dunn aboard. Returns to his former team who drafted him. But that was 1997. Galloway is in his 14th year (not sure what that is in football years) and still has some wheels. Jeff Garcia was a major difference last year for the Bucs.
TN Having a new offensive coordinator (Mike Heimerdinger) should help bring more confidence for Vince Young. The Titans added a major upgrade at TE in Alge Crumpler. Losing Pacman as a total distraction could actually be addition by subtraction. LenDale ran over 1000 yards topping 100 yards in five games. McCareins returns to the fold in the receiving corps. As a kicker Bironas is clutch. Can he top last seasons production?
WAS New coach Jim Zorn brings playing experience to the Redskin camp. Washington saw postseason first time since 1999. Cooley gets in the end zone year after year. Redskins should give Devin Thomas a chance to get on the field.
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