PITTSBURGH: :28 seconds left, Roethlisberger hits James across the middle, he stretches out, crosses the line to what then seemed to be the go ahead score as the Steelers played host to New England. However, after several reviews I guess the ball slipped enough when it hit the ground the officials ruled "no catch". What presented to be a catch and a football move to the end zone, resulted in two plays later a Big Ben interception and a Patriots win 27-24 en route to home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. That's when I knew Pittsburgh wasn't going to the Super Bowl. Sometimes just the luck of your draw. Enter playoffs even after a (13-3) regular season record, sometimes the luck of your draw as Jacksonville was the opponent and the rest became history for black and yellow. New season, same LeVeon Bell contract issues. Bell who was franchise tagged for consecutive seasons, at a nice ($14.544) million being made, still wants that stability of a long term contract anywhere north of ($16-17) million. Bell who can hit free agency in 2019, is looking around the league at comparison to himself and what others are receiving. LeVeon has had over (1,541) touches over the past 5 seasons including a league leading (406) touches last year. Falcons RB Devonta Freeman had set the standard at around ($8.5) million now Rams RB Todd Gurley received ($15) million per, so Bell is looking for his payday. Reports is the Steelers offered a (5 year - $70 million) dollar contact, where the first two years would be the bulk, however the guaranteed money is the issue. Bell coming off a (1,291) rushing yards and (9) touchdown, (85) reception, (655) receiving yards season, has been a work horse and a catalyst to the Pittsburgh. QB Ben Roethlisberger now in season (15) threw for (4,251 pass yards / 28 TDs / 14 INTs) in 2017. His Steelers have ranked in the top (10) in offense the last four seasons. Pittsburgh was (3rd) in passing yards with (273.8) per game. Largely due to pro bowl WR Antonio Brown. All (5'11) of Brown was on display as he recorded (101 catches / 1,533 rec yards / 9 TDs) in 2017. He averaged (15.2) yards per catch while his (1,533) receiving yards was tops in the NFL. Brown also averages (116) receptions per season over the last five seasons. He also has almost (10,000) career receiving yards in less than (8) full NFL seasons under his belt. The debate remains who is the best receiver in the game between he and Falcons WR Julio Jones, however one thing is for certain, he damn sure is the best in the AFC. Pittsburgh drafted then rookie WR JuJu Smith-Schuster in last years draft. Smith-Schuster set the bar high coming out of the gates with (917 rec yards / 7 TDs). His performance last season kind of was the telling story of WR Martavius Bryant future with the team. He alongside Brown look to give the Steelers their first duo of (1,000) yard receivers in the same season since Brown and Mike Wallace accomplished this in 2011. Tight ends Jesse James coming off injury to go with TE Vance McDonald just adds more depth to a pass catching core that is already loaded. The defense ranked (7th) only allowing (19.3) points per game brings back majority of their defense. Linebacker Ryan Shazier before his injury was looking like the real deal in his fourth season. Shazier suffered a spinal injury in December. Some can't even believe his progress now as most think he will not be able to play football again. Shazier is now making huge progressions and is walking without a cane. Classic organization as Pittsburgh, a humbling gesture gave the linebacker all of his 2018 ($8.25 million) salary up front as he tries to recover from a life threatening injury. Before the injury Shazier was third on the team in tackles with (3) interceptions. Pittsburgh drafted LB TJ Watt last season. Another improving linebacker only in his first season had (7) sacks. He is the younger brother of Texans defensive star JJ Watt so it is in the bloodline. Also LB Bud Dupree the Steelers first round pick of 2015 had (6) sacks as well. Defensive end Cameron Heyward had a career high and team high (12) sacks in 2017. As a unit the Steelers led the league with (56) sacks for the season. All pro corner Joe Haden returns after being traded and signed a (3 year) extension with the team Pittsburgh brings over S Morgan Burnett another solid veteran that will help groom (2) third year players in S Sean Davis and CB Artie Burns. Davis was (2nd) in tackles while Burns led the team in pass deflections. The Steelers added safety Terrell Edmunds of Virginia Tech with the (28th) overall pick in the draft. Edmunds is coming off shoulder surgery has some size for his speed and will add more depth to a loaded Pittsburgh defense. Some have said head coach Mike Tomlin is more of a glorified cheerleader than head coach. The Steelers (13) wins were the most under Tomlin during the regular season, however just (8-7) in the playoffs over (11) seasons. Pittsburgh will look to continue to be one of best teams in the AFC. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (12-4)ADDITIONS - MORGAN BURNETT, JON BOSTIC, BRYCE HARRIS, TERRELL EDMUNDS, MASON RUDOLPH
DEPARTURES - MIKE MITCHELL, JJ WILCOX, WILLIAM GAY, RYAN SHAZIER
BALTIMORE: Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are not walking through those doors in Baltimore anymore as it seems like the teams identity left when they did as well. A one time feared Ravens team find itself at a crossroads of sort. Head coach John Harbaugh who has had a ton of regular season success to go along with postseason, (10-5 playoff record) success, however just (3) winning seasons since their last Super Bowl victory in 2012 is part of the decline the Ravens seem to be headed. Baltimore, a (63-30) record and five consecutive playoff appearances before 2012, since then (41-45) and only one postseason berth. Football is a team sport, but when you lose mentoring voices like Lewis and Reed who were on the team for so many years, you need a new face to look too. That hasn't been QB Joe Flacco. Flacco more of a standoffish type of QB, just goes out and plays. All except for the 2014 season where he threw a career high (27) touchdowns, not the most elite production coming from a very well paid player. The franchise leader in most passing statistics, found himself in a downward spiral career and statistical wise. Just (18 TDs / 13 INTs) in 2017, Flacco will need a better output in 2018. Even being ranked (9th) in offense scoring, they were (29th) in passing yards (189.4 ppg) and (27th) in total yards. Wide receivers Mike Wallace and Jeremy Maclin have now been replaced with Michael Crabtree and John Brown. Brown has been down the line on the depth chart in Arizona so will get his chance as a true #2 wide receiver. While Crabtree has made a home in the end zone, with (25) touchdowns and over (2,500) receiving yards over the past (3) seasons could light a spark into Flacco. The running attack kept their offense semi balance in 2017. Baltimore ranked (11th) in rushing lead by Alex Collins. Collins ran for (973) yards on (4.6 yards per rush). The 23 year old is the main rusher in a backfield that consists of Javorious Allen and Terrance West. Baltimore shook opening draft night, not by their first selection which was well needed, TE Hayden Hurst, 25th overall. However by them moving back up into the first round and stealing QB Lamar Jackson at 32nd. Hurst a big (6'5 - 250lbs) tight end who was All-SEC to go with his size has great speed in the open field. Tight end has been an empty slot for the Ravens offense as of late. While Jackson brings another excitement to the game. The former 2016 Heisman Trophy winner racked up all kinds of offensive records and awards on his way out of Louisville. Jackson accumulated (57 TDs / 19 INTs - 7,205 pass yards) and (40 TDs rushing / 3,172 rushing yards) which seem Mike Vick'ish. Jackson has definitely put some more juice in Flacco's game with a young and upcoming QB that has grown into a fan favorite just waiting in the midst. Another big part of the Ravens having any success and a winning season was their bread and butter, the defense. Ranked (6th) overall, Baltimore only gave up (18.9) points per game. Largely thanks to their league leading (22) interceptions. The Ravens secondary is one of the best in the NFL. Eric Weddle (6 INTs), Brandon Carr (4 INTs), Jimmy Smith (3 INTs), as well as Tony Jefferson at safety and the development of Marlon Humphrey, the Ravens first round pick in 2017, this secondary is made for turnovers. Terrell Suggs may be 35 years old but he can still hang with the best of them. Suggs led the team with (11) sacks and now has (125.5) career total sacks for the future Hall of Famer. QB Robert Griffin III also will join Jackson as Flacco's backups this upcoming season. The one time rookie offensive player of the year hasn't played a game since in over a year. Center Ryan Jensen left Baltimore for Tampa. His presence was huge anchoring that offensive line. Case in point why the Ravens drafted offensive tackle Orlando Brown to fill in some gaps. A better running game will help counter Flacco and his passing attack. Crabtree should get the Ravens some more points on the board but with Flacco looking over his shoulders while the prospective QBs behind him wait patiently may be a gift and a curse for Baltimore. Time will tell, however time shows me that its not the Ravens year for another postseason run. 2018 PREDICITIONS - (8-8)ADDITIONS - JOHN BROWN, MICHAEL CRABTREE, WILLIE SNEAD, ROBERT GRIFFIN III, HAYDEN HURST, LAMAR JACKSON
DEPARTURES - MIKE WALLACE, JEREMY MACLIN, RYAN JENSEN
CINCINNATI: Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is (125-112-3) as head coach for the Cincinnati Bengals. Lewis is the all time winning head coach in franchise history, but that is not saying much. Now entering year 16 with Cincinnati, Lewis is still winless in the playoffs (0-7) and have not tasted the postseason since 2015 when they (12-4) and won the AFC North. That seems like many moons again for Bengals fans and rightful so. So many good regular season teams to come up short in the playoffs is becoming the norm. That 2015 season was the end of five consecutive trips to the playoffs for Cincinnati. Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor received a contract extension. Lazor will try to improve from their (26th) overall ranking a season ago. QB Andy Dalton, now going into his eighth season in the NFL is still trying to prove what echelon of the QB tier he belongs in. Certainly he is not Brady, Rodgers, nor Drew Brees, but Dalton has flashes of some promise. Last season to say the least was not one of them. Dalton threw for (3,320 yards / 25 TDs / 12 INTs) in 2017. The Bengals averaged just (18.1 ppg) and was (27th) in passing with barely (195.1) pass yards per. Cannot discredit WR AJ Green for not doing his part. The 7-time pro bowler had (1,078 rec yards / 8 TDs). Green has been as consistent as they come for the Bengals, recording at least (1,000) yards receiving in (6) of his (7) NFL seasons. The only reason it wasn't (7/7) due to an knee injury in 2016 kept him off the field six games. Another injured but key component to the Bengals success offensively is TE Tyler Eifert. Eifert with just (39) games played in five seasons is coming off back surgery. The 2015 Pro Bowl tight end had a career year that year in yards to go with (13) touchdowns. However with just seeing the field only (10) games over the last two years become problematic. As well as first round pick WR John Ross, who set the combine on fire with his (40 yard dash record) has yet to make an impact. The speedster wide receiver has been plagued by injuries and durability standards to even make a difference on the field. Injuries or not Cincinnati had (8) draft picks this year and went offensive line with the 21st pick C Billy Price out of Ohio State. Price won the Dave Rimington Trophy as the nations top center in 2017. He will be immediately plugged in at center for the Bengals. As the Bengals worked on their offensive line during the offseason and the draft. They must improve from their (31st) ranking rushing. They averaged just (85.4) rush yards per game. The Bengals drafter RB Joe Mixon out of Oklahoma in the second round last season. Mixon lead the Bengals in rushing and carries (178 car / 626 rush yards). Mixon only had one (100) yard rushing game and that was against the Browns. While the Bengals as a franchise has not had a (1,000) yard rusher since Corey Dillion. With Mixon presumably taking on the lead back role, while RB Giovanni Bernard now in his (6th) season, all with Cincinnati adds his dual back abilities to take some of the pressure off of Mixon. Cincinnati also went defense in the draft early going safety, defensive end and linebacker with their next (3) picks within the first (2-3) rounds and added more depth to a talented defense. The Bengals hoping Sam Hubbard as well as LB Malik Jefferson their other 3rd round pick can be an improvement to that defensive front. Cincinnati was (29th) versus the run last season, being picked apart for (127.9) rush yards per contest. They were ranked in the top 10 for pass defense. The defensive front may couldn't stop the run but they sure did know how to get in the backfield. Between DE Michael Johnson (5.0), DE Carlos Dunlap (7.5), DT Geno Adkins (9.0), and rookie LB Carl Lawson (8.5) was the beginning of their (41) sack campaign. Guess their pressure just secured the secondary a bit more. Hard hitting LB Vontaze Burfict returns with his play making abilities with hopes of limiting flags and illegal hits; not just for his own bank account but for the Bengals well being. Some of Burfict's shenanigans has been outlandish and costly for the Bengals as a team. Plenty of storylines to say the least for Cincy. The question still remains, why do the Bengals as an organization insist on keeping Marvin Lewis services around? Clearly he isn't the guy. Even more questions shall arise if another missed playoff appearance happens. Andy Dalton the right guy at QB? Dalton is on the books til 2020, and the next two season is the bulk of his contract being paid out. Move on from AJ Green? See what value he has left in trade before he can hit the open market again after 2019? Shed away some long term pieces on defense? Either way you see it, a rebuild looks prominent in the near future. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (7-9)ADDITIONS - CHRIS BAKER, BOBBY HART, CORDY GLENN, BILLY PRICE, SAM HUBBARD, MALIK JEFFERSON
DEPARTURES - JEREMY HILL, AJ MCCARRON, BRANDON LAFELL, ADAM JONES, KEVIN MINTER
CLEVELAND: It's a hard knock life trying to be the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. Enter Baker Mayfield, Cleveland's presentably (30th and 31st) starting QB since the team resurfaced back in 1999, selected #1 overall in this years NFL draft. Mayfield a "Russell Wilson" comparison to some was an offensive machine during his time at OU. Mayfield last (2) seasons he had numbers of (8,592 yards / 83 TDs / 14 INTs) before ending his collegiate career in a loss in the 2017 College Football Playoffs. Not since drafting QB Johnny Manziel (22nd) overall in 2014, has their been another polarizing figure at the QB position. Both Heisman Trophy winners, a bit more polished around the edges is Mayfield. A gun slinger, with a chip on his shoulder and a toughness you would want from any member of your team, especially at quarterback. That type of charisma may be what Cleveland needs as a tide of new leadership and players joins the 2018 Cleveland Browns. However the 2017 Browns, stench of (0-16) lingers amongst Cleveland and Browns fans alike. They joined the 2008 Detroit Lions as the only other teams in NFL history to go winless during a (16) game season. Their (1-31) record over the past two seasons is the worst in NFL history over a (2) year span. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam fired then general manager Sashi Brown and brought on former Kansas City GM John Dorsey. Haslam is in hopes of bringing a new mentality and culture to the Browns organization. The moves they made in the draft and during the offseason has definitely put some light on the direction the Browns want to go. Establish your QB situation. Cleveland may have drafted Baker Mayfield #1 overall, however veteran QB Tyrod Taylor was bought over to play not watch. Taylor coming off a postseason berth with the Bills brings his "ball security" tactics over from Buffalo. He only threw for (2,799) yards last season however a great TD/INT ratio (14 TDs / 4 INTs). Mayfield will eventually shatter those passing totals by Taylor but for now the Browns should have Taylor under center. Even though the Bills ranked (31st) in passing offense with Tyrod as QB while Cleveland ranked (22nd) in 2017. WR Jarvis Landry brings his talents from South Beach to northwest Ohio. Landry signed a (5 year - $75 million) dollar contract during the summer keeping him around for the future. Landry had career highs in receptions (112) and touchdowns with (9) last season in Miami. Josh Gordon returns after resigning to stay with the Browns for one season. Nothing guaranteed contract wise with Gordon due to recent and multiple infractions of substance abuse. Gordon averaged (18.2) yards per catch, similar to his 2013 breakout season where he averaged (18.9) per catch with a league leading (1,645) receiving yards alongside (9 TDs) and looked virtually unstoppable. If TE David Djouku can keep learning the game and elevating his craft, the passing offense will see a significant boost. Cleveland brings over RB Carlos Hyde from the Niners. Hyde is a physical downhill runner with a sense for finding the end zone (14) touchdowns over the last (2) seasons. He has been flirting with (1,000) yard rushing seasons, he has just been hobbled by nagging injuries. Duke Johnson remains vital as 3rd down option, but the team drafted RB Nick Chubb as well. Chubb rushed for (100) yards or more in (13) straight games dating back from his freshman season to sophomore. As well as Chubb scored over (36) times at Georgia and is second behind Herschel Walker for most rushing yards in school history. However knee injuries have slowed Chubb down some and could be a concern in the future. While the Browns were dead last in offense they were just (31st) in defense allowing (25.6) points per game. Cleveland obtained two first round picks and I was thinking defense with the second pick, just pass rush with Bradley Chubb; however they took Denzel Ward, cornerback out of Ohio State. Ward has a small frame but plays bigger than what he looks. Ward led Ohio State in pass breakups a year ago as he will look to help the Browns improve from just (7) interceptions in 2017. While year two with DE Myles Garrett should be an improvement. Battling injuries his rookie year, playing just (10) games, Garrett still found his way to the QB with (7) sacks. Not a single one of the Browns first round draft picks from the 2016 draft and before remain on the team. The likes of (Joe Haden, Joe Thomas, Barkevious Mingo, Trent Richardson, Johnny Manziel) and now WR Corey Coleman are off Cleveland's roster. Being said, Mayfield will get his shot this season. Since 2011, taking the franchise QB in the first round (Cam Newton, Jameis Winston, Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III) all either started all (16) games or started some games at QB the same season. The future is promising for Cleveland, better than years before, but baby steps. You can't just go from driving a hoopty to a benz over night. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (5-11)ADDITIONS - JARVIS LANDRY, TYROD TAYLOR, MYCHAL KENDRICKS, CARLOS HYDE, DEMARIOUS RANDALL, BAKER MAYFIELD, DENZEL WARD, NICK CHUBB
DEPARTURES - JOE THOMAS, JASON MCCOURTY, DESHON KIZER, ISAIAH CROWELL, COREY COLEMAN
AFC NORTH ANALYSIS: Who isn't rooting for the Browns to succeed? Right? Wishful thinking with a team retooled on both sides of the ball, especially offense. Patience will be key. How much patience with Josh Gordon? How much patience before #1 overall draft pick Baker Mayfield starts? Just how much patience does owner Jimmy Haslam have with head coach Hue Jackson? Browns will at least be more competitive. QB Lamar Jackson has put fear and fire under QB Joe Flacco. Social media has constantly went in on picture showing a disgruntled looking Flacco during the offseason after the Ravens drafted Jackson in the first round. Being said, Flacco has not performed well since the team won their last Super Bowl in 2012 or since he . A (34-36) record since getting that hefty (6 year $120 million) dollar contract is not paying dividends the way Baltimore wants. The Bengals have had the talent on both sides of the ball to keep being the center of mediocrity in the NFL. Oh wait, that's the Dallas Cowboys. Anyways they have been average at best in the AFC North. Cincinnati and its fans are not going to keep dealing with mediocrity nor missed playoff opportunities. Time for head coach Marvin Lewis to either put up or get out. Pittsburgh still remains the cream of the crop in the division. Their offense is as potent as ever. Trust and believe LeVeon Bell will be with the team week 1. Their defense is still trying to find their own identity in wake of Ryan Shazier injury and departure of James Harrison. The Steelers look to roll through the AFC North yet again, however the division games will remind us why the division is called the "black and blue" division.
AFC EAST
NEW ENGLAND: Can't go an offseason without hearing something about the dark side of the force. Patriots WR Julian Edelman who is coming off a torn ACL which caused him to miss the entire 2017 season was suspended by the NFL for usage of PED's, This violation carries a (4) game suspension which Edelman will go through his process at the beginning of the season. Normal offseason headline until you see that Edelman has been working out and taking supplements at the TB-12 Clinic, Tom Brady's personal clinic. Brady's personal clinic lodged right in owner's Robert Kraft's fortress is home to Brady's long term friend/personal trainer Alex Guerrero and his clients. A percentage of the team is starting to use the TB-12 clinic instead of facilitates on site. Questions pondered around Foxborough on Edelman getting popped but Brady is clean? Brady and Guerrero both took offense and quickly made statements regarding the allegations. Nevertheless it is never a dull moment with the Patriots, on and off the field. Same Patriots who let the current and probably G.O.A.T; QB Tom Brady flex his power by getting rid of his then successor QB Jimmy Garrapolo. A decision that I believe has put a strangle on the Brady/Belichick relationship. Coming off a stunning Super Bowl loss to the Eagles, the Patriots look determined to get to their (10th) straight playoff appearance and hopefully a (3rd) straight Super Bowl appearance. Brady who recently turned 41 years old, seems to be getting better with age. He threw for a league high (4,577) yards with (32 TDs / 8 INTs). New England ranked (#1 - offense / #1 - scoring off / #2 - pass offense / #10 - rush offense) in 2017 as they went (13-3). This season like any other has a lot of turnover on both sides of the ball. Starting with offense, lost long time offensive tackle Nat Solder to free agency and drafted Isaih Wynn in the first round. They lost receivers Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola. Amendola, a Patriot prototype for a wide out is off to division rival Miami. While Cooks coming off a (1,082) yard season was traded to the Rams. Cooks who was a no show in the SB (rec, 23 yards) while Amendola put in his typical workload, (8 rec, 152 yards). Both bought their own dynamic to the receiving game for New England and will be missed. However Brady picks up new toys in Eric Decker and Cordarrelle Patterson. Patterson who can be a lift in special teams while Decker who was looking for a gig found one. Decker will help fill the void with Edelman out which could pan well for both parties, if Decker does well helps the Patriots but also Decker in the 2019 offseason. TE Rob Gronkowski went to his fifth pro bowl after a (1,084) receiving yards and (7) touchdown season. Gronk back healthy is a good sign for the Patriots moving forward. Wide receiver Chris Hogan returns, with a healthy Gronk, addition of Decker and if Phillip Dorsett has something to say; they may not be house name, but they have depth at the position. At running back, they lose RB Dion Lewis who had over (1,000) all purpose yards. New England drafted the dual threat RB Sony Michel, however knee injuries linger with Michel. With the likes of RB Mike Gillislee and RB Rex Burkhead returning (10 TDs combined), and James White who can do it all out the backfield, it should be once more running back by committee. However, not since 2002 with Corey Dillon has New England had a (1,000) yards rusher. Dillon was traded over from the Bengals like RB Jeremy Hill did this season. Hill bothered by injuries and fell down the depth chart in Cincy comes over to help this Patriots committee rushing attack. Patriots former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia heads off to Indy, head coach Bill Belichick will have more hands on the defense. New England ranked (5th) in total defense last year holding opponents to just (18.5) points per but (29th) in total yards given up. I don't even know how to even explain that one. When your (30th) against the pass and (20th) against the run that could be why. Even with talent like Stephen Gilmore, Patrick Chung, and previous Malcolm Butler in the secondary that is hard to fathom. Butler now in Tennessee; leaves behind the benching prior to the Super Bowl wasn't New England-"esch". Jason McCourty joins his brother Devin McCourty (led team in tackles) in the secondary to hopefully sure up that back end of the defense. DE Trey Flowers led the team with (6.5 sacks). Patriots give up some big plays defensively but a buckle, don't break attitude kept opponents off the field. If WR Kenny Britt can learn the system and follow suit alongside these other wide receivers, Brady is due for another big statistical season which could mean doom for the rest of the AFC East and the AFC as a whole. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (11-5)ADDITIONS - ERIC DECKER, CORDARRELLE PATTERSON, JASON MCCOURTY, ADRIAN CLAYBORN, TRENT BROWN, JEREMY HILL, ISIAH WYNN, SONY MICHEL
DEPARTURES - DION LEWIS, NATE SOLDER, MALCOLM BUTLER, BRANDIN COOKS, DANNY AMENDOLA
MIAMI: Week 14 in 2016 and the Miami Dolphins are rolling to (8-5) record however, that would be the last of franchise QB Ryan Tannehill for the rest of that season and all of 2017. Tannehill suffered a knee injury resulting in season ending ACL surgery. His road to recovery is almost complete, but with some of his roster chopped up from a season ago, how will this effect Tannehill moving forward? Moving forward is what he and the Dolphins must do now. The Dolphins implemented QB Jay Cutler out of retirement last season where they found out it was better off if he had stayed retired. Just a year removed from a wild card berth, Miami found themselves at (6-10) for the 2017 season. Changes were on the horizon, we just didn't know the magnitude. Running back Jay Ajayi gets traded midseason to Philly. Miami ranked (29th) in rushing last season and (28th) in total offense. The Dolphins bring over RB Frank Gore who is back in the "305" from his college days at the"U." Gore, now with his 3rd team has only missed one game in the last (7) seasons. His durability and longevity is the main reason he ranks (5th) in all time rushing yards. Gore played all (16) games for the Colts last season racking up (961) rushing yards. Just production in scoring he has lacked. That is where the third year running back out of Alabama Kenyan Drake performance comes in play. Drake, ran for (634) yards last year and his (4.8 yards per rush) was tied for 6th best among running backs. The (23) year old Drake and the (35) year old Gore will look to split most of the snaps, however with Drake's upside he shall get his far more share of the touches. WR Jarvis Landry depart for Cleveland, Tannehill loses another weapon, his favorite target at wide out. Landry had been the teams leading receiver over the past (3) seasons (987 rec yards / 9 TDs). WR DeVante Parker would emerge to be the new number #1 in his third season. Parker had just one touchdown where fellow wide receiver Kenny Stills ended up with (6). Stills now in his (6th) season in the league, headed into year three with the Dolphins, was second on the team in catches, yards, and touchdowns. He will benefit most over Parker with Landry out of the loop. As well as them bringing in WR Danny Amendola from division rival New England. Amendola will line up in the slot and could replace Landry's role with the team as Tannehill's go to. Amendola has been a security blanket for Brady for years and can be that extra cushion for when Tannehill gets in those moments. Miami defense ranked (29th) in 2017 while they were (26th) in sacks with just (30) and only forced (15 - 9 INTs / 6 Fumbles) turnovers on the defensive side. Defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh didn't contribute much to the Dolphins success defensively. Suh came to Miami in 2015 with hopes of changing the culture of the Dolphins defense. I believe his wallet changed his culture before he played a snap for the Dolphins. His productivity surely didn't match the raw talent we seen in Detroit. Don't worry, DE Cameron Wake has been handling his part to restore the Dolphins defense. Wake with back to back, double-digit sack season has (21) sacks over the last two seasons and has been a constant contributor to the Dolphins defense since entering the league in 2009. Now Miami pairs Cameron Wake up with DE Robert Quinn who they traded for with the Suh move to the LA Rams could do some damage on the defensive line. Quinn brings over his (8.5) sacks a season ago and is poise to bring pressure to opposing quarterbacks. While LB Kiko Alonso continues to anchor down there linebacker core. Second year CB Xavien Howard led the team with (4 INTs) last year. Miami drafted CB Minkah Fitzpatrick in the first round out of Alabama. Fitzpatrick side and speed mesh with Howard's youth and athleticism will be needed going against the likes of Brady two times a year. Tannehill's up and down roller coaster of a career I believe won't take a break yet. Instability with the running game, offensive line blunder, and no true #1 wide receiver may haunt them this season. Their defense will be better than last season I definitely believe that. However, over the (4) seasons Tannehill started for Miami he has been more turnover prone and inconsistent compared to other QB's alongside his stage in their careers. He may have (106 TDs) but compared to his (66 INTs) over a five year span, (avg - 12 INTs) per season. The Dolphins have only been to the playoffs just twice in the last (10) seasons, make that twice in (11) seasons. 2018 PREDICTIONS (5-11)ADDITIONS - ROBERT QUINN, FRANK GORE, DANNY AMENDOLA, GAVIN ESCABOR, ALBERT WILSON, BROCK OSWEILER, MINKAH FITZPATRICK
DEPARTURES - JARVIS LANDRY, JAY AJAYI, MIKE POUNCY, JULIUS THOMAS, JAY CUTLER, NDAMUKONG SUH
NEW YORK JETS: Jets head coach Todd Bowles is (20-28) through four seasons in New York. The turmoil and grind that is just like the city, Bowles has endured during his tenure with the Jets. Certain players with personality issues, no stability at QB, player turnover, all has contributed to the lack of success over the past few seasons. Except for 2015, where the team went (10-6) and had a top 15 offense/defense. A defense that had (39 sacks / 18 INTs) back in 2015. Bowles a defensive mind himself wants his team to get back to the defensive mindset as well and hopefully can duplicate some of the things that made that team successful with the 2018 Jets. Changing the narrative. New York brings in CB Trumaine Johnson. Johnson a veteran in the NFL brings (7) seasons of experience to a young Jets defense. Especially defending the pass where Darron Lee (23) and Jamal Adams (22) were second and third on the team in tackles. Safety Marcus Maye is just (24) as they try and lockdown the latter part of the Jets defense. A Jets defense that ranked (22nd) a season ago while allowing (352.0) total yards per game. LB Demario Davis led the team in tackles and sacks for the season but the Jets didn't match the Saints offer (3 year - $24 million), so he departs for New Orleans. Defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson was a beast on the field when he wanted to be. The Jets parted ways with Wilkerson after last season, especially after the tardiness and tirades that was surrounding the former first round pick, New York had no other alternative. When you were as bad as the Jets were a season ago you get ever so lucky to draft high. New York wanted more than the #6 pick and had their eyes set on their guy the whole time. So the Jets gave away (3) second round picks (2- 2018 / 1- 2019) to the Colts and swapped picks from #6 to #3 in this past draft. Once the smoke cleared and Baker Mayfield and Saquan Barkley was off the board, New York got their guy in former USC Trojan QB Sam Darnold. Darnold looks the part, has the build and the makeup; however not a lot of time playing organized football, inaccuracy at times, and turnover prone as he may be, the future is Sam Darnold for the Jets. Being said the Jets have a current QB situation to unfold this offseason. A training camp battle between QB Josh McCown who returns to the big apple for another season, as well as an audition for QB Teddy Bridgewater. Bridgewater had that epic (11-5) - 2015 season with the Vikings before sitting out all but (1) game over the last two seasons trying to recover from knee surgery. In 2015, also the same year that represents the last time the Jets had a (1,000) yard rusher - (C. Ivory) and (1,000) yard receivers - (B. Marshall / E. Decker). Bilal Powell could crack that mold coming off (772) rushing yards in 2017. He and the new addition of RB Isaiah Crowell should help whoever is at quarterback. Powell looks to be the focal back while Crowell more of a 3rd down and passing situation back. I do like WR Robby Anderson. Anderson played well last year finishing with (63 rec / 94 yards / 7 TDs). The Jets add WR Terrelle Pryor coming off a (1,006) yard receiving season in 2016 with the Browns, only started (2) games in Washington and didn't make much impact while with the Redskins will be looking for redemption in NYC. Pryor and Anderson can both stretch the field with their speed and versatility. The Jets replaced K Chandler Catanzaro with K Cairo Santos in the special teams department. The uncertainty at QB is never a good look. Just for the Jets sake start McCown or Bridgewater first and ease the rookie into it. If Darnold starts off the gate, you will have to let him go through those growing pains the entire season instead of weaning him off the bench. Could be problematic for head coach Todd Bowles job security moving forward even with the team extending him through the 2020 season. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (5-11)ADDITIONS - TEDDY BRIDGEWATER, XAVIER COOPER, ISAIH CROWEL,TRUMAINE JOHNSON, CAIROS SANTOS
DEPARTURES - MUHAMMAD WILKERSON, CHRISTIAN HACKENBERG, MATT FORTE, CHANDELER CATANZARO
BUFFALO: We going party like its 1999, well at least they did in Buffalo as the Bills ended basically a 20 year drought from postseason action. The luck of their draw, it took the final seconds of another regular season game to end in order for the Bills to actually know they were playoff bound. Head coach Sean McDermott finished (9-7) in his first season in upstate NY. Besides the Nathan Peterman experiment gone bad, a very successful first season for Bills fans standards. Trial by error for McDermott leaving a bad taste in his mouth after benching QB Tyrod Taylor in a regular season game in favor for QB Nathan Peterman. Peterman threw (5) interceptions and had one fumble in a single half versus the Chargers that game. Let it be known, the Bills did lose that (24-54) as Peterman strutted a (17.9 QBR). Taylor plays cautious and was a solid backup QB that has experience to start. Now they look towards Peterman - again, AJ McCarron who comes over from Cincinnati, and Josh Allen - the rookie they drafted out of Wyoming. The verdict is still out for QB AJ McCarron. He leaves Cincy with just (3) starts under his belt (6 TDs / 2 INTs). We seen a tiny sample of Nathan Peterman and if Bills fans see him again they will be calling for EJ Manuel at QB. Then there is Josh Allen. Buffalo traded up to the 7th pick for the (6'5, 237 lbs) QB out of Wyoming. Allen, who has the prototype build, a pure pocket passer with the arm to prove it; however, sometimes makes poor decisions especially when moving out of the pocket. His completion percentage scares me as well, no higher than (56%) in college. Between the three QBs, each has a real shot at starting week 1. Whoever it is at quarterback will hopefully try to improve a passing offense that was ranked (31st) with just (176.6) pass yards per. TE Charles Clay led the Bills in receiving yards with (558). WR Zay Jones who was second on the team with receptions and yards had an eventful offseason. Started with getting arrested in a weird incident in LA, however charges were dropped but he also underwent knee surgery. Jones was prime to make another leap into year two. This is especially the case with no clear cut number one receiver in line. Even though Kelvin Benjamin should be. Benjamin who has been highly critical of one Cam Newton, former QB of Benjamin in Carolina. Not room to talk as besides just one season Benjamin has yet to prove he was worth a first round pick and being available on the field has been a concern. The year Newton won NFL MVP, Benjamin was sidelined that season, so he should be careful with his words. Benjamin has not seen a full season nor (1,000) yard receiving season since his rookie year in 2014. With a contract year looming, he will look to make amends of his One constant on the Bills have been none other than LeSean McCoy. Shady now heading into his (10th) season and number four with Buffalo continues to provide a strong rushing attack on offense. The Bills rushing attack ranked (6th) a season ago averaging (126.1) rush yards per game. McCoy rushed for (1,138) rushing yards to go with (6) scores. He also had (59) receptions out of the backfield displaying his versatility on his way to seven consecutive pro bowls. Display was McCoy this offseason as an "open investigation" is still lingering in Atlanta. LeSean McCoy is being accused of child abuse, drug and steroid usage as well as animal cruelty. Allegations this egregious alongside photos of an ex-girlfriend and friend claiming these allegations seemed to be detrimental. However since the case first arose, nothing much of it has been made since. Still an ongoing investigation heading into the regular season. The Bills defense were about middle of the pack. Being said between their run game and Tyrod Taylor's ball security; the defense just came out weekly and played. Not as many sacks as years past they did have some struggles against the run. Buffalo gave up (124.9) rush yards per game. Star Lotulelei joins DE Jerry Hughes and DT Kyle Williams alongside that defensive line. They were able to grab LB Tremaine Edmunds with the 16th pick of the draft. Buffalo used their multitude of picks to stock up on both sides of the ball. Edmunds was first team All-ACC and is a disruptive athlete that can cover all positions, he just needs more reps and time. Their secondary is underrated. Talents like S Micah Hyde, S Jordan Poyer, S Vontae Davis, and CB Tredarius White were some ball hawks. Hyde and Poyer both had (5 INTs) while White added (4). I love Buffalo defensively and their running game with Shady will always keep the Bills in games just up to the QB position to hold suit. Growing pains of inexperienced quarterbacks will take time, especially with lack of production at wide receiver. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (4-12)ADDITIONS - AJ MCCARRON. STAR LOTULELEI, KEENAN ROBINSON, JOSH ALLEN, CHRIS IVORY, TREMAINE EDMUNDS, COREY COLEMAN
DEPARTURES - TYROD TAYLOR, ZAY JONES, RYAN RUSSELL
AFC EAST ANALYSIS: Will the Dolphins get good Ryan Tannehill or bad Ryan Tannehill? Just trying to keep him healthy and upright is a task within itself. No clear cut at running back but the duo of Gore/Drake won't be that bad. Not to mention his favorite target and WR Jarvis Landry is no longer on the team. Locker room may be better with Suh gone, however play on the field will continue to be subpar. New York Jets have 3 quarterbacks in vying for top prize. All 3 have a legit chance to start week 1 while all 3 could all possible start at different points in the season. Being said, not enough consistency at that position. While you have an old QB, a young QB, and an injury away QB; "rebuild" is real in NYC. Todd Bow. Buffalo has a QB situation on hands too. Peterman who is known for the (5) INT half this past season, we have nothing on AJ McCarron who comes over from Cincy but he was good at Alabama and rookie Josh Allen is, lets face it still a rookie. That defense added Star Lotulelei who can be disruptive inside and will keep the Bills in some close games. Shady is the only constant on the team and cannot do it by himself, so hopefully the reemergence of 2014 Kelvin Benjamin happens. Might as well just give the Patriots their 10th straight AFC East title. Turnover on both sides of the ball for New England, however the Pats just keep recycling old/new players and repeat the wins. Edelman may be out the first 4, however Gronk is back at full strength, running back by committee, and remember their defense ranked (5th) last season holding opponents to just (18.5) points per game can only get better. As long as #12 is still in a Patriots uniform, the AFC East belongs to New England.
AFC WEST
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS: Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn had to deal with his team moving, new head coaching gig, and oh yeah, your not the San Diego Chargers anymore your the Los Angeles Chargers. Lynn forgot prematurely what city his Chargers were in last season during a press conference for a quick second. I think to this day, some of us still refer to them as the San Diego Chargers. Anyways his first season with the Chargers was a winning one, going (9-7). The teams first winning season since 2014. QB Phillip Rivers led the Chargers aerial attack as they were the best team in the NFL averaging (276.9) passing yards a game. Rivers in his (15th) season continues to show his brilliance. With (28 TDs / 10 INTs) it was a vast improvement from his (33 TDs / 21 INTs) in 2016. He led the NFL in interceptions in 2016 and that was the second time in Rivers career where he led the league in interceptions. A lot of his turnovers were due to poor offensive line support. Over the years Rivers has not had the best of scenarios standing in the pocket behind his offensive line. He was sacked (36) times in 2016, that was chopped in half to (18) last season. If the offensive line holds up like that in 2018, Rivers will arguably light up the stats once again. He currently ranks in the top 5 all time - (50,348 pass yards / 342 TDs / 64.2% comp / 4171 completions) for active players. Those stats are likely to keep elevating with WR Keenan Allen back. Allen was (3rd) last season amongst wide receivers in receiving yards with (1,393 rec yards) to go along with (102) receptions. Third year TE Hunter Henry had to get season ending ACL surgery this offseason. Henry is a red zone problem. He has (12) touchdowns in limited action over the past two seasons. Los Angeles looks to address the issue, maybe with former future Hall of Famer TE Antonio Gates. Gates who is now at the age of (37) played last season on limited action. The all pro tight end has (110) receiving touchdowns which is first among active players. Whether they reach out to Gates which is very possible, between he and/or TE Virgil Green, will take on the load at tight end. Receivers Tyrell Williams and Travis Benjamin both recorded over (500 rec yards / 4 TDs) each. Los Angeles hopes to get a healthy WR Mike Williams back this season. Last years seventh overall pick was hobbled by back and knee issues all season. Running back Melvin Gordon now entering his fourth season in the pros knows all about injuries. After a torn meniscus in 2015, sprained PCL in 2016, Gordon finally played and started in all (16) games last year cracking the (1,000) yard mark, rushing for (1,105 yards / 8 TDs). Gordon also showed his pass catching abilities hauling in (4) receiving touchdowns. A flourish of weapons at Rivers disposal. This Chargers offense has the potential to peak back into the top 10 in the NFL, just like in Rivers first (8) seasons in the league they were no worst than (5th) in offense efficiency. The Chargers defense went from (29th) in 2016 all the way up to (3rd) last season holding opponents to just (17.0) points a game. However they were horrific against the run as only Washington was worst at stopping the run last season than the Chargers. Surprised especially after (3rd) overall draft pick in 2016, DE Joey Bosa coming off (10.5) sacks in his rookie season led Los Angeles in sacks with (12.5) in 2017. Bosa recently suffered a left foot injury which they are saying currently is minor. He alongside DE Melvin Ingram (10.5) sacks combined for (23) of their (43) sacks last season. Ingram has played all (16) games the last three seasons totaling (29) sacks in the process. While the Chargers secondary was one of the best in the league. All pro corner Casey Hayward is back coming off a (4 INT) season. In 2016 he led the league with (7) interceptions while playing his first season with the Chargers. Hayward is regarded as one of the toughest corners in the game. The Chargers lost CB Jason Verrett this season to a torn Achilles. Verrett coming off a torn ACL a couple of seasons ago has still yet to fully recover and this injury going into the last year of his rookie contract could be costly long term. Los Angeles drafted S Derwin James with the (17th) overall pick and LB Uchenna Nwosa in the second round, as the Chargers are looking to add to their top 5 defense. James a raw talent with all pro safety written all him is very athletic and versatile with his abilities to cover in the pass while also being a great blitzing defensive back. Nwosa who had (19) sacks his last two seasons in college can be an huge addition at stopping the run. Another key to Anthony Lynn success with the Chargers is his assistants in Ken Whisenhunt and Gus Bradley. Both coaches have years of experience and both have been head coaches in the NFL at some point of their coaching careers. Valuable information for Lynn through the eyes and ears of two groomed coaches on offense and defense respectively. With that being said a full balance of offense and defense will keep the Chargers in and winning a lot of games especially if they can stay healthy. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (11-5)ADDITIONS - MIKE POUNCEY, GENO SMITH, DERWIN JAMES, VIRGIL GREEN, CALEB STURGIS
DEPARTURES - ANTONIO GATES, NICK NOVAK, BRANDON OLIVER, TRE BOSTON
KANSAS CITY: Transition. That is the word that would best describe the Kansas Chiefs offseason. The Chiefs after capturing their consecutive AFC West crown and a (53rd straight playoff appearance, transition wouldn't be the word to describe a team like this. However the team decided to move on from QB Alex Smith who spent the last (5) seasons with the Chiefs. Smith, known as a "game manager" has thrown (61 TDs) to just (15 INTs) over the past three seasons in Kansas City. Head coach Andy Reid now in year twenty as a head coach and (6th) with the Chiefs, will look towards the future with QB Patrick Mahomes. Kansas City traded picks and gave up a third and a 2018 first round pick to move up and take Mahomes (10th) overall in the 2017 NFL draft. That definitely made some buzz in KC and especially with a Chiefs team who had been led under the success of Alex Smith the last several seasons. However, Mahomes now in his third NFL season will look to lead a juggernaut of a Chiefs offense that can really elevate and execute beyond their success a season ago. The Chiefs ranked (9th) in rushing and (7th) in passing offense averaging around (375.4) total yards of offense per game. Third round draft pick RB Kareem Hunt had a breakout rookie season. The rookie out of Toledo led the league in rushing with (1,327) rushing yards and was (3rd) in total yards from scrimmage. Hunt shined his first five games. However, gradually Andy Reid and that explosive Chiefs offense went away from Hunt. During the Chiefs first (5) games of the 2017 season the team was (5-0) while Hunt averaged (20 rushes / 121.8 yards per). After the fast start over the next (7) games Hunt only averaged (13 rushes / 45.8 yards per), a drastic downfall after the way the Chiefs started the season. Kansas City went (1-6) over that seven game stretch. Moral of the story, Kareem Hunt rushes (20) or more times, the Chiefs are successful and was (6-0) when Hunt gets that many attempts per game. WR Tyreke Hill aka the human cheetah was a bolt across the field. Hill (1,183 rec yards / 7 TDs) and was a special teams threat as well gave Kansas City numerous options of versatility in his game. Not to mention the steady improvement of TE Travis Kelce. Kelce ran off back to back (1,000) yard seasons with (1,083) and (8) touchdowns, giving any option at quarterback an array of arsenal. Usually a main component to the Chiefs success had been their defense. Kansas City has had a drastic change in the level of play they are getting on the defensive side. They ranked (3rd) in 2015, (7th) in 2016, now ranking (14th) in total defense for 2017. With the Alex Smith trade they did add depth to their secondary with CB Kendall Fuller. Fuller will look to help improve a Chiefs pass defense that ranked (29th) last season. Big part due to S Eric Berry suffering an Achilles injury and missing basically the entire season. Berry who has recently overcame a rare form of cancer is blessed to be on the field and will look to make the best of all his given opportunities. He alongside Daniel Sorenson who led the team in tackles, will look to bring back that heat defensively. Overcoming an Achilles is tough. Even tougher losing fellow secondary players in Marcus Peters and Ron Parker. With their departures that takes away their second leading tackler from a season ago, and Peters who had a team high (5) interceptions; Kansas City will need a strong effort from their secondary in 2018. Another decline was their defensive pressure up front. Linebacker Justin Houston led all Chiefs players with (9.5) sacks. Houston who has battled injuries since his monster (22) sack season in 2014. Those (22) sacks were second in NFL history amongst sacks in a season. Injury plagues over the following (3) seasons has kept Houston limited in action but he seems to be headed to his healthiest season yet. His counterpart in Kansas City was cut this offseason, Tamba Hali. Hali now (34) years old had played all (10) of his NFL seasons with the Chiefs; however with age, battling injuries, and productivity down, Kansas City cut Hali. With Hali being cut, Kansas City took DT Breeland Speaks out of Mississippi State. Speaks is a huge body that brings versatility because he can play multiple positions on that defensive line. Kansas City has the makeup to be a not just good team but a great team. If the defense can plug up some of the missing gaps that they are lacking, hopefully it will help ease the transition for Mahomes and what could be a dynamic offense. Mahomes may have studied behind Alex Smith and under the wing of QB guru Andy Reid, but it will be a transition. The Chiefs first (6) games are brutal - (@ LAC, @ PIT, v SF, @ DEN, v JAX, @ NE). Even Alex Smith would have had struggles fresh out the gates with this schedule. Andy Reid has pushed the Chiefs to the playoffs (4) out of the last (5) seasons, however (1-4) record won't bring a Lombardi back to Arrowhead. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (9-7)ADDITIONS - SAMMY WATKINS, KENDALL FULLER, XAVIER WILLIAMS, BREELAND SPEAKS
DEPARTURES - ALEX SMITH, DARRELLE REVIS, TAMBA HALI, ALBERT WILSON
OAKLAND: The only football new head coach Jon Gruden has been seeing or involved with over the last (9) years was in a booth on Monday Night Football for ESPN. The one time Oakland Raiders coach from (1998-2001) has resurfaced back into the NFL landscape and back with the Raiders. Oakland giving Gruden basically the house, the car, and the whole farm to return to the sidelines. Oakland inked Gruden down for a get this, (10 year - $100 million) dollar contract, which is the longest coaching deal in NFL history. Gruden is the second highest paid coach behind you know a guy with (5) Lombardi Trophies to his name Bill Belichick in New England. Which means Gruden is still making more than Pete Carroll (SEA), Sean Payton (NOLA), and Mike Tomlin (PIT). All proven winners. Back to Gruden who has been to and won a Super Bowl back in 2003 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A Super Bowl some in the game say he cake walked into and basically inherited an already made SB team from Tony Dungy who he had succeeded. That is neither here nor there, jury is still out on Gruden? Overall (54% win percentage) as a head coach, record of (95-81) in (11) seasons between (OAK - (38-26) and TB - (57-55)) typically isn't the resume I am trying to hire as head coach. Definitely not long term like this either. The history linked between these two outweighed everything else in the end. General manager Reggie McKenzie and Gruden have yet to see eye to eye as this was an ownership move to hire not front office. Gruden linked as a QB mastermind has a developing and rising star in QB Derek Carr. Carr back in 2016 who started that season (12-3) and was positioning himself as a MVP candidate posting (3,937 pass yards) (28 TDs) to just (6 INTs); went down in week 15 with a broken fibula. The Raiders would make it to the playoffs before losing to the Houston Texans in the wild card round. Last season Carr (3,496 pass yards / 22 TDs / 13 INTs) missed just one game with back issues however the Raiders finished the season (6-10). Trying to keep their $125 million dollar man healthy and upright is a major key moving forward. The quarterback signed a (5 year - $125 million dollar extension to remain with the Raiders last summer. The Raiders ranked (23rd) in offense scoring just (18.8) points per, compared to in 2016 where they finished (7th), while scoring (26.0) points per game. Not a burst from the rushing attack a season ago, as RB Marshawn Lynch looks to redeem himself. Lynch now in his (12th) season still managed to rush for (891 yards / 7 TDs). A better output than the previous back Latavius Murray. Lynch will be aiming for a (1,000) yard season, not since 2014 has Marshawn cracked that mark, when he was with Seahawks and did it (4) consecutive years. The Raiders did grab RB Doug Martin, who when healthy can be a spark. Martin ran for over (1,400) yards his rookie season in 2012 and than again 2015. Only knock with Martin is inconsistent, unreliable, and some health concerns make you cautious of the (7th) year back out of Boise State. Amari Cooper now entering his (4th) season took a step back in his production in 2017. Just (680 rec yards / 7 TDs). Cooper knows the offense goes on how far he and Carr go together. They will look to get back on the same page this upcoming season. Oakland lost WR Michael Crabtree to the Ravens however gained long time Packer WR Jordy Nelson. Nelson production fell off last season with Aaron Rodgers out for the season, however Nelson at age (33) can still ball out. Before Rodgers injury, Nelson had logged in (4,095) receiving yards and (35) touchdowns over a (3) year span. I like TE Jared Cook (688 rec yards). Now in the second season together, the two should have more of a chemistry on the touchdown sides of things. With the (15th) overall pick they went offensive line with Kolton Miller out of UCLA. Miller will give more depth along an already decent offensive line. Oakland surprised many with their second round pick, nose tackle PJ Hall out of Sam Houston State. Hall recorded (42) sacks during his collegiate career. If he is capable of playing to the potential he can, look out now. If he can provide a presence like he did in college and convert it to the pros, he could be a stable for years within that defense. Not to mention quite beneficial for pass rushers Bruce Irvin and Khalil Mack. Speaking of Mack, still a no show at camp. Mack and Oakland are at disagreements over contract negotiations. Mack is seeking somewhere between ($19-$22) million per. After watching Von Miller of the Broncos receive a nice lump sum including ($70 million) guaranteed, the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year is looking to cash in. It is all on GM Reggie McKenzie and new head coach Jon Gruden and company to get something done. Word is Gruden and Mack have not even spoke yet, which is not a good thing that Raiders fans want to hear. Now going into the 2018, he was first in sacks on the team (10.5) and third in tackles with (78) in 2017. Irvin had (8) sacks himself as he and Mack were the Raiders main source of pass rush last year. They upgraded at some areas in their secondary but could use more help. Additions like cornerbacks Daryl Worley and Leon Hall should improve Oakland's secondary woes. Hopefully behind a stronger pass rush they can help out their secondary who had just (5) interceptions the whole season, worst in the NFL. However, you need your all pro Khalil Mack obviously for some pass rush. Gruden already trying to be the enforcer, it's not 2006 anymore Jon, you working with a different group of young men with different mentalities and views, so we shall see if this marriage between Gruden/Raiders will last (10) years, the first year though. 2018 PREDICITIONS - (8-8)ADDITIONS - JORDY NELSON, DOUG MARTIN, PJ HALL, DARYL WORLEY, DERRICK JOHNSON, MARTAVIUS BRYANT
DEPARTURES - MICHAEL CRABTREE, MARQUETTE KING, DAVID AMERSON, SEBASTIAN JANIKOWSKI, CORDARRALLE PATTERSON
DENVER: Not that long ago, the Denver Broncos had a temporary reign alongside the New England Patriots in the AFC. Five straight playoff appearances, five straight AFC West titles, and not to mention two Super Bowl trips including a 2015 Super Bowl victory led by then QB Peyton Manning. Manning has since then retired and the Broncos have rinsed and recycled through (3) quarterbacks including a run with all (3) last season. QB Trevor Siemian (12 TDs / 14 INTs) and (5-5) record as a starter, QB Brock Osweiler (0-4 record / 55% completion), and QB Paxton Lynch (0-2) as a starter. Siemian found ways to win, however it was not splash worthy. So general manager John Elway went out and go his guy, QB Case Keenum. Keenum after leading the Minnesota Vikings to the playoffs and a (12-4) record including postseason. Keenum after posting (3,547 pass yards / 22 TDs / 7 INTs) in 2017, earned a pro bowl an earned trust from the Broncos with a (2 year - $35 million) dollar contract. This will be Keenum's (5th) team in (9) years coming off his most productive season in his career, he was top (10) in passer rating, passing yards, completions, and completion percentage (67.6%). He will be Denver's fourth QB since Manning retired and looks to improve an offense that was ranked (27th) a season ago. Inconsistent play at quarterback was the result of this. As well as a lack of scoring just (18.7) points per game. Running back CJ Anderson departs for Carolina. Anderson had (1,007) rushing yards but just (3) touchdowns. Denver only had (8) total rushing touchdowns all season. RB Devontae Booker entering his third year seems to be poised to take over as top running back. Denver drafted RB Royce Freeman in the (3rd) round of this past years draft. Freeman a solid, natural, strong running back just lacks natural burst and explosiveness. Keenum had plenty of weapons in Minneapolis. Wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Saunders each come into season (8) in the NFL with the same capabilities of play making as (Thielen / Diggs) produced with Keenum in Minnesota. Thomas streak of five consecutive (1,000) yard seasons ended with (949 rec yards / 5 TDs) while Saunders streak of three consecutive (1,000) yard seasons ended with (555 rec yards / 2 TDs) in 2017. TE Virgil Green left in free agency as the Chargers drafted WR Courtland Sutton out of SMU. Sutton has size at (6'3, 215lbs), potential basketball frame gives him an advantage over defenders, however lack of speed and route running could hinder the young (2nd) round pick. Denver went defense in the first round grabbing DE Bradley Chubb fifth overall in the NFL draft. Chubb has huge upside and wasn't just the best defensive player in the draft but one of the best overall graded talents coming into the NFL. Chubb will look to add to a defensive front that his been good over the years. They ranked (5th) against the run giving up less than (90.0) rush yards per game and less than (200.0) passing yards per game which was (4th) in 2017. Chubb lined up alongside LB Von Miller could be a quarterbacks nightmare if they can get pressure early and often. Miller led the team with (10) sacks last season, his lowest output since he only had five sacks in 2013. Since entering the NFL in 2011, Miller has (83.5) sacks and has averaged double-digits in sacks per season. Denver sack production has went down of late just (33) sacks compared to (2015 - 52 / 2016 - 42). They also didn't have many takeaways either. CB Aqib Talib who had been with the team the last four seasons heads to the Rams. Chris Harris Jr., returns in the secondary and will be key for their success to help out their front. LB Brandon Marshall led Denver in tackles and played all (16) games in 2017. Bradley Roby and Tremaine Brock with the addition of S'ua Cravens from Washington will try to restore that back half of a Denver Broncos defense trying to return to playoff caliber. Head coach Vance Joseph knows it will be hard again to building into a playoff contender after the (5-11) season last year. Better play at QB helps him in improving that record. CJ Anderson may be gone but a running back by committee could be the move in 2018. Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Saunders will have bounce back seasons with Keenum under center. Denver will be better than (5-11) but how much better? 2018 PREDICTIONS - (9-7)
ADDITIONS - CLINT MCDONALD, TRAMAINE BROCK, S'UA CRAVENS, MARQUETTE KING, JARED VELDHEER, BRADLEY CHUBB, COURTLAND SUTTON
DEPARTURES - AQIB TALIB, CJ ANDERSON, BROCK OSWEILER
AFC WEST ANALYSIS: Oakland paid a pretty nice amount to bring their coach in, how about the players on the team? Khalil Mack needs a contract as much as the Raiders need to improve on both sides of the ball. A healthy David Carr and a solid rushing attack will keep the Raiders in the hunt all season. Whether their defense is at full strength will determine whether Khalil Mack is on the field. The Denver Broncos have changed faces offensively and defensively. Rookies and veterans added and departed will determine how far this team goes. The defense should be in line to be as good as they have been in the past. However the offense is an unknown. No true running back, a well needed bounce back season for their receivers and is Keenum the guy? Denver offensive line must improve, gave up (3rd) most sacks to opposing teams in 2017. Kansas City has started the Patrick Mahomes era. Mahomes has the talent an ability to push KC over the top. They have the running back in Hunt, receivers in Hill/Watkins/Kelce and a mid level defense. Mahomes first season could see some bumps and bruises. Alex Smith didn't turn the ball over, while Mahomes is a gun slinger. He will be good, but in his first season; is it asking for too much? I like the Chargers this year. I have been a Phillip Rivers fan dating back to his NC State days. If Melvin Gordon can stay healthy alongside his many options at receiver, an optimistic offense is in store. Defense can be top (5) once more. That also relies on their health which has been a huge concern over the years. That potential is their for Los Angeles, just unleashing it is the next step.
AFC SOUTH
JACKSONVILLE: Welcome to "Sacksonville" population - (55); number of sacks that the Jacksonville Jaguars bodied up last season. That (55) is only second to the Steelers who led the NFL with (56). The same Steelers team the Jags took down in the divisional round of the AFC playoffs a season ago. Jacksonville earned their first playoff berth since 2007. Head coach Doug Marrone in his first full season as head coach inherited a team that was built and predicated on running the football and hard defense. Jacksonville drafted rookie RB Leonard Fournette (4th) overall in the 2017 NFL draft. As a rookie he only played (13) games accounting for (1,040 rush yards / 9 TDs). Minor injuries tried to hinder the star running back however he kept pushing along. The Jags ranked (1st) in rushing yards last season with (141.4) rushing yards per game. Fournette was the major key towards their rushing attack as well as a good offensive line. Jaguars QB Blake Bortles, before last season was under duress so much he was sacked for league highs back in (2014 -55 times / 2015 - 52 times), an over a (3 year) span sacked (140) times until last season. No quarterback will last with that type of offensive line, so a vast improvement in 2017, as they upgraded for 2018 to be even better. Offensive guard Andrew Norwell comes over from Carolina. Norwell has been a staple in that Panther o-line comes to the Jags in hopes of helping Fournette rush for even more yards this season. Norwell and last years (34th) pick OT Cam Robinson will anchor down that left side. Fournette rushing abilities helps take away from disabilities that have been at QB. Blake Bortles now in his fifth season threw for (3,687) yards with (21 TDs / 13 INTs). His (13) interceptions thrown was the lowest he has thrown career wise. Passing yards and passing touchdowns went down only due to the Fournette factor. However, no main target at wide out has hurt. Wide receivers Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns are now in Chicago and Dallas respectively. Jacksonville losses to receivers that have had (1,000) yard seasons in the past. WR Marquise Lee had (56) receptions, WR DeDe Westbrook provides a spark in special teams as well while WR Keenan Allen will look to be either #1 or #2 receiver moving forward. Allen finished with the most receiving yards on the team with (748) and averaged (17.8) yards per catch. His coming out party came the last month of the season where he averaged (98 rec yards per) on just (4.5 receptions) and a (TD) per game down that final stretch. The Jags added TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins and WR Donte Moncrief. Seferian-Jenkins if he can stay healthy and out of trouble could be a good asset as an additional threat in the passing game. At (6'5, 262 lbs) he is a big target. While Moncrief hasn't yet established himself as a #1 receiver, just having depth at that position is a plus for Bortles. Having a defense like he did in 2017 is a "MAJOR KEY" alert. Just like the Vikings, Jacksonville was dominant all season on the defensive side of the ball. The Jaguars ranked (#2 - overall defense), (#1 - pass defense 169.9 per), (#2 - 21 INTs), and (#2 - 55 sacks). Jacksonville has impact players on each level of their defense. DE Calais Campbell may be (31) years old, but he had the most sacks (14.5) on the team an in his career. DE Yannick Ngakoue (12.0) sacks a season ago opposite of Campbell. Ngakoue now has (20) sacks in two NFL seasons. DE Dante Fowler (8.0) sacks, just another part of their rotation on their defensive line. DT Malik Jackson plugs up the middle with another (8.0) sacks and you can see how Jacksonville ended up second in sacks. Linebackers Telvin Smith and Myles Jack led them in tackles. Jack who had the major knee surgery in college proclaims he is at full strength and even better after playing and starting a full (16) games in 2017. While the secondary needs no introduction. They are the limelight of their defense like the wide receiver is to an offense. Cornerbacks and all pros Jalen Ramsey (4 INTs) and AJ Bouye (6 INTs) led the charge. While safeties Barry Church and Tashaun Gipson added a total of (8) more interceptions as the bulk of their turnover havoc came from their secondary. If their defense is churning, the Jags are winning. I like the addition of their draft picks, first round DT Taven Bryan in the mix at defensive line and WR DJ Chark, who has speed (4.3 - 40 yard dash) who is very fast in the open field but just needs add more weight going against bigger defenders. Huge key factor is keeping their defense intact. If they stay healthy and together long term, the future is as bright as the sun in Jacksonville for the Jags. Keeping their success with their younger players mixed with their veteran leaders on the defensive line is a must. Bortles development is the most concerning thing long term for the Jaguars to experience the ultimate success of not just winning their division, not just winning a couple playoff games, but ultimately winning a Super Bowl. 2018 PREDICITIONS - (11-5)ADDITIONS - ANDREW NORWELL, DONTE MONCRIEF, AUSTIN SEFERIAN-JENKINS
DEPARTURES - ALLEN ROBBINSON, ALLEN HURNS
INDIANAPOLIS: The Indianapolis Colts finished last season (4-12) and missed the playoffs for a third consecutive season. Followed that behind two (8-8) campaigns and you see why the Colts as a team had to move in a new direction firing then head coach Chuck Pagano. Pagano had been the top guy in charge since the Colts drafted their franchise quarterback Andrew Luck in 2012. Now Frank Reich gets a crack it. This will be Reich first head coaching job since help leading the Philadelphia Eagles to the Super Bowl last year. Reich was the offensive coordinator last season as he alongside Doug Pederson helped groom Carson Wentz and that Eagles offense elite enough to win the Super Bowl. Granite, Reich may not have the same talent, but it's the NFL, he has some talent. Starting with his quarterback Andrew Luck. Luck returns to Indianapolis after missing the entire 2017 season due to shoulder surgery. This has been an ongoing sage for the young QB. It was said that this recent surgery stems from a minor shoulder injury in 2015. Since than it has continued to linger forcing Luck into a quick surgery post 2016 season. That didn't make matters better by the time he was even eligible to even practice after he was ruled out the first (6) weeks of the 2017 season, team doctors and physicians seen setbacks in Luck's throwing rhythm and velocity. Luck then goes on IR in November of 2017 as the Colts suffer their first losing season since 2011, the season before Luck was taking #1 overall. However things have slowly changed in the favor of the Colts franchise QB as this past June he was finally able to throw the ball and looked more fluent doing so. Indianapolis knows when Luck is on the field he has produced a winning product. Luck is (43-27) during his tenure in the league now. Luck is also (3-3) in the postseason, taking the Colts to the playoffs his first (3) seasons. So when healthy damage can be done from (6th) year QB out of Stanford. Indianapolis went from (8th - 2016) to (30th - 2017) in offense. RB Frank Gore may be gone but he was a staple in this offense for the past few season, but an aging Gore, his production was not the same. Indy ranked (22nd) in rushing. They went out at grabbed QB Jacoby Brissett which I believe is a solid and strong backup. However being thrown to the wolves behind a mediocre offensive line isn't going to help the growth of any QB. Brissett started (15) games last season going (4-11), passing for barely (3,098) yards and just (13 TDs / 7 INTs). That lack of passing attack ranked them (30th) in offensive passing efficiency and just (13) touchdowns in why they were second to last in touchdowns with just (25) total scores on the year. One good thing from Brissett is he is patience, doesn't turn the ball over a lot and can scramble as he had (4) rushing touchdowns in 2017. The Colts also had (5) draft picks within the first (64) picks this year. Including taking offensive guard Quentin Nelson (6th) overall. They went offensive line in the second round as well as taking three interior defensive lineman to help rebuild the Colts defense, inside out. The defense was ranked (30th) too in 2017 as they lose CB Vontae Davis and LB Barkevious Mingo during the offseason. Defensive end Jabaal Sheard led the way with (5.5) sacks of their league low (25) sacks. Indianapolis has not had a strong pass rush presence since DE Robert Mathis NFL leading (19.5) sacks back in 2013. Defensive tackle Jonathan Hankins returns in his (2nd) year with the Colts after playing with the Giants. Hankins will look to get some help from the edge rushers Indy drafted this year. While the safety they drafted a year ago Malik Hooker battles injuries and getting on the field, as that secondary is completely different. The likes of Vontae Davis will be missed because when healthy he is as good as most safeties in the league and was a leader on that defense for years. QB Andrew Luck is still the catalysts for this team and his health is the teams main priority. If he remains cleared for play this season, that passing game should evolve. TE Jack Doyle has become a favorite with Brissett on the offense to say the least. Doyle led the team with receptions at (80) to go with a career high (690) receiving yards and (4 TDs). Doyle will be joined by fellow TE Eric Ebron. Ebron comes over from Detroit where he spent his first (4) NFL seasons. What is pivotal is that connection that Luck has with WR T.Y Hilton. Hilton came off a career and NFL season high (1,448 rec yards) in 2016. He just missed cracking the thousand mark in 2017 with (966) receiving yards and (4 TDs). T.Y had went for (1,000) yards for (4) straight seasons. Hilton is a star when given a proper QB to get him the ball. Excellent speed, great route running ability, and the fact he gets yards after catch will force teams to over help. Just the fact the Colts don't have many other offensive weapons after that and they did add more depth at offensive line so hopefully Luck won't be running for dear life. No running game will put the ball in Luck's hands more than he anticipates coming off injury doesn't spell winning recipe for me. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (4-12)ADDITIONS - ERIC EBRON, MATT SLAUSON, QUENTIN WILSON
DEPARTURES - VONTAE DAVIS, FRANK GORE, BARKEVIOUS MINGO, JONATHAN HANKINS
TENNESSEE: Can't tell Tennessee Titans fans that they aren't glad the Bucs drafted Jameis Winston over Marcus Mariota. The Titans took Mariota (2nd) overall in the 2015 NFL Draft. Mariota does it all, throws the ball, runs the ball, even in the playoffs catches touchdowns; off his own pass! Mariota simply does it all for the Titans offense. QB Marcus Mariota went for (3,232 pass yards / 13 TDs / 15 INTs) in 2017. He also rushed for (312 yards and 5 scores). After going (3-13) in his first full season, Mariota has led the Titans to finish (9-7) his following two seasons. That (9-7) record was good enough to help Tennessee reach its first playoff appearance since 2008. The Titans had seemed to follow truth on bringing back former head coach Mike Murlarkey. That changed quickly as Murlarkey is out and Vrabel is in. You know Vrabel, Mike Vrabel, the one time linebacker for the New England Patriots. Vrabel will get his first crack as head coach with the Titans this season. Vrabel comes over from Houston where he was the defensive coordinator last season. However, do not let those stats fool you that he brings over from the Texans. The were injury plagued all season, but Vrabel has his work cut out for him as he tries to lead a Titans team that was midway statistical both offensively and defensively. So what gets Tennessee over the hump? Solidifying offensive tackle Taylor Lewan, was step one. Lewan a former first round pick in 2014 and the Titans agreed upon a (5 year - $80 million) dollar contract with $50 million in guaranteed money. It is the highest paid contract for an offensive lineman in NFL history. His tough demeanor on the offensive line brings that edge to the Titans. An edge that RB Derrick Henry carries on his shoulders. The (6'3, 247 lbs) running back entering his (3rd) season with Tennessee is coming off (744 rush yards / 5 TDs). His stature alone is intimidating as he averaged (4.2) yards per carry in 2017. While in the playoffs he averaged (5.3) yards per carry which led all running backs in the postseason. The more carries Henry gets the more energized he seems to run. Tennessee added RB Dion Lewis from the Patriots. Lewis who led New England in rushing a season ago (896 rush yards / 6 TDs) gives the Titans a bigger advantage in their two-back sets. Lewis pass catching abilities along with Henry will give them a dynamic in the backfield they haven't seen yet, especially with the legs of Mariota. The Titans ranked (22nd) in touchdowns in 2017 with only (14) touchdowns coming from the passing game. Last years fifth overall pick WR Corey Davis will look to prove he was worth the high draft pick after missing majority of his rookie season with hamstring injuries. WR Rishard Matthews was second on the team with (795 rec yards). The receivers will need to give Mariota that extra boost to take their offense to the next level. Tight end Delanie Walker hasn't seemed to have had that problem of late. The always reliable Walker led Tennessee in receptions and yards. Walker signed a (2 year) extension to stay with the Titans. Good news for Mariota as Walker is his main target and go to when things fall apart and he can't scramble with his legs. Losing WR Eric Decker means, someone else will need to step up in production on the offensive side of things. Defensively some upgrades were made especially in the secondary. Tennessee added CB Malcolm Butler from the Patriots. Butler now in his third seasons adds to a secondary that already has safety Kevin Byard. Byard tied for an NFL best with (8) interceptions. As well as Adoree Jackson should be in line for a good season. Linebackers Derrick Morgan and Brian Orakpo had (7.5) and (7.0) sacks respectively. Both were vital parts of a team who had accumulated (43) sacks in 2017. That linebacker core was solid all season. LB Wesley Woodyard led the team in tackles with (121) and (5.0) sacks. It starts up front though. Another reason they went defense in the draft and drafting LB Rashaan Evans from Alabama. He is a big linebacker with speed to go with it. Almost a hybrid type that comes from a winning culture in college. Evans has the intangibles to jump right in and get started with a stacked and sound Titans defense. Whether the Titans make it back to the postseason yet is too hard to tell. They seem to have a more balance team this upcoming season. 2018 PREDICTIONS - (8-8)
ADDITIONS - MALCOLM BUTLER, DION LEWIS
DEPARTURES - ERIC DECKER
HOUSTON: The 2017 season was the first season under head coach Bill O'Brien where the Houston Texans didn't finish the season with a winning record. After three consecutive seasons at (9-7) and back to back AFC South crowns in 2015 and 2016; key injuries to players on both sides of the ball resulted in a (4-12) record. The Texans did not have a first round pick in this years draft due to them giving it away last year in a package. A well worth package, moving up from (25th) to (12th) grabbing former Heisman Trophy winner and College National Champion QB Deshaun Watson. Watson didn't start week 1 however he did get a chance to showcase his talents week 2. The (22) year old out of Clemson shined over the next (6) weeks going (3-3) as a starter. He won NFL offensive player of the week honors in week (4) after putting up (25/34, 283 pass yards, 4 TDs, INT, rush TD) all with a (125.0) passer rating. As well as two games; vs Kansas City (261 pass yards, 5 TDs) not to mention 0 picks. The other, Seattle (402 pass yards, 4 TDs, 3 INTs), but the outcome in both games resulted in the Texans losing. However the week that followed on a non contact play in practice, Watson suffers a torn ACL and is done for the season. At that time Watson had recorded (1,699 pass yards / 19 TDs / 8 INTs, 269 rush yards). Houston was averaging (30.9) points per game, which was the highest in the league during that stretch. That's right (19) touchdowns tied for first in the NFL at that time and a QBR of (81.9) was the highest amongst any player in their first (7) games of the season over the last ten seasons. So the gamble to move up and take Watson after a small sample seemed to be the right move for 2017. Now in 2018, Watson seems to be back on track to start week 1 for Houston. You know who else seems to be back on track for week 1 is their face of the franchise defensive end JJ Watt. Watt the 2017 Walter Payton Man of the Year award recipient, is hoping to return to his 3 Defensive Player of the Year level coming off a leg injury, missing the majority of the 2017 season. Watt has played just (8) games over the past two seasons after missing most of 2016 with a back injury. His production on the field cannot go unnoticed. Entering the league in 2011, from there through 2015, Watt was undeniably the best defensive player and sometimes the best overall athlete on the field. He totaled (74.5) sacks, including (20.5 - 2012 and 17.5 -2015) both led the NFL and another (20.5) sacks in 2014. He racked up (371) total tackles, (15) forced fumbles and a defensive touchdown. Not to mention (3) offensive touchdowns all in 2014. Houston ranked just (25th - 2016 and 23rd - 2017) in sacks over the last two years. Watt presence has been missed as the Texans ranked (32nd) in scoring defense allowing opponents (27.3) points per contest. DE Jadeveon Clowney led the team in sacks last season with (9.5), his highest total yet. Addition of S Tyrann Mathieu should bolster that secondary. Mathieu played a full season for the first time in his career. Another player when healthy can be a difference maker. Houston only has (11) interceptions in 2017 and ranked (23rd) in pass defense. Linebackers Zach Cunningham and Bernadrick McKinney led the way in tackles while safety Andre Hall had (3) interceptions. Houston drafted S Justin Reid from Stanford. Reid was a ball hawk and plays smart for the position as he was an All-Pac 12. Reid lacks speed that could slow his growth. Overall their defense improves alone with Watt back in the rotation. With Watson back, Houston should improve from their (21st) rank pass offense. WR DeAndre Hopkins will loo to benefit most off Watson's return. Hopkins put up (13) receiving touchdowns, most in the NFL in 2017, being thrown the ball to by (3) different quarterbacks. He also had (1,378 rec yards on 96 catches). The dude can flat out play posting his third (1,000) yard season. Nuke continues to produce no matter who is tossing him the ball. Schaub, Hoyer, Watson, Fitzpatrick, Savage, Osweiler; different QBs, same results, Nuke just balled. While upgrades to the offensive line should have RB Lamar Miller in store for a thousand yard season. Miller had (888 rush yards / 3 TDs) a season ago. Miller should help Houston improve on their (115.1) rushing yards per game. Hopefully WR Will Fuller will get back to his form after knee surgery last season. Fuller recorded (269 rec yards / 7 TDs) in his first four games alone last season. Largely due in part to QB Deshaun Watson under center. That chemistry he developed between both Fuller and Hopkins will pay huge dividends this season if all can stay healthy. Concerns at tight end, with TE C.J Fiedorowicz left this offseason as they drafted a tight end late in the third round. Linebacker Brian Cushing who was another one of those when healthy, whose presence an impact was there has departed as well. A vast improvement from 2017 to 2018 and a good chance for the Texans to compete for the AFC South as well position themselves for a postseason run. 2018 PREDICITIONS - (11-5)ADDITIONS - TYRANN MATHIEU,
DEPARTURES - BRIAN CUSHING
AFC SOUTH ANALYSIS: Andrew Luck return is a huge boost and morale boost for the Colts in 2018. Hopefully he and TY Hilton can reconnect the chemistry they have had before. However a porous running game combined with a questionable defense is not what Luck needs coming off shoulder surgery. Offensive line play will need to step up but the Colts are still pieces away from playoff form. Tennessee snuck in last year with a playoff berth and win at the hands of Marcus Mariota. Mariota entering year number four has a formidable rushing attack, mid level receivers but a defense that I believe can battle with the best. From the front seven to ball hawks in the secondary, if the defense keeps them in games, Mariota can help them win games. JJ Watt back after missing (24) games the last two seasons. I love the Houston Texans or maybe it's with my obsession over QB Deshaun Watson. Watson can be one of the best quarterbacks in the game, proven in a small sample in 2017. He is a proven winner with a winners mentality that by itself can carry a team deep into the postseason. They should battle all season with Jacksonville for the top spot. I still believe this is the Jags division to lose. Even with Bortles being the worst QB out of the (4) teams who play in the AFC South,, the old saying goes, "defense wins championships." Jacksonville was a few plays and some bonehead penalties away from being SB bound last season, what changes that for 2018?
AFC: 1 - PITTSBURGH (12-4) - The Pittsburgh Steelers make it to the playoffs just about every year, to not make it to the playoffs. The Steelers have the running back, the wide receiver, quality play at QB, a defense to go with it and a proven head coach. For some reason can't make that next jump. Big Ben time is limited and Steeler Nation knows this. The time is now for Ben and Tomlin to take Pittsburgh in hopes of hoisting another Lombardi.
2 - JACKSONVILLE (11-5) - The Jags for sure have the fire power defensively its just offensively challenged they have been. Fournette rushing attack allows some flexibility within the offense, however the QB is the most important player on the field. We watched strong defenses in the past carry non appealing quarterback teams to the promise land. Does Jacksonville have enough defense to carry them all the way?
3 - NEW ENGLAND (11-5) - I definitely see the Patriots tapering off a bit, just not too much. A tough schedule for the Pats all season, that is out of division tough. They will yet again run away with the AFC East and may lose only one game in the division. Brady has numerous receivers to get the ball too, but more turnover than usual on their roster could be bad. Figuratively speaking, the harder the challenge for Brady, the easier the road to the Super Bowl. Go figure.
4 - LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (11-5) - As I stated earlier, I like Phillip Rivers and the team he has around him. Plenty of potential on both sides of the ball. A dominating pass rush combined with stellar secondary play keeps you in games. A strong running game countered with a flourish of receivers at disposal could finally get the Chargers back into contention.
***IN THE HUNT***
WILD CARD - HOUSTON - (10-6/11-5) - HEALTH!!! If the Texans can stay healthy the sky is the limit. JJ Watt and Jadeveon Clowney manning that defensive line should bring their sack totals up. A QB throwing Nuke Hopkins the ball is instant success. Additions to offensive line should keep Watson upright and establish the run to keep defenses honest. HEALTH! HEALTH! HEALTH!
WILD CARD - DENVER (9-7) - Case Keenum is the man in Denver but will he have the same results as in Minnesota. Lack of running game and offensive line struggles could hinder the Broncos. However Bradley Chubb and Von Miller together will give you added W's.
WILD CARD - KANSAS CITY (9-7) - Year one with Pat Mahomes won't be all laughs and giggles, the QB will go through his struggles. Will the Chiefs overcome them early or will it be too late?
WILD CARD - TENNESSEE (8-8/9-7) - Titans have a touch schedule in a more competitive AFC South. Upgraded roster but everyone in the division upgraded as well.
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