With the NFL schedules fully released and all game dates and bye weeks decided, it is time to take a look at the teams and see how they will shape out. For this fourth part we will take a look at the AFC East, make record predictions, and explain our thoughts related to each team.
Dolphins (11-6)
The Dolphins, along with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, have steadily improved over the past couple years, in large part thanks to Tua's limited injuries. Combine that with one of, if not the best WR duo in the league (Jaylen Waddle + Tyreek Hill) and the Dolphins have everything it takes to capture the division title this year. RBs Raheem Mostert and Devon Achane should hold down the fort, meaning the only question mark is on the defense. If they are able to hold teams even somewhat in check, then Miami should be able to breeze past this weaker-than usual division, and gain priceless home-field advantage in at least the first round of the playoffs.
Bills (9-8)
It will be interesting to see how Josh Allen and co. adjust to the absence of now Texans WR Stefon Diggs. They have solid young RB talent in James Cook, who also offers good hands out of the backfield. As of right now, though, their WR1 battle consists of Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, and Curtis Samuel. Yikes. They will need to heavily rely on 2nd year TE Dalton Kincaid to provide mass production, as well as consistent blocking along the offensive line, with a much improved defense. It's a huge void to fill, but this team might just have the right pieces to fill it.
Jets (7-10)
Even with a healthy Aaron Rodgers, I don't consider this New York team a contender. I can't exactly say what he problem is, as they have great players on both offense and defense. Rodgers has a blossoming, potential pro-bowler WR1 in Garret Wilson and a veteran WR2 in Mike Williams. He has an explosive RB in Breece Hall, and a defense that has proven to hold down the fort, so I don't exactly know why I don't trust them. This team has the potential, but I just don't see it. They could easily seize a latter wild-card spot and Rodgers could work his playoff magic, and the Jets could be back on top in no time. Anything is possible, but I have this Jets season ending in heartbreak (again).
Patriots (4-13)
It's clearly still a building year for Drake Maye and this New England squad. They do not have anywhere near enough supporting pieces to stay in contention in a packed AFC East division, so any sort of progress is good news for them. Still, I don't expect any major improvements with this team, unless Rhamondre Stevenson breaks out in a big way behind a sub-par offensive line. It will be a chance for management to see the raw talent of Drake Maye without any major playmakers, and to see how he handles pressure in the big leagues. It will be interesting, and even though they won't be contenders, they will be a team I closely follow.
Eli Knight
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