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Thank you for visiting our 2009-2010 NFL Season Preview. Below, we have all your favorite NFL team predictions and previews for the 2009-2010 NFL season. We give you an in-depth look into all 32 NFL teams and how their upcoming season is going to unfold. Analysis includes team previews based on last season's performance, draft results, returning/departing impact players, coaching changes, schedule difficulty, and overall team chemistry. Please enjoy our 2009-2010 NFL Season preview and let us know if you have any questions.
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 Let's begin by taking a peek at
the NFC and how each team stacks up
against their division.
☞ NFC South Preview & Predictions
Atlanta Falcons Predictions: Projected Record = 11-5 (NFC South Champ)
Key Roster Additions: TE Tony Gonzalez, C Jeremy Newberry, LB Mike Peterson
Key Roster Losses: LB Mike Boley, LB Keith Brooking, CB Domonique Foxworth, DT Grady Jackson
Key Draft Picks: (DT) Peria Jerry, (S) William Moore
Look out, this team just got a lot better with the addition of TE Tony Gonzalez. Further, their pension for defense should pay dividends as they spent 6 of their first 7 draft picks on the defensive front. The loss of Linebackers Brooking and Boley will hurt, however Mike Peterson and rookie Spencer Adkins should fill in nicely.
The Falcons will rely heavily on the arm of Matt Ryan who had a standout rookie season in 2008. That confidence he built should only work for his advantage with a team that has solid offensive weapons including TE Tony Gonzelez, WR Roddy White, WR Michael Jenkins, and RB Michael Turner pulling the load in the backfield.
Not all the pundits agree the Falcons can repeat the success they had last season, and truthfully, winning 11 games will be tough. However, we view the Falcons as one of the better defenses in this division and with an offense only improving, we can't see any valid reason why they won't win 10 games this season taking the division title.
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 Carolina Panthers Predictions: Projected Record = 10-6
Key Roster Additions: C Justin Geisinger
Key Roster Losses: CB Ken Lucas, OT Frank Omiyale, OG Geoff Hangartner
Key Draft Picks: (DE) Everette Brown , (DB) Sherrod Martin, (DT) Corvey Irvin
The Panthers had a typical off-season for John Fox, which means no earth shattering changes to his team. Same lineup for the most part of both sides of the ball, although the Panthers did address their needs for a new center.
Jake Delhomme and company have a real stinging sensation after last year's surprising playoff loss at home to the Super Bowl Bound Cardinals. They do get a chance to address their revenge in fashion with a trip to the desert November 1.
If your a Carolina fan, then you still will be after this season. The Panthers will be back with a run first offense that features two talented running backs and an electric wide receiver. However, the Panthers need to shore up their run defense that was gashed all last season.
For Jake Delhomme and John Fox, this could be their last shot a Super Bowl run. Look for the Panthers to be in the playoffs again this season, with hopefully a different end result than last year.
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New Orleans Saints Predictions: Projected Record = 9-7
Key Roster Additions: CB Jabari Greer FB Heath Evans, S Darren Sharper, S Pierson Prioleau, DE Paul Spicer
Key Roster Losses: RB Deuce McAllister, LB Dan Morgan, CB Mike McKenzie, FB Mike Karney, DT Hollis Thomas
Key Draft Picks: (DB) Malcolm Jenkins, (S) Chip Vaughn
It baffles us that a team loaded with offensive weapons like the Saints in 2008, only went 8-8. They basically traded wins for losses all season and never developed a pattern of consistency. The passing offense was fine, Drew Brees threw for over 5,000 yards. However, improvements to this running game need to be made if they want to go anywhere in 2009.
The first order of business is to shore up this passing defense that was just plain porous last season ranking 23 against the pass. New defensive coordinator Greg Williams should be a positive step, especially with the additions of first round draft pick Malcolm Jenkins and free agent acquisitions Jabari Greer, Pierson Prioleau and Darren Sharper to shore up this pass defense.
The Saints should improve slightly this season and make a push for a possible playoff berth. That being said, this will be a very competitive division, which could ultimately cost coach Sean Peyton's job if they don't weather the storm.
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 Tampa Bay Bucs Predictions: Projected Record = 7-9
Key Roster Additions: QB Byron Leftwich, RB Derrick Ward, TE Kellen Winslow
Key Roster Losses: LB Derrick Brooks, CB Phillip Buchanon, RB Warrick Dunn, WR Joey Galloway, QB Jeff Garcia, DT Jovan Haye, LB Cato June, WR Ike Hilliard, TE Alex Smith
Key Draft Picks: (QB) Josh Freeman, (DT) Roy Miller
With a new head coach and a rookie QB most likely taking the snaps, the Bucs could find themselves in a quick hole. They open up with home games against the Giants and Cowboys, and trips to Buffalo plus Washington. We could very likely see this team go in an 0-4 or 1-3 hole to start the season.
Most importantly for the Bucs, this will be a chance to rebuild this team from the ground up. Key losses to their roster in the off season will leave them short handed for the 2009 season. TE Kellen Winslow was a great pickup, however what we don't know is who will be throwing to him. Leftwich has had many chances to prove himself and we just don't know how rookie Josh Freeman will fit into this system.
Bottom line, if your a Bucs fan, take solace in the fact that Gruden is no longer on the side-line. In 2-3 years your team could be back in playoff contention.
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☞ NFC West Preview & Predictions
San Francisco 49'ers Predictions: Projected Record = 9-7 (NFC West Champ)
Key Roster Additions: WR Brandon Jones, CB Dre Bly, DE Demetric Evans, FB Moran Norris
Key Roster Losses: LB Tully Banta-Cain, WR Bryant Johnson, CB Donald Strickland, QB J.T. O'Sullivan, DT Ronald Fields
Key Draft Picks: (WR) Michael Crabtree, (RB) Glen Coffee, (QB) Nate Davis
The 49'ers 2008 campaign had only one positive moment, and that was the implementation of Mike Singletary as head coach. We feel Singletary is going to bring back some promise to the Bay Area with a strong defensive background and respect from everyone in this organization.
The Niners add some offensive firepower this season with 3 talented rookies Crabtree, Coffee, and Nate Davis. RB Glen Coffee will be the perfect complement to Gore as this offense will have a dual threat that can run or pass out of the backfield. This should keep the defense guessing enough for a lot of looks for WR Michael Crabtree who was considered the best WR available in this year's draft.
Only question remains is who will be taking the QB reigns this season for the Niners? It's a close competition in camp currently between Alex Smith, Shaun Hill, and Nate Davis. However, no matter who is at the helm, this will be a run first team based on an improving defense. The Niners will look to control the clock and the field of play in every game.
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Seattle Seahawks Predictions: Projected Record = 8-8
Key Roster Additions: WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, DT Colin Cole, CB Ken Lucas, DT Cory Redding
Key Roster Losses: LB Julian Peterson, DT Rocky Bernard, WR Bobby Engram, RB Maurice Morris
Key Draft Picks: (LB) Aaron Curry, (OT) Max Unger
After a disastrous season with much disorder, the Seahawks will look to rebound in 2009. Let's see, Hasselback was injured the entire season, they ranked in the bottom rung for every major statistic, and the coaching order was in disarray with the future of Holmgren and Jim Mora.
However, with all that said, it can't get much worse for the Seahawks who only look to improve. T.J Houshmandzadeh comes to town giving Hasselback one more option to throw to. If the offensive line can protect their QB, the Seahawks have a solid shot at winning this division.
Technically, the Seahawks have a favorable schedule to build some momentum early in the season. Four of their first six games are at home with very winnable games against St. Louis, Arizona, and Chicago If they can steal a game at San Francisco win week 2 then it's very likely the Seahawks can open up 4-2. Only problem for the Seahawks is the 49'ers will be much improved under defensive strategist Mike Singletary, and let's face it, the Seahawks didn't improve that much in the off-season. Look for a mediocre season for the Seahawks.
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Arizona Cardinals Predictions: Projected Record = 7-9
Key Roster Additions: CB Bryant McFadden, TE Anthony Becht, S Keith Lewis
Key Roster Losses: DE Antonio Smith, LB Monty Beisel, CB Rod Hood, RB Edgerrin James
Key Draft Picks: (RB) Chris Beanie Wells, (DE) Cody Brown, (DB) Rashad Johnson
Enjoy the Cardinals almost Super Bowl win last season, because this year presents a much different challenge. The Cardinals had all the cards fall into place last season in a weak conference coupled with an impressive Super Bowl run upsetting opponents all the way through the playoffs. Repeating that type of anomaly is going to be very difficult again this season. Let's face it, Warner is getting older and we can't expect him to have another MVP caliber season.
The intangibles aside, technically the Cardinals early season schedule could spell their downfall in 2009. The Cardinals travel in week 2 down to Jacksonville and then back in week 3 for a home game against the Colts. In week 6, they travel to Seattle, a tough place to play, followed by a road game at NYG. We will give them the home games against San Fran and Houston (who will improve this season), however opening up the season at 2-4 could ruin any momentum from last season. And you already know the history of NFL teams that lose the Super Bowl the previous year.
Beanie Wells will add depth to this chart and many pundits will agree the Cardinals are loaded on offense. However, surviving the first leg of the season will prove to be extremely difficult for the Cardinals who face a very difficult early season schedule.
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St. Louis Rams Predictions: Projected Record = 6-10
Key Roster Additions: SS James Butler, C Jason Brown, FB Mike Karney
Key Roster Losses: WR Torry Holt, OT Orlando Pace, QB Trent Green, S Corey Chavous
Key Draft Picks: (OT) Jason Smith, (LB) James Laurinaitis
The Rams look to rebuild this organization from the ground up under new head coach Steve Spagnuolo. It can't get much worse after a 2-14 season, however it can't get much better considering the losses of OT Orlando Pace and WR Torry Holt. Low and behold, "The Greatest Show on Turf" has now completely left the building.
Marc Bulger is getting older and more injured with every season that passes by. The Rams released Trent Green so the only viable backup will be Kyle Boller and rookie Keith Null from West Texas A&M (A Ryan Leif product). Not to mention Steven Jackson being disgruntled and dealing with injuries of his own. This offense and defense has much rebuilding to accomplish to get back to any reasonable expectations of a winning season.
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☞ NFC East Preview & Predictions
Dallas Cowboys Predictions: Projected Record = 12-4
**Super Bowl Winner (NFC East Champ)
Key Roster Additions: LB Keith Brooking, DE Igor Olshansky
Key Roster Losses: WR Terrell Owens, DE Chris Canty, LB Zach Thomas, S Roy Williams DT Tank Johnson, CB Adam Jones, LB Greg Ellis
Key Draft Picks: (LB) Jason Williams, (T) Robert Brewster, (QB) Stephen McGee
The Cowboys only got better in the off-season and finally got rid of their weakest links, Terrell Owens and Adam Pac-Man Jones. The main weapons for the Cowboys this season will be in the backfield with RB's Marion Barber, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. They will utilize sets with Jones and Barber that will allow the super speedy Jones to break away down-field.
This season may be a stepping out season for Tony Romo now that most of the distractions (T.O and Pac-Man) have left the locker room. Romo will have less pressure on bailing his team out with his arm now that the Cowboys have had some time to work out this vicious offense. And, it's not like Romo doesn't have weapons. Roy Williams and TE Jason Witten can always be counted on to deliver in the end-zone.
Last season was considered a disappointment to Cowboys fans with a 9-7 record missing the playoffs. Many also thought last year was "the year" for the Cowboys, however we feel this season represents a perfect chance to break in the new stadium and bring home the Lombardi trophy for this city. We have to emphasize that the locker room distractions that were Dallas last season will no longer be tolerated by this organization. A new focus and better team chemistry will allow this team to live up to their potential.
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 NY Giants Predictions: Projected Record = 10-6
Key Roster Additions: DT Rocky Bernard, LB Michael Boley, DT Chris Canty
Key Roster Losses: WR Plaxico Burress, RB Derrick Ward, DE Renaldo Wynn, S James Butler, S Sammy Knight, CB Sam Madison, RB Reuben Droughns
Key Draft Picks: (WR) Hakeem Nicks, (LB) Clint Sintim, (RB) Andre Brown
Even with Plax out of the picture, the Giants can still be a dominating force in the NFC. Eli Manning has proven to be a fantasy football stud racking up yards and interceptions. His work ethic is nothing short of the older Manning even though he warrants less attention.
It's not the passing game that wins games for this team, it's the threat of the run. The Giants had the best backfield in the NFL last season with the trio of "Earth, Wind, and Fire" Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward and Ahmad Bradshaw. The entire offense will center around the running game, which allows Manning to act comfortably when he needs to pass.
The Giants made no major moves in the off-season and only have gotten better now that the BIG distraction Plaxico Burress is out of the locker room. The Giants drafted Hakeem Nicks of UNC first round, a big speedy receiver, so they will not be hurting in that area.
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Philadelphia Eagles Predictions: Projected Record = 9-7
Key Roster Additions: QB Michael Vick, OT Jason Peters, OT Stacy Andrew, CB Ellis Hobbs
Key Roster Losses: S Brian Dawkins, CB Lito Seppard, WR Greg Lewis, TE LJ Smith, OT Tra Thomas, RB Correll Buckhalter
Key Draft Picks: (WR) Jeremy Maclin, (RB) LaSean McCoy, and (TE) Cornelius Ingram
Andy Reid finally answered McNabb's cries for offense as the Eagles drafted three rookie studs WR Jeremy Maclin, RB LaSean McCoy, and TE Cornelius Ingram. These players will have the chance to be inserted instantly into the offense. However, the big story of the off-season was the August acquisition of Michael Vick. Reid is putting everything on the line this season, which could be a make or break year. Eagles fans and this franchise are tired of the same old, same old. They want a Super Bowl ring, period. Adding Vick to this roster, however is not an easy answer. It's tough enough to keep one QB happy, now they have two to deal with. Sure, the wild-cat may be inserted into this offense quickly, however we must wait and see if the overall winning mindset will be any different in Philly.
There could be some problems on the defensive front. What a loss in one of the All Time greats Jim Johnson. Now this team must move forward without the staple of this defense. Further, losing Brian Dawkins and Lito Shepherd from this defense will hurt, however the Eagles quickly took CB Hobbs to replace Shepherd. We feel the only weakness for the Eagles this season may be that it will rely too heavily on young faces to deliver something this city hasn't seen in a while. Philadelphia has some of the most fickle fans of any major city in the US. This pressure could be enough to split this team apart as we have seen in many seasons. The combination of Vick's sideshow and losing their emotional leader Brian Dawkins, and their Defensive Coordinator, may be enough to spell trouble this season.
Bottom line, this is the last chance for McNabb/Reid to lead this team back to the Super Bowl. If McNAbb can't deliver, then Vick will certainly try. Hold onto your hats in Philly, this could be a whirlwind season.
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 Washington Redskins Predictions: Projected Record = 7-9
Key Roster Additions: DT Albert Haynesworth, OG Derrick Dockery, OG Jeremy Bridges, DE Renaldo Wynn
Key Roster Losses: OT Jon Jansen, CB Shawn Springs, DE Jason Taylor, LB Marcus Washington
Key Draft Picks: (DE) Brian Orakpo, (DB) Kevin Barnes
The "Pigs" did a lot of work in the off-season rebuilding this defense getting stud DT Albert Haynesworth, DE Renaldo Wynn, and a slew of defensive rookies including DE Brian Orakpo. The only problem is, they forgot about their stagnant offense.
The Skins were 28th in the league in scoring last season averaging just 16 points per game and 19th in total yardage. Much of this can be attribute to their schemes and reliance on the running game. Jason Campbell, who does have potential, nly threw for 13 TD's all season. Talk about a fantasy bust!
We feel the Redskins are headed in the right direction building an absolute scary defense that will be on the level the next few years. However, they need some firepower on offense to compete in a division loaded with high scoring teams. Look for the Skins to have a losing season.
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☞ NFC North Preview & Predictions
 Green Bay Packers Predictions: Projected Record = 11-5 (NFC North Champ)
Key Roster Additions: S Anthony Smith, C Duke Preston
Key Roster Losses: DT Colin Cole
Key Draft Picks: (DT) B.J. Raji, (DE) Clay Matthews, (FB) Quinn Johnson
The Packers started out 4-3, but dropped 7 of their last 9 to finish a dismal and unexpected 6-10 on the season. Now, what you have to understand is that there is nothing wrong with this offense. In fact, the Packers were 5th in the league in scoring led by the steady arm of Aaron Rodgers who threw for a whopping 28 TD's. Ryan Grant was no slouch either ganing 1200 on the season.
Where the Packers struggle is on defense. Not necessarily performance, but keeping their stars on defense healthy. In 2008, CB Al Harris was out 4 games, S Atari Bigby was out 9, DL Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila was out 9 and LB Nick Barnett was out 7. If these players can stay healthy for an entire season, the Packers have a chance to win out this division and contend for the NFC champhionship.
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 Chicago Bears Predictions: Projected Record = 9-7
Key Roster Additions: QB Jay Cutler, OT Frank Omiyale, OT Orlando Pace, OT Kevin Shaffer
Key Roster Losses: QB Kyle Orton, QB Rex grossman, OT John Tait, OT John St. Clair
Key Draft Picks: (DE) Jarron Gilbert , (WR) Juaquin Iglesias , (CB) D.J. Moore
Chicago went 9-7 last season mainly due to defensive injuries and lack of offesnive firepower. Now that Jay Cutler has arrived, this Bears team will take a step up on offense which should be enough to win them the division. With Forte carrying the load, this offense will have potential to be a standout in the NFL.
The main concern for the Bears right now should be on fixing up this defense that ranked 30th in the NFL against the pass last season. If the Bears can keep DB's Nathan Vasher and Mike Brown healthy for an entire season, it would sure help. They did work on drafting some solid future defensive beasts including DE Jarron Gilbert out of San Jose who was one of college football's most fiercest pass rushers.
The fact is the Bears are moving in a positive direction unlike the start of last season. This will be a good year for Chicago and a playoff berth is a high probability for this franchise in 2009.
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Minnesota Vikings Predictions: Projected Record = 8-8
Key Roster Additions: QB Brett Favre, QB Sage Rosenfels
Key Roster Losses: C Matt Birk, QB Gus Frerotte, S Darren Sharper
Key Draft Picks: (WR) Percy Harvin, (OL) Phil Loadholt
Well what do you know? Brett Favre suddenly appears in training camp after vahemently denying joining the Packers most hated rival. Will he be the answer in Minnesota? Brett Favre truly showed his age at the end of last season with the Jets, and if history is any indication, will repeat itself again this season. The Vikings are hoping that this year will be the year, however we must indicate the odds are not in their favor of winning this division, much less an NFC championship. The Packers are healthy and have one of the most accurate QB's in the NFL that is super bowl material. The Bears now have Jay Cutler, a gunslinger in his prime that will lead his team to great things this year. The Vikings will come up short just like the Jets did last season with Favre at the helm.
We would be remiss not to mention Adrian Peterson as he is the best RB in the NFL right now. However, if the Vikings continue to pour the load on the young man, injuries could be inevitable. The Vikings need a QB of the future (not a QB of the now) and an additional running threat to take the load of Peterson. Chester Taylor has proved to be injury prone to adequately support Peterson in the backup role.
The Vikings defense is still a stop unit led by Jarred Allen, however the loss of lead tackler Darren Sharper will hurt. That is going to always give the Vikings at least 8-10 wins every season. Truly one of the defensive leaders in this division and the NFL. We expect the Vikings to have a mediocre seaso at best. Favre is not the answer.
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Detroit Lions Predictions: Projected Record = 7-9
Key Roster Additions: LB Julian Peterson, LB Larry Foote, CB Phillip Buchanon, CB Anthony Henry, DT Grady Jackson, OT Jon Jansen, WR Bryant Johnson, RB Maurice Morris, WR Ronald Curry, CB Eric King
Key Roster Losses: CB Leigh Bodden, DT Shaun Cody, DT Cory Redding, DE Corey Smith, QB Jon Kitna, QB Dan Orlovsky, WR Shaun cDonald, FB Moran Norris, G Edwin Mulitalo, S Dwight Smith, WR Travis Taylor
Key Draft Picks: (QB) Matthew Stafford , (TE) Brandon Pettigrew, (WR) Derrick Williams
Not many folks will give the Lions any chance this season after a dismal 0-16 performance last year and your probably chuckling right now at our prediction for a 7-9 finish. However, what you must understand is this is the NFL and things can change drastically from season to season.
It's clear the future of this offense hinges on the abilities of rookie QB Matthew Stafford to fit into this offense. He will have deep threats to throw at including wideouts Calvin Johnson and Bryant Johnson, and TE Brandon Pettigrew. Maurice Morris was also added to the backfield to help Kevin Smith with the load and add depth. However, with all of this said, the Lions will need to improve their O-line before any success will translate.
Now, the biggest improvement for this team should be on the defensive front. Jim Schwartz, former defensive coordinator for the Titans since 2001 takes over with an impressive resume to say the least. With a winning mindset, Schwartz should be able to whip this defense into shape in the off-season. Especially with new talent that should pay off now including LB's Larry Foote and Julian Peterson, DT grady Johnson, and CB Phillip Buchanon.
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 Now lets take an in depth look at
the AFC and how each team stacks up
against their division.
☞ AFC North Preview & Predictions
 Pittsburgh Steelers Predictions: Projected Record = 11-5 (AFC North Champ)
Key Roster Additions: CB Keiwan Ratliffe
Key Roster Losses: LB Larry Foote, QB Byron Leftwich, CB Bryant McFadden, OG Kendall Simmons, WR Nate Washington
Key Draft Picks: (DT) Ziggy Hood, (OL) Kraig Urbik, (WR) Mike Wallace
The Steelers put up one for the ages last season posting a dominate 12-4 record along with a Super Bowl crown. They come back in 2009 with no major changes to the core and will once again win this division.
What was so amazing about last year's run was the fact that the Steelers allowed the most sacks of any NFL team with the o-line struggling all season to protect Big Ben. With a major emphasis by Tomlin in the off-season to fix this offensive line, this team could be very dangerous once again come playoff time. We would not be surprised to see this team back in contention for the AFC championship or a consecutive Super Bowl.
The defense will once again be the mark of a champion as the Steelers were the #1 defense last year and with no major losses or additions, we can't see why they won't be at the top ranks again this season. Ball hawking defenders like James Harrison and Troy Palamalu are the back-bone of this team and if they remain healthy can lead this team to greatness once again in 2009.
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 Cincinatti Bengals Predictions: Projected Record = 10-6
Key Roster Additions: WR Laveranues Coles, DT Tank Johnson, S Roy Williams
Key Roster Losses: WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, OT Stacy Andrews, OT Levi Jones, S Mike Doss
Key Draft Picks: (OL) Andre Smith , (LB) Rey Maualuga , (DE) Michael Johnson, (TE) Chase Coffman
First off, we want to clear the air by saying that the Bengals have been one of the worst NFL teams over the last 2 years. Last season, the Bengals 4-11 record was fueled by Carson Palmer's injuries, Chad Ochocinco's continued anti-trust, and Chris Henry's off the field legal troubles. What a whirlwind of controversy this team created for itself in 2008.
However, with all of the above stated, the Bengals have a brand new season ahead of them. Sure, T.J is gone and he was the best 'on the field' wide receiver last season. However, Laverneous Coles is no joke and will look to be a key fixture in this offense. IF, Carson Palmer stays healthy; Chad Ochocinco quits whining; and Chris Henry can stay out of trouble; this could be one of THE most electric offenses in the NFL.
We have a feeling that all 3 of the above mentioned variables will not shake out, however if Palmer can stay healthy this team has a shot at challenging Pittsburgh for this division. The Bengals needed to addess the defense also that was non-existent at times last season. They have a future in (LB) Rey Maualuga and (DE) Michael Johnson who will start contributing right away.
Many of you are chuckling about this prediction, however if the Bengals can keep their composure for one season, you will see big changes for the positive.
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 Cleveland Browns Predictions: Projected Record = 10-6
Key Roster Additions: LB Eric Barton, TE Robert Royal, DE Kenyon Coleman, S Abram Elam, OL John St. Clair, LB David Bowens, CB Rod Hood, CB Corey Ivy, WR David Patten, CB Hank Poteat
Key Roster Losses: TE Kellen Winslow, WR Joe Jurevicius, OT Kevin Shaffer, CB Terry Cousin, QB Bruce Gradkowski, S Sean Jones, OL Seth McKinney
Key Draft Picks: (C) Alex Mack, (WR) Brian Robiskie, (WR) Mohamed Massaquoi
2008 was tumultuous for the Cleveland Browns. After everyone predicted them to be a shoe in for the playoffs, the Browns turned in a 4-12 season en route to the firing of head coach Romeo Crennell. And, that's where this season begins. Eric Mangini now takes over bringing in a ton of talent from the Jets.
Mangini's focus primarily will be whipping this defense into shape and establish offensive efficiency. Brady Quinn is the future of the Browns and we feel will win the starting job this season. Derek Anderson is too injury prone and hasn't shown consistency as an NFL starter. The Browns added a TON of talent defensively including several former Jets product under Mangini.
We feel this could be the Browns season to stand out in the NFL and make a playoff push. Just like the Bengals, this team has a ton of talent if applied correctly and will surprise you in the upcoming campaign.
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 Baltimore Ravens Predictions: Projected Record = 7-9
Key Roster Additions: C Matt Birk, CB Domonique Foxworth, TE L.J. Smith, CB Chris Carr
Key Roster Losses: LB Bart Scott, OT Willie Anderson, CB Chris McAlister, FB Lorenzo Neal, CB Corey Ivy
Key Draft Picks: (OT) Michael Oher, (DE) Paul Kruger
It probably seems unrealistic for you to believe that the Ravens will have a down year in 2009. But, let us be frank with you and start by saying the loss of defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and LB Bart Scott is going to be a huge hit to this defense.
Sure, the Ravens will still have a solid defense, but it will not be as dominant as in 2008, which was the major reason why the Ravens won so many games. The defense was ranked second in passing yards and total yards given up, and ranked third in rushing yards given up and points allowed. Now, what you must understand is that the playbook and Rex Ryan's legacy still remains intact, but his non-presence on the sideline will be certainly missed as a huge motivational factor. Coupled with the loss of Ray Lewis prodigy Bart Scott, this defense takes a huge blow to the heart of this defense.
The offense should continue to improve as Joe Flacco has much potential. As long as young Flacco is not asked to carry this team, the offense will do fine. They are built to run the ball utilizing Le'Ron McClain, Willis McGahee and Ray Rice who can punish any defense. Flacco only needs to make a few big plays per game to win. Only thing is, if the Ravens get down by too many points 10-14, they will lose many games sheerly based on lack of offensive explosiveness.
The AFC North will be much tougher this season on the Ravens as we have outlined above the major improvements both the Browns and Bengals will see. Further, the Ravens have a tough non-division schedule with away games at San Diego, New England, Minnesota, and Green Bay. You may easily see the Ravens going 2-2 or even 1-3 in these games, which could hurt their chances at having a winning season.
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☞ AFC East Preview & Predictions
 New England Patriots Predictions: Projected Record = 13-3 (AFC East Champ)
Key Roster Additions: RB Fred Taylor, CB Shawn Springs, CB Leigh Bodden, LB Tully Banta-Cain, WR Greg Lewis, TE Alex Smith
Key Roster Losses: QB Matt Cassel, LB Mike Vrabel, S Rodney Harrison, CB Ellis Hobbs, LB Larry Izzo, RB LaMont Jordan
Key Draft Picks: (DB) Patrick Chung , (DT) Ron Brace, (WR) Brandon Tate
In the off-season, mad scientist Bill Belichick showed why any player in this league is expendable. After losing 4 defensive staples LB Mike Vrabel, S Rodney Harrison, CB Ellis Hobbs, LB Larry Izzo; Belichick went and added CB Shawn Springs, CB Leigh Bodden, LB Tully Banta-Cain, not mention picking up 3 defensive studs the first 3 rounds of the draft.
With Tom Brady back at the helm we see no reason why the Patriots can't make another Super Bowl run this season and easily take back control of this division. Coach Belichick also spent time souping up this offense acquiring offensive weapons RB Fred Taylor, WR Greg Lewis, and TE Alex Smith. Not to mention a young stud out of UNC WR Brandon Tate who will look to make an immediate contribution to this WR core alongside Randy Moss.
Bottom line, you don't want to sleep on the Patriots this year who were 11-5 in an "off year" last season. Assuming Brady stays healthy and hasn't lost a step, the Patriots will win out the AFC East.
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 New York Jets Predictions: Projected Record = 10-6
Key Roster Additions: LB Bart Scott, CB Lito Sheppard, CB Donald Strickland, SS Jim Leonhard, LB Larry Izzo
Key Roster Losses: LB Eric Barton, WR Laveranues Coles, QB Brett Favre, CB Hank Poteat
Key Draft Picks: (QB) Mark Sanchez , (RB) Shonn Greene
We absolutely love the fact Rex Ryan is in town for the NY jets this season. The proof is in the pudding as 'Rexy' brought in LB Bart Scott from Baltimore along with CB Lito Sheppard, CB Donald Strickland, SS Jim Leonhard, and LB Larry Izzo. It's extremely clear the direction this team is moving in this season and we like the taste of defense in this division.
Offensively, this team is moving in the right direction picking up a hopeful long term QB in Mark Sanchez in the first round. We just hope the OL can keep him off his back and on the field, because Sanchez has a lot of potential if he can remain healthy. No doubt about it, evil Bill Belichick will send everything he has on September 20 to shatter this young man's bum leg and possibly ruin his career. That's just the way the NFL works, coaches will exploit weaknesses.
With the addition of rookie RB Shonn Green, this offense has a lot of potential to be not only explosive, but controlling. With Rex Ryan calling the defense on the sideline you can bet every game will turn into a battle of field position and possessions. The Jets will take a step forward this season and challenge New England for the division.
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 Miami Dolphins Predictions: Projected Record = 9-7
Key Roster Additions: LB Jason Taylor, S Gibril Wilson, C Jake Grove
Key Roster Losses: S Renaldo Hill, CB Andre Goodman
Key Draft Picks: (DB) Vontae Davis , (QB) Pat White, (DB) Sean Smith
The Dolphins only got better in the off-season by acquiring Pat White just to soup up this wild-cat offense. We feel the Dolphins can contend with the best of them this season and make a serious run at the playoffs.
The only problem for the Dolphins will be that the Patriots will be much better and the Jets are taking a step up as well. Therefore, we can't see the Dolphins winning 11 games this season, especially since teams within this division and the rest of the NFL will be game-planning for the wildcat spread attack.
Defensively, Parcells continues to improve his club drafting DB's Vontae Davis and Sean Smith to patch up the pass defense. Not to mention LB Jason Taylor and S Gibril Wilson that will provide an immediate boost to the secondary.
The Dolphins continue to move in the right direction building a team for the future while not going into complete rebuilding mode at the same time. Bill Parcells will keep up the good work in the front office and continue to have another successful season in 2009.
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.png) Buffalo Bills Predictions: Projected Record = 6-10
Key Roster Additions: WR Terrell Owens, OG Geoff Hangrtner, C Seth McKinney, RB Dominic Rhodes
Key Roster Losses: OT Jason Peters, OG Derick Dockery, DE Anthony Hargrove
Key Draft Picks: (DE) Aaron Maybin, (C) Eric Wood
Team obliterator arrives at Buffalo to stir up yet another controversy in another locker room. If the Bills think that giving Terrell Owens to Trent Green may revive this offense, think again. Trent Green is very inconsistent as we have seen the last few seasons and once he has a few bad games, Owens will be the first to step up and complain. Locker room dissension and poor team chemistry will soon follow.
It also hurts the Bills having lost two offensive linemen in the off-season, which could also add to some protection questions early on. We feel the Bills will however improve on defense where they spent their #1 draft pick on Penn State product Aaron Maybin at DE. This stop unit was mediocre in 2008 and should get better this season.
If your a Bills fan, don't think of this season as the end. It's more of a wake up call for this team, fans and organization. The team may be moving to Toronto soon enough if things keep going downhill. We feel the Bills just don't have a shot in this division if they can't get a consistent QB that can win throughout an entire season.
Technically, the Bills early schedule this season will be very tough with away games at New England, KC, Carolina, Tennessee, and Jacksonville. These are some of the toughest road trips in the league and a 1-4 record for these games could spell a mediocre or even losing season. We give them a one game improvement from last season.
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☞ AFC South Preview & Predictions
 Indianapolis Colts Predictions: Projected Record = 12-4 (AFC South Champ)
Key Roster Additions: DT Ed Johnson
Key Roster Losses: WR Marvin Harrison, RB Dominic Rhodes, DT Darrell Reid
Key Draft Picks: (RB) Donald Brown, (DT) Fili Moala
The Colts lost a true leader in Tony Dungy who will surely be missed by this entire organization. However, the show must go on and new head coach Jim Caldwell must get these guys in gear for the regular season. And it's not as if Caldwell hasn't been here all along. This will be his 8th season with the Colts as he is one of the masterminds behind this prolific offensive attack.
Indy picked up RB stud Ronald Brown out of the draft who reminds us much of Joseph Addai as he is a true power runner with speed. Brown will be inserted into this offense immediately and will be a huge contribution to this offense ran by none other than perennial pro-bowler Peyton Manning.
Speaking of offense, Marvin Harrison is no longer a Colt, which opens the door for the rest of the Colts WR options that have been waiting to fill the slot. WR rookie wide-out Austin Collie will be in tough competition this training camp for a starting position on this roster. This WR depth chart is deeper than you may think with Reggie Wayne and Tony Gonzalez playing the veteran roles.
All in all, this Colts team did not change any major faces (other than head coach) in the off-season. Last year at 12-4, the Colts were in a "down year" if you ask anyone on this team. We feel the Colts stay the pace and are on pace for another 12 win season along with the divisional crown.
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 Houston Texans Predictions: Projected Record = 10-6
Key Roster Additions: DE Antonio Smith, DT Shaun Cody, OG Adrian Jones, LB Cato June, QB Dan Orlovsky
Key Roster Losses: S Will Demps, CB DeMarcus Faggins, RB Ahman Green, QB Sage Rosenfels
Key Draft Picks: (LB) Brian Cushing, (DE) Connor Barwin
The Texans have a shot at making the playoffs this season if they can keep QB Matt Schaub healthy over the course of the season. Putting that element aside, this franchise right now is stronger than they have ever been. After an 8-4 finish to last season sparked by RB Steve Slaton and a resilient defense, this Texans team is VERY excited to prove themselves this season.
Looking over this roster you will notice hard working athletes that don't necessarily scream talent. However, the Texans are working on their defense in the off-season, a unit that ranked 27 in points allowed last year. The first order of business was signing free agents DE Antonio Smith, DT Shaun Cody, and LB Cato June. Next, they spent their first two draft picks on LB Brian Cushing and DE Connor Barwin. It's clear the direction this team is heading in that their defense was their weakest link in previous seasons.
Can the Texans win out the division? Probably not unless Manning gets injured and the Colts have a mediocre or losing season. However, we feel the Texans can win 10 games as they open up with a beneficial schedule of 3 home games in their first 4. Look for the Texans to be the newest face in the playoffs come January.
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 Tennessee Titans Predictions: Projected Record = 9-7
Key Roster Additions: DT Jovan Haye, WR Nate Washington, CB DeMarcus Faggins
Key Roster Losses: DT Albert Haynesworth, WR Brandon Jones, CB Eric King
Key Draft Picks: (WR) Kenny Britt, (DE) Sen'Derrick Marks, (TE) Jared Cook
Yes, it's going to hurt Tennessee losing Albert Haynesworth as you simply can't replace him on defense. However, this defense is dominant in every facet and we see them moving on in 2009. The secondary is something that needs to be mentioned as Cortland Finnegan, Chris Hope, and Michael Griffin can take almost any wide receiver in the NFL one on one these days. The Titans ability to defend the pass in single coverage pave the way for a solid QB rush. Any offense must game-plan a much different strategy for dealing with this tenacious defense.
What concerns us for the Titans this year will be the start of the season. Their first 3 of 4 games are on the road at Pittsburgh, New York Jets, then to Jacksonville. A 1-3 or 2-2 start could dramatically reduce their chances of winning this division considering they got off to a 10-0 start last season.
Can Kerry Collins do it again? It's one thing to do it when no one expects you to, but now that the defenses in this division will be game-planning for Collins, the result may not be so pretty. Ultimately, this leaves the door open for Vince Young and he should get a chance to redeem himself at some point this season.
It's going to be tough for the Titans to have the same success as last season, however we feel they will do enough to get to the playoffs.
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 Jacksonville Jaguars Predictions: Projected Record = 5-11
Key Roster Additions: WR Torry Holt, OT Tra Thomas, S Marlon McCree
Key Roster Losses: LB Mike Peterson, RB Fred Taylor, DE Paul Spicer, DT Tony McDaniel, S Gerald Sensabaugh, CB Drayton Florence, WR Matt Jones, WR Jerry Porter
Key Draft Picks: (T) Eugene Monroe, (T) Eben Britton, (DT) Terrance Knighton
After a disappointing 2008 campaign, the Jaguars are rebuilding from the ground up. Did you notice the plethora of players mentioned above that are not part of this team anymore? It's going to take a lot of work plus luck for the Jaguars to compete in this division now that the two headed monster of Taylor and Jones-Drew is now just Jones-Drew.
David Gerrard is not the QB of the future for this team coming off a dreadful 13 interception to 15 TD performance in 2008. Further, this team ranked 24th in the NFL in points even with the 1-2 punch of Jones-Drew and Taylor last year. As we mention above, without Fred Taylor, opposing defenses are going to cheat and bring the blitz against the aging and slow David Gerrard. The Jags will need to find an answer on the depth chart qui |
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