I’m skipping ahead of the rest of the 2021 NFL season previews and going straight to the power rankings for Week 1. With a few days left until the 2021 NFL season begins, let’s go through all 32 NFL teams and see how they look entering the season.
#32: Houston Texans
2020 Finish: 3rd AFC South | 4-12 (14th AFC)
GM: Nick Caserio | HC: David Culley
The Texans will remain as the worst team in the league until there is a resolution regarding the Deshaun Watson situation. He is being kept by the organization in the wake of all the allegations of sexual assault made in the 22 lawsuits filed against him are still under investigation, but the fact that they are keeping him is more to do with avoiding fines. It’s expected that he be moved in a trade, and it’s possible that he could be placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt list. This roster is especially brutal for Nick Caserio and David Culley.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Tyrod Taylor
RB: Mark Ingram
WR: Brandin Cooks, Chris Conley, Anthony Miller
TE: Pharaoh Brown
OL: Laremy Tunsil (LT), Max Scharping (LG), Justin Britt (C), Justin McCray (RG), Tytus Howard (RT)
DE: Whitney Mercilus (LDE), Jordan Jenkins (RDE)
DT: Vincent Taylor (LDT), Maliek Collins (RDT)
LB: Zach Cunningham (WLB), Christian Kirksey (MLB), Kevin Pierre-Louis (SLB)
CB: Desmond King II (LCB), Terrance Mitchell (RCB)
S: Eric Murray (SS), Justin Reid (FS)
ST: Ka’imi Fairbairn (K), Cameron Johnston (P), Jon Weeks (LS)
RS: Andre Roberts
#31: Detroit Lions
2020 Finish: 4th NFC North | 5-11 (14th NFC)
GM: Brad Holmes | HC: Dan Campbell
The Lions are looking towards their future seasons with some of their recent moves and are trying to save face with Jared Goff more of as a bridge QB than a long-term QB. Meanwhile, TJ Hockenson has the tools to be a star, and he will operate in a Lions offense that is not really loaded with competition for targets. That’s their only bright spot, unless you possibly account for D’Andre Swift. Dan Campbell, Anthony Lynn, and Aaron Glenn have their work cut out with limited star power on the team.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Jared Goff
RB: D’Andre Swift
WR: Tyrell Williams, Kalif Raymond, Amon-Ra St. Brown
TE: TJ Hockenson
OL: Taylor Decker (LT), Jonah Jenkins (LG), Frank Ragnow (C), Halapoulivaati Vaitai (RG), Penei Sewell (RT)
DL: Michael Brockers (LDE), Alim McNeill (NT), Nick Williams (RDE)
EDGE: Romeo Okwara (WLB), Trey Flowers (SLB)
ILB: Alex Anzalone (LILB), Jamie Collins Sr. (RILB)
CB: Amani Oruwariye (LCB), Jeff Okudah (RCB)
S: Will Harris (SS), Tracy Walker III (FS)
ST: Austin Seibert (K), Jack Fox (P), Scott Daly (LS)
RS: Kalif Raymond
#30: Jacksonville Jaguars
2020 Finish: 4th AFC South | 1-15 (16th AFC)
GM: Trent Baalke | HC: Urban Meyer
The Jaguars are enthusiastic with Trevor Lawrence, but there are doubts that are curving into that with Urban Meyer’s first ever job as an NFL head coach. Lawrence is getting only limited help on offense and there is not much to be comfortable with this defense. There was also a report that the Jags would listen to trade offers for CJ Henderson. Having little patience with a premium draft pick is unusual, but Henderson is not bought into Meyer’s doings and is outside their circle of trust.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Trevor Lawrence
RB: James Robinson
WR: Marvin Jones Jr., DJ Chark Jr., Laviska Shenault Jr.
TE: Chris Manhertz
OL: Cam Robinson (LT), Andrew Norwell (LG), Brandon Linder (C), AJ Cann (RG), Jawaan Taylor (RT)
DL: Malcom Brown (LDE), DaVon Hamilton (NT), Roy Robertson-Harris (RDE)
EDGE: Josh Allen (WLB), K’Lavon Chaisson (SLB)
ILB: Damien Wilson (LILB), Myles Jack (RILB)
CB: CJ Henderson (LCB), Shaquill Griffin (RCB)
S: Andrew Wingard (SS), Rayshawn Jenkins (FS)
ST: Josh Lambo (K), Logan Cooke (P), Ross Matiscik (LS)
RS: Jamal Agnew
#29: New York Jets
2020 Finish: 4th AFC East | 2-14 (15th AFC)
GM: Joe Douglas | HC: Robert Saleh
While many Jets fans were quick to hit the panic button after Zach Wilson flopped in front of the annual Green & White open practice, his struggled carried on over to the preseason, but it’s inevitable. The Jets decided to turn the franchise to the 22-year-old. Rookie mistakes are part of the pain, but if he is the real deal, he’ll process his mistakes and learn from them. He is a highly touted prospect, but another thing to remember is that he is also a developmental project. Jets fans will have to take the good with the bad this season.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Zach Wilson
RB: Tevin Coleman
WR: Corey Davis, Jamison Crowder*/Elijah Moore, Keelan Cole
TE: Tyler Kroft
OL: Mekhi Becton (LT), Alijah Vera-Tucker (LG), Connor McGovern (C), Greg Van Roten (RG), George Fant (RT)
DE: John Franklin-Myers (LDE), Bryce Huff (RDE)
DT: Sheldon Rankins (LDT), Quinnen Williams (RDT)
LB: Hamsah Nasirildeen (WLB), CJ Mosley (MLB), Jamien Sherwood (SLB)
CB: Brandin Echols (LCB), Bryce Hall (RCB)
S: Marcus Maye (SS), LaMarcus Joyner (FS)
ST: Matt Ammendola (K), Braden Mann (P), Thomas Hennessy (LS)
RS: Michael Carter III (KR), Braxton Berrios (PR)
*Crowder was placed on the COVID list but could possibly be cleared in time to play on Sunday
#28: Cincinnati Bengals
2020 Finish: 4th AFC North | 4-11-1 (13th AFC)
GM: Duke Tobin | HC: Zac Taylor
The hope for the Bengals is that they are doing right by Joe Burrow. As it stands, the reports are painting a bleak picture of a training camp filled with miscues, interceptions, and drops as the young QB works his way back from knee surgery. While they are a promising team in terms of how good outsiders think they can be in Year 2 of Burrow, the question is if he is in the right place physically to move forward as the Week 1 starter. If he isn’t 100% ready, it could make sense that the Bengals reevaluate their battle plan. You hope these are conversations happening inside the team HQ, because there is a lot at stake for this team.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Joe Burrow
RB: Joe Mixon
WR: Tyler Boyd, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins
TE: CJ Uzomah
OL: Jonah Williams (LT), Quinton Spain (LG), Trey Hopkins (C), Xavier Su’a-Filo (RG), Riley Reiff (RT)
DE: Sam Hubbard (LDE), Trey Hendrickson (RDE)
DT: DJ Reader (LDT), Larry Ogunjobi (RDT)
LB: Logan Wilson (LILB), Germaine Pratt (RILB)
CB: Eli Apple (LCB), Chidobe Awuzie (RCB), Mike Hilton (NB)
S: Vonn Bell (SS), Jessie Bates III (FS)
ST: Evan McPherson (K), Kevin Huber (P), Clark Harris (LS)
RS: Brandon Wilson (KR), Darius Phillips (PR)
Notes
Trae Waynes will miss the season opener because of a hamstring injury.
#27: Carolina Panthers
2020 Finish: 3rd NFC South | 5-11 (13th NFC)
GM: Scott Fitterer | HC: Matt Rhule
Sam Darnold is entering the 2021 season as a hard player to predict given the bad situation he was put in while under Adam Gase in New York. He desperately needed a fresh start and e got it with him, with a lot more talent around him with the Panthers. Christian McCaffrey, DJ Moore, and a familiar face in Robby Anderson are all upgrades over Darnold’s 2020 supporting cast. Also keep an eye on Dan Arnold, who has formed a good chemistry with Darnold. This team could surprise people.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Sam Darnold
RB: Christian McCaffrey
WR: DJ Moore, Robby Anderson, Terrace Marshall Jr.
TE: Dan Arnold
OL: Cam Erving (LT), Pat Elflein (LG), Matt Paradis (C), Michael Jordan (RG), Taylor Moton (RT)
DE: Brian Burns (LDE), Morgan Fox (RDE)
DT: Derrick Brown (LDT), DaQuan Jones (RDT)
LB: Shaq Thompson (WLB), Jermaine Carter Jr. (MLB), Haason Reddick (SLB)
CB: Donte Jackson (LCB), Jaycee Horn (RCB)
S: Jeremy Chinn (SS), Juston Burris (FS)
ST: Ryan Santoso (K), Joseph Charlton (P), JJ Jansen (LS)
RS: Shi Smith (KR), DJ Moore (PR)
#26: Atlanta Falcons
2020 Finish: 4th NFC South | 4-12 (16th NFC)
GM: Terry Fontenot | HC: Arthur Smith
Arthur Smith takes over a rebuilding Falcons team after running an extremely proficient Titans offense built off the dynamic talents of running back Derrick Henry. How will his approach change now that he doesn’t have a superstar of Henry’s caliber behind his QB? Mike Davis filled in nicely in the absence of Christian McCaffrey last season in Carolina, but the veteran RB also faded down the stretch. The depth chart behind him has question marks. They will have yet another offense for Matt Ryan, and even though he has a pair of elite reasons for optimism in Calvin Ridley and Kyle Pitts, that defense will be their kryptonite.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Matt Ryan
RB: Mike Davis
WR: Calvin Ridley, Russell Gage
TE: Kyle Pitts, Hayden Hurst
OL: Jake Matthews (LT), Colby Gossett (LG), Matt Hennessy (C), Chris Lindstrom (RG), Kaleb McGary (RT)
DL: Jonathan Bullard (LDE), Tyeler Davison (NT), Grady Jarrett (RDT)
EDGE: Steven Means (WLB), Dante Fowler Jr. (SLB)
ILB: Deion Jones (LILB), Foyesade Oluokun (RILB)
CB: AJ Terrell (LCB), Fabian Moreau (RCB)
S: Duron Harmon (SS), Erik Harris (FS)
ST: Younghoe Koo (K), Cameron Nizialek (P), Josh Harris (LS)
RS: Cordarrelle Patterson (KR), Avery Williams (PR)
#25: Philadelphia Eagles
2020 Finish: 4th NFC East | 4-11-1 (15th NFC)
GM: Howie Roseman | HC: Nick Sirianni
Lots of changes were made this offseason for the Eagles, and there even were headlines of the team moving on from Zach Ertz, but if you fast forward to now, he has been one of the favorite targets of sophomore QB Jalen Hurts, according to a camp dispatch. It makes people wonder if his 2020 season was more of a down season, less of a decline, and more of as a product of injuries limiting his play. It’s a flip of the page from the short-lived Super Bowl window with Doug Pederson and Carson Wentz to a quick reboot with Nick Sirainni and Jalen Hurts. This offense is a work in progress as the key personnel gets settled in a new scheme, with the defense closer to rebuild than top form.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Jalen Hurts
RB: Miles Sanders
WR: DeVonta Smith, Jalen Reagor, Greg Ward Jr.
TE: Dallas Goedert
OL: Jordan Mailata (LT), Isaac Seumalo (LG), Jason Kelce (C), Brandon Brooks (RG), Lane Johnson (RT)
DE: Brandon Graham (LDE), Derek Barnett (RDE)
DT: Javon Hargrave (LDT), Fletcher Cox (RDT)
LB: Alex Singleton (WLB), Eric Wilson (MLB), Genard Avery (SLB)
CB: Darius Slay Jr. (LCB), Steven Nelson (RCB)
S: K’Von Wallace (SS), Anthony Harris (FS)
ST: Jake Elliott (K), Arryn Siposs (P), Rick Lovato (FS)
RS: Quez Watkins (KR), Jalen Reagor (PR)
#24: New York Giants
2020 Finish: 2nd NFC East | 6-10 (11th NFC)
GM: Dave Gettleman | HC: Joe Judge
The Giants are a hard team to predict heading into 2021. There’s a wide range of outcomes for this team, but with the return of Saquon Barkley, there is more optimism with him available to open up a new-look passing game aided by the addition of Kenny Golladay. Although they made headlines for the team brawl that saw Daniel Jones at the bottom of the dog pile. HC Joe Judge was furious and ripped his players while handing out extra conditioning as punishment. This is his thing, and you just wonder if he would still work in 2021, even if the Giants struggle to find themselves in the playoff race. Their defense may be the key to a pleasant surprise vs. more disappointment.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Daniel Jones
RB: Saquon Barkley
WR: Kenny Golladay, Sterling Shepard, Darius Slayton
TE: Evan Engram
OL: Andrew Thomas (LT), Shane Lemieux (LG), Nick Gates (C), Will Hernandez (RG), Matt Peart (RT)
DL: Dexter Lawrence (LDE), Austin Johnson (NT), Leonard Williams (RDE)
EDGE: Lorenzo Carter (WLB), Oshane Ximines (SLB)
ILB: Tae Crowder (LILB), Blake Martinez (RILB)
CB: James Bradberry (LCB), Adoree’ Jackson (RCB)
S: Jabrill Peppers (SS), Logan Ryan (FS)
ST: Graham Gano (K), Riley Dixon (P), Casey Kreiter (LS)
RS: Jabrill Peppers
#23: Las Vegas Raiders
2020 Finish: 2nd AFC West | 8-8 (9th AFC)
GM: Mike Mayock | HC: Jon Gruden
The Raiders regressed this offseason. And hard. Derek Carr may have had a strong season last year, Josh Jacobs may be healthy, and Darren Waller may be a superstar, who from the receiving core is going to break out? Henry Ruggs III has the highest ceiling, but Jon Gruden is out here comparing Bryan Edwards to Terrell Owens and Carr is likening him to Davante Adams. Chill out, Chucky! Edwards is nowhere close to either! It also doesn’t help that the Raiders went from a mess to a bigger mess defensively. While there is promise on paper, it’s a mismatch because the offense has multiple identities. This looks like a team that is more fold than flush.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Derek Carr
RB: Josh Jacobs
WR: Henry Ruggs III, Bryan Edwards, Hunter Renfrow
TE: Darren Waller
OL: Kolton Miller (LT), Richie Inognito (LG), Andre James (C), Denzelle Good (RG), Alex Leatherwood (RT)
DE: Maxx Crosby (LDE), Yannick Ngakoue (RDE)
DT: Johnathan Hankins (LDT), Quinton Jefferson (RDT)
LB: Cory Littleton (WLB), Denzel Perryman (MLB), KJ Wright (SLB)
CB: Trayvon Mullen Jr. (LCB), Casey Hayward Jr. (RCB)
S: Johnathan Abram (SS), Tre’von Moehrig (FS)
ST: Daniel Carlson (K), AJ Cole III (P), Trent Sieg (LS)
RS: Kenyan Drake (KR), Hunter Renfrow (PR)
#22: Denver Broncos
2020 Finish: 4th AFC West | 5-11 (12th AFC)
GM: George Paton | HC: Vic Fangio
All eyes are on Teddy Bridgewater. Vic Fangio is looking for a QB who can be aggressive and can lead an offense without lots of turnovers. That was an issue that Drew Lock had last season, so it can make sense on why he was demoted to the backup QB this season. However, the reality is that it feels as if both Bridgewater and Lock will start games this season. The Broncos want to tap to a run game defense formula as well, with Javonte Williams set to have a big role to help complement the Broncos’ defense. Despite their receiving corps, it feels as if they don’t have enough.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Teddy Bridgewater
RB: Melvin Gordon III
WR: Courtland Sutton, Jerry Jeudy, KJ Hamler
TE: Noah Fant
OL: Garett Bolles (LT), Dalton Risner (LG), Lloyd Cushenberry III (C), Graham Glasgow (RG), Bobby Massie (RT)
DL: Dre'Mont Jones (LDE), Mike Purcell (NT), Shelby Harris (RDT)
EDGE: Bradley Chubb (WLB), Von Miller (SLB)
ILB: AJ Johnson (LILB), Josey Jewell (RILB)
CB: Kyle Fuller (LCB), Ronald Darby (RCB)
S: Kareem Jackson (SS), Justin Simmons (FS)
ST: Brandon McManus (K), Sam Martin (P), Jacob Bobenmoyer (LS)
RS: Diontae Spencer
#21: Chicago Bears
2020 Finish: 2nd NFC North | 8-8 (7th NFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Wild Card Round to NO (21-9)
GM: Ryan Pace | HC: Matt Nagy
The Bears are rolling with Andy Dalton to start the season at QB. On paper, that would be a recipe for disaster, but we should all expect a transition to Justin Fields as the starting QB at some point during the season. Only seven of their starters from the 2018 defense that carried an otherwise not-so-special Bears team to an NFC North title remain on the team. The question is if this defense can come to those same heights. Khalil Mack, in particular, is coming off a down season with drops across the production board. The question on if he is slowing down as he reaches his 30s or if he was simply banged up is yet to be answered. While they are a returning playoff team with a decent running game and still a solid defense, they have an okay floor, but the change to a new QB could lead to a few bumps on the road before they re-emerge as a true playoff contender.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Andy Dalton
RB: David Montgomery
WR: Allen Robinson II, Darnell Mooney, Marquise Goodwin
TE: Cole Kmet
OL: Elijah Wilkinson (LT), Cody Whitehair (LG), Sam Mustipher (C), James Daniels (RG), Germain Ifedi (RT)
DL: Akiem Hicks (LDE), Eddie Goldman (NT), Bilal Nichols (RDE)
EDGE: Khalil Mack (WLB), Robert Quinn (SLB)
ILB: Roquan Smith (LILB), Christian Jones (RILB)
CB: Jaylon Johnson (LCB), Kindle Vildor (RCB)
S: Tashaun Gipson Sr. (SS), Eddie Jackson FS)
ST: Cairo Santos (K), Pat O’Donnell (P), Patrick Scales (LS)
RS: Khalil Herbert (KR), Damiere Byrd (PR)
#20: Washington Football Team
2020 Finish: 1st NFC East | 7-9 (4th NFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Wild Card Round to TB (31-23)
GM: Martin Mayhew | HC: Ron Rivera
The Football Team is not going to be a sub-.500 team, yet at the same time, I have questions on if they have truly enough on offense to complement that vaunted defense of theirs if they want to rival the Cowboys for the NFC East division title. There is already a strong defensive backbone in the front seven, led by Chase Young and Montez Sweat. While Ryan Fitzpatrick is known for hot starts, he is also known for cold finishes. Still, he should be a temporary solution at QB until Washington finds a permanent one. Even with all the weapons in the world he can get, with the additions of Curtis Samuel and Adam Humphries, I still question on if they can truly take the next step. Don’t rule out the possibility of them repeating as NFC East champions, however, because this division is so unpredictable yet bad at the same time.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Ryan Fitzpatrick
RB: Antonio Gibson
WR: Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel*/Cam Sims, Adam Humphries
TE: Logan Thomas
OL: Charles Leno Jr. (LT), Wes Schweitzer (LG), Chase Roullier (C), Brandon Scherff (RG), Sam Cosmi (RT)
DE: Chase Young (LDE), Montez Sweat (RDE)
DT: Jonathan Allen (LDT), Da’Ron Payne (RDT)
LB: Jon Bostic (WLB), Jamin Davis (MLB), Cole Holcomb (SLB)
CB: Kendall Fuller (LCB), William Jackson III (RCB)
S: Landon Collins (SS), Kamren Curl (FS)
ST: Dustin Hopkins (K), Tress Way (P), Camaron Cheeseman (LS)
RS: DeAndre Carter
#19: New Orleans Saints
2020 Finish: 1st NFC South | 12-4 (2nd NFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Divisional Round to TB (30-20)
GM: Mickey Loomis | HC: Sean Payton
The Saints will try to go with a run game defense model in their first season in 15 years without Drew Brees. They’re going to lean a lot on Alvin Kamara and hope the defense is not declining around Cameron Jordan. However, Michael Thomas reportedly ghosted the team throughout the summer and angered Sean Payton with the timing of his ankle surgery, which is expected to keep him off the field entering the season. David Onyemata will begin the season on the suspension list after a positive PED list. Off-field issues have also put the availability of Marshon Lattimore in doubt. Even kicking issues have added on as well: Wil Lutz will miss extended time after undergoing core muscle surgery. It’s impossible to know how well this team will do in Jameis Winston’s first year as a starting QB since 2019, especially given the fact that over 590,000 homes and businesses in Louisiana are still without power after Hurricane Ida made landfall.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Jameis Winston
RB: Alvin Kamara
WR: Marquez Callaway, Tre’Quan Smith, Lil’Jordan Humphrey
TE: Adam Trautman
OL: Terron Armstead (LT), Andrus Peat (LG), Erik McCoy (C), Cesar Ruiz (RG), Ryan Ramczyk (RT)
DE: Cameron Jordan (LDE), Marcus Davenport (RDE)
DT: Christian Ringo (LDT), Malcolm Roach (RDT)
LB: Kwon Alexander (WLB), Demario Davis (MLB), Kaden Elliss (SLB)
CB: Ken Crawley (LCB), Marshon Lattimore (RCB)
S: Malcolm Jenkins (SS), Marcus Williams (FS)
ST: Wil Lutz (K), Blake Gillikin (P), Zach Wood (LS)
RS: Dwayne Washington (KR), Deonte Harris (PR)
#18: Minnesota Vikings
2020 Finish: 3rd NFC North | 7-9 (9th NFC)
GM: Rick Spielman | HC: Mike Zimmer
Kirk Cousins kept his decision on the COVID vaccine “private,” and missed time in training camp as a result. When he returned, he told the media about the idea of encasing himself in Plexiglass to help ward off the virus in the Vikings’ QB room. Mike Zimmer, on the other hand, continues to be outspoken in his frustration with players choosing not to be vaccinated, saying, “It’s important to be available when you’re playing football, a team sport.” Although Cousins insisted they are okay, there might be potential tension between coach & QB. Meanwhile, the Vikings are going into the 2021 season confident that they will have a more effective Zimmer style defense. While they did indeed lose Anthony Harris and Eric Wilson, and that there are notable holes, especially at cornerback. The hope is that the defensive unit performs better as a whole. This offense is still run-heavy on Dalvin Cook, which can set up Cousins for more efficient passing to Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen. Based on their schedule, they’re likely going to lose games they shouldn’t and underachieve. It’s not helping that Irv Smith Jr., who was poised for a breakout year, is expected to miss the 2021 season.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Kirk Cousins
RB: Dalvin Cook
WR: Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, KJ Osborn
TE: Tyler Conklin
OL: Rashod Hill (LT), Ezra Cleveland (LG), Garrett Bradbury (C), Oli Udoh (RG), Brian O’Neill (RT)
DE: Danielle Hunter (LDE), Stephen Weatherly (RDE)
DT: Michael Pierce (LDT), Dalvin Tomlinson (RDT)
LB: Nick Vigil (WLB), Eric Kendricks (MLB), Anthony Barr (SLB)
CB: Bashaud Breeland (LCB), Patrick Peterson (RCB)
S: Harrison Smith (SS), Xavier Woods (FS)
ST: Greg Joseph (K), Jordan Berry (P), Andrew DePaola (LS)
RS: Ihmir Smith-Marsette (KR), KJ Osborn (PR)
#17: New England Patriots
2020 Finish: 3rd AFC East | 7-9 (10th AFC)
GM and HC: Bill Belichick
The decision to move on from Cam Newton is a shocking one, but remember that he had seven interceptions in training camp. It’s now Mac Jones’s time in New England, and he has strung together good performances. Belichick respects Newton’s work ethic and tenacity, but Jones appears to have a real opportunity heading into the season. They’re still a strong defensive team aided by the additions of Matt Judon and Kyle Van Noy, and they will grind out games with a deep and versatile backfield while also using lots of two tight end sets. That will get them to the middle of the pack and short of making the playoffs.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Mac Jones
RB: Damien Harris
WR: Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor, Kendrick Bourne
TE: Jonnu Smith
OL: Isaiah Wynn (LT), Mike Onwenu (LG), David Andrews (C), Shaq Mason (RG), Trent Brown (RT)
DE: Matt Judon (LDE), Henry Anderson (RDE)
DT: Lawrence Guy (LDT), Davon Godchaux (RDT)
LB: J'Whaun Bentley (WLB), Dont'a Hightower (MLB), Kyle Van Noy (SLB)
CB: JC Jackson (LCB), Jalen Mills (RCB)
S: Adrian Phillips (SS), Devin McCourty (FS)
ST: Quinn Nordin (K), Jake Bailey (P), Joe Cardona (LS)
RS: Gunner Olszewski
#16: Indianapolis Colts
2020 Finish: 2nd AFC South | 11-5 (7th AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Wild Card Round to BUF (27-24)
GM: Chris Ballard | HC: Frank Reich
Did anyone find it weird that Carson Wentz and Quenton Nelson, the two most important figures on the Colts’ offense, were on the possibility of missing between 5 and 12 weeks after undergoing the same foot surgery just four days apart? That seemed very suspect. The good news for the Colts is that they returned on the earlier end of the timetable, which is a massive uplift, because of how tough the early part of their schedule is. They’re still a candidate for regression, however. They’ll still lean much on the running with Jonathan Taylor and a well-coached defense to win games, but they just don’t have the same overall offensive pop in comparison to when they had Philip Rivers last season.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Carson Wentz
RB: Jonathan Taylor
WR: Michael Pittman Jr., Parris Campbell, Zach Pascal
TE: Jack Doyle
OL: Matt Pryor (LT), Quenton Nelson (LG), Ryan Kelly (C), Mark Glowinski (RG), Braden Smith (RT)
DE: Kwity Paye (LDE), Tyquan Lewis (RDE)
DT: DeForest Buckner (LDT), Grover Stewart (RDT)
LB: Darius Leonard (LILB), Bobby Okereke (RILB)
CB: Rock Ya-Sin (LCB), Xavier Rhodes (RCB), Kenny Moore II (NB)
S: Khari Willis (SS), Julian Blackmon (FS)
ST: Rodrigo Blankenship (K), Rigoberto Sanchez (P), Luke Rhodes (LS)
RS: Isaiah Rodgers (KR), Nyheim Hines (PR)
#15: Miami Dolphins
2020 Finish: 2nd AFC East | 10-6 (8th AFC)
GM: Chris Grier | HC: Brian Flores
The Dolphins went through the offseason with the scare of losing Xavien Howard in the wake of the contract dispute between the two sides, but agreed to return on a restructured contract. This is the best outcome for the Dolphins, who believe are ready to make a move in the AFC and shouldn’t worry about trading their best players over salary disputes. While the Dolphins have also made enough changes on the offensive side of the ball, including the additions of speedsters Will Fuller and Jaylen Waddle, this should be considered as a second rookie season for Tua Tagovailoa. They want more passing plays, but their strength is a rushing game with multiple options, the primary one being Myles Gaskin. However, most of the burden will fall on the defense if the Dolphins want to win games this season.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Tua Tagovailoa
RB: Myles Gaskin
WR: DeVante Parker, Preston Williams, Jaylen Waddle
TE: Mike Gesicki
OL: Austin Jackson (LT), Liam Eichenberg (LG), Michael Dieter (C), Robert Hunt (RG), Jesse Davis (RT)
DL: Christian Wilkins (LDE), Raekwon Davis (NT), Emmanuel Ogbah (RDE)
EDGE: Andrew Van Ginkel (WLB), Brennan Scarlett (SLB)
ILB: Elandon Roberts (LILB), Jerome Baker (RILB)
CB: Xavien Howard (LCB), Byron Jones (RCB)
S: Eric Rowe (SS), Jason McCourty (FS)
ST: Jason Sanders (K), Michael Palardy (P), Blake Ferguson (LS)
RS: Jakeem Grant
#14: Dallas Cowboys
2020 Finish: 3rd NFC East | 6-10 (12th NFC)
GM: Jerry Jones | HC: Mike McCarthy
The Cowboys are always in the public eye, and that was the case when they were starring on Hard Knocks. The hope is that the team is fully healthy when they get back to action. Amari Cooper (ankle) and DeMarcus Lawrence (back) are coming off the PUP list and are getting their way back to the starting lineup. Same thing for Dak Prescott, who is working back from a shoulder injury. The defense hired Dan Quinn to be their new defensive coordinator, which is a huge upgrade over Mike Nolan. They also are bolstered by the addition of Micah Parsons, but the question is if it is really enough. This team is going to be inconsistent, but with Prescott healthy, this gives them a huge QB advantage over the rest of the NFC East. With that, they should take an improved, but still weak, division. They will be without Zack Martin for Week 1, however, because of his positive COVID test.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Dak Prescott
RB: Ezekiel Elliott
WR: Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup, CeeDee Lamb
TE: Blake Jarwin
OL: Tyron Smith (LT), Connor Williams (LG), Tyler Biadasz (C), Connor McGovern (RG), La'el Collins (RT)
DE: DeMarcus Lawrence (LDE), Randy Gregory (RDE)
DT: Osa Odighizuwa (LDT), Carlos Watkins (RDT)
LB: Leighton Vander Esch (WLB), Jaylon Smith (MLB), Micah Parsons (SLB)
CB: Anthony Brown (LCB), Trevon Diggs (RCB)
S: Donovan Wilson (SS), Damontae Kazee (FS)
ST: Greg Zuerlein (K), Bryan Anger (P), Jake McQuaide (LS)
RS: Tony Pollard (KR), CeeDee Lamb (PR)
#13: Arizona Cardinals
2020 Finish: 3rd NFC West | 8-8 (8th NFC)
GM: Steve Keim | HC: Kliff Kingsbury
The Cardinals got off to a 5-2 start but ended the season 3-6 after their bye week. Much was made about Kyle Murray’s shoulder injury that limited his play during the closing stretch, but the pressure is on head coach Kliff Kingsbury to have a better 2021 season in his third season with the team. The Cards were too conservative on offense, and their predictability made them easy to gameplan against. Murray is electric on the field, but the Cardinals can’t just wait for him to deliver magical plays left and right. Kingsbury’s job depends on building a more functional and unpredictable offensive attack and to get more explosive and harder to defend around Murray.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Kyler Murray
RB: Chase Edmonds
WR: DeAndre Hopkins, AJ Green, Christian Kirk
TE: Maxx Williams
OL: DJ Humphries (LT), Justin Pugh (LG), Rodney Hudson (C), Justin Murray (RG), Kelvin Beachum (RT)
DL: Leki Fotu (LDE), Rashard Lawrence (NT), JJ Watt (RDE)
EDGE: Chandler Jones (WLB), Markus Golden (SLB)
ILB: Zaven Collins (LILB), Isaiah Simmons (RILB)
CB: Byron Murphy Jr. (LCB), Robert Alford (RCB)
S: Jalen Thompson (SS), Budda Baker (FS)
ST: Matt Prater (K), Andy Lee (P), Aaron Brewer (LS)
RS: Andy Isabella (KR), Christian Kirk (PR)
#12: Pittsburgh Steelers
2020 Finish: 1st AFC North | 12-4 (3rd AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Wild Card Round to CLE (48-37)
GM: Kevin Colbert | HC: Mike Tomlin
As TJ Watt recently made his first appearance in team workouts, both him and the Steelers are still working on a contract extension that is set to have him be the highest paid defensive player in NFL history. The Steelers still have a top 3 defensive unit, especially in the front seven, and with a secondary headlined by Minkah Fitzpatrick. They don’t need a lot offensively to keep up in the playoff race, and moving away from heavy passing coming from Ben Roethlisberger in his 18th season and turning to Najee Harris to carry the load is wise as they attempt to contain Big Ben’s age in a revamped offense under offensive coordinator Matt Canada and his creative schemes, which can help JuJu Smith-Schuster, who was utilized horribly last season. The questions remain around an inexperienced O-line, but with how they played in the preseason, they could show signs of life.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Ben Roethlisberger
RB: Najee Harris
WR: Diontae Johnson, Chase Claypool, JuJu Smith-Schuster
TE: Eric Ebron
OL: Dan Moore Jr. (LT), Kevin Dotson (LG), Kendrick Green (C), Trai Turner (RG), Chukwuma Okorafor (RT)
DL: Chris Wormley (LDE), Tyson Alualu (NT), Cameron Heyward (RDE)
EDGE: TJ Watt (WLB), Alex Highsmith (SLB)
ILB: Devin Bush Jr. (LILB), Joe Schobert (RILB)
CB: Joe Haden (LCB), Cam Sutton (RCB)
S: Terrell Edmunds (SS), Minkah Fitzpatrick (FS)
ST: Chris Boswell (K), Pressley Harvin III (P), Christian Kuntz (LS)
RS: Ray-Ray McCloud
#11: Seattle Seahawks
2020 Finish: 1st NFC West | 12-4 (3rd NFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Wild Card Round to LAR (30-20)
GM: Jon Schneider | HC: Pete Carroll
The Seahawks got the passing game coordinator of the team they lost to in last year’s Wild Card Round in Shane Waldron and have promoted him to offensive coordinator. They’re still going to run the ball well, but Russell Wilson gets a boost here from a more diversified passing game. They recently resolved two hold-ins within the organization by agreeing to an extension with Jamal Adams and agreeing to restructure Duane Brown’s contract. While the defense is still finding its way back to a bounce-back season after a horrendous 2020, they should be solid enough to keep up the winning season run with Wilson.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Russell Wilson
RB: Chris Carson
WR: DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett
TE: Gerald Everett, Will Dissly
OL: Duane Brown (LT), Damien Lewis (LG), Ethan Pocic (C), Gabe Jackson (RG), Brandon Shell (RT)
DE: LJ Collier (LDE), Carlos Dunlap (RDE)
DT: Poona Ford (LDT), Al Woods (RDT)
LB: Jordyn Brooks (WLB), Bobby Wagner (MLB), Cody Barton (SLB)
CB: Tre Flowers (LCB), DJ Reed (RCB)
S: Jamal Adams (SS), Quandre Diggs (FS)
ST: Jason Myers (K), Michael Dickson (P), Tyler Ott (LS)
RS: DJ Reed (KR), Freddie Swain (PR)
#10: Tennessee Titans
2020 Finish: 1st AFC South | 11-5 (4th AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Wild Card Round to BAL (20-13)
GM: Jon Robinson | HC: Mike Vrabel
Derrick Henry has been the NFL’s best volume monster in the last two seasons, totaling 681 rushes since the 2019 season. That number goes upwards to 782 when you include the Titans’ four playoff games in that span. He is a huge athlete with a freakish physique, but you should also wonder when he will get a payday. He’s entering his age-27 season, and new offensive coordinator Todd Downing is unlikely to move past the Henry-dominant gameplan that helped Arthur Smith get a head coaching job. Henry remains part of one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFL, with Ryan Tannehill playing at a high level, with Julio Jones filling in the hole left behind by Corey Davis. The defense has considerable holes despite the addition of Bud Dupree, which could keep them from being on the same level as other AFC playoff teams.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Ryan Tannehill
RB: Derrick Henry
WR: Julio Jones, AJ Brown, Josh Reynolds
TE: Geoff Swaim
OL: Taylor Lewan (LT), Rodger Saffold III (LG), Ben Jones (C), Nate Davis (RG), David Quessenberry (RT)
DL: Jeffery Simmons (LDE), Teair Tart (NT), Denico Autry (RDE)
EDGE: Harold Landry (WLB), Bud Dupree (SLB)
ILB: Jayon Brown (LILB), Rashaan Evans (RILB)
CB: Janoris Jenkins (LCB), Kristian Fulton (RCB)
S: Amani Hooker (SS), Kevin Byard (FS)
ST: Sam Ficken (K), Brett Kern (P), Morgan Cox (LS)
RS: Cameron Batson (KR), Chester Rogers (PR)
#9: San Francisco 49ers
2020 Finish: 4th NFC West | 6-10 (10th NFC)
GM: John Lynch | HC: Kyle Shanahan
Injuries ravaged the 49ers last season, especially with the defense, including former Rookie of the Year winner Nick Bosa. Now, with the team fully healthy, they will have one of the most talented defenses in the league back along with one of the most balanced and explosive offenses whether it be Jimmy Garoppolo or Trey Lance, with the latter adding more dynamic elements to the game. What Lance did in the preseason has shades of when Chiefs reporters were hyping up Patrick Mahomes as he prepared to take the starting QB position from Alex Smith. Lance easily outplayed Garoppolo, which draws speculation that Lance could take over the starting QB position sooner than later. For now, Shanahan will play Lance “situationally,” but this is starting to feel like another Joe Flacco/Lamar Jackson QB situation.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Jimmy Garoppolo
RB: Raheem Mostert
WR: Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, Mohamed Sanu Sr.
TE: George Kittle
OL: Trent Williams (LT), Laken Tomlinson (LG), Alex Mack (C), Aaron Banks (RG), Mike McGlinchey (RT)
DE: Arik Armstead (LDE), Nick Bosa (RDE)
DT: Javon Kinlaw (LDT), DJ Jones (RDT)
LB: Dre Greenlaw (LILB), Fred Warner (RILB)
CB: Emmanuel Moseley (LCB), Jason Verrett (RCB), K’Waun Williams (NB)
S: Jaquiski Tartt (SS), Jimmie Ward (FS)
ST: Robbie Gould (K), Mitch Wishnowsky (P), Taybor Pepper (LS)
RS: JaMycal Hasty (KR), Brandon Aiyuk (PR)
#8: Los Angeles Chargers
2020 Finish: 3rd AFC West | 7-9 (11th AFC)
GM: Tom Telesco | HC: Brandon Staley
All eyes are on Derwin James as he looks to bounce back from two injury-plagued seasons. Will he be back to playing at elite levels? Or will lower body injury troubles strike again and rob him of the athletic explosiveness that made him one of the best safeties in the league? He was going back and forth with Keenan Allen during training camp, which is a sign of hope, given Allen’s pedigree as one of the best route-running wide receivers in the league. With Justin Herbert on the rise with Allen, Austin Ekeler, and Mike Williams as his weapons, along with a revamped O-line, don’t sleep on this Chargers team. Emphasize that now that they are coached by a defensive genius in Brandon Staley. He will have a large influence on the defense to perform to their highest abilities with Joey Bosa being the centerpiece.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Justin Herbert
RB: Austin Ekeler
WR: Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Jalen Guyton
TE: Jared Cook
OL: Rashawn Slater (LT), Matt Feiler (LG), Corey Linsley (C), Oday Aboushi (RG), Bryan Bulaga (RT)
DL: Jerry Tillery (LDE), Linval Joseph (NT), Justin Jones (RDE)
EDGE: Joey Bosa (WLB), Uchenna Nwosu (SLB)
ILB: Kenneth Murray Jr. (LILB), Drue Tranquill (RILB)
CB: Chris Harris Jr. (LCB), Michael Davis
S: Derwin James Jr. (SS), Nasir Adderley (FS)
ST: Tristan Vizcaino (K), Ty Long (P), Matt Overton (LS)
RS: Nasir Adderley (KR), KJ Hill (PR)
#7: Los Angeles Rams
2020 Finish: 2nd NFC West | 10-6 (6th NFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Divisional Round to GB (32-18)
GM: Les Snead | HC: Sean McVay
The Rams suffered a setback when sophomore RB Cam Akers went down with a season-ending Achilles injury. This became a huge opportunity for Darrell Henderson Jr. to take the starting spot. The addition of Sony Michel helps as well, but Henderson is best suited in a complementary role. While they are getting a little too much hype around Matt Stafford, there is no denying that he is a big upgrade over what Sean McVay wants offensively. They’re going to spread the ball around well with more big plays in the passing game. While the departure of Brandon Staley is going to hurt, along with a few key players defensively, they should still be the NFC West division favorites.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Matt Stafford
RB: Darrell Henderson Jr.
WR: Cooper Kupp, Van Jefferson, Robert Woods
TE: Tyler Higbee
OL: Andrew Whitworth (LT), David Edwards (LG), Brian Allen (C), Austin Corbett (RG), Rob Havenstein (RT)
DL: A'Shawn Robinson (LDE), Sebastian Joseph-Day (NT), Aaron Donald (RDE)
EDGE: Justin Hollins (WLB), Leonard Floyd (SLB)
ILB: Kenny Young (LILB), Troy Reeder (RILB)
CB: Darious Williams (LCB), Jalen Ramsey (RCB)
S: Jordan Fuller (SS), Taylor Rapp (FS)
#6: Baltimore Ravens
2020 Finish: 2nd AFC North | 11-5 (5th AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Divisional Round to BUF (17-3)
GM: Eric DeCosta | HC: John Harbaugh
With JK Dobbins, Justice Hill, and Gus Edwards out for the season, that marks two major blows to the Ravens’ running game. They added former Steeler Le’Veon Bell to make up for the losses and to pair with rookie RB Ty’Son Williams. However, Lamar Jackson is still around and he is only getting better. He continues to lead an efficient and explosive offense and is aided by a defense that has the right guys. They have the personnel to get a playoff run going. John Harbaugh’s team will be an AFC title challenger with a high level of personnel and coaching.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Lamar Jackson
RB: Ty’Son Williams
WR: Marquise Brown, Sammy Watkins, Rashod Bateman
TE: Mark Andrews
OL: Ronnie Stanley (LT), Ben Powers (LG), Bradley Bozeman (C), Kevin Zeitler (RG), Alejandro Villanueva (RT)
DL: Derek Wolfe (LDE), Brandon Williams (NT), Calais Campbell (RDE)
EDGE: Tyus Bowser (WLB), Justin Houston (SLB)
ILB: Malik Harrison (LILB), Patrick Queen (RILB)
CB: Anthony Averett (LCB), Marlon Humphrey (RCB)
S: Chuck Clark (SS), DeShon Elliott (FS)
ST: Justin Tucker (K), Sam Koch (P), Nick Moore (LS)
RS: Devin Duvernay
#5: Cleveland Browns
2020 Finish: 3rd AFC North | 11-5 (6th AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Divisional Round to KC (22-17)
GM: Andrew Berry | HC: Kevin Stefanski
The Browns have their plans on opening up the offense more with Baker Mayfield, and have promising reinforcements on defense behind now-DPOY favorite Myles Garrett. Garrett said that after a monstrous start to the season, he was slowed down after contracting COVID, a claim that was backed up by his pedestrian production in the latter games of the season. Now that he is back at full health and in his prime at age 25, he has the potential to break Michael Strahan’s sack record. Not to mention that Kevin Stefanski has established himself as one of the top coaches in the league and is organized for more success. Look for the Browns to possibly win the AFC North for the first time since 1989.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Baker Mayfield
RB: Nick Chubb
WR: Odell Beckham Jr., Jarvis Landry, Donovan Peoples-Jones
TE: Austin Hooper
OL: Jedrick Wills Jr. (LT), Joel Bitonio (LG), JC Tretter (C), Wyatt Teller (RG), Jack Conklin (RT)
DE: Myles Garrett (LDE), Jadeveon Clowney (RDE)
DT: Malik Jackson (LDT), Andrew Billings (RDT)
LB: Mack Wilson (WLB), Anthony Walker Jr. (MLB), Sione Takitaki (SLB)
CB: Denzel Ward (LCB), Greg Newsome II (RCB)
S: Ronnie Harrison Jr. (SS), John Johnson III (FS)
ST: Chase McLaughlin (K), Jamie Gillan (P)
RS: D’Ernest Johnson (KR), Donovan Peoples-Jones (PR)
#4: Green Bay Packers
2020 Finish: 1st NFC North | 13-3 (1st NFC)
Playoffs: Lost in NFC Championship Game to TB (31-26)
GM: Brian Gutekunst | HC: Matt LaFleur
Awkward press conferences between the Packers and Aaron Rodgers have been replaced by focused preparation for the 2021 season. He and Davante Adams are going for one last dance in Green Bay, as evidenced by them posting the same exact picture of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen on their Instagram stories. Life is good in Green Bay again. GM Brian Gutekunst might be a bit irritated, especially after he was essentially forced to bring back a familiar face to Green Bay at Rodgers’ request: Randall Cobb. However, the GM is too smart to let Rodgers’ ego get in the way. All in all, they don’t need to worry about Rodgers leaving in the short term, meaning that they should continue to be one of the best offenses in the league under Matt LaFleur. The Super Bowl window is getting smaller now, and if they don’t get more from their defense, it’s likely what is going to separate them from getting to the promised land over the Bucs and other teams.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Aaron Rodgers
RB: Aaron Jones
WR: Davante Adams, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Allen Lazard
TE: Robert Tonyan
OL: Elgton Jenkins (LT), Lucas Patrick (LG), Josh Myers (C), Royce Newman (RG), Billy Turner (RT)
DL: Dean Lowry (LDE), Kenny Clark (NT), Kingsley Keke (RDE)
EDGE: Preston Smith (WLB), Za’Darius Smith (SLB)
ILB: Krys Barnes (LILB), De’Vondre Campbell (RILB)
CB: Jaire Alexander (LCB), Kevin King (RCB)
S: Darnell Savage Jr. (SS), Adrian Amos (FS)
ST: Mason Crosby (K), Corey Bojorquez (P), Hunter Bradley (LS)
RS: Kylin Hill (KR), Amari Rodgers (PR)
#3: Buffalo Bills
2020 Finish: 1st AFC East | 13-3 (2nd AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in AFC Championship Game to KC (38-24)
GM: Brandon Beane | HC: Sean McDermott
Josh Allen produced what is most likely the best season a QB has enjoyed with the Bills, being rewarded with a $258M mega extension. This is the Bills’ ultimate vote of confidence in him, and they are not concerned that Allen’s breakout season in 2020 was preceded by two seasons of inconsistent play. They’re right to be confident, because Allen thrived in all cylinders last season, and he is locked in for the next six seasons with a Brian Daboll offense that knows how to get the most of him. They fully trust him and his cannon of an arm to a pass-heavy attack. The hope is that they run better and are less reliant on his legs. They still remain the biggest co-threat to the Chiefs, along with the Ravens and Browns.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Josh Allen
RB: Devin Singletary
WR: Emmanuel Sanders, Stefon Diggs, Cole Beasley
TE: Dawson Knox
OL: Dion Dawkins (LT), Jon Feliciano (LG), Mitch Morse (C), Cody Ford (RG), Daryl Williams (RT)
DE: Jerry Hughes (LDE), Mario Addison (RDE)
DT: Star Lotulelei (LDT), Ed Oliver (RDT)
LB: Matt Milano (LILB), Tremaine Edmunds (RILB)
CB: Tre’Davious White (LCB), Levi Wallace (RCB), Taron Johnson (NB)
S: Jordan Poyer (SS), Micah Hyde (FS)
ST: Tyler Bass (K), Matt Haack (P), Reid Ferguson (LS)
RS: Isaiah McKenzie
#2: Kansas City Chiefs
2020 Finish: 1st AFC West | 14-2 (1st AFC)
Playoffs: Lost in Super Bowl LV to TB (31-9)
GM: Brett Veach | HC: Andy Reid
It feels as if Patrick Mahomes will come back with a vengeance: A season for the ages. Soon to be 26, he is in his prime, and the retooling of his O-line should give him more time to do magic. Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce will continue dominating the league by putting up large numbers, but keep an eye out for Mecole Hardman, who should see more targets and more double teams as he steps into the role that Sammy Watkins had the past few seasons in KC. The defense, although not being among the league’s elite, still has enough complementary playmakers to make them a heavy favorite for three consecutive AFC titles. With Mahomes healthy, the Chiefs will continue to have a floor that is close to the ceiling of the league.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Patrick Mahomes II
RB: Clyde Edwards-Helaire
WR: Tyreek Hill, Mecole Hardman, Byron Pringle
TE: Travis Kelce
OL: Orlando Brown Jr. (LT), Joe Thuney (LG), Creed Humphrey (C), Trey Smith (RG), Lucas Niang (RT)
DE: Chris Jones (LDE), Frank Clark (RDE)
DT: Jarran Reed (LDT), Derrick Nnadi (RDT)
LB: Nick Bolton (LILB), Anthony Hitchens (RILB)
CB: Charvarius Ward (LCB), L’Jarius Sneed (RCB), Mike Hughes (NB)
S: Armani Watts (SS), Daniel Sorensen (FS)
ST: Harrison Butker (K), Tommy Townsend (P), James Winchester (LS)
RS: Mecole Hardman
#1: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2020 Finish: 2nd NFC South | 11-5 (5th NFC)
Playoffs: Super Bowl Champions—Won Super Bowl LV vs. KC (31-9)
GM: Jason Licht | HC: Bruce Arians
The legend of Tom Brady is still growing. He is returning for yet another season, his second with the Bucs, joining the most complete team in the NFL that boasts a receiving trio of Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Antonio Brown, arguably the NFL’s best receiving corps in the league, and it appears that AB remains on his best behavior in the second act of his up-and-down career. While Evans and Godwin should produce more or less on par with what they did a season ago, Brown should be the guy to watch, and has the potential to return to Pro Bowl form with a full year in the system. Plus, the Bucs have retained all their starters from Super Bowl LV! They continue to have a great blend of experience and youth with exceptional all-around coaching. They remain the team to beat as they are looking to repeat.
Projected Week 1 Starters
QB: Tom Brady
RB: Leonard Fournette
WR: Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Antonio Brown
TE: Rob Gronkowski
OL: Donovan Smith (LT), Ali Marpet (LG), Ryan Jensen (C), Alex Cappa (RG), Tristan Wirfs (RT)
DL: Ndamukong Suh (LDE), Vita Vea (NT), William Gholston (RDE)
EDGE: Jason Pierre-Paul (WLB), Shaquil Barrett (SLB)
ILB: Devin White (LILB), Lavonte David (RILB)
CB: Carlton Davis (LCB), Sean Murphy-Bunting (RCB)
S: Antoine Winfield Jr. (SS), Jordan Whitehead (FS)
ST: Ryan Succop (K), Bradley Pinion (P), Zach Triner (LS)
RS: Jaelon Darden
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