1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The World Champions appear poised for another run at the title. And why not? They lost just three starters from their Super Bowl team, and an argument could be made that their replacements make them look even more impressive on paper.
Another season in Jon Gruden’s system should make the offense better, but they still haven’t solved their problems at running back. Michael Pittman emerged during the Super Bowl, but his off-field legal problems may keep him out of the lineup for a significant period of time. Defensively, the Bucs still look like the best in the league, possibly better than last season‘s version.
Bottom Line: This is still the same team that won the Super Bowl in January, but you always have to worry about a letdown in desire. The Bucs have to avoid this trap as well as all the distractions that go along with being champions. If they keep their heads on the field, they should control their division and challenge for a title again.
2. New Orleans Saints
The Saints are a real wildcard in this division. At times last season, they appeared to be among the best teams in the league, but at others, they looked like they didn’t belong in the top half of the division.
Defensively, the Saints got a lot tougher up the middle with the additions of rookie Jonathan Sullivan at defensive tackle, middle linebacker Orlando Ruff, and safety Tebucky Jones. If they can get solid play at corner, they should be a solid unit.
Head coach Jim Haslett is hoping quarterback Aaron Brooks can put it all together this year. He has all the weapons in place in with three solid receivers, an explosive back, and a solid tight end. Keeping Duece McAllister healthy will be a priority. The Saints were rolling early in the year with McAllister in the lineup, but after his ankle injury, they lost four of their final six games.
Bottom Line: The Saints may have a few issues to iron out defensively early in the schedule, but I think they may be somewhat of a surprise this year. They have a ton of talent on offense and should be a lot stronger on defense. I believe the will give the Bucs, who they beat twice last season, a run for their money this season.
3. Atlanta Falcons
The loss of Michael Vick could be devastating for this team, or it could be a growing experience. Warrick Dunn and T.J. Duckett should be able to pick up a lot of the slack on offense, and if backup QB Doug Johnson avoids costly mistakes, this team is still talented enough to compete with anyone in the league. The addition of wide receiver Peerless Price should ease some of the pressure on Johnson.
