The Philadelphia Eagles have owned the NFC over the past few years, and it appears they should remain the best in their division for at least one more season. The Dallas Cowboys have added an influx of defensive players, both veterans and rookies, and the New York Giants are counting on the arm of Eli Manning to lead them back to prominence. Conversely, the Washington Redskins appear to still be floundering with little direction apparent to the outside world.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys loaded up on the defensive side of the ball through free agency and the draft, and appear to have a very talented unit. But the addition of all the new faces, combined with a switch to a 3-4 set could cause some growing pains, especially early in the season. At times they will look brilliant, but there is likely to be some struggles as everyone gets on the same page.
Offensively, it’s a different story. The slow-footed drew Bledsoe was brought in to start at quarterback, but he struggles without great protection from the offensive line. Projected starter Jacob Rogers has already been lost to season-ending surgery, and he’ll likely be replaced by rookie Rob Pettiti. The youngster has shown potential, but if he, or anyone on the offensive line fails to keep pressure on Bledsoe, the veteran QB is likely to struggle.
The Cowboys appear to be on the right track, but I just don’t think they are ready to compete with the Eagles for the division title this year, although a Wild-Card playoff berth is not out of the question.
New York Giants
Obviously the Giants are committed to Eli Manning, and much of their success will depend on their second-year quarterback stepping things up from his rookie season. The addition of wide receiver Plaxico Burress gives Manning a big target who can get downfield, and the offensive line was upgraded with the addition of right tackle Kareem McKenzie. Bob Whitfield was another nice addition, and should add some depth to the position.
Defensively, the Giants must improve on stopping the run. The addition of free agent middle linebacker Antonio Pierce and the return of a healthy Michael Strahan at defensive end should pay immediate dividends. Fred Robbins is a solid defensive tackle, but former frist-round pick William Joseph needs to step up to really solidify the run defense. Despite being ranked 28th against the run last year, the Giants ranked 13th overall. So if they can stiffen the defensive front, they have the potential for a top-ten defense this year.
Like the Cowboys, the Giants have the potential to leap into the division race this year, but most likely they will battle with the Cowboys for a Wild-Card slot in the playoffs. The continued development of Manning is the key.
Philadelphia Eagles
Assuming they are not overwhelmed with injuries and Terrell Owens behaves himself the rest of the year (big assumption) the Eagles are easily the favorite in the NFC East. McNabb and Owens, despite their public feud, are a dangerous combination. However, if something were to happen to Owens, the club will be relying on a bunch of unproven players at wideout. Todd Pinkston isn’t the type of receiver that puts far into defensive coordinators’ hearts, but his loss to injury means the Eagles must have someone step up into the No. 2 role.
