Here's how I see the division unfolding:
New England Patriots
The club had some key losses over the offseason, none bigger than that of kicker Adam Vinatieri, who not only decided to go elsewhere, but signed with the AFC rival Indianapolis Colts. Also gone are LB Willie McGinest and WR David Givens. The Patriots didn't do much to replace McGinest on the roster, but they did pick up former Chargers receiver Reche Caldwell to help fill the void left by Givens.
On top of that, New England has big concerns at inside linebacker, especially with Tedy Bruschi sidelined with a broken wrist. Deion Branch is still holding out, and they have yet to solidify the No. 2 receiver role. There are also concerns as to how well safety Rodney Harrison will bounce back from a devastating knee injury.
The good news is, they could slide veteran OLB Mike Vrabel to the inside if necessary. And with the league's best set of tight ends, Brady will have no shortage of targets to spread the ball around to, even if the receiver situation remains cloudy. Read more...
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins finished their 2005 campaign with six straight wins, and put together a fine offseason which should keep this team headed in the right direction. The team addressed most of their major concerns with additions along their offensive line, at quarterback, wide receiver, and in the defensive secondary.
Obviously a lot hinges on how well Daunte Culpepper, acquired during the offseason, bounces back from a devastating knee injury. At this point, all indications are good surrounding his recovery, but I'd caution fans not to get too excited at this point. Culpepper wasn't exactly lighting it up last year while he was healthy. So we don't know how he will bounce back from that aspect as well.
You also have to keep in mind that mobility is a big part of his game, and unfortunately, a lot of that mobility isn't going to be present this season... if ever again. It would not be a huge surprise if the team turns to Joey Harrington at some point during the season.
Regardless, the Dolphins are a team on the rise, who very realistically could unseat the Patriots in the AFC East this year. They face a tough schedule, but Saban has his guys ready to play every week. Anything less than a playoff appearance would be a disappointment for this year's squad. Read more...
Buffalo Bills
This year's version of the Bills features a revamped defense and a new offensive system. Despite a new system, however, the Bills' attack isn't keeping defensive coordinators around the league awake at night just yet. The one defensive coach who might be concerned though, is the Bills very own Perry Fewell, who must figure out how to hold opponents to a lower point total than his team's offense can muster.
Key, of course, is the play at quarterback and on the offensive line. The offense will revolve around the run game, led by a very capable Willis McGahee, but QB J.P. Losman has to open things up a little by connecting consistently when the opportunity presents itself. If the inconsistencies that have plagued him during his young career continue, defenses will simply stack the box, giving the Bills' running game little room to work with.
On defense, the Bills look suspect against the run again. But they did address the defensive tackle position in the draft and free agency, so there is some hope for improvement this year. The return of All-Pro linebacker Takeo Spikes is a huge shot in the arm which could boost this defense to above-average status. With solid linebackers and an improved secondary, the Bills seem to be on the right track defensively.
However, I don't think this team, despite any improvement on defense that should be coming, will have the offense to compete for the playoffs. Read more...
New York Jets
It's looking like Chad Pennington will be the New York Jets starting quarterback on opening day, assuming, of course, his arm doesn't fall off beforehand. But his apparent re-claiming of the top job barely begins to answer the questions surrounding this club.
Running back Curtis Martin, a model of stability and consistency throughout his career, looks to be finally breaking down and it's unclear if he'll suit up at all this season. Kevan Barlow was recently acquired from the 49ers, and if probably the team's best option.
Other areas of concern include a thin secondary, a lackluster receiving corps, and a questionable nose tackle. They did however beef up on their offensive line by grabbing two of the best available linemen in the draft. Read more...
