Post by Cincinnati Bengals (Chris) on Sept 14, 2022 3:08:04 GMT -5
NFC EAST
2021 marked the end of a ridiculous streak in league history, as for the first time in four years, the NFC East did not produce the CDFL champion. The first two of those Super Bowls were won by Andrew’s Philadelphia Eagles (Also a league first, as no team had/has won two-consecutive championships), followed by Aaron’s magical 2020 season that reminded that good teams that get hot at the right time can win it all. But for the defending champion Cowboys, 2021 served as a sobering crash back to Earth. It’s never pleasant when you discover that you don’t like the new you (And the same goes for when your franchise quarterback frequents the New U Salon Spa). Sometimes, the two are related—and that was definitely the case for Dallas last year, and why he shouldn’t be judged too harshly on that championship defense. Aaron’s slide back down the ladder means that the East only produced one playoff team in 2021. Therefore, in respect to the division’s championship defense, that mantle would be laid at the feet of Andrew alone—a mantle that he would ultimately be unable to hold up, as he was upset by the Super Bowl runner-up Tampa Bay Buccaneers. How the division as a whole will fare in 2022 is a worthwhile question—especially as Deshaun Watson will miss most of our regular season again. Can Dallas hold out until the return of his franchise quarterback? Will Philly start another historic run of divisional and league success? Can Mal finally get over the hump and be the team that he always seems on the precipice of building (And avoid injuries)? And how long/real is Dave’s rebuild? Can he be competitive and re-insert himself into the division/playoff race now? Let me know what you think about my projections and post you own comments. Also, DON’T FORGET to vote in the poll, as that’s the whole point.
Dallas Cowboys (Aaron)
Last year’s finish: 21st (Division: 2nd)
Outlook: As mentioned above, Deshaun Watson’s suspension had a massive effect on the Cowboys’ title defense/season finish. It caused Aaron to have to rely on one of the league’s very worst quarterback situations (And offenses) instead of one of the very best. It also meant that he had to employ multiple quarterbacks across the season, although he was smart in drafting Davis Mills (And upon Watson’s return, he’ll clearly be able to reap the rewards of that decision, whichever way he decides to go), and either lucked into or knew that he would become one of the very few mid-round QBs capable of starting and looking like they actually belong. The early returns on Mills are good, and he looks like he’s a big part of the Texans’ future. But, this time a year ago it was a well past his prime Tyrod Taylor, paired with Derrick Henry, Stefon Diggs, Chris Godwin, Allen Robinson, and Ronald Jones (Among others). If that’s Watson at the helm of that high performance machine, it’s likely that Dallas would’ve been right back in that conversation for a championship. With Taylor in tow, it was more like handing the keys to an F1 car to a kid who drives a Geo. However, quarterback was far from Dallas’ only issue. Robinson (And the entire Chicago offense) put out a putrid campaign, no doubt partly because of the fact that his coach refused to run him on a route more than 10 yards for at least the first quarter of the season. Also, the defense was far from championship caliber, once more. This was remedied a bit as the season moved on, but it still had its weak spots (Particularly at linebacker), with only one player at the position average or better. The biggest news from the latter part of the season though was the trade that he swung for Aaron Jones and A.J. Johnson, moving Derrick Henry in the process. That drastically changed the fortunes for the future, especially pertaining to the cap considerations of Henry (Which Sal gladly inherited for the upgrade at running back). This year, the Cowboys have run most of that group back. It’s still Mills, Jones, Diggs, Godwin, Jordan Akins, Robinson, and Jones—BUT, with the addition of rookie speedster Skyy Moore, who may be blocked out of significant playing time in the early going. Tight end, however, has all warts and no roses, as Aaron chose to roll with only Jordan Akins again, despite the fact that he was cut from the Giants at the roster deadline, and is now only on the Texans’ practice squad. Defensively, it’s a partially reconstructed group, with Javon Hargrave, B.J. Hill, and Austin Johnson up front. Linebacker is still in a pretty precarious spot, with only Ja’Whan Bentley as an above average option at the position. There was a time when Cory Littleton was among the best IDP options out there, but that time is seemingly gone. Beyond those two, only Jahlani Tavai is even rostered, and he scored 11.6 total points in 2021 (And posted 1.2 in Week 1). Defensive back looks to be in okay shape, with Xavier Woods, Carlton Davis, and Amani Oeuwariye making up a triumvirate of better than average (Or even elite, in the case of Woods) options. That said, the defense is a solidly bottom-half unit, with no evidence of help on the way (In terms of younger players who should work their way into a job).
X-factor: Tight end and linebacker. Davis Mills has solidified himself as no longer a worry (At least unless and until he proves himself to be one again), so that leaves two real problem areas on this roster: tight end, and linebacker in that order. While only one is an above average performer, at least at linebacker, Aaron has a few active players, whereas at tight end, Akins is not on a 53-man roster. That could change, though two O.J. Howard touchdowns in the opening week make that look a tad unlikely. Further, and significant investment is needed in those positions—otherwise, it’s likely the difference between this Cowboys team being a division winner, and a team that misses the playoffs entirely once again.
Projected division finish: 4th
New York Giants (Malachi)
Last year’s finish: 25th (Division: 3rd)
Outlook: When Josh Castle managed Miami, he was notoriously unlucky when it came to injuries—Like, seriously unlucky…as in, the unluckiest GM in league history. Since he left in 2019, Malachi has taken up that mantle (Unwittingly), at least amongst current league members. It feels like to date, Malachi always goes all-in every couple of years, and the Giants are in a constant state of crashing, and burning, and resurrection (Almost like a Phoenix). However, this time, at least as it appears, is different. Malachi has built a stable of talent that other GMs should be truly envious of, and health provided, I think he will get his first sniff of postseason action this year. In 2021, he had to sit through the Andy Dalton sheparding of his first round pick Justin Fields (Who, due to his rushing ability, may be a better quarterback in fantasy football than he has shown so far in real life), a season-ending injury to Irv Smith, Corey Davis, Landon Collins, and J.J. Watt missing in action for much of the year, and Benardrick McKinney being cut. Since the sound of the bell on the close of last season, however, Mal has added the following players: Cordarelle Patterson, Jeff Wilson, Van Jefferson, Braxton Berrios, George Karlaftis, Jayon Brown, Dennis Gardeck, and Julian Love. If there were an off-season of the year award, Mal would definitely be in the running. The embarrassment of riches he now has in terms of running back depth is stark, and is one of the top in the league. In addition to Patterson (Who blew up again in Week 1), and Wilson, who will now serve as the 49ers de facto starter after Elijah Mitchell’s injury (Though it’s impossible to know how valuable that is with Deebo Samuel lurking around for backfield touches), the Giants also sport Devin Singletary, the primary back for the Super Bowl darling Bills. Moving from one strength to another, this wide receiver corps is by far that the best that Malachi has had since entering the league. Michael Pittman is the clear #1, followed by Davis, Jefferson, Berrios, and Tylan Wallace (Should he be able to get on the field and flex his talent in a short Baltimore receiving corps). Tight end is in equally good shape, with Irv Smith back in the fold, and Tre’ McKitty a member of Los Angeles’ rotation there. Defensively, this is the team that New York has been building toward for years. A line comprised of J.J. Watt, A’Shawn Robinson, Michael Brockers, and George Karlaftis is among the very best in the league. At linebacker, Anthony Walker, Matthew Judon, Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts, Brown, and Gardeck make up one of the best/deepest units in the league, at least in terms of sheer numbers/depth. Defensive back is probably the weakest spot, with only Julian Love and Jaycee Horn on the roster. The Giants could use another quality DB or two to cover byes and guard against injuries.
X-factor: Health. New York is in the best position since Malachi took over (And then sometime before as well). While I could harp on the defensive back issue, I’m confident that if push comes to shove, he’ll address the issue (Which is possible because of the fact that defensive back is the most readily-available position on the free agent market, meaning with little to no investment, Mal can fix that ail). However, it does feel different that I’m having to nitpick a problem for this team. Therefore, and based on the past, the biggest and most important hurdle for the Giants to get past is health, and until Mal clears that bar, the false steps aplenty from years past will continue to rear its head.
Projected division finish: 3rd
Philadelphia Eagles (Andrew)
Last year’s finish: 10th (Division: 1st)
Outlook: The Eagles start the 2022 season in the catbird seat once more, after reclaiming the division in 2021, and being the only NFC East playoff representative. That said, last year’s Eagles didn’t have the feel of a vintage Andrew contender, and both the numbers and the results bore that out (Hence the sub-1600 point effort on the season, and the first round exit). Andrew took pretty extraordinary measures to improve (Especially for an already contending team) in light of that, culminated with the acquisition of 4-touchdown playoff standout Gabriel Davis (Though it did cost Michael Thomas, at one time the #1 WR in all of football, impossible though it is to judge his value based on his last few injury absentee seasons). Otherwise, offensively, the unit remains very much unchanged, with Dak Prescott manning the quarterback position (Note: Since this writing, he has been injured, and will miss anywhere between a reported 4-10 weeks), who has been an excellent fantasy bet in every year of his career sans one (His sophomore slump). I would once again bet on the same, even under Mike McCarthy, and even with a depleted stable of weapons and offensive line. At running back, Damien Harris, Marlon Mack, and DeeJay Dallas all return, and are reinforced as well by Matt Breida, Zamir White, and Tyrion Davis-Pierce. It’s certainly the deepest RB corps in the league in terms of numbers, but four of the six on the roster have questionable roles (Or are free agents) right out of the gate. The only one with a guaranteed role at this juncture is Harris (And rumors have him ceding a significant amount of snaps, or even losing the job to Rhamondre Stevenson). But, there is a lot of talent and future promise with this group. At wideout, the aforementioned Davis is far from the only talent, as Philly also returns DK Metcalf, and added Will Fuller (Who is as of this writing, is still awaiting a call from an NFL team), and rookie David Bell. It’s therefore, a little light in the depth department, for a contender, but the two top options are so strong that, with health, it’s likely that Andrew won’t need that much else outside of bye week fill-ins. At tight end, George Kittle returns as a top-3 option, with an ever-growing (At least in terms of hype) backup option in reserve in Harrison Bryant. Defensively, it’s another elite unit, though once more, feels a bit off from the vintage Andrew defenses of the past. Shaquille (The former Darius) Leonard, is still the anchor in the middle of the defense, and though he currently has an injury designation (And a bit worrying, as it’s his back), once mended, he should return to his normal, dominant self. Beyond him, Myles Jack (Who recently took his talents to the Steel City) also returns. Beyond those two names, however, Philadelphia’s linebacker spot is as weak as I can remember throughout my time in the league. The other two names at the position are Jacob Phillips, and Brian Asamoah—maybe still future factors, but two players who do not figure for the massive snap loads required to carve out consistent fantasy value. The defensive line and secondary are in pretty good shape, however. While depth is a little short on the line (With only Chris Jones and Davin Godchaux available), each of those players has proven their plaudits over their careers so far, and they represent, at a minimum, solid, consistent fantasy options—and I would expect more of the same out of them. In terms of defensive back, Jamal Adams leads the way, as one of the very best defensive players (Forget DBs) in the game. Along with him are Anthony Brown, Eric Murray, and Keanu Neal. It should be a solid group (Though after writing this, Adams went down with a potentially season-ending injury once more).
X-factor: Health and depth. Despite some of the short-term shortcomings, Andrew is still the king of the NFC East (Though I think his margin could once more be thin). His excellent starting options, when healthy, should carry him to another division championship, though to win the whole thing, he’ll certainly need much more quality depth than he currently possesses. Without it, it may be an early playoff exit once more.
Projected division finish: 1st
Washington Football Team (Dave)
Last year’s finish: 26th (Division: 4th)
Outlook: For the last five years, Dave has been embracing the rebuild with this group—twice reaching 5-7 during that stretch, but also realizing that wasn’t sustainable, and that there was a market for some of his better players, did the unsexy thing—he stayed the course instead of going all in, and collected seeds that are now bearing fruits. This all in the goal of getting back to the level the Redskins were at in 2015-16, in which Dave not only won a division, he compiled a 16-8 record while doing so. Furthermore, every time Dave makes the post-season, it’s an opportunity for everyone in this league (Seasoned veterans and newbies alike) to witness the work of ‘Playoff Dave’ (A character much like Date Night Mike, a Gigantamax Poke´mon, or Playoff Rondo). I know it seems hard to fathom, but Dave has actually had the most success (He is tied for the most current wins again Cecil, and has multiple low seed playoff upsets of the league’s best manager in its history. That speaks to how dangerous he can be if given the opportunity to play in the post-season—an opportunity that he should have a reasonable chance at achieving this year. The reason for that starts with having a quarterback who has had even a single good game in the last half decade, as opposed to last year with Cam Newton (That may be a little harsh, but he’s persistently been among the very worst, if not THE very worst QB in the NFL for going on three years now). Therefore, Jameis Winston (Even the version that was throwing 30 interceptions in a season, which, I do feel like he’s moved on from, at least so some degree) qualifies, using that criteria. It continues with a ton of impact players on both sides of the ball, such as Miles Sanders, Elijah Moore, Mike Gesicki, Rashaad Penny, Rashod Bateman, Michael Gallup (Once he’s healthy), Rachaad White, Sterling Shepard, Marcus Davenport, Joey Bosa, Devin Lloyd, Grant Delpit, and Danielle Hunter. At running back, that triumvirate of Sanders, Penny, and White is one of the best in the league, and should be plenty deep in case of injuries (Even with the history of Penny). At wideout, Moore, Gallup, Bateman, Shepard, and Reagor is an excellent, and deep group as well. Tight end is only manned by Gesicki, but there’s no questioning his talent after multiple top-10 finishes at the position. None of the players are near the very top of their positional rankings (For now), but the overall strength in numbers helps to mostly make up the difference. Defensively, it’s mostly a great unit, though the bench resembles the walking wounded. The grouping of Davenport, Okwara, and Rasheem Green profiles as a top-half DL with upside, whereas linebacker brings Devin Lloyd, Rashan Gary, Bosa, Hunter, Deion Jones, Jayson Oweh, Josey Jewell, and Christian Harris to the table. Despite the numbers (And the familiar names), it’s perhaps the biggest problem area on the roster right now, as three of that group are injured right now (Two on IR), and a further three other defenders carry injury tags entering the season. Despite the depth (And forgetting that some of those players are no longer preferred by/don’t have a role on their respective teams), it’s nothing if those players don’t either latch on to other teams (Or regain their jobs/form) at some juncture of the season. Assuming that some of them do so, the depth is probably enough to carry Washington through the end of the season. Unfortunately, the biggest member of the secondary to-date is out of action for the time being as well, as Tre’Davious White is still recovering from the ACL injury he suffered late last year. But, second year players Grant Delpit, and Jevon Holland should make up the difference while White is gone.
X-factor: Health. Dave has built a contender by way of being patient, collecting assets, and capitalizing at the right times. It may not be sexy, but it can also win championships. Dave is well on his way to that level of achievement, and if his players can get and stay healthy (And earn/earn back their roles), it’s hard to look at this team and not see postseason in their near or very near future.
Projected division finish: 2nd
Thank you for reading this, the fourth in the series of Divisional Previews—the NFC East. I will publish the fifth installment, this time the AFC West tomorrow.
2021 marked the end of a ridiculous streak in league history, as for the first time in four years, the NFC East did not produce the CDFL champion. The first two of those Super Bowls were won by Andrew’s Philadelphia Eagles (Also a league first, as no team had/has won two-consecutive championships), followed by Aaron’s magical 2020 season that reminded that good teams that get hot at the right time can win it all. But for the defending champion Cowboys, 2021 served as a sobering crash back to Earth. It’s never pleasant when you discover that you don’t like the new you (And the same goes for when your franchise quarterback frequents the New U Salon Spa). Sometimes, the two are related—and that was definitely the case for Dallas last year, and why he shouldn’t be judged too harshly on that championship defense. Aaron’s slide back down the ladder means that the East only produced one playoff team in 2021. Therefore, in respect to the division’s championship defense, that mantle would be laid at the feet of Andrew alone—a mantle that he would ultimately be unable to hold up, as he was upset by the Super Bowl runner-up Tampa Bay Buccaneers. How the division as a whole will fare in 2022 is a worthwhile question—especially as Deshaun Watson will miss most of our regular season again. Can Dallas hold out until the return of his franchise quarterback? Will Philly start another historic run of divisional and league success? Can Mal finally get over the hump and be the team that he always seems on the precipice of building (And avoid injuries)? And how long/real is Dave’s rebuild? Can he be competitive and re-insert himself into the division/playoff race now? Let me know what you think about my projections and post you own comments. Also, DON’T FORGET to vote in the poll, as that’s the whole point.
Dallas Cowboys (Aaron)
Last year’s finish: 21st (Division: 2nd)
Outlook: As mentioned above, Deshaun Watson’s suspension had a massive effect on the Cowboys’ title defense/season finish. It caused Aaron to have to rely on one of the league’s very worst quarterback situations (And offenses) instead of one of the very best. It also meant that he had to employ multiple quarterbacks across the season, although he was smart in drafting Davis Mills (And upon Watson’s return, he’ll clearly be able to reap the rewards of that decision, whichever way he decides to go), and either lucked into or knew that he would become one of the very few mid-round QBs capable of starting and looking like they actually belong. The early returns on Mills are good, and he looks like he’s a big part of the Texans’ future. But, this time a year ago it was a well past his prime Tyrod Taylor, paired with Derrick Henry, Stefon Diggs, Chris Godwin, Allen Robinson, and Ronald Jones (Among others). If that’s Watson at the helm of that high performance machine, it’s likely that Dallas would’ve been right back in that conversation for a championship. With Taylor in tow, it was more like handing the keys to an F1 car to a kid who drives a Geo. However, quarterback was far from Dallas’ only issue. Robinson (And the entire Chicago offense) put out a putrid campaign, no doubt partly because of the fact that his coach refused to run him on a route more than 10 yards for at least the first quarter of the season. Also, the defense was far from championship caliber, once more. This was remedied a bit as the season moved on, but it still had its weak spots (Particularly at linebacker), with only one player at the position average or better. The biggest news from the latter part of the season though was the trade that he swung for Aaron Jones and A.J. Johnson, moving Derrick Henry in the process. That drastically changed the fortunes for the future, especially pertaining to the cap considerations of Henry (Which Sal gladly inherited for the upgrade at running back). This year, the Cowboys have run most of that group back. It’s still Mills, Jones, Diggs, Godwin, Jordan Akins, Robinson, and Jones—BUT, with the addition of rookie speedster Skyy Moore, who may be blocked out of significant playing time in the early going. Tight end, however, has all warts and no roses, as Aaron chose to roll with only Jordan Akins again, despite the fact that he was cut from the Giants at the roster deadline, and is now only on the Texans’ practice squad. Defensively, it’s a partially reconstructed group, with Javon Hargrave, B.J. Hill, and Austin Johnson up front. Linebacker is still in a pretty precarious spot, with only Ja’Whan Bentley as an above average option at the position. There was a time when Cory Littleton was among the best IDP options out there, but that time is seemingly gone. Beyond those two, only Jahlani Tavai is even rostered, and he scored 11.6 total points in 2021 (And posted 1.2 in Week 1). Defensive back looks to be in okay shape, with Xavier Woods, Carlton Davis, and Amani Oeuwariye making up a triumvirate of better than average (Or even elite, in the case of Woods) options. That said, the defense is a solidly bottom-half unit, with no evidence of help on the way (In terms of younger players who should work their way into a job).
X-factor: Tight end and linebacker. Davis Mills has solidified himself as no longer a worry (At least unless and until he proves himself to be one again), so that leaves two real problem areas on this roster: tight end, and linebacker in that order. While only one is an above average performer, at least at linebacker, Aaron has a few active players, whereas at tight end, Akins is not on a 53-man roster. That could change, though two O.J. Howard touchdowns in the opening week make that look a tad unlikely. Further, and significant investment is needed in those positions—otherwise, it’s likely the difference between this Cowboys team being a division winner, and a team that misses the playoffs entirely once again.
Projected division finish: 4th
New York Giants (Malachi)
Last year’s finish: 25th (Division: 3rd)
Outlook: When Josh Castle managed Miami, he was notoriously unlucky when it came to injuries—Like, seriously unlucky…as in, the unluckiest GM in league history. Since he left in 2019, Malachi has taken up that mantle (Unwittingly), at least amongst current league members. It feels like to date, Malachi always goes all-in every couple of years, and the Giants are in a constant state of crashing, and burning, and resurrection (Almost like a Phoenix). However, this time, at least as it appears, is different. Malachi has built a stable of talent that other GMs should be truly envious of, and health provided, I think he will get his first sniff of postseason action this year. In 2021, he had to sit through the Andy Dalton sheparding of his first round pick Justin Fields (Who, due to his rushing ability, may be a better quarterback in fantasy football than he has shown so far in real life), a season-ending injury to Irv Smith, Corey Davis, Landon Collins, and J.J. Watt missing in action for much of the year, and Benardrick McKinney being cut. Since the sound of the bell on the close of last season, however, Mal has added the following players: Cordarelle Patterson, Jeff Wilson, Van Jefferson, Braxton Berrios, George Karlaftis, Jayon Brown, Dennis Gardeck, and Julian Love. If there were an off-season of the year award, Mal would definitely be in the running. The embarrassment of riches he now has in terms of running back depth is stark, and is one of the top in the league. In addition to Patterson (Who blew up again in Week 1), and Wilson, who will now serve as the 49ers de facto starter after Elijah Mitchell’s injury (Though it’s impossible to know how valuable that is with Deebo Samuel lurking around for backfield touches), the Giants also sport Devin Singletary, the primary back for the Super Bowl darling Bills. Moving from one strength to another, this wide receiver corps is by far that the best that Malachi has had since entering the league. Michael Pittman is the clear #1, followed by Davis, Jefferson, Berrios, and Tylan Wallace (Should he be able to get on the field and flex his talent in a short Baltimore receiving corps). Tight end is in equally good shape, with Irv Smith back in the fold, and Tre’ McKitty a member of Los Angeles’ rotation there. Defensively, this is the team that New York has been building toward for years. A line comprised of J.J. Watt, A’Shawn Robinson, Michael Brockers, and George Karlaftis is among the very best in the league. At linebacker, Anthony Walker, Matthew Judon, Patrick Queen, Elandon Roberts, Brown, and Gardeck make up one of the best/deepest units in the league, at least in terms of sheer numbers/depth. Defensive back is probably the weakest spot, with only Julian Love and Jaycee Horn on the roster. The Giants could use another quality DB or two to cover byes and guard against injuries.
X-factor: Health. New York is in the best position since Malachi took over (And then sometime before as well). While I could harp on the defensive back issue, I’m confident that if push comes to shove, he’ll address the issue (Which is possible because of the fact that defensive back is the most readily-available position on the free agent market, meaning with little to no investment, Mal can fix that ail). However, it does feel different that I’m having to nitpick a problem for this team. Therefore, and based on the past, the biggest and most important hurdle for the Giants to get past is health, and until Mal clears that bar, the false steps aplenty from years past will continue to rear its head.
Projected division finish: 3rd
Philadelphia Eagles (Andrew)
Last year’s finish: 10th (Division: 1st)
Outlook: The Eagles start the 2022 season in the catbird seat once more, after reclaiming the division in 2021, and being the only NFC East playoff representative. That said, last year’s Eagles didn’t have the feel of a vintage Andrew contender, and both the numbers and the results bore that out (Hence the sub-1600 point effort on the season, and the first round exit). Andrew took pretty extraordinary measures to improve (Especially for an already contending team) in light of that, culminated with the acquisition of 4-touchdown playoff standout Gabriel Davis (Though it did cost Michael Thomas, at one time the #1 WR in all of football, impossible though it is to judge his value based on his last few injury absentee seasons). Otherwise, offensively, the unit remains very much unchanged, with Dak Prescott manning the quarterback position (Note: Since this writing, he has been injured, and will miss anywhere between a reported 4-10 weeks), who has been an excellent fantasy bet in every year of his career sans one (His sophomore slump). I would once again bet on the same, even under Mike McCarthy, and even with a depleted stable of weapons and offensive line. At running back, Damien Harris, Marlon Mack, and DeeJay Dallas all return, and are reinforced as well by Matt Breida, Zamir White, and Tyrion Davis-Pierce. It’s certainly the deepest RB corps in the league in terms of numbers, but four of the six on the roster have questionable roles (Or are free agents) right out of the gate. The only one with a guaranteed role at this juncture is Harris (And rumors have him ceding a significant amount of snaps, or even losing the job to Rhamondre Stevenson). But, there is a lot of talent and future promise with this group. At wideout, the aforementioned Davis is far from the only talent, as Philly also returns DK Metcalf, and added Will Fuller (Who is as of this writing, is still awaiting a call from an NFL team), and rookie David Bell. It’s therefore, a little light in the depth department, for a contender, but the two top options are so strong that, with health, it’s likely that Andrew won’t need that much else outside of bye week fill-ins. At tight end, George Kittle returns as a top-3 option, with an ever-growing (At least in terms of hype) backup option in reserve in Harrison Bryant. Defensively, it’s another elite unit, though once more, feels a bit off from the vintage Andrew defenses of the past. Shaquille (The former Darius) Leonard, is still the anchor in the middle of the defense, and though he currently has an injury designation (And a bit worrying, as it’s his back), once mended, he should return to his normal, dominant self. Beyond him, Myles Jack (Who recently took his talents to the Steel City) also returns. Beyond those two names, however, Philadelphia’s linebacker spot is as weak as I can remember throughout my time in the league. The other two names at the position are Jacob Phillips, and Brian Asamoah—maybe still future factors, but two players who do not figure for the massive snap loads required to carve out consistent fantasy value. The defensive line and secondary are in pretty good shape, however. While depth is a little short on the line (With only Chris Jones and Davin Godchaux available), each of those players has proven their plaudits over their careers so far, and they represent, at a minimum, solid, consistent fantasy options—and I would expect more of the same out of them. In terms of defensive back, Jamal Adams leads the way, as one of the very best defensive players (Forget DBs) in the game. Along with him are Anthony Brown, Eric Murray, and Keanu Neal. It should be a solid group (Though after writing this, Adams went down with a potentially season-ending injury once more).
X-factor: Health and depth. Despite some of the short-term shortcomings, Andrew is still the king of the NFC East (Though I think his margin could once more be thin). His excellent starting options, when healthy, should carry him to another division championship, though to win the whole thing, he’ll certainly need much more quality depth than he currently possesses. Without it, it may be an early playoff exit once more.
Projected division finish: 1st
Washington Football Team (Dave)
Last year’s finish: 26th (Division: 4th)
Outlook: For the last five years, Dave has been embracing the rebuild with this group—twice reaching 5-7 during that stretch, but also realizing that wasn’t sustainable, and that there was a market for some of his better players, did the unsexy thing—he stayed the course instead of going all in, and collected seeds that are now bearing fruits. This all in the goal of getting back to the level the Redskins were at in 2015-16, in which Dave not only won a division, he compiled a 16-8 record while doing so. Furthermore, every time Dave makes the post-season, it’s an opportunity for everyone in this league (Seasoned veterans and newbies alike) to witness the work of ‘Playoff Dave’ (A character much like Date Night Mike, a Gigantamax Poke´mon, or Playoff Rondo). I know it seems hard to fathom, but Dave has actually had the most success (He is tied for the most current wins again Cecil, and has multiple low seed playoff upsets of the league’s best manager in its history. That speaks to how dangerous he can be if given the opportunity to play in the post-season—an opportunity that he should have a reasonable chance at achieving this year. The reason for that starts with having a quarterback who has had even a single good game in the last half decade, as opposed to last year with Cam Newton (That may be a little harsh, but he’s persistently been among the very worst, if not THE very worst QB in the NFL for going on three years now). Therefore, Jameis Winston (Even the version that was throwing 30 interceptions in a season, which, I do feel like he’s moved on from, at least so some degree) qualifies, using that criteria. It continues with a ton of impact players on both sides of the ball, such as Miles Sanders, Elijah Moore, Mike Gesicki, Rashaad Penny, Rashod Bateman, Michael Gallup (Once he’s healthy), Rachaad White, Sterling Shepard, Marcus Davenport, Joey Bosa, Devin Lloyd, Grant Delpit, and Danielle Hunter. At running back, that triumvirate of Sanders, Penny, and White is one of the best in the league, and should be plenty deep in case of injuries (Even with the history of Penny). At wideout, Moore, Gallup, Bateman, Shepard, and Reagor is an excellent, and deep group as well. Tight end is only manned by Gesicki, but there’s no questioning his talent after multiple top-10 finishes at the position. None of the players are near the very top of their positional rankings (For now), but the overall strength in numbers helps to mostly make up the difference. Defensively, it’s mostly a great unit, though the bench resembles the walking wounded. The grouping of Davenport, Okwara, and Rasheem Green profiles as a top-half DL with upside, whereas linebacker brings Devin Lloyd, Rashan Gary, Bosa, Hunter, Deion Jones, Jayson Oweh, Josey Jewell, and Christian Harris to the table. Despite the numbers (And the familiar names), it’s perhaps the biggest problem area on the roster right now, as three of that group are injured right now (Two on IR), and a further three other defenders carry injury tags entering the season. Despite the depth (And forgetting that some of those players are no longer preferred by/don’t have a role on their respective teams), it’s nothing if those players don’t either latch on to other teams (Or regain their jobs/form) at some juncture of the season. Assuming that some of them do so, the depth is probably enough to carry Washington through the end of the season. Unfortunately, the biggest member of the secondary to-date is out of action for the time being as well, as Tre’Davious White is still recovering from the ACL injury he suffered late last year. But, second year players Grant Delpit, and Jevon Holland should make up the difference while White is gone.
X-factor: Health. Dave has built a contender by way of being patient, collecting assets, and capitalizing at the right times. It may not be sexy, but it can also win championships. Dave is well on his way to that level of achievement, and if his players can get and stay healthy (And earn/earn back their roles), it’s hard to look at this team and not see postseason in their near or very near future.
Projected division finish: 2nd
Thank you for reading this, the fourth in the series of Divisional Previews—the NFC East. I will publish the fifth installment, this time the AFC West tomorrow.
