A SERIES
#4 Atlanta Falcons 4-13
I cannot see Atlanta as a winning team this year; I just can’t. They are possibly headed in that direction with new coach, Arthur Smith; however, this season will be a transition year, at best. The Falcons will likely trade Julio Jones and this may be Matt Ryan’s last year in Atlanta. Meanwhile, the Falcons still have defensive issues, which will limit them to a 4th place finish.
#3 Carolina Panthers 8-9
The Panthers have the talent to go above 8 wins this year, but the Saints and the Bucs are just too good, honestly. Carolina traded for Sam Darnold and then traded Teddy Bridgewater to the Broncos. Darnold never enjoyed much support in New York, but he has weapons now in Carolina. Stud Christian McCaffery should bounce back from his injury-riddled 2020 and DJ Moore and Robby Anderson are a dangerous receiving tandem. Coach Matt Rhule is building a contender, but 2021 won’t be their year.
#2 New Orleans Saints 10-7
New Orleans is the big question in the South. Drew Brees, the future HOFer, has retired. His replacement is undecided. The candidates are Taysom Hill, who signed a mega-deal, and Jameis Winston, who resigned for one year. I foresee Winston starting for the Saints given his experience. On the other hand, Hill is more familiar with the playbook. Alvin Kamara and Michael Thomas are roster stars. I expect a playoff year for the Saints.
#1 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 13-4
The Bucs are primed for a deep playoff run. They retained all 22 starters, including Antonio Brown and Leonard Fournette. The receiver corps are as strong as ever: Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and AB. In addition, Gronk is paired with OJ Howard and Cam Brate. The defense still features the same players AND added first rounder Joe Tryon. I would not be surprised if the Bucs repeat.
I agree the Bucs will be tough with all returnees and unproven teams in the division.
Especially with TB12 still in the building.