#1: The New York Jets
In 2022, the Jets put together one of the best drafts I’d witnessed and acquired three future stars: Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson, and Breece Hall. As a result, the 2022 season showed sparks suggesting the Jets could be a playoff contender. However, injuries to Hall, linemen Mekhi Becton, and Alijah Vera-Tucker crippled the team in the home stretch. But don’t despair, the defense, led by Gardner and John Franklin-Myers has a bright future although maybe not as brilliant as the offense. With future Hall of Famer, Aaron Rodgers, at the helm, the Jets are poised for a top-tier attack in 2023. New acquisitions Allen Lazard and Mecole Hardman will spread the field for Rodgers, while Randall Cobb will provide a familiar outlet for AR. Expect greatness for the Jets in 2023!
#2: The Philadelphia Eagles
Philly just made a spectacular Super Bowl run and yet, somehow, enter the 2023 season looking even better. The Eagles started the offseason by resigning Jalen Hurts to a massive contract extension worth 200 million dollars, and bringing back vets Jason Kelce, Darius Slay, and James Bradberry. Philly did lose a few pieces, such as their 2022 tackle leader TJ Edwards and emerging star Miles Sanders. However, I believe Philly masterfully replaced their losses with Deandre Swift and the high-risk high-reward signing of Rashaad Penny. Philly’s notable draft picks include University of Georgia’s Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith. Carter is a generational interior rusher, however he does have some character concerns. Meanwhile, Smith is an athletic specimen although underwhelming, at times, in college. With many returning pieces and many new faces, Philly is ready to make another run.
#3: The Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals have remained very quiet, but productive during the offseason. During free agency and the draft, Cincy addressed their biggest needs at EDGE and offensive tackle. Orlando Brown Jr. was a tremendous acquisition for the Bengals. Brown, a hulking tackle, can protect against the rush and can push down the field to support the run. The Bengals also selected EDGE Myles Murphy in the first round of the draft. Murphy is a young defender with plenty of room to grow into his role. Meanwhile, late round sleeper Charlie Jones was a very explosive college star who could become a solid pro. The biggest question surrounding Cincy will be replacing Jessie Bates ll. Daxton Hill, a 2022 first-rounder, proved to be a disappointing add and Vonn Bell left for Carolina. Cincy will need to find some secondary help before the season starts in order to keep pace with Buffalo and Kansas City.
