NFL 2021 Season: Best case for worst-to-first
Which NFL teams have the best chance to go from worst to first in their respective divisions in 2021? We rank them.
8. Detroit Lions
The Lions are in the midst of a complete rebuild. While Detroit might end up profiting from this new regime , it won’t be tangible in 2021 barring a stunning campaign. The Lions are going to be a last-place team again.
7. New York Jets
Yes, the Jets have enjoyed a nice offseason, including taking BYU quarterback Zach Wilson with the No. 2 overall pick. The problem? New York will live with the rookie mistakes of Wilson, along with a defense that still has to grow significantly.
6. Denver Broncos
If the Broncos can land Aaron Rodgers, then they shoot to the top of the list. However, without Rodgers, the combination of Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater isn’t going to scare the Kansas City Chiefs, let alone the Los Angeles Chargers.
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5. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are actually somewhat intriguing. The defense isn’t good, but the offense could be really fun if Joe Burrow stays healthy behind the new tackle combination of Jonah Williams and Riley Reiff.
4. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are trying to start a new era with first-time head coach Nick Sirianni and second-year quarterback Jalen Hurts. Reality says Philadelphia has a tough year ahead, but the NFC East is terrible and the Eagles, if Hurts plays great, could make the team an intriguing one.
3. Atlanta Falcons
The New Orleans Saints are without Drew Brees. The Carolina Panthers have myriad questions across both sides of the ball. If the Tampa Bay Buccaneers fall victim to age, injuries or both, the Falcons are in a solid position to ride a potentially elite offense to the division crown.
Read: Cowboys’ 2021 Hopes Rest On Health Of Dak Prescott
2. Jacksonville Jaguars
Surprised to see the Jags this high on the list? Consider the situation. Jacksonville added arguably the best quarterback prospect since Andrew Luck when it landed Trevor Lawrence on April 29. Furthermore, the Indianapolis Colts are depending on Carson Wentz, the Tennessee Titans lost a ton in NFL free agency, and the Houston Texans are the NFL’s biggest mess.
1. San Francisco 49ers
Although the NFC West is the league’s best division, this is the obvious choice. The 49ers went to the Super Bowl in 2019 before being ravaged by injuries last season. If San Francisco can stay healthy, there’s reason to believe the 49ers can win the West and make noise in January.
