7 | New England Patriots
The Pats are the toughest team to gauge since Tom Brady’s exit puts a question mark over them that hasn’t existed in two decades. Bill Belichick is still an all-time great head coach and a defensive wizard who’ll make his team difficult to beat regardless of who’s under center. Taking Brady away though means we can’t just pencil the Pats in as a double-digit win team and AFC East winners.
6 | Seattle Seahawks
Once again the Seahawks had a head-scratching offseason. However, Russell Wilson is still their quarterback so it doesn’t feel like their offseason matters much. They’re going to be in the mix because Wilson is still under center. He’s also equipped with a better stable of receivers than he’s had in a long time. Now all Seattle needs to do is bring its offense into 2020 and they’ll be dangerous.
5 | Philadelphia Eagles
Injuries kept Philadelphia from winning double-digit games last year, and possibly winning a playoff game. Doug Pederson has done a nice job despite his ailing roster, and Carson Wentz threw for 4,039 yards and 27 touchdowns last season despite having to throw to nine different receivers, several of whom will not be on the team again in 2020. Their secondary should be better after trading for cornerback Darius Slay, and an influx of talent at receiver should put their offense in a better position to thrive.