Mutliple ESPN contributors analyzed which NFL teams have the best outlook moving forward.
Based on several factors pertaining to the team, including full roster, quarterback, draft history, coaching, and front office decisions, the contributors project which teams will have the most success over the course of the next three seasons.
The Buffalo Bills earned the top spot on this ranking.
The ESPN analysts gave the Bills glowing marks in several categories. Buffalo earned the top spot in the league with their roster (minus quarterback) and front office. It makes sense, as good management leads to a strong roster and good decisions.
ESPN NFL insider Field Yates gave the rationale why Buffalo landed at No. 1 on this list:
Brandon Beane has executed a masterclass in roster building since becoming the Bills’ general manager in 2017. The foundation of this roster has been built via the draft, but we’ve also seen calculated swings in both free agency and trades — most prominently to land receiver Stefon Diggs. The roster is loaded, head coach Sean McDermott is outstanding, and the Bills are poised for a major step forward this year.
The Bills were ranked second in the quarterback category, falling behind only the Kansas City Chiefs with Patrick Mahomes.
While Buffalo earned the top score, the analysts did see an areaof concern for the team. Studio analyst Louis Riddick highlighted some worry regarding the team’s pass rush. Free agent signing Von Miller provides short-term help, but the long-term needs a bit more of an improvement for the defense as a whole. Riddick highlighted:
For Buffalo to get over the hump, it needs its defense — both the front and the coverage — to deliver when it matters the most. And it remains to be seen if it can.
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, though, sees improvement with Buffalo’s backfield. The signing of Duke Johnson along with second-round draft pick James Cook can help with the passing game out of the backfield.
Meanwhile, Devin Singletary provides a good first option for the running backs.
Now, the Bills need to take all of this potential and turn it into a deep playoff run. The teams that follow the Bills in this ranking (Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, Los Angeles Rams) all have had continued success for a long period of time.
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