The AFC East landscape looks drastically different than it did 18 months ago when the Dolphins embraced the idea of a rebuild. And this looming shift appears to be a part of Miami’s plans, too — because when all the young talent comes of age for the Miami Dolphins, the continued evolution of the East will have Miami square in the thick of things.
That’s the plan, anyway. As we brace for the 2020 season, where has each team most improved?
Buffalo Bills
Most Improved: Big play potential
Adding WR Stefon Diggs to an already promising supporting cast is going to leave QB Josh Allen with very few excuses this season. Allen has surprised with his team success — and although he’s still a very high variance quarterback, he’s found more success than his doubters seemed to embrace back in 2018. Diggs was an expensive purchase for the Bills — but the team thinks they are “close” to a big breakthrough. If they are, and if Diggs brings the explosive plays needed to push them over the edge, he’ll be worth it.
Miami Dolphins
Most Improved: Secondary
Miami was playing good football at the end of the year while effectively playing street free agents in the secondary. Getting Xavien Howard and Bobby McCain healthy will help the cause. So, too, will the additions of Byron Jones and Noah Igbinoghene this offseason as prized add-ons. The Dolphins’ blueprint for coverage is clear — they’re going to press you and bring the heat.
New England Patriots
Most Improved: Offensive scheme diversity
The Patriots were one of the first teams to make multiple tight ends a staple of their personnel groupings. It’s a strategy that, when featuring competent players, will stress opposing defenses to match the run/pass versatility a team can bring to the field. The Patriots’ tight end group was in sorry shape last season — so the Patriots went out and added two 3rd-round pass catching targets to the mix to help bolster the diversity of the offense; which was key in life after Tom Brady.
New York Jets
Most Improved: Offensive line
The Jets’ offensive line still shouldn’t be considered “good”, but adding a promising mauler in Mekhi Becton to the mix while also tacking on center Connor McGovern in free agency should help. The Jets’ offense was in sorry shape last season under the direction of Adam Gase — although if Miami’s experiences are any indication, we’re not sure the help up front is going to bring different results.