ESPN analysts Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano this week discussed who were some of the NFL under-the-radar teams that might make the playoffs.
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In 2022, Washington sadly opened 1-4. The offense looked anemic, and another losing season looked certain. However, the Commanders suddenly won six of their next seven. They were now 7-5, in control of their own playoff destiny.
However, the offense struggled mightily to make plays, and the Commanders only went 1-3-1 in their last five games, losing out to the Giants for the final playoff spot.
Who is a team that did not make the playoffs in 2022 that most people will not be expecting to qualify in 2023?
Graziano selected the Falcons, citing this will be Desmond Ridder’s second season at quarterback for Atlanta, and they have recent draft selections that have shown great promise.
Fowler responded that he was taking Washington. Fowler elaborated that he was taking the Commanders primarily because of the defensive line returning, and the depth at wide receiver, which will help second-year quarterback Sam Howell. Fowler then also mentioned the contribution to the offense that newly hired offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy will be expected to make.
Interestingly enough, the offensive line has had the most questions in the offseason. The unit has new starters at both guard positions, Saahdiq Charles and Sam Cosmi, and a new center in Nick Gates. The Commanders also signed Andrew Wylie from the Chiefs to start at right tackle. This unit will need to help Sam Howell as he continues to learn a new offense and gain needed NFL experience, as he played only one game in 2022.