Top 5 NFL Teams Predicted to Make the Biggest Improvements in the 2019 Season
The Cleveland Browns
Off the top of my head, and not having had the time to conduct extensive research regarding the upcoming season, my hunch would be the Cleveland Browns. The Browns have been historically bad since they re-entered the league in 1999. However, in the last 2 or 3 years, they have drafted very well, resulting in a roster that is not just talented but young and talented. Last season, they selected quarterback Baker Mayfield with the first pick in the draft, and he had a pretty solid, if not spectacular, rookie season. Many experts have been using the term "playoff caliber" to describe the Cleveland defense for the last couple of years.
With Mayfield gaining a year of experience and the addition of Odell Beckham Jr. via trade from the Giants, the offense is poised to catch up to that defense. I have the Browns slated to make the playoffs as the second Wild-Card in the AFC. The first 6 weeks of the season will tell the tale.
The Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons lost three defensive starters, including Deion Jones, an excellent pass defender. However, they have since regained these players and drafted two offensive linemen. Matt Ryan had an excellent year without an improved line, and 2019 should see a significant improvement. Additionally, getting back Dirk Koetter from Tampa Bay should improve an already potent offense. Atlanta has also grown stronger in the trenches, both offensively and defensively, on both sides. This will help in stabilizing their performance. Cam Newton has remained consistent, but Ryan Tannehill has never fully put it together. Atlanta will likely take the NFC South and the NFC Championship, playing against San Diego in the Superbowl and winning.
The Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Jets
The Jacksonville Jaguars have all the talent in place and are set to make a real run to the Superbowl this season. However, if they have another bad season, they will be in real trouble. They have invested in a win-now mode rather than prolonged rebuilding phases, which fans often dislike. The New York Jets should also see an improvement in their win/loss record, although it might not be as substantial as the Browns or Falcons.
In summary, the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, the potential surprise of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the steady improvement of the New York Jets are the top 5 teams predicted to make the biggest improvements in the 2019 NFL season.
Conclusion
The 2019 NFL season presents exciting possibilities for these teams, with the Browns leading the way in terms of improvement. As always, only the first 6 weeks of the season will truly tell which teams can consistently outperform and make the playoffs. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting what the upcoming season will bring.
Key Points
The Cleveland Browns have young, talented rosters and should be playoff contenders. The Atlanta Falcons are set to improve with their returning players and new linemen. The Jacksonville Jaguars have the talent to make a run to the Super Bowl but need to avoid another bad season. The New York Jets may see moderate improvements in their record in 2019.Keywords
NFL team improvement, Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Jets