NFL crew previews 2023: Predictions, sleepers, intensity charts

The 2023 NFL season kicks off Thursday night time, when the reigning Tremendous Bowl champion Chiefs host the Lions (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC).

Week 1 then continues on Sunday with 14 thrilling matchups — together with the Cowboys visiting the Giants on “Sunday Evening Soccer” (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC). The Expenses head a bit of south to stand the Jets to around out the slate on “Monday Evening Soccer,” which you’ll be able to catch at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC and ESPN+.

To welcome again soccer, NFL Country journalists recognized strengths and weaknesses of all 32 groups, NFL analyst Matt Bowen named a myth sleeper you must imagine, analytics creator Seth Walder made 32 daring predictions and ESPN’s Stats & Data division gave a stat to grasp for each crew heading into the season. As well as, you can to find the probabilities for each crew to win its department and make the playoffs, projected wins at the season and the power of agenda. Plus, intensity charts, schedules and rosters for each crew.

That is the entirety you want to grasp for the beginning of the season, which can conclude Feb. 11 at Tremendous Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. The ESPN Soccer Energy Index (FPI) ranked each crew from 1 to 32 in line with the way it initiatives the season to play out. The Chiefs get started us off at No. 1:

Soar to a crew:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LV | LAC | LAR | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH

ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC West: 56%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 77%
Projected wins: 10.6
Power of agenda: 2d toughest

What do the Chiefs do the most productive?

Rating issues. The Chiefs led the league in scoring remaining season and display no indicators of slowing down. Actually, the offense could be stepped forward. New offensive tackles Donovan Smith and Jawaan Taylor performed neatly in camp and the preseason and seem to be an improve from remaining season. The Chiefs are deep with playmakers at large receiver, and with Patrick Mahomes at quarterback and Andy Reid calling the performs, the Chiefs once more glance potent. — Adam Teicher

What’s the Chiefs’ greatest weak point?

Go rush. The Chiefs remaining season have been moment within the league in sacks. However Chris Jones‘ holdout continues whilst some other in their peak pass-rushers, Charles Omenihu, was once suspended via the league for the primary six video games as a result of a contravention of the league’s non-public behavior coverage. The Chiefs nonetheless have some gamers able to hanging stress on opposing quarterbacks, maximum particularly finish George Karlaftis. However do they have got sufficient to generate constant stress? — Teicher

Stat to grasp: For instance how essential Jones is to the Chiefs’ protection, let’s check out the numbers previously 5 seasons with and with out Jones at the area — in keeping with NFL Subsequent Gen stats. When he performs, the QBR of combatants is decrease (52), the protection’s stress proportion is upper (35%) and third-down conversions are 10% decrease (38%).

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Justyn Ross. Take a shot on Ross overdue as a result of he may just expand a job in one of the vital league’s maximum explosive passing offenses. And Ross has all of the bodily gear to win perimeter matchups for quarterback Mahomes. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion Soccer Draft Information

Daring prediction for 2023: CB Trent McDuffie will make the Professional Bowl. In 2022, McDuffie ranked tenth amongst exterior corners with a minimum of 300 protection snaps in yards consistent with protection snap allowed (0.9). That is a promising signal for a participant getting into his moment season. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC East: 48%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 74%
Projected wins: 10.5
Power of agenda: 3rd toughest

What do the Expenses do the most productive?

Keep in video games. Since 2019, the Expenses have completed with the most productive issues margin consistent with recreation (8.4), this means that no longer solely is Buffalo successful via an important margin but additionally shedding shut video games, making outlier video games just like the playoff loss to the Bengals stand out. The Expenses are robust on offense at the back of Josh Allen, however the protection has allowed the fewest passing yards consistent with recreation since 2019 (200.8), which will likely be examined with more than one defenders coming off accidents. — Alaina Getzenberg

What’s the Expenses’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line. The intensity at the Expenses’ line has taken more than one hits with take on Brandon Shell deciding to retire and take on Tommy Doyle struggling what trainer Sean McDermott referred to as a “season-ending damage” in the second one preseason recreation. The crew did herald a reinforcement, signing veteran Germain Ifedi, and appreciated what it noticed from younger linemen Ryan Van Demark and Alec Anderson, however the query stays if the paintings completed will likely be sufficient as retaining Allen wholesome is the crew’s peak precedence. — Getzenberg

Stat to grasp: Since Stefon Diggs joined the Expenses in 2020, Allen’s profession numbers have stepped forward. His Overall QBR went from 50 to 71 and his final touch proportion rose from 56% to 65%.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Damien Harris. Harris has the prospective to emerge as the principle goal-line again for the high-scoring Buffalo offense. Even with Allen seeing designed carries within the crimson zone, Harris is a bodily runner who may just convey landing manufacturing to myth lineups. — Bowen

Extra: Adam Schefter’s myth soccer cheat sheet (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Deonte Harty will end moment amongst Expenses gamers in receiving yards after Diggs. I stay enthusiastic about Harty’s 2021 numbers, when he posted a ludicrous 2.9 yards consistent with direction run and an 81 open rating (consistent with ESPN’s Receiver Monitoring Metrics) with the Saints. Teaming up with Allen must be a excellent factor for him. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC North: 44%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 73%
Projected wins: 10.6
Power of agenda: sixteenth toughest

What do the Bengals do the most productive?

Run an effective offense. Remaining season, the Bengals ranked 5th in issues consistent with pressure (2.34) and crimson zone potency (64.9%), the very best finishes in the ones classes within the Joe Burrow technology. Even if defenses pressured Burrow into shorter passes to achieve yards, Cincinnati nonetheless ended 27.8% of its drives for touchdowns. If the Bengals can create extra drives and take care of that landing charge, the mix may just yield one of the vital NFL’s very best offenses. — Ben Child

What’s the Bengals’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line. The Bengals have considerably stepped forward the offensive line over the last two years via hanging new starters in any respect 5 spots. On the other hand, there is nonetheless an opening between that unit and the others at the crew. Bringing in Orlando Brown Jr. at left take on, transferring Jonah Williams to proper take on and a moment yr of chemistry for the internal gamers may well be the most important to making improvements to a unit that ranked thirtieth in go block win charge (50.1%) in 2022. — Child

Stat to grasp: The Bengals signed Brown, a peak loose agent, this offseason — and for excellent explanation why. Since drafting Burrow in 2020, Cincinnati has had the worst go block win charge (49.6%) within the NFL. And solely the Bears (152) have allowed extra sacks than the Bengals (147) in that span.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Chase Brown. As a complementary choices at the back of starter Joe Mixon, Brown has the touch steadiness and one-cut working talent to pepper the ball between the tackles. He treated heavy quantity all through his ultimate season at Illinois. If Mixon have been to leave out recreation time, Brown would turn into a myth starter to your lineup, having the ability to unlock out of the backfield within the go recreation. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer Final Draft Board (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Burrow will set the brand new usual for final touch proportion over expectation (CPOE), beating out Matt Ryan‘s plus-8.3% in 2016. Burrow’s elite trait is accuracy — he led the league in CPOE in 2021 with a plus-6%, and he has remarkable receivers over again. That can permit him to determine the very best mark within the metric, which was once advanced via NFL Subsequent Gen Stats in 2016. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC East: 52%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 82%
Projected wins: 10.3
Power of agenda: twelfth toughest

What do the Eagles do the most productive?

Put defenses in a bind. With quarterback Jalen Hurts working an offense in line with the run-pass possibility, he can stay the ball, hand it off or hearth a go relying on what the opponent does post-snap. The consequences remaining season inform the story: Philadelphia completed 1/3 in general yards (389.1 consistent with recreation), 5th in dashing yards (147.6) and 9th in passing yards (241.5 consistent with recreation). With a supporting solid round Hurts that includes A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert and now D’Andre Swift, defenses will likely be hard-pressed to seek out excellent solutions on the way to sluggish this assault. — Tim McManus

What’s the Eagles’ greatest weak point?

Linebacker and protection. The Eagles misplaced more than one starters at every place in loose company. Nakobe Dean and Zach Cunningham glance to be in line to take over at linebacker, whilst Philly has but to land on a dance spouse to play reverse Reed Blankenship at protection. Younger gamers like Dean and rookie Sydney Brown be offering promise, however this can be a in large part unproven staff enjoying for brand new coordinator Sean Desai. One field to look at is how this unit plays in opposition to the run. The 2022 model of the protection struggled in opposition to the bottom assault in spurts, together with in Tremendous Bowl LVII when it allowed 158 yards on 26 carries (6.1 reasonable) in opposition to the Chiefs. — McManus

Stat to grasp: In 2022, the Eagles become the primary crew to have 4 other gamers with double-digit sacks in a season since person sacks become professional in 1982. Simplest Javon Hargrave isn’t returning of the ones 4 gamers (Haason Reddick, Brandon Graham and Josh Sweat).

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Kenneth Gainwell. The Eagles will proceed to make use of a committee method of their backfield, however Gainwell has the characteristics to affect each the run and the go recreation. He is a late-round bench stash who may just emerge from the pack to look constant touches. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer mock draft: 12-team, PPR

Daring prediction for 2023: The Eagles will rank within the peak 10 in designed go charge. They ranked twenty second within the class remaining season however transfer as much as twelfth if we glance solely at performs run when a recreation’s win likelihood is between 15% and 85%. In different phrases, the Eagles need to go; they only have been successful via an excessive amount of too steadily remaining yr. That is related for Hurts and the Eagles’ pass-catchers in myth. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC West: 64%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 82%
Projected wins: 10.2
Power of agenda: thirteenth absolute best

What do the 49ers do the most productive?

Play protection. No disrespect to the Niners’ deep provide of offensive ability, however this can be a defensive unit that returns 8 starters and added elite defensive take on Javon Hargrave within the offseason. New coordinator Steve Wilks would possibly not alternate a lot schematically, however his background operating with defensive backs must assist enhance that staff, which some observers imagine the prospective weak point of this protection. The Niners had a peak protection remaining season, and they will view anything else lower than that as a letdown in 2023. — Nick Wagoner

What’s the 49ers’ greatest weak point?

The kicking recreation. Because it stands, the Niners shouldn’t have a wholesome kicker, let on my own a confirmed one. Rookie kicker Jake Moody was once superb in apply all through coaching camp however has struggled within the preseason video games and is now coping with a proper quad damage. Given the Niners’ Tremendous Bowl expectancies, Moody would possibly not have time to ease his method in when wholesome. Misses in preseason video games do not imply a lot, however Robbie Gould, the kicker Moody is changing, had by no means neglected a area target or further level in 68 profession postseason makes an attempt, a difficult act for Moody to apply on a crew making plans to play in playoff video games in January. — Wagoner

Stat to grasp: Quarterback Brock Purdy returns from proper elbow surgical operation to start out Week 1. He is a great 5-0 within the steady season. Purdy recorded six directly video games with more than one passing TDs within the steady season, which is tied for the fourth-longest streak via a 49ers quarterback for the reason that merger. He was once particularly efficient when coping with stress remaining season. From Week 13 on, he had the second-highest final touch proportion (58.3%) and second-highest yards consistent with strive (8.2) when harassed.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Elijah Mitchell. In trainer Kyle Shanahan’s schemed run recreation, you’ll be able to tag Mitchell as one of the vital league’s peak backup runners. If Christian McCaffrey have been to leave out time, Mitchell would transfer up as an RB2 together with his decisive working taste and short-area velocity to supply dashing totals. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer draft scores

Daring prediction for 2023: George Kittle will succeed in 1,000 receiving yards for the primary time since 2019. In spite of fewer receiving yards over the last few seasons, Kittle’s receiving talent hasn’t wavered. In every of the previous 4 seasons, he has ranked within the peak two within the receiver monitoring metrics’ total rating amongst tight ends. He additionally established a rapport with Purdy overdue remaining season that may repay in 2023. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC East: 25%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 52%
Projected wins: 9.4
Power of agenda: 5th toughest

What do the Dolphins do the most productive?

Stretch a protection, as any offense with large receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle must. The Dolphins have been tied for many completions of fifty or extra yards (8) within the NFL remaining season, and most certainly would have led outright if quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remained wholesome all the season. He’s again after an offseason concerned with his sturdiness, and Miami must be close to (or at) the highest of the league on this class as soon as once more. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

What’s the Dolphins’ greatest weak point?

Particular groups. The Dolphins have been one of the vital worst groups within the NFL at returning and protecting returns. Dolphins combatants began drives with the third-best reasonable area place (minus-27.6) within the league remaining season, which put a pressure on their protection. It is a space that will have to enhance this season; and the addition of former All-Professional returner Braxton Berrios must assist. — Louis-Jacques

Stat to grasp: With the likes of Hill and Waddle downfield, Tagovailoa ranked first in final touch proportion (59%) and yards consistent with strive (15.9) on throws a minimum of 15 yards downfield in 2022. He additionally transformed a primary down on 57 passes of a minimum of 15 yards, which was once tied for moment within the NFL.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB De’Von Achane. Achane was once operating via a shoulder damage in camp, however the rookie has the flexible ability set to be deployed from more than one alignments in trainer Mike McDaniel’s gadget, just like the run recreation, fly sweeps and receiving objectives. Achane is a unexpected mover with playmaking characteristics. Working again Jeff Wilson Jr. will leave out time to start out the season. — Bowen

Extra: Matt Bowen’s favourite draft objectives (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Dolphins will end as a top-three protection relating to EPA allowed consistent with play, even with cornerback Jalen Ramsey anticipated to leave out many of the steady season. With defensive take on Christian Wilkins, cornerbacks Xavien Howard and Kader Kohou, edge rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, protection Jevon Holland and linebacker David Lengthy Jr., there is an excessive amount of ability for Vic Fangio to paintings with for this protection not to be excellent. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC West: 27%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 52%
Projected wins: 9.4
Power of agenda: 7th toughest

What do the Chargers do the most productive?

Throw the ball. It is obvious that the offense is at its very best when enabling quarterback Justin Herbert to make use of his arm power to throw downfield to any of his playmakers — all of whom he has established a relaxed reference to. In 3 seasons, Herbert has thrown for 14,089 yards (essentially the most via a participant’s first 3 seasons in NFL historical past) and 94 touchdowns (the second one maximum via a participant’s first 3 seasons in historical past — Dan Marino, 98). — Lindsey Thiry

What’s the Chargers’ greatest weak point?

Uncertainty at working again and tight finish. Working again Austin Ekeler is the established starter, however it is unclear if Joshua Kelley and Isaiah Spiller have made sufficient development of their construction to supply Ekeler a breather and be relied directly to shoulder some load. At tight finish, the place the Chargers opted to not upload intensity within the draft, Gerald Everett will likely be trusted because the starter with Donald Parham Jr. at the back of him. — Thiry

Stat to grasp: The Chargers have excessive expectancies for protection Derwin James Jr. in 2023. He is a flexible defender — 55% of his snaps remaining season got here at protection, however he additionally spent 25% of the time as an out of doors linebacker and either one of his interceptions got here as a cornerback. James is one in all 3 gamers over the last two seasons with 5 sacks, 5 pressured fumbles and 10 passes defended (Isaiah Simmons, T.J. Watt).

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Isaiah Spiller. Spiller is competing with Kelley for the No. 2 function at the back of Ekeler. I am having a bet at the upside of Spiller, given his second-level elusiveness and lower-body steadiness. He may just emerge as the highest insurance coverage again for the Chargers. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer gamers to steer clear of: The Do No longer Draft checklist (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Herbert will lead all non-Mahomes quarterbacks in QBR. The whole lot is there for him — robust receivers, excellent go coverage and a brand new offensive coordinator in Kellen Moore. Herbert has had an excellent begin to his profession, however he’s going to take some other step in 2023. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC North: 28%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 60%
Projected wins: 9.8
Power of agenda: seventeenth toughest

What do the Ravens do the most productive?

Submit issues. Since 2019, the Ravens have averaged 26.9 issues with Lamar Jackson as their beginning quarterback — which is just about what the Chiefs have averaged with Mahomes over that span (27.3). Now, Jackson has the most productive supporting solid of his six-year profession with the addition of large receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flora. The Ravens additionally employed Todd Monken as their offensive coordinator after his offense averaged 40.7 issues remaining season at Georgia. — Jamison Hensley

What’s the Ravens’ greatest weak point?

Cornerback. With Marlon Humphrey perhaps lacking the beginning of the season after having foot surgical operation, the Ravens’ peak choices at cornerback are 3 gamers who’re coming off accidents: Rock Ya-Sin, Ronald Darby and Jalyn Armour-Davis. Baltimore struggled mightily the remaining time Humphrey was once sidelined. When Humphrey neglected the remaining 5 video games in 2021, the Ravens allowed an NFL-worst 294.6 yards passing consistent with recreation and 12 landing passes (moment worst within the league). — Hensley

Stat to grasp: The Ravens’ receiving corps blended for 1,517 yards remaining season, fewest within the NFL and the fewest blended yards via a large receiver staff in one season since … the Ravens in 2019. Baltimore made an effort to handle that downside via including first-rounder Flora and a three-time Professional Bowler in Beckham this offseason.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Rashod Bateman. The oft-injured Bateman has performed a complete of nineteen video games via his first two seasons, and Baltimore upgraded its perimeter objectives with Beckham and Flora. If wholesome, on the other hand, Bateman nonetheless suits as an intermediate goal — with catch-and-run talent — in a brand new Ravens gadget that may create more room within the go recreation. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer ‘do draft’ checklist (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Ronnie Stanley will likely be named a first-team All-Professional take on. When the oft-injured Stanley is at the area, the efficiency has been there. Stanley ranked 9th in run block win charge remaining yr and would have ranked fourth in go block win charge had he certified. Now all he has to do is keep wholesome, and he is a right away contender. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC East: 21%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 47%
Projected wins: 9.2
Power of agenda: 6th toughest

What do the Jets do the most productive?

Frustrate opposing quarterbacks. With a 10-man defensive-line rotation and lockdown corners in Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed, the Jets rush the passer in waves and squeeze quarterbacks into throwing innocuous passes over the center. The Jets allowed a league-low 15 landing passes remaining season and solely 5.5 yards consistent with dropback, moment solely to the Eagles. You’ll be able to’t live to tell the tale in a passing league with no robust go protection, and the Jets have one. — Wealthy Cimini

What’s the Jets’ greatest weak point?

Offensive tackles. The Jets have sturdiness issues at each take on spots. Left take on Duane Brown had no coaching camp after convalescing from rotator-cuff surgical operation, and he simply became 38. Projected proper take on Mekhi Becton, enjoying on a twice-repaired proper knee, hasn’t performed an entire recreation since 2020. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers wishes coverage. Over the last 3 years, he has the second-highest Overall QBR on performs when the protection does not get a pass-rush win, however that drops to twenty eighth when the protection has a minimum of one pass-rush win on a play. — Cimini

Stat to grasp: Rodgers has thrown for 4,000 yards in 10 seasons of his profession — that is tied with Matt Ryan for the 5th maximum all-time. The Jets have had one season with a 4,000-yard passer of their historical past — 1967 via Joe Namath, the primary participant to go for 4,000 yards in a season in NFL historical past.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Allen Lazard. Lazard averaged 11.7 PPR issues consistent with recreation remaining season with Rodgers in Inexperienced Bay, and it is a seamless transition to the Jets, the place former Packers coordinator Nathaniel Hackett is now working the offense. Lazard has the upside of a WR3 in deeper leagues. — Bowen

Extra: NFL Country solutions questions on your myth draft board

Daring prediction for 2023: Bryce Huff will in any case get extra enjoying time and choose up a minimum of 8 sacks. The backup edge rusher has had fantastic numbers when at the area, with a 30% go rush win charge and 15% stress charge. According to NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, the ones percentages would have ranked first and fourth, respectively, had he performed sufficient snaps to qualify. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC East: 33%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 68%
Projected wins: 9.5
Power of agenda: eleventh toughest

What the Cowboys do the most productive?

Rattle the quarterback and take the ball away. Those two issues cross hand in hand. With Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence, Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler Jr. and Sam Williams, the Cowboys are deep with stress gamers. Remaining yr, the Cowboys completed tied for 1/3 in sacks with 54 and led the league in takeaways with 33. They are going to glance to be the primary crew for the reason that 1972-74 Pittsburgh Steelers to guide the league in takeaways for 3 directly years. The addition of Stephon Gilmore, a former Defensive Participant of the Yr, to enrich Trevon Diggs, who has 17 interceptions in 3 years, makes the Cowboys much more bold within the secondary. — Todd Archer

What’s the Cowboys’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line intensity. And this is not a Cowboys-only deal. It is leaguewide. Past their 5 starters, they don’t have skilled intensity. Left take on Tyron Smith has performed in 17 of a conceivable 50 regular-season video games with Mike McCarthy as trainer. Proper take on Terence Steele is getting back from a big knee damage. If the Cowboys lose a number of in their starters — and historical past says they are going to for no less than a couple of video games — then they are going to be examined and most likely pressured to remodel their offensive plan. — Archer

Stat to grasp: Receiver Brandin Chefs provides Dallas a deep risk and a participant who can generate separation. Remaining season, the Cowboys had 4 receptions on passes thrown 30-plus yards downfield, the same quantity as Chefs had on his personal in 13 video games.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Deuce Vaughn. Vaughn flashed all through the preseason, the usage of his short-area velocity and imaginative and prescient to seek out sunlight as a runner — there is some juice to his recreation. Now, it is at the rookie to fasten down the No. 2 function at the back of starter Tony Pollard in Dallas, developing myth doable as an insurance coverage play. — Bowen

Extra: Box’s myth favorites for the 2023 NFL season (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Parsons will damage the single-season sack report. Certain, he is by no means had greater than 13.5 sacks in a season. However he is additionally by no means no longer led the league in go rush win charge. Along with his remarkable ability and excellent nook play at the back of him, I believe this may well be the yr for Parsons’ sack quantity to blow up. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC North: 43%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 65%
Projected wins: 9.3
Power of agenda: eleventh absolute best

What do the Lions do the most productive?

Rating. At the back of a powerful offensive line, which is returning Professional Bowlers Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow, the Lions averaged the fifth-most issues scored (25.7) in 2022. They have got added working backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Bernard Law Montgomery and rookie tight finish Sam LaPorta, whilst returning large receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and quarterback Jared Goff, who need to choose up the place they left off after successful 8 in their ultimate 10 video games remaining yr. — Eric Woodyard

What’s the Lions’ greatest weak point?

Rush protection. As a complete, all the Lions protection struggled remaining season, however in particular in opposition to the run, the place combatants averaged 5.2 yards consistent with raise, which tied for the second one maximum within the league. The inner line of defense nonetheless wishes paintings, however they are hoping Alim McNeill and Isaiah Buggs along side Aidan Hutchinson and John Cominsky will assist them get off to a powerful get started. — Woodyard

Stat to grasp: A subject for the Lions remaining season was once their protection, which had the second-worst potency (39.59) within the NFL, forward of solely the Bears, who had the worst report within the NFL. The go protection was once in particular unhealthy as Detroit ranked remaining within the NFL in QBR allowed (58.1). Because of this, the Lions made over their secondary within the offseason, signing 3 new starters in Cameron Sutton, Emmanuel Moseley and C.J. Gardner-Johnson.

Delusion sleeper candidate: TE Sam LaPorta. I might take a late-round shot on LaPorta in deeper leagues. The rookie will get started the season because the No. 1 tight lead to Detroit’s play-action-heavy go recreation. He can stretch the seams, flex exterior and rumble after the catch. He is a rugged mover with 4.59 velocity. — Bowen

Extra: Mike Clay’s 2023 NFL Making a bet Props Playbook (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Jameson Williams will end the season as a top-20 myth large receiver in issues consistent with recreation performed after he returns from his six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s playing coverage. Had it no longer been for his torn ACL in his left knee that he suffered at Alabama, Williams most certainly would had been drafted upper than twelfth total remaining yr. With that damage within the rearview reflect, I am having a bet on a participant value that form of draft capital. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC South: 54%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 62%
Projected wins: 9.3
Power of agenda: 8th absolute best

What do the Jaguars do the most productive?

Rating issues. The Jaguars, led via quarterback Trevor Lawrence, have been tenth in issues scored remaining season. And it is Yr 2 in trainer Doug Pederson’s gadget, so there can be a bounce in manufacturing — like what came about together with his Philadelphia offense in 2017. The crew added receiver Calvin Ridley, who had 1,374 yards receiving in his remaining complete season (2020), and two novices who may have giant roles: working again Tank Bigsby and tight finish Brenton Peculiar. — Mike DiRocco

What’s the Jaguars’ greatest weak point?

Go rush. The Jaguars had 35 sacks remaining season (ranked twenty fifth), misplaced a key contributor (Arden Key), did not draft a pass-rusher till the 5th around and have not signed an to be had veteran. They are depending on former No. 1 choose Travon Walker to make an important bounce (he had 3.5 sacks as a rookie) and on linebacker Josh Allen to supply greater than he did remaining season. Allen’s 64 quarterback pressures ranked fourth within the NFL, however he had solely seven sacks. — DiRocco

Stat to grasp: The Jaguars want Lawrence to start out the season like he ended remaining season. In the second one half of of 2022, Lawrence’s QBR jumped from 44.3 to 63.9, his final touch proportion rose from 62.5% to 69.7%, and his touchdown-to-interception ratio went from 10-6 to 15-2.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Tank Bigsby. An a No. 2 possibility at the back of starter Travis Etienne Jr., the rookie can play downhill and to find sunlight in zone run schemes. Bigsby does not convey high-level receiving characteristics to the professionals, however he would carry to the RB2 ranks if Etienne have been to leave out time. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion Soccer Draft Information

Daring prediction for 2023: The Jaguars will end remaining in go block win charge, and the offensive line will sink any possibilities of them being a real Tremendous Bowl contender. Lawrence may have a low sack charge as a result of he is excellent at warding off sacks, however the line will overwhelm the crew’s passing potency. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC North: 17%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 44%
Projected wins: 9.1
Power of agenda: 18th toughest

What do the Browns do the most productive?

Rush the passer. All-Professional Myles Garrett hasn’t ever had a teammate succeed in double-digit sacks. That might alternate with the arriving of Za’Darius Smith, who has completed with 10-plus sacks in 3 of the previous 4 seasons and seems to be over the knee damage that plagued him remaining yr. Garrett was once essentially the most double-teamed edge rusher (31.1%) within the league remaining yr. If that continues, Smith may have quite a few favorable alternatives to get to the quarterback. — Jake Trotter

What’s the Browns’ greatest weak point?

Particular groups. The Browns have attempted to handle their particular groups woes. In 2022, they drafted kicker Cade York within the fourth around and signed Professional Bowl returner Jakeem Grant Sr. They even switched particular groups coaches. However York’s struggles triggered the Browns to reduce him remaining week and industry for kicker Dustin Hopkins. Grant suffered a season-ending damage all through the preseason for a moment directly yr. Because of this, particular groups proceed to be a big query mark. — Trotter

Stat to grasp: The Browns have completed 15 consecutive seasons with a detrimental level differential, a streak that dates again to 2008. This is tied for the longest streak of its sort in NFL historical past (with the Buccaneers, 1982-1996). Can Garrett’s protection and Deshaun Watson‘s offense snap the streak in 2023?

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Elijah Moore. Moore’s versatility as a movement/motion participant within the Browns’ offense must generate alternatives on manufactured touches. Plus, he can function out of the slot for Watson. With an expected bump in total quantity, Moore is value a late-round choose in deeper leagues. — Bowen

Extra: Adam Schefter’s myth soccer cheat sheet (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Browns will win six or fewer video games or 11 or extra — no in-between. On account of Watson, that is the very best variance crew within the league. If he is the Watson of 2019, the Browns are Tremendous Bowl contenders. If he is the Watson of 2022, they will be a multitude. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC West: 14%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 33%
Projected wins: 8.4
Power of agenda: 8th toughest

What do the Broncos do the most productive?

Rush the passer. The Broncos want Randy Gregory to have a complete, productive season of labor — he hasn’t ever performed greater than 14 video games in any season — and for Frank Clark to muster a few of his postseason mojo into the steady season. Jonathon Cooper has been essentially the most constant of the rushers in camp and preseason video games, Nik Bonitto has proven he is able for a bounce in manufacturing, and so they be expecting Baron Browning again from knee surgical operation someday after Week 4. With Gregory main the way in which, the go rush is one to look at. — Jeff Legwold

What’s the Broncos’ greatest weak point?

Intensity. The Broncos dealing 5 first- or second-round selections — and 6 selections total — previously two years to industry for Russell Wilson and trainer Sean Payton has this crew skinny in quite a few spots. The reserves (the second one and 1/3 groups) have no longer held their very own within the preseason video games or joint practices with the Rams. If accidents to starters pile up, the Broncos may have an issue. — Legwold

Stat to grasp: Payton’s Saints groups averaged 27.6 issues consistent with recreation all through his 15 seasons as head trainer, the very best for any trainer within the Tremendous Bowl technology (min. 40 video games). This can be a welcome sight for a Broncos crew that completed remaining with 16.9 PPG in 2022.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Marvin Mims Jr. A burner with 4.3 velocity, Mims is an explosive-play goal who can stretch defenses and assault open area after the catch. Whilst his direction tree will wish to make bigger within the professionals, he has the characteristics to win schemed matchups within the new Denver go recreation below Payton. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer Final Draft Board (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Wilson will end within the peak 16 in QBR. This one scares me as it in reality may just cross the opposite direction, because it did in 2022. However even in 2021, when Wilson was once a long way from his height, he completed tenth, and I am banking on a motivated Wilson, now being coached via Payton, appearing that he nonetheless has one thing left within the tank. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC West: 27%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 54%
Projected wins: 8.7
Power of agenda: nineteenth toughest

What do the Seahawks do the most productive?

Quilt. This can be a projection primarily based extra on how robust the Seahawks’ secondary seems now than how that staff performed remaining season. It was once cast in 2022. Seattle’s protection completed with the third-lowest opponent Overall QBR (49) but additionally allowed 53 go performs of a minimum of 20 yards, tied for 8th maximum. It must be higher in 2023, particularly at cornerback. Seattle drafted Devon Witherspoon at No. 5 and may just see a bounce from Riq Woolen, who made the Professional Bowl as a rookie remaining yr in his 1/3 complete season on the place. — Brady Henderson

What’s the Seahawks’ greatest weak point?

Run protection. It is a minimum of the largest query mark, as a result of it is challenging to believe the Seahawks being as unhealthy in opposition to the run as they have been remaining yr, once they allowed the third-most dashing yards (2,554) of any crew and misplaced a minimum of 5 video games as a result of it. They overhauled their entrance seven, highlighted via their free-agent splurge on Dre’Mont Jones and a reunion with Bobby Wagner. They need to be higher in opposition to the run to have any probability of catching the 49ers within the NFC West. — Henderson

Stat to grasp: Quarterback Geno Smith was once a large explanation why for the Seahawks’ luck in 2022. Smith set the single-season Seahawks report for passing yards (4,282) and final touch proportion (69.8%). To assist out Smith, the Seahawks drafted receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba with one in all two first-round picks. Smith-Njigba joins Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf within the receivers room. There were solely 5 circumstances in NFL historical past of a crew having 3 gamers who recorded 1,000 receiving yards in one season — the remaining being the Cardinals in 2008.

Delusion sleeper candidate: TE Noah Fant. Fant, who averaged 7.7 PPR issues consistent with recreation in 2022, suits as a deeper-league TE2 with the bodily profile to supply at the bootleg/play-action ideas of the Seahawks’ offense. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer mock draft: 12-team, PPR

Daring prediction for 2023: Abraham Lucas will end as a top-10 take on in go block win charge. He ranked seventeenth in 2022 — awfully spectacular as a rookie — and raising to a top-10 take on in Yr 2 could be an out of this world go back on a third-round choose. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC North: 26%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 49%
Projected wins: 8.5
Power of agenda: 14th toughest

What do the Vikings do the most productive?

Getting the ball to Justin Jefferson. Even with opposing defenses keying on Jefferson, the Vikings understand how to mass-target him in significant and productive tactics. His NFL-high 181 objectives remaining season incorporated 35 tight-window objectives (NFL Subsequent Gen Stats). Trainer Kevin O’Connell and quarterback Kirk Cousins know Jefferson is a great guess to run their complete offense via. Remaining season, Jefferson rewarded them with a receptions above anticipated charge of 14.8%, via a long way the most productive within the NFL. — Kevin Seifert

What’s the Vikings’ greatest weak point?

Confirmed go rush. The Vikings have just one participant on their roster who has accomplished a double-digit-sack season: exterior linebacker Danielle Hunter. Outdoor linebacker Marcus Davenport has some one-on-one talent. However for essentially the most section, if they are going to put stress at the quarterbacks, the Vikings will want both the emergence of a in the past not noted pass-rusher or, much more likely, dynamic schemes from defensive coordinator Brian Flores. — Seifert

Stat to grasp: The Vikings’ offense will glance in particular other following the departures of working again Dalvin Cook dinner and receiver Adam Thielen. Minnesota ran 1,123 offensive performs remaining season and both Cook dinner or Thielen was once at the area for 1,059 of them (94%).

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Ok.J. Osborn. Osborn has quite a few pageant for objectives enjoying at the back of receivers Jefferson and Jordan Addison, plus tight finish T.J. Hockenson. On the other hand, Osborn may have alternatives to supply in three-WR units within the Vikings’ pass-heavy offense. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer draft scores

Daring prediction for 2023: Ty Chandler will take over because the Vikings’ peak working again and lead them in dashing yards via the tip of the season. Alexander Mattison has recorded detrimental rush yards over expectation in every of the previous two seasons (minus-42 in 2022, minus-72 in 2021), consistent with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC North: 11%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 34%
Projected wins: 8.5
Power of agenda: twelfth absolute best

What do the Steelers do the most productive?

Rush the passer. The Steelers have former Defensive Participant of the Yr T.J. Watt anchoring one aspect, and so they signed Alex Highsmith to an extension within the offseason following a career-best 14.5-sack season. And at the back of Watt and Highsmith, the Steelers have the most productive intensity they have got had in recent times. They signed Markus Golden in loose company and drafted Wisconsin linebacker Nick Herbig within the fourth around. At 6-2, 228 kilos, Herbig has been a pleasing wonder within the preseason with 3.5 sacks in 3 video games. — Brooke Pryor

What’s the Steelers’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line. It is challenging to completely gauge an offensive line sooner than the beginning of the steady season, and the beginning unit has carried out neatly in small in-game pattern sizes. Each the run blocking off and go coverage have seemed higher than they did even overdue remaining season — did you catch the peerlessly blocked 62-yard Jaylen Warren preseason landing? — however the greatest take a look at will come Week 1 in opposition to a 49ers protection that added former Steeler Hargrave to a entrance that already has reigning DPOY Nick Bosa — holdout however. — Pryor

Stat to grasp: May quarterback Kenny Pickett have a breakout sophomore season? It is conceivable, given the truth that he had the next final touch proportion (63%), Overall QBR (52) and yards consistent with strive reasonable (6.2) than Lawrence had in his rookie season. And Pickett may have a couple of proficient pass-catchers to assist. In 2022, Diontae Johnson earned the most productive rating at getting open within the NFL, whilst George Pickens was once tied for the highest rating at catching the soccer, consistent with ESPN Analytics receiving metrics.

Delusion sleeper candidate: QB Kenny Pickett. As a rookie, Pickett averaged 11.5 myth issues consistent with recreation, however he’s in place to make a second-year bounce. Pickett has the mobility so as to add dashing totals in your lineup, and the Steelers characteristic a flexible staff of pass-catchers who can create certain matchups. — Bowen

Extra: Matt Bowen’s favourite draft objectives (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Warren will end the season with extra touches than Najee Harris. Harris recorded minus-116 dashing yards over expectation remaining season, consistent with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats (Warren was once plus-8), and Warren was once tied for moment amongst working backs in receiver monitoring metrics’ total rating. In different phrases, Warren is the easier runner and pass-catcher. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC East: 6%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 19%
Projected wins: 7.5
Power of agenda: Toughest

What do the Patriots do the most productive?

Rush the passer. 4-time Professional Bowl exterior linebacker Matthew Judon has 28 sacks over the last two seasons. The Patriots have a knack for developing disruption for opposing quarterbacks with a scheme that manufactures stress depending on various twists and stunts led via Judon. — Mike Reiss

What’s the Patriots’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line. Beginning guards Cole Peculiar (left leg/knee) and Mike Onwenu (offseason ankle surgical operation) and swing offensive take on Calvin Anderson (non-football sickness) have only in the near past returned to apply after lacking maximum of coaching camp, and it is been a fight to piece in combination a peak line. When it does occur, will the ability point be enough? — Reiss

Stat to grasp: Mac Jones and the Patriots’ offense had a difficult time adjusting to lifestyles with out an professional offensive coordinator in 2022. The Patriots scored 31 offensive touchdowns, 17 fewer than they did in 2021. Their crimson zone potency additionally dipped considerably as they scored a landing on a league-worst 42% in their crimson zone drives (19 TDs in 45 journeys). With Invoice O’Brien as their offensive coordinator and quarterbacks trainer, Jones may glance extra like his rookie-year self in 2023.

Delusion sleeper candidate: TE Hunter Henry. The Patriots signed some other tight lead to Mike Gesicki, however Henry nonetheless has myth price as a TE2 in O’Brien’s offensive gadget. Plus, Jones is at his very best when throwing timing routes to the center of the sphere. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer gamers to steer clear of: The Do No longer Draft checklist (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Henry will produce a profession excessive in receiving yards. Henry completed fourth in open rating (68) amongst tight ends a yr in the past, and I am having a bet at the Patriots offense to kick it up a notch or 3 below the path of an offensive coordinator with enjoy, neatly, coordinating an offense. Henry’s career-high receiving yardage is solely 652, so that is without a doubt inside of succeed in. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC East: 11%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 36%
Projected wins: 7.9
Power of agenda: tenth toughest

What do the Giants do the most productive?

Rush the passer. “Power breaks pipes.” It is a pronouncing that defensive coordinator Wink Martindale lives via. The Giants harassed opposing quarterbacks on 30.5% of dropbacks remaining season, in keeping with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. That was once 8th very best within the NFL. With the hopeful emergence of Kayvon Thibodeaux in Yr 2 and a more fit season from Azeez Ojulari, that quantity must solely upward thrust. — Jordan Raanan

What’s the Giants’ greatest weak point?

Go blocking off. The inner of the offensive line and proper take on Evan Neal all include questions. Neal was once 58th out of 64 qualifying tackles remaining season with an 81.1% go block win charge. He must enhance tremendously. Mix that with uncertainty at guard and a rookie middle in John Michael Schmitz Jr. and so much will journey at the training body of workers’s talent to scheme round this deficiency. — Raanan

Stat to grasp: The Giants traded for tight finish Darren Waller to assist take their passing recreation to the following point, particularly given Daniel Jones‘ luck when throwing to tight ends. Remaining season, Jones ranked 5th within the NFL in Overall QBR (89.2) and final touch proportion (77.9) when concentrated on the location.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Isaiah Hodgins. The Giants have quite a few pageant of their large receiver room, however I might take an opportunity on Hodgins in line with his tape and numbers in 2022. Over the general 5 weeks of the season, Hodgins posted 4 video games with 14 or extra PPR issues — and he did that with Jones concentrated on him in any respect 3 ranges of the sphere. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer ‘do draft’ checklist (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Thibodeaux and Ojulari will each hit 10 sacks. Enjoying in Martindale’s blitz-heavy scheme, the sack alternatives must be there, and each gamers publish above reasonable go rush win charges at edge a season in the past. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC South: 41%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 58%
Projected wins: 8.9
Power of agenda: Absolute best

What do the Saints do the most productive?

Spreading the ball round. That wasn’t the case remaining yr when rookie Chris Olave had 72 receptions and 1,042 yards because of accidents in different places, however it is without a doubt been the components to luck previously. And that’s the reason what the Saints have proven in camp and plan on doing in 2023. The Saints would possibly not put the entirety at the shoulders of Olave or Michael Thomas with different doable pass-catchers like tight finish Juwan Johnson, working again Alvin Kamara and plenty of others anticipated to be turned around into the combo. — Katherine Terrell

What’s the Saints’ greatest weak point?

Forcing turnovers. For as excellent because the Saints’ protection has been all-around in recent times, it had a serious drop-off in its takeaway/turnover ratio remaining season. Its internet differential of minus-11 was once thirty first within the league in 2022, and that is one thing it has labored to enhance. The Saints hope that a number of new faces at the defensive training body of workers and getting a wholesome cornerback Marshon Lattimore again after he neglected half of of remaining season will swing issues again of their prefer. — Terrell

Stat to grasp: Derek Carr is the Saints’ new quarterback and may supply some steadiness on the place that has been absent since Drew Brees retired. Carr is one in all 5 quarterbacks to throw for no less than 3,500 yards in every of the previous 5 seasons, along side Tom Brady, Mahomes, Rodgers and Cousins.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Rashid Shaheed. Shaheed had double-digit PPR manufacturing in 5 of the 12 video games he performed remaining season. He’s a vertical goal who additionally has route-running chops to discover beneath — and he can scoot after the catch. — Bowen

Extra: NFL Country solutions questions on your myth draft board

Daring prediction for 2023: Olave will succeed in 1,500 receiving yards. Olave completed 7th within the receiver monitoring metrics’ total rating (77) as a rookie. That incorporated completing 8th in crucial class for long term manufacturing, which is open rating (82). With higher quarterback play, the field rating stats will apply. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC South: 33%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 51%
Projected wins: 8.5
Power of agenda: 2d absolute best

What do the Falcons do the most productive?

Run the ball. To be transparent — the Falcons must throw the ball greater than remaining season, however Atlanta returns a 1,000-yard rusher in second-year professional Tyler Allgeier (1,035 yards), drafted offensive possibility Bijan Robinson with the No. 8 total choose and nonetheless has Cordarrelle Patterson (4.8 yards consistent with raise remaining season). Regardless of who the Falcons put within the backfield remaining season, they have been a hit (4.9 yards consistent with raise as a crew, score fourth within the NFL). With the possibility of extra unpredictability in Atlanta’s offense, it might open up extra alternatives for larger dashing positive factors in 2023. — Michael Rothstein

What’s the Falcons’ greatest weak point?

Intensity at large receiver. That is difficult with Atlanta as a result of how it is going to use all of its ability place gamers as pass-catchers as a substitute of the traditional working again/large receiver/tight finish. Atlanta has a possible big name in Drake London, and Mack Hollins is coming off a profession yr in Las Vegas (695 yards). At the back of them, no receiver has 1,000 profession yards, and solely KhaDarel Hodge and Scott Miller have vital enjoy. It does not glance as unhealthy whilst you recall to mind Kyle Pitts, Jonnu Smith, Robinson and Patterson as pass-catchers, too, however the receiver place is skinny on enjoy. — Rothstein

Stat to grasp: A possible upside to quarterback Desmond Ridder‘s recreation is a loss of errors. In spite of dealing with sufficient pass-rush stress to supply 9 sacks in his first 4 video games, Ridder didn’t throw a unmarried interception in 115 passes. He has an opportunity to wreck the NFL report for many makes an attempt previous to his first profession interception (211, Kyler Murray).

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Tyler Allgeier. A main insurance coverage play at the back of Robinson in 10- and 12-team leagues, Allgeier additionally has deeper-league price given the heavy running-game method of the Falcons’ offense. In 2022, Allgeier averaged 10 PPR issues consistent with recreation. — Bowen

Extra: Box’s myth favorites for the 2023 NFL season (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: A.J. Terrell will regain his 2021 shape and be named both first- or second-team All-Professional. Terrell led exterior corners with the bottom yards consistent with protection snap allowed (0.6) and general EPA allowed (minus-29) in 2021, consistent with NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, however he ranked remaining within the latter class in 2022 (plus-28). In spite of his deficient 2022, his play two years in the past confirmed he can also be in reality elite. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC South: 23%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 31%
Projected wins: 7.9
Power of agenda: 7th absolute best

What do the Titans do the most productive?

Preventing the run. The protection makes it challenging for opposing groups to run the ball. Simply ask Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins. “They have been No. 1 in opposition to the run remaining yr for a explanation why,” Cousins mentioned after joint practices. Tennessee allowed a league-best 76.9 dashing yards consistent with recreation remaining yr. Defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons mentioned it is one thing they delight themselves on. The entrance 4 with Simmons and Teair Tart constantly penetrate the backfield, and the exterior linebackers set the threshold whilst within backers fill the gaps. Additionally they have sound tacklers at the backend. — Turron Davenport

What’s the Titans’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line. Heart Aaron Brewer is the one returning starter, and he is transferring from left guard. Left take on Andre Dillard joins the crew after 3 seasons in Philadelphia. Rookie Peter Skoronski is at left guard after most commonly enjoying left take on at Northwestern. The best aspect of the road is a larger query mark. Daniel Brunskill comes over after 19 begins at proper guard during the last two seasons with the 49ers. However 2022 starter Nicholas Petit-Frere‘s suspension for violating the league’s playing coverage created a void at proper take on. Chris Hubbard has an within observe to start out the season there. — Davenport

Stat to grasp: DeAndre Hopkins, in his first season with the Titans, has been one of the vital peak wideouts within the NFL since he entered the league in 2013. He has 853 profession receptions, the fourth maximum via any participant inside of his first 10 seasons in NFL historical past at the back of Marvin Harrison (927), Brandon Marshall (882) and Torry Holt (869). His former crew, the Cardinals, was once considerably more practical with Hopkins. Arizona scored 6.4 extra issues consistent with recreation (25.9 in comparison to 19.5) when he performed.

Delusion sleeper candidate: TE Chigoziem Okonkwo. Okonkwo has been a peak sleeper choose all offseason after averaging 14.1 yards consistent with catch — on 32 receptions — remaining season. He enters 2023 because the Titans’ No. 1 tight finish, with a ability set to create second-level matchups and to find open grass within the Titans’ schemed play-action ideas. — Bowen

Extra: Mike Clay’s 2023 NFL Making a bet Props Playbook (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Titans will lose a minimum of 12 video games. That is the yr all of it in any case breaks down. The offensive line is simply too unhealthy, Derrick Henry and Hopkins are too previous, and the offense ceases to serve as at a contending point. I have misplaced via having a bet in opposition to Mike Vrabel sooner than, however I am giving it some other shot. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC North: 17%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 37%
Projected wins: 7.9
Power of agenda: 6th absolute best

What do the Bears do the most productive?

Run the soccer. Justin Fields‘ explosive working talent helped him amass 1,143 dashing yards, the second-most ever via a quarterback, and helped the Bears publish the most productive dashing offense in 2022 (177.3 yards consistent with recreation). Chicago will nonetheless depend on Fields’ legs in sure scenarios — just like the low crimson zone — however the crew is aiming to take that burden off Fields with its flexible backfield. Khalil Herbert led all working backs with 5.7 yards consistent with raise in 2022, and he’s the lead again in Chicago’s committee method, which may also use D’Onta Foreman, Roschon Johnson and fullback Khari Blasingame. — Courtney Cronin

What’s the Bears’ greatest weak point?

Uncertainty alongside the O-line. The Bears had their projected beginning 5 able to head via the tip of the spring just for an damage to left guard Teven Jenkins to power a shuffle up entrance. All in their starters except left take on Braxton Jones have neglected time in coaching camp because of damage. The Bears are banking on higher go coverage to assist Fields and the passing offense take your next step, however those damage setbacks may just show destructive for reaching that feat. — Cronin

Stat to grasp: Remaining season, Chicago was once one in all two groups within the NFL that did not have a large receiver report a minimum of 500 receiving yards. Input new Bears receiver DJ Moore, who has tallied over 1,000 yards in 3 of his 5 seasons within the NFL.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Roschon Johnson. The Bears’ working again room is crowded, however Johnson has the tough north/south working characteristics to emerge this season as an early-down again who has pass-catching talent out of the backfield. In his ultimate season at Texas, Johnson averaged 3.96 yards consistent with raise after first touch. He is a late-draft upload as a bench stash. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion Soccer Draft Information

Daring prediction for 2023: Fields will publish a double-digit sack charge once more. Remaining yr, Fields was once at 12.5% and was once the one quarterback in double digits (league reasonable was once 6.3%). Sacks are in large part a quarterback stat, so although the Bears may really feel like they have got stepped forward their offensive line, Fields should enhance to mend that quantity. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC North: 14%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 33%
Projected wins: 7.7
Power of agenda: 9th absolute best

What do the Packers do the most productive?

Blocking off. The Packers ranked 5th in go block win charge (66.8%) and 8th in run block win charge (72.4%) remaining season and go back all in their key offensive linemen from remaining season. That are meant to make lifestyles a bit of more straightforward for quarterback Jordan Love, who loved stellar go coverage all through coaching camp and the preseason. — Rob Demovsky

What’s the Packers’ greatest weak point?

Revel in. This will likely be one of the vital youngest — if no longer the youngest — staff of receivers and tight leads to the league. Their maximum skilled receivers are second-year professionals Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson. Their No. 3 receiver shall be rookie Jayden Reed. They have got just one tight finish with NFL enjoy (Josiah Deguara), and he is extra of a fullback/H-back. Their different two tight ends are novices (Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft). — Demovsky

Stat to grasp: What’s the doable ceiling for Love in 2023 after he performed sparingly in his first 3 profession seasons? Since 1950, essentially the most landing passes via a quarterback in his fourth profession season after beginning one or fewer video games of their first 3 seasons is 28, completed via Aaron Rodgers.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Jayden Reed. There’s a trail for Reed to look constant quantity as a slot goal for Love. Reed can observe the ball vertically, and he must even be deployed as a middle-of-the-field goal on outlined play-action throws in trainer Matt LaFleur’s offense the place he can use his catch-and-run talent. — Bowen

Extra: Adam Schefter’s myth soccer cheat sheet (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Packers will win the NFC North. Is it so far-fetched? Love is supported via a powerful offensive line and has a minimum of one excellent receiver in Watson. This crew has actual ability defensively, too. And LaFleur were given greater than anticipated out of the Packers’ roster previous to remaining season. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC West: 4%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 11%
Projected wins: 6.8
Power of agenda: Fourth toughest

What do the Raiders do the most productive?

Run the ball. Josh Jacobs, who remaining season led the NFL in dashing yards (1,653), yards from scrimmage (2,053) and touches (393), didn’t report back to the Raiders because of a freelance dispute till coaching camp and the exhibition season was once over. So how advantageous is that line between leisure and rust? As Jacobs put it after his first apply since January, “Bodily, I ain’t neglected a step.” That may portend excellent issues for the Raiders at the flooring. Once more. — Paul Gutierrez

What’s the Raiders’ greatest weak point?

Takeaways. The Raiders have been remaining within the league with 13 takeaways remaining season, together with an NFL-low six interceptions. So forcing turnovers has been some degree of emphasis all over camp and the exhibition season. Working example — protection Isaiah Pola-Mao‘s 50-yard pick-six in opposition to the Rams. “I all the time inform my D-linemen, ‘Move devour. It is our process to scrub you up,'” linebacker Robert Spillane mentioned. “I am getting safeties at the back of me, ‘Move fly round, we will make you proper.’ So, it is that 3 ranges of consider all over a protection that in reality has been coming in combination.” — Gutierrez

Stat to grasp: Protection was once an issue in Las Vegas remaining season. The Raiders’ protection allowed a Overall QBR of 55 (which ranked thirty first within the NFL) and their 27 sacks have been thirtieth within the league. Maxx Crosby — who accounted for just about half of of the Raiders’ sacks remaining season (46%) — wanted some assist, so the Raiders drafted defensive finish Tyree Wilson No. 7 total. Wilson averaged 4.3 QB pressures consistent with recreation remaining season, essentially the most within the FBS.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Zamir White. Jacobs signed his franchise tag, however White remains to be a wise sleeper play within the Raiders’ backfield. Along with his downhill energy and lateral quicks, White may just vault right into a quantity function if Jacobs misses some recreation motion. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer Final Draft Board (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Raiders will end with a top-10 scoring offense. Jimmy Garoppolo is enjoying at the back of a cast offensive line and has an ideal receiving mixture in Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers. Plus, the Raiders’ protection will likely be so unhealthy, which can lead to quite a few shootouts. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC East: 5%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 18%
Projected wins: 6.7
Power of agenda: 9th toughest

What do the Commanders do the most productive?

Play protection. Remaining season, Washington ranked 1/3 in yards allowed consistent with recreation (304.6) and had the NFL’s very best third-down protection with a conversion proportion of 31.9%. Tackles Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen shape one of the vital very best internal duos within the league. Plus, finish Chase Younger seemed fast off the ball this summer time sooner than a stinger damage in his neck restricted him. They reinforced the secondary with No. 16 total choose, nook Emmanuel Forbes. And the secondary’s intensity and flexibility will let them cover coverages higher. — John Keim

What’s the Commanders’ greatest weak point?

Offensive line. Washington made over its line after remaining season when it had one of the vital worst teams within the NFL. The Commanders have new starters at 4 line positions, so they continue to be a piece in development in addition to a query mark. They lack high-end ability (no first-rounders at the roster and one picked in the second one) and skilled intensity. The run blocking off has been cast this summer time, and an emphasis on fast passes and RPOs must assist the security. If this staff has a excellent yr, so will the Commanders. — Keim

Stat to grasp: Offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, in his first season with the Commanders, has the cruel activity of turning round an offense that has struggled to seek out consistency below trainer Ron Rivera. During the last 3 seasons, the Commanders rank twenty seventh in issues consistent with recreation (19.8), twenty ninth yards consistent with play (5.0) and feature the league’s third-lowest crew Overall QBR (39).

Delusion sleeper candidate: QB Sam Howell. In Washington, Howell has the receiving ability to supply as a thrower, and his second-reaction talent will create scramble alternatives to log dashing yards on your lineup. He has been a goal for me this summer time in superflex codecs. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer mock draft: 12-team, PPR

Daring prediction for 2023: Jacoby Brissett will take over as beginning quarterback via Week 7. I am anxious about Howell’s excessive sack charges and sack-to-pressure charges in school and the way that pairs with a vulnerable Commanders internal offensive line. — Walder

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC South: 17%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 30%
Projected wins: 7.5
Power of agenda: Fourth absolute best

What do the Panthers do the most productive?

Power the quarterback. The prospective is there with the transfer from a 4-3 scheme to a 3-4, however the Panthers have not performed their peak two pass-rushers (Brian Burns and Justin Houston) in a preseason recreation, so there is a large number of unknown. On the other hand, with Burns coming off a career-best 12.5 sacks, Houston off a 9.5-sack season and each being in a protection that flourishes on stress and sacks, this must be a power. — David Newton

What’s the Panthers’ greatest weak point?

Intensity at large receiver. Adam Thielen is cast and DJ Chark Jr. can also be when he is not injured (hamstring). After that, the Panthers are depending on rookie Jonathan Mingo, still-trying-to-prove-himself Terrace Marshall Jr. (who’s coping with a again damage) and Laviska Shenault Jr., who is also higher at working again than receiver. That isn’t a in particular stellar staff for rookie quarterback Bryce Younger to rely on. — Newton

Stat to grasp: Younger will glance to seriously enhance Carolina’s quarterback play on 1/3 down, which has been the worst within the league relating to QBR (21) during the last two seasons. Younger ranked moment within the FBS in yards consistent with strive (10.4), first downs (107) and passing touchdowns (26) remaining season.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR DJ Chark Jr. In 11 video games performed with the Lions remaining season, Chark posted 4 weeks of 14 or extra PPR issues. In Carolina, he’s going to be a vertical stretch goal who will also be schemed open on deep crossers in trainer Frank Reich’s offense. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer draft scores

Daring prediction for 2023: Younger will lead the league in interceptions thrown. He is a rookie quarterback with a ton of room for error, no possibility of shedding the beginning process and is enjoying with a particularly shaky receiver staff. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC West: 7%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 19%
Projected wins: 6.8
Power of agenda: fifteenth toughest

What do the Rams do the most productive?

Throw the ball. The Rams have completed within the peak 5 in passing yards consistent with recreation in 3 of the previous 5 seasons, and it took the slow-motion disillusion of the Sean McVay-Jared Goff partnership in 2020 and a pile of accidents and workforce gaffes remaining yr for it to not occur in the ones different two circumstances. Matthew Stafford averaged 262.7 yards passing throughout the first six video games of 2022, in spite of being below siege taking 22 sacks sooner than sooner or later breaking down at the back of a turnstile of an offensive line. Give him and McVay a modicum of steadiness up entrance and Cooper Kupp at receiver to focus on, and Los Angeles will to find tactics to air it out. — Dan Greenspan

What’s the Rams’ greatest weak point?

Go rush. With Aaron Donald, the Rams have one heck of a kick off point, however the remainder of the defensive entrance is wholly unproven. In spite of being restricted via accidents, Donald had 5 sacks remaining season. Defensive lineman-turned-outside linebacker Michael Hoecht had 4.5 sacks as a place starter, and that makes him essentially the most achieved pass-rusher no longer named Donald at the roster. Byron Younger seems like he could make his mark off the threshold as a rookie, and Los Angeles may just all the time signal a veteran, however past Donald, there’s no walk in the park this protection gets to the quarterback. — Greenspan

Stat to grasp: Cam Akers is taking a look to take a large soar for this upcoming season. Akers ended the 2022 season with 3 directly 100-yard dashing video games. Simplest 4 Rams gamers recorded 4 directly 100-yard dashing video games over the last 30 seasons.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Van Jefferson. With Kupp struggling a setback on a hamstring damage, the door is open for Jefferson to look a bump in early-season quantity. He is a late-round upload who suits as an intermediate goal within the Rams schemed passing assault. — Bowen

Extra: Matt Bowen’s favourite draft objectives (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Rams will industry Donald sooner than the closing date. Barring sudden first-half luck, it simply makes an excessive amount of sense for the Rams to money in on Donald — who remains to be nice however is 32 years previous — quite than working out the clock on his profession. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC South: 12%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 17%
Projected wins: 7.1
Power of agenda: 3rd absolute best

What do the Colts do the most productive?

Protect in opposition to the run. The Colts, led via the internal line of defense duo of DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, are constantly cast in opposition to the run. The protection completed 5th in yards consistent with raise allowed remaining season (4.1) and was once 7th in rush protection anticipated issues added (33.11). The presence of linebacker Zaire Franklin, the NFL’s fourth-leading tackler with 166 tackles remaining season, performs a large function on this luck, too. — Stephen Holder

What’s the Colts’ greatest weak point?

Intensity. First- and second-year gamers dominate the Colts’ secondary, the offensive line is skinny, and unproven gamers are occupying key roles at large receiver. And that’s the reason with out the considered necessary accidents cropping up simply but. The Colts had a rather wholesome coaching camp and preseason, however the nature of the NFL is such that accidents are inevitable. Will the Colts have sufficient to climate the ones setbacks? — Holder

Stat to grasp: Rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson has the features to increase performs and take advantage of out of a nasty scenario. Richardson was once sacked on 9.4% of his pressures remaining season, the seventh-lowest charge of all Energy 5 quarterbacks. Plus, his 22 damaged tackles was once tied with KJ Jefferson for essentially the most of any FBS QB.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Alec Pierce. Richardson is an glaring selection right here, however let’s cross with Pierce (in non-PPR codecs) as a third-level goal for the rookie quarterback. Pierce averaged 14.7 yards consistent with catch in 2022 whilst including 14 explosive-play receptions. That matches with Richardson’s high-level arm ability. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer gamers to steer clear of: The Do No longer Draft checklist (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: After completing remaining in go block win charge in 2022, the Colts will rebound to a top-half end. If Quenton Nelson and Braden Smith can rebound to their 2021 shape, that may make a large distinction after each upset in 2022. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win AFC South: 11%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 15%
Projected wins: 6.8
Power of agenda: 5th absolute best

What do the Texans do the most productive?

Prohibit passing offenses. On paper, their secondary may well be exceptional if the beginning staff of cornerbacks, Derek Stingley Jr., Steven Nelson and Tavierre Thomas, pair neatly with the protection duo of Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward in head trainer DeMeco Ryans’ scheme. Ryans’ gadget suits their play taste higher than below former trainer Lovie Smith, or even in that gadget remaining season, they’d extra interceptions (16) than allowed passing touchdowns (15, the league low). — DJ Bien-Aime

What’s the Texans’ greatest weak point?

Extensive receiver. The receiver room will have to show it will possibly carry rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. Rookie Tank Dell has proven doable together with his quickness, Nico Collins flashes dynamic vertical talent and Robert Woods can be a veteran protection blanket for Stroud. On the other hand, consistency was once a subject around the staff all through camp. The ability is there, however the staff struggled to constantly get open down the sphere to create explosive performs. — Bien-Aime

Stat to grasp: When no longer below stress remaining season at Ohio State, Stroud had the second-highest QBR and the sixth-highest TD-INT ratio. His QBR when no longer harassed was once considerably upper (91.7) than when harassed (37.1). And even though Houston did upload guard Shaq Mason, this offensive line ranked seventeenth in go block win charge and twenty eighth in run block win charge remaining season.

Delusion sleeper candidate: WR Nico Collins. A late-round possibility in 10-12 crew leagues, Collins must see a spice up in goal quantity and receiving manufacturing with rookie quarterback Stroud now the Texans’ beginning quarterback. He is an extended (6-foot-4) receiver with matchup talent. — Bowen

Extra: Delusion soccer ‘do draft’ checklist (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: Will Anderson Jr. will rank within the peak 10 in go rush win charge at edge. He was once an elite prospect who blew away my draft projections for potentialities, and the Texans gave up a ton to get him. Be expecting him to supply immediately. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC South: 8%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 16%
Projected wins: 6.4
Power of agenda: tenth absolute best

What do the Buccaneers do the most productive?

Catch the soccer. Even with receiver Russell Gage now out for the season, the Bucs would possibly nonetheless have probably the most proficient receiving corps within the NFL with Professional Bowlers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, plus fast rookie Trey Palmer and 5-foot-8 Deven Thompkins, who has the catch radius of anyone a couple of foot taller. Quarterback Baker Mayfield may have choices on this offense. — Jenna Laine

What’s the Buccaneers’ greatest weak point?

Working the ball. The Buccaneers had 1,308 general dashing yards with 3.4 yards consistent with raise remaining season — each the worst within the NFL. First-year offensive coordinator Dave Canales has introduced in a large and midzone dashing scheme that would assist enhance this, however Tampa Bay goes to be fielding some other remade offensive line so be expecting there to be rising pains. — Laine

Stat to grasp: Mayfield, who is on his fourth crew, would be the Week 1 starter. Since Mayfield’s debut in 2018, he has a 42% final touch proportion on throws 20-plus yards downfield, which ranks 9th out of 33 quarterbacks with 100 such makes an attempt in that span. On throws lower than 20 yards downfield, Mayfield’s 64% final touch proportion ranks thirty ninth of 42 qualifiers.

Delusion sleeper candidate: RB Sean Tucker. In a Bucs offense that may characteristic heavy run-game components and play-action ideas, you must grasp Tucker as late-round flier at the back of starter Rachaad White. The rookie can care for early-down quantity and convey between the tackles. — Bowen

Extra: NFL Country solutions questions on your myth draft board

Daring prediction for 2023: 3 quarterbacks (Mayfield, Kyle Trask and John Wolford) will get started for the Bucs this season. It is challenging to place confidence in any of them placing onto the process. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart

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ESPN FPI’s possibilities to win NFC West: 2%
Probabilities to make the playoffs: 4%
Projected wins: 5.1
Power of agenda: thirteenth toughest

What do the Cardinals do the most productive?

Get to the quarterback. The Cardinals had 14 quarterback pressures of their first two preseason video games, together with two sacks of Denver quarterback Russell Wilson, of their new scheme below new defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. Arizona has proven, albeit all through this preseason, that they are able to blitz and feature the workforce to stress the quarterback. — Josh Weinfuss

What’s the Cardinals’ greatest weak point?

Protecting the go recreation. The cornerback scenario remains to be in limbo, with more youthful corners like Marco Wilson, Christian Matthew and Kei’Trel Clark all anticipated to have vital roles this season. And with the new industry of protection Isaiah Simmons, how Arizona will care for the nickel remains to be unknown. There will be some rising pains early on, however how Arizona can save you the massive performs will dictate how the secondary will fare. — Weinfuss

Stat to grasp: Kyler Murray is out a minimum of via Week 4, and the Cardinals launched backup Colt McCoy, so Arizona will get started Joshua Dobbs or rookie Clayton Song in Week 1. Song was once decided on 139th on this yr’s NFL draft. If he will get the beginning, he will be the lowest-drafted quarterback to start out a season opener as a rookie since Randy Hedberg in 1977.

Delusion sleeper candidate: TE Trey McBride. With Zach Ertz but to go back from a knee damage suffered remaining season, McBride is a deeper-league goal to observe. The second one-year professional stuck 20 of 29 objectives for 291 yards over the general 5 weeks of 2022, and he has the receiving characteristics to paintings more than one ranges of the sphere. — Bowen

Extra: Box’s myth favorites for the 2023 NFL season (ESPN+)

Daring prediction for 2023: The Cardinals will win in Week 1 in opposition to the Commanders … then lose each recreation for the remainder of the season. Having a look at this Murray-less roster, this Cardinals crew is shaping as much as be traditionally unhealthy. As soon as Murray is wholesome, it is going to be too overdue, and the crew would possibly come to a decision to easily keep his well being. — Walder

Complete agenda | Roster | Intensity chart