The most wonderful time of the year is almost here… the NFL season. Training camps are ongoing as the preseason approaches. The Hall of Fame game is right around the corner, taking place on Thursday, August 4.
Anticipation is in full swing with the season kicking off in about one month. Rosters are rounding into form with minor moves remaining. With that said, it’s finally time to rank the NFL’s best and worst ahead of the 2022 season.
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Chicago Bears
Chicago Bears went all in to acquire Justin Fields in the 2021 draft. Fields had an up-and-down rookie season with some flashes of brilliant potential. The Bears have done no favors for their young QB. Entering 2022, Chicago could have the NFL’s worst offensive line and receivers. Plus, the defense got worse. It’s looking like a rough year for Bears fans.
- +12500 Super Bowl odds
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Seattle Seahawks
After trading Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks officially entered rebuild mode. Drew Lock or Geno Smith starting at QB is a bad situation. Running back Chris Carson retired, leaving the backfield to Rashaad Penny and rookie Kenneth Walker III. At least the Seahawks have good receivers with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. However, everything else looks grim, including the defense that ranked 28th in yards allowed per game (379.1).
- +12500 Super Bowl odds
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Houston Texans
Houston’s full rebuild hinged on trading Deshaun Watson. That finally happened, giving the Texans a load of draft picks. Rookies Derek Stingley and Jalen Pitre are good additions to the secondary, but safety Justin Reid joined Kansas City in free agency. Davis Mills’ play will be the biggest key to watch; he could secure his future as starting QB.
- +25000 Super Bowl odds
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Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons enter a new era after trading Matt Ryan. Marcus Mariota has been named the starter, which should be temporary until Atlanta drafts a potential franchise QB. Kyle Pitts is expected to have a huge year and rookie Drake London is an exciting prospect. However, the defense is in a dire situation with dreadful pass-rushing.
- +15000 Super Bowl odds
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Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville hopes to see young players develop in 2022. Trevor Lawrence is capable of a breakout season and RB Travis Etienne will make his debut after missing his rookie season due to injury. In addition, rookies Travon Walker and Devin Lloyd could greatly impact the defense. The Jaguars spent big money in free agency, acquiring Christian Kirk, Brandon Scherff and Foyesade Oluokun. All of which look like potential overpays. Jacksonville still has a long way to go.
- +15000 Super Bowl odds
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New York Giants
The Giants did not pick up Daniel Jones’ fifth-year option, meaning this is his last chance to prove he’s a franchise QB. The offensive line is progressing with Andrew Thomas and Evan Neal at tackle. Saquon Barkley has struggled with injuries and wide receiver Sterling Shepard will miss time after tearing his Achilles in Week 14 of last season. The defense anticipates Kayvon Thibodeaux’s debut and hopes to see growth in other young players, like safety Xavier McKinney.
- +12500 Super Bowl odds
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New York Jets
The New York Jets could finally make a jump. After adding WR Garrett Wilson and CB Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner in the draft, New York’s young core is shaping into form. Zach Wilson will attempt to make strides after posting a 28.2 QBR in his rookie year. The Jets’ impressive offensive line went unnoticed last year; it should improve with Mekhi Becton’s return. After ranking last in allowed yards per game, the defense needs a dramatic turnaround.
- +15000 Super Bowl odds
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Detroit Lions
While the Lions finished 3-13-1, it feels like they found their guy. Despite a talent deficit,
Head Coach Matt Campbell kept Detroit competitive. Campbell has become a popular candidate for Coach of the Year. Many expect a huge season from running back D’Andre Swift. Led by Taylor Decker, Frank Ragnow and Penei Sewell, the offensive line is in good shape. Plus, the No. 2 pick Aidan Hutchinson could be an immediate impact. The Lions’ rebuild is bearing fruit.
- +15000 Super Bowl odds
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Washington Commanders
In 2020, Washington ranked fifth in points allowed per game (21.2). The defensive line was one of the league’s most dominant. With poor secondary play and a declined pass rush, the 2021 defense fell to 25th in points allowed per game (25.5). The offense still lacks adequate QB play; Carson Wentz is not a long-term solution. The defense must carry the day.
- +8000 Super Bowl odds
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Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers need a dramatic improvement on offense. Last season, Carolina ranked 29th in points per game (17.9) and 30th in yards per game (298.9). Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield are in a battle for the starting spot. Christian McCaffrey — who has missed 23 games since 2020 — needs to become the offense’s workhorse once again. The defense should be solid with young stars leading the charge, but the offense has to score points.
- +12500 Super Bowl odds
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Minnesota Vikings
Kevin O’Connell, who was the Rams’ Offensive Coordinator from 2020-21, will try to turn around Minnesota in his first season as Head Coach. The Vikings have a lot of talent. Dalvin Cook, Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen are a scary offensive trio. Danielle Hunter is a punishing edge-rusher and other defenders, like Harrison Smith, are capable of elite play. The offensive line and secondary are two areas that must improve.
- +4000 Super Bowl odds
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Pittsburgh Steelers
Led by the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, T.J. Watt, the Steelers have one of the NFL’s most fearsome pass rushes. Pittsburgh will need improved linebacker and corner play to elevate the unit to one of the league’s best. Following Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement, Mitch Trubisky or Kenny Pickett will take over at QB. Running back Najee Harris will have a massive season if the offensive line improves. The Steelers’ success will come down to QB play and blocking.
- +6000 Super Bowl odds
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New England Patriots
The New England Patriots are depending on the growth of young players. New England made interesting offseason moves, including the trade of Pro Bowl guard Shaq Mason. Few moves were made in free agency and New England’s draft was mediocre. To appear in the postseason, Mac Jones will need to shine. The Patriots are not close to making deep playoff runs anytime soon.
- +4000 Super Bowl odds
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New Orleans Saints
New Orleans has a menacing defense. All-Pro caliber players are at every level, including Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, Marshon Lattimore and Tyrann Mathieu. The questions are with the offense. Jameis Winston comes off an ACL tear, Michael Thomas is finally returning from injury and Alvin Kamara faces a potential suspension. If the offense can produce, the Saints can earn a wildcard spot.
- +4000 Super Bowl odds
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Tennessee Titans
After earning the No. 1 seed in the AFC, Tennessee is in store for a down year. The Titans added Robert Woods and drafted Treylon Burks, but A.J. Brown was traded to Philly. Following QB Ryan Tannehill’s shaky season, the passing game could struggle. As usual, Derrick Henry will carry the offensive load. Tennessee will rely on defense, which allowed 20.7 points per game in 2021 (6th), and the run game.
- +3000 Super Bowl odds
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Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins made exciting additions throughout the offseason. Following Brian Flores’ questionable firing, offensive guru Mike McDaniel was hired as Head Coach. Then, Miami traded for superstar wideout Tyreek Hill and signed Pro Bowl tackle Terron Armstead. If Tua Tagovalioa plays well, the Dolphins will have an explosive offense headlined by an exciting WR duo: Hill and Jaylen Waddle. With a good secondary, the defense should be solid.
- +3000 Super Bowl odds
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Las Vegas Raiders
Las Vegas made a blockbuster move, trading for wideout Davante Adams. Derek Carr is reunited with his former college teammate. The Raiders pass rush also improved with the signing of Chandler Jones. Maxx Crosby and the three-time Pro Bowler will be a formidable duo. The offensive line is a big worry. Vegas improved, but a stacked AFC West will make a playoff appearance challenging.
- +3000 Super Bowl odds
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Arizona Cardinals
If Kyler Murray stays consistent, the Arizona Cardinals’ offense will be dangerous. They could start slow with DeAndre Hopkins missing six games due to a PED suspension. Marquise Brown was added via trade, but Kirk was lost to the Jags. In his second season, wide receiver Rondale Moore will be a big key. On defense, Jones left for Vegas. Excluding 2020, Jones has recorded double-digit sacks in each season since 2015. The Cardinals have enough to make the playoffs, but it depends on Murray’s play.
- +2800 Super Bowl odds
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Indianapolis Colts
Wentz was not the answer in Indianapolis. The Colts traded Wentz to Washington and acquired long-time Atlanta QB, Ryan. At 37 years old, Ryan is not the MVP level he once was. However, he’s an upgrade over Wentz. In addition, Indy has a good offensive line with a superstar tailback, Jonathan Taylor. Ryan can fall into a game manager role with the run game leading the way.
- +2500 Super Bowl odds
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Philadelphia Eagles
This is Jalen Hurts’ season to prove he is Philadelphia’s franchise QB. The Eagles have surrounded Hurts with everything needed. Philadelphia Eagles added a star wide receiver in Brown, the offensive line is one of the NFL’s best and Dallas Goedert is a great tight end. On defense, edge-rusher Haason Reddick and cornerback James Bradberry were signed. The Eagles are in prime position to win the NFC East.
- +3000 Super Bowl odds
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Dallas Cowboys
Dallas’ much-improved 2021 defense is nearly the same. Randy Gregory was lost in free agency, but Dante Fowler and second-rounder Sam Williams were added. On offense, the receiver situation is dire. Amari Cooper was traded, making CeeDee Lamb and Michael Gallup the leaders. Gallup will be out a few games after tearing his ACL late last season and newly-added James Washington will be out 6-10 weeks with a broken foot. Until Gallup’s return, Dak Prescott will throw to Lamb, rookie Jalen Tolbert and Noah Brown.
- +2000 Super Bowl odds
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Cleveland Browns
The decision was finally announced. Despite the egregious allegations, Deshaun Watson was suspended only six games. The NFL could still appeal the decision. For now, the Browns get a difference-maker in Week 7. Watson will be rusty after not playing since 2020. If Watson returns to an elite level, Cleveland legitimately has a roster capable of a Super Bowl run. The run game is great and the receivers are solid. Plus, the defense is good led by Myles Garrett.
- +2500 Super Bowl odds
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San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco 49ers transitions to Trey Lance at quarterback. The 49ers’ offense will be run heavy, utilizing Lance’s legs, running back Elijah Mitchell and Deebo Samuel. Throughout camp, reports have claimed Lance is struggling, but that’s the growing pains of a first-year starter. Lance is extremely talented and can unlock a new level for the San Fran offense. The defense is in good hands with Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.
- +1600 Super Bowl odds
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Baltimore Ravens
Following a year filled with injuries, Baltimore enters the season healthy and hungry. The Ravens had an excellent offseason, adding Marcus Williams along with first-rounders Tyler Linderbaum and Kyle Hamilton. Simply being healthy makes Baltimore a playoff team. In 2021, J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, Ronnie Stanley, Tyus Bowser, Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey sustained season-ending injuries at some point. With major contributors returning paired with an upgraded roster, Baltimore should be a playoff team.
- +2000 Super Bowl odds
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Denver Broncos
The Broncos made massive moves this offseason. Acquiring Wilson from Seattle was the lead move. Also, edge-rusher Gregory and defensive tackle D.J. Jones were signed. Denver was already amassing young talent with Javonte Williams, Jerry Jeudy and Patrick Surtain II. Wilson is a superstar QB with Super Bowl experience. This move immediately elevates the Broncos to playoff contenders.
- +1600 Super Bowl odds
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Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers will always be contenders with Aaron Rodgers — who is one of the best quarterbacks of all time. However, offseason losses moves Green Bay down the totem pole. Losing Adams, who is perhaps the league’s best receiver, was a big blow. The receiving group is Allen Lazard, rookie Christian Watson and Sammy Watkins. This is far from ideal, Rodgers will need to work his magic. Elsewhere, the defense could be one of the NFL’s best with Rashan Gary and Jaire Alexander as impact playmakers.
- +1200 Super Bowl odds
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Los Angeles Chargers
Los Angeles clearly has its QB of the future. The Chargers decided to go all in on Justin Herbert. Khalil Mack and J.C. Jackson were added on defense. Linebacker looks like the only weakness of the defense. Furthermore, the offensive line was upgraded with first-rounder Zion Johnson. Los Angeles will have one of the NFL’s best offenses paired with an improved defense.
- +1400 Super Bowl odds
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Kansas City Chiefs
After trading Hill to Miami, Kansas City’s offense could have a minor dropoff. Hill was replaced with JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore. With Patrick Mahomes and one of the NFL’s brightest offensive minds, Andy Reid, the offense will remain elite. On defense, Kansas City let Mathieu walk in free agency, replacing him with Reid. In addition, rookies George Karlaftis and Moore should have big impacts.
- +900 Super Bowl odds
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Cincinnati Bengals
Last season, Cincinnati Bengals made an improbable run to the Super Bowl. The Bengals have built a fantastic young core, they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. After Joe Burrow was sacked 70 times, upgrading the offensive line was the biggest priority. Center Ted Karras, guard Alex Cappa and tackle La’el Collins were signed in free agency. Now, the offensive line has a chance to be a top 10 unit.
- +2000 Super Bowl odds
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Los Angeles Rams
The defending Super Bowl champs remain one of the NFL’s best. Woods, Von Miller and Sebastian Joseph-Day were notable losses. Odell Beckham Jr. remains in free-agency limbo. However, Allen Robinson II was added as the No. 2 wideout and the eight-time Pro Bowler Bobby Wagner joined LA. With Andrew Whitworth retiring, the offensive line could be the only major flaw for the 2022 Rams. If Matthew Stafford replicates his postseason performance, Los Angeles will be a Super Bowl contender.
- +1100 Super Bowl odds
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers nearly experienced massive change after Tom Brady announced his retirement. However, 40 days later Brady said he was returning. Tampa Bay will be Super Bowl contenders once again. After signing Akiem Hicks and putting Joe Tryon-Shoyinka in a starting role, the defensive line was upgraded. In addition, Russell Gage and Julio Jones were added to the receiving group. Chris Godwin is recovering from an ACL and could miss some time and center Ryan Jensen sustained a potential season-ending knee injury during camp.
- +750 Super Bowl odds
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Buffalo Bills
On paper, the Buffalo Bills have the best roster in football. Josh Allen is a certified superstar and could make his case as the NFL’s best QB with another monster season. Rookie James Cook adds depth to the running back rotation. Edge-rusher Miller was a splash signing on defense. Cornerback Tre’Davious White is nearing his return following an ACL injury and rookie Kaiir Elam brings high potential at the No. 2 CB spot. Buffalo has the tools to finally win a Super Bowl.
- +650 Super Bowl odds
