Photo by The 2024 NFL season is just around the corner, and teams are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year. While some teams are looking strong, others are flying under the radar. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the underrated and overrated teams in the NFL.
Underrated Teams
The Atlanta Falcons are one team that could make a big impact this season. With quarterback Kirk Cousins at the helm, the Falcons have a strong chance of contending for the NFC South title. The team’s devotion to improving overall depth via free agency and the draft is also a reason for optimism.
Another team that could surprise this season is the Arizona Cardinals. Despite back-to-back 4-13 seasons, the Cardinals have reason for optimism. With a healthy Kyler Murray and the addition of Marvin Harrison Jr., the team’s offense is looking strong. The defense is also looking improved, which could make the Cardinals a dark horse in the NFC West.
The Cincinnati Bengals are another team that could make a big impact this season. With a healthy Joe Burrow and the return of top receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the Bengals have a strong chance of reclaiming their spot among the AFC’s elite. The team’s upgraded offensive line and reimagined offense could also make them a force to be reckoned with.
The Green Bay Packers are another team that could surprise this season. With the growth of Jordan Love and the addition of running back Josh Jacobs and veteran safety Xavier McKinney, the Packers are looking strong. The team’s impact rookies like offensive tackle Jordan Morgan and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper could also make a big difference.
Overrated Teams
The Baltimore Ravens are one team that could struggle this season. Despite having MVP Lamar Jackson leading the way, the team has lost several key players, including defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, several top assistants, multiple linebackers, and most of their secondary. The loss of defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald could be particularly damaging, and the team’s rigorous opening stretch could put them in an early hole.
The Indianapolis Colts are another team that could struggle this season. While the team exceeded expectations last season, they still have a lot to prove. Quarterback Anthony Richardson is still a rookie, and the team’s defense is looking shaky. The Colts also lost several key players, including three starters on the offensive line.
The Los Angeles Chargers are another team that could struggle this season. While the team made some big moves in the offseason, including hiring Jim Harbaugh as their new coach, they still have a lot to prove. Quarterback Justin Herbert is still developing, and the team’s defense is looking suspect. The loss of key players like Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Austin Ekeler could also be damaging.
The San Francisco 49ers are another team that could struggle this season. While the team has a talented supporting cast, they still have a lot to prove. The loss of defensive coordinator DeMeco Ryans and the extended absence of Dre Greenlaw could be particularly damaging. The team’s offense is also looking suspect, and the loss of Arik Armstead and Javon Kinlaw could be a big blow.
Defensive Line Rankings
The New York Jets have a fearsome defensive line, even with a couple of offseason departures in the form of John Franklin-Myers and Bryce Huff. The addition of Haason Reddick and the growth of Jermaine Johnson and Will McDonald IV could make the Jets’ defensive line one of the best in the league.
The San Francisco 49ers have a talented defensive line, despite the loss of Arik Armstead. Nick Bosa is a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate, and Javon Hargrave is close to as good as it gets as an interior rusher. The team’s addition of Leonard Floyd as a complement on the outside opposite Bosa could also make a big difference.
The top defensive lines in the NFL
Sunday Ticket Trial
The ongoing Sunday Ticket trial in Los Angeles may be drawing closer to a conclusion entering its fourth week. The league is continuing its efforts to fend off an antitrust lawsuit that could ultimately cost $21 billion and put a major wrench in a longtime, lucrative media-rights strategy.
The ongoing Sunday Ticket trial
In conclusion, the 2024 NFL season is shaping up to be an exciting one. With underrated teams like the Falcons, Cardinals, Bengals, and Packers looking strong, and overrated teams like the Ravens, Colts, Chargers, and 49ers looking suspect, there’s a lot to look forward to. The defensive line rankings are also looking fierce, with the Jets and 49ers leading the way. And with the ongoing Sunday Ticket trial, there’s a lot at stake for the league. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting season.
