Projecting NFC South Standings
Falcons: 9-8
It feels like, for the better part of a decade, the Falcons have lacked a true identity. They’ve made the playoffs a handful of times, but that could easily be chalked up to playing in one of the weakest divisions in football. There’s plenty of flash with Bijan Robinson, Jesse Bates, A.J. Terrell, and Drake London, but the rest of the roster feels fairly average. Michael Penix Jr. still looks like a very questionable top-ten pick from a couple of years ago, and he really needs a big, full first season to make me a true believer in this team.
Raheem Morris has proven himself as a strong defensive coach, but questions remain about his ability to elevate the offense, even with an elite line and a talented group of weapons. This team is definitely on the rise, and in a wide-open NFC South, I have them winning the division. Still, more work needs to be done before Atlanta can be taken seriously as a contender in the conference
Buccaneers: 9-8
When Tom Brady chose Tampa Bay, many questioned the decision, but that sneaky-good roster proved key in winning a Super Bowl just a few years back. While this version of the Bucs isn’t at that level, they still carry some underdog appeal. Baker Mayfield is playing on a reasonable contract while producing like a fringe top-12 quarterback, and that stability at the most important position gives them a real shot in the NFC South.
With one of the league’s best wide receiver rooms—Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and rookie Emeka Egbuka—plus solid offensive and defensive lines, Tampa Bay is well-positioned to compete for the division title. However, the loss of offensive coordinator Liam Coen to Jacksonville and their continued struggles against elite teams keep me from buying in completely. The Bucs should be good, maybe even very good, but I’m not convinced they’re ready to be great again.
Panthers: 7-10
Nothing would make me happier than seeing Bryce Young finally succeed in the league, but as much as I like him, I’m not sure that world exists. He was benched for Andy Dalton at the beginning of last season, and his second-half “comeback” felt more about vibes and flashes of potential than actual wins.
The offensive line has taken a real step forward, Tet McMillian should massively help Young, and there’s sneaky talent on defense with Jaycee Horn and Derrick Brown. With one of the easiest schedules in the league and some long-awaited momentum not seen since the Cam Newton days, the Panthers should improve. Wins may still be modest, but I’m definitely a believer in the direction this team is heading.
Saints: 5-12
Move over, Jets fans, there may be a new most miserable franchise in the league. The Saints have an aging, overpaid roster, Spencer Rattler as the starting quarterback, and a rookie head coach trying to steer a team with no clear direction. Outside of Chris Olave (when he’s rarely uninjured), there isn’t much to get excited about on offense, and the once-feared defense looks well past its prime.
The second-easiest schedule should give them a handful of wins, but the ceiling is painfully low. Unless Kellen Moore somehow proves to be the next Sean Payton, New Orleans feels stuck in neutral and staring down a long rebuild. For new fans, be warned: it could be years before real winning football returns.
