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2022 NFL predictions: Projecting NFC playoff seeding in 2022 season

By Lou Scataglia

NFL 2022: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on before the game against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 23, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
NFL 2022: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on before the game against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Raymond James Stadium on January 23, 2022 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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2022 NFL, NFC Playoffs
NFL 2022; Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell (24) looks on following his interception against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 14-13 NFC teams for the 2022 NFL season

No. 14 – Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons are in a similar situation to the Seahawks, however, they appear to have a bit of a succession plan at QB.

Marcus Mariota was brought in, reuniting with head coach Arthur Smith.  Drafting Desmond Ridder in the third round appears to be a decent move, as Ridder and Mariota have a bit in common as players.

Drake London and Kyle Pitts highlight their offense, but their defense isn’t exactly scaring anyone.

Atlanta hasn’t had good talent on their roster for a while, and this is clearly going to be a transition year for the Falcons, as they also dealt Matt Ryan to the Colts.

Expect the Falcons to have a top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

No. 13 – Detroit Lions

I am not a huge fan of Dan Campbell, but the Lions and GM Brad Holmes have been doing some very productive work in free agency and the draft.

Jameson Williams and Aidan Hutchinson highlight a strong draft class, along with perhaps one of the better additions in free agency of DJ Chark.

The Lions’ offense, for all intents and purposes, is set.  Their offensive line is great, running backs are solid, and now appear to have a respectable receiving core.

However, Jared Goff and their defense are going to hold the team down.  I think Goff is clearly a placeholder until they can reasonably upgrade, and by that time, which might be the beginning of the ’23 or ’24 seasons, the Lions’ roster could be legitimate and ready to compete.

For this year, though, I don’t think they’ll make much noise.

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