It’s been a busy off-season for NFL front offices. The intensity continues to rise while owners shift their focus toward the regular season. The official schedule for 2023 is out, and fans are excited to see their new slate of opponents.
A slew of hype videos set the stage for the next wave of football, but which teams have the best chances of finishing with a successful record?
NFL Franchise #5 Houston Texans
Houston’s hard work during the draft should pay off this season. They exchanged their second overall pick for C.J. Stroud after numerous reports mentioned the possibility of exploring other options. Trade with the Cardinals presented Houston with an additional top-five pick (3), which landed Will Anderson Jr. (DE).
Additions on both sides of the ball should increase the Texans’ success odds this season. In 2022, they ranked 30th in yards allowed per game (379.5), and their offense finished 31st in points per game (17.0). Their schedule strength for the upcoming season is not as strong as other franchises (.431) – presenting the perfect stage for Head Coach DeMeco Ryans to have an impressive debut.
NFL Franchise #4 Indianapolis Colts
It’s been a while since the Colts were confident in their starting quarterback. Mishaps behind the center caused Indianapolis to miss multiple post-seasons. A search for a gunslinger in the 2023 draft was the last resort for a franchise that desperately needed a leader on offense. With the fourth pick in the draft, the Colts selected Anthony Richardson from the University of Florida. His athletic ability and size remind fans of Cam Newton’s debut – sending hope to fans in Indy praying for a productive season.
The Colts are a step closer to becoming a contender again. They have weapons on offense like Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman Jr, and Isaiah McKenzie and should see an improvement from last season. Acquisitions on defense like Julius Brents (CB) and Adetomiwa Adebawore (DE) will limit teams from scoring – positioning the Colts to take more control of their destiny this season.
NFL Franchise #3 Pittsburgh Steelers
An impressive showing from their rookie quarterback makes the Steelers a team to watch. Last year, Kenny Pickett saved the season – solidifying his spot as the franchise quarterback for the foreseeable future. He still has room for development, but new additions to the roster should ensure a productive season. Pittsburgh signed Allen Robinson (WR) and invested in Broderick Jones with their first-round capital.
On defense, the Steelers added Joey Porter Jr. (CB) and Corey Trice (CB) to the roster – restoring their presence as a ball-hawking defense. Improving from last season is a realistic goal for Mike Tomlin’s team. Adjustments on both sides of the ball will lead to wins against one of the league’s easier schedules (.470). The Steelers always compete, and hard work this off-season should result in a playoff berth.
NFL Franchise #2 Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars have a lot to prove following an impressive 2022 campaign. It was the first time the franchise clinched a playoff berth since 2017, and they plan to experience similar results. Trevor Lawrence’s contributions made a difference on the gridiron last, and he will continue to improve as a professional. He ranked ninth in total passing yards (4,113) – a significant jump from the previous season (3,641).
Protecting their franchise quarterback was the top priority for the front office entering the draft. Jacksonville added Anton Harrison (OT) to the roster with the hope of keeping their franchise player clean. Ventrell Miller (ILB), Tyler Lacy (DE), and Antonio Johnson (S) were also noteworthy selections that will help the defense protect the endzone. Jacksonville understands what it takes to clinch a playoff berth and will look to capitalize on a weaker schedule (.477) and a struggling division.
NFL Franchise #1 New Orleans Saints
A disoriented division will help new faces on the Saints adjust to their new homes. The NFC South finished last regular season as the worst set of franchises in football. None of the teams finished with a winning record-setting stage for a fresh start in 2023. The Saints are equipped to become the front-runner after an extensive off-season. They signed Derek Carr to a four-year $150 million deal and hope his experience will lead to a divisional title.
New Orleans has weapons to get the job done. Alvin Kamara, Chris Olave, and Rashid Shaheed should have productive seasons. Their schedule strength is ranked 31st in the NFL according to CBS Sports, and should help the Saints get back to their winning traditions.
An impressive draft class allowed owners to improve rosters before the regular season. Most franchises took advantage of the opportunity – elevating their chances of experiencing success. While fans wait for the official kick-off of the season, athletes are preparing to take on incoming foes.