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The Kansas Metropolis Chiefs are back-to-back AFC champions, they usually’re in a very good place to repeat that feat once more this 12 months. The remainder of the convention remains to be value looking at, although.
Whereas some normal suspects stay on the high, others close to the underside have overturned their rosters sufficient to doubtlessly make a distinction in 2021. With seven playoff groups and only one high seed to struggle for, battling for house subject benefit will imply that rather more for the second consecutive season.
Arrowhead Report‘s Mark Van Sickle joined me on Monday’s Roughing the Kicker podcast to rank the sphere. (The Chiefs are excluded.) Somewhat than itemizing a definitive set of rankings, I am going to present my convention tiers checklist with a short synopsis of every stage. For extra perspective, pay attention under.
Challengers: Cleveland Browns, Buffalo Payments
Each of those groups confronted the Chiefs within the playoffs final season, and neither acquired worse this offseason. Whereas Buffalo stood pat for probably the most half, it returns one of many league’s finest rosters. Cleveland, alternatively, underwent a defensive overhaul that would end in among the best items within the league in 2021.
Securing house subject benefit can be paramount if both of those squads desires to legitimately problem the Chiefs. Which will take upwards of 12 wins within the new 17-game format, which is a tall job. With that stated, each Cleveland and Buffalo determine to be close to the highest of the AFC standings this season. The Browns get the slight edge right here as a consequence of their immense upside if every thing clicks.
Wait-and-see: Baltimore Ravens, Tennessee Titans
Even if Baltimore and Tennessee discover themselves within the second tier, they might each show to be premier AFC foes for the Chiefs. The Patrick Mahomes-Lamar Jackson rivalry hasn’t gone the Ravens’ method so far, however with an offense chock filled with weapons, they will look to determine themselves as a severe risk. How the items match collectively can be value watching because the season unfolds.
Talking of items, Tennessee added a improbable one this offseason in Julio Jones. In addition they responded to some roster turnover on protection with a flurry of additives. It’s going to take a while earlier than the new-look group jells collectively, but when it does, it boasts fairly the ceiling. The Titans will go so far as quarterback Ryan Tannehill takes them.
Better of the remaining: Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots
Miami gave the Chiefs a run for his or her cash in a regular-season sport final 12 months, and with extra weapons round quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, issues could also be beginning to search for. The Chargers additionally gave Kansas Metropolis hassle in 2020 and are lastly wholesome and heading in a brand new course below first-year head coach Brandon Staley. Each groups ought to compete for the AFC’s wild-card berths this season.
The Colts discover themselves trying to retool on the fly, including quarterback Carson Wentz by way of commerce earlier within the 12 months. They are not fairly as well-built within the trenches as they was once, but when the play below heart is strong, Indianapolis very effectively may return to the playoffs. The well being and restoration of former Chiefs left deal with Eric Fisher (rehabbing from a torn Achilles tendon) can be important.
It is attainable that no group had as hectic of an offseason because the Patriots. Cam Newton is being given a second likelihood in New England, however not with out some competitors from rookie Mac Jones. With improved receiving choices and Newton’s well being returning to near-100% ranges, do not be shocked if Invoice Belichick’s squad flies below the radar and sneaks into the playoffs.
Learn Extra: Five Reasons the Chiefs Will Dominate the AFC (Again)
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