AFC East
New England Patriots (12-4)
After their win against the Steelers, it’s hard to say if the Patriots are really that good or if the Steelers defense is just that bad. When you look at the Patriots schedule, it seems pretty easy. They might lose a game or two in the division because of improvements by Buffalo, New York and Miami. With a pissed off Tom Brady and a pretty good run game, they should be able to win the division.
New York Jets (5-11)
Without a real option at quarterback, it would be hard to imagine the Jets winning a lot of games. Their defense has improved and it will keep them in the game but without that quarterback, its not realistic to think of them pulling out those types of wins.
Buffalo Bills (7-9)
Maybe this is bit of a stretch but their defense is pretty good, they have a nice threat at running back and Tyrod Taylor could potentially be a threat at quarterback. Rex Ryan does well in year one with his new team.
Miami Dolphins (8-8)
They have surrounded Ryan Tannehill with some weapons and have provided him the protection up front to make plays. Their defensive line has improved but I still question their back 7 on defense. To me, that will be the difference between being a playoff team or not. Right now, I don’t see it.
AFC North
Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
They could potentially go 11-5 or 12-4 but I think Andy Dalton is on his way out. He’s got the weapons and he just can’t make the plays needed to win. Their defense is there but is it really that good? I don’t think so. However, this division will come down to week 17 when the Bengals host the Ravens for the division crown.
Cleveland Browns (3-13)
Without Josh Gordon, their quarterbacks are going to prove that they belong as backups or in the CFL. They have a nice run game and their defense is decent but I see the defense getting shredded on the ground. Their schedule is tough and I think know how many games they’re going to be able to win.
Baltimore Ravens (9-7)
They’ll get some early season losses because of the lack of firepower on offense. Plus, the toughness of their 2nd half schedule won’t help. Especially, against the Bengals in week 17 to try and win the division.
Pittsburgh Steelers (7-9)
Despite all of their talent, this is the year that the Steelers get a nice spot in the draft to build for their defense. They’ve got suspensions and injuries holding them back, especially in the first month or two of the season.
AFC South
Indianapolis Colts (13-3)
This could be the year that the Colts make the playoffs, especially since head coach Chuck Pagano is on the hot seat. Andrew Luck is outstanding and he’s got plenty of options to throw to. The defense won’t be bad and they play in a soft division, nothing else is needed to be said.
Houston Texans (6-10)
They’ve got a good defense but I don’t think Brian Hoyer is the guy at quarterback. They’ve got a lot of injury concerns and their schedule is no cake walk.
Jacksonville Jaguars (5-11)
Is there any reason to believe in Jacksonville yet? I don’t think their defense is that good and we’re still watching Blake Bortles go through some growing pains.
Tennessee Titans (4-12)
There isn’t a lot to like about the Titans this year. They don’t have the pass rush needed to make plays and their run game has some question marks.
AFC West
Denver Broncos (10-6)
They’ll get just enough wins to win the division. Having a more balanced running attack will keep Peyton Manning upright and around for one more hunt at a Super Bowl.
Oakland Raiders (6-10)
They’ve got some nice pieces but it’s still not there yet. Latavius Murray will either show a lot of promise or be a big disappointment. Derek Carr will also show some growing pains, especially with a rookie WR in Aamari Cooper.
San Diego Chargers (9-7)
They’ll have some health issues but I think they’re going to be good enough to make it to the playoffs. Phillip Rivers and Melvin Gordon are going to have a really good year.
Kansas City Chiefs (8-8)
The Chiefs could be a team that makes the playoffs but they’ll have to beat the Chargers. To me, I like the Chargers over them and the Chiefs will wait until next year to become a serious threat in the AFC West.