New York Giants
Last Season Record: 7-9
2014 Record Prediction 9-7
Impact Players: Eli Manning, Victor Cruz, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Jason Pierre-Paul
Rookie Impact: Odell Beckham Jr., Andre Williams
Top Pickups: Rashad Jennings, Walter Thurmond, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
Needs to Step Up: Rueben Randle, Robert Ayers
Overall Thoughts: The New York Football Giants were definitely underachievers last season, but they still have a two time Super Bowl winning quarterback on their roster. If Eli can find a way to get rid of the ball faster along with the Giants improved running game, they should be on track to at least be in the hunt for a wildcard spot.
Philadelphia Eagles
Last Season Record: 10-6
2014 Record Prediction: 9-7
Impact Players: Nick Foles, LeSean McCoy, Demeco Ryans
Rookie Impact: Jordan Matthews
Top Pickups: Darren Sproles, Malcolm Jenkins
Needs to Step Up: ENTIRE DEFENSE
Overall Thoughts: The Eagles have an offense that would make any fantasy player salivate. But, this is real football and you have to be able to make plays on the other side of the ball as well. I know it’s just the preseason but the Dirty Birds have already given up 34 and 42 points in their first two games. Look for that to be the difference in games down the stretch. The Eagles still have tons of talent and will be able to compete offensively with just about every team in the league, but that defense is the reason they will struggle to repeat as division winners. That and the fact they gave up one of the best young talents in the game for absolutely nothing. Chip Kelly really deserves a year out of the playoffs for that bonehead move.
Washington Redskins
Last Season Record: 3-13
2014 Record Prediction: 10-6
Impact Players: Robert Griffin III, DeSean Jackson, DeAngelo Hall, Alfred Morris
Rookie Impact: None
Top Pickups: DeSean Jackson, Tracy Porter, Brandon Meriweather
Needs to Step Up: Robert Griffin III
Overall Thoughts: I could have named a couple more guys to put in the “Needs to Step Up” category, I didn’t because this entire Redskins’ turnaround hinges on the play of RGIII. After a horrible 2013 where Griffin was the butt of constant criticism and jokes, it’s up to him to right the ship and get the Skins’ going in a new direction. Generally speaking, I’m not a huge optimist in terms of new head coaches with new teams having success in their first season, but I’m putting my faith in Jay Gruden. If RGIII steps up and gets back to form, the Redskins will be in prime form for a playoff run.
Dallas Cowboys
Last Season Record: 8-8
2014 Record Prediction: 6-10
Impact Players: Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, Jason Witten
Rookie Impact: Zack Martin
Top Pickups: Rolando McClain, Brandon Weeden (LOL)
Needs to Step Up: ALL OF DEFENSE
Overall Thoughts: I have the Cowboys penciled in at a 6-10 finish and that might be giving them a little bit more credit than they deserve. The ‘Boys are in trouble. Romo is coming off back surgery “which is why Brandon Weeden is a top pick-up hahhaha”, so who knows how long he will be able to stay healthy. Also, the Cowboys defense will be absolutely HORRID yet again. The Cowboys have been the epitome of mediocrity for a while now, at least they don’t have to worry about that saying this year.
Sports Minded 