Bold 2016 NFL Predictions: Trent Richardson Redux?

The 2016 NFL predictions season is underway, and a good method of starting it is by going deep from the start with some bold calls.

Indeed the upcoming season can’t arrive fast enough.  A crazy draft weekend added dozens of subplots to what was already a highly anticipated year from big returns, to big exits and whether there is a shifting balance of power in both the NFC and AFC.  To help identify some of the outlandish possibilities that could be ahead, the Mocks crew was brought together and asked a simple question:  make a bold prediction for this season.

These are some of the whoppers they delivered.

Rodney Stokes:  Overachieving Cleveland Browns

"“The Browns win more than five football games. I like what they did in the draft even though there were a few questionable selections. Overall this team comes down to what Hue can provide as the head coach and what he can get out of his players. The Browns strength of schedule isn’t ridiculous by any means and they can expect to win a game or two in the division. If RGIII can find chemistry with his new receivers and defensive coordinator Ray Horton can return the defense to form, the Browns have a chance to surprise people in 2016.”"

Eric Robinson:  Beware the AFC South

"“Not sure if it’s classified as “bold” but the AFC South will be the most entertaining division in the NFL. All four teams have made improvements during this offseason. Some more significant (Jaguars) than others (Colts) but nonetheless, all four are better than they were at the conclusion of the 2015 season. That is a division that will be neck and neck and will come down to week 17 to determine the victor.”"

Sam Beckenstein:  Return of Trent Richardson

"“Trent Richardson makes a 53 man roster.  Only way it happens is if he plays well enough with the Ravens in the preseason to either stay or warrant being added by a running back needy team for depth. He’s cut a lot of weight and gotten in better shape but it obviously means nothing if he can’t see a hole or perform.  Still, Baltimore is known for reclamation projects.”"

Jeff Olsen:  All Hail the Bengals

"“The Cincinnati Bengals will have the best record in the AFC.  I love what they did in the draft. That defense is going to be very good on every level. They have a the talent for a strong running game. They have a top 10 WR. If we see the Dalton we saw last season then there is no reason they shouldn’t win 12 games barring injury.”"

Erik Lambert:  Jay Cutler reaches 2nd Pro Bowl

To put this in perspective, keep in mind the last time that Cutler made it to Hawaii was 2008.  That was almost eight years ago and he was playing for a different team.  Some could argue he should’ve gone last year after putting up the most efficient season of his career with over 3,600 yards and 21 touchdowns to just 11 interceptions.  This season he will have Alshon Jeffery, Kevin White and Eddie Royal all back healthy.  If he plays like he did in 2015 with them on the field, it’s going to be a good year.