Each Division’s Potential Breakout Team for 2012
As NFL training camps get started, I think it’s time to look at what teams could break out in 2012. These teams likely won’t be teams that won their division last year, but in some cases, those teams could still qualify.
AFC East: New York Jets
There is already plenty of pressure put on the Jets in the national media, but I think there might be some bite to their bark this season. The Jets acquired Tim Tebow in a trade from the Broncos, and they made some moves on the defensive side of the ball this offseason that I also liked. They were able to obtain Jeff Otah in a trade from the Panthers, upgrading their offensive line. If they get a settled QB situation right out of camp and the pre-season, they could be a dangerous team.
AFC North: Pittsburgh Steelers
The obvious choice in the North would be the Cincinnati Bengals, but they broke out last season. The Steelers made the playoffs last year as a wildcard, but they can, should, and just might do better. I really liked what the Steelers did in the draft, adding some size and speed on both sides of the ball. Plus, they were in “The Dark Knight Rises” which is absolutely awesome. I think a healthy Steelers team comes out in 2012 and shocks some people.
AFC South: Tennessee Titans
The Titans’ roster is looking really, really good from top to bottom. Yes, they are young and they have some health issues, but the Titans are an up-and-coming team that the Texans need to watch out for again this year. I really like what I see from Jake Locker, and the Titans’ WR trio of Nate Washington, Kenny Britt (if healthy), and Kendall Wright is a very good looking group. This team could surprise.
AFC West: San Diego Chargers
Most people will say the Chiefs because of all of their returning players off of injury, but I think the Chargers had a really solid offseason, adding some high-character players and adding a lot of depth at key positions. This might not be “the year” for the Chargers, but they are definitely a candidate to break out in my eyes.
NFC East: Washington Redskins
The Redskins’ defense looked really good at times last year, and I really like the addition of Robert Griffin III. I think he brings instant credibility to that offense, and the Redskins have added some nice pieces at the WR position over the last two offseasons. This could be a very good team if Griffin matures quickly.
NFC North: Chicago Bears
When the Bears were healthy last year, they were one of the league’s best teams. I think with a healthy Jay Cutler and the additions of Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, and Michael Bush that this team could be very, very tough in 2012. They have the makings of a Super Bowl contender, but Green Bay is going to be a big hurdle to clear in their own division, not to mention the Detroit Lions.
NFC South: Carolina Panthers
Consider me sold on the Carolina Panthers, specifically on Cam Newton. The defense has quite a ways to go, but Newton and the offense appear to be very tough. They got even better with the addition of Louis Murphy from the Oakland Raiders also. This should be one of the best running teams in the NFL in 2012.
NFC West: Seattle Seahawks
Last year, the 49ers came out of nowhere and became one of the NFL’s elite teams. I don’t think the Seahawks will be quite that good, but I really like what Pete Carroll has done with this team. They are very solid defensively, they can run the ball, and their passing game should be improved. They could be a team that surprises some people.