Three NFC Teams Most Likely to Make Playoffs After Missing in 2021
By Hunter Haas
New teams find their way to the playoffs after missing the year prior. Which NFC squads are most likely to do so in 2022?
The NFC saw a mass exodus of talent this offseason, with the likes of Khalil Mack, Davante Adams, Russell Wilson, Matt Ryan, Terron Armstead, Chandler Jones, and others moving over to the AFC. This leaves an opening to the playoffs that has NFC general managers thinking their team can make it.
NFC Teams That Will Contend for a Playoff Spot in 2022
The Eagles, Cowboys, Cardinals, 49ers, Rams, Buccaneers, and Packers represented the conference in the 2021 NFL Playoffs. The Rams and Buccaneers are the two safest bets to make the playoffs, but that leaves five spots for the remaining 14 teams. Of the nine NFC teams that did not make the playoffs last season, which ones are the most likely to rebound and make it this season?
3. Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders entered the offseason wreaking of desperation to find their next quarterback. After striking out on Russell Wilson, that desperation festered more and more. This led to the team overpaying in a trade for former Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts quarterback Carson Wentz.
When compared to what the Colts gave for Matt Ryan (one third-round pick), it makes you wonder why the Commanders would send two thirds, with the potential of the 2023 pick becoming a second rounder. Yes, Wentz is considerably younger and comes at a similar price tag, but his stock was at an all time low after peeing the bed versus the Jaguars in week 18. Regardless, he is the quarterback now and if they are able to go on a run to the playoffs, he will be worth the investment.
The roster is not quite as talented as he’s used to, but they are much better than given credit for. Chase Young is a superstar, and he is surrounded by a supremely talented defensive line. Jamin Davis mans the middle and is the leader for the linebacker group. William Jackson, Kendall Fuller, and Benjamin St-Juste have the talent to terrorize opposing wide receivers.
Terry McLaurin is the X-factor here, though. If he suits up for the Commanders in 2022, he will be the best wide receiver that Carson Wentz has ever thrown to. And inversely, Carson Wentz will be the best quarterback that Terry McLaurin has ever caught passes from. Jahan Dotson is a fun addition, but Wentz and McLaurin (and Antonio Gibsons health) will determine whether or not Washington puts up a fight in the NFC.