Gaines was rushed to the emergency room in the early hours of morning and, while the cause of death or concern is still unknown, the coroner has divulged that Gaines appeared perfectly healthy before his death was pronounced. An autopsy is scheduled for later today.

It seems 26 is the unlucky number right now in the NFL. This story strikes a chord as it follows the death of Cincinnati’s wide receiver Chris Henry no more than a month ago, also at the tender age of 26.

The league and it’s fans alike were only just healing from Henry’s tragic loss and are now faced with another to overcome.

Gaines, a former Clemson University star, was drafted with the fourth overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2007 draft. He was traded to the Bears in October of last year for a second round pick in April.

He appeared in 15 games with the Bears last season and recorded one sack, two forced fumbles, and three safeties.

During the 2007 draft, in a time when character was on the chopping block, players like Adam “Pacman” Jones and Florida’s Marcus Thomas were only projecting the attitude that had cast such a flawed shadow over the league.

Adams was one of the few players who countered that image and showed that good character was not something of a rare nature in the NFL. Although later he and a few others at the combine admitted to using marijuana, it didn’t stain or reflect in his personality.

He continued to be a positive influence in the locker room and appeared to be headed in the right direction by adding himself to an already budding Bears defense.

In an interview with ESPN reporters, Bates expressed that he felt he had more security in Seattle than in Chicago due to his former coaching relationship with Pete Carroll.

It was believed that Bates might go to the Bears in order to be reunited with Jay Cutler, a former player of his when he was the offensive coordinator in Denver.

When Bates was hired at USC, Cutler had this to say of his former coach: “Jeremy is one of the best offensive minds in football. He was extremely innovative with our offense and took our playbook to the next level with some of the things he did, keeping defenses off balance and changing our look but at the same time keeping it simple for us players.”

It’s clear that Cutler would have loved to have his old coach in the Windy City, but for now, the Bears are still searching for an offensive coordinator. The more popular prospects remaining are Mike Martz, Jedd Fisch, and Bill Musgrave.

While it’s purely speculation for now, the presence of both Carroll and Bates in Seattle could mean a new quarterback in a ‘Hawks jersey before the start of the 2010 season.

The obvious guess would have to be Matt Leinart, a former USC star who lit up the field under Carroll and staff. Another guess might be that, with two first round picks, Seattle might have enough firepower to acquire Cutler from a struggling Bears team that may be looking to reestablish their offense under a different passer.

There are a number of possibilities with an uncapped year approaching, though. After a short and unsuccessful run in this year’s playoffs, both the Bengals and the Eagles consider trading their longtime superstars.

Either way, Seattle stands in a good position to retake control of the NFC West and make a run for the playoffs in 2010.

While few games lived-up to their hype, we were blessed with a classic game between the Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots on Sunday, while getting the chance to watch history between the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings on Monday.

Still, when it’s all said and done, there are five teams who are undefeated after four games, and all of those teams have taken different journeys.

Read on to see who makes the top five, and then check to see where everyone else fits in:

1. New York Giants (4-0)

Their running game wasn’t lights-out, but it definitely didn’t have any troubles with Kansas City’s defensive line. This Eli Manning-to-Steve Smith combination is really heating up.

2. New Orleans Saints (4-0)

Make that two straight games won by the excellent run offense and great defense. Boy, they reall made Mark Sanchez look like a rookie.

3. Indianapolis Colts (4-0)

Peyton Manning is far and away from simply having his offense clicking on all cylinders. Four straight 300+ yard passing games to start the season? Yeah, Manning looks comfortable.

4. Minnesota Vikings (4-0)

This was more than just Brett Favre getting revenge on his old team. It’s now official: This team can win either on the ground or through the air. And can we all finally agree that Jared Allen is the best defensive end in football?

5. Baltimore Ravens (3-1)

Is it just me, or did New England’s defense just give Baltimore a tutorial on how to stop a game-winning drive?

6. New York Jets (3-1)

Mark Sanchez waited three weeks to show us how bad he can play. But was it really on him, or were the Saints just that good?

7. New England Patriots (3-1)

Their lone loss showed that the Jets could compete. But their wins are saying even more. Too many people are making the mistake of thinking their offense isn’t doing things the right way. They might not touch 2007 again, but they move the chains, just fine.

8. Denver Broncos (4-0)

You can talk-down the Cowboys win all you want, but at some point you need to look past the opponents and say, “Hey, this team is undefeated”.

9. San Francisco 49ers (3-1)

A week after getting burned by some Brett Favre-magic, they pitch a shut-out? I don’t care if it wa the Rams. That’s the sign of a determined and well-coached team. Tell me they aren’t a lock for this division.

10. Chicago Bears (3-1)

One bad Jay Cutler performance, combined with the loss of Brian Urlacher, and the Bears season was over, right? Not so fast. Three straight wins, and these Bears could be looking at a tie for first place if Minnesota loses on Monday night.

11. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2)

Their defense continues to miss Troy Polamalu, but that offense is absolutely clicking right now. Take their two close losses away, and this is still one heck of a football team.

12. Philadelphia Eagles (2-1)

Getting Donovan McNabb, Kevin Curtis, and Brian Westbrook all back and at full speed could make this offense finally show-off what it has to offer. A lot of people are sleeping on this team, but don’t forget, they can still win this division.

13. San Diego Chargers (2-2)

They couldn’t get the run game going. I get that, but to not even give Darren Sproles a chance? They were 2-1 for a reason, and giving a stud like Sproles once touch per game was not it.

14. Atlanta Falcons (2-1)

The Falcons will take their bye to find solace in the fact that their only loss came against a solid 3-1 Patriots team. But now they have to stay stride-for-stride with New Orleans.

15. Cincinnati Bengals (3-1)

What’s more telling? That this team persevered and fought it’s way to 3-1, or that it needed overtime to get past the Cleveland Browns.

16. Dallas Cowboys (2-2)

This is why Jerry Jone has to constantly defend Tony Romo. He gets chance after chance, and he simply cannot come through in the clutch.

17. Green Bay Packers (2-2)

You can talk about Aaron Rodger’s gutsy play and the Packers mini-comeback all you want, but if that offensive line doesn’t get better real fast, this team is doomed.

18. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-2)

They can run, they can pass, and while it was against a winless team, they can even play a little defense. That connection between David Garrard and Mike Sims-Walker was something special.

19. Houston Texans (2-2)

Steve Slaton broke-out when Houston needed him most, as their passing offense struggled, throughout. Hand it to that defense, though, for stepping-up and shutting down the Raiders rush attack.

20. Arizona Cardinals (1-2)

I know the Colts are good, but they were missing three key starters on defense, and Kurt Warner simply couldn’t take advantage. It’s only a matter of time before the on-field issues start messing with the make-up in the locker room.

21. Miami Dolphins (1-3)

This bashing of the Bills shows that Chad Henne isn’t “like a rookie”, and that the Wildcat isn’t quite dead in Miami. They play in a tough division and conference, but this team isn’t quite dead yet.

22. Seattle Seahawks (1-3)

They ran into an insanely hot Colts offense, and a defense that few people have yet to give the credit they’re due. Seattle gets Matt Hasselbeck back for their next match-up, and we’ve yet to see this team’s true identity.

23. Washington Redskins (2-2)

Make that two wins the Redskins have stumbled upon and didn’t quite deserve. Clinton Portis was the only player on offense making any sense for the first three quarters. If only Jason Campbell could play all game like he plays in the fourth quarter.

24. Buffalo Bills (1-3)

Was Marshawn Lynch’s return that much of a distraction, or is this a sign Trent Edwards no longer has any self-confidence? We’re starting to find out how shaky this defense is, as well.

25. Tennessee Titans (0-4)

They could have gotten a mulligan for any one of their first three losses. But losing to a Jacksonville team like this? We know the Jaguars aren’t a powerhouse, but on that same note, we’re finally seeing just how vulnerable the Titans truly are.

26. Oakland Raiders (1-3)

Darren McFadden simply did not show up against what was hyped-up as one of the league’s worst run defenses. On that same note, it never fails to amaze me at just how bad Jamarcus Russell can play. Al Davis needs to switch this team’s direction at quarterback as soon as possible.

27. Carolina Panthers (0-3)

Cue the count-down until Jake Delhomme is benched.

28. Detroit Lions (1-3)

They ran into a hot Bears team, but still hung with them until the fourth quarter. Jim Schwartz has to feel good about what he’s seeing from Matthew Stafford.

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-4)

Getting Antonio Bryant helped the passing game a bit, and while it was only in spurts, that Josh Johnson kid showed us that Josh Freeman’s first start could be further away than we think.

30. Cleveland Browns (0-4)

They didn’t win, but Derek Anderson showed how far this offense can go when the right guy is behind center. I wasn’t buyin the hype that he could make a difference, but it’s clear the shots he takes down the field stretch the defense.

31. Kansas City Chiefs (0-4)

Matt Cassel continues to display the lack of leadership and experience that many experts were afraid of. He doesn’t have a ton of supporting talent and he was up against the Giants, but he has to show more than this.

32. St. Louis Rams (0-4)

It appears that offensive spark Kyle Boller provided in week three was a mirage. That, or they just ran into the most under-rated defense in the NFC.

Looking for the next big gem but not into digging for it yourself? That’s all gravy.

Take a look at the 10 safest rookie bets after two weeks (by position), along with some analysis toward their future, as well as a good look at their present.

And no, Matthew Stafford doesn’t make the list. Why? Because all he’s good for is interceptions; that’s why.

Mark Sanchez, QB, New York Jets

Last Week: 14-22, 167 yds, 1 TD, 0 INT

Sanchez has looked like a seasoned veteran in his first two games, throwing for three touchdowns, 435 yards, and only one interception.

However, the drop from 31 attempts and 272 yards in Week One to 22 attempts and only 167 yards in Week Two is exactly the kind of inconsistency you need to prepare for when dealing with a rookie.

Regardless, Sanchez is doing his best Matt Ryan impression and is easily the better play between him and Matthew Stafford going forward.

Donald Brown, RB, Indianapolis Colts

Last Week: 4 att, 26 yds, 1 TD, 1 rec, 24 yds, 0 TD

We already knew the guy had good speed and the shiftiness of a receiver. What we didn’t know is that he’s also clutch as hell.

Brown burst up the middle for the Colts’ 15-yard winning touchdown run in front of the nation despite only touching the ball four times earlier in the game.

His four carries were quite a drop from his solid 11 totes in Week One, making Brown’s touches and role in the offense a bit unpredictable.

It’s quite clear that Brown is going to stay a part of the Colts ground game, though, and has already contributed 40 yards receiving in two games, offering promise as a potential screen demon.

Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Arizona Cardinals

Last Week: 7 att, 44 yds, 0 TD

Wells has had a solid seven touches in both games this season and probably would have seen more action in Week Two if it hadn’t been for his two fumbles.

It’s clear that Arizona is more comfortable with Tim Hightower, especially in the passing game, where Wells has a very disappointing zero catches.

Look for his overall touches to climb to 10-12 in the next few weeks as Wells rises to an average flex play.

LeSean McCoy, RB, Philadelphia Eagles

Last Week: 5 att, 18 yds, 0 TD, 4 rec, 37 yds, 0 TD

McCoy will only go as far as Brian Westbrook’s health allows him to, which actually makes him a guy to watch heading into Week Three, as Westbrook missed Wednesday’s practice.

With 19 touches for 102 yards, McCoy is averaging 50 yards per game and is a strong candidate to heat up as the season wears on.

With Westbrook’s age (30) and injury concerns, McCoy’s already decent numbers are very promising.

Percy Harvin, WR, Minnesota Vikings

Last Week: 5 rec, 41 yds, 1 TD, 2 att, 14 yds, 0 TD

All the assumptions of how Harvin could be used in the Minnesota offense are coming true. He’s proving to be a solid slot receiver, and he has also taken two handoffs in both games while introducing some Wildcat plays heading into Week Three.

Harvin has already developed a nice connection with Brett Favre, as Harvin has totaled eight receptions for 77 yards and two scores through the first two weeks.

Johnny Knox, WR, Chicago Bears

Last Week: 6 rec, 70 yds, 1 TD

Word on the street is that Knox could soon be pushing for Earl Bennett’s starting job. And why not?

All Knox has does thus far as a rookie is notch at least 70 yards receiving in both of his games, providing the Bears with their second deadly deep threat in the passing game.

Knox has a ton of upside and already is showing good route-running ability through just his second NFL game.

Julian Edelman, WR, New England Patriots

Last Week: 8 rec, 98 yds, 0 TD

Edelman filled in quite nicely for the game-day scratch of Wes Welker, and he even confused many people by playing a lot like the standout receiver.

However, Edelman’s inexperience was fairly evident on several drops, including a sure touchdown near the goal line.

Still, Edelman proved worthy of 16 Tom Brady targets and, with almost 100 yards in his first start, should be a valuable asset to an offense that still has the tools to be quite explosive.

Kenny Britt, WR, Tennessee Titans

Last Week: 2 rec, 22 yds, 0 TD

Britt delivered quite a rookie-esque performance after showing his big-play ability in his debut against the Steelers.

Britt is still capable of making plays for Tennessee but will be somewhat limited as the third receiver in a run-first offense.

Louis Murphy, WR, Oakland Raiders

Last Week: 2 rec, 26 yds, 0 TD

Murphy came crashing down to earth a bit after his stellar rookie debut on Monday night in Week One.

Hs two catches for 26 yards make for a far cry from his “waiver-wire wonder” numbers of four catches, 87 yards, and a touchdown in front of the nation in Week One.

The rookie even had another touchdown grab, but it was called back due to a penalty.

Murphy is outperforming first-round draft pick Darrius Heyward-Bey by leaps and bounds, performing well enough to make Oakland think twice about benching him in favor of Chaz Schilens.

Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Detroit Lions

Last Week: 4 rec, 40 yds, 0 TD

After not being targeted at all in Week One, Pettigrew was fairly active against the Vikings with four catches.

This makes Pettigrew a decent TE2 play going forward, though he’s probably going to get some stiff rookie competition from Buffalo’s Shawn Nelson (three catches, one touchdown).

The big news this off-season in Chicago was the acquisition of former Denver quarterback Jay Cutler, as well as a sound NFL Draft.

The Bears added depth and competition to their receiving corps, and also added a few players on defense that bring youth and versatility to an aging defense.

There are many questions surrounding the Bears that could be answered by the end of August, as well as a few others that may take the entire season to answer.

5. Greg Olsen as the New Starting Tight End

It has recently been reported than Greg Olsen will officially take over in Chicago as the top tight end, relegating the veteran blocking tight end, Desmond Clark, to the bench.

While Clark will still be used a lot, and quite possibly just as much as Olsen, he will not be featured in the passing game as often.

Olsen’s tremendous size and speed should provide a big target for Jay Cutler, which should potentially open up a lethargic passing offense.

From a fantasy perspective, look for Olsen’s numbers to improve greatly, with 70 catches and over 800 yards being fairly realistic.

4. Will the Offensive Line Be Better?

Only a few years removed from having one of the better line’s in the NFL, Chicago is slowly but surely working it’s way back to the NFL’s elite.

They have some aging players, as well as a few young, raw prospects.

While they have made strides in the rush offense, pass protection continues to be their Achilles’ heel.

An established Pro Bowl quarterback like Jay Cutler could take some of the pressure off of this growing offensive line.

3. Can the Defense Still Be Elite?

Brian Urlacher had an off year, the Bears said good-bye to Mike Brown, and the few defensive rookies they did draft aren’t projected for immediate impacts.

Throw in an injury to Charles Tillman, and there are suddenly enough questions regarding this defense, that it’s difficult to call them elite anymore.

If Urlacher can bounce back and show he’s still a prime-time performer, he could take up enough space and garner enough attention over the middle to allow Lance Briggs and others to roam free and make plays.

Craig Stelz stepping up at safety will also be a huge issue to be watched. Stelz has a great cerebral game with goo instincts, while receiving knocks in regards to his speed and explosiveness.

His development, as well as the improvement of Chicago’s overall defense chemistry, could have a huge impact on how the defense plays out.

Still, even if there aren’t as many changes as Chicago fans would like, the defense as it stands is still easily the second-best defense in the NFC North, which won’t keep them from being competitive.

2. Who Will Step-Up at Receiver?

While Jay Cutler is a substantial improvement under center, his mere presence alone doesn’t guarantee any change of production out of the receiving corps.

The rookies and veterans will have to put their own effort in to make a successful transition to an above-average squad.

Devin Hester’s speed, explosiveness, and improved route-running keeps him s the number one option, while Earl Bennett and Rashied Davis are the early favorites to round out the top three spots.

Rookies Juaquin Iglesias and Johnny Knox are definitely going to be a part of the offense, but only their preseason play will guarantee one way or another just how much of a role they will play.

Iglesias is in a mold much like Bennett, while Knox is a flat-out burner who would potentially work as Chicago’s best slot receiver.

1. Is Jay Cutler Chicago’s Savior?

He’s not Jim McMahon, and there’s no guaranteed Super Bowl.

Then again, he’s not Cade McNown, Rex Grossman, or Kyle Orton, either.

He’s much better.

Cutler may not have won more than eight games in a season yet, but he’s young and hasn’t had much help in the form of solid defense in his two and a half seasons as a starter.

While his weapons regress to a return man-turned-receiver and a fast tight end (Greg Olsen), Cutler still has a big arm and the moxie and confidence to guide a dramatic offensive turn around.

If Kyle Orton could toss nearly 3,000 yards and 18 touchdowns with these weapons, just imagine what Cutler could be capable of.

Don’t expect a huge drop-off from 2008′s numbers.

I can’t believe the Bears Betting Odds this year. I think there is some value there.

Jay Cutler is overrated, and Kyle Orton is a system quarterback. Or is it, Cutler is a wimpy cry baby, and Orton is a simple-minded game-manager?

How about none of those?

Why do either of these guys have to be regarded as fantasy (or real world) busts for 2009, just because they are switching teams?

Yes, they both have new offenses, new coaches, new cities, and new weapons.

But that doesn’t mean they aren’t good or can’t play at an elite level.

Since both of these players have a hate-wagon following them to every city they go to, I beg of you to relax, sit back, and read an unbiased approach to both of their new situations.

Life is about change, people. Remember the song? Change, change…will do you good. No?

Well, still, both of these guys are talented enough to make things happen in their first year in new colors, and I have evidence as to why I believe so.

Jay Cutler

Cutler took over for Jake Plummer mid-way through the season three years ago, and showed enough to Mike Shanahan and co. that they knew they had done the right thing.

Trouble is, they stopped at the quarterback, and never built a new defense.

John Lynch, anyone?

Cutler went on to form a bitter and exciting rivalry with Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers, routinely dominate the Oakland Raiders, and finally turned himself into a sure- fire Pro Bowler in 2008.

You don’t pass for 25 touchdowns and over 4,500 yards on a whim. The guy is talented.

He’s got a Brett Favre-moxie that you can’t teach, a rocket arm, and excellent mobility.

To anyone who doubts his ability to win, or his fading at times in clutch situations, I have some news for you.

The guy is 25 years old.

He just started coming into his own last year, and while a change in scenery could potentially affect that growth, I believe he’s already reached a confidence and talent level too high to be knocked back down to where he was as a rookie.

In Chicago he will find no Brandon Marshall’s, no Eddie Royal’s, and no Mike Shanahan.

But he still has weapons.

Devin Hester’s speed and explosiveness could make both players look like magicians in 2008, and Greg Olsen’s size and speed could make Tony Scheffler look like a baby Mark Chmura.

The point is, Cutler may not be quite as “great” as his Denver weapons and numbers made him out to be, but he also isn’t anywhere close to the wimpy, cry baby, drama king that the trade to Chicago made him out to be, either.

He still knows how to play football, and he’s talented enough to make things happen with the few weapons that Chicago does have.

Oh, and this time around, he’ll actually have a supportive defense.

Kyle Orton

Orton is entering into a system that gave Matt Cassel the quickest quarterback make-over we’ve ever seen.

Cassel had no experience to speak of at any level, and hadn’t started a football game since high school. We may find out fairly soon in Kansas City that, while the guy is talented, he is nowhere near as good as this system (and Randy Moss and Wes Welker) made him out to be.

Do you see the common theme, here? Nothing is what you think it is. At least, not when you’re discussing Cutler and Orton.

Orton tossed over 2,900 yards and 18 touchdowns with those average weapons everyone keeps talking about, and is now walking into Jay Cutler-territory, where he has the luxury of having Marshall, Royal, and Scheffler at his disposal.

So, really, which is it?

Did those talented receivers make Cutler, or did Orton’s lack of talent make him? Or is it both?

I say neither.

Orton proved (on a bum ankle for the final four weeks) that he can manage games, and is talented enough to put up solid numbers, despite not having polished weapons around him.

With a new cast of friends sharing the load on offense, Orton’s numbers could get half-way to where Cutler was last year.

And as far as that whole “system quarterback” label is concerned-so what?

If he is indeed a system quarterback, then that’s all the more reason to pull the trade that Josh McDaniels orchestrated, and nab Orton, a guy who can clearly do what he’s told, when he’s told it, and do it well.

Denver won’t have the defensive support Orton had last year, at least not immediately, but if McDaniels system is anything like Bill Belichick’s in New England, there should be some good results.

Fantasy Summary

If you’re looking to draft either of these guys as sleepers, good luck.

It’s becoming more and more obvious that both quarterbacks are getting very comfortable in their new environment, and with all of their respective offensive weapons healthy, there’s no reason to think they both can’t succeed.

Cutler has his defense backing him, as well as a fantastic weapon in Matt Forte (who people tend to overlook when talking about Cutler’s supporting cast), and whether you like it or not, the guy is actually good.

Orton, on the other hand, is only going to play as bad as Brandon Marshall allows him to, and Eddie Royal is set-up to have huge numbers as the Wes Welker-clone, as well.

If those two receivers are putting up elite numbers, don’t you think Orton will reap some of those benefits?

Real World Summary

If we’re being realistic, it’s as simple as this:

Orton is good enough to help make the Denver offense go, but their offensive line is still aging, and their entire defense is, well, incomplete.

They are probably still a .500 team, but Orton is too smart and safe to have them lose more than nine games.

Cutler, on the other hand, has a good defense and special teams, and while some of his weapons aren’t necessarily elite or proven yet, they have the athleticism and explosive needed to make that jump.

With Cutler’s arm guiding the way, the Bears could enter into the top ten in the league, offensively.

Even if they don’t, Cutler is still better than Orton, and Chicago won’t finish any worse than they did last year, which could equate to Cutler’s first “winning” season.

There won’t be a Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco this year.

Mark Sanchez could see his team get the playoffs, but it will undoubtedly not be because he throws for 3,000 yards and 20+ touchdowns.

There’s not going to be an Adrian Peterson, or a slew of Chris Johnson’s, Steve Slaton’s, and Matt Forte’s.

Realistically, there are only two rookie running backs worth drafting in the top five rounds.

That might even be a reach.

Wide Receivers are no different.

There are a few with a solid chance at starting, and a few more with duties in the slot almost guaranteed.

But superstars? Not even Michael Crabtree.

If you must take a chance, or are investing for a dynasty or keeper league, here’s the top five guys that could pan out, just as you’d hoped.

Honorable Mentions: Donald Brown, Shonne Green, LeSean McCoy, Kenny Britt, Percy Harvin

5.Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers

Regardless of what some biased scouts said about him, the guy can flat-out play.

He has the hands, smarts, and body control of a dominant NFL wide receiver, and that’s exactly what he’ll be-some day.

Crabtree is still behind Isaac Bruce, Josh Morgan, and probably even Jason Hill.

Due to missed practices and the depth ahead of him, Crabtree is in danger of starting his rookie year as the fourth option.

He’s still been going high (eighth) round, so you may have to fight for him.

But I suggest you let someone else take that chance.

4. Brian Robiskie, WR, Cleveland Browns

If there’s any receiver who is a shoe-in to start, it’s Robiskie.

He has exceptional hands and body control, and reportedly runs routes and handles coverage like a veteran.

He may not have blazing speed, but Robiskie is vastly underrated, and projects to snag the number two spot before the season starts.

Robiskie would make for a nice steal in rounds 8 to 10.

3. Knownshon Moreno, RB, Denver Broncos

He could very well end up being the best player on this list (this year, and beyond), but his offensive system and depth at his position really don’t suggest so.

Head Coach Josh McDaniels runs 3-4 backs at all times, and prefers the pass over the run. If Kyle Orton does well, they’ll stick to that plan, which could have Moreno falling short of 1,000 yards, despite being “the starter.”

2. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

There’s simply too much talent ahead of him for him to start right away.

Kevin Curtis has paid his dues and is still effective, while it’s unrealistic to think the electric DeSean Jackson will take a back seat to the rookie.

Maclin’s talent is off the charts, though, with excellent size, speed, and hands.

He won’t start the season as Philly’s go-to receiver, but he’s likely to send Curtis to slot duties, eventually.

1. Chris “Beanie” Wells, RB, Arizona Cardinals

Don’t buy the hype.

Tim Hightower is a failed experiment, and Arizona spent a first rounder on Wells for a good reason: to start him.

He may be eased into the role, but there’s no reason to have him sit behind the ineffective Hightower.

Hightower has a slight advantage in the passing game, but expecting that to keep Wells off the field is simply laughable.

The Cardinals aim to have a more balanced attack, and if Wells can help make that successful, he could post the best numbers of all the rookies.

It seems everyone out there is doing all types of player rankings (as am I) or power rankings, which leaves this writer thinking, “why not me, too?”

The big questions are what teams won’t repeat as playoff contenders, as well as whether or not there will be any huge surprise teams to crack the rotation—such as the Arizona Cardinals from 2008.

It’s a waste of time to predict what team’s will have what records, as injuries, roster changes, and coaching philosophy hasn’t taken it’s full effect, and probably won’t until mid-season.

However, with the draft in the books, the first big wave of free agency done and over with, it’s time to take a breather from the Brett Favre-sage, among other things, and ponder what 12 teams will vie for a title next season.

Spoiler Alert: The Lions aren’t one of them.

AFC

New England Patriots

A healthy Brady means a wild, and crazy “bunch”. The offense was fine without him—but it just wasn’t the same.

With more depth added on defense through the draft, we will start to see somewhat of a rebuilding project, all while this team makes a fun for the Super Bowl.

Verdict: Division Winner

New York Jets

The only huge question mark is the quarterback position. Leave the defensive decisions to the mastermind, Rex Ryan.

If their running game can help out rookie Mark Sanchez (who will be the starter), then they have a real chance to get close to 10-6, and nab a wild-card spot.

Verdict: Wild Card

Buffalo Bills

The new addition of Terrell Owens will do more than the experts think, but the playoffs? That’s a bit of a reach.

Owens’ presence will allow Trent Edwards and Lee Evans to develop faster, and the Bills offense should grow, as a whole. There are too many question marks with their pass rush and overall depth on defense, though.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins weren’t built to go 11-5 last year, but an easy schedule and a scorned quarterback led them to a remarkable season.

They’ll probably regress to somewhere between 6-10 and 9-7, but not without steady improvement from their receivers. 2010 will be their season to strike.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Pittsburgh Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger and co. are too tough and determined to have a Super Bowl-hangover.

With Willie Parker healthy, they’ll have a solid ground game to rely on, once again, which will open things up for rising star, Santonio Holmes.

Verdict: Division Winner

Baltimore Ravens

We should see steady improvement from Joe Flacco in his second season, but then again, that’s what everyone said about Rick Mirer.

I believe in the Flacco buzz, but he doesn’t have elite offensive weapons, and his defense is aging.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals are more prepared to win now, than people give them credit for.

They still have solid receivers and a Pro Bowl-type quarterback in Carson Palmer. Clearly their main issues are on defense, but if Cedric Benson can run like he did in the final three games last season, they could push for a wild card.

Verdict: Stuck in Mediocrity

Cleveland Browns

It’s never good when you aren’t even sure who your starting quarterback is. To make matters worse, they have a receiver who drops passes, no tight end, and no true weapons to rely on.

It’ll be a rough first year for Eric Mangini.

Verdict: Bottom of the Barrel

Indianapolis Colts

Eventually this team has to drop-off, right?

With Tony Dungy, Tom Moore, and Marvin Harrison all gone, it’s the perfect time for the Colts to fall away from being contenders.

But they have Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, and Dallas Clark.

Just those three players are good enough for them to win the division.

Verdict: Division Winner

Houston Texans

If Matt Schaub can stay healthy (that’s a big “if”), then there could be good things coming Houston’s way.

They have elite options at every offensive position, and are backed by a consistently improving defense.

Verdict: Wild Card (Finally)

Tennessee Titans

When you lose Albert Haynesworth, there’s bound to be a drop-off.

Teams will be able to key in on their running game, as Kerry Collins isn’t the most difficult quarterback to game-plan against.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Jacksonville Jaguars

Letting go of Fred Taylor was a bolder move than you’d think. Maurice Jones-Drew can handle the starting gig-that’s not the problem.

But after seeing their offensive line depth (or lack thereof) exposed, they’re now risking the same thing happening to their running back corps.

And as for those receivers; do you really think Torry Holt can rescue them in one season?

Verdict: Cellar

San Diego Chargers

A healthy group of offensive weapons, as well as a revitalized Shawne Merriman, could realistically place this team right back where they left off in 2007.

They’re still one of the most talented teams in the league, so the rest falls on Norv Turner.

Verdict: Division Winner

Denver Broncos

I, unlike many others, actually believe in Kyle Orton. He put up solid numbers last season, despite being hurt and not having many elite weapons.

Now he’s walking in with a good running scheme, as well as Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, and Tony Scheffler as top targets.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Oakland Raiders

I’m not buying that JaMarcus Russell can progress enough to stave off the veteran, Jeff Garcia.

Garcia is old, but he brings accuracy, leadership, and poise. The Raiders will win at least five games if Garcia is starting.

Darren McFadden stepping into the starting role can only help their chances.

Verdict: Not Even Close

Kansas City Chiefs

I’m on the Matt Cassel bandwagon, but not necessarily for 2009. He has new weapons, a new environment, and it will take time to adjust.

Larry Johnson remains a huge question mark, as does this defense.

Can they improve on their league-low 10 sacks? God, I hope so.

Verdict: Dead Last

NFC

Philadelphia Eagles

As long as cancer-stricken defensive coordinator Jim Johnson hangs around, their defense will be right near the top again.

New weapons Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy won’t be starting, but will eventually find ways to make an impact.

Verdict: Division Winner

Dallas Cowboys

If Roy Williams can step-up, we shouldn’t see any drop-off in Tony Romo’s production.

And if Dallas does what everyone knows it needs to in order to win (run the ball), then they have a shot at the division, too.

Verdict: Wild Card

New York Giants

Eli Manning doesn’t have a dependable target-yet. This could make him grow, or make him squirm.

Losing Derrick Ward could hurt a lot if Brandon Jacobs goes down at all again.

Overall, they still have a very good team. However, the NFC East is brutal, and their tough schedule on the outside of it will wear them out.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Washington Redskins

They showed glimpses of true talent and a desire to win, but they’re not there yet.

Unfortunately, that will mean Jim Zorn will be gone, and the franchise will look to move on from Jason Campbell.

Verdict: Bottom of the Barrel

Green Bay Packers

Even if Brett Favre comes back, the Packers still have a very good shot at taking over this division.

It’s going to be a hard fight throughout the season, but their defense should improve enough to help them get to 10-6, which will be good enough to win the North.

Verdict: Division Winner

Chicago Bears

Jay Cutler will have to adjust, just like Matt Cassel, and it may be even more difficult, considering his limited receiving options.

That chemistry and development will take time. Their defense will keep them above .500, but there are too many other teams with better core groups.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Minnesota Vikings

I don’t care if they won their division last year. The Packers won it in 2007, but I didn’t see them winning it in 2008, did you?

Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback.

The Vikings are solid all across the board, but there’s little-to-no faith in either one of their current signal callers. If Favre jumps aboard, they have a shot at the division.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Detroit Lions

Matthew Stafford will play eventually, but the odds are Culpepper plays the first few games. Once the Lions are 0-5 again, management will have nothing to lose, and they’ll plop the rookie in.

There needs to be a lot of improvement throughout the entire team just to win 2-3 games next season.

Verdict: Cellar

New Orleans Saints

There is a common theme in the NFC South: whatever team finishes last this year, finishes first the next. So far, so food.

The Saints definitely have the offense to match-up with any team, but what about their defense? Common upgrades at each position should have them competing at a high level on both sides of the ball.

Verdict: Division Winner

Atlanta Falcons

While many feel the Falcons will fall in Matt Ryan’s second try, I think they’ll only get better.

With the addition of future Hall of Famer tight end, Tony Gonzalez, as well as improvement from Roddy White and Michael Jenkins, this offense can only get better.

Verdict: Wild Card

Carolina Panthers

It’s back to mediocrity after we saw a taste of what the Panthers can do. The only problem is, their defense is only average, and they have an extremely tough schedule.

Is Julius Pepper staying or going? Consider he’s the glue holding that average defense together, that may be the make-or-break question.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

They don’t have a quarterback, and they’re starting over, almost completely.

I like their offense with Derrick Ward, Antonio Bryant, and Kellen Winslow, but that won’t be enough.

Telling Jeff Garcia to take a hike was a mistake.

Verdict: Cellar

Arizona Cardinals

Arizona won’t have any lingering effects from their Super Bowl loss. They know better than that.

They’re aware that they were an average team going into the post-season, so they are already concentrating on simply getting better.

They retained Warner, got rid of Edgerrin James, and now all that’s left is to resolve the Anquan Boldin situation. If they can do that, they have this division. They probably have it, anyways.

Verdict: Division Winner

Seattle Seahawks

This time around, no more tears, Seattle.

(Name the boy-band!)

Matt Hasselbeck should return to form, or at least close to it, and they should actually have some healthy/productive receivers this season.

There are still question marks on their offensive line and with their running game. They can get back to 7-9 or 8-8, but probably won’t compete for the division.

Verdict: Just Miss Out

San Francisco 49ers

Mike Singletary has the right idea. Defense wins championships. Hell, he should know.

However, he’s actually building a solid offense. Now, about that quarterback thing…

Verdict: Stuck in Mediocrity

St. Louis Rams

No, they won’t be this year’s Miami Dolphins.

Marc Bulger may have Chad Pennington’s No. 10, but he just isn’t what he used to be.

For me, it’s as simple as that. If Bulger starts, the Rams lose.

Summary

The AFC representatives for the NFL Playoffs will be:

Patriots

Jets

Steelers

Colts

Texans

Chargers

As for the NFC…

Eagles

Cowboys

Packers

Saints

Falcons

Cardinals

And the Super Bowl?

The Eagles will push past Green Bay and Arizona in the playoffs to meet up with the Patriots, where Randy Moss will finally get that elusive ring.

Can McNabb Lead Another Late Run?