When asked if he would announce Roethlisberger’s suspension Monday or Tursday, Goodell did not give a decisive answer, saying, “There may be plenty of reports. I make the decision when I’m prepared to do so”.

Goodell was also asked if there was a violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy by Roethlisberger, to which Goodell responded, “Yes, there has been a violation of that. The issue is respect to a pattern of behavior [and] bad judgments”.

Goodell stated that he still needed more time to review all the facts before he could come to a conclusion on Roethlisberger’s punishment. Stay tuned.

The latest addition to the Redskins coaching makeover comes as a surprise, as the former Tulane star has been a part of the Steeler organization for fourteen years. He is one of only two assistants to be a member of the coaching staffs that saw three Super Bowls: XXX, XL, and XLIII.

Pittsburgh has been known for their success at the linebacker position over the years, sending at least one to 39 of the 57 Pro Bowls that have been played.

During Spanos’ tenure, he has coached a number of memorable linebackers. Players such as Greg Lloyd, Levon Kirkland, Kevin Greene, Chad Brown, Jason Gildon, Clark Haggans, Joey Porter, and most recently, James Harrison.

With Jim Haslett in as the Redskins’ new defensive coordinator, the team will more than likely switch to a 3-4 defense, something Spanos is very comfortable with.

What does this mean for Washington fans? Well, a number of things.

First, rookie Brian Orakpo had a standout year with 50 tackles and 11 sacks. A large majority of sack leaders in the past decade have done so in a 3-4 system, so expect Orakpo to continue on his way to becoming a Pro Bowl linebacker.

Also, while London Fletcher is the starting Mike linebacker, it’s safe to assume that H.B. Blades or Chris Wilson will fulfill the second middle position. That is, unless the Redskins acquire a better option in free agency or the draft (Rolando McClain?).

Even though he has spent a year in rehab, you couldn’t ask for a better anchor on a three-man line than Albert Haynesworth. He is big enough to fill the gaps and has a collection of moves to provide a marginal pass rush.

Washington is a team heavy with linemen and light on linebackers, but I expect that Spanos has the ability to turn mediocre players into role-players.

The Redskins also hope to bulk up their run game with the hiring of former Denver running backs coach Bobby Turner. His experience in Shanahan’s run-first, throw-second philosophy will do wonders for a struggling rush attack headed up by an aging Clinton Portis.

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.

We can safely assume Joe Montana is at the top of this list, if not the easy-call to be the best clutch performer to ever hit an NFL field.

But, as periods change and times goes on, people lose their sight on relevance, and it begins to get increasingly more difficult to truly compare people.

This rings especially true for quarterbacks, as they are often lifted up or held down by their offensive systems, good or bad defenses, and their supporting casts.

Stats don’t always tell the whole story either, but sometimes that’s really all we have to go by. That is, unless you were there for some of those heroic moments delivered by the Fran Tarkenton’s, Terry Bradshaw’s, John Elway’s, and even Brett Favre.

But let’s keep it relevant, at least, as much as possible.

With Favre still retired, here’s a look at the top five active quarterbacks who you’d want running your two-minute drill, throwing that last pass, and ultimately leading your team into every game.

Look for the usuals to make the list, but especially keep your eye out for a surprise or two.

Honorable Mentions: Matt Hasselbeck (Seattle Seahawks)

Hasselbeck has registered 57 wins as a starter in the regular season, and played a big hand in bringing the once lowly Seattle Seahawks to a competitive level.

In eight seasons as the starter, Hasselbeck as racked up over 23,000 passing yards, 145 touchdowns, and has led Seattle to four postseason trips, including a Super Bowl loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2005.

Other Notable Semi-Clutch Passers

Jake Delhomme (Carolina Panthers)

Philip Rivers (San Diego Chargers)

Drew Brees (New Orleans Saints)

Delhomme has been to a Super Bowl and the playoffs several times, Rivers hasn’t won much, but is a clutch performer, and Brees is a great performer with a trip to the NFC Championship and three career postseason trips under his belt.

5. Donovan McNabb (Philadelphia Eagles)

Despite nagging injuries and not always having elite receiving weapons (save for one good year of T.O.) McNabb has had to make a lot out of nothing, and much too often.

Sure, he’s almost always had Brian Westbrook, a stout offensive line, and a supportive defense, but he’s still won more games by himself than he has by leaning on his teammates.

McNabb has reached one Super Bowl and helped the Eagles appear in five NFC championship games in his career.

Really, when you think of McNabb, all you need to think of is the 4th and 26 play that helped beat Green Bay and put the Eagles in the NFC Championship back in 2003.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 194

INT: 90

YDS: 29,320

Regular Season Wins: 82

Postseason Wins: 9

Best Season: 13-2 (Super Bowl Appearance)

4. Kurt Warner (Arizona Cardinals)

While he’s probably better known for a three-year run of two Super Bowl appearances (one win) and a sick display of offensive production in St. Louis, Warner has had enough moments in Arizona to keep his “clutch-ness” relevant.

Warner had a righteous time in St. Louis, losing only eight regular season games in his first three seasons, while throwing for over 36 touchdowns and over 4,000 yards in two of those three seasons.

With three Super Bowl appearances and his insane accuracy in tight moments, including a game-changing touchdown pass to Larry Fitzgerald in 2008′s Super Bowl loss, Warner deserves a place on this list.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 182

INT: 114

YDS: 28,591

Regular Season Wins: 57

Postseason Wins: 8

Best Season: 13-3 (Super Bowl Champions)

3. Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts)

Manning has a rocket arm and lightning quick release, and is known as one of the most efficient, cerebral players in the league.

He’s a student of the game, as he practices and studies by himself and with his receivers constantly, even during the off-season, as to keep timing and chemistry at it’s highest possible level.

While he has the tools, smarts, and dedication to deserve to make this list, he also has the stats, experience, and wins.

Manning is slowly climbing up the ladder in almost every major passing category, and will either eclipse Brett Favre’s final numbers, or finish second behind him in most of the major passing categories.

After being regarded as “another Dan Marino”, an elite quarterback who can put up numbers but couldn’t win games, Manning finally separated himself from the Marino’s of the world, and won his first Super Bowl in 2006.

After starting his career in the postseason with a lackluster 0-3 record, Manning has since carved a niche for himself as one of the more prepared and clutch performers, leading Indianapolis to a solid 7-5 post-season record.

Throw in his 117-59 regular season record, as well as over 30 fourth quarter comeback victories, and you’ve got a guy who knows how to win.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 333

INT: 165

YDS: 45,628

Regular Season Wins: 117

Postseason Wins: 7

Best Season: 12-4 (Super Bowl Champions)

2. Ben Roethlisberger (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Big Ben is a household name, especially after his heroics in 2008′s Super Bowl win. If he wasn’t famous before that night, he surely is now.

Chalk it up.

Two Super Bowl titles, and a slew of regular season wins. 51, to be exact.

In just five seasons, Roethlisberger has helped the Steelers eclipse 50 regular season wins, including going 13-0 as a rookie, and 22-3 in his first 25 starts.

Talk about a first impression.

Roethlisberger was so clutch and effective, that his team was able to be competitive right away in 2004, and then re-grouped to win his first Super Bowl in 2005.

With an 8-2 career record in the post-season, as well as his “money” late-game winning touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes in last year’s Super Bowl, Big Ben easily makes his way on this list.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 101

INT: 69

YDS: 14,974

Regular Season Wins: 51

Postseason Wins: 8

Best Season: 12-4 (Super Bowl Champions)

1. Tom Brady (New England Patriots)

Brady is quite arguably the most effective clutch performer, as he was 3-3 in Super Bowl clutch moments until the New York Giants front line crushed his hopes of winning a fourth championship.

Still, there are few other quarterbacks, even in the NFL’s history, that you’d want guiding your team with under two minutes to go.

Brady has an impressive 87-24 regular season record, while guiding the Patriots to six seasons of 10-6 or better, including the NFL’s only undefeated season, as New England went 16-0, and 18-0 until they lost 2007′s Super Bowl.

Brady’s worst season as a starter came in 2002, where he and the Patriots could only finish 9-7. What’s most impressive, however, is that’s the worst record he has ever had as a starter.

With a 14-3 postseason record, several comeback wins, and three Lombardi Trophies to his credit, Brady, knee injury or not, is still the guy the majority of teams would want behind center when all the chips are on the line.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 197

INT: 86

YDS: 26,446

Regular Season Wins: 87

Postseason Wins: 14

Best Season: 18-1 (Super Bowl Appearance)

6. The Wild Card: Eli Manning (New York Giants)

Personally, I’m not sold on Manning as an elite passer, but his numbers (not fantasy-wise) are fairly consistent, and he appears to be a good leader, and most importantly, knows how to win.

His career will likely forever be defined for his 2007 run and win against the 18-0 New England Patriots.

However, he doesn’t make the cut for the top five, due to the extraordinary help he got from his extremely aggressive defense that year.

Besides, when he had Plaxico Burress to throw to, too.

The other thing to note is that he and the Giants went 4-0 during that run, and Manning hadn’t won a playoff game before, and hasn’t since.

Still, Manning delivered clutch performance-after-clutch performance in 2007, and has since cemented himself as one of the better, and more complete young quarterbacks in the NFL.

The Numbers (Career):

TD: 98

INT: 74

YDS: 14,623

Regular Season Wins: 42

Postseason Wins: 4

Best Season: 10-6 (Super Bowl Champions)

Knee injury or not, Brady is still the man.

It’s the first day of June, which means all of those premature NFL power rankings and fantasy football rankings are no longer, well, quite as premature.

While everyone (including myself) is discussing LeBron James and his handshake phobia, the Magic and the Lakers, or Bruno’s fall into Eminem’s lap, I’ve decided to take that free fall dive into the loving arms of fantasy football.

And yes, the fantasy realm loves me back.

However, let’s pace ourselves. After all, it is in fact the first month of summer (first day, no less), and we don’t want to generate pre-football heart attacks.

I mean, Brett Favre hasn’t even made up his mind yet, so why should the rest of us be getting antsy?

Regardless, here is a team-by-team look at all 32 starting quarterbacks, their weapons, offenses, and how they may destroy or enhance your team.

Still worried about Favre’s final decision, camp battles, or injuries? I’ll do my best to fill you in, allowing you an early look at which quarterbacks may be the best bets, which could be potential sleepers, and which ones you should stay away from.

Tom Brady—New England Patriots

Matt Cassel is in Kansas City, and Brady is back in camp, meaning two things.

You have nothing to worry about, and you have nothing to worry about.

Brady has looked sharp in limited practice, and still has the same awesome weapons he had in 2007 during his 50-touchdown season. This list isn’t a ranking, but if it were, I’d have Brady at the top.

Verdict: If you can get him in the second round, you’re already winning.

Proj: 4,090 yards, 35 TD, 13 INT

Mark Sanchez—New York Jets

Don’t buy the Kellen Clemens hype (not that there actually is any).

For better or worse, Sanchez will begin the new Joe Namath era.

It won’t be as sexy or productive as either of Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco’s seasons last year, but I wouldn’t be shocked if the Jets reached the playoffs.

Verdict: Not yet an option for FF

Proj: 2,400 yards, 16 TD, 17 INT

Trent Edwards—Buffalo Bills

I like the addition of Owens, but not the loss of Marshawn Lynch to start the season.

Edwards isn’t as bad as people think, and now he has a sound offense around him. He’s a borderline top-15 quarterback, and depending on how he looks in pre-season, could crack that barrier quite easily.

Verdict: Sleeper

Proj: 3,555 yards, 26 TD, 14 INT

Chad Pennington—Miami Dolphins

This is probably Pennington’s last hurrah with Miami, and something tells me the exciting juice that this offense had last season has all but dried up.

Pennington still doesn’t have enticing options, and he’s got two quarterbacks breathing down his neck.

He’ll be serviceable to start the season, but you won’t claim your league’s championship if he’s your starter.

Verdict: He’s a stop-gap

Proj: 3,100 yards, 17 TD, 14 INT

Ben Roethlisberger—Pittsburgh Steelers

If he endures a Super Bowl hang-over, we could see some bad numbers.

Because, as we’ve learned, the less Big Ben throws, the better he is.

He’s still a fantasy quarterback with solid weapons around him, so don’t be afraid to snatch him up.

Verdict: Serviceable

Proj: 3,470 yards, 23 TD, 18 INT

Brady Quinn—Cleveland Browns

Personally, I think Derek Anderson has the better arm and size, but Braylon Edwards favors Quinn, and the organization is more likely to run with the young, more familiar face.

Quinn is actually a good, young quarterback, and I’m not sure why Eric Mangini isn’t higher on him.

Regardless, aside from Braylon “Mr. Drop” Edwards, Quinn has no weapons.

Verdict: Things could get ugly

Proj: 2,899 yards, 20 TD, 20 INT

Carson Palmer—Cincinnati Bengals

He was awful last season, going 0-4 before bowing out with an arm injury.

However, his weapons are still potentially elite, and if he can return to form, could easily put up numbers that will have you kicking yourself for passing him up in the fourth round.

Verdict: Possibly ends the season as a top-5 passer

Proj: 3,884 yards, 27 TD, 17 INT

Joe Flacco—Baltimore Ravens

Flacco proved to be a capable game-manager, and has reportedly looked good over the offseason.

However, the Ravens are likely to base their offense around the run, and Flacco doesn’t have superstar options surrounding him.

Verdict: See Chad Pennington

Proj: 3,335 yards, 18 TD, 16 INT

Vince Young—Tennessee Titans

Call me crazy, but I don’t see Kerry Collins finishing the first half of the season as the starter.

He’s up there in age, which makes a regression or an injury extremely likely, and if things aren’t going well, he’ll be benched rather quickly.

Young may not have a cloudless head on his shoulders, but he still can make things happen with his feet.

Verdict: Young might surprise some people

Proj: 2,467 yards, 15 TD, 13 INT, 430 r yards, 4 TD

Peyton Manning—Indianapolis Colts

Manning loses Marvin Harrison, Tony Dungy, and two other important assistant coaches.

That doesn’t mean he’ll suddenly lose his touch, but there’s only so much Anthony Gonzales and Austin Collie can make up for.

Verdict: Draft him below Tom Brady, for sure this time

Proj: 4,300 yards, 33 TD, 19 INT

David Garrard—Jacksonville Jaguars

He lost Matt Jones, but gained Torry Holt.

Something tells me Garrard won’t really notice.

Jacksonville’s offense is all about grinding it out, but they were forced to put the ball in the air more last year because of an atrocious offensive line.

Verdict: A better line means Garrard is good again

Proj: 3,090 yards, 20 TD, 12 INT, 260 r yards, 3 TD

Matt Schaub—Houston Texans

Schaub has too many weapons to fail. The only problem is, he needs to stay on the field.

If he can play even 13 games, he’ll put up huge numbers, while leaving everyone guessing, yet again, what he’d do if he played a full season.

Still, with Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, Steve Slaton, and Owen Daniels, the future looks good for Schaub.

Verdict: He can lead your team to a title

Proj: 3,800 yards, 25 TD, 16 INT

Philip Rivers—San Diego Chargers

If Rivers’ defense can back him up, unlike in 2008, he could easily approach last year’s numbers, and possibly even surpass them.

With a healthy Antonio Gates and LT, Rivers is more confident than ever.

Verdict: Draft him like he’s Tom Brady

Proj: 4,270 yards, 30 TD, 16 INT

Jeff Garcia—Oakland Raiders

I just don’t see the JaMarcus Russell experiment lasting more than three or four losses in 2009, and wouldn’t be shocked to see him benched in the pre-season.

As long as Garcia wins a few games, Al Davis will let him start. After all, he brought him in for a reason.

Verdict: Nobody in Oakland is worth your while

Proj: 2,300 yards, 15 TD, 9 INT

Matt Cassel—Kansas City Chiefs

Cassel is in a new place with a huge drop-off as far as offensive weapons. He still has good experience from last season, combined with his solid arm and good athleticism.

However, we’ll all be left wondering what could have been, had Tony Gonzalez not been traded to Atlanta.

Verdict: Stay away in year one

Proj: 3,700 yards, 22 TD, 23 INT

Kyle Orton—Denver Broncos

Orton was putting together a solid season in Chicago before hurting his ankle. Once he came back, he played admirably through injury, and didn’t have the best options out there.

In Denver, he’ll have a friendlier offensive line and system, as well as excellent receiving options.

Verdict: Orton could make the leap to elite

Proj: 3,600 yards, 24 TD, 16 INT

The NFC Edition will be made available, depending on the reads/comments for this article. Thanks for reading, and for those basketball enthusiasts, check out my NBA blog: www.robertsroundballreport.com

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?