Nfl-Most up n' coming team / Future #1 powerhouse

Which team is the most up and coming team in the NFL and could IYO could they become the (or one of) the best?
The answer IMO - The San Diego Chargers :yo:

Yes, I'm a die-hard fan and admittedly homerish but I think the argument is legitimate. I think they have a very real opportunity to become the best team in the NFL and here's why:
1. The team is loaded with young talent at all positions and has the best running back in game in LT - he will be coming into his prime very soon and is locked up for I believe the next 6 years. Add to this he is now (thank god) running behind an already very good offensive line and one that is fairly young (Olivea and Fonoti are two of the very good young o-line men in the league. Olivea was the best late-round pick in the draft last year and if Fonoti reaches his potential -HUGE- he will eat up multiple pass-rushers inside with ease and LT will follow that massive derriere for big gains) and will get even better (particularly if Courtney VanBuren can regain his form after injury). Alex Barron or Khalif Barnes as strong OT prospects could figure into this year's draft as well depending on how things shake down

2. This team scores points in quantity now and it's a sum of many parts. Everyone whos in the know knows that Drew Brees didn't have an epiphany last year - it was all about a functional o-line for ONCE and accordingly his having time and receivers who caught balls. Antonio Gates is already the best receiving TE in the game and will be signed to a long-term contract in the near future, get ready for Kellen Winslow all over again :D . I am convinced they will use of one of 12 or 28 this year to pick up a speed-demon WR and the ability to stretch the defence while having the opposition need to account for Gates and LT will make this offense DOWNRIGHT DEADLY in the near future. Already in the stable is Kassim Osgood, an x-factor of sorts who is very big with good hands and speed and may become that downfield threat - the saying "pick your poison" comes to mind :D

3. This defence ROCKS and will only get better as it also mostly young and versatile. Already arguably the best against the run (due to our excellent linebacker corps - Edwards (God, simply put - my fave player in the NFL), Foley, Leber, Godfrey, Phillips (phenomenal upside and potential) and Jamal Williams (amazing NT) and the rest of the D-line). Again, all who are in the know know that our secondary is not as bad as they would appear at time because of a lack of a consistent pass rush but you can bet (particularly if the Bolts take Marcus Spears at #12 as I believe they will) that that will be addressed in the near future and Dave Ball will be back healthy next year and Igor Olshanksy, well, what can I say.. he already throws OTs around stuffing the run and with his diligent work ethic he is a certainty to become a better pass rusher. In short, their pass rush is a priority work in progress and you will see the difference in the secondary. IMO Jerry Wilson is the only weak link and he is likely to be replace this year by one of Clinton Hart, Bhawoh Jue or Hanik Milligan. I think it will be Hart. An extremely promising defence and one that should soon be among the best in Total defence

4. And then the ALL IMPORTANT intangible - one of Phillip Rivers or Drew Brees will be moved before the end of next year and either is going to command some considerable compensation. I firmly believe either will be very capable in running the offence behind a strong O-line and with a choice of weapons and the NFL's most other-worldly RB, but I'm sure some will argue that Rivers hasn't proven himself. Trust me, he will if given the opp. -he has all the tools and the right head! No doubt this package will be tailored by AJ Smith to address the needs that become apparent to put this team over the top, I think it will likely be a 1st rounder and 1/2 starters. To ice the cake, add this reality to an already extremely good and talented football team and I honestly believe you may see the Chargers become the team to beat in the NFL... and man, I have been waiting A LONG, LONG TIME for my day in the Sun! :banana:

I know there are going to be many good and quality arguments to the contrary and that should make for a good thread, so let's enjoy!

until they're beaten in the postseason, its easily the Patriots ... they beat the League MVP pretty handily this past postseason, so who is to think they won't be absolutely dominant until Coach Bill Belichick retires

until they're beaten in the postseason, its easily the Patriots ... they beat the League MVP pretty handily this past postseason, so who is to think they won't be absolutely dominant until Coach Bill Belichick retires
Agreed there no doubt - but I'm thinking more along the lines of a team developing in the near future to be able to overtake the pats as the league's best - I'm looking for more of a 1-however many years down the road type of perspective, but your input is legitimate and appreciated :handclap:

San Diego's fortunes depend on the QB. I would keep Brees if I was them. He has a great rapport with Gates, who is dominant and will be so for a long time. Given how well they've done recently, they'd be insane to bet the future on Rivers. We've seen numerous great college QB's do nothing in the NFL. There's no reason to suggest this can't happen to Rivers.

Congrats on sticking it out with the Chargers. I'm an Eagles fan. The last four seasons have been an emotional roller coaster.

The Chargers definately aren't looking bad for the next 3-4 years. However, if Brees stinks it up, then it's back to square one.

The Lions have potential if they can get a decent Quarterback. The Jags aren't looking bad either. If Losman can produce quickly, then the Bills have a shot. The imperative word being "quickly", since who knows how long they can keep the team together before having to deal with cap issues.

I'd definitely say they have some upside and potential. But they could also fold in a heartbeat. No one outside of LT is really established. For all you know Brees is the second coming of Majik Makowski.

And RB's have a way of disappearing off the landscape really quickly. They just take such a beating.

Now, I'm not dogging you. If I were a Charger fan, I'd be looking up too. But I wouldn't be worrying about #1 overall. You might want to win just 1 playoff game first.

I'd definitely say they have some upside and potential. But they could also fold in a heartbeat. No one outside of LT is really established. For all you know Brees is the second coming of Majik Makowski.

And RB's have a way of disappearing off the landscape really quickly. They just take such a beating.

Now, I'm not dogging you. If I were a Charger fan, I'd be looking up too. But I wouldn't be worrying about #1 overall. You might want to win just 1 playoff game first.

I agree, you make some good arguments Raven25, but there is still a long way to go for that team. The Eagles learned the hard way that you need bonafide receivers to really win and I'm still not convinced that SD has the guys there to get the job done.

Now, I'm not dogging you. If I were a Charger fan, I'd be looking up too. But I wouldn't be worrying about #1 overall. You might want to win just 1 playoff game first.
Fair enough, although we were a routine 40 yrder away from doing that but yes that's irrelevant

And by the way, even as a Leafs fan I love your avatar :biglaugh:

While I think SD will be good for a number of years to come, the team I think in the near future that could be really good is the Bengals. As a Patriots fan, they impressed the hell of last year, I expected Palmar and co. to roll over a die when the Pats "D" went after them - instead they were composed and handled the pressure very well. I won't go into the same detail as Raven25 did about SD, but they have the nessecary ingrediants to be successful;

1) Excellent coaching
2) A good young QB who might be great
3) There offense is already very good with a strong running game and very talented WR's and TE. (10th in scoring offense)
4) A good OL (allowed 31 sacks - 7th best in the NFL and had over 1800 yards rushing)

Now the defense does need some work, you're not going to win many titles allowing over 23 ppg. If they can get some help defensively, this could be a very good time for the next 5 years (like everybody, pending injury and FA's)

The Chargers definately aren't looking bad for the next 3-4 years. However, if Brees stinks it up, then it's back to square one.

The Lions have potential if they can get a decent Quarterback. The Jags aren't looking bad either. If Losman can produce quickly, then the Bills have a shot. The imperative word being "quickly", since who knows how long they can keep the team together before having to deal with cap issues.

Even if Brees is just average this season, there is no reason the Chargers can't be competitive again.....they just don't have many glaring weaknesses and with 2 1st's in the draft this year, they will be able to add to the young nucleus they already have in place

This is it for Harrington.....everything is in place for the Lions to make a run for a playoff spot this year, and if he doesn't do it this year, then he's done in LionLand......The Lions have solid to above average depth at most postitions, and if they can have one more good draft, this might be the year they finally make a playoff push.......

Jags have a good future with the defence they have. Great young QB in Leftwich, all they need is help on the O-line, and a #1 receiver after Smith retires (I fully don't belive that Reggie Williams will be a star in this league.)

IMO The Panthers are also in contention here, but it also depends, a little, on which players will be selected in the upcoming draft.

QB: Delhomme is a very fine player
RB: The Cats have Davis (if healthy), Foster & Goings. Three possible starters, who are good for 1000+x yards each season.
WR: Smith is coming back & they got Colbert coming in for his second NFL season. I expect Colbert to be the leading receiver in Carolina over the next few seasons.
D: The defense around Peppers, Rucker, Jenkins & Buckner is one of the better units in the NFL.

Even if Brees is just average this season, there is no reason the Chargers can't be competitive again.....they just don't have many glaring weaknesses and with 2 1st's in the draft this year, they will be able to add to the young nucleus they already have in place
I don't think that's fair to say. Brees had an outstanding season last year. 27 touchdowns to 7 interceptions is very very impressive. If he goes back to being average (say 21 touchdowns, 16 interceptions), it will cost the Chargers a few games. Sure, they wouldn't be as terrible as they were 3 or 4 years back, but in a competitive AFC they'd run the risk of missing the post-season.

The Saskatchewan Rough Riders

I am not so sold on the Chargers. Brees could very well be a 1-year-wonder and drop back down to his typical (and quite ordinary) production. Who knows what Rivers will do.

LT is a stud, no problem there. Depth may be a concern because Chatman is a relative unknown.

WR situation stinks. Sorry, no other way to describe it. MCCardell was added for more pop, but he didn't contribute much and is at the age where retirement is more likely than a rebound. After that, it is downright ugly. Thank gawd Gates is a stud, of the Chargers would have trouble catching a cold.

Offensive line is decent. Not a KC-esque powerhouse, but solid.

Defensive line is decent. Bit short on playmakers (even for a 3-4), but not bad.

LBs need work. They break down into two types: the old guys and the not-so-good guys.

DBs are solid and young, so should get even better.

Lets see the Chargers finish with a .500 or better record for two seasons in a row before we load up the bandwagon.

Just to toot my own horn, if you want to look at a team stacking up to do some damage, check out the Vikings lately. If they can add another starting WR (and they could get one in the draft), they look damn good.

Buffalo.

Once Losman gets in the groove of the NFL, the offense will be formidable. McGahee is only going to get better. Moulds and Evans are both great targets. With some O-Line improvement and a tight end that is a constant threat, added on to a top of the line defense and the best special teams unit in the league, watch the **** out for this team.

I like the Lions .. only if they can get a real stud as a QB they could turn the tide !

texans and jags

I like the Lions .. only if they can get a real stud as a QB they could turn the tide !
If Joey cant do it this year, he is done. I would say about 50% of the fans are still behind him. And im being kind. He needs to have a serious improvement, considering the improvement in the team around him.

I am not so sold on the Chargers. Brees could very well be a 1-year-wonder and drop back down to his typical (and quite ordinary) production. Who knows what Rivers will do.

LT is a stud, no problem there. Depth may be a concern because Chatman is a relative unknown.

WR situation stinks. Sorry, no other way to describe it. MCCardell was added for more pop, but he didn't contribute much and is at the age where retirement is more likely than a rebound. After that, it is downright ugly. Thank gawd Gates is a stud, of the Chargers would have trouble catching a cold.

Offensive line is decent. Not a KC-esque powerhouse, but solid.

Defensive line is decent. Bit short on playmakers (even for a 3-4), but not bad.

LBs need work. They break down into two types: the old guys and the not-so-good guys.

DBs are solid and young, so should get even better.

Lets see the Chargers finish with a .500 or better record for two seasons in a row before we load up the bandwagon.

Just wait for the draft.....WR, Rush LB/DE, OT.....WR's aren't as bad as you think......

Just wait for the draft.....WR, Rush LB/DE, OT.....WR's aren't as bad as you think......

I bet dollars to donuts we get a WR in the first round. Just a matter of Edwards or Williams at 7 or Williamson or Clayton at 18.

Other pick goes to D.Johnson or a DE I bet.

OT, I think we are set. McKinnie, Rosenthal, Dorsey. Need an OG to replace Dixon, though I think that is a luxary since Dixon wants to play for the Vikes again next year and was darn good last season.

I bet we go safety sometime Day One.

IMO The Panthers are also in contention here, but it also depends, a little, on which players will be selected in the upcoming draft.

QB: Delhomme is a very fine player
RB: The Cats have Davis (if healthy), Foster & Goings. Three possible starters, who are good for 1000+x yards each season.
WR: Smith is coming back & they got Colbert coming in for his second NFL season. I expect Colbert to be the leading receiver in Carolina over the next few seasons.
D: The defense around Peppers, Rucker, Jenkins & Buckner is one of the better units in the NFL.

They better get a new doctor to give them the juice.

I'll go with the Jags...they have all the tools, need to get some D to help Stroud and Big John.

I'll go with the Jags...they have all the tools, need to get some D to help Stroud and Big John.
D-Line is very good. Hayward was signed as DE (Wiley too :shakehead ). I believe the Jags will draft a CB in the first round, seeing as they cut Bolden and Washington (good moves), and signed Cousin as a nickelback.

I immediately thought of the Lions and the Chargers here. The Lions have ALOT of young and dangerous weapons on offense and I believe they will be a team to reckon with if they get steady progress at the QB position and a bit of improvement on defense. The Chargers could go either way in my opinion. Either last season was a tremendous fluke and this draft will just serve to continue a rebuilding effort, or they played up to their abilities this season and this draft will serve to bolster an already solid club.

I can also see JCD's point on the future of the Vikings, although I want to wait and see how they can replace Moss and if their is a production falloff this season. A couple of other teams that seem to have a nice future are the Houston Texans who will be very nice with improvement at RB and of defense, and the Atlanta Falcolns with an improvement in their ariel attack and with their defense.

To include my homer opinion, I also think that the New York Giants have a solid foundation for the future, finally. Our main concerns in upcoming seasons will be to find replacements for aging players at DE, RB, and OT but we have a good collection of younger players at other spots and the increase in cap room will allow the team to get creative at those positions of need. This offseason we have seen the Giants land 3 top UFA's who also happen to be very young in age. Plaxico Burress could turn the recieving corps into a strength at the age of 28. Kareem Mckenzie(26) is one of the more dominating RT's in the NFL and will allow youngster David Deihl to move inside to his natural guard position. And Antonio Pierce(25) was nominated the Redskin's defensive MVP last season at the linebacker spot, by teammate Lavar Arrington. Add these young improvements to a VERY successfull draft last year and the Giants have a very nice core of young playmakers. Of course the key to the Giants rise towards excellence will be when Elisha N. Manning develops into the franchise quarterback that we all expect him to become.

Texans and Cowboys

I bet dollars to donuts we get a WR in the first round. Just a matter of Edwards or Williams at 7 or Williamson or Clayton at 18.

Other pick goes to D.Johnson or a DE I bet.

OT, I think we are set. McKinnie, Rosenthal, Dorsey. Need an OG to replace Dixon, though I think that is a luxary since Dixon wants to play for the Vikes again next year and was darn good last season.

I bet we go safety sometime Day One.

I think the Chargers and Vikes both would like to get a WR and DE in the first round with their picks......If one of the big three(Williams, Williamson or Edwards) makes it to SD, I bet they take him, or else they will go for DJ, Merriman or Spears.....with the other first, maybe Roddy White, or Clayton, or maybe Shaun Cody, Roth, D.Cody, Tuck....or a LB like Blackstock or Burnett.........

To include my homer opinion, I also think that the New York Giants have a solid foundation for the future, finally. Our main concerns in upcoming seasons will be to find replacements for aging players at DE, RB, and OT but we have a good collection of younger players at other spots and the increase in cap room will allow the team to get creative at those positions of need. This offseason we have seen the Giants land 3 top UFA's who also happen to be very young in age. Plaxico Burress could turn the recieving corps into a strength at the age of 28. Kareem Mckenzie(26) is one of the more dominating RT's in the NFL and will allow youngster David Deihl to move inside to his natural guard position. And Antonio Pierce(25) was nominated the Redskin's defensive MVP last season at the linebacker spot, by teammate Lavar Arrington. Add these young improvements to a VERY successfull draft last year and the Giants have a very nice core of young playmakers. Of course the key to the Giants rise towards excellence will be when Elisha N. Manning develops into the franchise quarterback that we all expect him to become.
I would of *maybe* considered the Giants as up and comers if they haden't made that awful trade last year. If they had a top-10 pick this draft, they could address another hole with a bluechip. I would consider last years draft a huge question mark solely because of what they gave up for Manning. Wilson and Snee don't make up for it either.

I would of *maybe* considered the Giants as up and comers if they haden't made that awful trade last year. If they had a top-10 pick this draft, they could address another hole with a bluechip. I would consider last years draft a huge question mark solely because of what they gave up for Manning. Wilson and Snee don't make up for it either.
That deal is what probably makes them up and coming in many fans' minds. You don't have the oppurtunity to draft a franchise quarterback often and the popular consensus around the NFL is that Eli is well on his way towards reaching that level. If the Giants dont make that deal they maybe get Sean Taylor with the 5th and than this year they wouldnt have had the available cap room to sign McKenzie, Pierce, and Burress. Those three guys are top 10 pick talents and the G-men would most likely not have had the cap room to pick them up had they not made the trade. Yea, we would have had a top 15 pick in this draft as well but there is no hole on the Giant's roster that would be more significant than that at QB behind the aging and unreliable arm of Kerry Collins. At the moment the Giants don't really have a HUGE hole that they need a top 10 pick for. Of course it would be a nice luxury and I'd probably love to have a new CB or RB but the Giants are pretty solid right now with the FA additions.

My "out-on-a-limb" prediction is that the Giants make the playoffs either this year or next, and they advance atleast one round. Yea, I know this isn't an earth-shattering announcement but I do believe that you will see a much improved Giant's squad.

I think the Chargers and Vikes both would like to get a WR and DE in the first round with their picks......If one of the big three(Williams, Williamson or Edwards) makes it to SD, I bet they take him, or else they will go for DJ, Merriman or Spears.....with the other first, maybe Roddy White, or Clayton, or maybe Shaun Cody, Roth, D.Cody, Tuck....or a LB like Blackstock or Burnett.........

I think the Vikes grab:
-One of the two top WRs
-D. Johnson LB
-One of the big-2 RBs
At 7. As long as at least one QB or CB is taken in the top-6, one will be there. First priority given to the WRs.

At 18, way too many directions to go. WR is a no brainer if one isn't taken at 7. Otherwise, safety or DE make sense.

At this point in time, the Giants would be just as well off with Rivers and Roethlisberger under center. The fact that getting Manning cost them a first rounder can't be considered a good move right now. Maybe in 3-4 years... but definately not right now.

I'll go with the Jags...they have all the tools, need to get some D to help Stroud and Big John.

Got to agree with this, Jax should be very good for the next few years.

WR situation stinks. Sorry, no other way to describe it. MCCardell was added for more pop, but he didn't contribute much and is at the age where retirement is more likely than a rebound. After that, it is downright ugly. Thank gawd Gates is a stud, of the Chargers would have trouble catching a cold.

Disagree entirely there.. the Chargers were moving the ball in the air prolifically before McCardell arrived, and although Gates was the prime beneficiary it was going through Reche Caldwell and Eric Parker very often as well. I've just looked at the receiving yards through weeks 1-4 before Caldwell went down to Atlanta, and the ball was spread around fairly evenly. Caldwell was on his way to his best season as a pro, and I've been reading his rehab is coming along very well and he expects to be back 100% next year. Add to that Kassim Osgood (young, very big and fast with upside) and I disagree it's "downright ugly" after McCardell, who I think provided nicely upon his being acquired and gives us our only veteran presence in the receiving corps. Well, maybe Bobby Shaw too but he saw little to no time last year and he's not a sure thing to be on the roster this coming year.

At this point in time, the Giants would be just as well off with Rivers and Roethlisberger under center. The fact that getting Manning cost them a first rounder can't be considered a good move right now. Maybe in 3-4 years... but definately not right now.
Well I guess we shall see next year. At the moment, most Giants fans are happy with the results of the Manning trade but anything can happen.

If K. Jones and R. Williams don't hit the sophomore slump and don't get injured along with Charles Rogers breaking out, I think Harrington will be fine. Remember Jones and Williams were rookies last year, and we inconsistant until the end. Rogers was suppose to be a great rookie but kept getting injured, so they had I believe Hakim? As their number 1 receiver like 1/4 of the season or something.

Quarterbacks sometimes take time. I hate it when people give up on them in like 2 years. I knew the Chargers were foolish to take Rivers and should have waited to see how Brees was doing in the preseason to really make a rash decision on a quarterback. Hell they could have filled a hole last year and moved down to pick up a WR like Williams but they rushed...

BTW I don't think Minnesota is going to be a powerhouse, I think they might end up being like the Red Sox. They will compete and sneak in as a wild card but will continually dog it in the end.

Their wide receiver position isn't set. I am not sold on the trio of Burleson, Robinson, and Taylor. Out of them Burleson is the youngest. Taylor shows promise but if he bombs, well we got I believe Howry and Campbell if Campbell isn't hit with charges. Robinson I think is close to retirement if he continues to get injured.

Their running back situation isn't settled yet. Moore has shown promise but he might be a flash in the pan? Smith is one puff away from I believe a year suspension and between him and Bennett make one good running back. Bennett also continues to be injury prone and hasn't shown he can be a complete back for an entire season or even half a season save for I believe his rookie year?

Culpepper isn't getting any younger. I mean he's a phenomial quarterback at the peak of his career and I think this is the only thing set for the Vikes.

Line looks okay with Birk, McKenney (if he ever settles down!), and Dorsey but could upgrade.

TEs are fine, I believe might add a replacement with Wiggins getting up there in age.

FB uh?

D-Line looks kind of solid. K Williams and P Williams will jam the middle but a replacement for P Williams should be thought about in a couple years. Udeze needs to show he isn't like Hovan and that he can completely recover from his injuries and be 100%. And he needs a guy opposite of him.

LBs are questionable, promise yes but questionable.

DBs are fine, getting a safety is a must.

KICKER is really needed. Cortez? Anderson? PLEASE...

And a PR/KR would be nice!

Disagree entirely there.. the Chargers were moving the ball in the air prolifically before McCardell arrived, and although Gates was the prime beneficiary it was going through Reche Caldwell and Eric Parker very often as well. I've just looked at the receiving yards through weeks 1-4 before Caldwell went down to Atlanta, and the ball was spread around fairly evenly. Caldwell was on his way to his best season as a pro, and I've been reading his rehab is coming along very well and he expects to be back 100% next year. Add to that Kassim Osgood (young, very big and fast with upside) and I disagree it's "downright ugly" after McCardell, who I think provided nicely upon his being acquired and gives us our only veteran presence in the receiving corps. Well, maybe Bobby Shaw too but he saw little to no time last year and he's not a sure thing to be on the roster this coming year.

Caldwell, Parker, Shaw and Osgood is downright ugly to me. You can get some production by default from them (in the way that Tood Pinkston got yards in Philly), but on most teams those guys would be fighting to be the 3rd or 4th WR. Or even to make the team. In SD, they are fighting to start.

BTW I don't think Minnesota is going to be a powerhouse, I think they might end up being like the Red Sox. They will compete and sneak in as a wild card but will continually dog it in the end.

Have to see. They were able to sneak in as a WC before they added talent this off-season.

Their wide receiver position isn't set. I am not sold on the trio of Burleson, Robinson, and Taylor. Out of them Burleson is the youngest. Taylor shows promise but if he bombs, well we got I believe Howry and Campbell if Campbell isn't hit with charges. Robinson I think is close to retirement if he continues to get injured.

Biggest need on the team. I would wager that another WR is added before the season starts. Right now, it looks weak. Burleson is a nice #2. Robinson a nice #3. Taylor replaced Campbell as the #4. Just need the top guy. Tough player to acquire, but with 2 firsts they have the opportunity to do so. If/when they do, and Campbell avoids the Big House, Vikes have a spread offense with 5 options to choose from. No Big Threat like Moss, but a balanced version.

Their running back situation isn't settled yet. Moore has shown promise but he might be a flash in the pan? Smith is one puff away from I believe a year suspension and between him and Bennett make one good running back. Bennett also continues to be injury prone and hasn't shown he can be a complete back for an entire season or even half a season save for I believe his rookie year?

It was Bennett's second year actually. Vikes have a RunningBackByCommittee system. No legit #1 guy, 4 players who contribute something different. If a stud WR is on the board at 7 (and a stud WR is not), I bet they bite. However, that has as much to do with the future (Bennett, Williams and Smith are FAs next summer) as anything else. Taken as a whole, the Vikes hodge-podge of RBs have put them among the best rushing teams the past 3 years.

Culpepper isn't getting any younger. I mean he's a phenomial quarterback at the peak of his career and I think this is the only thing set for the Vikes.

Culpepper's age is a non-factor. Besides, if Culpepper gets injured for a short time, they have Brad Johnson to step in.

Line looks okay with Birk, McKenney (if he ever settles down!), and Dorsey but could upgrade.

Dorsey is the back-up tackle. Rosnethal returns to start. Depending on how McKinnie develops and who they get to play RG (as long as they get somebody), Vikes have potentially one of the best lines in the NFL.

TEs are fine, I believe might add a replacement with Wiggins getting up there in age.

FB uh?

Vikes play a 2-TE set, so no FB. Wiggins is a short-term answer but should be fine for this year. Perhaps next as well. Vikes have a glut of marginal prospects who might take over his #2 spot (Angulo, Owens), but could also draft a guy.

The more dramatic addition to the TE spot is the return of Kleinsasser. Arguably the best blocking TE in the league and an adept receiver as well.

D-Line looks kind of solid. K Williams and P Williams will jam the middle but a replacement for P Williams should be thought about in a couple years. Udeze needs to show he isn't like Hovan and that he can completely recover from his injuries and be 100%. And he needs a guy opposite of him.

Vikes DL is a true RDE away from being one of the best in the NFL. Pat Williams will make it tough to impossible to double team Kevin Williams. K-Dub is a freak, a Sapp-esque disruptive monster on the inside who is still gettting better. Pat Williams will need to be replaced sooner rather than later, but DTs can play at a high level well into their 30's. Spencer Johnson is a nice sparkplug rotational guy.

DE is one player short. Mixon is an adequate starting LDE, but a guy you want to upgrade on. Udeze looked out-of-position on the right. His skillset is a natural fit for the LDE spot. Problem is that their isn't anybody better to move him over. Scott is another LDE-type who could take over Mixon's starting role. Johnstone is a good situational rusher. In an ideal world, Vikes get a WR at 7 so they can grab a guy like Merriman or Pollack at 18 to complete the DL.

LBs are questionable, promise yes but questionable.

Biggest unknown on the team. Harris, Henderson and Thomas have talent, need experience. Who knows how they will fair. Adding Cowart gives them a mentor/leader who can also take over should they falter.

DBs are fine, getting a safety is a must.

Vikes CBs are stacked. They are 3-deep. Safety, short-term, is set with Chavous and Sharper. Longterm, they need a guy to groom in as a starter. Offord shows flashes, but is more a ST/situational guy.

KICKER is really needed. Cortez? Anderson? PLEASE...

Vikes don't have a kicker currently under contract. Clearly, they will need to add one.

And a PR/KR would be nice!

Those come cheap at the draft. Moore and Campbell showed some talent in the role last year.

Caldwell, Parker, Shaw and Osgood is downright ugly to me. You can get some production by default from them (in the way that Tood Pinkston got yards in Philly), but on most teams those guys would be fighting to be the 3rd or 4th WR. Or even to make the team. In SD, they are fighting to start.

They will get a WR in the 1st round, and when you add that guy, whomever it may be to McCardell, Parker, Caldwell and Osgood, that's not bad.....not great but not ugly.......

They will get a WR in the 1st round, and when you add that guy, whomever it may be to McCardell, Parker, Caldwell and Osgood, that's not bad.....not great but not ugly.......

no, its still ugly, since you still have a rookie WR as a starter. Unless the rookie turns into a bonafide number 1, and you could have the rookie as your 1, a veteran in mccardell as your #2 then its a decent corps of receivers, but until you get a #1 worth a damn, its going to be ugly.

Believe it or not, I think the Arizona Cardinals are an up and coming team. They have three young, quality receivers in Fitzgerald, Boldin, and Bryant Johnson. They have an underrated o-line protecting Kurt Warner, who I think will rebound and have a decent season with the above receivers.

Their defense is young and fast and is underrated around the league. If they draft a stud RB like Benson or Brown, they'll be a hell of a team in a few years.

Believe it or not, I think the Arizona Cardinals are an up and coming team. They have three young, quality receivers in Fitzgerald, Boldin, and Bryant Johnson. They have an underrated o-line protecting Kurt Warner, who I think will rebound and have a decent season with the above receivers.

Their defense is young and fast and is underrated around the league. If they draft a stud RB like Benson or Brown, they'll be a hell of a team in a few years.
Warner is shot and wont cut it in Arizona, but if they do get that stud RB this year they will surely be headed in the right direction. I think that it would be in the best interest of the Cardinals to draft a RB in the first and then try and target an underrated guy like Andrew Walter or Charlie Frye in the 2nd. If they could satisfy those needs than they could focus the rest of their efforts on defense and be well on their way towards ending the futility in Arizona.

I think that it would be in the best interest of the Cardinals to draft a RB in the first and then try and target an underrated guy like Andrew Walter or Charlie Frye in the 2nd.
Or Adrian McPherson, who really impressed in his workouts. Plus, he put up some ungodly numbers in Arena so its not like he's new to the pro scene.

I'm a casual Bears fan, any chance for them in the next 5 years? :help:

Believe it or not, I think the Arizona Cardinals are an up and coming team. They have three young, quality receivers in Fitzgerald, Boldin, and Bryant Johnson. They have an underrated o-line protecting Kurt Warner, who I think will rebound and have a decent season with the above receivers.

Their defense is young and fast and is underrated around the league. If they draft a stud RB like Benson or Brown, they'll be a hell of a team in a few years.

They are quietly turning that franchise around. I think Warner is a horrible move and they should give Mccown the starting job, but if they can get a RB they could be a team that might sneak in the playoffs or at least competes for a spot. Hell, with the way the NFC West was last year they could win it if Seattle and St. Louis have mediocre seasons again. Of course, it would help if they stop losing to the 49ers. :D

no, its still ugly, since you still have a rookie WR as a starter. Unless the rookie turns into a bonafide number 1, and you could have the rookie as your 1, a veteran in mccardell as your #2 then its a decent corps of receivers, but until you get a #1 worth a damn, its going to be ugly.

So what would you consider the Chargers WR core last year? They did pretty darn good with an average group last year..... If your trying to tell me that this years group of WR's are going to be worse, then your way off base.....Caldwell was just starting to turn the corner before he ripped up his knee......and that was before the McCardell acquisition.....And is there a problem having a rookie reciever as a starter??? Ummmm, try Roy Williams, Lee Evans, Mike Clayton last year.....The Chargers WR's will be better than last year.....

So what would you consider the Chargers WR core last year? They did pretty darn good with an average group last year..... If your trying to tell me that this years group of WR's are going to be worse, then your way off base.....Caldwell was just starting to turn the corner before he ripped up his knee......and that was before the McCardell acquisition.....And is there a problem having a rookie reciever as a starter??? Ummmm, try Roy Williams, Lee Evans, Mike Clayton last year.....The Chargers WR's will be better than last year.....

oh, no argument there, as long as gates produces like last year, the wr crew should be significantly better than last year. I'm just saying they still need a lot of work to be considered good.

Atlanta Falcons.

I'm a casual Bears fan, any chance for them in the next 5 years? :help:

All depends on how some of their younger guys develop and what they do at the draft.

Grossman is an unknown at QB. He has looked mature for his limited experience, but hasn't really shown any 'wow' factor. And he has a tough time staying on the field. Who knows if he is going to be a quality starting QB or just a mediocre game manager who doesn't get in his own way.

RB is one of those 'is the glass half full or half empty' situations. Jones looked fantastic early on, but once again got hurt and did next to nothing after the first month (compared to his earlier performaces). Has Jones turned the corner and just unlucky with injuries, or is he a Biakabutuka who teases at times, but not cut out to be a starting RB. Really hard to say. Johnson did a kickbutt job at FB for them.

WR is in transition. Muhammed was a HUGE addition, but at 31 he is a short-term fix. Bears need to groom some talent in behind him. Something they have really struggled at. None of Wade, Berrian, Berlin, Gage, Johnson or Kelly are even assured a roster spot, let alone a starting job.

TE is adequate. No notable player here though, an upgrade is needed. Clark was servicable as a dump-off option, but that was about it. The other guys are non-descript blocking types with limited upside.

Offensive line is in flux, which is a good thing. For this next year, it should be good. Tait moves over to address the LT issues and Fred Miller starts at RT. Tucker, Kreutz and Brown give them a good interior line. Problem is age. Miller and Brown are 32 and 33 respectively. Linemen often play deep into their 30's, so this isn't an urgent issue. This is the best line the Bears have had in several years.

Defensive line is potentially impressive. A lot of talent there, just a matter of getting them all to perform in the same year and a starter to emerge at the NT position. Ugunleye, Brown and Haynes are a talented DE rotation who can really get to a QB. Issue is just consistency. Harris is a John-Randle-esque high-motor pass rushing DT who adds even more zip. Boone, Johnson and Scott are fighting for the last starting position. Johnson has the most upside, but is the most inconsistent. If the cards fall right for them, Bears have one of the best DLs in football.

LB is short one starter. Urlacher is a freakish stud and Briggs emerged as a playmaking talent next too him. Just need one more OLB, could get one in the draft or with the June 1 cuts.

CB is a question mark. Tillman regressed (though it might have been the lagging effects of injuries) and the no-contact rule really hurts his style. He is the only sure-bet. Azumah has his moments, but looks better in the nickel package and as a returner. McQuarters and Azumah are near identical and redundant. Another starter is needed. Vashar showed a nose for the ball, but did get picked on as well. He might be the starter they are looking for.

Safety has one of the more underappreciated playmakers in the league with Mike Brown. Still looking for the starter next too him though. Outside help is needed.

Maynard did a good job as a punter, but Edinger is struggling with consistency.

All in all, Bears are a Wild Card team. They could go 9-7 and make a Wild Card Berth. Could go 6-10 and pick in the top-10. Just so many unknowns on the team. There future is equally clouded, because so many players key to that success have not proven anything yet. Starting with Grossman.

All depends on how some of their younger guys develop and what they do at the draft.

Grossman is an unknown at QB. He has looked mature for his limited experience, but hasn't really shown any 'wow' factor. And he has a tough time staying on the field. Who knows if he is going to be a quality starting QB or just a mediocre game manager who doesn't get in his own way.

RB is one of those 'is the glass half full or half empty' situations. Jones looked fantastic early on, but once again got hurt and did next to nothing after the first month (compared to his earlier performaces). Has Jones turned the corner and just unlucky with injuries, or is he a Biakabutuka who teases at times, but not cut out to be a starting RB. Really hard to say. Johnson did a kickbutt job at FB for them.

WR is in transition. Muhammed was a HUGE addition, but at 31 he is a short-term fix. Bears need to groom some talent in behind him. Something they have really struggled at. None of Wade, Berrian, Berlin, Gage, Johnson or Kelly are even assured a roster spot, let alone a starting job.

TE is adequate. No notable player here though, an upgrade is needed. Clark was servicable as a dump-off option, but that was about it. The other guys are non-descript blocking types with limited upside.

Offensive line is in flux, which is a good thing. For this next year, it should be good. Tait moves over to address the LT issues and Fred Miller starts at RT. Tucker, Kreutz and Brown give them a good interior line. Problem is age. Miller and Brown are 32 and 33 respectively. Linemen often play deep into their 30's, so this isn't an urgent issue. This is the best line the Bears have had in several years.

Defensive line is potentially impressive. A lot of talent there, just a matter of getting them all to perform in the same year and a starter to emerge at the NT position. Ugunleye, Brown and Haynes are a talented DE rotation who can really get to a QB. Issue is just consistency. Harris is a John-Randle-esque high-motor pass rushing DT who adds even more zip. Boone, Johnson and Scott are fighting for the last starting position. Johnson has the most upside, but is the most inconsistent. If the cards fall right for them, Bears have one of the best DLs in football.

LB is short one starter. Urlacher is a freakish stud and Briggs emerged as a playmaking talent next too him. Just need one more OLB, could get one in the draft or with the June 1 cuts.

CB is a question mark. Tillman regressed (though it might have been the lagging effects of injuries) and the no-contact rule really hurts his style. He is the only sure-bet. Azumah has his moments, but looks better in the nickel package and as a returner. McQuarters and Azumah are near identical and redundant. Another starter is needed. Vashar showed a nose for the ball, but did get picked on as well. He might be the starter they are looking for.

Safety has one of the more underappreciated playmakers in the league with Mike Brown. Still looking for the starter next too him though. Outside help is needed.

Maynard did a good job as a punter, but Edinger is struggling with consistency.

All in all, Bears are a Wild Card team. They could go 9-7 and make a Wild Card Berth. Could go 6-10 and pick in the top-10. Just so many unknowns on the team. There future is equally clouded, because so many players key to that success have not proven anything yet. Starting with Grossman.

Very nice read JCD, that was very nice of you. Thanks. :)

I personally am anticipating a bit of a down year for the Chargers this year. We benefitted greatly by a generally weak schedule last year. Instead of playing the Texans, Titans, and Bucs, we'll be playing the Eagles, Steelers, and Patriots.

If Boller continues to get better....look out for the Ravens

My guess as to the team that will have the largest record improvement compared to last season is the Texans....yes, even without Sharper.