I went through the draft list and the NFL schedule to get a better idea of how to rank it. We’re still months away from opening season, so don’t overreact too much. Anything can happen during the offseason. It could range from simply injuries to off-the-field stuff (Rashee Rice for example), to holdouts, late pick-ups in free agency, a trade out of nowhere, quarterback battles, or even something like Michael Penix starting Week 1 over Cousins (not happening, but still). You won’t see the rankings until we’re close to Week 1. Have a great week!

10) INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Improved pass rushing was needed by the Colts, and they got one in Laiatu Latu from UCLA. Whether it had anything to do with the history of good pass rushers from a decade ago, Indy hit one home with him. Also, the early schedule stacks up to be a rollercoaster of long home games and long road trips. The rest of the season balances out and the team’s built to compete. If Anthony Richardson stays healthy and plays smart, the team may finally get over the hump.

9) PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Pittsburgh understood that they want to further improve their offensive line, especially when having both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields on the depth chart. They drafted Troy Fautanu and immediately followed up with Zach Frazier in Day 2 along with Mason McCormick in Day 3. The schedule presents a challenge with the Jets, Chiefs, Colts, Cowboys, Eagles, and their own division. However, they’re built like the Colts to compete with anyone. If Wilson or Fields works out and everyone stays healthy, they should run it back in the playoffs. Most importantly, they went 5-1 in their division last year.

8) TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Tampa addressed areas on their offensive line and defenses beyond the front four. They drafted center Graham Barton from Duke, Georgia defensive back Tykee Smith, and linebacker/edge rusher Chris Braswell. If this helps Tampa clear up those issues, they might be primed for another playoff run. However, nothing’s guaranteed despite being three-time division champs. The NFC South, especially, will give them a run for their money.

7) LOS ANGELES RAMS

The Rams seem inclined on replacing Aaron Donald as quickly as possible. If drafting two edge rushers (Jared Verse and Brennan Jackson) and two defensive tackles (Braden Fiske and Tyler Davis) isn’t enough to replace one future Hall of Famer, then I don’t know what to tell ya. The two Seminoles, Verse and Fiske, were assassins up front together. Let’s see if it follows up at the next level until they face the 49ers lol The Rams have a bit of distance travel, but the roster’s young and energized to manage their long trips. Their only worry is the 49ers for the division title. Nothing else matters.

6) HOUSTON TEXANS

Houston’s stocking up for the future for CJ Stroud and DeMeco Ryans. DBs Kamari Lassiter and Calen Bullock, and offensive tackle Blake Fisher and tight end Cade Stover (Stroud’s Ohio State teammate) and the rest could help further Houston’s progress as they’re challenged by a potentially improved AFC South. They had one heck of a run last season but repeating it won’t be easy. Their division and their schedule starting on October 27th will determine if last season wasn’t a fluke.

5) DETROIT LIONS

Detroit was definitely the bell of the NFL ball. The draft was spectacular, and their draft was solid from start to finish. Not many have an idea what offensive tackle Giovanni Manu from British Columbia will look like, but he’ll be coached by MCDC, so optimism is on his side. Detroit should run it back since their schedule gives them the opportunity. The must prepare for their own division, the NFC West, Buffalo, and Dallas once again. I think that the Cowboys (Week 6) and 49ers matchup (Week 17) will be marked on their calendar for sure.

4) GREEN BAY PACKERS

Green Bay addressed most of their positions and the majority of them should be ready for playing time this upcoming season. OT Jordan Morgan and linebacker Edgerrin Cooper were interesting picks. However, other players between Round 3 and Round 5 could find themselves on the field eventually, including safety Javon Bullard and running back MarShawn Lloyd. Green Bay may be met with challenges after Jordan Love surged in the second half of the season. If his receivers stay healthy, the running backs establish themselves without Aaron Jones, and the defense plays like a Top 5 defense, Green Bay could have a special season.

3) SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Drafting Ricky Pearsall has already started the Aiyuk/Samuel trade debate. Outside of that smoke, I like the pick and it’s possible all three will be there for one season. The next three after were solid picks and could find themselves on the field eventually. However, I don’t understand why San Fran drafted another running back? I really don’t. Is CMC, Eli Mitchell, and Jordan Mason just not enough to be acceptable??? San Fran will also have a target on their back. Their own division, Dallas, Miami, Green Bay, Tampa, Aaron Rodgers and Detroit are plotting for vengeance. San Fran’s also plotting theirs against Minnesota, Chicago, and Kansas City. Expect plenty of fire on either side!

2) BALTIMORE RAVENS

Baltimore made sure to add key pieces up front on offense, the cornerback spot, and a linebacker. Drafting receiver Devontez Walker was an interesting pick. The kid hasn’t played enough football to be warranted a reliable receiver just yet, but he has plenty of upside to be one at the next level. Pivoting to the season, Baltimore needs this one for redemption after letting a Super Bowl opportunity escape their grasps. They travel to Kansas City for Week 1 and need a lot of Detroit’s heart in order to avenge that heartbreaking loss in the AFC title game. The rest of their schedule sets up for a division title repeat, but it won’t be easy with Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Joe Burrow battling for it.

1) KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Of course, the back-to-back Super Bowl champs have a solid draft. Xavier Worthy could work out nicely alongside Travis Kelce, Isiah Pacheco and Pat Mahomes. He must put on some weight to last a while though. They also drafted big boy offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia to be their long-term offensive lineman. From Week 1 to the end of the season won’t be a cakewalk to an extent. They’re built for another Super Bowl run, but like other teams across the league, sports, and internationally, going for a three-peat in professional sports breeds complacency. Ask Kirby Smart and Georgia last year.

===========================================

TEAMS CONSIDERED

11) JETS

12) COWBOYS

13) FALCONS

14) DOLPHINS

15) EAGLES