The 2022 season was certainly an exciting one. However, as the Super Bowl, which serves as the pinnacle of season activities, is fast approaching, many are already setting their sights on the upcoming season. While the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs might have made it to the Super Bowl game this time around, there is no telling what could play out in the next season. For all we know, we might have a new set ofSuper Bowl teams.
Many teams underwent massive improvements in the 2022 NFL season, which could see them rise to dominance in the next season. Similarly, several teams are set to bolster their rosters with some of the best prospects at the NFL draft. This could also have them ideally positioned to contend for the title in 2023/2024.
Thus, in this article, we will explore some of the teams to pay attention to in anticipation of the 2023 season. Let's dive right in:
Chicago Bears
It might be a little strange that the Bears made this list, considering they are yet to consistently secure wins. However, a deeper look into this team confirms that it is indeed in an ideal position going into the 2023-24 season. One of the chief reasons is certainly the emergence of Justin Fields as a franchise quarterback. Fields has improved massively under the guidance of head coach Matt Eberflus as is evident in his most recent numbers. The second-year signal-caller managed a passer rating of 86.2 and seven touchdowns heading into Week 13. Undoubtedly, with a better team, Fields has the potential to become one of the most prolific QBs in the league.
With a projected cap space of $115 million, the Bears certainly have all it takes to build a better supporting cast around Fields. In addition, the team could use its first-round picks in the NFL Draft to secure an excellent receiver.
Detroit Lions
The Lions didn't have the most successful campaigns over the past season. However, those paying attention would likely have noticed the sparks indicating that this team is not far off from becoming elite. Much of this can be credited to head coach Dan Campbell who has shown an unshaken dedication to building a resilient team with a winning mentality.
This disposition is certainly yielding results, as the Lions managed a three-game winning streak until a loss against the Buffalo Bills in Week 12. Central to the Lions' moderate success has been a host of young players such as Aidan Hutchinson and Amon-Ra St. Brown. The team may also have an opportunity to secure a more long-term QB option in the 2023 NFL Draft, which could establish them as a top contender next season.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars were in a building phase through the 2022 season and likely still are. However, from all indications, things are going well, and this team might only require a few more pieces to realize their full potential in the 2023-24 season. The Jaguars already have a franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence, who is living up to his draft status. He proved himself instrumental to the Jaguars' recent comeback win over Baltimore. Similarly, many other young talents have been pulling their weight, such as Trevon Walker, Josh Allen, Christian Kirk, and Devin Lloyd.
The Jaguars might be able to further improve their team through the draft in 2023, which will certainly see them pose a problem to other teams.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are another team slowly but steadily acquiring all that is required to become a quality top challenger in the NFL. A primary reason for this is, of course, Mike Tomlin, who has transformed the Steelers into a team that rarely has a losing season.
A major determinant of how far this team will go in the upcoming season will be Kenny Pickett. While the rookie quarterback didn't have the best of starts to the season, he has shown flashes of a franchise QB in recent weeks. Pickett's emergence, if sustained, will surely be instrumental to securing the position of the Steelers as a top team. Furthermore, if the team can manage to improve their defense, theirNFL odds are bound to improve dramatically in the 2023-24 season.
Final Thoughts
If there is anything we know about the NFL, it is that quality teams are rarely built overnight. Thus, while the teams mentioned in this article are by no means the best in the league currently, they might be making a gradual but sure march toward this status.
Comments powered by CComment