In August, we will ask our staff a single question on a variety of topics ranging from a huge news event to a tough fantasy decision or player evaluation.
See the landing for more pages just like this here.
If you like this format, come back for another Question of the Day. Today, we take another look at the NFL as a whole. But at the bottom.
According to VegasInsider.com, here are the favorites to finish last in the eight NFL divisions.
NFC East - Washington Commanders
AFC East - New England Patriots
NFC West - Arizona Cardinals
AFC West - Las Vegas Raiders
NFC North - Chicago Bears
AFC North - Pittsburgh Steelers
NFC South - Tampa Bay Buccaneers
AFC South - Houston Texans
But we always see surprise teams.
Here's the question we asked our staff.
Which team are you most confident about not being last in their division? Why?
Here are the most common answers:
- Chicago Bears - 3
- Pittsburgh Steelers - 3
- Houston Texans - 2
- New England Patriots - 2
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 1
Check out the full answers below for the reasons why.
Matt Waldman: While not supremely confident with my answer, I will roll with the Bears. The Lions and Vikings have strong offenses but weak spots on defense.
The Vikings brought Brian Flores to coach the unit, and he’s an aggressive playcaller who could wind up on the losing side of boom-bust moments thanks to a dearth of talent. The Lions' back seven is a generous crew versus the pass.
However, I am inclined to bet against the Packers, who have a physically talented but unproven quarterback throwing to a young, inexperienced receiving corps. The Bears improved its offensive line and receiving corps. The defense could take another step forward with key additions at DE, DT, and LB. While it is a safer bet that the Bears are third in the division, I could see them leapfrogging the Lions or Vikings if those defenses falter or injuries strike the offense.
Ben Cummins: I'm most confident the Houston Texans will not finish last in their division. The Texans improved by bringing in new head coach Demeco Ryans, new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik (49ers' passing game coordinator in 2022), and new quarterback #2 overall pick C.J. Stroud. Ryans will upgrade the defense, and Stroud will upgrade the offense. Meanwhile, in the division, the Titans are a bit of a question mark, and the Colts are in a similar boat to the Texans, just with a rookie starting quarterback who was selected after Stroud.