NFC East Preview

The NFC East is the most competitive and consistent division in the NFC bar none. Home of the most bitter rivalries in the league. This division is a perennial powerhouse that always has a playoff atmosphere during division match-ups. Always a joy watching this division go at it.

1) Dallas Cowboys

Record last year: 13-3 / Projected: 12-4

Dallas added Felix Jones (RB, Arkansas) in the first round of the draft as well as Tashard Choice (RB, Georgia Tech) in the fourth round for extra running back depth due to the departure of Julius Jones. I think they will have more success running the ball this year and may have an even better offense this year than in 2007. Their schedule this season is a little tougher than it was last year but they are still the class of the division. They have a top five QB, WR, TE, and Defense. With the additions of Zach Thomas and possibly Adam “Don’t call me Pacman” Jones, the Cowboys should easily win the division again this year.  

2) Philadelphia Eagles

Record last year: 8-8 / Projected: 10-6

The Eagles have a slightly easier schedule this year and enjoyed a deep draft this offseason. They did well in the second round by selecting defensive tackle Trevor Laws and wide receiver Deshaun Jackson. McNabb is the key to the success of this team. He has suffered several injury plagued seasons in the last few years but if he can manage to stay healthy, the Eagles will certainly enjoy a playoff appearance. When Asante Samuel was added to the secondary this offseason, that signaled an immediate improvement to a defense that had some issues last year. Philly showed some flashes of brilliance last season and they can surely capitalize on that momentum going forward, and I think they will. A wildcard spot seems likely for this hard working, well coached squad.   

3) Washington Redskins

Record last year: 9-7 / Projected: 9-7

The Redskins used their first three picks in the draft on three receivers. New head coach Jim Zorn is making it quite clear what direction he wants the team to go in. He plans on opening up the offense for young quarterback Jason Campbell. This will be Campbell’s third offense he’s had to learn in three years. That can be tough on a young player, or any player, especially a quarterback. The skins have a harder schedule this season on top of playing in the most competitive division in the NFC. This will be a rebuilding year for the Skins that will feature a lot of chance taking and excitement in the offense. The recent trade for Jason Taylor from the Dolphins will definitely add a spark to the defense. The Skins D should be able to cause plenty of turnovers and be fairly dominant in most contests.

4) New York Giants

Record last year: 10-6 / Projected: 8-8

 The Giants had a difficult offseason with the loss of Gibril Wilson, Reggie Torbor, Kawika Mitchell, and William Joseph to free agency. Not to mention the retirement of Michael Strahan, the cornerstone of their defensive line and emotional leader on defense. These key losses will be very tough for the Giants to overcome. Even though they still have Osi Umenyiora and Justin Tuck, their 2007 league lead in sacks will certainly be hard to repeat without Strahan out there. Eli Manning is a good quarterback but there is no doubt that there success last year was in large part due to the exceptional play of their defense. With a tougher schedule and more off-the-field distractions, New York will be hard pressed to duplicate their 2007 success. They will also miss the offensive leadership of Jeremy Shockey. The Pro Bowl TE was traded to the Saints for two draft picks.

This is the 2008-2009 outlook of the NFC East from our perspective. What is your call?

Feel Free to share your thoughts. 

Share/Save