Arizona Cardinals
Rodney Hudson’s retirement came as a shock to everyone, the Cardinals front office included. The void left by the announcement sent the Cardinals into scramble mode. A patchwork offensive line was constructed quickly during free agency. Judging by what I have seen during camp, the offensive line appears to be coming along nicely and I don’t expect it to be a problem for the Cards this season. The addition of two pass rushers in the first round was an excellent move in my eyes. Defensive end Jimmy Demps and outside linebacker Channing Melvin should be more than capable of replacing JJ Watts production from last year. Although I believe the Cardinals overperformed last season, I do believe that they are a good team. I fully expect them compete for an NFC West title this season.
San Francisco Forty Niners
The Niners had a very quiet off-season, and that isn’t a good thing. The front office is relying on the growth of is current roster to get them to the next level. Reigning NFC Rookie of the Year Carlos Gold put on a show last season and made the leap to super star status. Bosa, Armstead and Gold will have to put their best foot forward 17 times this season if the Niners expect to have a shot at even making the playoffs. You never like to count teams out, but I just don’t see a path for this team this season.
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are a team stuck in competitive limbo. They are very capable of competing, but just can’t see to put it all together. With no draft picks in the first 3 rounds, the Hawks were in desperate need of some free agent acquisitions. JJ Watt and the returning KJ Wright highlight a free agent class that hopes to recapture some of Seattle’s former defensive excellence. A player to watch is undrafted free agent CB Braxton Broussard. The coaching staff is very high on the young man out of Louisville, and he appears to be every bit as good as advertised.
Los Angeles Rams
Turns out that Tua to LA rumors were not true. For a few weeks, it seemed very likely that the Rams would make a change at QB. However, I applaud the Rams for not overthinking things and sticking with Keith Turner. After last seasons very disappointing wild card loss at home, it would have been very easy to panic, but the Rams didn’t flinch and that belief will do wonders for this locker room. The Rams are projected to start 3 rookies this season; LT Michael Cannon, TE Paul Clifford and CB Jamal Starks. Rookie WR Leo Williams will be a player to watch early this season to see if he can play his way into a permanent role in the offense. I fully expect the Rams to bounce back and win the NFC West for the third season in a row.
NFC West Prediction
Rams 13-4
Cardinals 10-7
Seattle 8-9
Forty Niners 6-11