NFL Division Previews: AFC East

 


We're rapidly approaching the 2023 NFL Season, which means it's time for some previews. I'm going to be looking at each division, one-by-one, continuing today with the AFC East. Let's dive in.

Buffalo Bills:
2022 Record: 13-3, First in the AFC East. Lost in the Divisional Round
2023 Outlook: The Bills had a strange end to the season, then looked flat in the Divisional Round. This off-season the team added a few pieces--running back Damien Harris and rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid--but mostly return the same core. The Bills have been contenders the past few seasons with Josh Allen and it seems likely they'll be a contender again. But, can they make it further?
2023 Prediction: I think the Bills will win 11 or 12 games and compete for the AFC East Title again.

Miami Dolphins:
2022 Record: 9-8, Second in the AFC East. Lost in the Wild Card Round
2023 Outlook: The Dolphins season in 2022 came down to the health of Tua Tagovailoa. In 2023, it will come down to the same. They have a group of running backs with Jeff Wilson, Raheem Mostert and rookie Devon Achane that will be enough. They have Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to lead the passing attack. And they have enough on defense. But, can Tua stay healthy all season? That's the crucial question to determining how far they can go.
2023 Prediction: I think the Dolphins can win 11 or 12 games and compete for the division title.

New England Patriots:
2022 Record: 8-9, Third in the AFC East
2023 Outlook: After making the playoffs in 2021, the Patriots stumbled in 2022. A lack of weapons and increased competition led to a losing season. The Patriots brought in Bill O'Brien to run the offense, and added Juju Smith-Schuster and Mike Gesicki to provide some better weapons for Mac Jones. Those are positive signs. But the AFC East and AFC in general remains tough. Do the Patriots have enough to make a playoff run? I'm not sold.
2023 Prediction: I think the Patriots are in the seven-to-nine win range.

New York Jets:
2022 Record: 7-10, Fourth in the AFC East
2023 Outlook: The Jets started strong in 2022 but the struggles of Zach Wilson and Mike White at quarterback. Now, the team has acquired Aaron Rodgers. That provides stability at quarterback. They team also grabbed Allen Lazard and Mecole Hardman to add to the receiver room. That combined with a strong defense should make the Jets tough. But how quickly does it all come together?
2023 Prediction: I think the Jets remain in the playoff hunt but I'm still not sold. I have them in the eight-to-10 win range.

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