{"id":3469,"date":"2021-09-10T16:05:09","date_gmt":"2021-09-10T20:05:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/?p=3469"},"modified":"2021-09-10T21:20:08","modified_gmt":"2021-09-11T01:20:08","slug":"nfl-2021-predictions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/nfl-2021-predictions\/","title":{"rendered":"NFL 2021 Predictions"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3>NFL 2021 Predictions \u2013<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-1946 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/LombardiTrophy.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"207\" height=\"274\" \/><\/h3>\n<h3>\u00a0\u00a0 Rams Beat Bills in Super Bowl Matchup<br \/>\nDraftInsiders.com &#8211; NFL 2021 Predictions<\/h3>\n<p><em><strong>MVP Award &#8211; QB Matthew Stafford &#8211; Rams<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Offensive Player of the Year &#8211; QB Josh Allen &#8211; Bills<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\n<em><strong>Defensive Player of the Year &#8211; DE Chase Young &#8211; WFT<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\n<em><strong>Comeback Player of the Year &#8211; RB Saquan Barkley &#8211; Giants<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<h3><em><strong>Rookies of the Year<\/strong><\/em><\/h3>\n<p><em><strong>Offense &#8211; QB Mac Jones &#8211; Patriots<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\n<em><strong>Defense &#8211; CB Patrick Surtain &#8211; Broncos<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>NFC<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>EAST<\/strong><br \/>\nNew York Giants &#8211; 10-7<br \/>\nGiants hope to build on last year\u2019s improvement and look to the return of tailback Saquan Barkley to balance an offense directed by young talented Daniel Jones. Their offensive line may hold the key and must protect the three year passer. Their top ten defense can improve further.<\/p>\n<p>Washington Redskins &#8211; 9-8<br \/>\nSkins added vet QB Ryan Fitzpatrick to lead this improved offense that has added a few playmakers. \u00a0Back Antonio Gibson is primed for a big season while their line adds two new starters and will be tested. \u00a0Their defense added rookie backer Jamin Davis to a dominant unit with rusher Chase Young, one of the league\u2019s emerging superstars.<\/p>\n<p>Dallas Cowboys &#8211; 7-10<br \/>\nQB Dak Prescott returns from an ankle injury to couple with runner Ezekiel Elliot who carries the load here. Their receiving corps is arguably the best trio in the game. Their once dominant line returns veterans, Tyson Smith and Zach Martin. Their defense is not at playoff levels.<\/p>\n<p>Philadelphia Eagles &#8211; 6-11<br \/>\nEagles made major changes trading of former top pick Carson Wentz who will be replace by Jalen Hurts. Their line must prove back to their earlier form while the defense has slipped and may soon face a rebuilding phase.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>NORTH<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nGreen Bay Packers -12-5 &#8211;<br \/>\nAaron Rodgers separates this club from an average group of divisional rivals for their third consecutive North title.<\/p>\n<p>Minnesota Vikings &#8211; 9-8 &#8211;<br \/>\nQB Kirk Cousin and runner Dalvin Cook keeps this offense at playoff levels, but only a revitalized defense will decide any postseason appearance.<\/p>\n<p>Chicago Bears \u2013 7-10 &#8211;<br \/>\nBears look to new veteran QB Andy Dalton to direct this average offense with rookie Justin Fields in the wing. The defense fell to mediocrity last season and must return to a top ten ranking for any playoff aspirations.<\/p>\n<p>Detroit Lions &#8211; 6- 11 \u2013<br \/>\nLions turn the page again with new coaching and front office personnel. The very tough first half schedule probably has this club drafting in the top five selections once more.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>SOUTH<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nTampa Bay Bucs &#8211; 13-4 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Bucs return every starter and of course QB Tom Brady. \u00a0Veteran talented defense should continue to dominate this soft division.<\/p>\n<p>New Orleans Saints &#8211; 9-8 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Saints begin the post Drew Brees era behind Jameis Winston. \u00a0HC Sean Payton hopes he can stabilize the once turnover machine in Tampa. Saints defense is a top five unit who keeps them in the postseason chase.<\/p>\n<p>Carolina Panthers &#8211; 7-10 \u2013<br \/>\nPanthers turn the page with new vet QB Sam Darnold along with returning playmaker Christian McCaffrey to provide impact to this struggling unit. Young defense must show improvement.<\/p>\n<p>Atlanta Falcons &#8211; 6-11 \u2013<br \/>\nFalcons have continued to collapse since their SB meltdown four years ago. Vet QB Matt Ryan directs this club but may be the next piece on the trading market this year. Defense ranks with the worst in the league.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>WEST<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nLos Angeles Rams &#8211; 12-5 \u2013<br \/>\nRams traded for star QB Matthew Stafford who should flourish in this HC Sean McVay attack. His presence elevates this offense to couple with a premier defense to form a strong SB contender.<\/p>\n<p>San Francisco 49ers &#8211; 10-7 \u2013<br \/>\nThe 49ers look to the return of veterans, QB Jimmy Garoppolo and edge defender Nick Bosa to challenge for the West title. \u00a0Offense must step up to win the West title.<\/p>\n<p>Seattle Seahawks &#8211; 9-8 \u2013<br \/>\nSeahawks may be hard pressed to repeat in the West. QB Russell Wilson directs a strong run oriented offense with emerging back Chris Carson. \u00a0Their once dominant defense has slipped noticeable especially in key matchups.<\/p>\n<p>Arizona Cardinals \u2013 7-10 \u2013<br \/>\nCards look to build off last years\u2019 playoff run behind young QB Kyler Murray and a strong group of playmakers. Vet DE JJ Watt looks to become a leader and playmaker on this average unit.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Divisional Champs<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nGiants, Packers, Bucs and Rams<\/p>\n<p><strong><em>Wild Card Clubs<\/em><\/strong><br \/>\nSaints &amp; 49ers<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>NFC Championship<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nRams beat Packers in NFC title game.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>AFC<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\n<em><strong>EAST<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p>Buffalo Bills &#8211; 11-6 \u2013<br \/>\nBills won their first East title since \u201995 season behind star QB Josh Allen. An improved ground game will assist their young tough defense to improve further in big matchups.<\/p>\n<p>New England Patriots &#8211; 10-7 \u2013<br \/>\nPats turn over the keys to rookie QB Mac Jones who looks like an ideal fit here. Bill Belichick will utilize a veteran defense with many new front seven pieces to his brilliant schemes.<\/p>\n<p>Miami Dolphins &#8211; 9-8 \u2013<br \/>\nDolphins need young QB Tua Tagovailoa to step up after a mixed rookie performance. Their defense bends but minimizes big plays and may hold the key to any playoff hopes.<\/p>\n<p>New York Jets \u2013 5-12 \u2013<br \/>\nJets look to rookie top pick QB Zach Wilson to direct this offense which has many new starters. This club begins another rebuilding process that may take a few seasons.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>NORTH<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nCleveland Browns &#8211; 11-6 \u2013<br \/>\nBrowns feel they have arrived after making the playoffs for the first time in 26 seasons. They are primed to win the division behind QB Baker Mayfield and a strong ground game. \u00a0Their defense must improve in all areas to make key overall progress.<\/p>\n<p>Baltimore Ravens &#8211; 10-7 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Ravens will rely on QB Lamar Jackson to direct this offense that has sustained major injuries at running back. Their tough defense retools annually and must improve in coverage to go further in the postseason.<\/p>\n<p>Pittsburgh Steelers &#8211; 9-8 \u2013<br \/>\nBig Ben gets new playmakers especially rookie back Najee Harris to attempt to repeat in North division. Their offensive line may be the determining factor for any postseason appearance. \u00a0The Steel defense remains the team\u2019s backbone.<\/p>\n<p>Cincinnati Bengals &#8211; 6-11 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Bengals need young QB Joe Burrow to return to his form prior to his late rookie season knee injury. Their offensive line is vital to any improvement at this struggling attack. Their defense has several new starters.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>SOUTH<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nIndianapolis Colts &#8211; 11-6 \u2013<br \/>\nNew QB Carson Wentz returns after foot surgery that may affect his early season performance. Expect a reliance on a strong ground game with Jon Taylor running behind their talented line. \u00a0This young club needs to improve to win this division especially in coverage.<\/p>\n<p>Tennessee Titans &#8211; 10-7 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Titans look to QB Ryan Tannehill to direct this potent offense that relies on premier back Derrick Henry to control the game. Their defense must step up especially rushing the passer to maintain playoff levels.<\/p>\n<p>Jacksonville Jaguars &#8211; 6-11 \u2013<br \/>\nJaguars look to top pick QB Trevor Lawrence to help this club to respectable levels. Their young defense is loaded with talent, but must turn the corner after weak overall 2020 performances.<\/p>\n<p>Houston Texans &#8211; 5-12 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Texans will face the DeShaun Watson legal issues most of this season that will be very disruptive. They could trade him before November.\u00a0 Massive roster turnover will make this a major rebuilding project.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>WEST<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nKansas City Chiefs &#8211; 12-5 \u2013<br \/>\nChiefs look for their 6<sup>th<\/sup> consecutive West title behind star QB Patrick Mahomes and a masterfully rebuild offensive line. They rely on veterans, safety Tyrann Mathieu and DT Chris Jones to set the pace for this inconsistent defense.<\/p>\n<p>San Diego Chargers &#8211; 10-7 \u2013<br \/>\nThe Chargers look to young QB Justin Herbert to continue his outstanding level of play. New linemen, vet Corey Linsley and rookie Rasheed Slater will help. They can surprise for the West title, though need huge improvement on their young defense with returning safety Derwin James directing this unit.<\/p>\n<p>Denver Broncos &#8211; 9-8 \u2013<br \/>\nBroncos hope to make a run at title with a strong veteran lineup along with bridge QB Teddy Bridgewater. Whether he can take this low scoring attack to the next level remains to be seen. Their defense has slipped noticeably in recent seasons.<\/p>\n<p>Oakland Raiders &#8211; 7-10 \u2013<br \/>\nRaiders rely on talented QB Derek Carr to direct this offense powered by tailback Josh Jacobs. \u00a0They need fast overall improvement on defense to challenge for an above .500 season.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Divisional Champs<\/strong><br \/>\nBills, Browns, Colts and Chiefs<\/p>\n<p><strong>Wild Card Clubs<\/strong><br \/>\nTitans &amp; Ravens<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>AFC Championship<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nBills beat the Chiefs<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Super Bowl Matchup<\/strong><\/em><br \/>\nRams over Bills<br \/>\nRams win a wild Super Bowl showdown with Bills.<\/p>\n<div class=\"pdfprnt-buttons pdfprnt-buttons-post pdfprnt-bottom-right\"><a href=\"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3469?print=print\" class=\"pdfprnt-button pdfprnt-button-print\" target=\"_blank\" ><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/pdf-print\/images\/print.png\" alt=\"image_print\" title=\"Print Content\" \/><span class=\"pdfprnt-button-title pdfprnt-button-print-title\">Printer Friendly<\/span><\/a><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<div class=\"mh-excerpt\"><p>NFL 2021 Predictions \u2013 \u00a0\u00a0 Rams Beat Bills in Super Bowl Matchup DraftInsiders.com &#8211; NFL 2021 Predictions MVP Award &#8211; QB Matthew Stafford &#8211; Rams Offensive Player of the Year &#8211; QB Josh <a class=\"mh-excerpt-more\" href=\"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/nfl-2021-predictions\/\" title=\"NFL 2021 Predictions\">  [read more&#8230;]<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1946,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,9,43,11],"tags":[32],"class_list":{"0":"post-3469","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-ahead-of-the-curve","8":"category-in-the-huddle","9":"category-nfl-headlines","10":"category-nfl-news","11":"tag-draft-insider-news"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3469","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3469"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3469\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3475,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3469\/revisions\/3475"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1946"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3469"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3469"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/draftinsiders.com\/DraftInsiders\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3469"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}