The 2013 season was filled with disappointment. Teams like the Houston Texans, Washington Reskinds and Atlanta Falcons followed strong years in 2012 with last place finishes in 2013. Many were surprised by these performances and expected much more.
The questions remains: will these teams return to form? How many teams can go from the cellar of their respective divisions to contention in just one year. A few teams have a chance at a rebound year; some that will shock fans and some that are expected.
Washington Redskins
The Redskins’ 2013 season was not what anyone hoped for. Robert Griffin III struggled passing after recovering from ACL surgery, throwing 12 interceptions and completing 60.1 percent of his passes. His ineffectiveness overshadowed 1,000-yard seasons from running back Alfred Morris and wide receiver Pierre Garcon.
Even still, the Redskins’ biggest weakness was their 19th-ranked defense, which allowed 5,665 yards en route to the 3-13 season. The team needed to address the defense and did so by signing Jason Hatcher, Tracy Porter and Ryan Clark.
Not to mention, the Redskins also improved on the offensive front. The team lacked a reliable No. 2 receiver and signed Pro Bowler DeSean Jackson, making Garcon one of the best No. 2 receivers in the entire league. Look out for a more-balanced Redskins team in a weak NFC East.
Cleveland Browns
Yes, you read that correctly. The Browns are to be feared this year. After finishing 4-12 with a -98 point differential last season, the Browns completed revamped their offense in an attempt to reverse their fortune.
The first move was to sign a reliable running back to replace Trent Richardson, whom the team traded mid-season. Ben Tate signed on with Cleveland for $7 million dollars and instantly made the team better.
Then there was the quarterback position, where quarterbacks have tried and failed to make the Browns elite. The Browns made headlines when they drafted Johnny Manziel in the first round on May’s NFL Draft. He could beat out Brian Hoyer for the starting job, and if he performs anything like at Texas A&M, he could lead the Browns to success.
Atlanta Falcons
It wasn’t long ago, just two season ago, that Matt Ryan was looked at as one of the best quarterbacks in the league and the Falcons were on their way to the No.1 seed in the NFC. A horrid 2013 season helped to erase those memories, however.
The Falcons were last in the NFL in rushing yards, as starter Steven Jackson missed four games because of injury. With Jackson back and newly-drafted Devonta Freeman adding speed, the Falcons’ run game could see vast improvements.
Atlanta was also missing their top receiver, Julio Jones, who missed 11 games with an ACL tear. With Harry Douglas as the top receiver, Ryan did not have much to work with. With Jones back and Devin Hester in the fold, the Falcons offense will be explosive once again.
However, like the Redskins, the Falcons defense was their main weakness. They ranked 27th in the league in defense, but made a few additions that should changes that number. Players like defensive tackle Paul Soliai and cornerback Kyle Wilson should help sure the defense and translate to more time on offense.