2005 Up and Comers

It's probably too early to know which teams will make serious improvements next season. The free agent season and draft are still to come. But, from the choices and changes some teams have already made, we can see some possibilities. Here are a few teams that could improve by 2 or 3 wins or more next season, in no particular order.

Miami Dolphins: The Fins looked truly bad at times last year, but the defense was solid. If they improve the offensive line and get a good running back, this is easily a .500 team and could make a run at the playoffs.

Cincinnati Bengals: This is a team on the verge of something. Whether they go up or down depends on several things. But the improvement on offense last year will continue with the maturing of Carson Palmer. If they can make Rudi happy and make a little progress defensively, they could make some noise.

Tennessee Titans: After one of the most injury-plagued seasons in history, the Titans need to get healthy. They have good talent and coaching. Their transition from an aging team, injuries, and the loss of a few free agents studs all added up to a down year. But next year should be much better.

Dallas Cowboys: In one 7-game stretch they went 1-6. During that time the running game was non-existent and the passing game was just plain bad. The defense also let down last year. But, at the end of the year we saw signs of what was to come. Parcells found his running back and the defense started to play better. If the Cowboys can find a good QB and improve a little defensively, they can make a run at the weak NFC playoffs and give Philly a little competition in the division.

Minnesota Vikings: The sale of the team bodes well, but Mike Tice and the coaching staff will have to improve their game-day decisions. If Tice can open things up and get defensive help, this team goes 10-6.

Detroit Lions: They improved as the running game improved at the end of the season and they were a botched snap from a chance at the playoffs. Mariucci will look for help for Harrington, the receivers will be healthy, and the running game is strong. Detroit should go over .500 next year and, in the NFC, that means a shot at the playoffs.

Carolina Panthers: Another team that was killed by injuries. Once they adjusted and started to trust the players, they came on strong. If they're healthy next year, they should go 10-6.

Arizona Cardinals: Dennis Green was getting a lot of criticism last year, but the fact is the Cardinals made some big improvements, especially on the defensive side of the ball. If they could have beaten the worst team in the NFL (SF), they had a real shot at the division title (even if it was the worst division in football). They are a good QB and RB away from the NFC West division crown next year. But those are some pretty big holes to fill.

San Francisco 49ers: They would have to have been twice as good last year to only be horrible, so this team almost can't help but get better. Five wins is a big improvement.