Q: Adam, what do you think the ceiling is for Matthew Stafford and the Detroit Lions this season? Last season, they took a big step by making the playoffs. Do you think they are a Super Bowl contender?

-- Frank (Michigan)

A: Super Bowl is a bit much in a conference as tough as the NFC, Frank, but it's hardly out of the question. They have to improve the defense and the running game (and their players need to stay out of off-field trouble), but the organization is well aware of that. For Stafford to become elite, he faces the same question he faced last year and will face in future years: Can he stay healthy? As long as he's healthy, he will be great. He already is. And he turned only 24 in February. So if Stafford stays healthy, the Lions should be legitimate playoff contenders the next dozen years. And if they can continue surrounding him with talent, there's no reason they can't be a Super Bowl contender every year during that time.

Q: Adam, will Hakeem Nicks' broken foot make any difference for the New York Giants' season? Do they need to go out and add a Plaxico Burress for insurance in case it takes Nicks longer to recover?

-- Jason (Nevada)

A: It's not the news you want to get in late May, Jason. The Giants are saying the injury will sideline Nicks about 12 weeks, but I've had one person familiar with the injury tell me that he thinks it's a four- to six-week injury. Either way, Nicks should be ready for the Giants' regular-season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on Wednesday, Sept. 5. The more pertinent question then will be what type of shape he is in and how much he can contribute immediately. It's hard not to be concerned about Nicks' injury history -- that's part of a larger issue. And as for Burress, it's not really the Giant Way to go out and add a veteran player at this time. They like to develop their own players and promote from within. With so many young receivers on the roster, it's hard to see the Giants making a run at him.

Q: I've heard a lot of talk that Todd Haley could lead a increased passing attack in Pittsburgh. With new additions (David DeCastro, Mike Adams) along the offensive line, do you think we'll see a Steelers offense that focuses more on the run or the pass?

-- Terrell (Kansas)

A: It would be hard for Pittsburgh to increase its passing attack, Terrell. Pittsburgh threw the ball an awful lot in recent seasons. The dynamic of the team has shifted, going from a run-based team to a pass-based team. Based on Haley's history, the Steelers would figure to get back to a more balanced attack, though Pittsburgh is unsure when running back Rashard Mendenhall will return. Haley is smart enough to play to the teams' strengths, though. I don't think Pittsburgh will throw the ball any more, but then again, the Steelers already were throwing the ball an awful lot.

Q: I don't hear anyone talking about my Tampa Bay Buccaneers! They had a great offseason both in free agency and the draft. What do you think their chances are in the NFC South?

-- Herbert (Florida)

A: I like the Bucs, Herbert. I like the Bucs a lot. I don't think they were as good as they looked two seasons ago, and don't think they were as bad as they looked last season. Think they're somewhere in between -- and that was before they went out and added Greg Schiano, Vincent Jackson, Carl Nicks, Doug Martin, Eric Wright and others. This is a team that is going to come out and be considerably tougher and more disciplined. I believe the Buccaneers will compete in the NFC South, which is one of football's toughest divisions. It won't be easy to overtake the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons, or keep up with the Carolina Panthers. But the Buccaneers have had just the type of offseason they needed. This team will be, at the very least, a tough team to play against.

Q: Adam, since Cam Newton had such a phenomenal year as a rookie, do you think there is a chance he has a sophomore slump? What about Andy Dalton? Or will they both continue to improve with added talent around them?

-- David (North Carolina)

A: My belief is that neither of those quarterbacks will go through a sophomore slump, David, and here's why: When each of those quarterbacks started last season, they did it coming off a lockout, with very little preparation and down time. This offseason, Newton and Dalton are getting a lot more time to get even more familiar with their teams' playbooks and personnel. Why shouldn't they be better? The sophomore slump is more fiction than fact. Sure, there are some players who struggle in their second year, but more excel and take the jump to the next level. There's no reason Newton and Dalton shouldn't be able to do that.

http://insider.espn.go.com/insider/blog/_/name/millman_chad/id/7987931/nfl-st-louis-rams-new-england-patriots-best-worst-season-win-total-bets
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The lottery results are in and the New Orleans Hornets are the big winners of this year's draft lottery. That means it's time for Mock Draft 5.0.

At this point, very little is set in stone, so expect our mock draft to fluctuate greatly over the course of the next four weeks. The Chicago NBA pre-draft combine, the adidas Eurocamp and hundreds of team workouts will dramatically alter the face of the draft.

But here's our best stab for now, after talking to numerous NBA team sources, on how the draft might play out on June 28.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


New Orleans


Anthony Davis
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-10
Weight: 220 pounds
Age: 19
School: Kentucky

Analysis: What a huge win for the Hornets. They lost a superstar this season (Chris Paul) yet will replace him with Anthony Davis. Pair Davis with Eric Gordon, and New Orleans has a very strong foundation to build upon. And the best news is the Hornets have another pick at No. 10 to add a point guard to the mix.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Charlotte


Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-7
Weight: 210 pounds
Age: 18
School: Kentucky

Analysis: Missing out on Davis is a major blow for the Bobcats. Now the question is which hole do they try to plug? I think this will come down to Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Thomas Robinson. Kidd-Gilchrist is the second-best player in this draft and will add toughness and leadership. Michael Jordan wants winners, and Kidd-Gilchrist is a winner. Robinson adds many of the same qualities at the 4 position, but maybe with a little less upside.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Washington


Bradley Beal
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 195 pounds
Age: 18
School: Florida

Analysis: The Wizards are obviously disappointed they didn't crack the No. 1 pick, but they should still get a great player. I think it will come down to Kidd-Gilchrist or Bradley Beal. In this mock, MKG is off the board, so the choice is much easier. Beal would be a great get for the Wizards. The team could really use a dominant 2-guard to pair with John Wall. Beal is a very good fit who should be able to step in and contribute right away.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Cleveland


Harrison Barnes
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 210 pounds
Age: 19
School: North Carolina

Analysis: Thomas Robinson may be the best player left on the board, but he's not a great fit with Tristan Thompson. If both MKG and Beal are off the board, the choice will be between Harrison Barnes and Andre Drummond. Both fit needs and Drummond has crazy upside, but the Cavs loved Barnes at the No. 4 pick last year before he decided to go back to school. I think they'll roll the dice on him again this year.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Sacramento


Thomas Robinson
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 237 pounds
Age: 21
School: Kansas

Analysis: The Kings, if they keep the pick, will likely try to add some athleticism, size and toughness to their front line. Drummond is bigger and is an elite athlete, but Thomas Robinson is also an explosive athlete and has actually produced. More importantly, Robinson is a winner. He could help Sacramento turn around the team's culture.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Portland (via Nets)


Andre Drummond
Position: C
Height: 6-foot-11
Weight: 275 pounds
Age: 18
School: UConn

Analysis: This could be a scary pick for Portland. At some point Drummond's rewards start to outweigh his risks. I think this may be the point. If not, I think the Trail Blazers have to start looking at players such as Damian Lillard or Dion Waiters. Maybe they can package picks Nos. 6 and 11 and move up to get a player such as Brad Beal.


PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Golden State


Jared Sullinger
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 280 pounds
Age: 20
School: Ohio State

Analysis: I've had Perry Jones III here the past few weeks, but I'm starting to hear that the Warriors won't go that direction. I think they will instead go with a more proven player to help them on the front line. I hear the Warriors are quite high on Sully. Terrence Jones, out of Kentucky, is also a strong possibility here.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Toronto


Dion Waiters
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 215 pounds
Age: 20
School: Syracuse

Analysis: The Raptors are filled with a roster of mostly soft jump shooters. What they really need is a tough player who can get to the basket and get his own shot at the end of games. They need a true scorer. DeMar DeRozan might get there someday, but Dion Waiters is there right now. The fact that Waiters can also play some point guard is a bonus. He could go anywhere from No. 6 to No. 15 on draft night.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Detroit


John Henson
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-10
Weight: 210 pounds
Age: 21
School: North Carolina

Analysis: Greg Monroe has been a revelation in the middle for the Pistons, but they really need to pair him alongside an athletic shot-blocker. Although John Henson is painfully thin, he rebounds, blocks shots and defends multiple positions. It wouldn't be a perfect solution in Detroit, but the Pistons don't have a lot of other options here.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


New Orleans
(via Wolves)


Damian Lillard
Position: PG
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 185 pounds
Age: 21
School: Weber State

Analysis: With Anthony Davis in the fold, it's time to find a player that can start throwing him lobs. The question is whether it's a combo guard, such as Damian Lillard, or a pure point guard, such as Kendall Marshall. At first glance, Marshall looks like a more obvious fit, but with Davis likely to draw double teams, they may prefer a guard who can really shoot it. If that's the case, Lillard is the guy.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Portland


Jeremy Lamb
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 185 pounds
Age: 19
School: UConn

Analysis: The Blazers really need a point guard. But with Lillard off the board, I wouldn't be surprised if they pulled the trigger on Jeremy Lamb, who could go anywhere from No. 6 to No. 13 on draft night. Portland's scouting staff has been high on him for the past year and, though he wouldn't fill a primary need, he has the talent to eventually earn a spot as the team's starting 2-guard.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Milwaukee


Perry Jones III
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-11
Weight: 235 pounds
Age: 20
School: Baylor

Analysis: The Bucks gambled a few years ago on Brandon Jennings, and it paid off big time. At this point in the draft, Jones is less risk and more reward.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Phoenix


Terrence Ross
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 190 pounds
Age: 21
School: Washington

Analysis: The Suns need a little bit of everything, but they have a major hole at the 2-guard position. Ross has potential star power -- he is a great athlete, has good size and can really stroke the basketball. He'd be a nice addition in Phoenix.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Houston


Tyler Zeller
Position: C
Height: 7-foot
Weight: 235 pounds
Age: 22
School: North Carolina

Analysis: The Rockets' biggest need is in the middle and Zeller should be a solid option. Scouts don't think Zeller is going to be an All-Star someday, but he's big, he runs the floor very well and he has a great touch around the basket. Zeller should ultimately land somewhere between Picks 8 and 14.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Philadelphia


Arnett Moultrie
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-11
Weight: 225 pounds
Age: 21
School: Mississippi State

Analysis: The Sixers need big athletes and Moultrie might be a great fit. He's long and athletic, he rebounds and he can stretch the floor with his jumper. Moultrie could be one of the real sleepers in the draft.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Houston (via Knicks)


Terrence Jones
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 244 pounds
Age: 20
School: Kentucky

Analysis: Jones is a bit of an enigma. He could go as high as No. 7 or he could slide to here. No one doubts his talent; they're just not sure which position he would play in the pros and whether he'll be willing to put in the work to be great. At this point in the draft, though, he's worth the risk.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Dallas


Kendall Marshall
Position: PG
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 188 pounds
Age: 20
School: North Carolina

Analysis: With Jason Kidd 39 and a free agent and Rodrigue Beaubois more of a combo guard, Marshall would bring much of what Kidd brings to the table -- incredible court vision and size -- right away. He's not a great athlete or a great shooter, but he could keep Dirk and company happy.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Wolves (via Jazz)


Austin Rivers
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 199 pounds
Age: 19
School: Duke

Analysis: The Wolves' biggest need is at the 2 and Rivers could be a great get here. He can really shoot the basketball and has a killer crossover. He's going to have to get comfortable playing off the ball, but playing with Ricky Rubio could really help his game.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Orlando


Meyers Leonard
Position: C
Height: 7-foot
Weight: 240 pounds
Age: 20
School: Illinois

Analysis: The Magic are in serious danger of losing Dwight Howard in the next year. Leonard is a far cry from Howard, but he's big, he's athletic and he has shown some raw promise, especially on the defensive end.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Denver


Moe Harkless
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 190 pounds
Age: 18
School: St. John's

Analysis: The Nuggets don't have any glaring needs right now, which gives them the luxury of taking the best player left on the board. We've had Quincy Miller here the past few mock drafts, but there seems to be a growing consensus that Harkless might be the better prospect.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Boston


Fab Melo
Position: C
Height: 7-foot
Weight: 274 pounds
Age: 21
School: Syracuse

Analysis: The Celtics are in desperate need of size. While Melo is miles away from being ready, he is big and can block shots and rebound. If he stays focused and in shape, he could be good value here.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Boston (via Clippers)


Andrew Nicholson
Position: PF
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 222 pounds
Age: 22
School: St. Bonaventure

Analysis: Nicholson is another draft sleeper who may really rise with workouts. He's big stretch 4 who has drawn some comparisons to David West. He would be another welcome addition to the Celtics' summer makeover.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Atlanta


Tony Wroten Jr.
Position: PG
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 205 pounds
Age: 18
School: Washington

Analysis: The Hawks have been cursed at the point guard position ever since they decided to pass on Chris Paul to draft Marvin Williams. Wroten is no Paul, but he may have the most raw talent of any point guard in the draft. He's big, he's athletic and he can get to the basket. If his shot wasn't broken, and if he had a better rep as a teammate, he'd be a top-10 pick.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Cavs (via Lakers)


Quincy Miller
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 210 pounds
Age: 19
School: Baylor

Analysis: Miller is an enigma. He began the season as a top-10 prospect but struggled to overcome the effects of an ACL injury and never quite found his rhythm. If he finds his stride, this could be the steal of the draft for Cleveland.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Memphis


Evan Fournier
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-7
Weight: 206 pounds
Age: 19
School: France

Analysis: I'm hearing the Grizzlies are looking to stash a player over in Europe this year. Fournier, a scoring wing from France, is the best European prospect on the board.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Indiana


Marquis Teague
Position: PG
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 178 pounds
Age: 19
School: Kentucky

Analysis: Not only do the Pacers need more help at the point, but Teague is an Indy native who would be a great get here. He's not the pure point guard the Pacers really need, but he can push the ball effectively, get to the basket and create problems as a defender. Picking Teague could make Darren Collison a very interesting trade chip in July.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Miami


Draymond Green
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 235 pounds
Age: 22
School: Michigan State

Analysis: The Heat need players with experience who excel in bringing out the best in their teammates. Green can be a point-forward type who does a little of everything. Think of him as a better-passing Udonis Haslem.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Oklahoma City


Jeff Taylor
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-7
Weight: 225 pounds
Age: 22
School: Vanderbilt

Analysis: An elite athlete, Taylor can be a lockdown defender and has range on his jumper. He's probably undervalued at this point, but that happens to seniors. The Thunder will capitalize.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Chicago


John Jenkins
Position: SG
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 215 pounds
Age: 21
School: Vanderbilt

Analysis: The Bulls need a shooter and Jenkins has one of the best strokes in the draft. His super-quick release and ability to finish at the basket make him an interesting prospect here.

PICK TEAM PLAYER VITALS


Golden State
(via Spurs)


Royce White
Position: SF
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 240 pounds
Age: 20
School: Iowa State

Analysis: White, on talent alone, is a top-10 pick. But he's slipping a bit as teams worry that his anxiety disorder could disrupt his development. At Pick 30, he's worth the risk.

Thread still goin?


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Not sure if it'll copy right but..

1Green Bay Packers
LAST SEASON: 15-1 (first place NFC North)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: With impact players on both sides of the ball, the high-scoring Packers might actually have more stars on defense than offense in three years. This is especially true among their front seven, led by DT B.J. Raji and OLB Clay Matthews. The Packers' WR group is aging and the run game is inconsistent, but the Packers will continue to find quality weapons for QB Aaron Rodgers. -- Gary Horton

Quarterback: Right now, Rodgers plays the position about as well as we've seen it played. He's also only 28. That said, is Green Bay comfortable with the current backup situation of Graham Harrell and B.J. Coleman? Matt Flynn's absence at least creates the question. -- Trent Dilfer

Draft: The Packers worked hard to fix the front seven in the 2012 draft. How well they are able to draft pass-rushers will define the next few years, but this is an exceptional scouting department in which finding great value is routine. -- Mel Kiper

Front office: GM Ted Thompson heads a very efficient scouting staff and believes in building a team through the draft rather than spending a lot of money in free agency. What's more, the Packers often re-sign that in-house talent, using the open market only to fill specific needs. It's a model that promotes enduring success. -- Horton

Coaching: This coaching staff has great experience and stability and combines a blue-collar work ethic with extreme attention to detail. Nobody in the NFL teaches basic fundamentals like this staff, headed by Mike McCarthy. The Packers are creative and innovative on both sides of the ball, work well together and respect one another. This is a family atmosphere that coaches embrace and do not want to leave. -- Horton


2New England Patriots
LAST SEASON: 13-3 (first place AFC East)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Led by TEs Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez and LB Jerod Mayo, the Pats are absolutely loaded with young talent on both sides of the ball. Depending on QB Tom Brady, and quarterbacks are not relevant for this category's rating, New England should be among the best teams in the league for the foreseeable future. -- Matt Williamson

Quarterback: He'll be 35 in Week 1 of 2012, but Brady looks as comfortable as he has ever been. The tight ends are devastating, and now a deep threat has re-emerged. Beyond Brady, I really like Brian Hoyer, and Ryan Mallett lurks deep on the bench as an intriguing talent. The Pats are loaded here. -- Dilfer

Draft: More misses than people realize, but huge hits on Gronkowski and Hernandez -- which were actually risky picks -- changed the whole offense. Now, selections of DE Chandler Jones and LB Dont'a Hightower will help decide how we'll remember the final years of the Brady era. If the defense improves, more Super Bowl trips await. -- Kiper

Front office: The Patriots' "Front Office" is awfully similar to their Coaching category below. Of course everything here revolves around Bill Belichick, and few should doubt his ability to assemble a great NFL roster. -- Williamson

Coaching: Belichick is the best head coach in the league and has a tremendous ability to consistently find excellent assistant coaches. There is no reason whatsoever to think that will change down the road unless Belichick decides to hang it up. -- Williamson

3New York Giants
LAST SEASON: 9-7 (first place NFC East)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Today, this is a very solid roster with playmakers on both sides of the ball, but there will be some needs to fill in the next couple of years. The Giants will be young and competitive at WR with Victor Cruz, Hakeem Nicks & Co., but this is an old O-line and running back will need to be upgraded. On defense, they have stars in DE Jason Pierre-Paul and (I believe) CB Prince Amukamara to build around. -- Horton

Quarterback: He has the baby-brother look, but Eli Manning turns 32 this season, and since his 1-6 record as a rookie, he has started all 16 games in seven straight seasons. He has had his INT issues but is an elite passer when he gets comfortable with his targets. He has many good years ahead. -- Dilfer

Draft: Nicks and Pierre-Paul constitute back-to-back aced first-round picks in 2009 and 2010. They need to get more from Amukamara and hope RB David Wilson stays healthy. But adding major value while winning Super Bowls isn't easy. -- Kiper

Front office: Although senior vice president and GM Jerry Reese runs the show, there are several layers of accountability. Stability is critical, the roles are well defined, everybody is on the same page in player acquisitions and the coaches are encouraged to have moderate input. They have a philosophy they strongly believe in, and their decisions are not based on emotion and whimsical changes. -- Horton

Coaching: Tom Coughlin runs one of the most stable coaching staffs in the league. It is loaded with NFL veterans who have been with him for a long time, and the continuity is very impressive. This is not a flashy staff, but the coaches are very thorough and consistent. As long as Coughlin wants to coach, the Giants will have a stable situation. But he could retire in the next couple of years, and that could change everything. -- Horton

4 San Francisco 49ers
LAST SEASON: 13-3 (first place NFC West)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Right now the Niners' D is loaded with playmakers, and they will stay elite because of their front seven, led by ILBs Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman. On offense, they are young and improving along the offensive line, but they will need to restock their skill positions in the next couple of years. There are enough difference-makers capable of several years more of production to keep them very competitive. -- Horton

Quarterback: Alex Smith had his best season in the league last year but ranked just 22nd in QBR. Why? Well, Smith did his best work because he was so risk-averse. He limited interceptions, but often at the cost of holding on to the ball, taking a number of needless sacks. The jury is still out on him -- with the added weapons, if he's not better, San Fran must look for more, with Colin Kaepernick waiting in the wings. -- Dilfer

Draft: San Francisco is one of the better drafting teams in recent years. The roster looks strong at nearly every position group, and the fact that the 49ers are No. 4 in these rankings even with the limitations we've seen at QB is a testament to that. DE Aldon Smith (No. 7 pick, 2011) was a risk that paid off big. You like their chances because of solid, young talent in a number of spots. -- Kiper

Front office: Trent Baalke is a very astute general manager, and while he has final say on all personnel matters, he lets Jim Harbaugh and the coaching staff have major input. In the past there were too many voices in the front office, but now the chain of command is more clear-cut and simplified. They identify their needs well, and although they prefer to build through the draft, they are not afraid to spend in free agency. When they do, the Niners are very responsible with how they spend their money, and veteran free agents love the positive and energetic coaching staff. -- Horton

Coaching: These guys are at the top of the NFL in terms of teaching staffs, as reflected by their college coaching backgrounds. They are outstanding technicians, they pay tremendous attention to detail and they are very innovative in their schemes on both sides of the ball. Although they haven't been together a long time, there is tremendous loyalty to Harbaugh. They also have a nice blend of NFL coaching experience and young coaching enthusiasm. -- Horton

5Pittsburgh Steelers
LAST SEASON: 12-4 (second place AFC North)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Just when it looked like Pittsburgh was fielding a very old squad, the Steelers let go of some aged vets this past offseason and had a tremendous 2012 draft class. But many of the key defensive players, such as S Troy Polamalu, LB James Harrison and DE Brett Keisel, will be well past their primes in 2015. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Ben Roethlisberger has won more than 70 percent of his regular-season NFL starts and has two Super Bowls. He's also just 30 and should be playing behind a dramatically improved offensive line. He could put up his biggest statistical years yet in the next few seasons. -- Dilfer

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Draft: Physical players early, finesse value late -- that's been the recent formula. The offensive line could be a strength with the addition of four key pieces in the past three years. It should be a very good running team if it wants to be. WR Mike Wallace, at No. 84 in 2009, is easily one of the bigger steals in the past few years. Can they hang on to him after 2012? -- Kiper

Front office: The "Steeler Way" has been working extremely well for a long time, as Pittsburgh's front office evaluates college talent and its own players as well as any other team in the league. They are exceptional. -- Williamson

Coaching: I am 38 years old, and Mike Tomlin is just the third Steelers head coach I have seen in my lifetime. That pretty much sums it up. That is the Steelers' M.O., and it works. However, it will be interesting to see what the change to Todd Haley as offensive coordinator will bring. -- Williamson

6 Detroit Lions
LAST SEASON: 10-6 (second place NFC North)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Already competitive, Detroit has some stellar young playmakers. The duo of WR Calvin Johnson and QB Matthew Stafford should remain dynamic for years to come. If healthy, RBs Mikel Leshoure and Jahvid Best could give the Lions a strong run game, but there is work to be done on the O-line because of age. On defense, they have a deep D-line rotation with Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, which bodes well for the future, but the back end needs help. -- Horton

Quarterback: Stafford is perhaps the best young surgeon in the game. He just completed the best age-23 season since Dan Marino in 1984. We rave about Megatron, but look how well Stafford uses tight ends and moves his eyes to secondary and tertiary targets. He's an elite talent and will be just 27 in 2015. As long as he's healthy (and I don't buy the injury-prone stereotypes; Stafford's were fluky), you get the sense the offense will be. -- Dilfer

Draft: They have aced high picks in recent years, but GM Martin Mayhew now deals with the financial pitfalls of high picks that happened before new CBA. Detroit should be picking later for a while -- the Lions still love a great value even if the need isn't great (see: WR Ryan Broyles). -- Kiper

Front office: Mayhew has grown into one of the best front-office executives and evaluators in the NFL and oversees an aggressive scouting staff. Because coach Jim Schwartz has a scouting background, he appreciates the role of the scout, and that leads to good working relationships. The Lions are not afraid to spend money and acquire players through free agency or move assets to land their targets in trades or the draft. -- Horton

Coaching: On a very stable staff with a good sprinkling of veteran coaches and young energy, Schwartz has two coordinators, Scott Linehan on offense and Gunther Cunningham on defense, who have a lot of experience and know exactly what their boss wants. This used to be a dead-end destination for coaches, but that has changed. Detroit is now an organization that coaches want to not only work for but also stay with. -- Horton

7Philadelphia Eagles
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (second place NFC East)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Eagles do a great job of keeping their roster young and competitive by constantly turning it over, drafting well and making some smart free-agent decisions. Offensive skill players such as RB LeSean McCoy, their key wide receivers, a fairly young offensive line and a defensive line with a deep rotation of young players -- including a youthful group of linebackers -- will keep the roster elite. Questions must be answered down the line about the secondary. -- Horton

Quarterback: Michael Vick turns 32 this summer, has played in 16 games in exactly one of his nine NFL seasons and is described as everything from a potential MVP to a guy who will get his coach fired. It's fair to say he has a ton of talent, but we don't know what we're going to get. This could be his final season in Philly, long-term extension or not. -- Dilfer

Draft: A remarkably good draft in 2012 could shore up the defense and make the Eagles Super Bowl contenders. If Vick has any health issues, is Nick Foles the next guy in line? You never know what they'll do at that spot. But they have a system, draft very well and, at least based on my board, maintain a really strong sense of value and how to maneuver. -- Kiper

Front office: The Eagles own a well-run and well-defined front office in terms of responsibilities. GM Howie Roseman is not a traditional football guy, but he has a good group of scouts and lets them do their job while Joe Banner manages the business side. Coach Andy Reid has a lot of personnel input, and the Eagles are not afraid to be aggressive in free agency if needed. They also do an excellent job of re-signing their players to keep their core group together. -- Horton

Coaching: A veteran coaching staff with tremendous loyalty to Reid is rarely looking for other jobs. It is an excellent teaching staff, and Reid really understands his assistants' strengths and weaknesses. The only thing to worry about in this category is if Reid, who has been in Philadelphia a long time, says "enough is enough" and retires. -- Horton

8New Orleans Saints
LAST SEASON: 13-3 (first place NFC South)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The guys they will build around in the future are TE Jimmy Graham and RB Mark Ingram, but the defense is not as solid. Age and a lack of difference-makers are real problems. -- Horton

Quarterback: Last year, Drew Brees, for the most part, kicked a pretty bad interception issue from 2010. There's no question about how far he can take this team, but in a season in which his value should be tested more than ever, his contract issue looms. And there's no viable backup plan.-- Dilfer

Draft: Average to below-average results in the past three drafts are a concern. Now, some of that is a volume issue, but in assessing the future, you can't add talent if you lack the picks. The 2012 draft was wiped out by the deal to get Ingram plus the bounty scandal. The Saints have a lot of ground to make up. A big year from DE Cameron Jordan would help. -- Kiper

Front office: The upside for the Saints in these future rankings is that they won't have to deal with the looming bounty suspensions that include GM Mickey Loomis. The Saints have done a nice job in free agency and have maintained the core of their veteran producers. Director of college scouting Rick Reiprish does a nice job of keeping things organized. The Saints have had a model front office in the past, but how well will they cope with what promises to be a turbulent 2012 season? -- Horton

Coaching: When it's intact, this is a strong coaching staff, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Presumably it will again be led by coach Sean Payton beyond this season, but new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will give that side of the ball a nice infusion of ideas. -- Horton

9Houston Texans
LAST SEASON: 10-6 (first place AFC South)


The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Texans have an excellent young defense that should remain strong for years to come. But the offense worries me, particularly the receivers, as WR Andre Johnson and TE Owen Daniels probably will not be nearly as effective three years from now. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Matt Schaub is a perfect fit in the Houston scheme; no player throws a better deep ball in the play-action game. Playoff success will allow him to take the next step in terms of his league profile. T.J. Yates proved he's a good insurance policy, but he also proved that the Houston coaches have a system that they feel is transferrable. If they can run it effectively, QBs will succeed here. -- Dilfer

Draft: Houston has helped spearhead a defensive revival under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips through the draft. Phillips has a system he likes, and he can target specific skills but also maximize value, because he gives so many looks and use different players. Can DE Whitney Mercilus make up for the loss of Mario Williams? The 2012 draft could have several steals, and the future looks bright. -- Kiper

Front office: Houston seems to have a real good feel now for what type of player it needs on both sides of the ball and is finding value in the middle rounds that fit its schemes. But this past free agency period didn't go all that well, which made me question how well the Texans will manage the change from a team in a rebuilding phase to a contender plugging gaps via free agency. -- Williamson

Coaching: Gary Kubiak's team finally surpassed mediocrity last season. There are a lot of pieces in place to continue to establish the Texans as an AFC powerhouse. Let's see how well this coaching staff deals with success. The hiring of Phillips as defensive coordinator yielded amazing first-year results, and Phillips should continue to field a top-notch defense over the next few years. -- Williamson

10Baltimore Ravens
LAST SEASON: 12-4 (first place AFC North)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Some of the best Ravens players are up in age, but they also have some young stars such as CB Lardarius Webb. And this team always drafts extremely well. I can't see Baltimore's overall talent level dropping off drastically any time soon, even once LB Ray Lewis and S Ed Reed retire. -- Williamson

Quarterback: He draws his share of ire, but Joe Flacco is just 27, has started 64 consecutive NFL games, hasn't had major weapons and has a 44-20 record. He was a dropped pass from a Super Bowl appearance last season. Is this so bad? -- Dilfer

Draft: No team consistently delivers as much value. Webb (No. 88 overall, 2009) and DE Pernell McPhee (No. 165, 2011) are recent steals. And that's after getting your franchise quarterback at No. 18 and your franchise running back at No. 55 in the same 2008 draft. Ozzie Newsome is a Hall of Famer … in the front office, too. The Ravens face some big personnel losses on defense coming soon, but few are better equipped to move on. -- Kiper

Front office: The Ravens get it. They have one of the best front offices in the NFL and prove it year after year. There is no reason to think this will change any time soon. -- Williamson

Coaching: The Ravens have found a fantastic head coach in John Harbaugh, who should be a stalwart in that spot for years to come. Once again, though, Baltimore has a new defensive coordinator in Dean Pees, as that has been a revolving door for future head coaches. The loss of LB Terrell Suggs will test Pees' abilities early. -- Williamson

11Cincinnati Bengals
LAST SEASON: 9-7 (third place AFC North)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: It appears as though the Bengals have landed two exceptional back-to-back draft classes, adding QB Andy Dalton, WR A.J. Green and a deep and very talented crop in 2012. In a year or two, it is conceivable that Cincinnati will have as good a roster as any team in the league. In 2015, I expect Detroit's Calvin Johnson and Green to be the best wide receivers in all of football -- which really isn't all that much different than 2012. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Dalton quietly had an exceptional rookie season. Only Cam Newton diminished it. He has maintained a mature approach that we saw when he was at TCU; he gets deep into his reads, has an accurate arm and should continue to get better. If they can run it a little better, this offense will take a big leap. -- Dilfer

Draft: The 2011 draft (Dalton and Green) could set the tone for the franchise for years. And the Carson Palmer trade turned into lots of value this year. The Bengals are quietly one of the best young rosters in the league. -- Kiper

Front office: Perhaps the Bengals' front office has turned the corner in a big way after its hard work these past two years. We shall see, but hopefully this team doesn't resort back to its old ways. It looks very promising. -- Williamson

Coaching: Marvin Lewis has been at this post for a long time and should remain in control of a Bengals squad that is loaded with terrific young talent. Lewis and his staff have done an admirable job. -- Williamson

12Carolina Panthers
LAST SEASON: 6-10 (third place NFC South)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Because of Cam Newton at QB there is a perception that this is a young roster, but the reality is there are not a lot of young stars to build around. This is a veteran offensive line, and their best playmaker, WR Steve Smith, doesn't have a lot of years left. The RB position needs upgrading. On defense, the Panthers have some quality youth on the defensive line and young LB Luke Kuechly seems to be a guy they can build around. -- Horton

Quarterback: Carolina's rise on this list is due to Newton. He had the best rookie season ever, from a statistical standpoint, and his work ethic isn't a question. He has an incredibly high ceiling. People simply didn't realize the kind of arm talent he had. -- Dilfer

Draft: Newton could turn into the pick of the decade. His brilliant rookie season makes people forget how much we still didn't know when he was taken. The 2012 draft -- Luke Kuechly, DE Frank Alexander and CB Josh Norman specifically -- should invigorate the defense. If the defense improves, they can contend in the NFC South. -- Kiper

Front office: GM Marty Hurney seems to have the final voice on personnel matters and he has the trust of owner Jerry Richardson. He also has a better relationship with coach Ron Rivera than he did with John Fox. This is a veteran scouting staff with a trusted voice in college scouting director Don Gregory. They prefer to build through the draft, but they will make a free-agent move to fill a specific need. -- Horton

Coaching: A new, but strong coaching staff really seems to be headed in the right direction. They have two qualified coordinators, Rob Chudzinski on offense and Sean McDermott on defense, that have excelled at developing their talent. Chudzinski especially has done a nice job with Newton. With success on the horizon there is not likely to be a lot of turnover. -- Horton

13Atlanta Falcons
LAST SEASON: 10-6 (second place NFC South)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Falcons have a more veteran roster than you might think. With the exception of QB Matt Ryan and WR Julio Jones, Atlanta will have a much different look in the next couple of years. On defense, it is difficult to come up with a name they can rally around. The draft will be essential to replenishing the depth chart. -- Horton

Quarterback: Ryan must take the next step. His ceiling remains a question because of playoff issues, but he has a lot of talent. He could explode if Atlanta allows him more control. He has the Tom Brady, Peyton Manning intelligence. -- Dilfer

Draft: Jones looks like a draft risk that will pan out at WR, but the pick of Ryan in 2008 is what keeps the Falcons in the middle of the pack for recent draft results. It has been hit-and-miss beyond him. Improving the Falcons' blocking was the goal for the 2012 draft. -- Kiper

Front office: GM Thomas Dimitroff comes from the Bill Belichick coaching tree and runs a scouting department with clearly defined parameters in terms of the specific traits they look for in players. In this organization, everybody has a voice and that leads to consensus building. -- Horton

Coaching: We think of Atlanta as a very stable staff and yet they go to the 2012 season with new coordinators on both sides of the ball, with Dirk Koetter on offense and Mike Nolan on defense, both NFL veterans. Mike Smith is a guy that coaches seem to want to work for. Staff loyalty seems good and they don't panic or overreact when facing challenges. -- Horton

14Dallas Cowboys
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (third place NFC East)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Age is a concern. And unless they do a good job in free agency and the draft, the talent level will drop off in the next couple of years. They should remain fairly young at WR and RB, and they seem to be rebuilding their offensive line. Defensively, they are not very young and their best playmaker of the future will be rookie CB Morris Claiborne, but a lot of replacements are needed. -- Horton

Quarterback: Tony Romo is perhaps the NFL's most underrated QB. Given protection, he'll put up big numbers, period. Romo can play hurt, but adding Kyle Orton to the roster gives Dallas one of the NFL's best QB situations. -- Dilfer

Draft: The Jerry Jones-led war room has an unpredictable streak, but the Cowboys' great need picks -- in T Tyron Smith and Claiborne in back-to-back years -- tells me they may have toned it down. The 2009 draft was bad, but they've had good results since. -- Kiper

Front office: Jones may be the most involved owner in the NFL, in terms of player personnel, and every decision goes through him. Although his son, Stephen, continues to take a bigger role in day to day operations. Scouting director Tom Ciskowski is a blue-collar, well-respected guy. They will do whatever it takes to attract players in free agency and aggressively upgrade their roster. -- Horton

Coaching: Not always a real patient organization under Jones, the Cowboys' expectations are so high that if success isn't immediate there can be turnover. However, because this is such a high-profile team with a chance to win every year, they also attract the top coaches in the business and you get the feeling that things have stabilized now that coach Jason Garrett is more comfortable and he has two big-time coordinators, Bill Callahan (offense) and Rob Ryan (defense). The group in Dallas may stay together for a while … if they succeed in the present. -- Horton

15San Diego Chargers
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (second place AFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Chargers have some promising youth at running back, wide receiver, linebacker and defensive line, but the offensive line really has me worried -- and rebuilding a front five isn't easy to pull off. I would also like to see some defensive star power emerge. DE Melvin Ingram could be exactly that type of addition. -- Williamson

Quarterback: The 2011 campaign was a crossroads season for Philip Rivers. Now 30, this coming season could help define the direction for his career. He hasn't won a playoff game since 2008, even as he has put up big numbers. I expect him to bounce back from a 20-INT 2011, but he needs help -- TE Antonio Gates can't play forever. -- Dilfer

Draft: The 2010 draft will be called a bust if RB Ryan Mathews can't become a true No. 1 back. But 2011 and 2012 have served to add depth and potentially a difference-maker or two. If Ingram becomes a star, don't be surprised. -- Kiper

Front office: The Chargers' front office has come under a lot of scrutiny of late -- and deserved much of it. I have mixed feelings for how well this team is built for three years down the road. And where will Rivers be at that point? -- Williamson

Coaching: Norv Turner, a great offensive mind, is perennially on the hot seat as head coach. He needs to put together an impressive season in 2012 or we could certainly see someone new roaming the sidelines in San Diego. -- Williamson

16New York Jets
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (second place AFC East)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Jets have some true star power, boasting several players that are among the very best at their position. But age could set in on players, including C Nick Mangold, CB Darrelle Revis and WR Santonio Holmes, by 2015 if they don't replenish well during these upcoming draft classes. -- Williamson

Quarterback: I still love the potential and talent of Mark Sanchez, but this situation is bordering on toxic. He doesn't have elite talent to throw to, and the offense won't show off a QB's skills. It's do-or-die time in New York, though he could still succeed elsewhere. -- Dilfer

Draft: I wasn't a fan of the 2012 draft, but DE Quinton Coples could fit the scheme, and WR Stephen Hill could prove me wrong and show early returns. This roster lacks pass-rushers and difference-makers on offense. -- Kiper

Front office: New York has a real boom-or-bust front office. Such aggressive moves by GM Mike Tannenbaum can pay off huge or really hurt the club. The Jets have some truly elite players, but also still have some big holes -- and depth overall is a worry here. The pressure is on. -- Williamson

Coaching: Rex Ryan has done a very good job overall as the Jets' head coach and there is no question that he can coach up the defensive side of the ball as well as anyone. Ryan has brought in Tony Sparano to run the offense, which should mean plenty of running and an emphasis on physicality. Still, the coaching staff's biggest challenge will be managing the QB situation, which I expect to be the overall downfall of this organization. -- Williamson

17Chicago Bears
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (third place NFC North)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: This isn't a roster stocked with young difference-makers, and that will be a challenge going forward with age a factor on every level. They do have a couple of decent young OTs and a pair of decent safeties, but at every other position, guys are closer to the end than the beginning and the backups aren't players who excite. This looks like a roster that could fall apart as veterans retire unless they do a great job in the draft. -- Horton

Quarterback: Jay Cutler is capable of leading a Super Bowl team, but he desperately needs blocking help in Chicago. He has elite arm talent, is great against the pressure and toughness isn't a question. Jason Campbell gives them insurance they didn't have before. -- Dilfer

Draft: Weak recent returns underscored by two straight years (2009-2010) without a pick in the first two rounds. It's created a roster with major age concerns on the defense. Offensive line remains a concern for me. There wasn't a single draft pick used there in 2012. -- Kiper

Front office: With the hiring of former Kansas City college director Phil Emery as GM, the philosophy of this front office will change. Emery will build this team through the draft, listen to head coach Lovie Smith and they will be a little more conservative in player acquisitions than the team has been in the past when chasing a Super Bowl title led to hit-and-miss spending on high-profile free agents. This front office should develop nicely. -- Horton

Coaching: Smith has a loyal coaching staff and his best quality is that he does not have a big ego. He never seemed comfortable with offensive coordinator Mike Martz, but he will be in step with Martz's replacement, Mike Tice. Ditto on defense with coordinator Rod Marinelli. Smith treats his assistants with dignity and this is a good working environment, but there is pressure to win more games now. -- Horton

18Denver Broncos
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (first place AFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: LB Von Miller should be among the best defensive players in the NFL in 2015, but overall, I don't see a wealth of real young talent on Denver's roster. This past draft was marginal, as I don't see an immediate starter in the group. -- Williamson

Quarterback: His full recovery isn't yet complete, but Peyton Manning looks good. There's no real debate: fully healthy, he gives Denver one of the best handful of QBs in the NFL. The shelf-life is a question, but at 36, Manning can give them several elite years. Brock Osweiler awaits, though he needs time. -- Dilfer

Draft: Still amazing that Tim Tebow went in Round 1, but Miller was a home run the following year. It's all about maximizing the three to four years of the Peyton Manning tenure now. -- Kiper

Front office: John Elway is new at this and the jury is still out, but you have to commend this front office for bringing in a Hall of Fame quarterback to lead the team. How will this team look in 2015 without Manning? Who knows. But by making a bold move in adding Manning they've earned my faith that they can properly manage that hurdle when the time comes. -- Williamson

Coaching: John Fox is an established and respected head coach who adjusted his offense for his quarterback last season and should do the same with a much better QB in 2012. Fox seems like an excellent fit in Denver now and for years ahead. -- Williamson

19Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LAST SEASON: 4-12 (fourth place NFC South)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: There is youth on this roster due to pretty good recent drafts, and that bodes well for the future. They are in good shape at the offensive skill positions with some work to do on the offensive line. On defense, they are young and talented in the front four, but there is a lot of work to do in the back seven. The player they can build around is rookie safety Mark Barron. -- Horton

Quarterback: With 40 regular-season starts under his belt, it's easy to forget Josh Freeman is still 24. He forced things last year and piled up 22 INTs, but should improve dramatically as he doesn't try to force things for a team going nowhere. That was the story in 2011. -- Dilfer

Draft: Below-average returns over the past two years, but with promise still out there. If Freeman bounces back, he rescues the 2008 draft. The 2012 could be star-studded, as Barron, RB Doug Martin and LB Lavonte David could all be immediate starters. -- Kiper

Front office: This organization changed its course this offseason as it freely spent money on game-changing free agents. The Bucs also are good at re-signing their own players, which helps keep a happy locker room. The front office and coaching staff really know their personnel and that helps the Bucs in attracting the right players. GM Mark Dominik and his scouting staff work well with the coaches, and Dominik leans on personnel director Dennis Hickey for input. -- Horton

Coaching: With head coach Greg Schiano coming from the college ranks, this coaching staff has a real teaching element to it and they will demand discipline and attention to detail from the players. There are not a lot of high-profile names here and the coordinators are not necessarily well known, but you get the feeling that Schiano will oversee every facet of this staff, much like Belichick does. -- Horton

20Washington Redskins
LAST SEASON: 5-11 (fourth place NFC East)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Obviously, this future will be built around rookie QB Robert Griffin III. The challenge will be to surround him with talent on both sides of the ball with limited high draft picks. Washington doesn't have a lot of young, talented guys at the offensive skill positions. The Redskins tried to upgrade the passing game in free agency and TE Fred Davis is a solid player. On defense, age is a real problem and with the exception of young edge rushers Brian Orakpo and Ryan Kerrigan, upgrades will be needed. -- Horton

Quarterback: RG3 is the man in D.C., and his skill set is tailor made for Mike Shanahan's scheme, as it's based on movement and the ability to throw the ball down the field. I expect him to succeed, but he must, because the Skins will suffer in other areas given the price to acquire him. -- Dilfer

Draft: After years of dealing picks, I loved the haul Washington got in 2011, even though they dealt an incredible amount for RG3. Let's face it, he becomes a one-man measure of their draft success for roughly three years. -- Kiper

Front office: When it comes to making personnel decisions there are two voices in this organization, GM Bruce Allen and Coach Shanahan. Owner Dan Snyder is also very involved, but he will defer to Allen and Shanahan. Washington will spend if it needs to and will go in any direction to improve its personnel if it will help the team win. -- Horton

Coaching: This is Shanahan's coaching staff in every sense and all coaching decisions go through him, although he gives a lot of freedom to offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator Jim Haslett. He supports his coaches consistently, which leads to tremendous loyalty. Mike Shanahan has had some testy player relationships in the past, but things have smoothed out and, with a new QB to build around, this looks like a stable coaching staff in the future. -- Horton

21Seattle Seahawks
LAST SEASON: 7-9 (third place NFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Pete Carroll has turned this roster over more than any other team in the NFL trying to find the right mix of players. As a result, they are at the top of the NFL in terms of youth, which bodes well for the future. They have a solid nucleus to build around along the offensive line with LT Russell Okung, T John Moffitt and C Max Unger. On defense, they have young talent sprinkled in on all three levels. Their depth is also very promising. This looks like a team that could be good for a while. -- Horton

Quarterback: The Seahawks' QB situation could be effectively described as "hopeful." If Flynn is what he showed in brief opportunities in Green Bay, Seattle is a contender because the roster is well-constructed elsewhere. If he isn't, then do you hope Russell Wilson is the answer? -- Dilfer

Draft: They're fuzzy on board value, but Seattle has hit on picks, including some late-round steals such as CB Richard Sherman and S Kam Chancellor. They'll be motivated to make sure surprise pick DE Bruce Irvin becomes a star in this system. -- Kiper

Front office: Led by Carroll and GM John Schneider, this is an aggressive group unafraid to make player moves and turn over this roster. This group will do whatever it takes to improve its personnel. -- Horton

Coaching: The turnover in the team roster has been mirrored in the coaching staff during in the first years of Carroll's tenure. But they now seem to be more comfortable under offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell, as he starts the second year. There is a little more stability on defense, with which Carroll is deeply involved, and he seems to trust coordinator Gus Bradley. Still, this is not a place where you can rest on your laurels because Carroll will always be willing to make changes and shake things up. -- Horton

22Buffalo Bills
LAST SEASON: 6-10 (fourth place AFC East)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Bills made great strides in improving their roster through free agency, acquiring DE Mario Williams, and with a strong draft for this upcoming season and beyond. I still have my share of doubts about QB, but that position is excluded from this category. The defense could be elite, and is young behind players such as DT Marcell Dareus and CB Stephon Gilmore. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Will we see the Ryan Fitzpatrick of September, or the Ryan Fitzpatrick of November? Fully healthy, he could bounce back. If he's the answer, Buffalo is on the rise. Not 30 until November, he has time to perform. He has to stop the bad INTs. -- Dilfer

Draft: Can RB C.J. Spiller, Dareus and now Gilmore help us forget the whiff that was DE Aaron Maybin? I like their chances. Buffalo is headed in the right direction. -- Kiper

Front office: As proven this past offseason, the Bills' front office is doing a lot of things right of late. It should stay in place over the next few years and continue to strengthen an emerging roster. Finding the quarterback of the future will be a pivotal move for this group. -- Williamson

Coaching: Chan Gailey has done a very good job for the Bills and should be safe going forward. He has a good reputation for developing quarterbacks, which could be the next big project on his agenda after this season. On defense, Dave Wannstedt looks like an excellent candidate to oversee their transition to a 4-3 scheme, and he has a great cast with which to work. -- Williamson

23Tennessee Titans
LAST SEASON: 9-7 (second place AFC South)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Titans' young defense should be strong in a couple years, but is lacking true superstars. The WR position could be superb, but there should be worries about RB Chris Johnson and perhaps the Titans' excellent offensive tackles, Michael Roos and David Stewart, by that point. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Is Jake Locker the answer? Can his elite skill set translate to elite performance? Can the accuracy issues that have followed him for the past five years improve? Those are the questions, and they'll determine the outlook for Tennessee in the next three years. -- Dilfer

Draft: Locker will hold the fortunes of the draft grade. He was a value question at No. 8 overall, but Tennessee has been very smart in the developmental process. Now with WRs Kenny Britt and Kendall Wright, will Locker prove he was worth that spot? -- Kiper

Front office: I like how this team is being built and Locker now looks to be in an excellent position to succeed going forward. Tennessee's front office probably doesn't get the credit it has deserved of late. -- Williamson

Coaching: Mike Munchak should be able to put more of his thumbprint on the Titans in 2012. It's a key season in his development as a head coach, as well as for the franchise with Locker ready to take over behind center. -- Williamson

24St. Louis Rams
LAST SEASON: 2-14 (fourth place NFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: Despite high picks, misses in the draft mean there aren't a lot of stars of the future on board (outside of QB). There is some hope at the offensive tackle position, but age at RB and lack of talent at WR limits the offense's future production. On defense there is some youth and skill in the front seven, but unless the Rams really draft well in the next couple of years they won't contend. -- Horton

Quarterback: Sam Bradford regressed last year in a new offense, and with deteriorated blocking in front of him. He has great physical ability, vision and arm talent, but he must prove he can lead a team to wins, not merely be an average QB in the NFL. -- Dilfer

Draft: The Rams are in position to dominate the draft over the next two years, when they have four total first-round picks. The 2013 draft, however, will be huge. The Rams need some serious returns after dealing away the No. 2 pick. -- Kiper

Front office: New GM Les Snead replaces Billy Devaney, and while he has a solid scouting background from his years with Atlanta, all final decisions will likely come from Jeff Fisher and COO Kevin Demoff. Snead comes from the Thomas Dimitroff scouting tree, which means there is a Belichick influence here. There could be several changes ahead as Snead settles in. -- Horton

Coaching: Fisher is a coaches' coach who everybody wants to work for. However, he has a huge challenge on his hands with the indefinite loss of defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. Fisher has excellent veteran assistants to take up the slack and owns a strong defensive mind himself. It's a challenge that they can overcome both in the short and long term. -- Horton

25Kansas City Chiefs
LAST SEASON: 7-9 (fourth place AFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: With the exception of the QB position, which doesn't factor in with this category, I love the Chiefs' young group of high-end talent in players such as S Eric Berry, TE Tony Moeaki and LB Justin Houston. They are loaded going forward and I think coach Romeo Crennel & Co. will make a star out of NT Dontari Poe. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Matt Cassel was actually very good in 2010. Note the 27-7 TD-to-INT ratio. But he's back to proving if he's a franchise QB in 2012, and has to, given his contract situation and a loaded 2013 draft for QBs. -- Dilfer

Draft: A return to health for Berry will mean a lot, given they've had some weak returns from high draft picks in recent years, such as DEs Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson. Poe is the guy to watch; he's a boom-or-bust pick. -- Kiper

Front office: GM Scott Pioli & Co. have built a team that is dripping with young talent. But if Cassel isn't a true franchise quarterback -- and I have serious doubts that he is -- the Chiefs might not ever get to where they want to be. -- Williamson

Coaching: Crennel is a great defensive mind, and he needs to show that he is just as capable as a head coach. The Chiefs get a ton of talent back from last year and Crennel & Co. need to capitalize upon it immediately. -- Williamson

26Arizona Cardinals
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (second place NFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The depth is not where it needs to be and there are not enough young difference-makers to give a lot of hope for the future. CB Patrick Peterson is a star in the making and there is hope that rookie WR Michael Floyd steps into that category, but options are limited. Their brightest playmaker, WR Larry Fitzgerald, may be at the top of his game for only a couple more years. -- Horton

Quarterback: We really don't know anything yet on Kevin Kolb's ability. The Cardinals are trying to add enough talent to make sure they find out if he's the real deal, but John Skelton was actually more successful than Kolb in 2011. If Kolb doesn't pan out, it's an appealing location for QBs. -- Dilfer

Draft: Peterson looks set to be a star, but he's the only Pro Bowl player they've hit on since CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in 2008. Floyd must become a major contributor for Arizona at WR, as the 2009-2010 drafts have been pretty light on returns. -- Kiper

Front office: GM Rod Graves has the final say on all personnel matters, but one of his best attributes is listening to others in the organization before he makes a final decision. He works well with the coaching staff and they listen to VP of player personnel Steve Keim. Team president Michael Bidwell stays involved and is willing to give them the resources to upgrade their personnel in free agency or the draft. This is not the same conservative Cardinals' front office from the past. -- Horton

Coaching: While Ken Whisenhunt has his blueprints on both sides of the ball he has two coordinators, Mike Miller on offense and Ray Horton on defense, growing into their roles. The coaches' roles are clear and on defense the players are finally settling in to Horton's philosophy. When Arizona loses a coach, it's usually due to a promotion from another team. -- Horton

27Indianapolis Colts
LAST SEASON: 2-14 (fourth place AFC South)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: With the exception of WR Reggie Wayne, DE Robert Mathis and DE Dwight Freeney, it's all ahead of the Colts. Their draft class was excellent -- at least on offense. And I expect Indianapolis to select near the top of the draft next season again. Let's see how the talent around QB Andrew Luck develops. -- Williamson

Quarterback: We were ready to excuse a really tough first year for Luck, but the Colts showed a major commitment to adding pieces around him in the draft. I think Luck has the maturity, smarts and arm talent to be successful right away. He is a rare, rare player. -- Dilfer

Draft: Poor recent results (including weak draft classes) led them to the No. 1 pick in 2012. Recent history has them in the lower third of teams in terms of adding talent, but Luck could change everything. -- Kiper

Front office: It's very hard to judge this front office from the tiny body of work we have seen to date, but I do commend them for surrounding Luck with a wealth of young talent. Now let's see how all this young talent matures together. And there is the matter of this defense. … -- Williamson

Coaching: Everything is new in Indianapolis. There looks to be a strong blend of offensive and defensive coaching, but it's anyone's guess how they will all blend together, especially with a roster that still needs a ton of work. There will be serious growing pains as the Colts institute new schemes on both sides of the ball under new head coach Chuck Pagano. -- Williamson

28Miami Dolphins
LAST SEASON: 6-10 (third place AFC East)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: There are certainly some long-term pieces in place here, such as LT Jake Long and a solid group of defensive tackles, but overall this is a rebuilding team that needs much more. A few of Miam's defensive players, such as LB Karlos Dansby, could be past their prime three years from now and they currently are far from rich with WR talent. -- Williamson

Quarterback: The suspicion is Matt Moore will start for Miami in Week 1. Moore can win, but he's limited and options at wide receiver are scarce. Ryan Tannehill has talent, but the tape says he has a ton of development left. There's no reason to rush him, which lowers their three-year profile. -- Dilfer

Draft: It will be a major setback for Miami if Tannehill doesn't become a very good NFL quarterback. Offensive line picks have been the highlights, with Long (2008) and C Mike Pouncey (2011) both Pro Bowl-caliber players. -- Kiper

Front office: Everything about this organization revolves around the development and maturation of Tannehill because the Dolphins haven't done a very good job of attracting free-agent talent. As it stands right now, there can't be a ton of confidence in Miami's personnel people. -- Williamson

Coaching: Joe Philbin will bring the Packers' way of doing things to the Dolphins. But unfortunately he will not have Rodgers to pull it off in Miami. The Dolphins will also try to bring a very fast-paced offense that teams run in college to this level. It will certainly be interesting. -- Williamson

29 Oakland Raiders
LAST SEASON: 8-8 (third place AFC West)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: With little in terms of 2012 draft picks, the Raiders' new coaching staff was severely hampered in its ability to acquire their type of players. It's going to be a real uphill climb in that regard and you have to think that DT Richard Seymour and RB Darren McFadden will have little value three years down the road. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Palmer is a gifted thrower of the football but is still prone to mistakes. He needs to be very good for the Raiders to succeed with a limited supporting cast at receiver, or they could draft a QB to develop next season. Do people realize Palmer is just a year older than Eli Manning? -- Dilfer

Draft: The Raiders have quietly landed a ton of late-round value in recent years. But no Round 1 picks in two straight years (2011, 2012) basically costs a team two starters and the potential for stars. A new front office promises major changes. I have a lot of confidence in this program going forward, and fans should as well. -- Kiper

Front office: It looks like the Raiders have the right people in place and this front office did quite a bit without any cards in their hand this offseason. There is a much different way of doing things now in terms of player evaluations in Oakland and if given time -- maybe a lot of time -- it should pay off down the road. -- Williamson

Coaching: With a new coaching staff in place you would think they would be safe for a while, but this is the Raiders we are talking about. Still, this coaching staff remains an unknown at the present. -- Williamson

30Jacksonville Jaguars
LAST SEASON: 5-11 (third place AFC South)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: This offense is all about RB Maurice Jones-Drew, though it's likely that his play will have tailed off significantly by 2015. There are a few young guys on this roster who should be playing at a high level at that time, such as WR Justin Blackmon, T Eugene Monroe and CB Derek Cox, but it's not an elite core of young talent. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Blaine Gabbert wasn't ready last year, and the Jags didn't have the pieces to make him look ready. There's a legit question if he should start over Chad Henne to begin the 2012 season. They've added pass-catchers, but this is a giant question mark hanging over the franchise. -- Dilfer

Draft: Occasionally confounding, the Jags did it again this year, picking punter Bryan Anger in the third round. They've actually nailed some defensive picks, but if Gabbert doesn't improve immensely, the overall grade is pretty poor. Common trend: You can pick well, but you're defined by whether you get a franchise QB. -- Kiper

Front office: The Jaguars love to mine small schools for gems, but overall, these past two draft classes have lent themselves to serious scrutiny. Progress needs to be shown immediately here, even though this front office has built what looks like a high-end defense. -- Williamson

Coaching: There is a new group of coaches now in Jacksonville, with Mike Mularkey at the helm. Unless the QB situation improves dramatically, which it could, this new group might not be around for long. -- Williamson

31Minnesota Vikings
LAST SEASON: 3-13 (fourth place NFC North)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: The Vikings have tried for years to "reload" with veteran free agents because they thought that they had Super Bowl-caliber talent. That process stunted the development of young players and now their personnel is old and in need of replacing. On defense, there is virtually no impact youth to build around unless this year's rookie, S Harrison Smith, becomes that guy. On offense, TE Kyle Rudolph, WR Percy Harvin (if healthy) and rookie LT Matt Kalil could form a solid nucleus in the future. -- Horton

Quarterback: Christian Ponder looked like a rookie last year. He has a good set of tools, but there are legit questions about his ceiling. He has some odd tendencies, such as a great ability to throw on the run, but pocket pressure really hampers him. He'll need to show development or Minny could be back to square one. -- Dilfer

Draft: The 2010 draft was a weak one, but it's the 2011 draft that will define them. If Ponder doesn't become a franchise QB, they'll have high picks in years to come. -- Kiper

Front office: The roles in this organization are finally much better defined than in the past and with Rick Spielman making all the final calls as GM it will be a smoother front office. College scouting director Scott Studwell organizes the draft and oversees a strong scouting staff that will be leaned on heavily as the Vikings continue to clean out veterans and rebuild through the draft. -- Horton

Coaching: Head coach Leslie Frazier seems to be growing into his job and the stability of this staff has improved, especially on the offensive side of the ball under coordinator Bill Musgrave. Defensively, there has been more change, but with Alan Williams being assisted by Frazier the Vikings hope they've gotten it right. More victories need to come quickly as the staff faces the pressures of an organization that thinks the team is better than it really is. -- Horton

32Cleveland Browns
LAST SEASON: 4-12 (fourth place AFC North)
The bar graphs reflect the average rating given by the voters for each category.
Category averages are weighted by importance to generate overall score.

Roster: RB Trent Richardson should be the best running back in the league in 2015 and young stars like LT Joe Thomas, DE Jabaal Sheard and CB Joe Haden should be in their prime. But there is still a lot of uncertainty with the Browns' roster for the long term. -- Williamson

Quarterback: Brandon Weeden has talent, but Cleveland will want to play him right away. The concern is if he struggles early. He's older, but will they be patient with him if he takes time to adjust to the NFL game like most rookies? He doesn't have more physical experience, just years. Bottom line: This is a totally unsettled situation headed into 2012. -- Dilfer

Draft: If Weeden doesn't pan out -- and they probably feel compelled to know soon -- the Browns will be set back. The draft isn't the reason they're this low; the Browns have made some really good picks. The problem is they're still waiting on a good QB pick. It's been a long time since they've had one. Weeden needs to be the answer, or they're running in place. -- Kiper

Front office: Color me skeptical of the Browns' front office -- and this organization isn't exactly patient. Cleveland's front office is now directly tied to Weeden's future success. I can't say that is the perfect position to be in. -- Williamson

Coaching: Since rejoining the league, few teams have had turnover comparable to the Browns. So if things don't improve in the very near future, what are the chances that this current staff retains its jobs for the next few years? Brad Childress has taken over the offensive coordinator job. With Richardson now to lean on, expect Childress to run the ball much more than the Browns did in 2011. -- Williamson

ty good sir

hey guys any insider news on raiders selling the team?