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NFL: 5 best bets to be new playoff teams in 2014

By Phil Watson

Cam Newton led the Carolina Panthers back to the NFL Playoffs in 2013, the team's first postseason appearance since 2008. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Cam Newton led the Carolina Panthers back to the NFL Playoffs in 2013, the team's first postseason appearance since 2008. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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First-round pick Ryan Shazier is one of the new pieces for a defense that has gotten younger. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
First-round pick Ryan Shazier is one of the new pieces for a defense that has gotten younger. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Pittsburgh Steelers (2013 record: 8-8)

The Steelers have missed the playoffs for two straight years, the first time Pittsburgh has done that since missing three straight years from 1998-2000.

After going through two years of being old and slow, the Steelers have reinvented themselves with athleticism and speed, especially on defense.

Linebacker Ryan Shazier brings that speed and athleticism to the defense and Pittsburgh has also loaded up its backfield, with veteran LeGarrette Blount and rookie Dri Archer joining Le’Veon Bell, who is coming off an 860-yard, 45-catch rookie campaign.

The defense also added safety Mike Mitchell from Carolina in free agency and should pair well with veteran Troy Polamalu. It’s a transition year for the defense with Ryan Clark, Brett Keisel and LaMarr Woodley gone, but never bet against Dick LeBeau’s ability to cook up some magic on that side of the ball.

Sean Spence is healthy and ready to play, Jarvis Jones looks like he could break out in his second season and Mike Tomlin knows how to win.

Besides, would you want to be the guy on the defense to disappoint new assistant coach Joey Porter?

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