Fansided

Power rankings and record predictions

By Matt Verderame

Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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DENVER, CO – JANUARY 24: Rob Gronkowski
DENVER, CO – JANUARY 24: Rob Gronkowski /

3. New England Patriots

Even without Tom Brady for the first four games of the season, the Patriots will roll to the AFC East title once again. New England remains the best team in the AFC, something they have arguably been now for three seasons.

The Patriots added another dynamic tight end in Martellus Bennett via trade with the Chicago Bears, giving Rob Gronkowski a bona fide running mate. If Gronkowski and super slot receiver Julian Edelman can stay healthy, Brady has an embarrassment of riches at his disposal.

New England’s big issue is going to be the pass rush. The Patriots traded away Chandler Jones for a second-round pick and guard Jonathan Cooper, losing their top rusher. In addition, Rob Ninkovich will miss at least one month with a triceps injury, further limiting options in Bill Belichick’s arsenal.

All that said, Belichick schemes better than anybody in recent NFL history. It would be shocking if New England loses more than four games, even with Jimmy Garoppolo running the show through September. Once Brady gets back and finds his rhythm, the Patriots will be back and a threat to reach their seventh Super Bowl in the Brady era.

Record prediction: 12-4

Next: No. 2 Green Bay Packers