Training camps open this month. Teams have spent the offseason retooling their rosters. So how do all 32 NFL offenses stack up from No. 32 to number one?
These are always an exercise in fun and full of great speculation. Who will wind up being the NFL’s top offense this upcoming season? When it comes to these rankings, there’s a lot to consider and that means more than just the performance of the quarterback.
When coming up with this list (and all of these endeavors will always be highly subjective), the men in the trenches, the club’s philosophy and the team’s coaching are equally as important as the skill positions. And truth be told, the more balanced and efficient the attack, the higher the spot in the rankings.
So for the sake of a little humor and a play on words, which of these NFL squads will prove to be the most “offensive?” Well…
32. Miami Dolphins
2018 Review: It proved to be another season in which quarterback Ryan Tannehill couldn’t stay healthy. After missing the stretch run in 2016 and all of ‘17, the former first-round draft choice was limited to just 11 games (enter Brock Osweiler for 5 starts) this past year and would throw for 17 scores while turning over the football 13 times. The Dolphins finished next-to-last in the NFL in total offense and 30th in passing yards per game. And the team finished with a thud, totaling a combined 41 points during a season-ending three-game losing streak.
2019 Key Additions: The team signed journeyman signal-caller Ryan Fitzpatrick and traded for 2018 first-round quarterback Josh Rosen (Cardinals), offsetting the deal that sent Tannehill to Tennessee. The franchise was fairly conservative when it came to adding veteran talent, signing one-time Patriots’ tight end Dwayne Allen and wideouts Ricardo Lewis (Browns) and Allen Hurns (Cowboys). The club used two draft picks on offensive line help.
Analysis: First-time NFL head coach Brian Flores takes over for Adam Gase. The Bill Belichick disciple brought along former Patriots’ receivers coach Chad O’Shea to be his offensive coordinator. The team still has a lot of play-makers at wide receivers (Kenny Stills, Albert Wilson and DeVante Parker) and Kenyon Drake is a versatile option out of the backfield. But can Fitzpatrick and/or Rosen get the job done and is the offensive line capable of solid showing?
Next: No. 31
31. Arizona Cardinals
2018 Review: What didn’t go wrong for the Arizona offense this past season? This unit managed to score only 24 touchdowns in 16 outings and the club amassed more than 20 points just twice all season. The Cardinals became the first team since the 1977 Tampa Bay Buccaneers to finish last in the league in total offense, rushing yards per game and passing yardage. After seven games, offensive coordinator Mike McCoy was shown the door. When the dust finally settled, the club scored an NFL-low 225 points and committed 28 turnovers while allowing 52 sacks.
2019 Key Additions: General manager Steve Keim used the first overall pick in April on Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Kyler Murray and also drafted three wide receivers. In free agency, he added tight ends Charles Clay and Maxx Williams and really stressed more help for an offensive line. The team sent a sixth-round draft choice to Pittsburgh for tackle Marcus Gilbert and the Cards also signed guards J.R. Sweezy and Max Garcia.
Analysis: After using a first-round pick in 2018 on Josh Rosen, the Cardinals moved on from the former UCLA quarterback and eventually dealt him to Miami. Former Texas Tech head coach Kliff Kingsbury is the team’s new sideline leader. Will his system succeed on the pro level? So far, veteran Larry Fitzgerald has been impressed by the Murray (via Robert Klemko of MMQB). The team could use another big year from running back David Johnson.
Next: No. 30
30. Denver Broncos
2018 Review: Last offseason, general manager John Elway signed journeyman quarterback Case Keenum to be the Broncos’ latest starting signal-caller. But he failed to recapture the form he showed in Minnesota in 2017, throwing for 18 scores while committing 17 turnovers. There was a bright spot when it came to the running game in the form of undrafted rookie Phillip Lindsay, who finished with 1,037 yards and nine scores on only 192 carries. While Emanuel Sanders led the team with 71 catches, it was 2018 second-round pick Courtland Sutton that opened eyes.
2019 Key Additions: Team head coach John Elway has certainly gone through his share of quarterbacks the past three seasons and now there’s another newcomer behind center in 11-year veteran Joe Flacco via a trade with the Ravens. The Broncos did a lot in terms of bolstering their offensive line the last few months, adding veteran right tackle Ju’Waun James (Dolphins) and using a second-round pick on versatile blocker Dalton Risner (Kansas State).
Analysis: Flacco has erratic in recent seasons and it will be interesting if he can recapture that form of 2012. It’s worth noting that Elway used a second-round selection on University of Missouri quarterback Drew Lock, a move that certainly made sense given Flacco is entering his 12th season. New offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello, who spent the previous two seasons as the 49ers’ quarterbacks coach, could go through some growing pains.
Next: No. 29
29. Washington Redskins
2018 Review: Nine games into the season, Jay Gruden’s club was off to a 6-3 start. And while the Washington offense wasn’t exactly explosive, it was very efficient with Alex Smith at the helm and revitalized Adrian Peterson (1,042 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns in ’18) carrying the load out of the backfield. The ‘Skins committed only seven turnovers in their first nine games. But the veteran quarterback suffered a gruesome leg injury in a Week 11 home loss to the Texans. And three eventual replacements would serve up 10 more picks in the team’s last six outings.
2019 Key Additions: The ‘Skins dealt for journeyman Case Keenum and then used the 15th pick in this year’s draft on Ohio State standout Dwayne Haskins. The team didn’t do much on the offensive side of the ball via free agency but did use the draft to add running back Bryce Love (4-Stanford), wide receivers Terry McLaurin (3-Ohio State) and Kelvin Harmon (6-North Carolina State) and some interior offensive line help as well.
Analysis: Will Haskins be the Week 1 starter when Gruden’s team takes the field against the Philadelphia Eagles. Will disgruntled veteran tackle Trent Williams be a part of the team come September? How long can Peterson go on? Promising running back Derrius Guice missed all of 2018 with a knee injury and is still very much on the mend. And does this unit have enough explosive play-makers? There’s a slew of questions that need answering here.
Next: No. 28
28. Cincinnati Bengals
2018 Review: Although it still wound up showing improvement from the previous season, Cincinnati’s offense was not without its various problems a season ago. And the biggest may have been health as veteran quarterback Andy Dalton wound up missing five games and wide out A.J. Green played in only nine contests. On the positive side, running back Joe Mixon took the reins and led the team in rushing (1,168), yards from scrimmage (1,464) and total touchdowns (9). And wide receivers Tyler Boyd and John Ross tied for the team lead with seven TD receptions.
2019 Key Additions: For the first time since 2002, Marvin Lewis won’t be the team’s sideline leader. Former Rams’ quarterbacks coach Zac Taylor has the job and Brian Callahan is the club’s new offensive coordinator. In terms of free agency, the club added guards John Miller and John Jerry, although the latter did not play in 2018. The Bengals also addressed the offensive front with the 11th overall selection in April but there’s already been some bad news.
Analysis: The team’s biggest issues in recent seasons been the offensive front and it’s already been a tough 2019 for the club. The Bengals have apparently lost 2019 first-round pick Jonah Williams for the year and veteran left guard Clint Boling opted for retirement, which wasn’t a total surprise. When healthy, Dalton and Green are one of the premier tandems in the league and Mixon is on the rise. But it may not all work if the line isn’t settled.
Next: No. 27
27. Tennessee Titans
2018 Review: For the second straight season, injuries and inconsistency plagued this unit. First-time NFL head coach Mike Vrbael saw his team total the seventh-most rushing yards in the NFL – thanks mainly to a strong second-half performance by running back Derrick Henry. But quarterback Marcus Mariota failed to play a full season for the fourth time in as many years. Only three teams in the league averaged fewer passing yards per game and Tennessee’s aerial attack scored only 16 TDs. Losing tight end Delanie Walker in Week 1 was a big blow.
2019 Key Additions: Once again, the franchise was fairly quiet during the free-agency period. While the club did swing a deal with the Dolphins for veteran quarterback Ryan Tannehill – brought in to backup Mariota – arguably the team’s top offensive additions were wide receiver Adam Humphries (Buccaneers) and quality guard Rodger Saffold (Rams). In the second round of April’s draft, the Titans opted for Ole Miss wide receiver A.J. Brown.
Analysis: The return of Walker and the addition of Humphries should aid the passing game. Can Henry pick up where he left off in ‘18, running for 585 yards and seven scores in the final four games? How will the team handle left tackle Taylor Lewan’s four-game suspension to start the season? And can Mariota finally stay healthy?
Next: No. 26
26. Oakland Raiders
2018 Review: Under returning head coach Jon Gruden, the Silver and Black had their issues on this side of the ball. The team would part ways with wide receiver Michael Crabtree last offseason and dealt Amari Cooper to the Dallas Cowboys in October. When it was all said and done, the Raiders’ offense produced only 28 touchdowns while the club turned over the ball 24 times. For the second straight, quarterback Derek Carr did not look like the same performer who many felt was a league MVP candidate in 2016. And a troubled offensive line didn’t help.
2019 Key Additions: It was another offseason of numerous additions. The team acquired prolific wide receiver Antonio Brown via a trade with the Steelers. The club also signed free-agent tackle Trent Brown for big money. The Raiders also grabbed former Chargers’ wideout Tyrell Williams as well as tight end Luke Willson, late of the Lions. With the second of their three first-round picks in April, Oakland opted for running back Josh Jacobs (1b-Alabama).
Analysis: It’s a very big year for an attack that addressed the offensive line, backfield and wide receiver position this offseason. The former is the biggest concern as the club as the Raiders allowed 52 sacks and ranked 25th in the league in rushing this past year. Brown could be huge for Carr, who had had some ups and downs the last few years. And keep an eye on Jacobs, who could be a steady workhorse for a team looking for a consistent runner.
Next: No. 25
25. Carolina Panthers
2018 Review: Cam Newton was efficient early on. But the real highlight of this offense was second-year running back Christian McCaffrey. He finished with 1,098 yards on the ground, 867 yards through the air (on 107 receptions, most ever in a season by an NFL running back) and totaled a team-best 13 TDs. But Newton was not the same after injuring his shoulder in a Thursday night loss at Pittsburgh. All told, the Panthers scored 21-plus points in just three of their final eight games, a feat they managed six times during their 6-2 start.
2019 Key Additions: The franchise was fairly quiet in free agency, although the additions of center Matt Paradis (Broncos) and wide receiver Chris Hogan (Patriots) should help immediately. The Panthers also signed wideout Aldrick Robinson and used five of their seven draft choices in April on offense. Could second-round tackle Greg Little push for a starting job? And the selection of quarterback Will Grier (3-West Virginia) was very intriguing.
Analysis: Following offseason shoulder surgery, Newton is a full-go this summer and figures to be even more effective in his second year under offensive coordinator Norv Turner. While McCaffrey is obviously capable of big things and tight end Greg Olsen returns, does this team have enough firepower at wide receiver with D.J. Moore, Curtis Samuel, Jarius Wright and Hogan? More importantly, will Carolina’s offensive line be up to snuff?
Next: No. 24
JACKSONVILLE, FL – JUNE 11: Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Nick Foles (7) during minicamp on June 11, 2019 at Dream Finders Homes Practice Complex in Jacksonville, Fl. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
24. Jacksonville Jaguars
2018 Review: Quite the thud. The improvement that quarterback Blake Bortles showed in 2017 seemed to go by the wayside this past year. And off a three-game postseason run in which he and the Jaguars did not commit a turnover, the much-maligned signal-caller completed 60.3 percent of his throws and 13 scores but was picked off 11 times and lost four fumbles in 13 outings. Running back Leonard Fournette was limited to only eight contests and a team that finished first in the league in rushing in ‘17 fell to 19th in the NFL in the same category.
2019 Key Additions: Can Nick Foles be the team’s answer behind center? He will be paired with a familiar face in new offensive coordinator John DeFilippo, who was the Eagles’ quarterbacks coach in 2017 when the team and Foles won Super Bowl LII. Former Chiefs’ wide receiver Chris Conley could be a big help, as could tight end Geoff Swaim (Cowboys). And the Jaguars added coveted tackle Jawaan Taylor (Florida) in the second round in April.
Analysis: Despite the arrival of Foles, it’s the Jacksonville running game that must re-establish itself after a disappointing showing a year ago. Fournette’s talent is unquestioned but he has to stay on the field. T.J. Yeldon is now a member of the Bills so the club is counting on newcomers Alfred Blue, Benny Cunningham and Thomas Rawls to provide depth. Getting talented wide receiver Marqise Lee back this season would be a big help as well.
Next: No. 23
23. San Francisco 49ers
2018 Review: It was a tough year on this side of the ball, although there were a handful of bright spots. The Niners’ offense received a big blow just before the start of the season when free-agent pickup Jerick McKinnon went down for the season. And in the third game of 2018, quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo also suffered a knee injury and was lost for the remainder of the year. On the plus side, George Kittle set a single-season NFL record for receiving yards by a tight end. Meanwhile, running back Matt Breida led the club with 814 yards and three scores on the ground.
2019 Key Additions: The signing of versatile Tevin Coleman can’t be underestimated. He’s very familiar with head coach Kyle Shanahan’s system. The former Atlanta Falcons’ standout should pair with McKinnon to give Garoppolo more options. General manager John Lynch added two wideouts in the second round of the draft in Deebo Samuel (South Carolina) and Jalen Hurd (Baylor). Veteran tight end Levine Toilolo is also familiar with Shanahan’s offense.
Analysis: Down McKinnon and Garoppolo for either all or more of 2018, the Niners still managed to put up respectable offensive numbers thanks to intriguing quarterback Nick Mullens and big contributions from Kittle and Breida. The 49ers still need better play from the offensive front. The club allowed 48 sacks this past season but that figures to improve this year. But the Niners need their starting quarterback to stay on the field in 2019.
Next: No. 22
22. Detroit Lions
2018 Review: For a time, the Lions looked like a team that was going to expand its offense a bit as rookie running back Kerryon Johnson said showed flashes. But he wound up missing far too much time and once again, Detroit’s ground attack was a non-factor once again. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford’s 10th NFL season was somewhat uneven. While he threw for 3,777 yards and 21 scores, he was sacked 40 times and committed 15 turnovers. A big plus was wideout Kenny Golladay, who led the team in catches (70) and receiving yards (1,063).
2019 Key Additions: There’s a new offensive coordinator in Darrell Bevell, who stressed the ground game while with the Seahawks. The Lions used the eighth overall pick in this year’s draft on talented tight end T.J. Hockenson (Iowa). He and veteran free-agent addition Jesse James (Steelers) could wind up being a terrific 1-2 punch at the position for Stafford. Veteran wideouts Danny Amendola and Jermaine Kearse were solid pickups as well.
Analysis: Stafford has a lot of offensive weapons at his disposal and the new tight end combination could make this attack very dangerous. More importantly, Bevell’s emphasis on the running game means Kerryon Johnson could be in for a big year. It all sounds good but the Lions’ offensive front must be more consistent than it was in ’18. Stafford had his share of ups and downs as well. This is a very intriguing unit that may surprise in a big way.
Next: No. 21
21. Buffalo Bills
2018 Review: As a rookie, quarterback Josh Allen displayed his celebrated strong arm when give the opportunity. But he also wound up leading the team in rushing yards, something the organization and head coach Sean McDermott couldn’t be happy about. The bigger issue was the fact that the offensive line could not get the job done, which is why general manager Brandon Beane addressed this unit this offseason. All told, the Bills finished 30th in the league in total offense, next-to-last in passing yards and totaled only 28 offensive touchdowns.
2019 Key Additions: Speaking of that aforementioned front wall, the newcomers include center Mitch Morse, guards Spencer Long, Quinton Spain and Jon Feliciano and tackles LaAdrian Waddle, Ty Nsekhe and Cody Ford – the latter a second-round pick in April. As for the skill positions, the Bills added wide receivers John Brown and Cole Beasley, running backs Frank Gore and T.J. Yeldon and tight end Tyler Kroft. Talk about an overhaul?
Analysis: Allen’s talent is unquestioned and he showed his toughness and resiliency during his rookie year. With LeSean McCoy, Gore and Yeldon, the Bills have quite the mix of youth an experience in their stable of backs. But this won’t click unless that offensive front gels quickly and Beane has certainly put the pieces in place to make that happen. By the end of 2019, this attack could be a well-oiled machine. But first a little patience must be exercised.
Next: No. 20
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2018 Review: Be it veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick (now with the Dolphins) or Jameis Winston, this was a unit that racked up a lot of real estate and miscues. Only two teams in the league gained more total yards than the Bucs, who led the NFL in passing yards. But the club finished 29th in rushing and the aforementioned quarterback duo combined for 30 of what proved to be an NFL-high 35 turnovers. Mike Evans enjoyed another huge year, fellow wideout Chris Godwin opened some eyes and tight ends Cameron Brate (6) and O.J. Howard (5) combined for 11 touchdowns.
2019 Key Additions: Obviously, the biggest newcomers is head coach Bruce Arians, who spent 2018 off the field and in the broadcast booth but is back on the sidelines. Could he finally be the cure for Winston’s erratic play to date? Most of the team’s free-agent moves this offseason and all but one of the club’s eight draft choices were used on defense. Could one-time first-round wide receiver Brashad Perriman have an impact on this unit?
Analysis: This is a talented squad that has been an overall enigma in recent seasons and a franchise that hasn’t been to the playoffs since 2007. But don’t be surprised if there is a somewhat quick turnaround on the offensive side of the ball. Winston certainly has the tools to be standout performer and he’s surrounded by plenty of weapons. But a disappointing 76 turnovers in 56 regular-season games won’t get the job done on any level.
Next: No. 19
19. Baltimore Ravens
2018 Review: Following a 4-5 start, Ravens’ rookie quarterback Lamar Jackson – who saw playing time in the first nine games – was inserted into the starting lineup in place of a hurting Joe Flacco. The offense would change dramatically, stressing the ground attack and the former University of Louisville standout had a big role in that. Baltimore finished second in the league in rushing and Jackson wound up with 695 yards on the ground and five scores. Willie Snead led the team in catches while rookie tight end Mark Andrews showed promise.
2019 Key Additions: Greg Roman was promoted to offensive coordinator and there’s a new lead running back in Mark Ingram (Saints). The pass-catching corps underwent a slew of changes as wideouts Michael Crabtree and John Brown and tight end Maxx Williams have all moved on for different reasons. Enter Seth Roberts and Michael Floyd and rookie wide receivers Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (1-Oklahoma) and Miles Boykin (3b-Notre Dame)
Analysis: With a full offseason to develop this offense, the Ravens could be an intriguing team on this side of the ball. But how much did the league’s other teams, especially the division-rival Browns and Ravens, learn from dealing with Jackson as a starting quarterback? And including last year’s home playoff loss to the Chargers, the young signal-caller fumbled a combined 15 times and lost five of those miscues in 17 outings. Concerns?
Next: No. 18
![Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook (33) celebrated his first quarter 13-yard touchdown run at U.S. Bank Stadium Sunday December 16, 2018 in Minneapolis, MN.] The Minnesota Vikings hosted the Miami Dolphins at U.S. Bank Stadium. Jerry Holt • Jerry.holt@startribune.com(Photo By Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_16,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/39522cc82619abbfbd6067c7f1edbf21634ef6d0316a636362ad4f3d5df02574.jpg "Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook (33) celebrated his first quarter 13-yard touchdown run at U.S. Bank Stadium Sunday December 16, 2018 in Minneapolis, MN.] The Minnesota Vikings hosted the Miami Dolphins at U.S. Bank Stadium. Jerry Holt • Jerry.holt@startribune.com(Photo By Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via Getty Images)")
18. Minnesota Vikings
2018 Review: The Purple Gang invested heavily into free-agent quarterback Kirk Cousins. And while he put up big numbers he also made his share of costly mistakes, some of that due to poor offensive line play and a running game that finished with the third-fewest yards in the league. The seven-year pro totaled 30 TD passes but was sacked 40 times and had 17 of the club’s 20 turnovers. Dalvin Cook once again had problems staying healthy but both Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs finished with 100-plus grabs and each reached the end zone nine times.
2019 Key Additions: General manager Rick Spielman used the team’s first four selections in April’s draft on offensive help, adding a pair of offensive line prospects in center Garrett Bradbury (1-North Carolina State) and guard Dru Samia (4-Oklahoma). The Vikings also grabbed talented tight end Irv Smith Jr. (2-Oklahoma). In terms of veteran signings, the club inked guards Josh Kline and Dakota Dozier. And Sean Mannion is Cousins’ new backup.
Analysis: If the Vikings are going to take full advantage of Cousins’ skills, they must compliment him with a consistent ground attack. A season ago, only two teams in the league ran for fewer yards than the Purple Gang. Cook must prove he can remain healthy. Regardless, the quarterback must do a much better job of protecting the football regardless of any offensive line issues. All told, this is a tough group to get a gauge on at the moment.
Next: No. 17
17. New York Jets
2018 Review: A year ago, the Green and White turned over the quarterbacking reins to rookie Sam Darnold – the 3rd overall pick in the 2018 draft. And while he showed flashes and certainly appears to be the team’s long-term answer at the position, the turnover issues (15 interceptions, 2 lost fumbles in 13 games) that plagued him a bit at USC came back to haunt him at times in his debut season. The team struggled once again to consistently run the football (26th in the NFL), was limited to 17 points or less in nine games and totaled only 29 offensive touchdowns.
2019 Key Additions: The signing of running back Le’Veon Bell was a major coup for new head coach Adam Gase. He’s already proven he can carry a heavy workload comment – as evidenced by his 408 touches from scrimmage in ‘17 with the Steelers. The addition of slot receiver Jamison Crowder helps as well. And the club swung a deal with the Raiders in March for quality guard Kelechi Osemele. Running back Ty Montgomery (Ravens) adds depth.
Analysis: There is certainly some potential here for immediate growth. Bell can be a workhorse and also gives Darnold a superior receiving threat out of the backfield. Wide receivers Robby Anderson and Quincy Enunwa make for an unsung duo and the addition of Crowder is a big plus as well. This is a Jets’ attack that could surprise many early on, especially if the offensive line holds up. But it will be interesting to see if it has any staying power in ’19.
Next: No. 16
16. New York Giants
2018 Review: General manager Dave Gettleman took his share of criticism last spring for using the second overall pick in the ‘18 draft on a running back. But all Saquon Barkley did was lead the Giants in rushing yards, receptions and touchdowns and the league in total yards from scrimmage. Eli Manning relied on the rookie in terms of a target. But once again, he had his issues behind an offensive line that struggled. Once again, Odell Beckham Jr., saw his season cut short by injury, despite leading the team in receiving yards (1,052) and TD catches (6).
2019 Key Additions: While the team traded Beckham to the Browns, the Giants picked up a nice complement to their pass-catching corps in free-agent wideout Golden Tate. The addition of right guard Kevin Zeitler was part of the deal of the wheeling and dealing with Cleveland. Of course, Gettleman used the sixth overall pick in April to draft Duke University quarterback Daniel Jones. Will he be the starter sooner than later in 2019?
Analysis: After one year, some feel Barkley may be the best player at his position in the league. That’s quite a statement considering he resides in a division with a performer (Ezekiel Elliott) that has won two NFL rushing titles the past three years. The loss of Beckham hurts but Manning has somewhat gotten used to him being absence and Tate was a solid pickup. If the men up front can round into form, this could be a very balanced offensive unit.
Next: No. 15
15. Green Bay Packers
2018 Review: The numbers show that talented quarterback Aaron Rodgers once again showed why he’s among the best players in the game at his position. But a closer look at those 25 TD passes and just two interceptions say other otherwise. He wasn’t quite himself due to a Week 1 knee injury and his 62.3 completion percentage was his lowest since 2015. Green Bay’s running attack made only occasional appearances and the team’s offensive line was inconsistent as well. It was one of many reasons head coach Mike McCarthy was dismissed after 12 games.
2019 Key Additions: Most of the club’s offseason was spent on bolstering a very disappointing defensive unit. In free agency, the Packers added Billy Turner (Denver Broncos) – who’s expected to be the starter at right guard this season. General manager Brian Kutekunst also used a second-round pick this year on offensive line help in interior prospect Elgton Jenkins (Mississippi State) and in the third round, selected Texas A&M tight end Jace Sternberger.
Analysis: Rodgers has battled injuries the past two seasons and there are some questioning this durability. That’s certainly fair, but if this offense is to succeed there must be more balance. No team in the NFL total fewer running plays than the Packers in 2018. LaFleur has a lot of weapons at his disposal and the team’s offensive line must do a better job. By season’s end, this could be a very potent unit but there will be an early feeling-out process.
Next: No. 14
14. Houston Texans
2018 Review: It took some time for second-year quarterback Deshaun Watson to regain that standout form he showed as a rookie. Perhaps the fact that he suffered that season-ending knee injury in November meant he wasn’t quite himself in September. A shaky offensive line was one reason Watson was sacked a NFL-high 62 times. While running back Lamar Miller once again spearheaded the ground attack, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins finished third in the league with 115 catches, second in receiving yards (1,572) and reached the end zone 11 times.
2019 Key Additions: The Texans took a page out of the book of the 2018 Colts and used both a first- and second-round pick on offensive line help in this year’s draft, selecting Tytus Howard (1-Alabama State) and Max Scharping (2b-Northern Illinois). The team’s veteran additions include tackle Matt Kalil (Panthers), tight end Darren Fells (Browns) and running back Taiwan Jones (Bills). And A.J. McCarron is the team’s latest backup signal-caller.
Analysis: The only thing holding back this offense these days is the play of the men up front. It’s hard to believe Watson was able to survive a year ago. Hopkins is arguably the best wide receiver in the league and the team has more than capable components (Miller and D’Onta Foreman) at running back as well. A healthy Fuller would help the passing attack as well. At least for now, the jury is out until the offensive line emerges as a consistent unit.
Next: No. 13
13. Seattle Seahawks
2018 Review: It was another big year for quarterback Russell Wilson, who threw 28 more touchdown passes (35) than interceptions (7). And after a few rough years, he had the support of a steady ground attack. The Seahawks finished number one in the league in rushing yards thanks to improved offensive line play and a big year from running back Chris Carson (1,151 yards, 9 touchdowns). Wide receiver Tyler Lockett continues to be one of the game’s most exciting players and wound up leading the team in catches (57), receiving yards (965) and TDs (10).
2019 Key Additions: With the second of two first-round picks in April, the Seahawks selected intriguing wide receiver D.K. Metcalf (Mississippi). The clubs also added two more wideouts in Gary Jennings (4-West Virgnia) and John Ursua (7-Hawaii). Quarterbacks Paxton Lynch and Geno Smith will compete for the backup job behind Wilson, while veteran guard Mike Iupati will play for his third NFC West team after stints with the 49ers and Cardinals.
Analysis: The Seahawks’ ground attack was potent a year ago, to say the least. And it enabled Wilson to do a lot through the air. The club has some young and exciting talent at wide receiver as well. But the offensive line in general needs to up its game in terms of pass protection as the seven-year signal caller was sacked a whopping 51 times in ‘18. That likely can’t happen again if the team wants to get past the talented Rams in the NFC West.
Next: No. 12
12. Dallas Cowboys
2018 Review: For the second time in three years, Ezekiel Elliott led the league in rushing yardage. The 24-year-old pro totaled an NFL-best 304 carries for 1,434 yards and six scores in 15 contests. He managed this feat behind an offensive line that wasn’t quite as healthy as center Travis Frederick missed the entire season and left tackle Tyron Smith was absent for three games. The midseason trade for wide receiver Amari Cooper proved to be huge for the club and quarterback Dak Prescott, who hit on 67.7 percent of his throws despite being sacked 56 times.
2019 Key Additions: After a season in the Monday Night Football broadcasting booth, veteran tight end Jason Witten is back with the club. Prescott also got more help with the signing of veteran wide receiver Randall Cobb. On Day 3 of April’s draft, the club added a pair of running backs in Troy Pollard (4-Memphis) and Mike Weber (7-Ohio State). The Cowboys added depth up front with the addition of guard Connor McGovern (3-Penn State)
Analysis: There’s been so much talk about Prescott’s and Elliott’s contracts this offseason that their play on the field the past three seasons is taking somewhat of a back seat in certain corners. The bottom line is that the two players complement each other. And the midseason addition of Cooper a year ago was huge in many ways. The return of Witten gives Prescott a reliable short range target. Consistency is the only thing holding this offense back.
Next: No. 11
11. Pittsburgh Steelers
2018 Review: While some of the numbers are impressive, this wound up being a bit of a flawed unit by season’s end. The team lacked offensive balance in its final seven games and was one reason for the late slump. Veteran Ben Roethlisberger led the NFL in passing yards but also served up a league-high 16 interceptions. Running back James Conner would prove to be an effective replacement for Le’Veon Bell but struggled with injuries late in the year. Antonio Brown and Juju Smith-Schuster caught 100-plus passes, the former totaling 15 TD receptions.
2019 Key Additions: Per usual, the Steelers weren’t very busy during free agency. But general manager Kevin Colbert may have hit the jackpot with the signing of wideout Donte Moncrief. The former member of the Colts spent 2018 with Jacksonville and so far the reviews have been good. The club also opted for more help at the skill positions by drafting wide receiver Diontae Johnson (3-Toledo) and running back Benny Snell (4-Kentucky).
Analysis: It will be much different in the Steel City without Brown – a member of the team for the past nine seasons. Bell didn’t play a year ago and his departure won’t be felt nearly as much. But this is still a team with an immense amount of talent at the skill positions and also features one of the top offensive lines in the league. The way Pittsburgh does business offensively may be a little different. But they figure to be extremely effective.
Next: No. 10
10. Chicago Bears
2018 Review: Mitch Trubisky improved greatly in his second year, hitting on 66.6 percent of his throws good for twice as many TD passes (24) as interceptions (12). He also ran for 421 yards and three scores. Jordan Howard was again the workhouse out of the backfield but running back Tarik Cohen led the club in catches (71). Wideouts Taylor Gabriel, Allen Robinson and Anthony Miller and tight end Trey Burton combined for 19 scores in their first year with the club. And a team that totaled 26 offensive TDs in 2017 finished with 44 such scores this past season.
2019 Key Additions: Pace wound up selecting just five players in April’s draft as the team did not have a first- or second-round choice. The team’s first pick was Iowa State running back David Montgomery in the third round. Combined with the veteran addition of Mike Davis (Seahawks) and the Bears have a nice stable in the backfield. Chicago also added versatile Cordarrelle Patterson in free agency and wideout Riley Ridley (4-Georgia) in April.
Analysis: It’s year two of the Nagy Era in the Windy City as well as season number three for the talented Trubisky. And given the improvement that the young signal-caller made this past season, you can expect more progress when it comes to the team’s offense overall. It will be a different kind of running game with Cohen as the main threat. The Bears also have very capable weapons at wide receiver and tight end and the offensive line is solid.
Next: No. 9
9. Cleveland Browns
2018 Review: Everything changed for this unit once quarterback Baker Mayfield came into the game late in the second quarter in Week 3 on a Thursday night against New York Jets. In 14 contests, he wound up throwing for 3,725 yards and an NFL rookie record 27 touchdown passes. Running back Nick Chubb also made his presence felt, running for 996 yards and eight scores during his debut season. Wide receiver Jarvis Landry and tight end David Njoku had solid years while 2018 fourth-round pick Antonio Callaway led the club with five touchdown receptions.
2019 Key Additions: General manager John Dorsey added a pair of explosive play-makers to this unit. The club acquired wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. from the New York Giants and added running back Kareem Hunt. The latter was released by the Chiefs less than a year ago and will serve an eight-game suspension to start the season. Beckham has missed his share of playing time the past two years but his amazing numbers speaks volumes.
Analysis: It’s hard not to get excited about the prospects of this attack. Mayfield looks like the consummate gunslinger and leader on the field, while wideouts Beckham and Landry should have very productive years. Chubb showed down the stretch in ‘18 that he can be the main man out of the backfield. Add in Callaway, Njoku and wide receiver Rashard Higgins and this may be the team’s best offense since returning to the league in 1999.
Next: No. 8
8. Los Angeles Chargers
2018 Review: Anthony Lynn’s offensive unit was very efficient. It reached the end zone 48 times in 16 regular-season contests and the team scored 428 points. The Chargers turned over the football only 19 times and allowed only 34 sacks. Veteran Philip Rivers threw 32 TD passes to eight different targets, with wide receiver Keenan Allen (6), running back Melvin Gordon (4) and second-year wideout Mike Williams (10) combining for 20 of those scores. Gordon rolled up a combined 14 touchdowns, while Allen led the Bolts in catches (97) and receiving yards (1,196).
2019 Key Additions: Talk about an incredibly quiet offseason, which may not necessarily be a bad thing. Rivers has a new backup in Tyrod Taylor, who will be with his third different team in three years. The Chargers didn’t do a lot during the draft when it came to their offense as well. Five of the club’s seven selections were spent on defense, the exceptions being tackle Trey Pipkins (3-Sioux Falls) and quarterback Easton Stick (5-North Dakota State).
Analysis: This is a talented team on both sides of the football and more than capable of scoring points on anyone. But does a possible holdout by Gordon changed the dynamic of this offense? There is a long time between now and September and it’s also worth noting that the Chargers have some depth at running back with Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson. And a healthy Hunter Henry would make this group even more potent this fall.
Next: No. 7
7. Los Angeles Rams
2018 Review: One year after leading the NFL in scoring, Sean McVay’s club finished second in the league with 527 points. Running back Todd Gurley played in just 14 games but finished fourth in the league with 1,831 yards from scrimmage and led the NFL with 21 TDs. Jared Goff threw for 32 scores (12 interceptions) and ran for a pair of touchdowns but was up-and-down in December and in the postseason. Wide receiver Cooper Kupp was missed late in the year while Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks totaled 80-plus receptions and 1,200-plus receiving yards.
2019 Key Additions: There’s a new backup quarterback for the defending conference champions in former Jaguars’ first-round pick Blake Bortles. Can McVay do his magic in fixing the erratic five-year veteran? The club appears to be very high on 2019 third-round pick Darrell Henderson (Memphis), who could have a big role if Gurley is indeed limited this season. Meanwhile, general manager Les Snead addressed the offensive line twice during April’s draft.
Analysis: The defending NFC champions’ attack took only a few hits in free agency, losing veteran guard Rodger Saffold (Titans) while allowing reserve running back C.J. Anderson (Lions) to test free agency. Obviously, the health of Gurley is somewhat concerning but it appears that McVay has a plan. Getting wide receiver Cooper Kupp back on the field would be a big help. The Rams need Goff to rebound following an erratic stretch run and postseason.
Next: No. 6
6. New England Patriots
2018 Review: Per usual, this was a very balanced attack. But comes the playoffs, the Patriots turned to power football and that paid off with a sixth Super Bowl title since 2001. While Tom Brady was…Tom Brady, perhaps the biggest factor when it came to this unit was the play of the offensive front. Rookie Sony Michel led the team in rushing yards and fellow running back James White paced the Pats with 87 catches. Eventual Super Bowl LIII MVP Julian Edelman overcame a four-game suspension, caught 74 passes and once again exceled in the postseason.
2019 Key Additions: The team’s tight-end situation has been a merry-go-round but the newcomers include Matt LaCosse, Lance Kendricks and eventually Benjamin Watson. The latter will serve a four-game suspension to start the season. The club used the final pick in the first round in April to add Arizona State wide receiver N’Keal Harry and went the free-agent route to grab veteran wideouts Demaryius Thomas and underrated Dontrelle Inman.
Analysis: Simply put, the departure of Gronkowski can’t be underestimated. He brought a different dimension to the New England attack and although he missed his share of time along the way, this was a better offense with him in the lineup. Still, no team adjusts better than the Patriots from year to year and regardless of the circumstances. Once again, they will have their new wrinkles courtesy of coordinator Josh McDaniels and Brady will make it work.
Next: No. 5
5. Atlanta Falcons
2018 Review: Veteran quarterback Matt Ryan and company scored 414 points and the offensive unit reached the end zone 47 times. The 11-year pro threw for 4,924 yards and five times as many scores (35) as interceptions (7). With Devonta Freeman missing all but two games, Tevin Coleman led the club in rushing (800 yards) and finished with nine total touchdowns. Rookie Calvin Ridley (64 receptions, team-high 10 TDs) was a perfect complement to Julio Jones, who had another monster year with 113 catches and a league-high 1,677 receiving yards.
2019 Key Additions: This offseason was clearly all about fortifying the offensive line in Atlanta. General manager Thomas Dimitroff used the 14th overall pick in the draft on Boston College guard Chris Lindstrom. He then traded back into the first round to select tackle Kaleb McGary (Washington) at No. 31. And in free agency, the Falcons signed a slew of experienced guards in James Carpenter, versatile Jamon Brown, Adam Gettis and John Wetzel.
Analysis: Dirk Koetter is back in Atlanta running the offense. And it’s safe to say that this unit is arguably as good as any in the league. Ryan rebounded from a subpar 2017 and did his best to keep his team in the playoff race. A healthy Freeman makes an enormous difference to this group. And with the club bolstering its offensive front this offseason, the Falcons’ attack will be able to beat you in many ways. A very dangerous entity indeed.
Next: No. 4
4. Kansas City Chiefs
2018 Review: In his second NFL season and first as a starter, quarterback Patrick Mahomes lit up the league by throwing for 5,097 yards and 50 touchdowns for Andy Reid’s club. The 2018 league MVP and NFL Offensive Player of the Year was part of a team that scored 565 points – the third-highest single-season total in NFL history. Electrifying wide receiver Tyreek Hill ran through opposing defenses at will – averaging 17.0 yards on his 87 grabs –and Pro Bowl tight end Travis Kelce was once again a huge factor. The duo combined for 190 catches, 22 for scores.
2019 Key Additions: Although Reid’s team didn’t have a first-round pick in April, Kansas City used a Day 2 selection on wide receiver Mecole Hardman (2-Georgia). The Chiefs added some depth to the ground game by grabbing Carlos Hyde in free agency and Darwin Thompson (6b-Utah State) in the draft. Elswwhere, the defending AFC West champions signed a trio of tight ends in Blake Bell (Jaguars), John Phillips (Cardinals) and Neal Sterling (Jets).
Analysis: It’s worth noting that the last team to lead the league in point production two consecutive years were Sean Payton’s New Orleans Saints in 2008 and ‘09. Of course, many are wondering whether Mahomes can come close to matching what he did in 2018. There are some questions when it comes to the running game but Reid is counting on Damien Williams to be the main threat out of the backfield. This attack will be again be hard to stop.
Next: No. 3
PHILADELPHIA, PA – MAY 21: Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz (86) during the Philadelphia Eagles OTA on May 21, 2019 at the Novacare Training Complex in Philadelphia, PA (Photo by John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
3. Philadelphia Eagles
2018 Review: It was an uneven year for a team that rolled to 13 victories and a Super Bowl title one season earlier. With Carson Wentz still on the mend, veteran Nick Foles got the start the first two weeks and wound up the starter down the stretch and in the playoffs. As for the third-year field general, the talented performer did throw for 21 scores (7 interceptions). But he looked tentative too many times. After finishing third in the league in rushing in ‘17, the Birds fell to 28th in that key category. Zach Ertz set a single-season record for catches by a tight end (116).
2019 Key Additions: It was a busy offseason for GM Howie Roseman, who swung a deal with the Bears for running back Jordan Howard and orchestrated a trade with the Buccaneers to bring DeSean Jackson back to Philadelphia. The Eagles selected five players in April’s draft – four on offense – including promising tackle Andre Dillard (1-Washington), running back Miles Sanders (2-Penn State) and wide receiver J.J. Arcega-Whiteside (2b-Stanford)
Analysis: The only real question mark here is Wentz’s health. Did he come back too soon a year ago? In any case, the addition of Howard – who totaled 250-plus carries in each of his three seasons with the Bears – should help a ground attack that was problem-plagued in 2018. The Eagles feature one of the game’s better offensive lines and with Ertz, Alshon Jeffery, Nelson Agholor and Jackson, the three-year quarterback has plenty of options.
Next: No. 2
2. Indianapolis Colts
2018 Review: It was obviously obvious early in the season that quarterback Andrew Luck – who missed all of 2017 with a shoulder issue – wasn’t quite himself yet. Six games into the season, the Colts owned a 1-5 record and the talented signal-caller hadn’t quite gotten into rhythm. But eventually the offensive line began to gel, running back Marlon Mack became more of a focal point and head coach Frank Reich stressed balance. Luck finished with 39 touchdown passes – second-most in the league – and earned NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors.
2019 Key Additions: General manager Chris Ballard used seven of his 10 draft choices on defensive help and two of the other three on offensive line depth. The one skill position player was wideout Parris Campbell, the last of the club’s three second-round selections. He could have an immediate impact, teamed with T.Y. Hilton and free-agent pickup Devin Funchess to give Luck quite the trio. Running back Spencer Ware (Chiefs) was added for depth.
Analysis: As time wore on a year ago, the Colts’ attack became far more than a one-man show. Youth will continue to be served on the offensive line thanks to Nelson and Smith and Mack should pick up where he left off a year ago. Luck still needs to cut back a bit on the turnovers. But he now has a nice 1-2 punch at both wide receiver with the signing of Funchess. And a healthy Jack Doyle gives the Colts a potent duo at tight end. Expect big things in ‘19.
Next: No. 1
1. New Orleans Saints
2018 Review: This past season, the Saints finished “only” eighth in the NFL in total yards. Amazingly, it was the lowest ranking by the team in 13 seasons under head coach Sean Payton. Veteran quarterback Drew Brees has had a lot to do with that success and while he didn’t quite look like himself late in the year, he hit on a league-record 74.4 percent of his passes – good for 32 scores (5 interceptions). Wide receiver Michael Thomas led the NFL with 125 catches and versatile running back Alvin Kamara rolled up 1,592 yards from scrimmage and 18 touchdowns.
2019 Key Additions: With running back Mark Ingram on his way out of town, the club inked running back Latavius Murray – late of the Vikings. Speaking of Minnesota, the team also added interior blocker Nick Easton, who figured to take over at center for retired Max Unger. But the Saints wound up grabbing Texas A&M pivot Erik McCoy in the second round. And Brees may finally have the tight end he’s missed the last few years in veteran Jared Cook.
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Analysis: What’s not to like about Peyton’s attack? The offense has become much more balanced the past two seasons, the addition of Murray offsets the departure of Ingram and the signing of Cook gives Brees the player the team has lacked at tight end since Jimmy Graham was dealt to Seattle in 2015. There might be an early learning curve when it comes to the center position. But this offense should continue to click on all cylinders.