NFL 2023 preview, part 1: AFC & NFC East

 With 2 weeks before the real season begins, it's time to take a look at the NFL of 2023.

AFC East:

The balance of power in the division may again be shifting, and the cautious approach employed by most teams means that while some are "struggling" in the pre-season, things should snap back to normal when the bell rings in Week 1.

Take, for example, the Jets.

15 years ago, Gang Green took a chance on Brett Favre after Green Bay let him go. One sexting scandal later, he was gone, and spent his final 2 seasons in Minnesota. Now, his successor with the Packers, Aaron Rodgers, is a Jet, and brought with him receivers Aaron Lazard and Randall Cobb. The Jets also picked up running back Dalvin Cook (Minnesota) and receiver Mecole Hardman (Kansas City). Good thing, too, with the news today that receiver Corey Davis has retired after 2 seasons.

New England may be angling to get back into the playoff hunt, winning the chase for Ezekiel Elliott (Dallas), giving them a potentially lethal 1-2 punch at running back with Rhamondre Stevenson. Now, all they need is to figure out which of their quarterbacks, Mac Jones or Bailey Zappe, can be a consistent winner.

Buffalo said goodbye to receiver Cole Beasley (Giants), and hello to Andy Isabella (Baltimore). Other than that, the biggest news would be the return of defensive back Damar Hamlin to the field in week 1 vs. the Jets. Miami basically stood pat.

Projected order of finish:

1. Buffalo.

2. New England.

3. Jets.

3 (tie). Miami.

NFC East:

The biggest change in Washington is not really on the roster. Offensive coordinator Eric "Sleeping With" Bienemy came over from Kansas City, and infused some fresh energy into the Commanders' offense. Washington has won 2 of the last 3 division titles, and would like to become Chiefs East. Maybe that explains why some Native American activists want the team to change their name back to the Redskins.

Former Syracuse QB Tommy DeVitto has landed with the Giants after playing his senior season at Illinois last year. Could wind up being Daniel Jones' caddy and/or successor based on what we've seen. In addition to Cole Beasley, the Giants also picked up Jamison Crowder from the Jets to boost their receiving corps. Philadelphia added to their backfield by picking up running back Rashaad Penny (Seattle), adding to an already lethal unit. Dallas may have weakened themselves by parting with Ezekiel Elliott, worried so much more about Dak Prescott. As long as Jerry Jones continues to misrun football operations, they won't be division champions.

Projected order of finish:

1. Philadelphia.

2. Washington.

3. Giants. 

4. Dallas.

Of course, I could be wrong.