The AFC North, once again regarded as the most competitive division in the NFL, features four teams with legitimate playoff aspirations. But with just one division title and two wild card berths up for grabs, each team must make every game count. Here's a breakdown of each team's strengths, weaknesses, and key questions heading into the upcoming season.
Colin Cowherd's prediction: Division winners
Key addition: RB Derrick Henry
AFC North Breakdown: Who Will Rule the Toughest Division in Football?
Biggest question: Can TE Mark Andrews stay healthy?
The Ravens, boasting a top-five offense, top-five defense, and arguably the league's best special teams coach, are the favorites to win the AFC North once more. Lamar Jackson, the reigning MVP, led the Ravens to a 13-3 record before a playoff loss. With the acquisition of former NFL rushing champion Derrick Henry, Baltimore's ground game becomes even more formidable. The big question mark for the Ravens lies with Mark Andrews, Jackson's favorite target, who missed significant time in 2023 due to injury.
AFC North Breakdown: Who Will Rule the Toughest Division in Football?
Colin Cowherd's prediction: Playoff team
Key addition: WR Tee Higgins
AFC North Breakdown: Who Will Rule the Toughest Division in Football?
Biggest question: Will WR Ja'Marr Chase hold out?
The Bengals, with Joe Burrow at the helm, are a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Burrow's 12-4 record in 2021 and 10-6 mark in 2023 are a testament to his ability to elevate his team. The return of Tee Higgins, one of the NFL's most dangerous wide receivers, boosts the Bengals' offense significantly. However, the ongoing contract dispute with Ja'Marr Chase, the team's other star receiver, could cast a shadow over their season if he holds out.
AFC North Breakdown: Who Will Rule the Toughest Division in Football?
Colin Cowherd's prediction: Question marks on the offensive side of the ball
Key addition: QB Russell Wilson
AFC North Breakdown: Who Will Rule the Toughest Division in Football?
Biggest question: Is Arthur Smith the right offensive coordinator?
The Steelers, led by veteran coach Mike Tomlin, will rely heavily on their defense to carry them. However, their offense has struggled in recent years, prompting the acquisition of Russell Wilson at quarterback and the hiring of Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator. Wilson's ability to ignite the offense and Smith's ability to implement a successful scheme will determine the Steelers' fate in the AFC North.
AFC North Breakdown: Who Will Rule the Toughest Division in Football?
Colin Cowherd's prediction: Questions surrounding Deshaun Watson
Key addition: WR Jerry Jeudy
Biggest question: What will Watson be this year?
The Browns, under the guidance of coach Kevin Stefanski, have a formidable defense anchored by Myles Garrett. However, the biggest question mark for the Browns is quarterback Deshaun Watson, who has played only 12 games in the past two seasons and has yet to prove his worth in Cleveland. The addition of Jerry Jeudy at wide receiver could provide a spark for Watson, but his performance will ultimately determine whether the Browns can challenge for the division title.
The AFC North is a dogfight every year, and this season is shaping up to be no different. With each team possessing its strengths and weaknesses, every game will be critical in determining the division winner and the wild card contenders.
