NFC South division preview
2024 predicted order of finish, record
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7)
Baker Mayfield’s continued resurgence at quarterback and a stable defense will lead to a fourth consecutive division title.
Atlanta Falcons (9-8)
Kirk Cousins is an upgrade at quarterback and adding edge rusher Matthew Judon and safety Justin Simmons make a return to the playoffs after a six-year absence realistic.
New Orleans Saints (7-10)
They could be better than this, but only if an offensive line featuring three unproven starters jells quickly.
Carolina Panthers (5-12)
Rookie coach Dave Canales will benefit Bryce Young, as he did Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield, but the team ceiling remains low.
–NFC South top MVP candidates
Bucs QB Baker Mayfield
Mayfield had his most productive season in 2023 and earned a huge contract. His leadership and the increased comfort level of a second season with wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin and tight end Cade Otten should mean an outstanding offensive season.
Saints QB Derek Carr
If the offensive line is OK, Carr should thrive under first-year coordinator Klint Kubiak. The versatility of Alvin Kamara and Taysom Hill and a play-action game that takes advantage of young receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed should be reminiscent of the 49ers system that Kubiak brought with him.
Falcons RB Bijan Robinson
New coordinator Zac Robinson’s system, which he operated with the Rams, should enable Robinson, who had more than 1,000 yards of total offense as a rookie last season, to excel.
–NFC South breakout players
Bucs RB Rachaad White
The arrival of one-time Rams coordinator Liam Coen from Kentucky should be a perfect fit with White’s combination of size and athleticism, both as a runner and in the screen game.
Bucs LB Yaya Diaby
Diaby had an impact as a rookie last season, making 7.5 sacks, and his continued maturation will allow him to be even more productive as a sophomore.
Falcons WR Drake London
Erratic quarterback play held down the team’s passing game last season, but Cousins’ consistency and Bijan Robinson will create opportunities that London will take advantage of.
Falcons CB AJ Terrell
Terrell is a rising defensive star and having gotten his new, hefty contract out of the way will enable him to focus on becoming an elite playmaker.
Panthers QB Bryce Young
Young never had a chance as a rookie behind a poor offensive line. The Panthers upgraded the line and Canales will shepherd him through a much better season.
Panthers CB Jaycee Horn
Horn has been limited by injury in his first three seasons, but he played in 13 games last season and continued health will be key to him becoming a leader on a defense needing leaders.
Saints WR/RS Rashid Shaheed
Shaheed’s explosiveness makes him dangerous as both a big-play receiver and a return specialist. He’ll benefit from Kubiak’s scheme and the new kickoff rules that will provide more opportunities.
Saints DT Bryan Bresee
The former Clemson star had a solid rookie season in 2023 and he has moved into the starting lineup. The presence of Cam Jordan and the arrival of Chase Young on the outside will allow Bresee to become a consistent playmaker on the inside.
Week 1 outlook
Panthers vs. Saints, 1 p.m. ET
The Panthers and No. 1 overall pick in 2023 Bryce Young will be eager to show they’re improved over their 2-15 record last season under the new regime. They’ll have a stiff challenge against what should be a very good defense for the Saints, who badly need to start with a win as games against the Cowboys, Eagles, Falcons, Chiefs and Buccaneers follow.
Steelers vs. Falcons, 1 p.m. ET
Visiting Pittsburgh welcomes a new veteran quarterback in Russell Wilson as Cousins makes his Falcons debut. Atlanta’s defense has to show that it can hold up against Wilson and 1,000-yard rusher Najee Harris, who should excel in an offense coordinated by former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith.
Buccaneers vs. Commanders, 4:25 p.m. ET
Washington is starting over with former Falcons coach Dan Quinn and No. 2 overall draft choice Jayden Daniels, the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback from LSU, running an offense coordinated by former Cardinals head coach Kilff Kingsbury. But host Tampa will have more of an if-it-ain’t-broke-don’t-fix-it approach.
–Field Level Media
