Most Improved Unit For Every NFL Team

Front Seven

There’s no doubt that it’s the front seven. For the Falcons, this group did not improve overnight or over the course of this offseason, but over the course of the last five seasons to culminate into possibly one of the best groups in the entire NFL. The scary thing is, this group got even better this year with new additions and an extra season of experience. Back in 2011 and 2012, the group headlined with John Abraham, Jonathan Babineaux, a peaked Kroy Bierman and the Ray Edwards flop. It was supported with linebackers Curtis Lofton, Stephen Nicholas and the when-healthy Sean Weatherspoon. Fast forward to the twilight of the Mike Smith years, when Abraham was gone and replaced by a past-his-prime Osi Umenyiora without any legitimate support from Paul Worrilow and often-injured Sean Weatherspoon. Now, the Dan Quinn era has put together a group with a space tackling machine Deion Jones, the league’s sack leader Vic Beasley and a supporting cast that helped the group get to the Super Bowl. Now add Dontari Poe on a one-year ‘prove it’ deal and Takkarist McKinley in the draft and the Falcons stand a chance to go from a bottom of the barrel defense four years ago to a top unit in 2017 and beyond.

- Hank Sewell

Defensive Weapon

The defensive weapon may not be a real NFL position, but the Cardinals took two guys that fit the description in the first two rounds of the 2017 NFL Draft. Haason Reddick played on the edge at Temple but will transition to an off-ball linebacker for the Cardinals. He showed a natural ability in pass coverage at the Senior Bowl and played with extreme violence. Reddick adds a ton of versatility to the Cardinals already top end defense. He can rush the passer, play the run, and cover tight ends/running backs. The Cardinals will be able to play him all over the place. The other defensive weapon they added in the draft was Washington defensive back Budda Baker. Baker doesn’t fit the mold of a traditional NFL safety, but he has a similar skill set to that of teammate Tyrann Mathieu. He can play single high safety, nickel back, and in the box. Baker makes up for lack of size with extreme physicality. He should be on the field from day one whether it be as a free safety, strong safety, or nickel. Between Reddick and Baker, the Cardinals defense got a lot faster and more versatile.

- Rob Paul

Secondary

Losing cornerback Tavon Young to a recent ACL tear hurts the Ravens secondary, but it was still their most improved position. Bringing in Tony Jefferson at strong safety to pair with Eric Weddle is game changing. In 2016 for Arizona Jefferson was playing at an All-Pro level. He’s arguably the best run defending safety in the NFL right now. Putting him next to a do it all Safety in Weddle will allow the Ravens to take advantage of his ability in the box. Baltimore also upgraded their secondary by drafting Alabama cornerback Marlon Humphrey in the first round. Humphrey is one of the most physical cornerbacks to ever come out of college football. He punishes receivers at the line of scrimmage and is fierce against the run. Although he lacks athleticism on tape, he was a track star and with coaching should learn to bring his speed to the football field. The Ravens added two instant impact starters in Jefferson and Humphrey

- Rob Paul

Front Office & Coaching

Many Bills fans expected a shakeup in the offseason after yet another playoff-less season. After the Rex Ryan experiment didn’t go as planned for the Pegula’s, they sought after a tough defensive minded coach who could implement his system into Buffalo’s talented core. Insert Carolina Panthers Defensive Coordinator Sean McDermott. McDermott is known for his no-nonsense attitude, which is the type of coach the Bills need after being the last ranked team in penalties in 2015 under Rex Ryan and co. Aside from adding their new coach, the Pegula’s decided to move on from GM Doug Whaley to match Coach McDermott’s requests and vision for this football team. After nineteen previous years with the Carolina Panthers, Brandon Beane was hired as the new General Manager of the Bills. Many have applauded this hire due to the prior relationship between Beane and McDermott. The Bills took a major 180 this offseason, and they are headed on a much different path than what ownership, management, and coaching have led them to previously. Whether these changes will provide success for this organization has yet to be determined. Bills fans should expect Buffalo to operate much differently than beforehand. This was a much-needed move for them to take the right step in the direction for the future.

- Elan Chark

Defensive Line

Through this current offseason the Carolina Panthers have added the veteran, and once Panther star Julius Peppers. Along with adding him back to the equation, the Panthers signed Kawann Short to a five-year contract extension worth over $80 million. The Panthers defensive has always been the Achilles heal of this team, but adding Peppers back into the equation shows the commitment that this team has to make the defense much better. Kawann Short combined for 55 tackles last season and six sacks. He’s poised for a better season this year. Charles Johnson will be another significant factor in the success of this defensive line. With his numbers improving this past season from the 2015 season Johnson’s tenure with Panthers will is crucial if they plan on becoming one of the NFL’s elite football teams again.

- Evan Grant

Defensive Backs

If you had told me six months ago that Chicago would improve their secondary over the offseason, I’d be glad to hear it. Chicago tied for the second-fewest interception count (8) during the season. Their zone scheme doesn’t require a lockdown corner, but it was clear that many teams could throw when and where they wanted. However, after this notable offseason, it appears that a few upgrades on the perimeter won’t drastically impact the Bears’ playoff chances. New DBs include Prince Amukamara from Jacksonville, Marcus Cooper from Arizona, and Quintin Demps from the great Texans defense. In front of them remains an intact group of D-linemen and linebackers that were among the best in football last year.

- Caylor Feltman

Wide Receiver

Addressing the receiver position in the draft was important for the Bengals. Taking speed demon John Ross top 10 surprised some, but he’s far more than just a deep threat. Ross runs great routes and has some of the quickest feet off the line of scrimmage in football. He also doesn’t have the drop issues many deep threats tend to have. Ross looks like DeSean Jackson, but with better routes. Adding Ross opens up the Bengals offense and should help AJ Green a lot. Add in Tennessee receiver Josh Malone, a third-round pick, and the Bengals got a lot faster on the outside. Malone is height, weight, a speed guy with a ton of upside. He may not make an instant impact, but he has the skill set to contribute as a deep threat and on special teams. Second-year receivers Tyler Boyd and Cody Core should both make significant strides entering their sophomore campaigns. Both flashed at times as rookies and Boyd are almost guaranteed to earn the starting slot role. Core, like Malone, is height, weight, speed guy that can play on the outside. Between Ross, Malone, Boyd, and Core the Bengals have a mouth-watering young group out wide. Having those four and AJ Green make a move to bring back Brandon LaFell even more questionable.

- Rob Paul

Defensive Line

The Cleveland Browns biggest improvement during the offseason has been their defensive line. As a firm believer that the Browns have needed to improve their offensive line and add more veteran experience to compliment Joe Thomas, this was a tough decision to make. While the team did acquire some more experience offensive lineman during free agency, it is nearly impossible not to be amazed by the amount of talent the Browns have stacked on their defensive line.  After picking Myles Garrett 1st overall in the draft, a player who is likely to compete for defensive rookie of the year this fall, the Browns also selected Larry Ogunjobi 65th overall and Caleb Brantley 185th overall. They also agreed to terms with Karter Schult and Jamal Marcus in May. These younger talented players join a group of guys who have played a significant role in the Browns defense in previous years. They are joining experienced veterans such as Jamie Meder, who the Browns signed exclusive rights to back in March and had 48 tackles in 2016, Desmond Bryant, who led the Browns with six sacks in 2015 and Danny Shelton, who was 4th in total tackles last year with 59. Cleveland also has other playmakers on the defensive line with the likes of Xavier Cooper and Carl Nassib, who each had 20 tackles last season. The talent and potential of the Browns defensive lineman to develop are just stunning, and there will likely be some fierce competition during training camp to make the final 53-man roster. It’s one area that should get all Browns fans excited.

- Jacob Gurney

Defensive Line

The biggest hit the Dallas Cowboys took in the offseason was their loss of defensive starters. They certainly drafted a lot of defensive players going with defensive linemen and a lot of secondary help, but the defensive line is where they made their splash. The Cowboys are applying the philosophy that built their monster offensive line to their defensive line. They spent their first round pick on Taco Charlton out of Michigan, and he will make an immediate impact. They also went and picked up Joey Ivie from the University of Florida and Jordan Carrell out of the University of Colorado to help bolster the defensive line as well. By bulking up the defensive line and adding some backup for Tyrone Crawford and David Irving, they are looking to begin the build a formidable pass rush.

- Richard Cano

Offensive Line

The Denver Broncos had one of the worst offensive lines last season. It was evident that the Broncos struggled to protect the quarterback and produce holes big enough for the run game.  This season will be different with the additions of Melekin Watson and Ronald Leary via the free agent market.  These two linemen will be able to fill in big holes on the line around one of the league’s best centers in Matt Paradis. The Broncos also picked up Utah left tackle Garett Bolles who has great NFL potential to be a long-term solution on the blindside.  If Bolles can develop into what Denver needs quickly, he could be the starting left tackle all season.  By beefing up the line, the Broncos hope to unleash a potentially dangerous backfield and create more time for a big play from the team’s receivers.

- Milo Hay

Linebacker

The toss up was between the offensive line and linebacker units. However, the offensive line was more of a revamp instead of an improvement. The linebacker position was a major focus in free agency and the draft for Detroit. Spending a first round pick on Florida linebacker Jarrad Davis, the unit is expected to look much different when the season rolls around. From being one of the worst groups in the league last season, the linebackers in Detroit look to rebuild their reputation much like the rebuild ongoing in the city. There will be a significant amount of competition for the outside linebacker spots in training camp. The right mix of veteran and young talent will give this Lions team an edge at the position they’ve been missing for the past few seasons. Detroit is making a conscious effort to eliminate the gaping holes in their front seven they had last year. Expect defensive coordinator Teryl Austin to put the best group out on the field when the season begins.

- Jeremy Dill

Secondary

Backfield

Houston did not use this offseason to set the world on fire with their transactions. This Texans team was a quarterback away from competing for a spot in the Super Bowl. Houston has already moved on from estranged quarterback Brock Osweiler. However, the quarterback is not the only thing Houston has added via the draft that will improve this season. The Texans drafted “hometown” product D’Onta Foreman in the third round. Foreman is a powerful back who was one of the most successful student-athletes in Texas history. Foreman will be an excellent compliment to Lamar Miller. He and newly acquired quarterback Deshaun Watson should be a part of a much improved Texans backfield in the coming years. Now Watson may not be the immediate starter, but don’t expect him to take long to get on that field. The weapons around him should make the transition to the NFL almost as easy as it was for Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Houston may have (finally!) found themselves a quarterback. With JJ Watt coming back and Jadaveon Clowney coming into his own, Houston is set on defense. How will their offense perform this year? Only time will tell.

- Jeremy Dill

Linebacker

The Indianapolis Colts wasted no time this offseason addressing their need for depth at the linebacker positions. The Colts brought in 5 linebackers this offseason, putting to silence any questions as to whether the need for players at the position would be fulfilled before or during the draft. They signed Jabaal Sheard (New England Patriots), Jon Bostic (Detroit Lions), Sean Spence (Tennessee Titans), Barkevious Mingo (New England Patriots) and John Simon (Houston Texans) to their roster which will create surefire competition at the position. All five of these signings are under the age of 28, except Sheard who turned 28 in May, and will bring youth to a position that had two starters over the age of 30 last season (D’Qwell Jackson, 33 and Erik Walden, 31).

-  Devon Clements

Running Back

Jacksonville has receivers, they have an above average offensive line, they have a quarterback (hopefully), and now they have a tailback. On paper, the Jaguars have a potential playoff roster on both sides of the ball if they can put it together. The selection of Leonard Fournette with the fourth overall pick is a right step in an attempt to improve the running game. The selection of Fournette, and the Jaguars effort to improve their weapons around Blake Bortles is their way of showing they haven’t given up on the former Central Florida star. Not only Fournette, but Chris Ivory and TJ Yeldon are serviceable backs that will be able to help the rookie along as he grows in the NFL. New VP Tom Coughlin has not shown much confidence in his quarterback Bortles, but a selection of a running back should give him some hope. Now with what should be a running game in Jacksonville, Blake Bortles has no excuse other than to succeed. Look to the Jaguars to be a surprise team in the coming year. They may not win the division, but they will be there to compete.

- Jeremy Dill

Quarterback

The Kansas City Chiefs were able to solidify plenty of position during the offseason and the 2017 NFL Draft.  But in the long term, the Chiefs scored big in drafting Texas Tech Quarterback Patrick Mahomes II.  Mahomes II is an athletic QB that the organization believes can take the team to the next level and possibly win a Super Bowl.  Alex Smith is a reliable QB, but at times last year, he struggled to create the big play in a stacked offense. Mahomes II was able to improve each year in college and is one of the most underrated rookie QB’s in the league this year.  If he can learn the system quickly and improve on some of his mechanics and decision-making, look for Mahomes II to start at some point during the season if Smith is unable to deliver.

- Milo Hay

Wide Receiver

The Rams let their 2016 leading receiver, Kenny Britt, leave in free agency, but managed to improve their receiving core more than any other position. Britt wasn’t a good fit in new head coach Sean McVay’s offense and after letting him walk they brought in Robert Woods from Buffalo. They paid Woods more than they should have, but he brings stability to a position the Rams haven’t had stability at since the Torry Holt days. Woods is a good route runner with reliable hands and can step in and be a number two options from day one. The Rams also drafted receivers Cooper Kupp, Eastern Washington, and Josh Reynolds, Texas A&M. Kupp should make an instant impact due to his consistent hands and savvy routes. He’s the perfect underneath complement to Josh Reynolds deep receiving ability. Reynolds has a tremendous catch radius and is known for making big plays. Overall, the Rams wide receiver group looks far more competent entering 2017.

- Rob Paul

A Little Bit of Everything

The Los Angeles Chargers are leaving San Diego, but they are doing it in style.  The Chargers had a good draft and also were able to sign many players to fill needs on both sides of the ball.  The organization was able to pick up a good player for each one of their needs in the 2017 NFL Draft.  Players like West Kentucky Guard Forrest Lamp and Indiana Guard Dan Feeney are two athletic and aggressive linemen that can be starters by week 1.  Clemson Receiver Mike Williams is another tall, athletic body for Rivers to throw to. Desmond King and Rayshawn Jenkins are well-rounded defensive backs that can help a struggling secondary.  The Chargers were able to pick up Russell Okung who may fit more in San Diego’s air show.  The Chargers also were able to sign back key free agents and sign some interesting undrafted rookies. Don’t be surprised is all 4 AFC West teams compete for three playoff spots this season.

- Milo Hay

Linebackers

The Dolphins were one of the better stories of the previous season. After the dismal 1-4 start Miami rifled off a six-game winning streak and won nine of the final eleven games and made the playoffs. Ryan Tannehill made great strides while the Dolphins offense was the focal point of the team’s success, even after Tannehill went down to injury. The defense, however, did not have as much success especially the linebackers. Outside of Kiko Alonso, Miami struggled mightily at the position to stay healthy and make plays. This off-season the Dolphins retained Kiko Alonzo, drafted Ohio State linebacker Raekwon McMillan, and signed former Steeler Lawrence Timmons. The much-improved unit will look to not hinder this team’s success in the coming season, but instead, help win games. The Dolphins will be a team to watch when this season rolls around.

- Jeremy Dill

Running Back

Jerick McKinnon struggled mightily after taking over as the Vikings lead back when Adrian Peterson went down last year. He averaged measly 3.4 yards per carrying and couldn’t create for himself behind a brutal offensive line. The Vikings signing of Latavius Murray was nothing special, his lack of vision and upright style make him a change of pace back at best, but what they did in the draft boosted their backfield immensely. Stealing Florida State running back Dalvin Cook in round two is a game changer for this team. Cook was a top 10 talent who fell due to off-field concerns. If he can keep himself out of trouble, he has the skill set to thrive for the Vikings. Cook is extremely explosive with home run hitting ability. He’s also extremely elusive and behind a bad offensive line should be able to create plays for himself without quality blocking. Adding Cook also helps Sam Bradford and the Vikings passing game. Cook is a quality receiver out of the backfield who can take swing routes for big chunks of yardage. Cook alone improves the Vikings backfield a ton, adding in Murray gives them a solid, experienced backup runner.

- Rob Paul

Pass Catchers/Receivers

The Patriots made a few uncharacteristically big moves this offseason, such as trading for Saints’ WR Brandin Cooks. Despite winning the Super Bowl a few months ago, the addition of Cooks and the return of a healthy Gronk will make the offense even more potent than it was during the 2016-2017 postseason. Cooks, Gronk, Edelman, Hogan, Amendola, White, Mitchell, etc. will be nearly impossible to stop, as Belichick, Brady, and OC Josh McDaniels can easily play the matchups each week. The Patriots did lose TE Martellus Bennett, who stepped in admirably for Gronk last season but did acquire TE Dwayne Allen from the Colts. Bennett, while a great receiver, seemed to play smaller than his 6’6”/270 lbs frame would suggest in the red zone. Allen appears to be a great blocker and a decent red zone threat at the very least, which will lessen the impact of losing Bennett and LeGarrette Blount, who punched in 18 TDs last season. Also, the Patriots added RB Rex Burkhead and RB Mike Gillislee, who will compete for time in the RB rotation. This roster looks to be better than the legendary 2007 team, so watch out.

- Will LaFiandra

Offensive Line

The Saints’ Achilles heel over Drew Brees’ entire career with New Orleans has been the offensive line. In recent years, the Saints have had arguably one of the worst offensive lines in the league. This off season, New Orleans not only addressed this vital need through free agency but also used draft picks to bolster that unit for the future. Larry Warford spent his first four seasons with the Detroit Lions before signing a four-year deal with the Saints. Earning Pro Football Focus’ Rookie of the Year, Warford did not allow a sack in his entire rookie campaign. He will provide an immediate impact to the interior of the offensive line, but the Saints did not stop there. They spent the 32nd overall pick in this year’s draft (through the Brandin Cooks’ trade) on former Wisconsin OL Ryan Ramczyk. Finally, the Saints brought in a veteran presence to help mentor this young, up-and-coming unit. Khalif Barnes enters his 12th season in the NFL and provides valuable depth to a historically shaky offensive line. Regardless, the Saints addressed a fundamental need this off season; protecting their franchise QB and creating a viable unit for Adrian Peterson to rush behind.

- Matt Marellucci

Wide Receiver

Possibly the most obvious answer to the question of what unit did each team improve in the offseason points to the Giants and their receiving corps. With nothing but minor transactions regarding the running back position, New York better hope their improvement at receiver pays off. Eli Manning will be a happy guy knowing if Odell Beckham is not open he still has Sterling Shepard and Brandon Marshall to throw to. This Giants offense is as potent as ever in the passing game; they have the perfect combination of veterans and young athletes. Brandon Marshall is a threat in the passing game no matter his age and will make an impact on the field until he retires. Though he has had off the field issues, he has calmed down immensely. Having a guy who has now matured and can relate to the outlandish attitude of Beckham is an asset, believe it or not. Marshall can be a role model and help Odell Beckham continue to be an impact on the field instead of off. New York puts themselves right back into playoff contention and should be in the top tier of passing offenses after the season concludes.

-  Jeremy Dill

Safety

The Jets went an unconventional route in the draft, selecting Jamal Adams, and Marcus Maye in the first two rounds respectively. Some regarded Adams as the best defensive player in the draft. Adams and Maye should be a formidable duo for the team despite being rookies. The two will bring solid tackling, big hits, and playmaking ability in which they showed in college. With Marcus Gilchrist gone and Calvin Pryor on his way out via trade, look for these two to thrive together as rookies.

- Paul Petrucci

Secondary

Last year, Oakland shelled out big money to quality free agents like Kelechi Osemele and Sean Smith. However, the Raiders chose to stay quiet this free agency, probably to ensure they had the cap space to extend 2014 draftees, Derek Carr, Khalil Mack, and Gabe Jackson. Unfortunately, Oakland’s defense was in need of a big time upgrade. So GM Reggie McKenzie invested his first two picks on cornerback Gareon Conley and safety Obi Melifonwu. Conley was a top ten prospect who slid due to rape allegations (the investigation is ongoing. However, the evidence that became public to the media appears to reflect Conley’s innocence). His length and athletic ability should make him a day one starter. Melifonwu is an athletic freak who put up ridiculous Combine numbers. Pairing Melifonwu with Karl Joseph, who will be fully healed after an injury-plagued rookie year, gives Oakland a dynamite pair of safeties in the back end. The unit may not be one of the league’s best, but it shouldn’t be a liability for much longer.

- Grant Baker

Wide Receiver

Heading into the offseason, the Eagles had two very obvious flaws, receivers and secondary. The secondary continuously has been getting lit up for years whereas the wideouts had become a new problem because of the Chip Kelly era in which Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson both left. It seems like head coach Doug Pederson and executive VP of football operations Howie Roseman had seen enough of Carson Wentz not having weapons.  Last season the Eagles had 24 drops according to Sportingcharts.com which ranked them tied for 6th most in the league. They also were bereft of any big play weapons last season as well (I read my Stephen A Smith dictionary today people). No Eagles cracked 820 yards or 4 TDs. Enter in free agents Torrey Smith and Alshon Jeffery. While Torrey Smith may not be a huge improvement, he is a deep threat that the Eagles have been severely lacking ever since the departure of Jackson. On the other end, Jeffery is a stud wide receiver if (big if), he can stay healthy. Last year alone on a down season and playing in only 12 games, Jeffery had more yards than any Eagles’ wideout. And with 15.9 yards per catch, he got more yards per catch than any Eagles wideout who saw more than 20 targets. Behind him was Jordan Matthews with 11 yards per catch. All that is clear is that this year there will be no excuses for Carson Wentz not to make a big jump forward.

- Demetrius Mason

Wide Receiver

It is hard to believe the Steelers’ wide receiving corps could get any better with Antonio Brown already on the unit. Brown has been the most productive wide out over the past few seasons, and with the reinstatement of speedster Martavis Bryant, Pittsburgh’s offense is going to be able to stretch the field even more. Sammie Coates faired well in his relief role for Bryant last season. But Martavis adds yet another weapon in the Steelers’ already lethal offensive attack. Adding on to the speed that Martavis Bryant brings to this unit, Pittsburgh also drafted former USC wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster in the second round. Finally, the Steelers brought in yet another wide receiver this offseason with the signing of former second round selection, Justin Hunter. One interesting stat about Pittsburgh’s current wide receivers is that they are looking to go BIG. Besides Antonio Brown, the subsequent receivers all stand over 6’1” and weigh over 200 pounds. From speedy Martavis Bryant (6’4”, 225 lbs) and Sammie Coates (6’2”, 216 lbs) to red zone threats Darrius Heyward-Bey (6’2” 210 lbs) and JuJu Smith Schuster (6’1” 215 lbs), the Steelers are going to stack at the wide receiver position in 2017.

- Matt Martellucci 

Front Office and Coaching

While the San Francisco 49ers added a few players to help in various areas, what stands out for the team is the addition of John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan. Lynch has come in and is the voice and puppet-master of the organization, which has struggled since the decline of Colin Kaepernick who was recently released by the team. Various pieces of a once strong 49ers team left via free agency, and the Chip Kelly experiment didn’t go as planned.  Enter Kyle Shanahan.  Shanahan proved to be a valuable asset for the coaching staff last season with the Atlanta Falcons and this, in turn, rose his stock to become a head coach heading into the 2017 NFL season.  Shanahan is more than capable of developing an offense that can be high powered and put up incredible numbers.  The only issues are that the 49ers have a team that may not fit the bill of a top offense for this upcoming season.  So 49ers fans, look for Lynch to make some interesting moves during his tenure to build a team that can compete once again in the NFC West.  If Lynch and Shanahan work together well, the 49ers could develop into a great team again. The results may not show right away, have patience.

- Milo Hay

Rushing Attack

With the dominance of Pete Carroll’s defense in Seattle, it is hard to imagine bettering this unit.  There has been reports of divide between the offense and defense with rumors of a possible trade of Richard Sherman.  But what stands out is what the Seahawks are doing on the offensive side of the ball to help Russell Wilson.  The team took a big gamble and signed Eddie Lacy who has struggled with weight issues for most of his career.  But the Seahawks structured a contract with incentives to push Lacy to play like he did at Alabama.  One of the biggest issues for the Seahawks last season was that they thoroughly missed a strong run game from Marshawn Lynch.  If Lacy can manage his weight, he could be a great fit for the Seahawks backfield, opening up space for the wideouts and tight ends.  The Seahawks were also able to add a few offensive linemen, but the one that stands out the most is Luke Joeckel.  Joeckel is a proven NFL tackle that can come in and protect Wilson from some of the big hits he was taking last season.  If the pieces come together, the Seahawks could be a scary team on both sides of the ball during the 2017 NFL season.

- Milo Hay

Passing Attack

The Buccaneers made the point of the offseason to improve Jameis Winston’s arsenal. With a legitimate chance at winning the NFC South this season, the front office down in Tampa are trying to make the jump. They signed DeSean Jackson to pair with Mike Evans and brought back Adam Humphries who can be effective. The team also spent their third round pick on WR Chris Godwin out of Penn State. Also, Alabama TE, OJ Howard fell into their lap during the back end of the first round. Word was Howard could have gone top ten. Howard is outstanding in the passing game and blocking. Adding Jackson and Howard among others in the passing attack, that is where the Bucs improved most this offseason. They improved so much that a division title could be in their sights.

- Chris Lehan

Wide receivers

With only three receivers having more than 500 yards and no receiver reaching the 1,000-yard mark in 2016, it was pretty obvious that the Titans had to improve their wide receivers going into the offseason and leading into the 2017 season. The Titans did just that by going out and drafting Corey Davis with the number five overall pick and then selecting Taywan Taylor in the third round. Davis will be the number one guy at receiver that the Titans have desperately been needing for years. He is a great size and fits in well with the Titans system. Taylor, who is quietly impressing at the Titans OTA’s, is a fast player who can fill in the void at the open slot receiver position once Kendall Wright and the Titans parted ways. With the addition of Davis and Taylor in this year’s draft, the Titans vastly improved their receiving corps and were their most improved unit.

- Brett Batchelor

Secondary

Despite the loss of WRs DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garçon, Washington’s offense remains relatively static with the addition of Terrelle Pryor, Brian Quick and the return of a healthy Josh Doctson. The defense, on the other hand, has seemingly improved significantly through a couple good free agent signings and a well-executed draft. Washington finished in the bottom five for yards per game allowed last year, and that issue was addressed specifically in the off-season. It’s hard to pick a single group on defense that was improved the most since problems needed to be dealt with across the board. But if there’s a group that looks abundantly more formidable, it’s the secondary. The signing of D.J. Swearinger, the recovery and relocation of Su’a Cravens to full-time safety, the nastiness of Josh Norman and Bashaud Breeland playing in a contract year will make the nation’s capital’s air defense system a physical force to be reckoned with. Behind them, the group also has some decent depth. These young bucks are going to throwing their bodies around and having a lot of fun doing it. Add on top of that that Norman is out for blood this year, specifically inside the NFC East, and this group is going to be a lot of fun to watch.

- Will Ovington