NFC EAST 18 | nflex

TIME TO ELEVATE

With his top target and security blanket gone, 3rd year Quarterback Dak Prescott must raise his level of play.

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BIRD CHASING

Philadelphia returns this season with it's roster fully in tact from a year ago and are not only favorites to win the division but are also expected to make another Super Bowl run. Meanwhile, the rest of the division will be adjusting to new players and personal, in pursuit of a Playoff berth.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

After winning the Super Bowl last year, Philadelphia is in perfect position to defend their championship. For the majority, all starters and key players return, along with some nice free agent acquisitions. With everything in place, the Eagles eagerly await the return of franchise Quarterback Carson Wentz, who will be returning from a late season ACL injury that caused him to miss the Playoffs and derailed his bid at league MVP.

DALLAS COWBOYS

The Dallas Cowboys are a team in transition looking to establish an identity. In 2016, rookie sensations Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott led the Cowboys to a division title, only to fall short in the Divisional Playoff Round to Green Bay. In 2017, Dallas was unable to duplicate that success, with Elliott missing 6 games due to suspension and Prescott unable to match his prior seasons success. Now with veterans Jason Witten and Dez Bryant gone, the Cowboys have officially begun a new era.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

I'm not sure what the expectations were when the Redskins hired Head Coach Jay Gruden 5 years ago but I'm almost certain that a 28-35-1 record with one Playoff loss, was not going to be considered a success. The Redskins have had a pretty good roster but injuries and inconsistent play on both sides of the football have led to below average performance. Washington has made attempts to upgrade it's defense and have a new Quarterback in Alex Smith, so if the win totals don't increase, Gruden has to be held accountable.

NEW YORK GIANTS

Despite a dismal 2017 season, the Giants have a lot to be optimistic about coming into this year. Last season New York was ravaged by early season injuries, coupled with poor offensive line play and they ultimately fell victim to dysfunction with coaches and poor leadership among players. As they begin this season, those issues have been addressed with a new Head Coach, improvements to their offensive line, key players back at full strength and a strong draft, in which they cashed in on blue chip Running Back Saquon Barkley.

NFC EAST OFF SEASON GRADES

New York: A
Washington: B
Philadelphia: B-
Dallas: C

Click here for in depth analysis on ALL Off Season Grades

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