Tom Brady shocked the world with his unretirement, while Russell Wilson’s relocation to the AFC West means that, in all likelihood, two of him, Derek Carr, Justin Herbert, and Patrick Mahomes, will miss the playoffs this season.
With just a few months until the start of the regular season, here is a look at the top 10 teams in the league and how to bet on football this fall.
#1: Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are the reigning Super Bowl champions and did work to improve their squad, adding Allen Robinson II and Bobby Wagner to cover the departures of Odell Beckham Jr. and Von Miller. They have an elite quarterback and head coach tandem, as well as the game’s best interior defensive presence and lockdown cornerback. There is a winning formula in LA, and with their recent Lombardi trophy, they head into the season as the number-one team in the power rankings.
#2: Buffalo Bills
The Bills are a favorite amongst NFL betting odds, both because of their electrifying quarterback and extremely solid defense, which made massive strides on the frontline last season. Adding a player with Von Miller’s experience to this group will only make them stronger and more tenacious, so provided that Josh Allen stays healthy, the Bills have a great shot at reaching the Super Bowl.
#3: Denver Broncos
The Broncos are being disrespected by many pundits out there. One of the smartest NFL betting tips is not to bet against Russell Wilson, a serial winner who will be desperate to validate his expensive trade package with superb on-field play. Denver also has standout talent across the board, gets after the quarterback, and runs deep. They may not be the “sexiest” NFL pick in the AFC West, but they just might be the most dependable.
#4: Kansas City Chiefs
The Broncos’ AFC West rivals check in at fourth on the power rankings, almost entirely on the back of Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid. They took a huge hit in the offseason by losing Tyreek Hill, and to a lesser extent, Tyrann Mathieu, but they still have the best quarterback in the league who has made four straight AFC Championship games. It remains to be seen how they will do without their speedy downfield threat, but they are likely to figure out a contingency plan.
#5: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs were a botched downfield coverage away from pushing the Rams to overtime in the most recent playoffs— Bruce Arians decided to put his whistle down and turn the reins over to Todd Bowles, so there could be some drop-off there, but Brady’s experience and calming presence should be enough to quell the tide. Tampa Bay is not the most talented team, but you cannot count them out with Brady back under center.
#6: Green Bay Packers
Many question Green Bay’s postseason acumen, but they have outright dominated the past few regular seasons. Reigning two-time MVP Aaron Rodgers will be without his favorite target, Davante Adams, but he is good enough on his own to mold the Packers into an elite outfit.
#7: Cleveland Browns
It is a quarterback’s league, the Browns have a great one— on the field— in Deshaun Watson. The Cleveland newcomer could face suspension at the start of the season, but once he is in the lineup, he will have a talented cast to support him as he attempts to recreate his image as a top-five pass-thrower in the NFL.
#8: San Francisco 49ers
The Niners could be in a bit of trouble if Deebo Samuel gets his way and forces a trade out, but they still have an elite coach in Kyle Shanahan, a moldable scheme, and physical, talented players that all serve their role. Their defense is especially scary and will be crucial going against division rival Rams and Arizona Cardinals.
#9: Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers have a young, ascending quarterback in Justin Herbert, whose job will be made easier by the arrival of Khalil Mack and J.C. Jackson, two all-world talents that will almost guarantee the defense lets up fewer points. Their coaching situation is not solidified, but Brandon Staley still gets the benefit of the doubt at this point.
#10: Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens were leading the AFC North well into the season before Lamar Jackson was forced to miss time. They have also been dominant before the playoffs, and with an excellent draft period under their belt, they figure to be back and firing on all cylinders once again.
If you love sports and want more sports betting information follow us as @InsidersBetDig on Twitter and sign up to our mailing list for free betting picks.