NFL 2023-24 Season AFC Contender Ranked – While the 2023-24 upcoming NFL season is yet to kick off, rankings and predictions are in full force. Today we turn our focus onto the AFC conference to assess and rank its top contenders for next season, including reigning Super Bowl Champions Kansas City Chiefs, Cincinnati Bengals, and Buffalo Bills, who many consider Super Bowl favorites.
Kansas City Chiefs Are Undefeated Champions
The Kansas City Chiefs, led by Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes, remain a formidable opponent. Mahomes’ exceptional talents combine perfectly with Reid’s coaching prowess to make them perennial championship contenders. Although losing Orlando Brown Jr. on offense was significant, moves were taken to address it through signing Donovan Smith and Jawaan Taylor to protect Mahomes; at wide receiver, there are Kadarius Toney, Marquez Valdes-Scantling Skyy Moore as playmakers alongside Travis Kelce at tight end providing potency on offense.
NFL 2023-24 Season AFC Contender Ranked: Cincinnati Bengals Are Building an Elite Roster
Cincinnati Bengals appear poised for an extended postseason run following their acquisition of Orlando Brown Jr. through free agency to bolster their offensive line and protect quarterback Joe Burrow. Furthermore, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd offer talented comprehensive receiving options contributing to aerial dominance. However, Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell’s departure leaves questions regarding the composition of the secondary unitgoes.
Buffalo Bills Have A Well-Balanced Roster
Buffalo Bills (second in AFC odds to win the division) possess an experienced roster led by quarterback Josh Allen who is considered an MVP candidate. Running back Damien Harris, signed in free agency, allows Allen to manage his rushing attempts more effectively while rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid adds a new dimension. Also returning is Von Miller alongside an elite defensive unit, including safety Jordan Poyer, ensuring their defense remains formidable throughout 2018.
Ravens, Jets, Jaguars, and Dolphins Look to Make an Impression
There will undoubtedly be tough competition for the Chiefs, Bills, and Bengals. This season is sure to be entertaining as the Ravens, Jets, Jaguars, and Dolphins pose a threat to other opponents in the league.
Baltimore Ravens Are Underrated Contenders
Baltimore Ravens often go unnoticed, yet their potential as serious contenders is undeniable. Now that Lamar Jackson’s contract has been settled, he could return to MVP form while making significant additions such as Odell Beckham Jr and Zay Flowers to their receiver corps. Even last season, with limited playing time for Jackson, they managed a 10-7 record thanks to John Harbaugh, and their defense ranking seventh overall according to DVOA ratings only further solidifies their chances.
New York Jets Expectations Revive Following Aaron Rodgers Arrival
The New York Jets made headlines this offseason after striking an unprecedented deal to acquire quarterback Aaron Rodgers from Green Bay Packers in an unparalleled trade deal, instantly vaulting them into Super Bowl discussions while raising questions as to his adaption time and whether an immediate deep playoff run can be expected from them. Still, their talent stretches both on defense and offense, with rookie standouts Sauce Gardner and Garrett Wilson being standout performers; combined, this team could prove formidable against any AFC opponent.
Jacksonville Jaguars and Trevor Lawrence Take A Step Forward
The Jacksonville Jaguars look to take another leap forward with third-year quarterback Trevor Lawrence at the helm. Under head coach Doug Pederson’s guidance, Lawrence hopes to build on their 2022 campaign, where they reached the divisional round of playoffs. Wide receiver Calvin Ridley provides explosiveness on offense, while guard Brandon Scherff and tackle Anton Harrison are essential additions that strengthen their offensive line and fortify it further. Travon Walker must develop into an impact defensive pass rusher as part of an effective unit for Jacksonville to grow into.
Miami Dolphins Rely On Tua’s Health for Success
Miami Dolphins could emerge as one of the standout teams during the 2023 season if quarterback Tua Tagovailoa can remain healthy during off-season training sessions and reduce head injury risk. Last season when Tagovailoa played, their offense averaged 26.4 points per game, averaging 26+. The addition of cornerback Jalen Ramsey further strengthens an already impressive secondary.
As NFL season 2023-24 draws nearer, AFC contenders look to assert dominance and make a run for the Super Bowl. While teams like the Chiefs, Bengals, and Bills may have top billing, Ravens, Jets, and Jaguars Dolphins cannot be forgotten either! These formidable squads promise exciting competition in 2023-24!