International Friendlies

Returning to the Super Bowl after losing the previous year is a huge ask – but Philadelphia Eagles are perhaps a team who have the resolve to get back to the showpiece and go one better. The Eagles went 14-3 in the regular season last year and are projected to have in the region of 13 wins in 2023, despite facing a tougher schedule. If they are able to match those expectations, they could well end up being the number-one seed in the NFC once again – putting them in a strong position for Super Bowl redemption.

Philadelphia Eagles blew up in the Super Bowl but have improved what was already one of the best squads in the league during the off-season. They have star quality in quarterback Jalen Hurts and will be eager to avenge their Super Bowl loss.

Atlanta Falcons managed respectable 7-10 records in Arthur Smith’s first two seasons in charge and have built a well-rounded squad, spending big to address their defence in the offseason. The Falcons have drafted a host of offensive talent over the last three seasons, including potentially a generational talent in running-back Bijan Robinson and can dominante a wide-open division.

San Francisco 49ers finished four games better off than the Seattle Seahawks in last year’s NFC West standings and can maintain that gap. If they can keep the likes of Deebo Samuel, George Kittle and quarterback Brock Purdy fit they have a solid offence and their defensive unit is one of the best in the league.

The Detroit Lions recovered from a dreadful to go 8-2 in their final ten games of last season and they are justified favourites ahead of a Vikings side that rode their luck last season and a Green Bay Packers outfit in transition after Aaron Rodgers left.

Buffalo Bills underwhelmed in the play-offs last season but have retained the core of their impressive offence and have a favourable schedule compared to the New England Jets, who may need time to adapt after the arrival of Aaron Rodgers.

The Cincinnati Bengals have topped their division for the last two seasons and, while they may have a tougher time besting the improving Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns, they can call upon the best quarterback in the division in Joe Burrow, who can make all the difference.

The AFC South is one of the worst divisions in the NFL and Jacksonville Jaguars can take the crown for a second straight year. Trevor Lawrence has another full season under his belt at quarterback and the Jaguars have made some solid additions in the draft.

It’s hard to back against a side that have won seven consecutive AFC West titles and are the reigning Super Bowl champions. Once again, Patrick Mahomes will take charge of an exciting offence and Andy Reid remains head coach. This should be business as usual for the Chiefs.