26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Jameis Winston era has officially begun in Tampa. The Buccaneers drafted Winston with the 1st overall pick in the draft, and with good reason. The 6-4 rookie out of Florida State is coming from a pro style offense. His only problem is his off the field issues that have hurt him in college.
Winston will be throwing to Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson, both caught over 65 receptions for over a thousand yards, and look to build on those numbers with a new quarterback calling the shots. Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier’s unit finished 25th last year, and gained some big talent over the offseason. There is a lot to look forward to in Tampa Bay as far as football is concerned, it’s just a matter of when.
25. New Orleans Saints
The loss of Jimmy Graham and Kenny Stills show that the 49ers are shifting away from the passing game and going towards more of a run heavy offense. Newly acquired running back C.J. Spiller will pair up with Mark Ingram to form a dynamic duo in the backfield to help take the load off of All Pro quarterback Drew Brees.
The Saints defense finished 30th last year, but the additions of Brandon Browner, Dannell Ellerbe, Kyle Wilson, and Anthony Spencer should give the Saints a bit more help. Even at no. 22 in these rankings, the Saints could still make the playoffs due to the weakness of their division.
