When you have the defending Super Bowl champions in the division, you can bet that it will make for some compelling action. That is exactly what is in front of the NFC East division in 2012 as the New York Giants look to repeat their championship run from a season ago. But how are things stacking up heading into the year?
At this point in time last season, the talk of the NFC East, and really the NFL for that matter, were the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles had assembled themselves an All-Star roster, bringing in notable free agents, while also locking down quarterback Michael Vick. But all of that star power did not pump out a Super Bowl championship, division title, or even a playoff berth. But with a renewed vigor, the Eagles are determined to get back to the top of the ladder in the NFC East and make a run at making it to New Orleans in the beginning of February.
It’s the Giants who the division will be chasing though, as the defending Super Bowl champions. Yet they have had a relatively quiet offseason, going about their business as Eli Manning looks for a third Super Bowl championship. He has definitely put himself in the category of elite quarterbacks. New York caught fire at the right time last season, despite being the No.5 seed in the playoffs. Looking ahead to 2012, New York looks poised to try and repeat their title, a feat that has proven to be extremely difficult in the NFL.
The Washington Redskins usher in the RGIII era in their organization. Quarterback Robert Griffin III was the No.2 overall draft selection, for which Washington traded up to get him. The Redskins have banked a lot on this Heisman Trophy winner, and there is no doubt that he has all of the tools to turn this franchise around.
And who can forget about the Dallas Cowboys. Of course, when they continue to be on the outside of the playoff picture, it is easier to forget them. But Tony Romo and company have their work cut out for them if they hope to take the division this season in what looks to be highly competitive like usual.
We will certainly be keeping an eye on this division throughout the course of the preseason and on into the season.
Most are leaning towards Philadelphia to take the division, but that was the case last season as well. Don’t surprised if the NFC East comes down to the last week.