The most wonderful time of the year is back. It is time to bust out the jerseys and enjoy the classic all-American game of football. The 2023 NFL season is deemed to be full of opportunity, high hopes and drive for players on the field.   

In the previous season, AFC West was seen as “the talk of the town.” 

Compromising itself of endless talent from players like tight end Travis Kelce, wide receiver Davante Adams and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. However, the AFC West is not projected to make as much noise as they once did.   

It is believed that the AFC North division will claim higher victory this fall.   

“The (AFC) North is king this year because every team has a shot to reach the postseason,” NFL Columnist Jeffri Chadiha said. “If you want to talk about the favorites to win the division, we’re once again choosing between Baltimore and Cincinnati. The Ravens are eager to prove that quarterback Lamar Jackson can take his game to another level in an offense that is expected to feature a more dynamic passing attack.”   

On the other hand, the NFC South failed to have one team finish with a winning record last season.   

However, the New Orleans Saints recently signed quarterback Derek Carr from the Las Vegas Raiders, who was let go earlier this year. This opens a gateway of possibilities due to Carrs’ ability to perform under pressure. Giving the offense more stability than previous seasons.   

The NFC East poses a threat to many across the league, since the Philadelphia Eagles are one of the top offensive threats this year. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has the capability to stretch the field which placed him second in MVP voting.  

The Dallas Cowboys also have great strength due to All-Pro linebacker Micah Parsons while beefing up its secondary in the offseason through the pairing of star cornerbacks Trevon Diggs and Stephon Gilmore and retaining talent.   

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers exit left a void of expectancy in the quarterback position for the Green Bay Packers.   

As for the rest of NFC North, the Minnesota Vikings are looking to redeem themselves from last year’s playoff loss to the New York Giants. With offensive weapons like wide receiver Justin Jefferson and tight end T.J. Hockenson, the Vikings are looking to make noise in the division.  

The last team to make beneficial changes to their roster were the Detroit Lions. Having depth in all position groups, the Lions are looking to make a louder impact in its division.   

The league’s first game will be Sept. 7, and will air on NBC where the Kansas City Chiefs will host the Detroit Lions. 

Marco Hinojosa is the audience and engagement editor and may be reached at [email protected]