2023 NFC East predictions: Can the Cowboys retake the throne?

4. Washington Commanders (5-12)

The Commanders are such an interesting case that will be very interesting to watch in 2023. Starting with the coaching staff, there's not a whole lot to like other than Ron Rivera's personality. As a coach, he's struggled in recent years.

On offense, Sam Howell has been given the reigns, which is going to be one of the most volatile situations to watch in the NFL this year. Unfortunately, I see Howell having a lot of growing pains as a rookie, despite a promising preseason showing. Given his very questionable offensive line and lack of depth at skill positions, it may not be enough to keep up with other even average offenses in the league.

On the defensive side of the ball, they have so many good pieces, but they have kind of struggled to really put it all together. A breakout season from Kam Curl at safety was good to see for Washington fans, but the rest of the secondary, mostly the cornerback room, is unknown. As for the front-seven, former No. 2 overall pick Chase Young has yet to have a good, healthy season in years.

Overall, this team has too many question marks to bet on to win the division, or finish anywhere above third-place for that matter. In this prediction, Howell struggles and the defense doesn't see much improvement from last year, and with tough competition inside the division, it will be hard to get momentum going in their favor.