Who would be that team in 2010?

Who would be that team in 2010? After missing the playoffs in 2009, it would be easy to suggest a team like the Pittsburgh Steelers would rebound; even though the division they're in makes it tough for anyone to assure a lock for a playoff berth. The San Francisco 49ers have as good a shot as any, considering the NFC West is arguably the least competitive division in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals going through many downgrades throughout the offseason.

Of the twenty teams that didn't make the playoffs in 2009, one must consider Chad Ochocinco  the offseason moves, as well as the moves from the competition in their division.

During the offseason, the Oakland Raiders picked up a quarterback in Jason Campbell; a vast improvement over JaMarcus Russell. Improving the 26th ranked team defense, the Raiders drafted linebacker Rolando McClain and defensive tackle LaMarr Houston while trading for linebacker Kamerion Wimbley and defensive end Quentin Groves and signing John Henderson. Having a defense that incorporates youth with veterans will assuredly help a defense that has an offense like the San Diego Chargers in the same division.

However, in the same division, you have to ask who else has improved? The Denver Broncos traded their best wide receiver in Brandon Marshall and their tight end Tony Scheffler with a quarterback competition between Kyle Orton, Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn expected. Kansas City made moves that will improve their offense by keeping receiver Chris Chambers and signing running back Thomas Jones Andre Smith while improving the defense through the draft with safety Eric Berry and Javier Arenas. While the Chiefs are noticeably improved, it's questionable if they'll be ready for a playoff run. While the team signed receiver Josh Reed, the San Diego Chargers will lose their primary receiver Vincent Jackson, who will serve a three-game suspension to start the season.

 

The most important offseason move might have been the re-signing of right guard Bobbie Cincinnati Bengals jerseys Williams, whose return brings back a unit that played better than expected last season, particularly in the running game. The Bengals were 9th in the league in rushing offense and averaged 4.1 yards per carry. Whether quarterback Carson Palmer can elevate his game or not, will determine their ultmate success. What many don't realize is that the Bengals were surprisingly 26th in overall passing offense last season. In a pass-dominated league, they will definitely have to improve that. Moreover, with a possibility of a Cedric Benson suspension, Palmer may have to take this team by the reigns and carry a majority of the load. If Chad Ocho Cinco can keep his mind on football and tune out all the extra-curricular activities, it should provide a huge helping hand for Quarterback Carson Palmer. The 2010 Cincinnatti Bengals AFC North Odds to win the division is