The regulations of today’s NFL make it difficult for one team to dominate over a long stretch.
That’s why the New England Patriots’ consistency for two decades is genius work.
The hard salary cap ensures that the league should have a competitive balance each season.
Teams who couldn’t pay for their top stars either trade or release them.
In that case, NFL franchises go through windows of relevancy and futility.
Some teams might make the playoffs again after missing it for several seasons.
In fact, the NFL Media’s Jim Trotter shared a fact that highlights the shifting competitiveness of teams.
Great stat from our NFL Research team: Since 1990 (32 consecutive seasons) at least four teams have qualified for the playoffs after missing the postseason the previous year. Which four are most likely to continue that streak this season? pic.twitter.com/DESxpwOSZJ
— Jim Trotter (@JimTrotter_NFL) May 11, 2022
Trotter tweeted, “Great stat from our NFL Research team: Since 1990 (32 consecutive seasons) at least four teams have qualified for the playoffs after missing the postseason the previous year. Which four are most likely to continue that streak this season?”
Just like in any major American sport, a lot has to happen for a team to remain competitive.
They lose their edge if one of their top players retired or moved to another franchise.
Likewise, injuries are detrimental to a team’s cause.
Locker room drama and external distractions like relocating teams could also dampen the player’s spirits.
Answering Trotter’s Question
There are obvious choices regarding the teams that will qualify in the 2022 playoffs after missing it last season.
The New Orleans Saints barely missed the 2021 postseason and have a roster that should clinch them one of the seven NFC spots.
The same goes for the Miami Dolphins, a team that vastly upgraded their offense by adding the likes of Cedrick Wilson, Chase Edmonds, and Tyreek Hill.
It would also be a travesty if the Denver Broncos did not qualify, given that Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson is now in charge.
Finally, the Los Angeles Chargers should also make it to the playoffs, especially with a defense that has Joey Bosa, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Khalil Mack, Derwin James, and J.C. Jackson.
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