What non-playoff teams could be very good next year? Here are my guesses:
NFC West - Cardinals with a rookie QB gets a full offseason to jell with amazing crew of skill players. OL can only get better. Defense hasn't been too horrible. This team could easily be next year's Saints.
NFC South - Bucs, as the Panthers and Falcons look shot for next year and the Saints could come back down some as the win one for NO theme wears thin. Rookie QB getting reps and comfort as well and skill position players aren't that bad. Defense does need to get better.
NFC North - Packers with all the crap they have dealt with in injuries and turning over the roster could pay off. They might do enough to get Favre to come back for one more shot.
NFC East - Redskins in another spot where the QB gets some reps and comfort. Defense shows signs of strength along with breakdowns. Owner and GM won't sit on the sidelines, they want to be competitive.
AFC West - Chiefs might improve, but tough to get to the top. Chargers and Broncos are going to be hard to beat next year with most key players locked up and only a few holes on each to improve upon.
AFC South - Titans, but not saying much though they already look like they can contend. Jeff Fisher is a miracle worker.
AFC North - Steelers, just need to control the turnovers and upgrade the defense a bit and they can return to elite status. Signs of it already with their recent form.
AFC East - Bills show good form once in awhile, but they really need a solid QB to put it all together. Defense a bit too inconsistent as well, maybe just a couple of pieces away.
It may seem crazy to ever put faith in the Cardinals, but no one will get on their bandwagon after this year's disappointment. However they look like a can't miss opportunity next year with a real home-field and such a weak division. I'll be buying some futures as soon as they go up to win the NFC.