NFL Preseason Preview: AFC North

The AFC North is set to be a division of two halves in 2023, the haves (Bengals and Ravens) and the maybe-have-somethings (Browns and Steelers). It is a division full of intrigue with Super Bowl contenders and bitter rivalries.

The Browns finished 7-9 last year, a record befitting of a mediocre roster, which they are for the most part. But things could change this year if Deshaun Watson kicks on. A solid o-line, combined with incredibly talented running back Nick Chubb and the impressive Amari Cooper as offensive weapons, this has the look of a high-flying offense in 2023.

A defense of mostly JAGs supplemented with standout players Myles Garrett at defensive end and Denzel Ward at corner. The biggest addition of the offseason for the Browns was the hiring of Jim Schwartz as defensive coordinator. Schwartz is a wily veteran of a DC whose aggressive ‘wide-9’ scheme should see Garrett putting up monster sack numbers.

The Browns could well push on in 2023 and push for a wildcard spot in the playoffs, but the roster is probably not talented enough to make a deep playoff run. It would not be surprising to see them exceed their win total from last season, but somewhere around .500 feels about right.

If Lamar Jackson stays healthy, this could well be the most fun offense to watch in the league. New OC Todd Monken is set to unleash a whole new scheme that should play to Jackon’s strengths. The addition of Odell Beckham Jr. should have Ravens fans excited even if he isn’t the player of old. Rookie Zay Flowers is no slouch either.

After the acquisition of Roqun Smith in a midseason trade last year, the Ravens’ D is looking like one of the best around. Kyle Hamilton and Marlon Humphrey are standouts on a very solid looking secondary. Their job could be made easier by their offense consistently putting up points as well.

A genuine Super Bowl contender in 2023, the Ravens will be hoping they can maximize Lamar Jackson’s prime. The additions of OC Monken along with new weapons on the outside make this look like a formidable points-scoring machine. Expect them to be in a tough battle for the division title.

Kenny Pickett was far better than most expected in his rookie season, so the fate of the Steelers moving forward depends on how well he can kick on. Najae Harris, Diontae Johnson and George Pickens make up a talented core of offensive weapons. If everything clicks, it could be a fun offense to watch, if not spectacular.

There aren’t many pass-rushing duos in the league more talented than T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, both capable of getting to the QB in a hurry, they are both matchup nightmares for opposing offenses. The secondary is highlighted by Minkah Fitzpatrick but the depth around is solid enough. This should be an above-average D in 2023.

Pittsburgh isn’t looking especially good in 2023, but they are certainly talented enough to be in wildcard contention. Mike Tomlin is one of the very best coaches in the league and will get the best out of a roster that is lacking in offensive superstars, but certainly has a good deal of talent.

Cincinnati is an offensive juggernaut. Led by Joe Burrow at QB and Tee Higgins and Jamar Chase at wideout, this is an offense ready to explode again in 2023. The o-line is still underwhelming, but the addition of Orlando Brown at left tackle will help shore things up a little. The nature of Burrow's calf injury could have big implications on their offensive production in 2023.

The key to the Bengals’ defense is their genius defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Personnel-wise, they have some useful players in defensive ends Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard, as well as the very solid DJ Reader at DT and Chidobe Awuzie, but no one really standouts. They are very good and being good enough in the big moments, that’s their great skill.

One of the very best teams in the NFL coming off an AFC Championship appearance in 2022 and a Super Bowl loss in 2023, will they get over the final hurdle this time and take home the Super Bowl trophy? It is entirely possible. If Burrow's calf injury is worse than feared, that will be a big blow to the Bengal's early season prospects.

The AFC North is chock full of talent, but none more exciting to watch than the Ravens’ Lamar Jackson. Probably the best running QB in the league when healthy and with a great feel for how to get the best out of his receivers, Jackson could well be in contention for another MVP award.

With two of the very best pass rushers in the country in T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett in this division, it would be easy to go for one of those two. But if the Ravens are to fulfill their potential next year, it could well come down to Roquan Smith at middle linebacker. 

1. Bengals
2. Ravens
3. Browns
4. Steelers