We relied on, and were burned by, multiple players who are no longer playing here this year. Their replacements all represent higher ceilings and, if you believe the reports, current improvements too.
Terrence Brooks looked amazing for most of the back end of the season. Now he's even better. Manny Muhammad could supplant Watts by season's end. Anthony Cook had some positive moments, but he wasn't great back there, Kitan Crawford was worse. Secondary is significantly improved. Linebacker play should be more than fine, even with DMo's departure. Edge should be an improvement with Ovie gone and Sorrell taking another step forward. Interior DL will hopefully remain as stout.
WR corps is significantly improved. We were relying on two less than healthy guys for most of the year. Worthy was getting double and triple teamed at times. They can't do that anymore now that we brought Mitchell in and Neyor is back from injury. Sanders is back and better. The OL should be significantly improved and will continue to improve as Banks and Campbell get more snaps. Hopefully Neto can show enough in the first few games to take over for Conner earlier in the season.
Improved OL play and greater WR threats should make things easier for the RBs as well. Brooks is more than capable of popping a big gain with his contact balance. CJ Baxter can hopefully pass protect well enough to spell him as much as he needs. TE is fine with JT Sanders and Helm would be a reliable chain mover if needed.
Quinn is focused and more engaged for his season long job interview. He looks fantastic and consistent. I'm curious to see how his on-field demeanor has improved. Big time redemption opportunity for him and Sark. Gotta stay healthy though.
Other than RB, we've pretty much improved across the board. We have staff continuity, and have filled in key gaps other than Edge.
No more excuses, this is the year to remind everyone who we fucking are.