With Donovan McNabb being traded to Washington, the NFC East has a different look. So who has the inside track at winning the division?
Dallas Cowboys
Case for » Tony Romo finally proved he could win a playoff game. This is the most talented team in the division and maybe in the NFL. On offense, the Cowboys were one of only two teams to have a top-10 rushing and passing attack — the other was the Super Bowl champion Saints. On defense, Dallas ranked fourth against the run and features dominant pass rusher DeMarcus Ware.
Case against » Dallas cut tackle Flozell Adams. Although Adams had his faults, he made five Pro Bowls. The Cowboys have an aging offensive line and a hole at safety that needs to be addressed in the draft.
New York Giants
Case for » New York averaged 25.1 points a game last season, but allowed 26.7 — third worst in the NFL. An underperforming front four could have a bounce back season with a healthy secondary and if Alabama middle linebacker Rolando McClain drops to the Giants at No. 15 in the draft.
Case against » What happened to the identity of the Giants? Opponents looked forward to facing their defense and New York failed to have a 1,000-yard rusher after having two in 2008.
Philadelphia Eagles
Case for » The Eagles defense pressures the quarterback and forces turnovers. Kevin Kolb is inexperienced, but surrounded with explosive playmakers — DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, LeSean McCoy and Brent Celek.
Case against » Without McNabb and Brian Westbrook, the Eagles have put a lot of pressure on their young players. Jackson, Maclin, McCoy and Celek have a combined 7 years experience and Kolb has just two NFL starts.
Washington Redskins
Case for » The Redskins have had a top-10 defense the last three seasons and finally addressed their offensive problems with the acquisition of several veterans — McNabb and running backs Larry Johnson and Willie Parker. But coach Mike Shanahan might have the biggest impact on Washington’s offense.
Case against » There’s a completely different look on offense and a new system on defense. By acquiring a bunch of vets, their window may be small. They also need to protect McNabb. Drafting Russell Okung would help.
