1. Pittsburgh Steelers
The division is filled with solid yet flawed teams. The Steelers are least flawed. The offensive line was already a weakness, and that was before Alan Faneca departed. The defensive line is also aging, so in the trenches, this team isn't what it used to be, and that's a major area of concern. The drafting of Rashard Mendenhall improves the running game, especially in short-yardage situations. Santonio Holmes is long on talent, and he's a future superstar. Ben Roethlisberger takes too many sacks, but he's the key difference maker in the division. He's a top-5 player in football playing the most important position on the field.
2. Cleveland Browns
The Browns were the surprise team of 2007, and the requisite hype has followed that into this season. Cleveland's schedule gets much tougher, including more games under the lights than the defending Super Bowl champs. Never has this team played with such expectations. The additions of Corey Williams and Shaun Rogers to the D-line could prove huge, but the secondary remains a huge problem. The offensive line is a big strength, as are Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards. Derek Anderson is the key, and the fact his YPA dropped from 8.2 to 6.2 over the second half of last season is some concern, but it was his first year as a starter, and the weather also played a role. Brady Quinn could be an adequate replacement if need be, but he's more of a check down guy at this stage of his career, whereas Anderson attacks downfield like no other.
3. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals have stars at quarterback and wide receiver, but that's about it. The defense remains a big problem, although adding Antwan Odom and Keith Rivers could help. The offensive line makes Palmer's job much tougher, as it's not a strong unit. If all three wide receivers can stay healthy and out of prison, the passing game won't be easy to defend, especially with Ben Utecht now in the fold. Still, this team is soft and can't play on the road. Of all the divisions in the NFL, this one would surprise me least if my predicted order was reversed at season's end.
4. Baltimore Ravens
This defense could return to elite status, as the line is awfully strong and the secondary tough with a healthy Chris McAlister and the addition of Fabian Washington. The offense, however, is a problem, starting with the line, which is unproven and lost Jonathan Ogden to retirement. Rookie Ray Rice adds a much-needed new dimension to the backfield, and he looks like the future at the position for Baltimore. Todd Heap is perpetually banged up, and unfortunately, Mark Clayton looks like the new Michael Clayton. The team better hope Troy Smith makes it back on the field as soon as possible, because Joe Flacco certainly isn't ready.