The Blast Furnace: An Alternate Pittsburgh Steelers/NFL History (1992 - ???) M25

[CoachCot]

Description: A Pittsburgh Steelers-centric 1990s and beyond CFM Dynasty. I will be running this along side my modern Steelers CFM (Will resume after the playoffs). This Dynasty will start at the beginning of the 1992 season. Though the dynasty will be Steelers centric my plan is to make sure the league as a whole is covered. How will history play out this go round? Will Cowher lead his home town team to one for the thumb? Will a Cowboy Dynasty exist? Who wins out between Young and Montana in San Fran? Does Marino and Elway get over the hump and win a ring? Do the Bills continue to dominate the AFC? Do HOF players live up to that real life counterparts? Do unforeseen heroes rise up and etch their names in NFL lore?

Game: Madden 25
Slider: SGN Auto-sub/Slider Set up or Custom Sliders developed for roster
Draft Classes: Custom made classes for subsequent season
XP Sliders: SGN/Custom XP Sliders

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Re: The Blast Furnace: An Alternate Pittsburgh Steelers/NFL History (1992 - ???) M25

Season Recaps

1992: TBD

Pro Bowlers

1992: TBD

AP All-Pros/Season Award Winners

1992: TBD

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Re: The Blast Furnace: An Alternate Pittsburgh Steelers/NFL History (1992 - ???) M25

Team Draft Recaps

1993: TBD

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REBOOT

I am rebooting this. I recently found some tools and made some tweaks to my system that will make this more enjoyable for me, more era accurate ball, and more interesting to read hopefully.

[CoachCot]

Jack Monroe’s 1992 NFL Preview

Welcome to the New NFL


By Jack Monroe

Pro Football Weekly – Special Season Kickoff Edition

Buckle up. The NFL you knew? It’s history. The NFL you’re about to watch? It’s bigger, faster, louder — and wide open in every sense.

The 1992 season kicks off a bold new era for professional football. For the first time, the league expands to a full 32 teams, adding franchises in Jacksonville, Carolina, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Some are brand new to the league’s ecosystem. Some are cities reclaiming their football identity. Either way, the map has been redrawn, and the stage just got a whole lot bigger.

To accommodate this growth, the NFL has realigned. Say goodbye to the old East-Central-West formula. Welcome in the North, South, East, and West divisions in each conference — a cleaner, more modern structure designed for long-term rivalries and logical geography. Even the Seattle Seahawks have flipped over to the NFC to make it all work.

But structural changes are just the beginning.

This new-look league comes with a slew of rule and format changes that will shape the future of the game:

• A 17-game regular season — an extra week to sort the contenders from the pretenders.
• Seven playoff teams per conference, meaning only one squad gets a first-round bye. No more coasting in as a #2 seed.
• The two-point conversion is now legal, adding drama and strategy to every touchdown.
• Extra points have been pushed back to make them less automatic. You want your point? Earn it.
• Quarterbacks now have helmet radios — no more sideline relay charades.
• Roster limits expand to 53 players, giving coaches more flexibility and teams more depth.
• A renewed emphasis on offensive freedom — with tweaks to illegal contact and protection rules aimed at opening up the game just a bit more.

And looming over all of this? A potential seismic shift in player movement. Thanks to Reggie White’s antitrust lawsuit and a firm hand from Judge Doty, the NFL and NFLPA are deep in talks that could usher in true unrestricted free agency — a first in league history. The bones of a deal are forming: players with four or more years of service may soon be able to pick their destination without compensation penalties or franchise tags. To balance it out? The league is eyeing a salary cap tied to revenue, likely kicking in by 1994.

So what does it all mean?

It means the NFL is finally entering the modern age — whether it’s ready or not.

Teams are deeper. Schedules are tougher. Coaches have more toys. Quarterbacks are more protected. And rosters are built differently — not just with the draft, but with aggressive trades and long-term planning. The best GMs aren’t just football guys anymore. They’re chess players.

Welcome to the New NFL.

Let’s preview every team — division by division — and see who’s ready for this brave new world… and who’s already a step behind.

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AFC South Team Previews

Houston Oilers


AFC South

Leaving the AFC Central behind isn’t just a change in geography for the Houston Oilers — it’s a fresh slate in a league that’s been reimagined from top to bottom. Houston now takes its place in the newly formed AFC South, a division poised to become one of the NFL’s more compelling battlegrounds.

Coming off an impressive 11-5 campaign in 1991, the Oilers proved they can contend, falling just short by two points in a hard-fought divisional playoff against Denver. Head coach Jack Pardee, entering his third year, has steadily built a team that thrives on offensive firepower and a disruptive defense.

Warren Moon remains the undisputed leader of the Oilers’ offense. His Pro Bowl-caliber 1991, where he topped the league in completions, attempts, and yards — not to mention his knack for clutch fourth-quarter comebacks — sets the tone for Houston’s aerial attack. Though they lost Drew Hill from their trademark Run and Shoot, the acquisition of Webster Slaughter, a former Pro Bowler and familiar face from the Browns, fills that void with experience and speed.

Defensively, Houston boasts a fierce front four anchored by Ray Childress, Sean Jones, William Fuller, and Lee Williams — a quartet that combined for 35 sacks last season and returns intact. Their pass rush is complemented by an All-Pro secondary featuring Cris Dishman and Bubba McDowell, making the Oilers a tough out on both sides of the ball.

As they adapt to new rivals in the AFC South, Houston’s challenge is clear: Can they maintain the balance of offensive explosiveness and defensive tenacity that nearly took them to the AFC Championship last year? With stability in the coaching staff — Kevin Gilbride back as offensive coordinator and Jim Eddy continuing as defensive coordinator — the Oilers have the pieces to make a deeper playoff run.

The 1992 season could be the moment Houston cements its place as a true contender in this bold new NFL era. Now, with the Colts coming off a dismal 1-15 season and two expansion teams joining the division, the Oilers are the clear favorites — a squad that may very well run the table in division play.


Indianapolis Colts


AFC South

If 1991 was a season best forgotten, the Indianapolis Colts are banking on 1992 being their true fresh start. The hometown team limped to a dismal 1-15 record last year, dead last in both offensive yards and points, and barely better on defense. But this year, with new leadership and promising talent, the Colts hope to shed that futility label.

At the helm is Ted Marchibroda, returning for his second stint as Colts head coach after a 13-year hiatus. Marchibroda arrives with a pedigree forged in Buffalo, where as offensive coordinator he masterminded the high-powered “K-Gun” offense that put up 77 points against his former team in 1991 alone. Now, Marchibroda is tasked with rebuilding a Colts offense around third-year quarterback Jeff George — a gunslinger with undeniable arm talent but an inconsistent track record. Patience will be key as George learns the nuances of Marchibroda’s offense, with former Bills wide receivers coach Nick Nicolau stepping in as offensive coordinator to guide the transition.

On defense, the Colts have injected top-tier talent in the draft with three picks in the top 29 overall. Steve Emtman, a dominant defensive lineman lauded as potentially one of the best pass rushers of the last two decades, anchors the line. He’ll be supported by linebacker Quentin Coryatt and cornerback Ashley Ambrose, signaling a focused effort to shore up a defense that ranked near the bottom in both points and yards allowed last season.

Rick Venturi, who served as interim coach to finish 1991, slides back into his defensive coordinator role, giving continuity to the rebuilding defense.

With an AFC South now featuring two expansion teams and a powerhouse Houston Oilers squad, the Colts face an uphill climb. But with Marchibroda’s offensive blueprint, a blossoming young quarterback, and a defense infused with elite rookie talent, Indianapolis looks ready to climb out of the basement — even if it’s a multi-year process.

The Colts are far from favorites, but this is the year the rebuilding begins in earnest.


Jacksonville Jaguars


AFC South
Expansion Team

The NFL’s boldest experiment takes the field in northern Florida this fall — and if you’re expecting overnight success, you might want to recalibrate your expectations.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are one of four expansion teams joining the league in this whirlwind 1992 offseason, and few franchises were handed a steeper climb from the jump. With the expansion process fast-tracked to keep pace with realignment and revenue deals, Jacksonville — like its fellow newcomers — was not permitted to participate in the 1992 NFL Draft. That’s a devastating blow for a brand-new franchise trying to build a core.

So what do they have?

At the top: Owner Wayne Weaver and an unorthodox front office duo of Lee Corso and Dick Beam running the personnel side. Corso, long respected in college coaching circles and now stepping into the GM role, is playing the role of diplomat — the connective tissue between the business side and the football side. Beam, by contrast, is the grinder: evaluating talent, making cuts, and building the roster brick by brick.

On the sideline is Galen Hall, a familiar name in Florida football. Hall’s résumé includes two SEC titles at the University of Florida and, more recently, offensive success with the Orlando Thunder of the WLAF. That connection matters — much of this Jaguars roster is made up of players who followed Hall from the Thunder, bringing some rare continuity to an otherwise patchwork squad of NFL castoffs, fringe players, and WLAF hopefuls. Hall understands the Florida market, and more importantly, how to get the most out of players with something to prove.

Make no mistake — the Jags are in for a tough year. Without a draft class and no blue-chip talent to lean on, they’ll be scrapping for every yard, every win, and every ounce of respect in a division that includes a loaded Houston team and a

Colts squad desperate to climb out of the basement.

But this season isn’t about wins and losses for Jacksonville. It’s about planting roots, establishing a culture, and giving fans a reason to believe. The Jaguars won’t scare anyone in 1992 — but they just might surprise a few.


St. Louis Steamers


AFC South
Expansion Team

Pro football is back in St. Louis — and this time, it feels personal.

After watching the Cardinals pack up and head west to Phoenix, fans in the Gateway City were left with a football void and a lingering chip on their shoulder. That chip might just be the defining feature of the 1992 St. Louis Steamers, one of four expansion franchises joining the NFL during this whirlwind realignment era. The team may be brand new, but the hunger from the fanbase is anything but.

Leading the charge is owner Walter Metcalfe, a respected local figure with deep ties to the city. Metcalfe’s mission was simple: bring the NFL back to St. Louis — and do it with leadership that understands how to build a winner from the ground up.

Enter head coach Mike Riley, who knows a thing or two about winning. Riley comes to the NFL after hoisting two Grey Cups in the CFL (1988 & 1990) and guiding the San Antonio Riders in the WLAF in '91, where he built a strong reputation as a players’ coach with a sharp football mind. Unsurprisingly, many of the players suiting up for the Steamers this fall are WLAF veterans who followed Riley north in search of a bigger stage and one last shot at NFL glory.

General Manager John Peters is tasked with turning that ragtag roster into a functioning football team. With no 1992 draft class to lean on — a tough break all four expansion teams share — the Steamers’ talent pool is largely made up of WLAF holdovers, CFL alums, and NFL castoffs looking to extend their careers.

Despite those challenges, there’s real optimism in St. Louis. For one, they’re joining the AFC, which gives fans something fresh — a new set of rivalries, a new identity, and maybe a cleaner break from the Cardinals’ shadow. And in a division that includes a fellow expansion squad (Jacksonville) and a Colts team still knee-deep in a rebuild, there’s legitimate hope that the Steamers can compete sooner than expected.

They’re not ready to chase Houston just yet — but don’t be shocked if St. Louis becomes the AFC South’s surprise spoiler team before long.

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AFC East Team Previews

Buffalo Bills


AFC East

The heartbreak still lingers in Western New York. Two Super Bowl trips. Two brutal losses. But while others may write off this team as ‘always the bridesmaid,’ the Buffalo Bills fully intend to finish the job — and this may be their best shot yet.

Defending divisional dominance isn’t new to Buffalo. In 1991, they matched their 13–3 record from the previous year and once again secured the AFC East crown. Their K-Gun offense was in full throttle — leading the NFL with a staggering 6,525 total yards and scoring 458 points, second only to Washington.

Jim Kelly was spectacular, throwing for 3,844 yards and a league-high 33 touchdowns on 64.1% completion — posting a 97.6 passer rating. Thurman Thomas dazzled again, rushing for 1,407 yards and adding 631 receiving yards en route to NFL MVP honors. His dual-threat brilliance, backed by reliable backup Kenneth Davis, made the offense virtually unstoppable.

The aerial attack was just as dominant: Andre Reed (1,113 yards, 10 TDs), James Lofton (1,072 yards), and tight end Keith McKeller (434 yards) gave Kelly a staggering arsenal. No huddle, no problem — this team knew how to pile up points in a hurry.

But the Achilles heel was defense. Despite elite performances in 1990, the unit took a major step back in 1991 — finishing 27th in yards allowed and 19th in points allowed. The culprit? Bruce Smith, the 1990 Defensive Player of the Year, missed most of the season with a knee injury. Without their pass-rushing anchor, the front seven faltered, exposing a defense that could get exposed.

Still, the Bills persevered, earning decisive playoff wins over Kansas City (37–14) and Denver (10–7), before being overwhelmed by Washington in Super Bowl XXVI.

Looking ahead to 1992: defensive coordinator Walt Corey returns, and a healthy Bruce Smith gives the Bills their best chance to restore the bite they had two years ago. On offense, veteran QB coach Tom Bresnahan has been promoted to offensive coordinator after Ted Marchibroda left for Indianapolis, keeping the K-Gun terminology and tempo intact.

This division just got harder: Miami revamped and New York is quietly improving, but Buffalo has the edge — a historic offense, a quarterback in full control, and a defense with something to prove.

This is no mere tuning season — it’s redemption time.

Anything less than another Super Bowl run? That would feel like a step backward.



Miami Dolphins


AFC East

It’s hard to say Don Shula is on the hot seat — the man’s a Hall of Famer and an icon in Miami. But here’s the truth heading into 1992: patience is wearing thin. One playoff win in the last six years. A Hall of Fame quarterback in his prime. A fanbase tired of coming up short.

Last year’s 8-8 finish didn’t help.

The Dolphins opened 1991 in a haze, stumbling to a 3-5 start before clawing their way back into the playoff hunt — only to drop their final two games and miss the postseason altogether. On paper, the numbers don’t tell the story of a middling team. Miami finished 6th in scoring and 7th in total offense, powered by the ever-reliable right arm of Dan Marino, who still throws the prettiest ball in the league.

The Marks Brothers — Mark Clayton and Mark Duper — both went over 1,000 yards and reminded defenses that, yes, they can still turn a routine slant into six. And this year, Marino gets a shiny new weapon in Keith Jackson, the Pro Bowl tight end poached from Philadelphia. Jackson adds a dimension Miami hasn’t had since the days of Bruce Hardy — a legitimate middle-of-the-field threat who can take pressure off the outside receivers.

But offense has never really been the problem in South Florida.

The defense? That’s another story.

In 1991, the Dolphins ranked 24th in points allowed and 25th in yards surrendered — numbers that simply don’t cut it in a division with Jim Kelly and that K-Gun circus up in Buffalo. Miami made it a clear mission to fix that side of the ball in the draft, using their first five picks on defense. Top selections CB Troy Vincent and DE Marco Coleman are expected to contribute immediately, while linebacker Bryan Cox — a fifth-rounder turned rookie starter — is developing into a tone-setter in the front seven.

It’s a youth movement on defense, but Shula knows that comes with growing pains. If the Dolphins want to keep pace with Buffalo — or even fend off the rising Jets — they’ll need those young defenders to grow up fast.

This isn’t a rebuild. Not with Marino at the helm. But it is a pivotal moment. The window for this version of the Dolphins isn’t closed… yet. But if they don’t make a serious push this season, the noise around Shula — fair or not — is only going to get louder.

Time to turn numbers into wins.





New York Jets


AFC East

Don’t look now, but the Jets might finally be getting it together.

Coming off a scrappy 8–8 campaign in 1991, the Jets weren’t dominant, but they were competitive — and in a division full of heavyweights, they managed to hang in the fight more often than not. Head coach Bruce Coslet, entering his third year at the helm, has brought a measure of consistency and offensive creativity that’s slowly reshaping the franchise’s identity.

Offensively, New York finished in the top half of the league in both scoring and yardage, with Ken O’Brien putting together a quietly clutch season under center. When he’s protected, O’Brien can still throw with timing and touch, and the receiving corps is nothing to overlook. Al Toon returned to form as a premier target, while Rob Moore emerged as a legitimate threat on the other side. Now, they add first-round pick Johnny Mitchell, a freakish athlete in a tight end’s frame who moves like a wideout. The Jets hope he can stretch the field and punish defenses over the middle — something this offense has lacked.

The run game still needs more juice. Blair Thomas, the former No. 2 overall pick, has flashed talent but struggled with consistency. The offensive line showed some growth late last year, but it’ll need to hold up for the skill players to shine.

Defensively, the Jets played with grit. They weren’t elite statistically, but they were physical and opportunistic. Dennis Byrd is becoming a force up front, and the secondary, led by James Hasty and Brian Washington, held its own against some of the AFC’s top passing attacks.

It’s not a perfect team — depth is still a question, and the pass rush needs help — but this is the most stable the Jets have looked in years. With Coslet’s system now firmly in place, a quarterback who knows the scheme, and a young playmaker in Mitchell ready to contribute, New York could be more than a .500 spoiler this year.

They’re not quite contenders — but for the first time in a while, they’re not a punchline either.




New England Patriots


AFC East

It’s hard to build a team when you’re not sure where that team will be playing next season.

The Patriots enter 1992 in a strange state of limbo. On the field, there’s finally a faint pulse after a dismal 1–15 campaign in 1990. A 6–10 finish last year may not look like much, but it was a step in the right direction under head coach Dick MacPherson, who’s now tasked with keeping the focus on football while chaos brews above him.

Off the field? That’s where things get messy.

Stadium drama has engulfed the franchise. Owner James Orthwein is pushing hard to relocate the team, and his public power struggle with stadium landlord Robert Kraft has turned ugly. Orthwein wanted to move the team to St. Louis, reclaiming his hometown's football identity. But the NFL just dropped an expansion team — the Steamers — right into that very market, throwing a wrench in his relocation ambitions.

So for now, the Pats are staying put. But the uncertainty has cast a shadow over everything — from ticket sales to player morale.

Still, the front office has made a clear effort to rebuild through the trenches. After spending two first-round picks in 1991, the team followed up by selecting offensive lineman Eugene Chung in the first round of the 1992 draft — continuing their effort to lay a foundation up front. The Pats hope that investment starts to bear fruit this fall.

Quarterback remains a revolving door. Hugh Millen started last year but has yet to establish himself as the long-term answer, 9 TDs to 18 INTs in 1991. On the bright side, the Patriots have a talented group of playmakers who’ve flashed pro bowl-level potential. Irving Fryar remains a dynamic deep threat, while wide receivers Greg McMurtry, Michael Timpson, and tight end Marv Cook have all shown the ability to make clutch plays and keep defenses honest. 2nd year TE and 1991's 5th round pick Ben Coates has also flashed this summer according to team officials. With these weapons on the field, the Patriots’ offense could surprise — provided the quarterback situation stabilizes. The running game was serviceable, and the defense played hard, if unspectacularly. It’s clear the roster still lacks top-end talent.

There’s reason for cautious optimism — but only if the ownership circus doesn’t swallow this thing whole. The Patriots are trying to build something. But until they know where they’ll be building it, it’s hard to know what the future really looks like.

One thing’s certain: the fight for New England’s football soul has only just begun.

AFC North Team Previews

Baltimore Ravens


AFC North

You can almost hear the city exhale. Baltimore finally has football back. And not just any expansion franchise — this team has teeth, a chip on its shoulder, and a city hungry to prove it belongs.

The man behind the curtain? None other than Peter Angelos, the high-powered Baltimore attorney who is attempting to pull the Orioles out of chaos, now sets his sights on turning this brand-new Ravens franchise into a point of pride. Angelos didn’t just want a team — he wanted an identity. A team that hits hard, plays with purpose, and reflects the city’s no-frills, hard-nosed character.

To do that, he turned to Larry Little, Hall of Fame offensive lineman and anchor of the Dolphins’ 1970s dynasty. Little doesn’t mince words and doesn’t care for flash. He’s built his coaching philosophy around physicality and discipline — and that’s exactly what the Ravens plan to bring to the field every Sunday. Expect power football, heavy doses of aggression on both sides of the ball, and a culture that demands toughness.

General Manager Peter Hadhazy, formerly of the Browns, is tasked with building this thing from the ground up — and it’s no easy job. Because of the timing of the franchise's approval, the Ravens weren’t eligible for the 1992 NFL Draft, leaving them to scrape together a roster from WLAF talent, NFL castoffs, and fringe veterans looking for redemption or one last shot. It’s a patchwork group for now, but Hadhazy is betting on hungry players and overlooked pieces — and in this town, that underdog mindset fits just fine.

Baltimore knows this won’t be a playoff team in year one. But there’s excitement — and more importantly, belief. The Ravens may not win many games in 1992, but they’ll punch every opponent in the mouth and make sure the AFC North knows they’ve arrived.

This isn't just a football team. It's Baltimore’s statement to the league: We're back. We're loud. And we’re not going anywhere.



Cleveland Browns


AFC North

The Browns might not be loud. They’re not flashy. But if you look closely, you’ll see something dangerous simmering under the surface in Cleveland — a foundation finally starting to set.

Bill Belichick enters year two as head coach, and while his 6–10 debut didn’t turn heads, it did turn corners. His blueprint is becoming clearer: smart football, mistake-free execution, and a roster built for versatility over star power. And the Browns were close — six of their ten losses came by a touchdown or less.

At quarterback, Bernie Kosar remains one of the most efficient passers in the AFC. He may not put up gaudy numbers like the guys in Houston or Buffalo, but he knows how to move the chains and protect the football. His unorthodox delivery still frustrates scouts — and still beats defenses.

To help him, the Browns brought in a familiar face: tight end Mark Bavaro, who returns to the NFL after sitting out 1991 with knee trouble and briefly contemplating retirement. If Bavaro is even 80% of the All-Pro he was in New York, Cleveland just added a serious weapon to the passing game.

The Browns also invested in the ground game with the selection of Tommy Vardell in the first round — a bruising back out of Stanford who fits Belichick’s physical identity to a tee. Pair him with a solid offensive line and Kosar’s steady hand, and this offense could quietly wear teams down.

Defensively, the Browns were middle of the pack in 1991, but the group plays hard and buys into Belichick’s scheme. They’ll need continued growth from young talent and a few healthy seasons from key veterans to truly elevate, but don’t be surprised if this defense becomes a real asset by midseason.

Cleveland isn’t chasing headlines. They’re chasing wins — one methodical step at a time. And if Belichick can keep building the way he wants, the Browns could become a real problem for the rest of the AFC North sooner than most expect...especially with no Houston in the division.





Cincinnati Bengals


AFC North

No more smoke and mirrors — the rebuild in Cincinnati is officially underway.

After limping to a 3–13 finish in 1991, the Bengals finally cut ties with Sam Wyche, ending an era that once brought them within striking distance of a Super Bowl ring but ultimately fizzled out in frustration. In his place steps David Shula, 33 years old and the youngest head coach in the league. He’s got the pedigree — son of Don — but questions linger about whether he’s ready to command a room full of veterans, especially with expectations always lurking in the shadows of past success.

One of those veterans is Boomer Esiason, still under center… for now. Cincinnati made it clear they’re looking to the future by drafting David Klingler in the first round. The cannon-armed product of Houston put up video game numbers in college and is now waiting patiently — or maybe not so patiently — for his shot. Esiason starts 1992 as QB1, but don’t be surprised if Klingler gets a look sooner than later, especially if the losses pile up.

Former Pro Bowler Eddie Brown is in camp but still waiting on medical clearance after a serious health scare. His status remains a big question mark.

Defensively, things might be even more unsettled. The Bengals were near the bottom of the league in 1991, and now they’re without Dick LeBeau, who left to join the Steelers’ staff. There’s no clear identity on that side of the ball, no rising star to hang your hopes on — just a lot of guys trying to earn a spot and a new staff trying to install structure.

This is the beginning of a new chapter in Cincinnati. It may take time, and the results in 1992 could look a lot like 1991. But with Klingler in the building and a young head coach eager to make his mark, the Bengals are betting big on the future — even if it means enduring more lumps in the present.




Pittsburgh Steelers


AFC North

For the first time in over two decades, the Pittsburgh Steelers begin a season without Chuck Noll roaming the sideline. The four-time Super Bowl champion called it a career after 23 seasons, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the identity of the franchise — and a sizable pair of shoes to fill.

Into that vacuum steps Bill Cowher, the 35-year-old former Chiefs defensive coordinator and native of Crafton, Pennsylvania. He brings fresh energy, a hard-nosed philosophy, and a clear mission: reignite the Steelers' toughness and pride. Pittsburgh didn’t hire Cowher to overhaul the culture — they hired him to restore it.

Under center, it’ll be Neil O’Donnell’s job to lose. After splitting time with Bubby Brister last year, O’Donnell flashed enough to earn the Week 1 nod. He’s got poise, accuracy, and a steadiness Cowher clearly values. To guide him, the Steelers brought in veteran coordinator Ron Erhardt, known for his conservative, run-first approach — a logical match for the Steel City’s football DNA.

But that ground game took a hit when former first-round pick Tim Worley was suspended for the year. With Worley out, Merril Hoge moves to more of a blocking and all-purpose role, while Barry Foster steps into the lead back position. Erhardt reportedly saw something on film — a burst, a second gear — and is ready to give Foster the bulk of the carries to prove it.

On the other side of the ball, Cowher brought in Dom Capers to coordinate a defense loaded with emerging talent. The core is young, fast, and hungry: Rod Woodson is already one of the league’s premier corners. Greg Lloyd brings an edge off the edge. Hardy Nickerson and Carnell Lake are on the rise. Add in rookie Darren Perry, who impressed enough to win the starting free safety job and allow the team to ship Thomas Everett to Dallas, and this group could turn into something special.

The Steelers might not be ready to make a deep run in Year One of the Cowher era, but make no mistake — this isn’t a rebuild. It’s a reawakening. And with the Oilers out of the division, the AFC North suddenly feels wide open. Don’t be surprised if this turns into a two-horse race between Pittsburgh and Cleveland — two teams with young cores, physical identities, and something to prove.

AFC West Team Previews

Denver Broncos
AFC West

After a strong 12-4 season capped by a tough 10-7 loss to Buffalo in the AFC Championship, the Broncos enter 1992 with plenty of promise but some major changes. Mike Shanahan, the offensive coordinator who played a key role in their success, has left for San Francisco amid reported clashes with Dan Reeves and John Elway. George Henshaw takes over play-calling duties, tasked with keeping Denver’s offense balanced and explosive.

John Elway remains one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, blending toughness and precision. Gaston Green continues to handle the ground game, while young tight end Shannon Sharpe flashed last year with 22 catches, averaging over 14 yards per reception while starting 9 games. Sharpe is poised for a breakout season as a reliable weapon in the passing attack.

Defensively, Denver remains one of the NFL’s toughest units, finishing 5th in yards allowed and 3rd in points allowed last season. Anchors like hard-hitting safety Steve Atwater, linebacker Dennis Smith, and pass rusher Simon Fletcher (10 sacks) ensure the Broncos stay competitive in every game.

The Broncos are favorites to repeat as division champs, but the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Raiders are eager to close the gap. Denver’s mix of veteran leadership and emerging stars gives them the edge — but nothing in this division comes easy.



Kansas City Chiefs
AFC West

The Chiefs come into 1992 with fresh optimism and a major shakeup under center. Former rival and longtime Seahawks quarterback Dave Krieg arrives to take the reins after a solid career in the 1980s. While his peak years are behind him, Krieg’s experience and sharp accuracy — leading the NFL in completion percentage last year — make him a welcomed upgrade aimed at injecting more life into Kansas City’s passing game.

The ground game remains a physical force with Christian Okoye and Barry Word leading the charge, both bruisers who wear down defenses. Former first-round pick Harvey Williams adds depth and speed in the backfield rotation, giving Kansas City a versatile and punishing rushing attack.

Defensively, there’s a new man calling the shots. Dave Adolph replaces Bill Cowher as defensive coordinator and ushers in a switch from the team’s traditional 3-4 scheme to a 4-3 front. But with studs like Derrick Thomas and Neil Smith terrorizing quarterbacks, the exact alignment might not matter all that much — those two pass-rushers can disrupt any offense.

Kansas City’s challenge in ’92 will be blending Krieg’s veteran savvy with a defense in transition, all while chasing a Broncos team that’s still the class of the division. The Chiefs aren’t done competing — but will the new-look offense be enough to close the gap?



Los Angeles Raiders
AFC West

The Raiders limped into the 1991 playoffs with a 9–7 record, only to get smacked around by the Chiefs in the Wild Card round. Jay Schroeder remains under center, a veteran with a cannon but about as reliable as a cheap tattoo. His arm still has pop, but the offense as a whole feels like it’s missing a pulse, especially in the run game.

Enter Eric Dickerson — the Raiders pulled off a bold move, sending the Colts their 4th and 8th-round picks to snag the former superstar back. If Dickerson can recapture even a fraction of his old magic, the ground game could finally offer some balance and give defenses something to worry about besides Schroeder’s arm.

The receiving corps is solid enough, but without balance, defenses are stacking the box and daring Schroeder to beat them.

On defense, however, the silver and black still pack a punch. Greg Townsend, with 13 sacks in 1991, is the terror in the trenches, and Ronnie Lott is still schooling receivers with a masterclass in shutdown secondary play. The front seven may be creaking at the edges, but they still know how to get after the quarterback.

The AFC West has evolved into a jungle, with the Chiefs adding a savvy QB in Dave Krieg and the Broncos pushing hard after their title game appearance. The Raiders’ window for contention is closing fast. Unless they find some answers on offense and get a little more juice out of their aging defense, expect the silver and black to be snarling but ultimately chasing.



San Diego Chargers
AFC West

Here we go again with the Chargers — another offseason, another “turning point,” another promise that better days are ahead. Only this time, it might actually mean something.

San Diego finally cleared the deck and brought in Bobby Ross, fresh off engineering a national title run at Georgia Tech. He’s a no-nonsense, details-matter kind of guy, and for a franchise that’s coasted on underwhelming mediocrity for most of the past decade, that’s a welcome shift. Ross brought in a heavyweight on the defensive side too — Bill Arnsparger, the mastermind behind the ‘70s Dolphins “No-Name” D, now tasked with rebuilding this side of the ball into something tougher than wet tissue.

The Chargers are also scrapping the old 3-4 and moving to a 4-3, a move designed to unleash two of their few legitimate defensive playmakers: Junior Seau and Leslie O’Neal. Seau might just be the heart and soul of the franchise already, and O’Neal can still get after the quarterback like he’s mad at him.

Quarterback? That’s Stan Humphries’ job now, after the Chargers traded for him following a rash of injuries in the QB room. He’s got the tools — and more importantly, he’s not afraid to let it rip. Whether he’s the guy long-term or just a bridge to the next era remains to be seen, but he’s the best option they’ve got for 1992.

Weapons? You bet. Anthony Miller is a legit No. 1 receiver and a Pro Bowl-caliber threat. The backfield committee of Rod Bernstine, Marion Butts, and Ronnie Harmon may not be flashy, but it’s sturdy and diverse enough to carry the load while the passing game gets sorted out.

Chargers fans have every right to be skeptical — they've been promised the moon before and usually ended up with a parking ticket. But there’s a different feel around this team now. Real coaching. Real talent. Real accountability.

They might not challenge for the division crown just yet, not in an AFC West with Denver, Kansas City, and the always-scowling Raiders, but for the first time in years, the Bolts are actually pointed in the right direction.

[CoachCot]

NFC South Team Previews

Carolina Panthers
NFC South

The NFL has officially planted its flag in the Carolinas, and Charlotte is buzzing like it just won the lottery. The Carolina Panthers are here, and while nobody’s expecting miracles in Year One, this city is treating the team like royalty.

Owner Jerry Richardson, a former Colts wide receiver turned Hardee’s mogul, made good on his years-long mission to bring football to the Carolinas. He’s not just writing checks — he’s shaping a culture. He tapped Rick Nichols, the former Oilers GM, to build this thing from the ground up. Nichols knows talent, knows roster-building, and knows patience will be key.

Head coach Chan Gailey brings credibility. He’s done the NFL grind, and most recently helped shape the Birmingham Fire in the WLAF. That’s not just trivia — a chunk of his new roster followed him here. Like the other expansion squads, the Panthers were locked out of the ‘92 Draft, meaning the roster is a patchwork of WLAF players, NFL cast-offs, and guys looking to turn a second (or last) chance into a career.

Still, there’s a real identity forming: toughness, discipline, and just enough offensive creativity to keep things interesting. Gailey’s teams don’t lay down — and this one won’t either.

Don’t expect playoff noise. Heck, a few wins would be cause for a parade. But the Panthers are here. They’re building something. And judging by the fan response in Charlotte? They’re already a hit — now they just have to earn it on Sundays.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC South

Another new coach. Another new scheme. Another reset in Tampa Bay. At some point, you start wondering if the revolving door at One Buccaneer Place is spinning faster than the turnstiles on game day.

Sam Wyche is the latest man tasked with trying to unbury this franchise from a decade of dysfunction. The former Bengals head coach comes in with offensive credentials — he helped build the no-huddle “Sugar Huddle” look in Cincinnati and coached them to a Super Bowl just a few years back. But let’s be clear: he wasn’t the Bucs’ first choice. Word around the league is that Bill Parcells had one foot in the building before backing out at the eleventh hour. Wyche gets the gig anyway — and inherits a roster long on frustration and short on results.

Vinny Testaverde remains the lightning rod in Tampa. The former No. 1 overall pick enters his sixth season with 96 career interceptions in just 62 games. It’s not all on him — he's had coaching changes, suspect protection, and limited weapons — but if Wyche can’t fix him, no one will. The new offense, a west coast-style system with plenty of quick reads and timing throws, might be Vinny’s last lifeline.

Helping him out is the return of Reggie Cobb, who quietly rushed for over 700 yards last year and brings some punch to a backfield that’s been mostly anonymous in recent seasons. Wideout Lawrence Dawsey was a bright spot as a rookie, and the Bucs hope he and veteran Mark Carrier can give Testaverde something to work with on the perimeter.

On defense, Broderick Thomas is still the tone-setter — a high-motor linebacker who can fly all over the field and get to the quarterback. There are some pieces, but not enough yet to scare the rest of the division. Tampa ranked bottom-10 in most defensive metrics last season and will need major improvement just to keep games respectable.

The fans in Tampa have seen this movie before: new coach, new promise, same old results. Wyche is saying all the right things, but until this team figures out how to play clean, consistent football for more than three quarters at a time, it's all just noise.



Atlanta Falcons
NFC South

Style. Swagger. Speed. And just enough chaos to keep things interesting.

The Atlanta Falcons head into 1992 as one of the NFL’s true wildcards — both literally and figuratively. After a 10-6 campaign and a playoff win in '91 (their first since the Carter administration), this team is finally strutting like it belongs in the conversation. And in Atlanta, that conversation usually comes with neon, a bass line, and Deion Sanders high-stepping through it.

Head coach Jerry Glanville is still doing things his way — black cowboy hat, blitz-happy defense, and a tongue that never met a microphone it didn’t like. Love him or loathe him, he’s got the Falcons playing aggressive, confident football. They’ll hit you hard and talk about it after.

At quarterback, Chris Miller quietly had one of the better seasons in the league last year, throwing 26 touchdowns. He returns as the undisputed starter, operating in June Jones' pass-friendly system with weapons like Michael Haynes, Andre Rison, and the ever-dangerous Mike Pritchard giving defenses headaches. If they stay healthy, this group can light it up.

And then, of course, there’s Prime Time. Deion Sanders is still pulling double-duty between football and baseball, but when he’s on the field, he’s a game-changer. His speed alters coverages, disrupts returns, and gives Glanville a Swiss Army knife in the secondary.

The run game is still a work in progress — Erric Pegram started the most games of all Falcon backs last year, but they spent a first round pick on Tony Smith. Atlanta didn’t exactly make the run a priority last year. That has to change if they want to control tempo late in games.

Defensively, it’s all about pressure. The Falcons bring it from everywhere. They’ll get burned sometimes, sure, but Glanville lives with that — he wants turnovers, big hits, and the occasional pick-six. The philosophy is high-risk, high-reward, and in 1991, it worked just enough.

The Falcons aren’t sneaking up on anyone anymore. That playoff win last year was a shot across the league’s bow. Now they’ve got expectations. And if they can balance the flash with a little more substance, they might just take the next step in a very winnable NFC South.


New Orleans Saints
NFC South

They’ve been bruisers. They’ve been bullies. They’ve been one of the most complete defensive teams in football. And now, finally, they’re out from under the shadow of San Francisco.

With the 1992 realignment shaking things up, the New Orleans Saints are no longer locked in the same division as the Niners — and that could be the key to getting past their postseason glass ceiling. The Saints have made the playoffs in three of the last five seasons but never made it out of the Wild Card round. Maybe now, the road forward won’t always run through Joe Montana (or Steve Young) and Candlestick Park.

Of course, they’ll still have to earn it — and Jim Mora’s squad is built to do just that. Start with the defense. The legendary Dome Patrol is still very much in business. Rickey Jackson, Sam Mills, Vaughan Johnson, and Pat Swilling form what might be the best linebacker corps of the modern era — fast, instinctive, vicious, and always hunting. The unit helped New Orleans finish first in points allowed and second in total defense in 1991. They are the identity of this team.

Offensively? It's more of a lunch-pail operation. Bobby Hebert is back under center — not flashy, but efficient and smart with the football. The Saints’ passing game won’t lead the league in highlights, but it’s capable of keeping the chains moving and letting the defense do the heavy lifting.

Dalton Hilliard and Craig Heyward return in the backfield, giving the Saints a thunder-and-lightning combo that can wear teams down and control the clock. Wideouts Eric Martin and Floyd Turner are reliable targets, but nobody’s mistaking this offense for Run & Shoot 2.0. Mora’s formula hasn’t changed: suffocate you on defense, don’t make mistakes, and win the field position war.

New Orleans might not scare you with style points, but they’ll leave you sore on Monday. And with the NFC South wide open and the 49ers no longer hogging their lane, this might finally be the year the Saints do more than just show up in January.

NFC East Team Previews

Washington Redskins
NFC East

There’s a new standard in D.C., and it’s painted in burgundy and gold.

The Washington Redskins come into 1992 as the defending Super Bowl champions — and not just any champs. They were a machine in '91: 14-2 in the regular season, dominant in the playoffs, and an offense-defense-special teams clinic from September through January. Joe Gibbs now holds three Super Bowl titles — each with a different quarterback — and he’s chasing legends in real time.

Don’t let the quiet demeanor fool you. This team has teeth.

Mark Rypien, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, isn’t a superstar in the traditional sense, but he runs this offense like a technician. His deep ball might be the best in the league, and with weapons like Art Monk, Gary Clark, and Ricky Sanders, the “Posse” is still intact and still terrifying. Rypien tossed 28 TDs last year. There’s no reason to think he can’t hover around that number again.

In the backfield, Earnest Byner brings veteran savvy and just enough pop to keep defenses honest. He’s not flashy, but he’s reliable — and in Gibbs’ system, that counts for more than highlight reels.

Up front? Don’t even get started. The Hogs are aging, sure, but they're still the gold standard. Joe Jacoby, Mark Schlereth, Jim Lachey — pick your poison. This group dominates the line of scrimmage and gives Rypien the time he needs to pick teams apart.

And that defense? Still nasty. Charles Mann and Wilber Marshall headline a unit that was second in points allowed and third in yards allowed last season. They don’t blitz a ton, but they don’t have to — they play smart, swarming football and make you pay for mistakes. It’s not just personnel, it’s discipline.

There’s pressure now, no doubt. The Cowboys are coming fast, the Eagles are still a threat, and the NFC East never takes a week off. But Washington has the best coach in the league, a roster full of vets who’ve been to the mountaintop, and a locker room that knows how to win when it counts.

They’re not chasing anyone — they’re the ones being chased. Let’s see how they handle it.


Dallas Cowboys
NFC East

They’re young. They’re loud. They’re stacked. And they might be a year ahead of schedule.

The Dallas Cowboys roll into 1992 as one of the league’s fastest-rising contenders — and everyone knows it. After a 1-15 disaster in 1989, Jimmy Johnson has flipped the script, flipped the roster, and built a bully from scratch. The ‘Boys went 11-5 last year, pushed their way into the playoffs, and flat-out stunned the Bears in the Wild Card round before running into the Lions and Barry Sanders.

But don’t let that loss fool you — the Cowboys aren’t going away. If anything, they’re just getting started.

The engine, of course, is Troy Aikman, who shook off early-career struggles to emerge as one of the most accurate, composed quarterbacks in the league. He doesn’t say much, but he doesn’t have to — he lets his arm do the talking. Michael Irvin has become his go-to guy and a matchup nightmare for corners who can’t keep up with his physicality and route running.

And then there’s Emmitt Smith, the soul of this team. At just 23, he already runs like a seasoned vet — low to the ground, impossible to arm tackle, and always falling forward. He led the league in rushing last year and doesn’t look like he’s slowing down anytime soon.

The offensive line? Young, nasty, and improving. Erik Williams, Mark Stepnoski, Nate Newton — they might not be household names yet, but give it a year.

Defensively, Dave Wannstedt has crafted a unit that is fast, aggressive, and deep. The Cowboys added even more punch in the draft with Kevin Smith, a first-round corner out of Texas A&M who could see action early. But the leader is clear: Charles Haley, acquired in a bold trade from the 49ers before the 1992 season. If he keeps his head on straight, Haley gives Dallas the elite pass-rusher it’s been missing.

There’s still work to be done — they’re young and can get a little loose with the ball. But there’s no question: this team belongs in the contender conversation. And with Washington getting older, Philly battling injuries, and the Giants resetting, the door is cracking open in the NFC East.

If it opens all the way, don’t be surprised if the Cowboys kick it off the hinges.


New York Giants
NFC East

Alright, the Giants showed flashes in ’91 but finished 8-8 — not quite what Big Blue fans were hoping for. Ray Handley’s in year two as head coach, and the pressure’s mounting. This team has talent but hasn’t put it all together yet. No sugarcoating it — they gotta get tougher and more consistent, or the division will chew them up.

Phil Simms still calls the shots under center. He’s not the flashiest arm in the league, but he knows how to manage a game. Problem is, the loss of Mark Bavaro leaves a hole in the receiving corps. Guys have gotta step up and make plays, because defenses won’t cut anyone slack here.

Rodney Hampton’s the workhorse back — a bruiser who can grind out yards. But he’s gotta get some help if the Giants want to keep defenses honest. Running game balance is key, or they’ll be one-dimensional and easy to stop.

On defense, the legendary linebackers are still around — Carl Banks and, if healthy, Lawrence Taylor. Those two can still terrorize quarterbacks and wreck plays, but the defense has shown some soft spots. They need to tighten things up, or they’ll struggle in this tough NFC East.

Speaking of which — this division is no joke. Washington’s still strong, Dallas is on the rise, and Philly never backs down. The Giants can’t afford to take a step back. If Handley’s squad wants a playoff spot, they better bring the fight every single Sunday.

Bottom line? It’s make-or-break time for Big Blue. They’ve got the pieces, but it’s about putting them all together and playing tough football. No more close calls — it’s win or go home.


Philadelphia Eagles
NFC East

Look, the Eagles finished 10-6 in ’91 and still got snubbed from the playoffs. That’s the NFC East for you — tough as nails and no mercy for the good teams. Rich Kotite stepped in as head coach and is still trying to find his footing after Buddy Ryan bounced. Defense has the talent — Reggie White is still a monster - and he ain't the only one.

Now, Randall Cunningham… man, he’s the guy who can flip the switch. Last year? Played just one game, threw four passes, then bam — down for the season. When he’s on, he’s a playmaker like no other — scrambling, throwing darts, making defenses look silly. But the Eagles gotta keep him healthy and get him some solid protection up front.

Fred Barnett’s out there making plays, steady as they come, and Herschel Walker’s a bruiser who grinds it out on the ground like a true warrior. The O-line’s gotta step up, though — they need to open those lanes and give Randall some time, or this team’s gonna struggle to get over the hump.

The division? Forget about it. Giants, Cowboys, Redskins — all hungry. Philly’s got the pieces but needs to put it all together, or they’re just another footnote.

Bottom line? This team’s got fight in ‘em, but they gotta prove it. ’92’s the year to step up or step aside.

NFC North Team Previews

Detroit Lions
NFC North

Alright, the Lions rolled through ’91 with a 12-4 record and NFCCG appearance, but the way it ended left a sour taste in many mouths. Barry Sanders? Man, he’s a freak of nature, the heartbeat of this team, rushing like he’s got rockets strapped to his cleats. When he’s on, defenses just fold.

But it can't just be Barry. The offense has been inconsistent, and quarterback Rodney Peete had flashes but hasn’t fully locked it down yet. He’s got the tools, but the Lions need him to be steady and keep the offense humming.

Defensively? They’re middle of the pack — nothing special, nothing disastrous. Guys like Chris Spielman bring the grit and grind, but the unit needs to tighten up to compete in this rough NFC.

Head coach Wayne Fontes is no stranger to Detroit — he’s been around and knows the city’s pulse. He’s gotta push this team from good to great, especially with stiff competition from the rest of the NFC.

This season? It’s about capitalizing on the talent and making some noise in the division. Barry’s gonna keep lighting it up, but Detroit’s gotta get the rest of the job done to avoid another lopsided exit. Personally, I'm not a believer.



Chicago Bears
NFC North

Listen, the Bears are classic Chicago tough—steel and grit all the way. After a solid ‘91 season that saw them claw into the playoffs, they ran into a buzzsaw: an upset loss to Dallas that left a bad taste for the city. That sting is still fresh, and the team’s itching for redemption.

Defensively, they’re still a monster. Mike Singletary is the heart and soul, and Richard Dent’s pass rush keeps offenses sweating. This unit’s about shutting teams down, hard and fast.

On offense, Jim Harbaugh’s the steady hand, but the Bears need more firepower and consistency if they want to go deep. The run game’s been hit or miss, and they’re counting on some young guns to step up and give defenses fits.

Mike Ditka’s not one to accept excuses—expect him to push this squad hard. Chicago wants to shake off that playoff upset and show the league they’re for real. If they can get their offense humming, this Bears team could be a serious problem come January.


Green Bay Packers
NFC North

Ah, the Pack — a team with history, but lately, they’ve been more “rebuilding” than “contending.” The 1991 season was rough around the edges, finishing well under .500 and showing plenty of holes to fill.

Enter Mike Holmgren, the new head coach with a sharp mind and a reputation for turning offenses around. This guy knows how to get a team clicking, and Green Bay fans are hoping he’s the spark that finally lights the fire under this squad.

Don Majkowski is back under center, but he hasn’t been able to recapture the magic of ’89 since that shoulder injury in ’90. There’s hope Holmgren can help him find that form again — and, crucially, that he stays healthy through the grind of a full NFL season.

To shake things up, the team made an intriguing trade for an unproven Brett Favre from Atlanta — yep, that Brett Favre — who will serve as the backup QB this season. The kid’s got a cannon and a whole lotta potential, and folks in Green Bay are buzzing about what he might become.

The offense has a key weapon in Sterling Sharpe, a receiver who’s flashed plenty of talent and big-play ability, giving the Packers a legitimate threat to stretch the field.

Defensively, they’re still searching for identity. The pass rush was there at times, but not enough to keep opponents honest. Young players have potential, but they need to develop fast in this cutthroat division.

Holmgren’s steady hand and offensive acumen might just be what Green Bay needs to claw back into playoff contention. The Lambeau crowd is patient — they know it’s about the long game, and this new chapter feels like a fresh start.


Minnesota Vikings
NFC North

Alright, listen up — the Vikings are flipping the script in ’92 with Dennis Green at the helm. Green’s got a rep for offense, and Minnesota’s ready for some fireworks. At quarterback, Rich Gannon’s the man under center. He’s got the arm, he's athletic, and now a coach who believes in him. Maybe Gannon will take some big steps this season.

Wide receiver help? Oh yeah. Cris Carter’s a pure route-running machine, and Anthony Carter — no relation — brings speed and game-breaking moves. Together, they give Gannon two serious weapons to stretch defenses. On the ground, Terry Allen is ready to pound it out and keep that offense balanced.

Now, don’t sleep on the defense — these guys are nasty. Chris Doleman’s back to terrorize quarterbacks, Henry Thomas holds down the line, and John Randle is already showing flashes that he’s going to be a monster for years to come.

Minnesota’s got the pieces and the new coach to finally push the needle forward. It won’t be a cakewalk, but expect the Vikings to bring some serious heat in ’92 — a team on the rise, ready to remind the NFC North who’s boss.

NFC West Team Previews

San Francisco 49ers
NFC West

Change comes for everyone — even legends. And in San Francisco, it’s no longer Joe Montana under center… at least not yet. The Hall of Famer-in-waiting is still on the mend from elbow surgery, leaving the reins — once again — in the hands of Steve Young.

And that? Might not be such a bad thing.

Young is no clipboard holder. He’s a dual-threat nightmare with the legs to break a defense's back and the arm to light it up from the pocket. His 1991 season — a 101.8 rating — proved he’s not just keeping the seat warm. He’s commanding the damn huddle.

Of course, it helps when you’ve got that guy on the other end of your passes. Jerry Rice, still the best wide receiver in football, is back to make cornerbacks question their career choices. And John Taylor, criminally underrated, keeps defenses from doubling up too often. Tight end Brent Jones is a chain-mover, and fullback Tom Rathman does the dirty work nobody talks about — but everyone respects.

The ground game? Ricky Watters is ready to roll after a redshirt rookie year due to injury. Word is he’s explosive — and with this offensive line, that could be dangerous.

Now let’s talk defense. This unit isn’t just riding the coattails of the offense anymore. Charles Haley’s gone (more on that in the Cowboys preview), but there’s still firepower up front, with Pierce Holt, Michael Carter, and Kevin Fagan bringing the heat. Linebackers Bill Romanowski and Tim Harris bring brains and bite.

New OC Mike Shanahan has a proven track record and replaces Mike Holmgren. He will look to keep the offensive machine rolling

Bottom line? This team’s got the talent to win it all. Again. The only question is whether Montana’s shadow looms large — or if Steve Young finally steps fully into the light.

Either way, they’re still the team everyone in the NFC West is chasing. And they know it.


Phoenix Cardinals
NFC West

Pack the bags — the Cardinals are heading West. After years getting battered in the black-and-blue NFC East, Phoenix finally catches a logistical break and lands in the new-look NFC West. The only question now? Will the change of scenery lead to a change in fortunes?

Let’s not sugarcoat it — 1991 was another long, hot walk through the desert. A 4–12 finish, dead last in the old division, and a roster still looking for an identity on both sides of the ball. But there are some flickers of hope as they reset in a new division.

At quarterback, Chris Chandler has the inside track. The offense needs direction, and second-year head coach Joe Bugel is hoping a little stability under center will help him finally get his beloved "Hogs West" offensive line playing to potential.

There is talent at the skill positions. Ricky Proehl turned heads with another solid season. Johnny Johnson looks to show he is still a workhorse in the backfield, capable of carrying the load when healthy and engaged. But this group has to prove it can put points on the board — they finished bottom-five in scoring last year, and you’re not winning many shootouts in the NFC West like that.

On defense, Eric Hill is a tackling machine at linebacker, and safety Tim McDonald is the glue in the secondary — one of the best safeties in the league that nobody talks about. OLBs Ken Harvey and Freddie Joe Nunn provide a pass rush, but a few stars can’t carry a whole unit, and this group gave up over 20 points per game. That has to change, fast.

Now, the silver lining? The division? No more Cowboys. No more Eagles. Instead, the Cards get new neighbors like the Seahawks, Rams, and 49ers. It’s not exactly a vacation.

If Phoenix is ever going to make noise out west, 1992 better be the year they start speaking up.



Los Angeles Rams
NFC West

Here’s the hard truth in Hollywood: the Rams haven’t just fallen from grace — they’ve tumbled down a flight of stairs, face-first. After a 3–13 disaster in 1991, John Robinson was shown the door, and now the Rams hit the reset button with a new head coach, a new vision… and a mountain to climb in the NFC West.

Enter Chuck Knox — and no, it’s not a typo. “Ground Chuck” returns for a second act in L.A., more than a decade after his original run with the Rams in the '70s. This time around, the job’s bigger, the expectations lower, and the roster? Well, it needs work.

The Rams are hoping their 1992 first-round pick, DT Sean Gilbert, becomes a cornerstone on defense. The big man out of Pitt has all the tools — size, quickness, motor — and he’ll need to make an immediate impact up front. Because last year’s defense? It ranked 27th in yards allowed and was flat-out bullied in the trenches.

The offense, once the pride of the franchise, is searching for a spark. Jim Everett is still the quarterback, but the days of him chucking 30 touchdowns feel like a distant memory. His protection was shaky last season, and the hit count has added up. If Everett can get even a shred of time in the pocket, the weapons aren’t bad — Henry Ellard remains one of the smoothest route runners in the league, and Flipper Anderson can still stretch a defense.

The run game needs a jumpstart. Robert Delpino and Cleveland Gary haven’t proven to be the long-term answer.


On defense, there's potential. Kevin Greene needs a bounce back year. Once of the most deadly pass rushers in football, he only had 3 sacks in '91. This isn’t a unit that strikes fear — at least not yet.

The good news? With the realignment, the Rams now share a division with three NFC South transplants and a rebuilding Cardinals squad. The 49ers are still kings of the hill, but the rest of the race is wide open.

Chuck Knox didn’t come back for nostalgia. He came to fix this thing. The Rams may not be ready to contend yet, but they’ve got a coach who knows how to build, and a city still holding out hope that Sundays in L.A. will matter again.

Time to find out if Ground Chuck 2.0 has any bite left.


Seattle Seahawks
NFC West

Welcome to the NFC, Seattle. You brought your stadium, your weather, and your blue-collar grit… but unfortunately, you also aren't very good.

Tom Flores, the two-time Super Bowl champion in silver and black, is entering his first as head coach and president and his resume is rock solid.

Quarterback remains a question mark. Dan McGwire, the 6’8” curiosity from the 1991 first round, hasn’t shown much to inspire confidence. The job still belongs — at least for now — to Kelly Stouffer, though that may not last long. The passing game has no juice, and Brian Blades is basically a solo act at receiver. If you’re going to be this conservative offensively, you better be efficient. The Seahawks have been neither.

There is one bright spot: Chris Warren and John L. Williams, the young, powerful running back, who showed flashes late last year. If Flores is smart, he builds the game plan around Warren and prays his offensive line can open a few holes. Williams is one of the best pass catching backs in NFL history.

On defense, Seattle actually has something to build on. They finished 8th in points allowed and played with pride even when the offense gave them nothing to work with. Cortez Kennedy is the man in the middle — a wrecking ball of a defensive tackle who quietly might be one of the top two or three interior defenders in football. Add in solid vets like Eugene Robinson and Terry Wooden, and you’ve got the makings of a respectable unit.

The move to the NFC West puts Seattle in a new sandbox — gone are divisional brawls with the Raiders, Broncos, and Chiefs. Now it’s the Niners, Rams, and Cardinals, but the Seahawks still need to fix what’s broken internally before they worry about the rest.

They’ve got a defense that can hang. Now they need an offense that can get out of bed in the morning. If not? Flores might be a future Hall of Famer, but his time in Seattle could be short lived.

[CoachCot]

Steelers 1992 Preview: A New Era Dawns, But The Steel City Grit Remains

By Frank “Franco” DeAngelo — Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Sixty years of black and gold pride — that’s what Pittsburgh football is all about. But after three decades of Chuck Noll steering the ship, the Steelers found themselves at a crossroads. The ‘91 season finished at a disappointing 7-9, a far cry from the glory days that defined a city and its team. The dynasty that forged legends like Bradshaw, Swann, and the Steel Curtain had long since faded, and the late Noll years weren’t exactly lighting the way back.

Enter Bill Cowher — a Crafton kid through and through, with a past that includes a taste of Browns blood from his playing and early coaching days, sure, but don’t hold that against him. When this guy steps into the locker room, you feel it. His jaw looks like it could dent a goalpost, his eyes blaze with a hunger that echoes through every tough street corner and steel mill in this town. Cowher brings the kind of football Pittsburgh was born to love: physical, relentless, no fluff — just honest, hard-hitting, blue-collar football.

This isn’t just a coaching change. This is a cultural reset.


A New Division, The Same Tough Rivalries


Welcome to the freshly minted AFC North, where old rivalries simmer and new ones spark. The Browns and Bengals are still here, hungrier than ever, but the Oilers have moved south to the AFC South — which means Pittsburgh’s battles won’t include the Houston bruisers this year.


The Offensive Picture: Erhardt’s System and O’Donnell’s Poise


On offense, Ron Erhardt takes the reins as offensive coordinator, bringing years of experience and a steady hand. The system he runs is straightforward but effective — a grind-it-out, keep-your-head-down, take-what-you-can-get style. The offense won’t wow you with fireworks, but it’s built to sustain drives and wear defenses down.

Neil O’Donnell is the guy under center, and for good reason. The coaches chose him over Bubby Brister because O’Donnell protects the football better — plain and simple. Brister’s grit is unquestioned, but his turnover rate has been a liability. O’Donnell’s more measured approach should cut down on the giveaways, a critical factor for a team rebuilding its identity.

At running back, Barry Foster is the go-to guy — a powerful, steady presence who can both run between the tackles and catch the ball out of the backfield. Merril Hoge will move to fullback and a mix of backups, including rookie Albert Bently, add depth.

The offensive line is anchored by the best center in the game, the league just hasn't learned that yet. His name? Dermontti Dawson. The tackles, John Jackson and rookie Leon Searcy, bring a mix of experience and youth, while Duval Love and Carlton Haselrig hold down guard spots. Tunch Ilkin finishes off the line on the right. This crew will have to control the line of scrimmage if the offense is going to take any strides forward.

At receiver, Jeff Graham leads the charge after spending his rookie season in Chuck Noll's dog house, with support from Ernie Mills, Dwight Stone, and rookie Charles Davenport. Tight end Eric Green is a mismatch nightmare — as comfortable blocking a linebacker as catching a jump ball in the end zone.


Steel Curtain Reloaded: Defense Aims To Roar Again


Defense has always been the Steelers’ calling card, and 1992 won’t be any different. Dom Capers is the new defensive coordinator, a schemer who loves to confuse quarterbacks and pressure offenses with his aggressive 3-4 scheme.

Greg Lloyd is the soul of this defense, a relentless force at outside linebacker. The attitude. Tone setter. Alongside him, the linebacking corps features veterans Hardy Nickerson, David Little, Jerry Olsavsky, and the rookie Levon Kirkland, a Clemson beast with sideline-to-sideline speed. These guys are as physical and smart as they come — the kind of players you want swarming all over your backfield. There is hope the team can get more consistency out of lightning quick Jerrol Williams.

Up front, Kenny Davidson and Donald Evans at defensive end bring power, with Gerald Williams and rookie Joel Steed anchoring the nose tackle spot. These guys might not get flashy headlines, but they’re the rock the defense needs.

The secondary features Rod Woodson — one of the leagues premier CBs — Carnell Lake and Darren Perry patrolling safety, and cornerbacks D.J. Johnson and Sammy Walker holding down the edges. The rookies Alan Haller and Gary Jones add depth and youth.

Special teams? Gary Anderson is one of the league’s best kickers, and Mark Royals handles the punting duties.


Rookies And Role Players: Building For The Future


The Steelers made some savvy picks in the draft, adding depth and competition. Leon Searcy at tackle and Levon Kirkland at linebacker stand out, while Darren Perry steps in as starting free safety right off the bat. Prompting the team to feel comfortable trading Thomas Everett to Dallas amidst a contract dispute. These rookies aren’t just roster fillers — they’re expected to make plays and push the veterans.

Practice squad guys like Mark Didio and Mike Finn are hungry to prove themselves, and with Cowher’s mantra of “earn your spot,” nobody’s resting on their laurels.


The Road Ahead: Grit, Grind, And A Long-Awaited Return To Glory


Let’s be real — this team isn’t a Super Bowl favorite just yet. But they have a new identity, a new fire. The defense will keep Pittsburgh competitive, and the offense, under Erhardt and O’Donnell, will look to stay mistake-free and move the chains.

The AFC North is likely a two team dogfight in '92. No doubt, the Browns will be breathing down their necks. But if any city knows how to fight through tough times, it’s Pittsburgh. The fans demand hard work, smart football, and most of all, a team that never quits. Cowher’s Steelers promise just that.

This city remembers the glory years like they were yesterday. The dynasty forged in sweat and steel isn’t gone — it’s just getting ready for a new chapter. With grit, heart, and a coach who bleeds black and gold, the Steelers are ready to make their mark again.

Steel City — get ready. The new era is here.