AFC East Preview

The AFC East has a dynasty on the fall, a team on the rise, and a trendy sleeper pick to make the postseason. The division should come down to the final weeks and should be 1 of the leagues closer battles. Here are my thoughts:

1. New England - This could be the last year for the Patriots as we know them as Tom Brady and Randy Moss enter the final years of their contracts. With a coach like Belichick the Patriots will always be in contention. They don't seem to be the heavy favorites they have been in the past and that might just be right where they want to be. I expect the defensive draft picks to play well and this team should be right around 11 wins and atop this division.
Fantasy stud - Tom Brady, QB. Right now, people are viewing him as the #4-6 QB depending upon the rankings and that is steal in my opinion.
Fantasy sleeper - Julian Edelman, WR. Even though he is playing in the preseason, Wes Welker's status could be up in the air and Edelman could develop into a similar type player.
Fantasy Lame - Any Patriot RB. They are the ultimate committee, cannot be trusted for consistent fantasy production.

2. Miami Dolphins - The Dolphins have quietly built a solid team in Miami. The innovative Wildcat took the league by storm a few seasons ago, but now they might have a more traditional look as WR Brandon Marshall gives the Fins a legitimate target. This team struggled with closing out games last year (see Colts and Saints games) but this year I feel like they might put it together - I see 10 wins and a playoff berth for this team.
Fantasy stud - Brandon Marshall, WR. He has been able to take over a game like very few wideouts can - he is almost a lock for 100+ catches and 10 TDs.
Fantasy sleeper - Brian Hartline, WR. While Marshall will get a majority of focus from opposing defenses, Hartline could find himself with room to move.
Fantasy Lame - I don't hate Chad Henne, but I am going to make him prove his worth before I endorse him.

3. New York Jets - All the expectations are on the Jets after a surprise run to AFC title game last year and a an off season where they seemingly added every big name free agent available. I like the team but I see flaws. QB Mark Sanchez seems to be getting praise for handing the ball off. More will be expected of him this year and I don't know if I believe in him. Braylon Edwards is supposed to be a pro bowl wideout, yet he still hasn't learned to catch the ball. LaDanian Tomlinson probably isn't an upgrade over Thomas Jones at this stage of his career. The defense looks solid but they are not the top unit without Revis. Bottom line, this team is good but not great and I think 8 wins is what I am going to give them.
Fantasy stud - Shonn Greene, RB. This team will pound the football and Greene will be the lead man even with LT in the backfield.
Fantasy sleeper - Santonio Holmes, WR. He will be the clear cut #1 option for Sanchez when he returns from suspension and you can get him at a bargain considering where he is going.
Fantasy lame - Edwards, WR. The guy has had the drops every since he got into the league, but because of a uniform change things are going to change? Unlikely.

4. Buffalo Bills - Things could get ugly in Buffalo. This team might be on the clock come next January. Play making rookie CJ Spiller is the lone bright spot on the offensive side of the ball. I see 2 games this team can possibly win. Not looking good.
Fantasy stud - CJ Spiller, RB. Go draft him, hell be a home run hitter.
Fantasy lame - anybody not named Spiller.