The NFL season is more than a quarter of a way done, and many players and teams have already made strong (or uninspiring) impressions. Here are a few players and teams whose stock I’m either buying or selling:
1. Buying: The Kansas City Chiefs
Though the Chiefs fell to the New England Patriots 43-40, I believe they are legit. Patrick Mahomes II has been electrifying this year, scrambling out of pass rushes and making pinpoint throws each game. Mahomes’ offense has been bolstered by tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Despite losing, the Chiefs gave the reigning AFC champs a real fight and gained an opportunity to learn from defeat. The Chiefs can be a contender this year, and I look forward to seeing them contend for years to come.
2. Selling: The Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jags were great last year. Currently, they’re mediocre. Jacksonville’s defense last year was absolutely suffocating, but this season they have regressed. Teams have had all summer to strategize against the Jags’ defense, and losing talented cornerback Aaron Colvin has stung. The Jags’ defensive slippage has exacerbated their issues offensively. Quarterback Blake Bortles had his best year last year after a rocky start to his career, but this season has been rough. Bortles has been inconsistent, and his offensive line has been riddled with injuries. The Jags could still make the playoffs; however, I’m selling on them repeating as championship contenders.
3. Buying: Drew Brees
The New Orleans Saints’ QB has been successful for years, but this season feels different. Brees has arguably been the best passer in a season filled with strong quarterback play. He has been voted the NFC Offensive Player of the Week twice in the past three weeks. The Saints lead the league in points scored per game and are third in total passing yards. This season, Brees even passed Peyton Manning as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards. Brees’ Saints are 4-1, and I believe this could be the year they make another championship run.
4. Selling: Eli Manning
The New York Giants’ longtime QB has simply looked washed this year. Despite having star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and running back Saquon Barkley, Manning has struggled to generate a consistent offense, never mind a potent one. Sadly, Manning’s career might be over soon, and with a 1-5 record, his season already seems lost.