Our second look at the NFC South Predictions, now just a few weeks before training camps open.

The biggest concern the Panthers have this off-season is their cap space. With Peppers signed to a short-term franchsie-value contract, they have no money to spend anywhere else. If they can’t sort him out to something longer term, then they are going to struggle to provide depth where it is needed. The time is running out for a deal (15th July) so watch this space.

This is without doubt a strong unit, but there are some questions that perhaps I missed before about the depth of the squad. They’re a few injuries away from getting bumped down my predictions to second.

The Bucs have released backup Brian Griese to make room for 3rd round pick Roy Miller (DT). Josh Freeman, their first round pick and presumed future QB, is still unsigned. Meaning that Brian Leftwich is the most likely starter, unless Luke McCown can show something during preseason.

The coaches will also be hoping that a happy Kellen Winslow is a productive Kellen Winslow, and there are signs that rookie WR Sammie Stroughter could play a part too… I feel better about the Bucs than I did earlier in the year: A strong performance in-division and they could move into 3rd. I’ll be watching.

The Falcons are looking to expand on their passing game this term – to progress Matt Ryan and to protect Michael Turner – and Tony Gonzales will surely look to play a part in any passing game.

As with last season there’s a fair bit of competition in the backfield, and Brent Grimes in particular, will be looking to get his CB starting place back. The Falcons’ training camp opens soon, and we’ll have to watch what comes out of there, but there’s not much right now to make me change my mind.

The Saints haven’t signed any of their draft picks yet, but typically they wrap that up quick. One pick already impressing is CB Malcolm Jenkins who will look to get some appearances sooner rather than later.

A result of the Panthers‘ lack of cap space has let the Saints pick up long snapper Jason Kyle, who could be a valuable, if under-appreciated, addition to the special teams. Gregg Williams is also mixing up the D, moving players about and generally making his presence felt. He’s been a bit hit and miss over the last few years, but there’s no doubting his credentials. I expect this unit to firm up as he gets the best out of the players he’s got.

Summary
No change… just. The Panthers have fallen a little and the Bucs risen, but not enough to make me update this table yet.
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