5 NFL predictions for 2020
Happy New Year. 2019 was an unpredictable one in the NFL and 2020 should be no different. Nonetheless, theScore's football editors take a shot at five predictions for the next year in pro football.
The Bengals make the playoffs
Going from worst in the league to a playoff team in one season won't be easy, but that's just how good Joe Burrow will be for the Bengals. The LSU quarterback, fresh off a stunning showing in the Peach Bowl, is a sure bet to be the No. 1 pick in the draft and return home to Ohio. He will immediately team with running back Joe Mixon for a high-powered combo in the backfield and significantly boost the passing attack. The solid receiver trio of Tyler Boyd, Auden Tate, and John Ross offers plenty of promise, with the possibility of a healthy A.J. Green in the mix should the free agent be franchise tagged or sign a long-term deal. A potent offense with a manageable schedule in a weakening division should have the Bengals playing the first week of the postseason next year. - Dane Belbeck
Jets trade Le'Veon Bell
Bell's first year in New York didn't go as planned. The former All-Pro was never on the same page as head coach Adam Gase, and at some point, the team will have doubts about paying $13.5 million to a 28-year-old running back in 2020. General manager Joe Douglas likely won't think twice about accepting a mid-round package for Bell next season. - Caio Miari
Cowboys hire Urban Meyer
After a decade of disappointing returns from Jason Garrett, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones makes a splash with his next coaching hire. Enter Urban Meyer, the biggest name available in either the pro or college ranks. Meyer stepped down from his job with Ohio State for health reasons but never completely shut the door on a return to the sidelines. He finally makes the jump to the pros after a sterling college career in which he amassed an .854 winning percentage as a head coach. - Michael McClymont
Andrew Luck returns after 1-year retirement
Luck shocked the sporting world in September when he retired right in the middle of his prime and with Indianapolis set to contend for a Super Bowl. This offseason, the 30-year-old makes an equally stunning decision to return to football. The Colts, who floundered with the underwhelming Jacoby Brissett under center, will welcome back their franchise quarterback with open arms. - Jack Browne
Tom Brady leaves the Patriots
Joe Montana fled the 49ers, Peyton Manning departed the Colts, and Tom Brady will be the next legendary quarterback to finish his career outside of where he started it. The three-time MVP is set to hit free agency for the first time in his 20-year career, and once he does, there will be no looking back. We're on the cusp of learning whether Brady or Bill Belichick was more important to the Patriots' dynasty all these years. - Alex Chippin