Football Whisperer's NFC South Preview

Carolina

The Talk: Is he or isn’t he the guy?

The Whisper: In 2024, Bryce Young was benched in favor of journeyman Andy Dalton. This experience lit a fire under the former first overall pick, propelling him to a breakout season in 2025, helping Carolina landing a playoff spot. But, while Young was impressive, the memory from his 2024 benching still hang heavy in Charlotte. With the 2027 draft class bursting with talented signal-callers, and a team that teeters between playoffs and top ten draft status, this year promises to be pivotal for the Panthers, and Young.

Last Word: Trust issues, thy name is Carolina.

Atlanta

The Talk: Does any team look better getting off the bus?

The Whisper: One of the most unforgettable scenes in the landmark HBO series, “Game of Thrones” was Cersei Lannister’s infamous “Walk of Shame” following her sin confession. At each step along the way a bell was rung with the word, “shame” being spoken as the angry crowd approvingly watched. Every time I see the Atlanta Falcons, the most talented team in the league, walk off the field following a lackluster performance that resulted in a loss … this scene comes to mind. All the talent, and the best uniform in the league … what a waste… what a shame.

Last Word: There’s a good football team somewhere in that locker room.

New Orleans

The Talk: Can you hear the band warming up?

The Whisper: No one saw the Patriots coming last year, but they came and went all the way to the Super Bowl. There are some stark similarities between that Patriots team and the way this Saints team is constructed. Both are shaped by young talent with just the right amount of veteran leadership sprinkled in. No Saints in Super Bowl predictions here but in a division separated by razor thin margins picking a winner is tough. But one thing is for sure… the Saints are coming.

Last Word: The march back has begun.

Tampa Bay

The Talk: Will Baker be enough?

The Whisper: No one wears a chip on their shoulder better than Buc QB Baker Mayfield. Over the course of his circuitous career, he did his fair share of drifting, and his uniform has changed several times, but the chip has remained. With Mike Evans now playing out west, the keys to the Tampa locker room rest solely in the palm of Mayfield. How well he balances that chip will determine how many doors he opens.

Last Word: The Drifter has found a home. Now, he’s looking for a championship.