RJ NFL writer Gilbert Manzano makes 2017 season predictions

Division winners

AFC East: New England Patriots

Losing Julian Edelman hurts, but the Patriots always find a replacement.

AFC North: Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers finally have a top defense to go with a loaded offense.

AFC South: Tennessee Titans

Marcus Mariota takes the next step to greatness with an improved roster.

AFC West: Oakland Raiders

Raiders do just enough on defense to complement that explosive Derek Carr-led offense.

NFC East: New York Giants

Playoff-sharp Eli Manning returns to conquer a tough division.

NFC North: Green Bay Packers

Aaron Rodgers will be Aaron Rodgers. Enough said.

NFC South: Atlanta Falcons

Super Bowl loser curse? The Falcons will be fine.

NFC West: Seattle Seahawks

Seattle defense still stacked. Russell Wilson turns in MVP-type season.

Wild-card teams

AFC: Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs

The talented Chargers defeat the injury bug. Chiefs defense carries an average K.C. offense to the postseason.

NFC: Dallas Cowboys, Carolina Panthers

A hot Dak Prescott holds down the fort until Ezekiel Elliott returns from suspension. Cam Newton returns to MVP form with the help of rookie Christian McCaffrey.

Championship games

AFC: Patriots vs. Steelers

Steelers finally get home-field advantage and get past the pesky Patriots.

NFC: Seahawks vs. Falcons

Seattle defense will look for playoff revenge with a healthy Earl Thomas, but the determined Falcons will have too many weapons to stop.

Super Bowl LII: Falcons vs. Steelers

Matty Ice and the Falcons get sweet redemption and deprive the Steelers of a seventh Lombardi trophy.