Every season the NFC East seems to be among the best in the NFL, and with teams like Dallas, Philadelphia, Washington, and the NY Giants it is easy to see why. The balance of power shifted somewhat last season with the Eagles being upset by the Arizona Cardinals, and the rest of the NFC East leaving the dance early or not even being invited. This season the NFC East should be strong again, but will they have the horses to hang with the up and coming teams in the North, South and the West? Lets look at each team and what they are looking like in 09.

Philadelphia Eagles -This is a team that is built to win football games, and barring injuries to major players they have to be the favorites to win the NFC East. McNabb is playing like he is 26 again, and the ever present threat of Westbrook in the backfield means an explosive offense. The loss of Brian Dawkins has to be considered a blow to the Eagles, but they have enough defensive presence to pull it off.

Dallas Cowboys -The Cowboys are in a very weird place going into the 2009 NFL season. They have no marquee wide receivers, though Roy Williams should be. Still, they are considered to be a serious playoff threat. A large part of that threat has to do with the incredible talent they have at the running back position. Felix Jones, Marion Barber and Tashard Choice will all get their hands on the rock this season. All are capable runners that are quite possibly among the best in the NFC given the chance. Romo must prove he can win late in the season. This year is a key year for the Dallas Cowboys, and they will be doing it without Terrell Owens.

New York Giants - The New York Giants are another team that is remarkably similar to the Cowboys. They have lost their premiere receiver in Plaxico “Shoot my career in the leg” Burress. They are strong on the defensive side of the ball and they have a good running game. The Giants could surprise especially if they can find a go-to receiver. Manning will be a steady hand this season as he now has the confidence of a proven leader.

Washington Redskins - Somehow the Redskins always seem to get listed last in the NFC East, and yet they find a way to climb the ladder. They are still trying to figure out who they are as a defense, and that is the primary reason for their problems going into 09. They will be solid, but can they score enough points with Jason Campbell under center again? I don’t think so, but we will have to wait and see. Portis is not getting any younger at running back, and he has to slow down eventually. Or does he?

The NFC East will be strong as a whole, and will almost certainly field four teams that are playoff contenders. Who will be around during the playoffs? I expect that the Philadelphia Eagles will win the NFC East, and the Cowboys will be close behind. I do expect them to lose the wildcard position, due to the East beating up on each other all season long.