As NFL teams prepare to open training camps around the league, fans are filled with a sense of hope. Every team is undefeated, and every fanbase can feel as it has a realistic chance to contend. This sense of optimism is bolstered by the reality that teams regularly go from being basement-dwellers to postseason threats in the course of a single season.
A year ago, the Washington Football Team was coming off of a 3-13 campaign. It went on to win the NFC East at 7-9. The Miami Dolphins were coming off of a 5-11 season.