If there’s one signature characteristic of the NFC South, it’s that you never know who’s going to win it.

Since the division came into being as a result of realignment in 2002, each of its four teams has finished first at least once, and four of the division champions finished last the previous season.
The Panthers took the title last season on the strength of a dominant running game led by DeAngelo Williams, who had a breakout season. But going forward, the trendy pick is the Falcons, who acquired future Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez to give second-year quarterback Matt Ryan another weapon.
The Saints had the NFL’s top offense last season and should be just as potent this time, especially if RB Pierre Thomas and WR Marques Colston stay healthy.
The Bucs likely have taken a step back. Whoever emerges this season, they’ll have done so despite a much tougher schedule — South teams play AFC East teams this year, as opposed to the dreadful AFC West in 2008.
Next-level players
Pierre Thomas, RB, Saints: He rolled up a combined 909 yards rushing/receiving and 12 TDs last season despite starting only five games. He’s dealing with a sprained knee, but he’ll be the starter and should have plenty of room to operate in New Orleans’ attack when healthy.
Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers: This is a risky pick because Stewart missed most of training camp and the preseason with an undisclosed Achilles’ tendon injury. Assuming it’s not serious, and that DeAngelo Williams doesn’t score 20 times again, he could be a TD eater.
Curtis Lofton, LB, Falcons: The former Oklahoma stalwart started 15 games last season and had 94 tackles, second-best among rookies. Now he’s expected to fill the vacancy left inside by the departure of Keith Brooking and will have every opportunity to pile up tackles.
Kellen Winslow, TE, Bucs: The former No. 1 pick by the Browns will get a fresh start in Tampa, and he should be a big upgrade over Jerramy Stevens. He has serious talent and flashed star potential in 2007, so new quarterback Byron Leftwich would be wise to look this veteran’s way.
Elite game
Falcons at Patriots, Sept. 27: Atlanta has a Nov. 15 date with division rival Carolina, but this game in Week 3 will be an indicator of whether the Falcons are for real after last season’s turnaround.
Elite player
Drew Brees, QB, Saints: In 2008 the native Texan became only the second player to pass for 5,000 yards in a season. It’s a high number for sure, but with New Orleans’ wide-open offense, Brees could approach it again.