Who will stand atop the NFC West?

(Last year: 13-3, first place)

The two-time reigning division champs are coming off an uninspiring, 13-3 loss in the Super Bowl. If the NFL hasn’t spotted enough flaws with coach Sean McVay and quarterback Jared Goff, perhaps the Rams are vulnerable because of running back Todd Gurley’s knee issue and key defensive departures.

(4-12, third place)

With a healthy Jimmy G (enter crossed fingers from Niner Faithful here) there is finally an opportunity to soar past those Seahawks. A restocked defensive cupboard that should give Robert Saleh a chance to turn that unit around, an improved receiver unit flanking the suddenly invincible George Kittle and a cast of proven running backs gives this team some well-deserved playoff hope.

(10-6, second place)

They’ve gone to the playoffs in seven of Pete Carroll’s nine seasons, and they’ve locked up quarterback Russell Wilson and linebacker Bobby Wagner to expensive extensions. The NFL’s best rushing team last year could air it out more with D.K. Metcalf drafted to complement Tyler Lockett. The pass rush and pass protection could be liabilities.

(3-13, fourth place)

Kliff Kingsbury is the Cards’ third head coach in three seasons, and he comes packing quarterback Kyler Murray, the No. 1 overall draft pick. How fast will that combination excel? Larry Fitzgerald returns for his 16th year tormenting the 49ers. New defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has a tough task, made tougher by Patrick Peterson’s six-game suspension.