Top 5 NFL Suprises of 2009

Today I will present my five biggest surprises of the '09 season. These are teams that weren't expected much of going into the year but somehow managed to have a successful season. Enjoy!

This is part two of a four part series. Monday I will give you my top five collapses of the year.

(Sorry about it being late.)

5. Denver Broncos

Most people thought this would be a rebuilding year for the Broncos. With a new head coach, their franchise quarterback gone, and their best offensive threat in legal troubles, not a lot of people had them going to the playoffs.

However, they need only a win over lowly Kansas City plus a loss by either Baltimore or New York to do just that.

4. Arizona Cardinals

Wait, the Cardinals? They went to the Super Bowl last year! Well that's exactly why they're on here. Teams that go to the Super Bowl but fail to win have been historically unsuccessful in recent years in what has been dubbed the "Super Bowl curse."

However, following a rough start they look to break that curse as they are even better than last year.

3. New York Jets

Like the Broncos, the Jets were considered to be in rebuilding mode. With a rookie taking snaps, a new head coach, and no formidable threats at wideout, very few believed the Jets were capable of doing much this season.

However, now they are in playoff position after stunning the Colts.

2. New Orleans Saints

The Aints! Last season was very disappointing for the black and gold faithful and, given the toughness of their division, not much was expected out of them this year. At least not homefield advantage throughout the playoffs and having one of the most exciting QB's in the league.

1. Cincinnati Bengals

Could it really be anyone else? The once miserable franchise turns back the clock to it's glory days, clinching a division that held both teams in last years AFC Championship Game.

Even the tragic death of one of their players couldn't stop this team from making the playoffs, and it likely won't stop them from winning in it either. Quite a turn of events from being one of the worst teams in the league last year.