NFL Draft 2012: Bold Predictions for NFL's Post-Draft Playoff Picture

Now that we can begin to look ahead to the 2012 NFL season, it's never too soon for playoff predictions.

What's interesting about pro football right now, however, is that we're seeing a shift in consistency from the AFC to the NFC.

Teams like Green Bay, San Francisco and Detroit can expect to be in the postseason every year, just like it was with the Patriots, Colts and Steelers from the AFC during the early parts of the 21st century.

So, the AFC is a little more unpredictable and will see some new faces emerge. Still, the NFC has its uncertainty as well.

That said, let's see what the playoffs bring us in the post-draft world.

Bengals Win the AFC North

Twice under Marvin Lewis have the Cincinnati Bengals won the AFC North (2005, 2009). This season, the Bengals may not be favored to win the division, but after free agency and the draft, Cincinnati has a legit shot to do so.

The secondary has great depth and talent with Dre Kirkpatrick, Nate Clements and Leon Hall, while the front seven remains sound against the run. Devon Still and Brandon Thompson are solid adds to the defensive line, because now Cincy can get interior pressure and possess the quickness to draw double-teams.

Offensively, the Bengals needed to improve the running game and pass protection. Well, Kevin Zeitler provides that reliability to extend lanes and pick up blitzes so the receivers have time to get open.

A.J. Green got a nice complement in Mohamed Sanu for Andy Dalton to target, and BenJarvus Green-Ellis will roll on the ground. Despite a tough schedule, Cincinnati fields a complete offense and defense to control the game tempo and keep opponents off-balance.

Bills Get the AFC's No. 6 Seed

Yes, the Buffalo Bills made some sick offseason moves and are legit playoff contenders for 2012. They are also, however, still a year or two away from ousting New England for the division title.

Nonetheless, expect Buffalo to make the playoffs in 2012, as its defense will lead the way. Obviously, Mario Williams and Mark Anderson will act as the sack-masters, but rookie linebackers Tank Carder and Nigel Bradham are solid against the pass and will contribute in medium/long down-and-distance situations.

Also, rookie corner Stephon Gilmore is already a complete player but will see even more production because of Buffalo's front seven. The Bills' pass defense got stronger with Gilmore and won't have to cover long, courtesy of the rush. On the flip side, the Bills simply must stay healthy.

They have a great two-back set in Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller to keep defenses honest, and rookie lineman Cordy Glenn will pave the way to some nice running lanes.

Now, Buffalo doesn't have any overly difficult schedule, but the Bills still have a lot of improving to do on both sides. They'll make the postseason, but expect more in 2013 and 2014.

Eagles Win the NFC East

The Philadelphia Eagles severely disappointed in 2011 but did close on a four-game win streak. So 2012 has high hopes, and after a strong draft, the Eagles are the NFC East favorites.

Defensively, the Eagles only needed a few additions to help DeMeco Ryans in the front seven. The pass rush will remain dominant, and Philly improves against the run with Fletcher Cox and Vinny Curry.

Both are complete defenders to contribute in the trenches, and getting corner Brandon Boykin will benefit as a nickel/dime back inside of Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.

Against strong NFC East passing offenses, the Eagles present an enhanced defensive front to isolate the middle and lock down the outside—therefore allowing Michael Vick and the offense to make even more noise.

As long as running back LeSean McCoy remains healthy, the Eagles will win this division, as he's the NFC East's most complete every-down back.

Texans Get the AFC's No. 1 Seed

Houston was a newcomer to the postseason in 2011 but will remain one of the AFC's constants for the immediate future.

Fielding a top-five defense against the run and pass last season, the Texans won't miss a beat on the dark side in 2012. For one, Houston added Whitney Mercilus, who's an intimidating pass-rusher with a knack for causing fumbles.

Elsewhere on Wade Phillips' defense, Houston must remain stellar at stuffing the run in the middle and disciplined against play-action. Offenses must remain balanced against Houston, so expect the Texans to keep the pressure coming.

Offensively, the Texans will run the ball, and the selection of Georgia center Ben Jones enhances the line to present a dynamic attack. With the playbook surrounding the production of Arian Foster, a healthy Andre Johnson and a somewhat favorable schedule leads to a No. 1 seed.

Be on the watch for their Week 14 game at New England, though, because that game will determine the AFC's top spot.

John Rozum on Twitter.