Roster depth is one of the most underrated aspects of what makes the best teams. There are tons of teams with quality starters throughout the league, but if and when a team’s superstars are injured, they must have quality depth to continue competing. Some teams — like the Carolina Panthers and Washington Redskins in 2018 — can’t overcome injuries, whereas other teams — like the New England Patriots — are renowned for their “next man up” mentality that keeps them relevant every year.
Even last year, with injuries to key players like Carson Wentz, Jason Peters, and Darren Sproles, the Philadelphia Eagles leaned on their depth at each position and won a Super Bowl; one of those depth players, Nick Foles, won the Super Bowl MVP.