I'm actually kind of with you on the OOS recruiting red flags, but Bo and Flood are much more trustworthy than Giles and Hand. And guys like Baker and McKinley would completely make the point moot. Plus, Herman just straight up never had access to guys like Simmons. Let's revisit this in January.
But that's kind of where the real similarities end. 2019 was coming off better results, but we return a lot more experience, production, and proven talent than that team. In 2019 we replaced a bunch of starters: 2 OL, 2 WRs, 2 LBs, 3 DL, and 2 DBs. This year we replace our RB, a LB, 3DL, and 2 DBs. So, 1) we're replacing less and 2) we generally have more experience stepping into those spots (RB, LB, and WDE being the exceptions). We're not looking to improve through addition by subtraction (e.g., not having to pay the Kris Boyd tax because Jamison will be so awesome now that he's moving back to corner).
I get you have a rep for taking the negative side, but there's a lot less projection this year compared to 2019. That said, the expectations are much higher. It's very possible we can be a better team by not imploding to go 7-5, but still disappoint this year.