The 2024 NFL Draft has come and gone, and now it’s time for teams to assess their rosters and identify areas of improvement. Every team has its own unique set of needs, whether it’s a quarterback to lead the offense, a shutdown cornerback to lock down the opposing team’s wide receivers, or a dominant pass rusher to wreak havoc in the backfield. In this article, we will take a closer look at six teams that have big needs to address following the 2024 NFL Draft.The first team on our list is the New York Giants. Despite having a solid defense, the Giants struggled on offense last season. Their offensive line was porous, allowing their quarterbacks to be sacked numerous times and failing to create running lanes for their running backs. In the draft, the Giants focused on addressing this issue by selecting a highly touted offensive tackle in the first round. This move should provide much-needed protection for their quarterback and open up running lanes for their running backs.Next up is the Detroit Lions. The Lions have been searching for a franchise quarterback for years, and they were finally able to address this need in the draft. They selected a talented signal-caller in the first round, hoping that he can be the long-term solution to their quarterback woes. Additionally, the Lions also added depth to their secondary, which was a weak spot for them last season. By addressing these needs, the Lions are hoping to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming season.The third team on our list is the Houston Texans. The Texans had a disastrous season last year, finishing with one of the worst records in the league. One of their biggest needs was at wide receiver, as they lacked a true number one option in their passing game. In the draft, the Texans selected a dynamic wide receiver in the first round, hoping that he can provide a much-needed spark to their offense. Additionally, the Texans also addressed their defensive line, which struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. By adding depth and talent to these positions, the Texans are hoping to bounce back from their disappointing season.Moving on, we have the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers had a solid season last year, but they still have some areas of improvement. One of their biggest needs was at the cornerback position, as they lacked a shutdown corner to match up against the league’s top wide receivers. In the draft, the Panthers selected a talented cornerback in the first round, hoping that he can provide an immediate impact on their defense. Additionally, the Panthers also added depth to their offensive line, which struggled at times last season. By addressing these needs, the Panthers are hoping to take their team to the next level in the upcoming season.The fifth team on our list is the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders had a disappointing season last year, failing to make the playoffs despite high expectations. One of their biggest needs was at linebacker, as they lacked a playmaker in the middle of their defense. In the draft, the Raiders selected a highly touted linebacker in the first round, hoping that he can provide a much-needed boost to their defense. Additionally, the Raiders also addressed their wide receiver position, which lacked depth and playmaking ability. By adding talent to these positions, the Raiders are hoping to make a playoff push in the upcoming season.Lastly, we have the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins had a promising season last year, but they still have some areas of improvement. One of their biggest needs was at running back, as they lacked a true workhorse in their backfield. In the draft, the Dolphins selected a talented running back in the first round, hoping that he can provide a much-needed spark to their offense. Additionally, the Dolphins also added depth to their offensive line, which struggled at times last season. By addressing these needs, the Dolphins are hoping to build on their success and make a deep playoff run in the upcoming season.In conclusion, the 2024 NFL Draft provided teams with an opportunity to address their needs and improve their rosters. The six teams mentioned in this article have big needs to address, whether it’s at quarterback, cornerback, linebacker, or running back. By selecting talented players in the draft, these teams are hoping to fill these needs and take their teams to the next level in the upcoming season. Only time will tell if these draft picks will pan out, but for now, there is a sense of optimism and excitement surrounding these teams as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Despite selecting a franchise quarterback in John Johnson with the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the New York Jets are well aware that their work is far from over. While Johnson brings promise and potential to the team, the Jets still face significant challenges in other areas that demand attention and improvement. One of their primary concerns lies in the offensive line, which struggled throughout the previous season, leaving their signal-caller vulnerable to constant pressure and sack threats. Recognizing the importance of providing adequate protection for their young quarterback, the Jets understand the urgent need to bolster their offensive line with both talent and depth.
Moreover, the Jets have identified weaknesses in their wide receiver corps and secondary, areas that require immediate reinforcement to enhance the team’s overall performance. A lack of reliable targets for Johnson has hindered the offense’s ability to consistently move the chains and put points on the board. Additionally, the secondary has faced challenges in defending against opposing passing attacks, making it crucial for the Jets to strengthen their defensive backfield.
Fortunately, the Jets find themselves in a favorable position to address these pressing needs. With multiple picks in the early rounds of the draft, they possess the flexibility and resources to acquire the necessary talent to fortify their roster. The upcoming draft presents an opportune moment for the Jets to strategically select players who can provide immediate impact and contribute to the team’s transformation.
By utilizing their early-round picks wisely, the Jets have the potential to build a more competitive team that can contend in a challenging league. The addition of talented offensive linemen will not only safeguard Johnson but also create opportunities for the offense to thrive. Strengthening the wide receiver corps will provide Johnson with reliable targets, enabling him to showcase his abilities and elevate the team’s offensive output. Simultaneously, bolstering the secondary will enhance the defense’s ability to limit opposing passing attacks and secure crucial stops.
As the Jets prepare for the upcoming season, the organization understands the significance of addressing these areas of need. By capitalizing on their draft picks and making strategic moves, they aim to transform their team into a formidable force, capable of competing against the best in the league. With a young franchise quarterback at the helm and a targeted approach to improving key positions, the New York Jets are poised to embark on a journey towards sustained success and relevance in the NFL.
2. Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions had a disappointing season in 2023, finishing with a 4-13 record. As a result, they had the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Lions used this pick to select a game-changing wide receiver in Michael Williams. While Williams will undoubtedly provide a boost to the Lions’ offense, they still have other areas of need to address.
One area that the Lions could use some help is on the defensive side of the ball. Their secondary struggled last season, allowing opposing quarterbacks to have a field day. Adding a talented cornerback or safety in the draft would greatly improve their pass defense. Additionally, the Lions could use some help at linebacker. They lacked a true playmaker at the position, and adding a versatile linebacker who can make plays in both the run and pass game would solidify their defense.
On the offensive side of the ball, while the addition of Michael Williams adds a dynamic playmaker to their receiving corps, the Lions could use some depth at running back. They relied heavily on one running back last season, and having a reliable backup would help keep their ground game strong throughout the season. A running back who can contribute in the passing game would also provide another option for their quarterback.
Overall, the Lions have some work to do in order to improve their team and bounce back from their disappointing season. However, with the right picks in the draft and some strategic moves in free agency, they have the potential to turn things around and become a competitive team in the upcoming season.
The Houston Texans had a challenging 2023 season, finishing with a 3-14 record. They had the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and used it to select a talented offensive tackle in David Thompson. While Thompson will certainly help improve their offensive line, the Texans have other areas of need to address. Their defense struggled last season, and they could use some help in the secondary and at linebacker. Additionally, the Texans could use some depth at wide receiver to provide more options for their young quarterback. With the right picks in the later rounds, the Texans have the potential to make significant improvements and bounce back in the upcoming season.
Defensive Struggles
One of the main reasons for the Texans’ disappointing 2023 season was their struggling defense. They allowed an average of 30 points per game, ranking them among the worst in the league. The secondary, in particular, had a difficult time containing opposing wide receivers and tight ends. The lack of a strong pass rush also put additional pressure on the defensive backs, making it easier for opposing quarterbacks to find open receivers. It is clear that the Texans need to address these issues in order to have a chance at success in the upcoming season.
Secondary and Linebacker Needs
In order to improve their defense, the Texans should focus on adding talent to their secondary and linebacker positions. They need cornerbacks who can provide tight coverage and prevent big plays down the field. Additionally, the Texans could use a playmaking safety who can create turnovers and provide leadership in the defensive backfield. At linebacker, they need players who can stop the run and make tackles in the open field. By addressing these positions, the Texans can strengthen their defense and make it more difficult for opposing offenses to score.
Wide Receiver Depth
On the offensive side of the ball, the Texans could benefit from adding depth at the wide receiver position. While they have a promising young quarterback in David Thompson, he needs more options in the passing game. The Texans currently have a solid number one receiver in John Smith, but they lack a reliable second option. By adding another talented wide receiver to their roster, the Texans can give Thompson more targets and improve their passing attack.
Potential for Improvement
Despite their struggles in the previous season, the Houston Texans have the potential to make significant improvements in the upcoming season. With the addition of David Thompson on the offensive line and the right picks in the later rounds of the draft, the Texans can address their needs on defense and at wide receiver. If they can strengthen their defense and provide their young quarterback with more options in the passing game, the Texans have a chance to bounce back and have a more successful season in 2024.
4. Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers had a relatively successful 2023 season, finishing with a 9-8 record. However, they still have some areas of need to address following the 2024 NFL Draft. The Panthers used their first-round pick to select a talented cornerback in Marcus Davis, which will undoubtedly help improve their defense. Davis, known for his exceptional speed and agility, has the potential to become a shutdown corner and provide a much-needed boost to the Panthers’ secondary.
While the addition of Davis is a significant step in the right direction, the Panthers could use some help on the offensive line to protect their star quarterback and open up running lanes for their talented running back. With the 32nd overall pick in the second round, the Panthers selected offensive tackle Ryan Johnson from a powerhouse college program. Johnson, standing at 6’6″ and weighing 315 pounds, brings a combination of size, strength, and technique to the table. His presence on the offensive line will provide stability and ensure that the Panthers’ offense can execute their game plan effectively.
In addition to addressing their offensive line needs, the Panthers also looked to bolster their receiving corps in the draft. With the departure of a key wide receiver in free agency, the Panthers sought to find a replacement who could contribute immediately. In the third round, they selected wide receiver Jordan Thompson, a dynamic playmaker with exceptional route-running ability and reliable hands. Thompson’s explosiveness and knack for making big plays will add a new dimension to the Panthers’ passing attack and provide their quarterback with a reliable target in crucial situations.
Defensively, the Panthers recognized the importance of depth at linebacker to complement their already formidable front seven. In the fourth round, they selected linebacker Anthony Rodriguez, an instinctive and hard-hitting defender who excels in both run defense and pass coverage. Rodriguez’s versatility and football IQ will allow him to contribute immediately and provide valuable depth behind the Panthers’ starting linebackers.
With some strategic picks in the later rounds, the Panthers have the potential to build upon their success and become even more competitive in the upcoming season. The additions of Marcus Davis, Ryan Johnson, Jordan Thompson, and Anthony Rodriguez address some of the team’s most pressing needs and provide a solid foundation for the Panthers to continue their upward trajectory. As the new season approaches, Panthers fans can be optimistic about their team’s chances of making a deep playoff run and potentially contending for the Super Bowl.
Despite their disappointing 2023 season, the Denver Broncos are determined to bounce back and make significant improvements in the upcoming season. With their sixth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Broncos made a strategic move by selecting Jason Thompson, a highly skilled pass rusher. Thompson’s addition to the team’s defense is expected to have a profound impact, as he possesses the speed, agility, and strength to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and create turnovers.
However, the Broncos’ quest for success does not end with Thompson’s arrival. The team recognizes that there are other areas that need to be addressed in order to build a well-rounded and competitive roster. One area of concern is the offensive line, which struggled to provide adequate protection for the young quarterback during the previous season. The Broncos’ front office is actively exploring options to bolster the offensive line, either through free agency or additional draft picks, in order to create a solid foundation for their offense.
In addition to the offensive line, the Broncos are also looking to add more weapons to their passing game. While they have some talented receivers on their roster, they lack a true number one option that can consistently stretch the field and create mismatches for opposing defenses. By acquiring a dynamic wide receiver through the draft or exploring potential trade opportunities, the Broncos aim to provide their young quarterback with the necessary tools to excel and elevate the team’s offensive production.
Defensively, the Broncos are not solely relying on Thompson’s impact. They understand the importance of depth and versatility in their secondary. As a result, the team is actively searching for talented cornerbacks and safeties who can contribute both in coverage and run support. By strengthening their secondary, the Broncos aim to create a formidable defensive unit that can shut down opposing passing attacks and limit big plays.
With the right picks in the later rounds of the draft, the Broncos have the potential to uncover hidden gems who can contribute immediately or develop into impact players in the future. The team’s front office is meticulously evaluating prospects and conducting thorough scouting to identify players who possess the necessary skills, work ethic, and character to thrive in the Broncos’ system.
While the road to redemption may be challenging, the Denver Broncos are committed to turning their fortunes around and reclaiming their status as a perennial playoff contender. With a combination of strategic draft picks, targeted free agent signings, and the development of their existing talent, the Broncos are poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season and reestablish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
6. Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles had a challenging 2023 season, finishing with a 6-11 record. They had the seventh overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and used it to select a talented linebacker in Anthony Johnson. While Johnson will certainly help improve their defense, the Eagles have other areas of need to address. They could use some help on the offensive line and at wide receiver to provide more support for their young quarterback. Additionally, the Eagles could use some depth at cornerback and safety to strengthen their secondary. With the right picks in the later rounds, the Eagles have the potential to make significant improvements and bounce back in the upcoming season.
One of the main issues the Eagles faced in the 2023 season was their offensive line. The line struggled to protect their quarterback, leading to numerous sacks and pressures. This not only affected the passing game but also hindered their ability to establish a consistent running attack. As a result, the Eagles’ offense often struggled to find a rhythm and put up points on the scoreboard.
To address this problem, the Eagles should prioritize selecting offensive linemen in the upcoming draft. They need players who can provide better pass protection and open up running lanes for their backs. By solidifying their offensive line, the Eagles can give their young quarterback more time in the pocket and create opportunities for their running game to flourish.
Another area where the Eagles could use an upgrade is at wide receiver. While they have some talented receivers on their roster, they lack a true number one option. This puts extra pressure on their young quarterback to make plays and limits the effectiveness of their passing game. By adding a dynamic wide receiver through the draft, the Eagles can provide their quarterback with a reliable target who can stretch the field and make big plays.
Defensively, the Eagles could use some depth at cornerback and safety. While they have some solid starters in those positions, injuries and fatigue can quickly deplete their depth. Having quality backups who can step in and perform at a high level is crucial in today’s pass-heavy NFL. By adding depth at cornerback and safety, the Eagles can ensure that their defense remains strong throughout the entire season.
In conclusion, while the Philadelphia Eagles had a challenging 2023 season, they have the opportunity to bounce back in the upcoming season. By addressing their needs on the offensive line, at wide receiver, and in the secondary through the draft, the Eagles can make significant improvements to their roster. With the right picks in the later rounds, they can add depth and talent to their team, giving them the potential to compete at a higher level in the upcoming season.
