NFL Team Needs: Prioritizing Every Roster's Biggest Weaknesses After Week 16
Christmas weekend of the 2023 NFL season brought presents, surprises and disappointments galore. Week 16 ended the outside playoff hopes for several squads while contenders such as the San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs and the Dallas Cowboys all tasted defeat in crucial matchups.
Every week of the season, we'll assess the state of each roster with a particular focus on its weaknesses. By the end of the campaign, we'll have built a big board for every team based on its biggest needs and wants. Everything from immediate holes to fill to the offseason player carousel of free agency and the 2024 NFL draft is taken into account.
The weaknesses here are not just knee-jerk reactions to the weekend's games, but more an overarching assessment with both present and future roster-building in mind.
All AFC teams are scouted by Alex Ballentine, and all NFC teams are scouted by Matt Holder.
Further analysis of every NFL roster will publish every Monday throughout the regular season.
Arizona Cardinals
1 of 32
In a way, the Arizona Cardinals managed to win the tank bowl in Chicago this weekend. While the scoreboard might suggest otherwise, Arizona's loss gives them the No. 2 overall pick heading into the final two weeks of the season, which is a good spot to be in for a rebuilding team.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Defensive Tackle
- Cornerback
- Center
- Wide Receiver
- Offensive Tackle
Add Now: CB Ugo Amadi
As it's been mentioned for several weeks now, the Cardinals are playing for the future and the only players they should be adding now are young ones who could stick around for next season and beyond. Amadi fits that description as he's been a solid slot corner in the past and doesn't turn 27 years old until May.
2024 Free Agency: iOL Connor Williams, Miami Dolphins
Arizona's interior offensive line has struggled outside of Will Hernandez this season. The Cardinals also have several impending free agents upfront, making guard and center significant needs this spring.
Williams will be one of the top interior offensive linemen available on the open market, partly because he has experience playing both guard spots and center. On top of that, he was playing very well in Miami this season with a near-elite grade from Pro Football Focus before tearing his ACL.
So, the medicals will need to check out but if they do, signing the 27-year-old would be a great move for the Cardinals as they'd address a need with a player who is still young.
2024 NFL Draft: DL Brandon Dorlus, Oregon
The defensive line will be another priority position group for Monti Ossenfort this spring. The team hasn't been able to replace what J.J. Watt and Zach Allen brought to the table, but Dorlus could be a good middle-round target who fills that role.
Dorlus is a versatile defensive lineman who lined up at several different spots at Oregon. A big reason for that is he has a good blend of strength and athleticism that gives him several traits that will transfer over to the NFL and give him a high ceiling.
As a pass-rusher, the Oregon product has active hands and a few moves he can win with, most notably an arm-over or swim move. He also has decent agility to be an effective looper in line games and has flashed the ability to get pressure with power using a push-pull move or a bull rush.
Dorlus' strength does show up against the run as he's able to get extension on blocks and can set the edge against offensive tackles. However, his instincts are a work in progress as his block recognition and gap control can be an issue. He's also not great at shedding or getting off blocks either.
(Previous Week's selections: S Verone McKinley, CB Ahkello Witherspoon, WR Keon Coleman)
Atlanta Falcons
2 of 32
The Atlanta Falcons needed a major bounce-back performance this weekend and managed to get the job done with a big win against Indianapolis. Atlanta still has a chance at earning a postseason berth, but it'll need some help, as it sits one game back in the NFC South and wild-card races heading into the final weeks of the season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Quarterback
- Edge
- Strong Safety
- Wide Receiver
- Left Guard
Add Now: No one
The Falcons are in a weird spot where they're still in the running for the NFC South title, but their record suggests planning for the future is best for the rest of this season. Making their situation even more complicated is that quarterback is their biggest need right now and they aren't going to find someone to solve that issue at this stage in the game.
The Falcons should ride with the guys they've got and see what happens.
2024 Free Agency: WR Curtis Samuel, Washington Commanders
Wide receiver is a current weakness for the Dirty Birds and that's only going to get worse in the offseason when four of their current wideouts' contracts expire. They could use someone on the inside to pair with Kyle Pitts and Drake London, and some speed from said player would be a nice bonus.
Samuel has primarily operated out of the slot for the majority of his career and has been productive with at least 494 yards and three touchdowns in each season that he's played in at least 10 games. While he's received more short targets in Washington, the eight-year pro was used as more of a deep threat in Carolina and has 4.3 speed.
2024 NFL Draft: QB Jayden Daniels, LSU
Desmond Ridder is back on the bench and Taylor Heinckie has proven a few times now that he's not capable of being a full-time starter. So, quarterback will be one of the Falcons' biggest targets in the draft and Daniels might be their best option given where they'll be picking.
"As a passer, Daniels handles himself like an experienced vet," B/R NFL draft scout Derrik Klassen said via the LSU product's scouting report. "He plays with a calm demeanor in the pocket, which you can see both in his quiet footwork and in his fearlessness under pressure. Daniels is also a stable processor.
"He might throw himself into coverage versus rotated coverages at times, but he generally plays with good discipline and timing, and he gets the ball to the right man.
"Daniels' arm talent and accuracy is a mixed bag. On one hand, he's a phenomenal deep thrower in rhythm. He regularly drops it in the bucket without needing his receivers to break stride. However, Daniels' arm strength and accuracy are less dangerous to other parts of the field.
"He doesn't always have the velocity to fit tight windows, and his accuracy in the 1-20 yard range comes and goes. Daniels' accuracy especially falls off when he's forced to throw out of rhythm or late in the down."
(Previous Week's Selections: DL Matt Ioannidis, EDGE Josh Allen, WR Brian Thomas Jr.)
Baltimore Ravens
3 of 32
The Ravens got a signature win, while Lamar Jackson made a pretty convincing case for MVP on Monday night. Baltimore won one of the most anticipated matchups of the year, snapping a six-game winning streak for the Niners and giving them their only home loss.
Baltimore took a big step in ensuring it won't get another big road win in the postseason until the Super Bowl. They are in control of their own destiny when it comes to clinching the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Offensive Guard
- Wide Receiver
- Interior Defender
- Offensive Tackle
Add Now: RB Tyrion Davis-Price, San Francisco 49ers
The season-ending injury to Keaton Mitchell last week was a disappointing development for the Ravens offense. They brought up Melvin Gordon III from the practice squad, but the veteran doesn't have nearly the same juice as Mitchell. Finding a younger back on another practice squad could be the move.
Tyrion Davis-Price ran a 4.48 40-yard dash at 211 pounds in the combine. He has only played seven games since being drafted in the third round by the Niners, but he would be worth a shot on the active roster if the Ravens want to add a back before the postseason.
2024 Free Agency: OT Jonah Williams, Cincinnati Bengals
This could be a real circle-of-life signing for the Ravens. Orlando Brown Jr. was unhappy in Baltimore because he wanted to make the switch from right tackle to left tackle. Ronnie Stanley's presence on the left in Baltimore forced him over to the right side. He was traded to the Chiefs where he protected Patrick Mahomes' blind side until the Bengals signed him, forcing Jonah Williams over to the right side. The move initially made Williams want a trade out of Cincinnati.
Now, the Ravens could sign Williams to play right tackle with the idea that Williams could slide over when Stanley is done playing. The Ravens have resorted to rotating their tackles to keep Stanley and Morgan Moses fresh. Williams, 26, would give them more youth on the offensive line.
2024 NFL Draft: DT Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson
Retaining Justin Madubuike should be a top priority this offseason, but even if they do, the Ravens will still need to invest in the defensive front. Brent Urban and Michael Pierce are both set to be free agents and they don't have much depth to begin with.
Ruke Orhorhoro has the prototypical size to be a 5-technique in their 3-4 base while kicking inside to a 3-technique in even fronts. After watching Madubuike blossom, he could become the next developmental interior rusher.
(Previous Week's Selections: WR Tre'Quan Smith, OL Jermaine Eluemunor, CB Terrion Arnold)
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Buffalo Bills
4 of 32
The Bills encapsulated their whole season in a 24-22 win over the Chargers. It was a game they should have won comfortably, but an interception from Josh Allen along with two fumbles from James Cook left things in doubt. That is, until Allen pulled out a game-winning drive in the final minute of the game. The win keeps the Bills in playoff contention. Once in the postseason, it wouldn't be shocking if they made a run to the AFC Championship Game or lost in the Wild Card Round.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Edge Defender
- Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
- Safety
- Interior Defender
Add Now: No One
The Bills are playing well right now, and they are starting to get healthier. Kaiir Elam did not make his return against the Chargers, but he's been designated for return, as has defensive tackle DaQuan Jones. Buffalo needs the roster spots to bring back the players who are due to return just in time for the playoffs.
2024 Free Agency: DL Solomon Thomas, New York Jets
The Bills defensive line is bound to look different in 2024. DaQuan Jones, Tim Settle, Jordan Phillips and Poona Ford are all on expiring contracts, and the Bills could stand to get younger at the position. Jones and Phillips are both over 30, while Solomon Thomas is 28. The defensive lineman has the flexibility to line up on the inside or outside and has been productive as a pass-rusher this season for the Jets.
2024 NFL Draft: S Tyler Nubin, Minnesota
The safety duo of Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer have been a staple of the Bills defense for a while. But that era is coming to an end sooner than later. Hyde is a free agent this offseason, and Poyer will be a free agent next season. The Bills need to look to the draft to find at least one player who can be trained up to replace them.
Tyler Nubin is one of the most talented safeties in the draft. He has experience playing both in the box and as a deep safety. He has the athleticism to play centerfielder with the physicality to be a factor in the run game.
(Previous Week's Selections: WR Bo Melton, WR Curtis Samuel, iOL Jackson Powers-Johnson)
Carolina Panthers
5 of 32
While they won't admit it, the Carolina Panthers are playing for moral victories at this stage in the season. So Bryce Young recording his first 300-yard game is a step in the right direction and a good way to build momentum heading into next year.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Guard
- Wide Receiver
- Tight End
- Quarterback
- Offensive Tackle
Add Now: CB Thomas Graham Jr.
As it's been said for weeks now, the Panthers should only be looking to add players who can potentially help them in the future. They have several cornerbacks whose contracts are about to expire, and Graham doesn't turn 25 years old until June. So the front office can stash him for now and sign him to a reserve/future contract in the offseason.
2024 Free Agency: CB Amik Robertson, Las Vegas Raiders
As mentioned above, Carolina is scheduled to lose some depth at cornerback in the offseason. Also, Jeremy Chinn is an impending free agent, and Chinn has taken a lot of snaps as a slot corner throughout his career. So the defense could afford to add some help on the back end this spring.
Robertson has primarily been a backup in Las Vegas, but he has made a few spot starts over the last couple of years and has been a solid player in that role. The four-year veteran also has experience playing inside and out on the boundary, making him a good fit in free agency for the Panthers.
2024 NFL Draft: OL Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State
Carolina has had issues at offensive line all year, especially on the interior. The position group is widely expected to be one of the Panthers' top priorities in the NFL draft, but that will be tricky to address without a first-round pick. Fuaga could be within their range as he ranks 28th on B/R's big board, and he'd be a good fit with his versatility to play guard or tackle.
"Fuaga has a large frame with good arm length and well-dispersed thickness throughout his frame," B/R offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said via the Beaver's scouting report. "He has solid athletic ability with good initial quickness out of his stance and very good power.
"... Fuaga does drift and overset against wide rush alignments and rushers who know how to weaponize stutters and hesitations, leaving him vulnerable to losing across his face. He also has a bad habit of striking down the middle of high-side rushers, creating a short corner that the cross-chop technique can exploit.
"Overall, Fuaga has the size, power and run-blocking skills to earn a starting role in his first training camp at guard inside a run-first, play-action-based system. He also has enough quickness to play tackle in a pinch."
(Previous Week's Selections: EDGE Oshane Ximines, WR Gabe Davis, S Javon Bullard)
Chicago Bears
6 of 32
The Chicago Bears have won four out of their past six games to improve to 6-9, but they are still two games out from a wild-card spot with two weeks to play. Luckily, they still have Carolina's pick, but Chicago has gone from holding two top-five selections to potentially sliding out of the top 10 with its own pick.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Wide Receiver
- Guard
- Quarterback
- Center
- Safety
Add Now: WR Amari Rodgers
Wide receiver is projected to be one of the Bears' biggest offseason needs and they could use someone in the slot since Darnell Mooney's contract is about to expire. It'd be worth it to bring in Rodgers for a few weeks and see if he's worth a reserve/future contract, especially since he doesn't turn 25 until September.
2024 Free Agency: S Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts
Eddie Jackson hasn't been particularly good in Chicago this season and is only signed through 2024, so the front office might want to explore the free-agent market this offseason.
While Blackmon has played a little more strong than free safety this year, he can still line up at both spots. Also, he's having an impressive year in coverage with a good grade from Pro Football Focus in that department and a 53.3 passer rating when targeted heading into this weekend.
Plus, the Utah product will only be 26 years old next season and was a college teammate with impending free agent Jaylon Johnson, so signing Blackmon could entice the latter to stay in town.
2024 NFL Draft: OL Jordan Morgan, Arizona
Offensive line will be another need for the Bears this offseason and Morgan could be a good NFL draft target since he has some versatility to play either tackle or guard and currently holds a second-round grade on B/R's big board.
"Morgan times the snap well in the run game with good initial quickness out of his stance to get into his fits and hit his landmarks on time on zone cut-offs, scoops and combo blocks, with the burst to be a plus move-blocker on screens, climbs and pulls," B/R offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said via the Wildcat's scouting report.
"He has very good play strength with heavy hands to jolt defenders on contact, cave them in and create lateral displacement on angle-drive blocks (kick-outs, down blocks).
"In pass protection, Morgan's size and strength are an asset on play-action, flat and jump sets when he can get his hands on rushers early, tying them up and ending reps quickly.
"He can function on an island when he is on time with his set points and his strike timing lands just right, but the variance goes way up against wide rush alignments and high-side rushes. His mediocre range leads to him opening his hips early, creating a soft inside shoulder and clean losses across his face."
(Previous Week's Selections: EDGE Derrek Tuszka, CB Amik Robertson, QB Caleb Williams)
Cincinnati Bengals
7 of 32
The bottom finally fell out for the Bengals offense with Jake Browning at the helm. Tee Higgins tried his best to keep the offense going with five catches for 140 yards and a touchdown, but it wasn't enough to stay competitive in a 34-11 loss. Browning threw three picks, taking the Bengals to 0-5 in the division and significantly shrinking their playoff hopes.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Interior Defender
- Tight End
- Wide Receiver
- Interior Offensive Line
- Offensive Tackle
Add Now: WR Laquon Treadwell, Baltimore Ravens
The Bengals didn't get a whole lot out of their receivers outside of Tee Higgins. There's no more room for error if the Bengals want to remain in the playoff race over the next two weeks. If Cincinnati doesn't think their auxiliary receivers can step up, then a veteran like Laquon Treadwell from the Ravens practice squad could be an option.
2024 Free Agency: DT Teair Tart, Houston Texans
If the Bengals had their way, Teair Tart would be on their roster right now. Cincinnati tried to claim Tart off of waivers when the Titans released him last week, according to ESPN's Field Yates, but the Texans were higher on the waiver priority list.
Tart would have been a huge help in the wake of D.J. Reader's season-ending quad injury, but the Bengals will have to wait until the spring to have a chance at adding the 6'2", 304-pound interior defender.
2024 NFL Draft: OT Kingsley Suamataia, BYU
Jonah Williams is set to hit free agency, and he might want to find a place that will allow him to return to left tackle. That could leave an important hole on the offensive line.
The Bengals have been down that road before. The franchise has (hopefully) learned the importance of protecting its franchise quarterback.
Kingsley Suamataia has the skills to become a cornerstone on the offensive line at right tackle. The 6'6", 325-pounder surrendered only two sacks for the Cougars this season.
(Previous Week's Selections: DT Brandon Williams, C Tyler Biadasz, WR Ladd McConkey)
Cleveland Browns
8 of 32
Raise your hand if you had 38-year-old Joe Flacco guiding a playoff contender to the postseason in the 2023 season. The former Super Bowl MVP moved to 3-1 as the Browns starter as Cleveland cruised to a 36-22 win over the Houston Texans. Flacco isn't just playing the role of trusty game manager, either. He's letting it rip, and the Browns' defense is a scary element of the game when the offense can back it up.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Wide Receiver
- Interior Defensive Line
- Edge-Rusher
- Running Back
- Offensive Tackle
Add Now: OG Andrew Norwell
The Browns are among the teams with the worst injury luck this season. They've had multiple season-ending ailments and the offensive line has been hit particularly hard. Both starting tackles are out for the season and just when Dawand Jones was coming on as a rookie at right tackle, his season was ended too. Then guard Joel Bitonio left last week's game with a back injury. The problem with back injuries is they often have a bad habit of flaring up.
The Browns would be wise to add another depth piece on the interior. Andrew Norwell could be an option. The free agent started 16 games for the Washington Commanders last season.
2024 Free Agency: DT Sheldon Rankins, Houston Texans
The Browns already tried to make a move to add a defensive tackle last week. They reportedly put in a waiver claim for Teair Tart after the Tennessee Titans released him, but the Texans had higher priority on the waiver wire.
The need for reinforcements on the inside will only grow as the Browns have several interior defenders with expiring contracts, including Shelby Harris and Jordan Elliott. Sheldon Rankins would be a fine addition. He's having a strong year as a pass-rusher and can hold his own in the run game.
2024 NFL Draft: DT Mekhi Wingo, LSU
The interior of the defensive line should look a lot different next season. With multiple pending free agents at the position, the Browns will continue to build the unit through the free agency and the draft.
Mekhi Wingo would be a worthwhile investment. His injury history, which includes an ailment that required surgery this season, will likely drive his draft cost down, but the upside is there. Wingo posted three sacks and six tackles for loss as a sophomore before the injury derailed his 2023 campaign.
(Previous Week's Selections: EDGE Carlos Dunlap, TE Gerald Everett, LB Payton Wilson)
Dallas Cowboys
9 of 32
The Dallas Cowboys' loss on Sunday didn't do the team any favors when it comes to dispelling any narratives heading into the playoffs. Dallas dropped another game to a postseason-caliber opponent and pushed its record to 3-5 on the road, which is especially concerning heading into the tournament seeing as it likely won't win the division.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Defensive Tackle
- Linebacker
- Strong Safety
- Right Tackle
Add Now: No one
No one available right now is going to help solve the Cowboys' problems as they need to look within to figure out their away game woes.
2024 Free Agency: IOL Graham Glasgow, Detroit Lions
It will be interesting to see what happens with Dallas' offensive line this offseason. Left tackle Tyron Smith is an impending free agent, and the team might move left guard Tyler Smith over to tackle to replace the elder Smith. Center Tyler Biadasz's contract is also about to expire, and the Cowboys are already projected to be over next year's salary cap, per Spotrac.
Jerry Jones might be looking for some interior offensive linemen in free agency, and cost-effective ones at that. Glasgow could be a good target seeing as he's played both guard spots and center throughout his career. He'll be 32 years old next season and is currently on a one-year, $2.75 million contract, so the price could be right for the Cowboys.
2024 NFL Draft: LB Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State
Leighton Vander Esch's career is hanging in the balance after he suffered another neck injury early this year. Dallas could use a linebacker who can stop the run if he does retire. That was a big reason why Buffalo Bills running back James Cook had a big game against them earlier this month.
Eichenberg has his flaws in coverage but is an impressive run defender. He has good instincts against the run to help take him to the right spot and is physical when taking on blocks from offensive linemen. The Ohio State product could be a good middle-round target, as he's currently in the fringe third- to fourth-round category on B/R's big board.
(Previous Week's Selections: G A.J. Cann, EDGE Markus Golden, IOL Zach Frazier)
Denver Broncos
10 of 32
The Broncos hit a new low point on Christmas Eve. With an opportunity to pick up a win and remain in the playoff race, Sean Payton's team was handed a stunning 26-23 loss to the New England Patriots. The Broncos couldn't block Christian Barmore, who had three sacks, and were unable to get the ground game going. After winning five consecutive games to get in the playoff conversation, they've lost three of their past four and have next to no chance to get in the playoffs.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Edge-Rusher
- Interior Defensive Lineman
- Linebacker
- Tight End
Add Now: DT Jerrod Clark, Los Angeles Chargers
The Broncos brought in defensive tackle Kobe Smith for a workout last week, according to 9News Sports Denver. If they're looking to add young talent on the defensive line, then poaching Jerrod Clark from the Chargers practice squad should be another consideration.
Clark has spent his rookie season on the practice squad, but the 6'3", 334-pound nose tackle could wind up being a replacement for Mike Purcell next season.
2024 Free Agency: TE Hunter Henry, New England Patriots
Most of our free-agent suggestions for the Broncos throughout the season have been on defense. Nearly all of their meaningful free agents are on that side of the ball, so it stands to reason that they'll direct their money there. But it isn't as though their offense is elite.
The Broncos will need to take a look at their skill players and figure out how they want to move forward. Greg Dulcich is still an exciting prospect at tight end, but he's been injured for all except two games this season, and Adam Trautman brings next to nothing as a receiver.
Signing Hunter Henry would ensure production from the position while still allowing for Dulcich to develop.
2024 NFL Draft: S Jaden Hicks, Washington State
Justin Simmons is 30, while Kareem Jackson is 35 and about to hit free agency. The Broncos need a succession plan at safety, and drafting Jaden Hicks out of Washington State could be an answer.
"Physical safety with excellent size and length," B/R scout Cory Giddings wrote. "Underneath box player who has the ability to play the run and pass game. Does a good job of reacting to the quarterback's eyes and breaking on the ball. Though he has some hip stiffness and burst out of his breaks, he boasts good straight-line speed when he's able to open his stride. When in position, he has the ball skills to locate and react to the ball in air.
"In coverage, he looks to be best as an underneath zone defender who will need help over the top. Hicks excels in the run game, using his strength and physicality to take on blocks and run through ball carriers on his tackles. He struggles at times in space due to his lack of change of direction and movement skills. Though he is limited in the schemes he could play, he does a great job with the things he's good at."
(Previous Week's Selections: EDGE Robert Quinn, DT D.J. Reader, CB Denzel Burke)
Detroit Lions
11 of 32
Sunday's win was a special one for the Detroit Lions and their fans, as the team clinched the NFC North crown for the first time while earning their first division title in 30 years. Detroit is just playing for seeding over these next two weeks with a huge matchup in Dallas coming up next.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Defensive Tackle
- Cornerback
- Safety
- Another Edge-Rusher
- Linebacker
Add Now: No one
C.J. Gardner-Johnson returned to practice this week, according to the Detroit Free Press, as did fullback Jason Cabinda, and backup quarterback Hendon Hooker was added to the roster. Also, Alim McNeill is on track to return, per The Detroit News, so help is on the way and they need to keep roster spots open.
2024 Free Agency: CB Kendall Fuller, Washington Commanders
Detroit's defense is lacking a true No. 1 corner on the boundary this season, and Emmanuel Moseley and Jerry Jacobs are impending free agents. So the Lions could use some added talent and depth in the position group in the offseason.
Fuller has been the top corner in Washington for a few years now and has played very well over the last three seasons. In 2023, he has earned good grades from Pro Football Focus as a run defender and in coverage, making him a good potential addition to the Lions' secondary.
Plus, the eight-year pro has only been to the playoffs three times in his career, so he might be willing to take a cheaper deal to play for a Super Bowl contender.
2024 NFL Draft: EDGE Jonah Elliss, Utah
The Lions could use another edge-rusher to play on the other side of Aidan Hutchinson, especially since they have several impending free agents at the position. Elliss could be a good NFL draft target for Brad Holmes as the Utah product currently is in the fringe second- and third-round category on B/R's big board.
Elliss sets up his pass-rush move well during the stem phase of the rush by getting square to sell the bull rush so offensive tackles stop their feet and then using a Eurostep to win around the edge. He also flashes hands to get tackles to throw their punch early and has an impressive inside spin move as a counter.
Elliss' biggest flaw as a rusher is that he has only average bend to turn a tight corner at the top of the rush. That could be a bigger issue in the NFL, but it's not as if he's terrible in this area and the problem can't be fixed.
(Previous Week's Selections: iOL Jon Feliciano, CB Nate Wiggins)
Green Bay Packers
12 of 32
Sunday's game was certainly a lot closer than it needed to be, but the Green Bay Packers managed to get back on track in Carolina. Green Bay's playoff hopes are still alive, but it has a crucial, must-win matchup with Minnesota next week.
Biggest Weaknesses
- Cornerback
- Offensive Line depth
- Guard
- Linebacker
- Wide Reciever
Add now: LB Cory Littleton
De'Vondre Campbell has battled injuries all year and missed Sunday's game with a neck injury. He also had a cryptic post/tweet on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, seen below.
"Not going out my way anymore and I'm not playing through injuries anymore cause when s*** goes wrong they always use it against you. I'm treating everyone accordingly and giving them the same energy they giving me. Focus on yourself and your mental 59 you owe it to yourself."
So, it might be smart to bring in another veteran linebacker seeing as the Packers' playoff hopes are still alive.
2024 Free Agency: G Kevin Dotson, Los Angeles Rams
Jon Runyan is an impending free agent and hasn't been much more than an average player throughout his career, including this season. Meanwhile, Dotson (27) is only a year older than Runyan (26) and is putting together a strong campaign with a strong 83.2 grade from Pro Football Focus heading into Week 16.
LaFleur used to be Sean McVay's offensive coordinator in Los Angeles and those two come from the Shanahan coaching tree, so Dotson should have some familiarity with the system in Green Bay.
This signing might take some financial maneuvering by the Packers, as they're estimated to have about $6.5 million in cap space to begin the offseason, per Spotrac. However, they do have a few contracts that they can get out of to save some money, most notably David Bakhtiari's.
2024 NFL Draft: S Kamren Kinchens, Miami
The Packers have several safeties whose contracts are about to expire, including starter Darnell Savage. Kinchens could be a good option to replace Savage, as the former Hurricane is currently the top free safety on B/R's NFL draft big board.
"Kinchens is a versatile defender in the pass game," B/R's defensive backs scout Cory Giddings said in his scouting report for the Miami product. "He has countless snaps as both a deep defender from the one-high look and in man coverage from the slot. He does a good job of playing under control in his backpedal, displaying quick feet to get out of his pedal and drive on the ball.
"Kinchens has good route recognition and the ability to read and react to the quarterback's eyes, especially when in underneath coverage. His ball skills shine through with his ability to locate the ball and the range to cover grass.
"Though he does a good job of anticipating the throw, he has poor eye discipline, allowing double-moves or eye candy to take him out of position in the pass game."
(Previous Week's Selections: S Kyle Duggar, RB Braelon Allen)
Houston Texans
13 of 32
The Texans are still in the playoff hunt, but their chances have taken a blow and they have to turn things around pretty quickly. Joe Flacco carved up the Texans secondary while handing Houston a 36-22 loss that dropped it to the eighth slot in the AFC. This team needs C.J. Stroud back. The rookie quarterback missed his second successive game in the concussion protocol, but there is hope he will play next week against the Titans, per Adam Schefter of ESPN.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Interior Defensive Lineman
- Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
- Edge Defender
- Linebacker
Add Now: CB Casey Hayward
The Texans have done a good job of remaining competitive this season despite dealing with a ton of injuries. With just two games left on the regular-season schedule and a playoff berth still on the line, they should consider making a win-now move like signing Casey Hayward.
The 34-year-old was still an effective nickel corner last season and could play that role for the Texans, allowing Jimmie Ward to play more safety when he clears concussion protocol.
2024 Free Agency: LB Devin White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
It's safe to say Devin White might be better suited going elsewhere in 2024. He didn't play in the Buccaneers' Week 15 win over the Green Bay Packers because he told the team he "couldn't go" thanks to a foot injury, per head coach Todd Bowles. It's also worth remembering that he requested a trade last offseason.
Perhaps connecting with DeMeco Ryans could help White get his career back on track. He's a productive blitzer, and Texans linebacker Blake Cashman is set to hit the free-agent market. Signing White and re-signing Cashman would give the Texans a strong pairing on the inside.
2024 NFL Draft: CB T.J. Tampa, Iowa State
Derek Stingley Jr. has looked like the top-five pick the Texans were hoping he would be when they selected him at No. 3 in 2022. He's been a shutdown corner since he returned from a hamstring injury in Week 9.
Steven Nelson has also played well on the opposite side, but he's in the final year of his contract and is about to be 31. It's time for the Texans to find his replacement in the draft.
T.J. Tampa would be a good choice. The 6'2", 200-pound corner has an exciting receiver-like frame and the movement skills to stick with pass-catchers.
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Marcus Peters, CB Adoree' Jackson, WR Devontez Walker)
Indianapolis Colts
14 of 32
The Colts continue to be a difficult team to figure out on a weekly basis. One week after picking up a huge win over Pittsburgh, they laid an egg against the struggling Atlanta Falcons. The offense scored just 10 points with Michael Pittman Jr. out of the lineup. They are still alive in the playoff race, but their odds took a big hit with the loss.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Safety
- Edge Defender
- Tight End
- Wide Receiver
Add Now: WR Anthony Schwartz, Miami Dolphins
The Colts front office has valued athleticism in the draft in recent years. They are always looking to add exceptional athleticism to their roster.
Anthony Schwartz isn't the most well-rounded player or athlete out there, but he has elite speed. The receiver ran a 4.27 40-yard dash at Auburn's pro day in 2021 and has the speed to pull away from defenses.
With a receiver room that has been hampered by injuries and is still under construction for 2024, poaching Schwartz from the Dolphins' practice squad would give the Colts an opportunity to see what he can do.
2024 Free Agency: S Antoine Winfield Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Starting safety Julian Blackmon is set to hit free agency in 2024. The Colts could try to retain him, but Nick Cross is waiting in the wings for one of the starting spots, so it could also be a place where they look to upgrade.
Winfield has been one of Pro Football Focus' highest-graded safeties this season. He can move all over the field and makes enough splash plays to warrant top dollar at the position.
Winfield has a ton of pass breakups this season, but he's a productive blitzer who could add some bite to the Colts secondary.
2024 NFL Draft: CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama
JuJu Brents and Jaylon Johnson have done an admirable job of stepping into big roles as rookie cornerbacks, but they haven't necessarily cemented themselves as long-term starters. Brents looks like he could be an answer with his massive size and early success, but that shouldn't preclude the Colts from looking at taking another corner early.
Terrion Arnold has been a draft-board riser this season. The redshirt sophomore has caught the attention of scouts thanks to his physicality and versatility. He could work out as an outside corner or kick inside and play the Kenny Moore role if the Colts don't retain the veteran.
(Previous Week's Selections: WR Denzel Mims, CB Jaylon Johnson, LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr.)
Jacksonville Jaguars
15 of 32
The wheels haven't completely come off for the Jaguars yet, but it's getting harder to deny that they are awfully wobbly and the creaking is getting louder. The Jaguars didn't just lose to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, they were soundly beaten. The Bucs beat them 30-12 in a loss that would have hurt their playoff chances a lot more if the Texans and Colts didn't also lose.
To make matters worse, Trevor Lawrence suffered a shoulder sprain that will be important to monitor this week.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Edge Defender
- Interior Defensive Line
- Cornerback
- Wide Receiver
- Safety
Add Now: WR Laquon Treadwell, Baltimore Ravens
Desperate times call for desperate measures and the Jaguars' receiver situation is starting to get pretty desperate. Christian Kirk is out for the year and Zay Jones suffered a hamstring injury in Week 15. Calvin Ridley is still healthy and Jamal Agnew has made some plays, but they are still missing a bigger-bodied downfield threat.
Laquon Treadwell resembles the role. He's 6'2" and 215 pounds, and his most successful season came in 2021 when he was with the Jaguars and had Trevor Lawrence throwing him the football. A reunion could be worth a shot as they can sign him off Baltimore's practice squad.
2024 Free Agency: S Xavier McKinney, New York Giants
The Jaguars need to make some adjustments in the secondary in the 2024 offseason. Andre Cisco has earned the right to keep his job, but finding another safety to play for Rayshawn Jenkins would be good. That would allow them to keep Antonio Johnson in the slot where he has already shown promise as a rookie.
Xavier McKinney would be a massive upgrade. Going into Week 16 he was the sixth-highest-rated safety in the league by PFF. McKinney has some versatility too and would give the Jaguars a more athletic back seven that could defend some of the high-powered offenses in the AFC.
2024 NFL Draft: EDGE Bralen Trice, Washington
The Jaguars potentially have answers on the edge. Josh Allen is a free agent and Travon Walker is still developing into the player the Jags hoped he would be when they made him the No. 1 pick. Still, there's reason to add another high-caliber prospect on the edge because of the firepower and versatility it would give them defensively.
Bralen Trice makes sense because he has the size to potentially kick inside on some of his snaps. At 6'4", 274 pounds, he's a much different player than Allen. He's a heavy-handed power rusher who could help elevate the Jaguars pass rush.
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Sidney Jones IV, EDGE Bryce Huff, DT Tyler Davis)
Kansas City Chiefs
16 of 32
The same old song and dance repeated itself for the Chiefs in Week 16. The defense played lights-out against the Raiders offense, while the offensive woes were too much to overcome. Vegas scored two defensive touchdowns en route to a surprise 20-14 upset.
Between dropped passes, two turnovers that went the other way for six and plenty of other miscues, the Chiefs continue to look out of sorts offensively. A good defense and Patrick Mahomes is always going to be a little scary in the playoffs, but it's hard to make the case for the Chiefs being a Super Bowl favorite.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Wide Receiver
- Interior Defender
- Offensive Tackle
- Edge Defender
- Cornerback
Add Now: No one
Last week, we featured Zach Ertz in this spot. He remains a good option, but the Chiefs are also getting Mecole Hardman back, which should give them another receiver to throw into the mix.
With the playoffs just a few weeks away, the Chiefs are mostly left to figure out how to maximize who they already have on the roster.
2024 Free Agency: WR Darnell Mooney, Chicago Bears
It's been no secret that the Chiefs' wide receiver room has been a letdown this year. Rashee Rice has come on as an option worth believing in, but the rest of the unit has underwhelmed.
The Chiefs could take a swing a top free-agent receiver like Mike Evans or Tee Higgins this offseason. However, they've been committed to not spending big money on receivers. They even traded away Tyreek Hill rather than pay him a top-of-the-market contract.
If that's still their approach, then targeting a buy-low candidate like Mooney would make sense. The speedster had a 1,000-yard season in 2021, but he has been phased out of Chicago's offense since.
2024 NFL Draft: DT McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M
Chris Jones is one of the best interior defenders in the NFL, but he's going to require a huge financial commitment this offseason. If the Chiefs don't retain him, then defensive tackle will quickly become a major need.
Even if they do, they could use more defensive line depth and a run-stuffing presence. Here's B/R NFL draft scout Matt Holder on what Jackson brings to the table:
"Interior defensive lineman who is impressively quick for his size and has shown some good athleticism. His combination of strength and athletic ability make him an intriguing prospect, and he could be scheme versatile to play nose in odd fronts and 2i in evens. However, Jackson has issues with his base/balance and doesn't offer much as a pass-rusher."
(Previous Week's Selections: TE Zach Ertz, DT Grover Stewart, WR Troy Franklin)
Las Vegas Raiders
17 of 32
The Raiders might be out of the playoff race, but they continue to play hard under interim head coach Antonio Pierce. That's the only way you pull off an upset like they did against the Kansas City Chiefs despite having nothing tangible to play for this late in the season. The Raiders offense was without Josh Jacobs and Aidan O'Connell only competed nine of 21 pass attempts, but the defense scored two touchdowns and the offense got enough field goals to pull off the win.
Pierce continues to make himself an intriguing candidate to remove the "interim" in his current title.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Quarterback
- Right Tackle
- Cornerback
- Edge Defender
- Interior Defender
Add Now: CB Mekhi Garner, Philadelphia Eagles
At this point, the Raiders should have their eye on anyone whom they might be able to poach from a practice squad and could be useful in 2024. The Raiders' cornerback room has been a mess all season, and there's likely to be more pieces moved around in the offseason.
Mekhi Garner is on the Eagles' practice squad, but the rookie has great length at 6'2" and 212 pounds and has been elevated a few times. The Raiders might just find a diamond in the rough if they can sign him to their active roster.
2024 Free Agency: DT Justin Jones, Chicago Bears
The Raiders get next to no pass-rush help from their defensive tackles right now. Going into Week 16, Jerry Tillery (2), Adam Butler (2) and Bilal Nichols (1.5) were their only defensive tackles with more than one sack this season.
The free-agent class at defensive tackle is loaded, but the top names will be expensive. Jones could be the perfect intersection of production and value for the Raiders, though. The 27-year-old had 3.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits going into Week 16.
2024 NFL Draft: WR Rome Odunze, Washington
This one is contingent on what the Raiders wind up doing with Davante Adams. If they don't trade the veteran in the offseason, then they likely won't be looking to target a wide receiver in the first round.
However, the Jets are reportedly looking to make a run at Adams in the offseason, per ESPN's Adam Schefter, and the trade haul could be significant. The fact that the Raiders could get a receiver like Odunze in the first round makes it worth considering.
"Odunze is a quarterback's best friend," B/R NFL draft scout Derrik Klassen wrote in his scouting report for the Washington product. He's a reliable route-runner with good size and an accuracy-erasing catch radius. Odunze can be a classic X receiver who moonlights as a slot receiver from time to time thanks to his awareness and ability to play in traffic."
(Previous Week's Selections: OT Isaiah Prince, OT Tyron Smith, CB T.J. Tampa)
Los Angeles Chargers
18 of 32
The Chargers' first game without Brandon Staley didn't bring a win, but the team was competitive in a 24-22 loss to the Buffalo Bills. The defense played much better, going from getting dominated against the Raiders a week ago to mostly holding the Bills in check. Unfortunately, they couldn't get one last stop when the Bills marched down the field to kick the game-winning field goal with less than a minute left.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Interior Defender
- Linebacker
- Right Tackle
- Wide Receiver
Add Now: EDGE Lonnie Phelps Jr., Cleveland Browns
The Chargers defense gave up 63 points to the Las Vegas Raiders two weeks ago. They should be making major changes on that side of the ball during the 2024 offseason, so it wouldn't hurt to already start looking for young players who could help next year.
Phelps went undrafted this past year, but he had a productive college career at Miami (Ohio) and Kansas. He posted 25 tackles for loss and 15.5 sacks over his final two collegiate seasons. He also posted a respectable 8.43 relative athletic score leading up to the draft.
2024 Free Agency: WR DJ Chark, Carolina Panthers
Wide receiver is an underrated need for the Chargers. Keenan Allen and Mike Williams are a strong duo at the top when healthy, and Quentin Johnston has shown signs of improvement now that the Chargers have been forced to rely on him. But the Chargers would save $20 million against the cap if they part ways with Williams this offseason, and Allen isn't getting any younger.
Signing DJ Chark to a reasonable one-year contract would create the flexibility to release Williams. He's a similarly built receiver at 6'3" and 200 pounds, and he's a proven field-stretcher.
2024 NFL Draft: RB Trey Benson, Florida State
Austin Ekeler's contract situation is one of the big questions of the 2024 offseason. Re-signing him would be great in a vacuum, but the Chargers have too many needs at premium positions to be giving out a big contract to a running back.
The Chargers would thus be better off finding an answer in the draft. B/R NFL draft scout Derrik Klassen has Benson as his top running back in a relatively weak draft class.
"Trey Benson is the front-runner for the RB1 spot in this class," Klassen wrote. "In an underwhelming class overall, he brings a degree of explosiveness and big-play ability that is tough to find elsewhere.
"Benson bring a ton of juice, both to outrun angles to the perimeter and to take any run to the house. He's also a tough, violent runner. Vision and pacing is a problem for Benson at times, but his sheer athletic ability is worth taking a swing on somewhere during Day 2."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Greedy Williams, DT Michael Pierce, WR Malik Nabers)
Los Angeles Rams
19 of 32
The Los Angeles Rams are one of the hottest teams in the NFL right now, as Thursday's victory gives them five wins in their past six games—the lone slip-up being an overtime loss in Baltimore. Los Angeles is now above .500 for the first time since Week 1, and it controls its own destiny for a wild-card spot to end the regular season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Left Tackle
- Edge-Rusher
- Linebacker
- Tight End
Add Now: No one
The Rams walked away from their mid-week contest with no major injuries and are rolling right now. There's no reason to add someone at the moment.
2024 Free Agency: S Antoine Winfield Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers
With Jordan Fuller and John Johnson about to hit free agency, Los Angeles will likely be looking for a new safety in the offseason. Antoine Winfield Jr. will be one of the top players available at the position and an upgrade over Fuller and Johnson.
Heading into the weekend, the former Pro Bowler had earned elite grades from Pro Football Focus nearly across the board. Coverage was the only area in which he fell short of the mark, by just one point, and quarterbacks had a 51.2 passer rating when targeting him.
Also, Spotrac estimates that the Rams will begin the spring with about $45.7 million in cap space to help make this pairing happen.
2024 NFL Draft: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson
Staying within the secondary, cornerback also projects to be one of Les Sneeds' biggest priorities this offseason as Ahkello Witherspoon is an impending free agent. Wiggins could be a good Day 2 target as he currently ranks 56th on B/R's big board and has a third-round grade.
"When playing in coverage, he does a very good job of using his length," B/R defensive backs scout Cory Giddings said of the 6'2" corner. "When in press, he uses his hands well to control and redirect receivers off the line of scrimmage. With his fluid hips, he's able to seamlessly open and run, with the ability to quickly sink his hips and transition out of breaks.
"He can be a bit lazy at times with his pad level, causing him to round breaks or be slower to drive on the ball, but when done correctly, he has the footwork to burst out of breaks and drive on receivers.
"When working down the field he has the speed to run with receivers, although he is inconsistent with his positioning; showing the top-notch recovery speed he has to get back into phase.
"Wiggins often relies on face guarding downfield and playing through the hands of receivers. When the ball is in front of him, he does a great job of showing his ball skills and the timing he has to break up passes."
(Previous Week's Selections: TE Zach Ertz, CB Kendall Fuller, OT Patrick Paul)
Miami Dolphins
20 of 32
The Dolphins have 11 wins this season, but the 11th one was just a little more important than the rest. It was their first victory over a team with a winning record this season. The Cowboys have been one of the best teams in the league this year, and the Dolphins were able to gut out a win on a 29-yard field goal as time expired.
Whether the Dolphins could win games like this was really the final question they had to answer before the playoffs.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Left Guard
- Edge-Rusher
- Tight End
- Interior Defender
- Linebacker
Add Now: WR Damiere Byrd
There was a lot of great news for the Miami Dolphins this week, but the injury report coming out of the game was not one of them. Both Robbie Chosen and Jaylen Waddle left the game with injuries. If either injury is serious then Miami might have to find at least one more receiver.
Damiere Byrd has the requisite speed to be part of the group. The 30-year-old ran a 4.28 40-yard dash back in the day and has 1,689 yards and seven touchdowns in his career.
2024 Free Agency: S Jordan Fuller, Los Angeles Rams
Safety is an under-the-radar need for the Dolphins. The combination of DeShon Elliott and Jevon Holland have ben good for Miami. The problem is that Elliott, Brandon Jones and Elijah Campbell are all on expiring contracts. Elliott has turned in a good year, but that could mean he's too expensive with other teams looking to poach him.
If that happens, Jordan Fuller would be a good investment. He's not going to make a ton of splash plays, but he's a reliable and dependable veteran who could make sure the bottom doesn't fall out.
2024 NFL Draft: LB Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M
Jerome Baker is set to become a free agent, and the Dolphins' other off-ball linebackers are a mixture of middle-of-the road veterans with limited upside outside of Channing Tindall. It's a room that could use more youth.
Like Tindall, Edgerrin Cooper is a good athlete. His closing speed and ability to run down ball-carriers on the perimeter is a strength. At 6'3", 230 pounds, he could stand to put a little more weight on his frame, but the speed and length give him the tools to develop into a strong zone coverage asset.
(Previous Week's Selections: No One, OG John Simpson, DL Rylie Mills)
Minnesota Vikings
21 of 32
The Minnesota Vikings' playoff hopes continued to fade on Sunday, as the loss in Detroit was their fourth in their past five games. Next week's matchup against Green Bay will be crucial in both teams' quest for a wild-card spot.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Quarterback
- Interior Pass-Rush
- Running Back
- Right Tackle
- Cornerback
Add Now: WR T.Y. Hilton
The Vikings' playoff hopes are fading but they still have a chance to make the tournament. However, that could be much more difficult if Jordan Addison has to miss time after he suffered an injury against the Lions. The pickings are slim at this stage in the game and at least Hilton can replace the deep threat that the rookie brings to the offense.
2024 Free Agency: QB Gardner Minshew, Indianapolis Colts
The quarterback situation in Minnesota is going to be one of the early storylines to watch during the offseason.
Kirk Cousins' contract expires at the end of the year and he will be a 36-year-old who is coming off a torn Achilles, so it's not a slam dunk that he's retained. But, the Vikings are also likely going to be out of range for drafting one of the top passers in this year's class, barring a trade-up.
If Kwesi Adofo-Mensah doesn't want to re-sign Cousins nor give up a ton of assets to go after a quarterback prospect, Minshew would be a solid option in free agency since he's done a good job of filling in for Anthony Richardson this season.
The five-year veteran had a 63.3 completion percentage, nearly 2,800 yards and 14 touchdowns heading into this weekend while keeping the Colts in the playoff hunt.
2024 NFL Draft: DL Leonard Taylor III, Miami
Minnesota's interior pass-rush has been lackluster all season and Jonathan Bullard is an impending free agent. So defensive tackle will likely be one of their top priorities in the draft and Taylor III could help solve their problems as he currently ranks second at the position on B/R's NFL draft big board.
"Overall, Taylor is a fairly complete player," the former Hurricane's scouting report says. "He has a good frame, is hard to move with one-on-one blocks against the run and has shown a few pass-rush moves he can win with.
"His biggest flaw is his pad level, which is the primary cause of many of his issues. When the Hurricane does keep his pads down, he's hard to block and very disruptive."
(Previous Week's Selections: OT Dennis Kelly, EDGE Carl Lawson, LB Edgerrin Cooper)
New England Patriots
22 of 32
The New England Patriots stunned the Broncos with a 26-23 win, which isn't exactly the gift Pats fans were probably hoping for this Christmas. It was good to see a three-sack performance from Christian Barmore. He is one of the few young bright spots on this roster. But the Patriots' win dropped them out of the top two selections in the 2024 draft, which makes it less likely they'll wind up with Caleb Williams or Drake Maye.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Quarterback
- Offensive Tackle
- Wide Receiver
- Edge-Rusher
- Cornerback
Add Now: TE Zack Kuntz, New York Jets
If the Patriots are going to do anything over these last few weeks, it should be looking for young talent to poach from a practice squad so they can sign them to a future contract. In this case, the prospect is an ultra-athletic tight end who could give them an option at a position that might become thin in the offseason.
Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki are both set to be free agents after this season. Kuntz was a seventh-round draft pick out of Old Dominion, but the 6'7", 255-pound tight end posted a perfect 10.0 relative athletic score, which included a 40" vertical and a 4.55-second 40-yard dash.
2024 Free Agency: EDGE Brian Burns, Carolina Panthers
Brian Burns is a logical candidate for the franchise tag, but if he does reach the open market, the Patriots should be willing to pay top dollar. The biggest problem with this roster is that it has almost no answers at each of the most important positions on both sides of the ball.
On defense, that's at edge-rusher. Josh Uche is a productive pass-rush specialist, but Matthew Judon will be 32 next season and played only four games before a torn bicep ended his season.
Burns would at least give the Pats one exciting pass-rusher to build around.
2024 NFL Draft: CB Fentrell Cypress II, Florida State
Pass-rusher isn't the only premium position where the Patriots have to continue searching for answers. They need to keep throwing darts at rebuilding their secondary, too.
Selecting Christian Gonzalez in the first round of the 2023 draft was a good start, but Fentrell Cypress II would be a great later-round pick this year. B/R NFL draft scout Cory Giddings likes that Cypress can do multiple things well on the field.
"Shows scheme versatility," Giddings wrote. "Does a good job getting hands on in press but can be too handsy downfield. Plays the ball with good timing and awareness. Shows some tightness and has sloppy footwork at times but has the raw athletic skill to burst out of breaks. Has the top-end speed to run with receivers, though he doesn't do a good job of opening to keep his cushion. Has been used to blitz often and isn't afraid of getting in the run game but is a questionable tackler at times."
(Previous Week's Selections: RB DeWayne McBride, CB Jaylon Johnson, IOL Graham Barton)
New Orleans Saints
23 of 32
The New Orleans Saints' playoff hopes are fading quickly after Thursday night's loss in Los Angeles. New Orleans still has a chance to win the NFC South with matchups against Tampa Bay and Atlanta to finish the regular season, but those are "must wins" as they don't control their own destiny anymore.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Guard
- Quarterback
- Left Tackle
- Tight End
- Wide Receiver
Add Now: OT Dennis Kelly
Right tackle Ryan Ramczyk missed his second successive game on Thursday, and the Saints aren't in a position to take many risks when it comes to their pass protection. It'd be smart to bring in Kelly as an insurance policy just in case.
2024 Free Agency: OT Jonah Williams, Cincinnati Bengals
New Orleans has been starting Andrus Peat at left tackle after benching Trevor Penning. Peat's contract is about to expire in the offseason, meaning the team will be looking for a new blind-side protector. However, that will be difficult to find seeing as they're estimated to begin free agency significantly in the red, per Spotrac.
Williams isn't having a good year, as he had surrendered seven sacks heading into this weekend, according to Pro Football Focus, but he's also been playing somewhat out of position at right tackle. In the Big Easy, he'd get to move back to his preferred side of the center and have an opportunity to increase his value.
The veteran could take a cheaper "prove-it" type of deal and might be Mickey Loomis' best option given the market and team's limited cap space.
2024 NFL Draft: OL Graham Barton, Duke
In addition to potentially losing Peat, James Hurst, Trai Turner, Max Garcia and Billy Price are impending free agents, so the Saints will need to add a few offensive linemen this spring. Barton could be a good NFL draft target as he has the versatility to play multiple spots on the offensive line and currently holds a second-round grade on B/R's big board.
"Barton has an advanced understanding of how to win leverage on defenders with positioning, pad level and good quickness to get into initial fits on time," B/R offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. "He shows good hand placement with excellent grip strength to sustain, steer and finish blocks at a high level to create rush lanes off of his backside in the zone run game.
"Overall, Barton is a stubborn, sticky blocker with the short-area quickness, play strength and competitive toughness to make a successful transition inside and become a solid, dependable starter right away at guard or center in a multiple run scheme. Barton's profile and projection is very similar to Forrest Lamp coming out of Western Kentucky in terms of body type, play style and pro expectations."
(Previous Week's Selections: OL La'el Collins, LB Willie Gay Jr., CB Kris Abrams-Draine)
New York Giants
24 of 32
The New York Giants made it a good game on Christmas Day but ultimately didn't have enough to come back home with the win against the Philadelphia Eagles. The good news is New York now holds a top-five pick heading into the last two weeks of the season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Interior Offensive Line
- Quarterback
- Right Tackle
- Cornerback
- 2nd Edge
Add Now: S Verone McKinley
At this stage in the season, the Giants should just be looking to add young players who could potentially be worth a future/reserve contract. Xavier McKinney is an impending free agent, so they're going to need some depth at safety in the offseason at the least.
They might as well see what McKinley can do over these next few weeks.
2024 Free Agency: OL Mike Onwenu, New York Giants
The Giants' offensive line has been a major issue this season, and they have several impending free agents at guard this offseason. Onwenu will be one of the best interior linemen available, as he came in at No. 23 overall on B/R's NFL free agency big board.
The Giants will have some money to spend, as Spotrac estimates them to begin the spring with just under $37 million in cap space, so they can pay top dollar to address one of their biggest needs. The current Patriot also has plenty of experience playing right tackle, so he could step in for Evan Neal, too.
2024 NFL Draft: OL Troy Fautanu, Washington
Even if the Giants sign Onwenu, they need to add more than one offensive lineman this offseason. Fautanu can play tackle or guard and is currently the only interior offensive line prospect with a first-round grade on B/R's NFL draft big board.
"Fautanu is a dynamic run-blocker with the burst, quickness and power to cut off or cave in defenders on reach, scoop and angle-drive blocks, ricochet up to the second level and take out 'backers, plus erase smaller targets on tosses, screens and counters," B/R's offensive line scout Bradon Thorn wrote in the Washington product's scouting report.
"He brings a tone-setting demeanor with the coordination, body control and sustain skills to finish at a high level, with the ability to deliver jarring knockdowns and body blows once latched and/or on contact.
"In pass protection, Fautanu is a charged-up, easy mover out of his stance and in his sets with a default aggressive, attacking mentality that he works to balance with flashes of tact and poise. He works in varied strikes and pass sets to keep rushers guessing with an understanding of how to maximize his length and keep defenders at his fingertips."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Danny Johnson, WR DJ Chark, DL Ruke Orhorhoro)
New York Jets
25 of 32
Jets fans aren't likely to take too much solace in beating a hapless Washington Commanders team that has nothing to play for right now. They should still be excited about a huge game from Breece Hall, though. He posted 191 total yards and seems to really be getting better as he puts more time between himself and the ACL injury that ended his season last year.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Offensive Tackle
- Safety
- Wide Receiver
- Quarterback
- Interior Defender
Add Now: No one
The Jets are already giving up an active roster spot for Aaron Rodgers, who is returning from injured reserve but won't play in any games. They placed defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson on injured reserve last week, but they signed fellow defensive lineman Jalyn Holmes to take his roster spot.
2024 Free Agency: WR Gabe Davis, Buffalo Bills
Garrett Wilson is a legitimate No. 1 receiver, but Allen Lazard has been a disappointment as the Jets' No. 2 option. The Jets' quarterback play hasn't been great and the offensive line is a major issue, but Lazard has been reduced to a non-factor in plenty of games this season.
Gabe Davis might not be among the league's best No. 2 receivers, but he's a consistent red-zone threat with at least six touchdowns in every season he's played. The 6'2", 225-pounder can go up and get 50-50 balls and is used to playing second fiddle to an elite receiver like Wilson.
2024 NFL Draft: S Lathan Ransom, Ohio State
Jordan Whitehead, Chuck Clark and Ashtyn Davis are all on expiring contracts, so the Jets will presumably kick the tires on the safety class. Ohio State's Lathan Ransom isn't going to be one of the first safeties who hears his name called in April, but he's an experienced starter with three years of production at Ohio State.
He's likely to be most suited playing in the box, but he's a tough player. Jets head coach Robert Saleh would appreciate his physicality.
(Previous Week's Selections: IOL Logan Bruss, DB C.J. Gardner-Johnson, WR Jermaine Burton)
Philadelphia Eagles
26 of 32
The Philadelphia Eagles don't like making it look easy, but they got the job done and now hold the No. 2 seed heading into the final two weeks of the season. Philadelphia also has a favorable schedule with matchups against Arizona and New York again to round out the campaign.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Wide Receiver Depth
- Linebacker
- Tight End
Add Now: CB William Jackson III
Cornerback has become a big issue for the Eagles as the position group, especially James Bradberry, has been a big reason why they were on a losing streak heading into Christmas. It'd be smart to bring in Jackson III now so that he can learn the playbook and be ready to go for the playoffs just in case.
2024 Free Agency: RB Joshua Kelley, Los Angeles Chargers
Three out of the four running backs on Philadelphia's current active roster are impending free agents, so they'll likely be looking to add a back or two in the offseason. Kenneth Gainwell will be the lone player who is still under contract, so they'll at least have a pass-catcher out of the backfield next year.
Kelley can serve as the between-the-tackles/downhill runner, as he has a good build for that role at 5'11" and nearly 215 pounds. He's also having a good season already setting a career-high with 404 rushing yards through 14 games and averaging 4.0 yards per tote while serving as the Chargers' No. 2 running back.
2024 NFL Draft: CB T.J. Tampa, Iowa State
Building on the note above about Bradberry, per Spotrac, the team has a potential out in his contract after next season and Howie Roseman might want to think about drafting the 30-year-old's replacement this spring. At 6'2" and 200 pounds, Tampa has similar size and ball skills as Bradberry, making him a good alternate option down the line.
"As a bigger cornerback, Tampa shows great movement skills," B/R NFL draft scout Cory Giddings said. "He has the scheme flexibility to play in both man and zone coverages. When playing in man coverage, he often plays press, where he shows the ability to move his feet laterally to match releases and uses his length to disrupt receivers as they work downfield.
"He quickly gets into phase and does a very good job of sinking his hips to transition. There are times when he plays a bit too high, which causes him to be slower out of his breaks; but generally, he does a great job of showing a burst out of his breaks and driving on the ball.
"When playing the ball he shows very good timing on playing through the receiver's hands and has the ball skills to track and play the ball in the air. When in zone coverage, he does a great job of splitting his threats, as well as anticipating potential threats coming into his zones."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Casey Hayward, iOL Graham Glasgow, LB Payton Wilson)
Pittsburgh Steelers
27 of 32
The Steelers finally found a spark for the offense in the form of Mason Rudolph against the Cincinnati Bengals. Rudolph threw for 279 yards and two touchdowns while the Steelers won a huge AFC North game 34-11. Kenny Pickett practiced during the week so head coach Mike Tomlin is going to have a really interesting decision to make this week as the Steelers remain in contention for a playoff spot.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Cornerback
- Offensive Tackle
- Wide Receiver
- Quarterback
- Interior Defender
Add Now: S P.J. Williams
Damontae Kazee was suspended for the rest of the season for the repeated violation of player safety rules, culminating in an illegal hit that took Michael Pittman Jr. out of their game against the Colts. Kazee started nine games at safety this season. While Miles Killebrew is filling in, P.J. Williams might offer a higher ceiling. The 30-year-old has 33 career passes defended in 89 games and 34 starts for the Saints.
2024 Free Agency: DT DaQuan Jones, Buffalo Bills
DaQuan Jones has been quiet this season because of an injury that put him on injured reserve after just five games. However, the Bills have opened up his practice window so his recovery is well ahead of schedule to play in 2024. The run-stuffing defensive tackle had 2.5 sacks in his five games before the injury and has a relatively clean bill of health outside of the pectoral injury this year.
The Steelers have some young interior defenders who should step up next season, but they will still need some veteran reinforcements.
2024 NFL Draft: OT Amarius Mims, Georgia
The Steelers have a lot to address on offense, but finally getting two strong tackles would put them on the right path. The left tackle spot has been shaky since Alejandro Villanueva started to decline. Former fourth-round pick Dan Moore Jr. exceeded expectations at first, but he's settled into playing like a former fourth-rounder.
Broderick Jones has shown enough development to believe he has a chance at being the starter on either the right or left side. Drafting Amarius Mims would give them another high-upside tackle from Athens. Here's Brandon Thorn on the mammoth offensive tackle:
"Overall, Mims is a towering figure who looks like he was built in a lab with how lean, rocked-up and easy of a mover he is at 340 pounds. He glides in his pass sets with the range, length and natural power of a future high-level NFL pass-protector, but he needs to be coached up with his positional leverage, footwork and sustain skills before reaching his full potential."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Greedy Williams, WR Noah Brown, G/T Taliese Fuaga)
San Francisco 49ers
28 of 32
While the San Francisco 49ers suffered a tough loss in Monday night's potential Super Bowl preview, San Francisco still holds the No. 1 seed in the NFC and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Plus, they have a chance to get back on track against Washington next week. They can lock up the top spot with a win and a loss by Detroit.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Guard
- Right Tackle
- Safety
- Center
Add Now: OL La'el Collins
The 49ers suffered a few injuries to offensive linemen against the Ravens, including to starters Trent Williams and Aaron Banks. Collins has experience playing guard and tackle, and it would be smart to have a proven veteran on hand as an insurance policy for the playoffs.
2024 Free Agency: OT George Fant, Houston Texans
While Colton McKivitz has been playing better over the last few weeks, he's been subpar for the majority of the season and is only signed through 2024. It'd be smart for the Niners to bring in some competition at right tackle, particularly someone who might be willing to take a cheaper deal since they're projected to be over the cap to begin the offseason.
Since Fant will be 32 years old next season, he might be willing to take less money in free agency to play for a Super Bowl contender. He's been solid in pass protection this season with just three sacks allowed through Week 15, according to Pro Football Focus, compared to seven for McKivitz.
2024 NFL Draft: WR Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky
Wide receiver won't be a pressing need for the Niners during the NFL draft, but Ray-Ray McCloud is an impending free agent, so there will be at least one spot to fill on the depth chart. Corley would be a good target since he currently has a fifth-round grade on B/R's NFL draft big board and fits head coach Kyle Shanahan's type at receiver.
"Malachi Corley is a 'running back playing receiver' type of prospect," B/R's offensive skill position scout Derrik Klassen said. "At 5'11" and 210 pounds, he rocks a thick build that he uses to his advantage as a ball-carrier.
"Corley is a tough, balanced runner who knows how to fight for extra yards and fight tacklers off of him. He isn't a polished route-runner right now, and he may not have the juice to be a true difference-maker in the league, but you love his strength and toughness as an underneath yards-after-the-catch player."
(Previous Week's selections: DT Ndamukong Suh, TE Geoff Swaim, CB Kris Abrams-Draine)
Seattle Seahawks
29 of 32
It certainly wasn't pretty, but the Seattle Seahawks managed to get the job done in Tennessee this weekend. Seattle just has to win out to hold onto an NFC Wild Card spot, and it has matchups against Pittsburgh and Arizona to finish the campaign.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Interior Offensive Line
- Right Tackle
- Safety
- Edge
- Nickelback
Add Now: No one
The Seahawks' biggest weakness right now is on the offensive line, which is a position group where communication and continuity are critical. Barring an injury, they're best off rolling with the guys they have for now.
2024 Free Agency: DL Denico Autry, Tennessee Titans
Leonard Williams is playing out the last year of his contract, and Mario Edwards Jr. is an impending free agent as well. Since the early returns on Dre'Mont Jones have been somewhat underwhelming, the front office might look to add a defensive lineman in free agency.
Autry can step in and take over a starting role or at least give the team another option to mix into the rotation in the trenches. He has a long history of being a quality pass-rusher and run defender with 58.5 career sacks and 80 career tackles for loss, including 11 and 12, respectively, in 14 contests this year heading into Week 16.
2024 NFL Draft: S Kitan Oladapo, Oregon State
Jamal Adams has missed a ton of games since getting traded to Seattle, and his contract has an out in the offseason, per Spotrac. Also, both Julian Love and Quandre Diggs are only signed through 2024, and John Schneider typically likes to get ahead of his team's needs.
So, don't be surprised if Oladapo is on the general manager's radar, especially given his proximity within the Pacific Northwest.
"Oladapo is a long-armed defender who has the ideal size to play safety," B/R's NFL draft scout Cory Giddings said of the 6'1", 217-pound Oregon State product. "He's a physical defender who seeks out contact. He plays with a high motor that takes him all over the field. He plays with good instincts to identify plays and quickly react to what he sees.
"In the run game, he quickly comes downhill, closing ground before striking ball-carriers. Oladapo isn't afraid to front up and drive his legs through contact, often delivering big hits. Though he isn't afraid to get in the mix, there is tightness that shows up in space, where he can overrun tackles or have trouble redirecting with shiftier ball-carriers.
"When playing in the box, Oladapo serves as a great addition in the run game; blitzing from inside and on the edge. His physical strength also comes to light when taking on blocks. He does a good job of discarding receivers and taking on linemen."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Bryce Callahan, LB Azeez Al-Shaair, IOL Zach Frazier)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
30 of 32
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a resounding statement with their 30-12 win over Jacksonville on Sunday. That's four in a row for Tampa Bay, and it rounds out the year with a couple of NFC South matchups against New Orleans and Carolina on its road to trying to win the division.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Guard
- Center
- Cornerback
- Tight End
- Strong Safety
Add Now: No one
Heading into this weekend, the Buccaneers were one of the hottest teams in the NFL. They're in a good position to win the NFC South and don't have many significant injuries at this stage in the game, so there's no reason for them to bring in an outsider.
2024 Free Agency: QB Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mayfield and Tampa Bay have already exceeded expectations this season, as not much was expected of them in the preseason. The quarterback has been playing well with a 63.5 completion percentage, 3,315 yards and 24 touchdowns to eight interceptions heading into Week 16, and he should set a few career highs at this rate.
Especially if the Bucs do end up winning the division, they won't be in a good position to draft a new signal-caller without trading up. Mayfield will be one of the top quarterbacks available in free agency anyway. So, they might as well run it back for at least another year and see if he can keep it going.
2024 NFL Draft: WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU
Mayfield is benefiting from throwing to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, but Evans is an impending free agent and Godwin's contract is up after next season. Tampa should therefore spend one of its top picks on a wide receiver in the 2024 NFL draft.
Thomas Jr. currently ranks 20th on B/R's big board, meaning he should be within range for the Bucs. The LSU product could be a legitimate vertical threat in the Gulf Coast, according to B/R's skill offensive positions scout Derrik Klassen.
"Brian Thomas Jr. is a juiced-up 6'4" receiver with serious potential as a vertical threat and yards-after-the-catch weapon," Klassen said. "His athletic ability shows up as soon as the ball is snapped. He explodes off the line of scrimmage, rarely stuttering his feet and wasting time. Thomas understands how to mix up his releases while always getting upfield and threatening the cornerback.
"From there, Thomas' speed takes over. He can absolutely roll for a 6'4" receiver. The moment Thomas gets shoulder-to-shoulder with a cornerback, he is going to separate from them within the next few steps and never let up. Thomas also shows awesome ball-tracking ability over his shoulder to find the ball downfield smoothly."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Casey Hayward, WR Tee Higgins, S Lathan Ransom)
Tennessee Titans
31 of 32
If anyone had doubts that the Titans were better off switching to Will Levis this season, they likely had them erased by Sunday's game against the Seahawks. Ryan Tannehill stepped in to start for Levis who is dealing with an ankle injury, and the veteran did not look good. Tannehill completed 18 of 26 pass attempts for just 152 yards and was sacked six times.
The good news is the Titans stayed in contention for a top-five pick.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Offensive Tackle
- Edge-Rusher
- Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
- Safety
Add Now: DT Thomas Booker, Philadelphia Eagles
The Titans have to brace themselves for some losses on the interior of the defensive line. Denico Autry is set to hit free agency, and the team already cut Teair Tart.
The Titans could use the final two games to give Thomas Booker an audition. The Texans selected him with a fifth-round pick in 2022 and he played in 10 games as a rookie, but he has remained on the Eagles' practice squad this season.
2024 Free Agency: CB Chidobe Awuzie, Cincinnati Bengals
The Titans have a lot of work to do rebuilding their defense in the 2024 offseason. The unit has usually been solid under Mike Vrabel, but some draft miscues and aging veterans have left them shallow at key positions, including cornerback.
Kristian Fulton and Caleb Farley both had injury concerns coming out of college. Both have missed time this season with injuries. A veteran like Chidobe Awuzie would give them crucial depth and an experienced leader in the position room.
2024 NFL Draft: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame
Rookie quarterback Will Levis has shown that he's worth building around in his first NFL season. He still has to continue making progress, but the Titans can now focus on building around him rather than making moves to find Ryan Tannehill's replacement.
Properly protecting him should be among their top priorities. Right now, the Titans' pass protection is so shoddy that it's hard for Levis to develop good habits.
Drafting Joe Alt would change that. The 6'8", 322-pounder has all the length necessary to play tackle.
"Alt is a special prospect due to his size, athletic ability and polish for a player who will be only 21 years old throughout the duration of his rookie season," B/R NFL draft scout Brandon Thorn wrote in the Notre Dame product's scouting report. "While he isn't the most powerful blocker and will concede some initial ground in his anchor, Alt has virtually every other tool and skill to become an immediate impact starter at left tackle with the runway to continue ascending and cement his status as a foundational piece of a roster."
(Previous Week's Selections: CB Anthony Averett, WR Gabriel Davis, OT JC Latham)
Washington Commanders
32 of 32
For the second week in a row, the Washington Commanders' offense moved the ball much more effectively with Jacoby Brissett at quarterback than Sam Howell, as they nearly came back and pulled off the upset in New York.
Washington will likely be looking for a new signal-caller in the offseason. Luckily, they moved up to third in the NFL draft order to have a better chance at acquiring one.
Biggest Weaknesses:
- Edge
- Linebacker
- Left Guard
- Quarterback
- Center
Add Now: CB Greedy Williams
At this point in the season, all the Commanders have left to play for is to see which young players can contribute in the future. Williams turned 26 earlier this month, so it couldn't hurt to use these next two weeks to see what he can do, especially since Kendall Fuller is an impending free agent.
2024 Free Agency: EDGE Brian Burns, Carolina Panthers
Per Spotrac, Washington is estimated to begin the offseason with nearly $90 million in cap space, so it can afford to go after a big fish in free agency. Burns will be expensive, but adding a 26-year-old who has 44 career sacks in his first 77 games would be a smart investment.
After trading away Montez Sweat and Chase Young at the deadline, the team's defense needs some help on the edge. Getting draft capital for those two and then signing a suitable replacement a few months later would be a great move by Martin Mayhew.
2024 NFL Draft: OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
While offensive tackle might not be a the top of the Commanders' needs list this offseason, Charles Leno is already 32 years old and Andrew Wylie turns 30 in August. Also, drafting Fashanu could be a "best player available" situation, as he currently ranks fifth on B/R's NFL draft big board.
"Fashanu is dialed in as a pass-protector with a keen understanding of snap timing, body positioning and strike timing," B/R offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said via the Penn State product's scouting report. "He also has the movement skills and length to thrive on an island.
"He is quick out of his stance, square in his sets and has a potent inside hand to disrupt the timing of rushers before widening them out and elongating their path to the quarterback around the edge. He smoothly transitions into his anchor and absorbs force to secure the pocket against power moves.
"...Fashanu is quick out of his stance as a run-blocker. He gets to spots and into initial fits on the front and backside of zone runs with the length and play strength to press, pin and seal off defenders when overtaking on combos and on angle-drive blocks.
"While Fashanu can get to landmarks on time and win quickly, he struggles in the second and third phase of run blocks due to his base narrowing early, his pads rising and getting overextended as the rep progresses. This leads to mediocre sustain and finishing skills, falling off blocks and being on the ground too often."
(Previous Week's Selections: S Verone McKinley III, S Jeremy Chinn, TE Bryson Nesbit)
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