2012 NFL Draft Team Needs for Every Team

What areas will each NFL team target for improvement this offseason? Whether it's through the loss of free agents or simply areas where the team wants to get better, each NFL team will build their list of needs and also a list of players to fill those needs.

Where will your favorite team look to get better? As the season comes to a close and the offseason talk heats up, we're breaking down each roster and looking at the biggest areas where help is needed.

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are a team with many needs, but they aren't far from competing for a playoff spot in the AFC East. 

Key Free Agents

Scott Chandler (TE), Demetrius Bell (LT), Steve Johnson (WR)

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: Deciding if Ryan Fitzpatrick is the answer at quarterback must be re-evaluated before his contract is set to renew in early March. Even if the team keeps Fitzpatrick, drafting a young quarterback to develop behind him makes sense.

Wide Receiver: Stevie Johnson is set to become a free agent, and locking him up will be the No. 1 priority of the Bills. Complementary players Donald Jones and David Nelson offer good depth, but a dynamic No. 2 receiver to play alongside Johnson (if re-signed) is key. If Johnson should leave town, this becomes a much bigger need.

Left Tackle: Demetrius Bell has been less than amazing when healthy, improving the chances he will leave as a free agent. Bell was not the answer at left tackle, and the Bills should use an early pick on finding their left tackle of the future.

Outside Linebacker: Getting a pass rush is something Buffalo has struggled to do for years. Shawne Merriman was a bust at outside linebacker and now the team is playing with out-of-position inside 'backers on the edge. The 2012 draft is weak on pass rushers, but free agency could be a way to improve both the strong and weakside linebacker positions.

Cornerback: There is a lot of talent at cornerback with Aaron Williams, Terrence McGee, Leodis McKelvin and Drayton Florence, but the production hasn't matched the potential. If Buffalo is in position to land a player they feel is a starter in Round 2, it should pull the trigger.

Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins have picked up momentum late in the season, but they may have played themselves out of the running for one of the elite quarterbacks in the 2012 NFL draft class. With a new head coach coming to town, the strategy of the Dolphins is up in the air, but their needs remain the same. 

Key Free Agents

Chad Henne (QB), Vernon Carey (RT), Phillip Merling (DE), Kendall Langford (DE)

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: Chad Henne is a free agent and very unlikely to be back after a disappointing season and injury. Matt Moore has played well enough to hold down the job in 2012, but Miami has to draft a young quarterback to become the face and leader of this franchise. 

Right Tackle: Vernon Carey would need to be upgraded over even if he weren't a free agent. Thankfully the team can be rid of him at right tackle. Miami could look at upgrading the offensive line as early as the second round.

Defensive End: Phillip Merling and Kendall Langford were drafted to become the anchors at defensive end in the 3-4 defense. Neither player ever developed into the long-standing force on the edge, and it will be surprising if either is back in 2012 as they are playing behind Randy Starks and Jared Odrick.

Cornerback: Vontae Davis and Sean Smith may think they are the best cornerback duo in the NFL, but they aren't. And it's not even close. Smith has been particularly bad in coverage this season and may be best served with a move to free safety. 

Safety: Yeremiah Bell is exceptional against the run, but miserable against the pass. An upgrade over Bell and his running mate Reshad Jones will help improve the Miami defense going into 2012.

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are once again the top seed in the AFC. No team builds better through the draft and by picking up free agents than the Patriots. Bill Belichick and his team have a tough offseason ahead of them. 

Key Free Agents

Wes Welker (WR), BenJarvus Green-Ellis (RB), Dan Koppen (C), Brian Hoyer (QB) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Replacing Wes Welker would be impossible for the New England Patriots. Look for the team to quickly re-sign Welker once the season ends. Outside of Welker, the Patriots lack targets for Tom Brady. Spending one of their four picks in the first two rounds of the 2012 draft on a wide receiver makes sense.

Defensive Line: It's unknown as of now if the Patriots will revert back to their 3-4 defense in 2012, but it's what I'm expecting. If so, New England needs to load up on 3-4 defensive ends who can anchor the edges. Should New England stay with its 4-3 set, a three-technique defensive tackle to play next to Vince Wilfork is a need.

Outside Linebackers: The play of Andre Carter and Mark Anderson at defensive end has been above expectations, but if New England moves back to the 3-4 defense, both would be lost in the shuffle, or at least less effective. The Patriots are in a great position to go after a Courtney Upshaw or Melvin Ingram in the first round of the draft.

Cornerbacks: Kyle Arrington is tied for the most interceptions in the NFL, but his play has been just OK, as with former Pro Bowler Devin McCourty. The Patriots will look to add depth and potentially starters to the position with their plethora of draft picks.

Safeties: The team cut Brandon Meriweather and James Sanders before the season, putting the defense in the hands of Patrick Chung (who is injured) and even wide receiver Julian Edelman. With two safeties coming out of Alabama this season, where they run the same defense as the Patriots, look for Belichick to target at least a new free safety.

New York Jets

The New York Jets are perennially the second-best team in the AFC East—at least during the regular season. What can the Jets do this offseason to finally steal the division from the New England Patriots? 

Key Free Agents

Plaxico Burress (WR), Jim Leonhard (SS), Sione Pouha (NT), LaDainian Tomlinson (RB), Wayne Hunter (RT) 

Offseason Needs

Outside Linebacker: Chief among the needs of the New York Jets is finding an outside pass-rusher (or two) to attack Tom Brady. Calvin Pace has been a solid player, but he's not someone the offense has to game-plan around. New York could easily go outside linebacker in the first round of the draft.

Defensive Line: Nose tackle Sione Pouha doesn't get much attention from casual fans, but he's one of the best nose tackles in the NFL. Losing him would be devastating. The Jets applied the franchise tag to him last season and must do whatever they can do lock him up. The team also needs help at defensive end. Muhammad Wilkerson, their 2011 first-rounder, has been average. Help is also needed opposite Wilkerson.

Right Tackle: Wayne Hunter has already allowed 11 sacks and 22 pressures this season. It's past time for the Jets to make a move to improve the right tackle position. Vladimir Ducasse was drafted to take over here, but hasn't been trusted yet with the job.

Quarterback: Whether you believe in Mark Sanchez or not, the Jets need to spend a mid-to-late draft pick on a young quarterback to develop either as a backup, replacement or trade value.

Wide Receiver: This was an area seen as a need last season that the Jets did nothing to improve. Plaxico Burress has been unremarkable, outside of one game against Buffalo. The Jets need to get younger and better here.

Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens are on pace to secure the AFC North championship. The team is built for the long haul, but replacing a few key veterans and re-signing free agents will be the focus of the 2012 offseason. 

Key Free Agents

Matt Birk (C), Ben Grubbs (OG), Jarrett Johnson (LB), Ray Rice (RB), Lardarius Webb (CB) 

Offseason Needs

Running Back: Re-signing Ray Rice is the most important move the team will make all summer. Rice is the key to the offense, and he has become one of the best all-around backs in the NFL. Expect a big payday for Rice.

Offensive Tackle: Bryant McKinnie has been good in a pinch, but an upgrade is needed at left tackle. The team could move Michael Oher there and have second-year player Jah Reid start on the right side—if he's ready.

Offensive Guard: Re-signing Grubbs will be the second-biggest move for the Ravens. Grubbs and Marshall Yanda make up one of the best guard duos in the NFL.

Center: Drafting to replace Matt Birk in the middle rounds will be a priority as well.

Outside Linebacker: The Ravens won't want to lose Jarrett Johnson, but they could live without him. Johnson has been brilliant this season, and will command big money on the open market. This would give Sergio Kindle an opportunity to start.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals have moved from cellar-dwellers to potential playoff contenders. What moves will the Bengals need to make to see their playoff hopes realized in 2012? 

Key Free Agents

Cedric Benson (RB), Manny Lawson (LB), Bobbie Williams (OG), Pat Sims (DT) 

Offseason Needs

Running Back: With two first-round picks the Cincinnati Bengals have a great chance to grab a player like Lamar Miller or Chris Polk to take the reins from Cedric Benson, or at worst to complement him in the backfield.

Offensive Guard: Bobbie Williams has been one of the more underrated guards in football, but the 35-year-old guard is both a free agent and injured. It's unlikely he returns. The team could also use an upgrade over left guard Nate Livings.

Cornerback: Leon Hall is still one of the better cornerbacks in the NFL, but he needs help on the other side of the field. Nate Clements and Pacman Jones are stop-gap players. What Cincinnati needs is a true cover man. This is an area Cincinnati could address with one of its two first-round picks.

Middle Linebacker: Rey Maualuga has been very average and struggles to play in space. If Cincinnati finds themselves in a place to upgrade at middle linebacker, don't be shocked if it pulls the trigger.

Strong Safety: Replacing Chris Crocker will immediately improve a secondary that has seen their production drop off without Johnathan Joseph at cornerback. Crocker's replacement could be found in the second round.

Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns didn't make the progress most expected in their first season under Pat Shurmur. What moves must the Browns make to contend in the AFC North? 

Key Free Agents

Peyton Hillis (RB), D'Qwell Jackson (MLB), Mike Adams (FS), Phil Dawson (PK) 

Offseason Needs

Running Back: Peyton Hillis let his contract situation affect his play, and it resulted in a massively disappointing year. Hillis would be a surprise returner to the Cleveland roster in 2012. Using the first of two first-rounders on a running back makes the most sense for Cleveland.

Middle Linebacker: D'Qwell Jackson has had a great first season in the 4-3 defense Cleveland is running. He's the anchor to a strong defense and should be back. If Jackson leaves for greener (and richer) pastures, this becomes a first-round need.

Right Tackle: Tony Pashos shouldn't be starting in the NFL. Cleveland needs a major upgrade at the position.

Wide Receiver: Greg Little has some potential, but outside of him there is no one worth building around at wide receiver. Colt McCoy needs help, and it should come in the form of a first-round wide receiver.

Offensive Guard: Eric Steinbach is solid when healthy on the left side. Getting an improvement over Shawn Lauvao on the right side would be a well-spent draft pick.

Quarterback: Only Mike Holmgren and Pat Shurmur know if Colt McCoy will be the starting quarterback in 2012, but I'm not ready to write him off based on the 2011 season. Still, drafting a developmental quarterback is always a smart move in the late rounds.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers remain one of the best teams in the NFL season after season. Their draft classes are among the highest graded each season. Here's a look at their 2012 needs. 

Key Free Agents

Dennis Dixon (QB), Trai Essex (OT), Tony Hills (OT), Chris Hoke (NT) 

Offseason Needs

Left Tackle: Those watching the Steelers and San Francisco 49ers Monday night witnessed the beating of Max Starks by rookie Aldon Smith. Starks' best days are clearly behind him. Pittsburgh found its right tackle in the second round of the 2011 draft in Max Gilbert. It's time to find his partner in crime on the left side.

Offensive Guard: The trio of Doug Legursky, Ramon Foster and Chris Kemoeatu are among the worst guards in the NFL. The Steelers could use two new offensive guards through free agency and the draft.

Nose Tackle: Casey Hampton's brilliant career is coming to an end, with backup Chris Hoke set to hit the open market this summer. Pittsburgh is set at defensive end, but they need a big tackle to finish out its revitalized defensive line.

Inside Linebacker: James Farrior has been a warrior in the middle of the Pittsburgh defense, but it's time to identify his replacement. Lawrence Timmons has one inside linebacker spot nailed down, but the verdict is still out on Stevenson Sylvester, who will be a free agent in 2013.

Cornerback: The Steelers have Ike Taylor, who is great, and then a group of young players waiting to be developed. Adding another cornerback, in either a best-player available scenario or by picking one up late, would help the Steelers out.

Houston Texans

The Houston Texans have clinched their first AFC South title. Now it's time to build a team that can win another. 

Key Free Agents

Arian Foster (RB), Chris Myers (C), Mario Williams (OLB), Jason Allen (CB) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Finding a true No. 2 wide receiver opposite Andre Johnson would free up Jacoby Jones to be used in various ways and give the team more flexibility in three-receiver sets. Houston could draft a wide receiver as early as Round 1.

Nose Tackle: Shaun Cody has been good, but not great at the nose tackle position. Even so, expect the team to draft a young nose tackle in Round 2 or 3.

Center: Chris Myers is one of the best centers in the game, and re-signing him makes sense for both parties. If Myers doesn't re-sign, getting a new center takes priority.

Left Guard: Wade Smith has been the weak link on a very good offensive line. It's time for Houston to look at his replacement in the middle of the draft.

Cornerback: Adding depth at cornerback is always a smart move, especially with Jason Allen set to hit the open market.

Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts won their first game last week, but they still have plenty of work to do this offseason. 

Key Free Agents

Peyton Manning (QB), Robert Mathis (DE), Reggie Wayne (WR), Pierre Garcon (WR), Ryan Diem (OT), Anthony Gonzalez (WR), Jeff Saturday (C), Mike Pollak (OG), Philip Wheeler (LB) 

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: The Colts have a ton of problem areas, but it all starts with the quarterback. With the No. 1 overall pick all but locked up, Indianapolis can and should use the first overall selection on Andrew Luck.

Wide Receiver: Losing three free agents would cripple any team. The Colts may be looking at rebuilding their wide receiver corps.

Defensive Tackle: The team has swung and missed here often on draft picks. Fili Moala and company aren't worth waiting for. It's time to start fresh here.

Defensive End: Robert Mathis may or may not be back next season, but it will be hard to entice free agents to re-sign on a roster with this many holes. Drafting a pass-rusher hasn't worked in the past (see Hughes, Jerry) but the Colts will be forced to add at the position through the draft.

Cornerback: The Colts can roll with Jerraud Powers at one cornerback position. They'll need to draft at least one more player at this spot.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars are rebuilding, with a new head coach coming to town this winter. Who they hire will alter plans and schemes, but the needs of the team can be seen now. 

Key Free Agents

Rashean Mathis (CB)

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: I don't subscribe to the belief that Blaine Gabbert should be replaced, but the team needs a veteran quarterback to come in and help him learn the game. Drafting a quarterback wouldn't help, but expect a free-agent signing.

Wide Receiver: This has to be the primary need for Jacksonville heading into the offseason. The team has no weapons at wide receiver and must draft one and sign another to start in 2012.

Guard: Will Rackley has been horrible at left guard this season. The Jaguars could look to replace him and/or add depth.

Defensive End: Finding a dominant pass-rusher will be an early-round priority for Jacksonville if it can't lure a free agent to North Florida.

Cornerback: Losing Rashean Mathis will hurt a defense that's really made strides this season. Even if they are able to re-sign Mathis, drafting a cornerback early makes sense.

Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans fought for a playoff berth in 2011, and they're set up to win for the future with Jake Locker at quarterback. Now it's time to build around him. 

Key Free Agents

Cortland Finnegan (CB), William Hayes (DE), Michael Griffin (SS), Jason Jones (DE), Jake Scott (OG), Craig Stevens (TE) 

Offseason Needs

Guard: Jake Scott will likely be shown the door in free agency, which will allow the team to upgrade the interior of its offensive line. Tennessee could go offensive guard as early as the first round of the draft.

Center: Eugene Amano hasn't developed into the player the Titans hoped he could become. He's at the top of the list of players that need replacing.

Defensive End: With both William Hayes and Jason Jones hitting free agency, expect the team to at least add depth here. Fact is, big improvements could be made at defensive end. Tennessee lacks an elite pass-rusher.

Cornerback: Cortland Finnegan believes the team won't ask him back next season. If he leaves, there's a big drop-off at cornerback. Adding depth in the event that Finnegan re-signs is still key.

Tight End: Craig Stevens is a solid player, but he's not a difference maker. Jake Locker needs an athletic tight end to cause defenses nightmares.

Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos have found their franchise quarterback in Tim Tebow, but their 2012 offseason focus has to be on improving the talent around him. On both sides of the ball. 

Key Free Agents

Brady Quinn (QB), Eddie Royal (WR) 

Offseason Needs

Running Back: Willis McGahee has been great this season, and he will enter 2012 as the starter, but depth is needed. Expect the team to move away from former first-rounder Knowshon Moreno.

Center: J.D. Walton ranks as the worst center in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. That about sums it up.

Offensive Guard: You would be hard-pressed to find starting guards worse than Zane Beadles and Chris Kuper. Denver needs major upgrades at guard.

Defensive Tackle: An area the team wanted to improve in 2011, the defensive tackle position could be the Broncos' first-round pick in the 2012 NFL draft.

Cornerback: Champ Bailey has to retire eventually. When he does the team needs an elite cover man ready to step in for him. If Denver doesn't go defensive tackle in Round 1, cornerback makes the most sense.

Kansas City Chiefs

Things are shaky in Kansas City, but head man Scott Pioli has a proven draft record to fall back on. The Chiefs need major help this offseason. 

Key Free Agents

Dwayne Bowe (WR), Brandon Carr (CB), Kyle Orton (QB), Le'Ron McClain (FB), Kelly Gregg (NT) 

Offseason Needs

Right Tackle: Barry Richardson's days as a starting tackle in the NFL should last two more weeks. After that, he's as good as gone from the starting lineup.

Wide Receiver: Losing Dwayne Bowe would be monumental, even with the addition of Jonathan Baldwin and Steve Breaston last summer. Breaston is best in the slot, and Baldwin is still developing. Keeping Bowe has to be the priority for Kansas City.

Nose Tackle: Kelly Gregg is a tough veteran, but it's likely he'll retire. Kansas City likes Jerrell Powe, as do I, but depth is needed here.

Inside Linebacker: Derrick Johnson has my vote as one of the top 3-4 inside linebackers in the league. The players next to him, though, have been a revolving door. Adding an athletic inside linebacker early is a need.

Quarterback: If Kyle Orton doesn't re-sign, and there's no reason to think he will, the Chiefs need to find a quality backup to Matt Cassel. Ricky Stanzi has potential, but it's telling that the team didn't turn to him when the wheels fell off this season.

Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders are close to contending, but they'll have to rebuild their roster without the majority of their draft picks after multiple trades. 

Key Free Agents

Michael Bush (RB), Jason Campbell (QB), Jarvis Moss (DE), Marcel Reece (FB) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Anyone hanging on to hopes of Darrius Heyward-Bey living up to his draft stock should now give up. The Raiders sorely lack an elite threat at wide receiver. 

Right Tackle: Possibly the weakest position on the team, losing Khalif Barnes will actually help the Raiders. A replacement is needed, possibly with the team's first draft pick.

Right Guard: Like the situation at right tackle, an upgrade is needed here immediately. The Raiders will likely have to address the position through free agency.

Cornerback: Replacing Nnamdi Asomugha hasn't been easy, but the team has done an admirable job. Depth and development players are needed here.

Defensive End: Lamarr Houston has turned into a great pickup for the Raiders, but they need better play opposite of him. Jarvis Moss may be worth keeping for depth, but finding another defensive end would be key.

San Diego Chargers

The San Diego Chargers are always close to contending, but with free agency potentially hurting the team again this season, what moves must they make? 

Key Free Agents

Patrick Crayton (WR), Antonio Garay (NT), Nick Hardwick (C), Jacob Hester (FB), Vincent Jackson (WR), Randy McMichael (TE), Bob Sanders (SS), Mike Tolbert (FB) 

Offseason Needs

Left Tackle: Jared Gaither has played very well since being picked up off the street and may earn himself the starting job next season. Longtime starter Marcus McNeill has serious injury issues that will likely force his retirement.

Right Tackle: Jeromey Clary really needs to go. San Diego could look at tackle in Round 1, either for the left or right.

Wide Receiver: It seems like Vincent Jackson has been unhappy with his contract in San Diego for years, and that's because he has been. Jackson should finally get a chance to test the open market. There is a solid chance he will price himself out of San Diego.

Inside Linebacker: Age is the issue here, where Takeo Spikes is holding down the fort. Jonas Mouton has some potential, but is on IR. Drafting at least one inside linebacker would be smart.

Center: If the team cannot re-sign Hardwick, a bad offensive line just got a lot worse. Keeping Hardwick is the key.

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys are once again sitting atop the NFC East. How can they turn a slim margin into a dominant run at the top this offseason? 

Key Free Agents

Martellus Bennett (TE), Keith Brooking (ILB), Bradie James (ILB), Mat McBriar (P), Anthony Spencer (OLB) 

Offseason Needs

Inside Linebacker: Sean Lee has become a true star on defense, but replacing his running mate at inside linebacker will be a focus for Dallas this offseason. Bruce Carter was drafted to fill this role, but he's yet to make an impact in limited time. 

Outside Linebacker: DeMarcus Ware is the game's best outside linebacker. Dallas hasn't been able to find a complementary outside linebacker to line up opposite him. With Anthony Spencer hitting free agency, the Cowboys will be pressed into action. This could be the team's first-round choice.

Tight End: Jason Witten is as great as ever, but finding depth at tight end will be needed if Martellus Bennett leaves through free agency.

Cornerback: Much has been made about Mike Jenkins and Terence Newman not fitting Rob Ryan's defense. If Ryan is back next season, the Cowboys could look to make major changes to their cornerbacks.

Safety: The Cowboys could look to upgrade both safety positions this offseason, depending on if Rob Ryan is back with the team at defensive coordinator.

New York Giants

The New York Giants are close to taking control of the NFC East, but they'll need to re-sign some of their own players and make improvements to their lines to compete in 2012. 

Key Free Agents

Jake Ballard (TE), Jonathan Goff (LB), Mario Manningham (WR), Kareem McKenzie (OT), Aaron Ross (CB), Terrell Thomas (CB) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Mario Manningham is a solid option at wide receiver, but he's become a secondary option behind Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. The team would like to keep Manningham, as they often run three-wide sets, but it will depend on his asking price.

Left Tackle: The offensive line has been a mess for the Giants. The front office has a "best player available" approach to the draft, but Eli Manning will be hoping a left tackle is the best player available when their pick comes up.

Right Tackle: Just like the need on the left side, New York is in bad shape at right tackle. Kareem McKenzie should not be re-signed. 

Cornerback: Losing Aaron Ross and Terrell Thomas will be manageable due to the presence of Corey Webster and Prince Amukamara, but keeping even one would prevent New York from having to address this area in the offseason.

Inside Linebacker: The Giants could easily add players at both inside and outside linebacker, but look for them to focus on adding another inside linebacker early in the draft.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles failed to live up to expectations this season. What moves must the front office make to get the team back to the playoffs? 

Key Free Agents

Victor Abiamiri (DE), DeSean Jackson (WR), Trevor Laws (DT), Owen Schmitt (FB) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Losing DeSean Jackson would hurt, but the locker room may be a better place without him. If Jackson is allowed to leave, and my gut instinct says he will be, wide receiver becomes a need early in the draft for Philadelphia.

Inside Linebacker: The team overlooked the linebacker position last summer, resulting in a defense that couldn't stop the run. Casey Matthews has some potential, but drafting a stud middle linebacker early would be a great move. 

Outside Linebacker: Much like the inside linebacker situation, Philadelphia put too much hope in middle and late-round draft picks at linebacker. The chance to draft an elite outside linebacker would be too good to pass.

Safety: Same story, different chapter. Philadelphia put its hopes into young safeties who weren't ready to start. The team could add free agents to step in to featured roles.

Center: Jason Kelce was pressed into action too soon, but has shown he's not ready to be an NFL starter just yet. If Philadelphia can add a free-agent center, expect them to do so.

Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins started the 2011 season hot, but faded down the stretch. Building on offense, especially at the skill positions, will be the focus of the offseason. 

Key Free Agents

Fred Davis (TE), Tim Hightower (RB), LaRon Landry (S), Rocky McIntosh (ILB), Will Montgomery (C) 

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: The Rex Grossman/John Beck experiment didn't work. With a better quarterback in place, this is a playoff contender. Expect Washington to draft a quarterback very early in the 2012 draft.

Tight End: Mike Shanahan's offense in Washington hasn't featured the tight end as much, but they still don't want to lose Fred Davis. If Davis leaves, drafting an athletic tight end becomes even more of a priority.

Right Guard: Will Montgomery has a strong chance to leave town, but Washington could stand to upgrade over him either way.

Wide Receiver: The play of the wide receivers in Washington has been lackluster, but some of that blame falls on the quarterbacks. If Washington is in place to grab a top-tier wide receiver through free agency or the draft, they could use the talent.

Safety: If LaRon Landry chooses to leave town, the Redskins will need to make major upgrades through the draft and free agency. Landry is one of the better young players on the defense and will be tough to replace.

Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears regressed in 2011, largely due to injuries. The team is poised for a deep playoff run in 2012...if they can re-sign Matt Forte. 

Key Free Agents

Matt Forte (RB), Kellen Davis (TE), Caleb Hanie (QB), Brandon Meriweather (S), Craig Steltz (S) 

Offseason Needs

Running Back: The fact that Matt Forte hasn't been re-signed is mind-boggling. He's the team's best offensive player and the feature back that most NFL teams would love to have. If Forte is allowed to test the open market, he could price himself out of Chicago.

Wide Receiver: Earl Bennett has potential and good chemistry with Jay Cutler, but he's rarely healthy and has yet to emerge as a true No. 1 wide receiver. If a player like Michael Floyd falls to the Bears in Round 1, he would be a great pick.

Left Tackle: J'Marcus Webb hasn't been worthwhile at left tackle. Chicago added right tackle Gabe Carimi last year; now it's time to get a left tackle.

Outside Linebacker: You never know if Lance Briggs is happy with his contract or not. Briggs could force the Bears to move him this summer. The team would also like to upgrade opposite Briggs.

Safety: Losing two safeties to free agency would be a major setback for Chicago. Look for the team to draft accordingly once the future of Meriweather and Steltz is known.

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions have improved to the point of being a playoff team. Now it's time to build a team that can contend with the Green Bay Packers year in and year out. 

Key Free Agents

Cliff Avril (DE), Bobby Carpenter (LB), Shaun Hill (QB), Kevin Smith (RB), Eric Wright (CB), Stephen Tulloch (LB) 

Offseason Needs

Left Tackle: Jeff Backus has been a great player, but his days are numbered. Backus may hang on for another season, but Detroit should have a plan in place to find his replacement. This could be a first-round need.

Outside Linebacker: Detroit has rebuilt its defense through free agency and the draft, but it needs upgrades at outside linebacker. Justin Durant has been good, but DeAndre Levy could be moved to a backup position.

Cornerback: Eric Wright is a player the team should consider re-signing, but outside of him the Lions will need to get much better at cornerback to compete with the Green Bay Packers. Chris Houston and Aaron Berry are worth building around.

Running Back: Mikel Leshoure and Jahvid Best were supposed to be a dynamic one-two duo at running back. Best is troubled with concussions, while Leshoure's ankle injury is serious. Don't be surprised to see a mid-round running back added.

Center: Dominic Raiola's career is nearing the end. Detroit could look to upgrade at center through the draft or free agency.

Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers are undoubtedly the best team in the NFL this season. After winning a Super Bowl last season, how can Green Bay reload for the long run? 

Key Free Agents

Jermichael Finley (TE), Matt Flynn (QB), Ryan Grant (RB), Patrick Lee (CB), Erik Walden (LB) 

Offseason Needs

Running Back: Ryan Grant may re-sign with the team, but there's the off chance he leaves or isn't wanted back. Alex Green hasn't shown anything in his rookie season, and James Starks is a complementary back only.

Outside Linebacker: Clay Matthews has one side locked down, but the team would love to find better production on the opposite side.

Defensive End: Finding defensive ends who can set the edge in the 3-4 and pressure the offensive line is a key for Green Bay's offseason.

Tight End: If Jermichael Finley leaves, albeit unlikely, Green Bay could be forced to draft a tight end much earlier than they'd like to.

Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers is the best in the game, but losing his backup Matt Flynn to free agency will push Green Bay into drafting another quarterback to develop behind Rodgers.

Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings are in the midst of rebuilding the roster, but they have strong points with Christian Ponder and Adrian Peterson on offense and with Jared Allen and Chad Greenway on defense. Now it is time to fill in the holes. 

Key Free Agents

Erin Henderson (LB), E.J. Henderson (LB), Jim Kleinsasser (TE), Visanthe Shiancoe (TE) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Percy Harvin is electric, but the team needs to build back the talent around him. Wide receiver could be a second- or third-round need.

Left Tackle: Charlie Johnson is among the worst left tackles in the NFL. If Minnesota lands a high enough pick, it'll make Matt Kalil its new cornerstone left tackle.

Cornerback: The Vikings have major needs at cornerback. Depending on where they end up in the draft order, cornerback could be their first-round pick.

Middle Linebacker: With E.J. Henderson set to hit free agency, it's possible the Vikings will be looking to draft a new middle linebacker.

Tight End: The Vikings' top two tight ends are free agents, but they still have 2011 draftee Kyle Rudolph. Expect them to add another tight end middle-to-late in the draft.

Atlanta Falcons

Thomas Dimitroff has built a contender in Atlanta. The Falcons spend wisely, making splashes in free agency and the draft. With no first-round pick after the Julio Jones deal, Dimitroff has his hands full. The Falcons are also looking at an offseason with a number of key free agents to re-sign. 

Key Free Agents

John Abraham (DE), Kroy Biermann (DE), Thomas DeCoud (FS), Harry Douglas (WR), Brent Grimes (CB), Curtis Lofton (LB), Todd McClure (C), James Sanders (SS), Jason Snelling (RB), Eric Weems (WR) 

Offseason Needs

Defensive End: John Abraham may be back next season, but his future is limited. The Falcons have no first-round pick, but could make defensive end a second-round need.

Guard: The loss of Harvey Dahl has hurt the team. Garrett Reynolds and Joe Hawley have been average at best. Both are young and could develop, but a chance to upgrade the position will be welcome.

Free Safety: It will be surprising if Thomas DeCoud leaves town, but the team could try to replace him with a more talented player through free agency.

Running Back: Michael Turner has been brilliant, but Atlanta toyed with the idea of adding a back last season to help ease the load on its premier back. If Jason Snelling leaves, this becomes a bigger need.

Wide Receiver: The Falcons are set with Roddy White and Julio Jones but need to re-sign Harry Douglas and Eric Weems or consider drafting slot receivers.

Carolina Panthers

Carolina hit the jackpot with 2011 first-rounder Cam Newton. Now the team must continue building up the talent around him through the 2012 offseason. 

Key Free Agents

Dan Connor (LB), Legedu Naanee (WR) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Steve Smith has had an All-Pro season, but it's time to start adding players around the veteran receiver. Carolina would be a great landing spot for offensive free agents wanting to play alongside Cam Newton.

Left Guard: The Panthers could really stand to add at both guard spots, but left guard Travelle Wharton is by far the worse of the two starters.

Defensive Tackle: The Panthers used two draft picks on defensive tackles last season, but neither player has panned out. This is an area where a free-agent pickup could be huge.

Outside Linebacker: The team will get Jon Beason and Thomas Davis back from injury next season, barring any setbacks, but would be wise to draft for depth here.

Cornerback: Chris Gamble has improved greatly this season; he's a legitimate No. 1 cornerback. The Panthers could look to draft their second cornerback as early as the first round.

New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints have been a playoff contender since signing Drew Brees in 2006. Now Brees is a free agent, and the Saints have to find a way to lock him up long term. The entire offseason hinges on this.

Key Free Agents

Drew Brees (QB), Marques Colston (WR), Robert Meachem (WR), Carl Nicks (OG), Shaun Rogers (DT)

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: Obviously signing Drew Brees is the No. 1 priority for the Saints. If talks break down, albeit unlikely, losing Brees would be devastating.

Wide Receiver: With two of their best receivers set to hit the market, and with the uncertainty surrounding Brees' contract, keeping Colston and Meachem may be tough to do unless both players are willing to wait until Brees has signed.

Offensive Guard: Carl Nicks hasn't been as dominant this season, but he's still a top guard. Keeping him long-term will be a need for the Saints, but affording him may be impossible with the other contracts they need to redo.

Defensive Tackle: Shaun Rogers probably won't be back next season. The Saints will use a draft pick on a defensive tackle, but it's worth noting they don't have a first-rounder after trading up for Mark Ingram.

Outside Linebacker: Scott Shanle, Jo-Lonn Dunbar and Jonathan Casillas have struggled as a trio at outside linebacker. Finding more speed, and better all-around play, is a need.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay took a nose dive this season, dropping from 10 wins in 2011 to the bottom of the NFC South this season. It's time to rebuild this roster.

Key Free Agents

Ronde Barber (CB), Michael Bennett (DE), LeGarrette Blount (RB), Jeremy Zuttah (OG)

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: It's not time to give up on Josh Freeman at quarterback, but having a good Plan B would be wise. Josh Johnson is set to leave as a free agent and creates a hole at the position.

Right Tackle: Can we officially agree that Jeremy Trueblood is trash as a starter? Good. Moving on, this could be an area the Buccaneers address in Round 1.

Offensive Guard: Davin Joseph remains overrated and overpaid. Jeremy Zuttah has some potential, but he's a free agent and may not be back next season.

Outside Linebacker: Quincy Black was drastically overpaid last season. Black and Geno Hayes have been weak all season, allowing too many big plays and making their tackles too far downfield.

Cornerback: If Tampa doesn't look at offensive tackle in the first round, it'll be drafting Ronde Barber's replacement. It's also possible Aqib Talib will be let go, depending on how his offseason legal issues are resolved.

Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals will look to build on their late-season momentum this offseason. Plenty of needs exist, but deciding on a starting quarterback is the most important decision for the team this summer. 

Key Free Agents

Levi Brown (OT), Calais Campbell (DE), Early Doucet (WR), Deuce Lutui (OG), Richard Marshall (CB) 

Offseason Needs

Left Tackle: The Cardinals have to use their first-round pick on a left tackle. Levi Brown has been a massive bust.

Wide Receiver: Larry Fitzgerald is brilliant, but he needs a true No. 2 receiver helping him out. Early Doucet is solid in the slot, but he's not drawing attention from Fitzgerald. This could be an earlier pick than many would think.

Defensive End: Losing Calais Campbell would be tough to overcome. He's quickly becoming one of the better 3-4 defensive ends in the NFL.

Cornerback: Patrick Peterson and A.J. Jefferson are a decent young duo worth watching, but if help can come from free agency or an early draft pick, the Cardinals would be smart to pull the trigger.

Outside Linebacker: Joey Porter's season is over due to injury, and it's very likely his career is over too. Porter didn't produce as expected in Arizona, but replacing him is still a must for the team this offseason.

San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers are the kings of the NFC West and serious Super Bowl contenders under Jim Harbaugh. Making key moves this offseason will put the team in place to sustain their early success. 

Key Free Agents

Alex Smith (QB), Ted Ginn (WR), Braylon Edwards (WR), Dashon Goldson (FS), Larry Grant (ILB), Josh Morgan (WR), Carlos Rogers (CB) 

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: It sounds like the 49ers want to re-sign Alex Smith to a long-term deal, as Harbaugh believes he is the answer at quarterback. If Smith loses his mind and leaves San Francisco, the team would need to make a play for a veteran quarterback while Colin Kaepernick develops.

Wide Receiver: Three of the team's best receivers enter free agency, with both Braylon Edwards and Josh Morgan unlikely to be asked back. Ted Ginn could and should return, but this is an area the team will need to address early on.

Cornerback: Carlos Rogers has been a top-five free-agent signing this season. The team will want to offer him a three- to four-year deal this summer and hope he's interested in returning. Drafting for depth and more talent opposite Rogers could be an early need.

Outside Linebacker: Aldon Smith has the look of an All-Pro; he has one side locked down. Getting more pressure opposite Smith could be an improvement the team wants to make this offseason. If a good pass-rusher falls in the draft, the 49ers could afford to pick them up.

Free Safety: Dashon Goldson hasn't had a good year. It will be surprising if the team makes him an offer to come back as a starter.

Seattle Seahawks

Pete Carroll has done a great job building up a strong defense and run game in Seattle. The 2012 offseason will be about finding their quarterback of the future and re-signing key free agents. 

Key Free Agents

Red Bryant (DE), John Carlson (TE), David Hawthorne (LB), Marshawn Lynch (RB), Marcus Trufant (CB) 

Offseason Needs

Quarterback: There is a small minority who think Tarvaris Jackson is the future at quarterback, and then there are the realists who see this team badly needs a quarterback. If Seattle is in position to draft a quarterback in the first round, it'll do so and bypass other needs.

Running Back: Re-signing Marshawn Lynch should be on the docket for this offseason, but it comes with a risk due to his age and the beatings he takes running the ball. Signing Lynch is good, but drafting a true complementary back would be as well.

Defensive End: Red Bryant is the most important player to the Seahawks' front seven. Finding a way to re-sign him will be key. The team could also look to draft a speed rusher at defensive end in the middle rounds of the draft.

Guard: It's unlikely the team moves on from veteran Robert Gallery or rookie John Moffitt, but both could be upgraded over. Seattle should draft for depth and development at guard.

St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams are further back in their rebuilding than most expected. Big injuries and poor production haunted the team in 2011. What will it take to get back on the upswing? 

Key Free Agents

Jacob Bell (OG), Brandon Lloyd (WR) 

Offseason Needs

Wide Receiver: Brandon Lloyd is the only wide receiver on the roster worth his pay check, and he's a free agent after this season. Keeping Lloyd will aid the growth of Sam Bradford immensely. So will drafting at least one wide receiver early in the draft.

Offensive Guard: Jacob Bell has been the cause of much frustration in St. Louis. Allowing him to walk in free agency should be met with cheers from the quarterbacks.

Defensive Tackle: The team is set at defensive end with Chris Long and Robert Quinn, but adding beef in the middle of the line could be a need as early as the second round.

Outside Linebacker: The Rams' defense lacks speed, and part of that problem is at outside linebacker. Upgrading from Brady Poppinga and continuing to develop Chris Chamberlain would be a great start at improving the defense.

Cornerback: Ron Bartell looks like a future star, but he lost most of this season to injury and that could stall his development. Adding a talented cornerback through the draft, in Rounds 2 or 3, would be smart.