As the NFL offseason progresses and training camps approach, several NFC teams are targeting critical roster improvements to boost their playoff chances. Among the most pressing priorities across the league is protection for Baker Mayfield, a key factor the Cleveland Browns must address urgently to safeguard their franchise quarterback. Other contenders in the NFC are focusing on bolstering their secondary and enhancing pass-rush capabilities, hoping these upgrades will position them for a successful season.
Challenges and Potential Across NFC North Teams
The NFC North division presents a diverse set of roster needs. The Chicago Bears have emerged as one of the offseason’s most improved teams, yet their safety position remains a point of vulnerability. With veterans Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker as starters and limited depth behind them, the Bears aim to deepen their safety corps.
Detroit Lions are working to rebuild their offensive line following the loss of key veterans Kevin Zeitler and Frank Ragnow. Despite drafting guard Tate Ratledge, they may still pursue additional reinforcements. On defense, Detroit is reconsidering its edge-rushing options after parting ways with Za’Darius Smith and seeing Aidan Hutchinson return from injury. Marcus Davenport and Josh Paschal’s inconsistent health also complicate the pass-rush situation.
Green Bay Packers are looking at cornerback as their biggest question mark this offseason. The team signed Nate Hobbs to provide versatility, but with departures of Jaire Alexander and Eric Stokes, plus rookies Carrington Valentine and Keisean Nixon competing for significant roles, there is uncertainty in the secondary. Pass-rushing talent with former first-round picks is present but demands improved performance to meet the team’s ambitions.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings face similar dilemmas at safety, linebacker, and cornerback. With 36-year-old Harrison Smith aging and Camryn Bynum joining the Indianapolis Colts, the Vikings must find starters that can contribute immediately, particularly as optimism surrounds Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers in the cornerback slot.
Key Position Needs Shaping NFC South Strategies
The NFC South highlights pivotal concerns, particularly for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Their offensive tackle depth came under scrutiny when All-Pro Tristan Wirfs faced the prospect of missing games. Although Luke Goedeke shows promise at right tackle, reserves lack proven experience, pushing Tampa Bay to explore trades or free agents to maintain offensive line stability. Linebacker succession also remains an unresolved issue despite re-signing veteran Lavonte David.
For the Atlanta Falcons, the emphasis landed on cornerback after a significant investment in their pass rush, including drafting Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. The team now seeks to solidify the secondary opposite A.J. Terrell while also considering improvements at wide receiver.
The Carolina Panthers’ most glaring weakness remains cornerback, despite extending Jaycee Horn. Their linebacker group is largely unproven, leaving the coaching staff cautious but willing to grant opportunities for retention. Their double pick on edge rushers Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen on draft Day 2 signals focus on enhancing pass rush depth.
New Orleans Saints must rebuild their cornerback room following key departures including Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo. Current young players such as Kool-Aid McKinstry and Alontae Taylor remain as the foundation, but there is limited veteran backup. The Saints are also banking on rookie quarterbacks Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler as part of a youth movement at the position.
Addressing Defensive and Offensive Weaknesses in the NFC East
The Washington Commanders prioritized offensive tackle and cornerback early in the draft, acquiring Laremy Tunsil via trade to address line protection. Defensively, they possess multiple strong defensive ends focused on run defense but lack explosive edge rushers, a gap that might deepen as veteran Bobby Wagner’s career progresses.
For the Dallas Cowboys, the offensive line is expected to be restored with third first-round pick Tyler Booker, but the secondary remains a pressing concern. The team added cornerback Kaiir Elam, obtained via trade, and safety Shavon Revel Jr. Despite these moves, injuries and inconsistency have created significant space for long-term safety solutions.
The Philadelphia Eagles consider their roster mostly sound, but cornerback depth remains thin. While Quinyon Mitchell’s addition allowed parting with Darius Slay, the secondary lacks proven starters besides Kelee Ringo, Adoree’ Jackson, and Eli Ricks. Tight end could become a priority depending on the fate of Dallas Goedert, as the team navigates offseason free agent losses, such as Milton Williams and Mekhi Becton.
The New York Giants have committed to quarterback Jaxson Dart following a draft-day trade but remain uncertain about their offensive line beyond Andrew Thomas and possibly John Michael Schmitz. Long-term plans for the line remain unclear, with linebacker and cornerback also needing attention for sustained competitiveness.
NFC West Positions Demanding Urgent Attention
The San Francisco 49ers have lost key interior offensive linemen Aaron Banks and Jaylon Moore in free agency, leaving a unit already flagged for weakness untouched this offseason. Without significant changes, this area remains a concern for an offense that otherwise manages to function efficiently.
The Arizona Cardinals face challenges with replacement-level linebackers and a similarly needing offensive line, reflecting coach Jonathan Gannon’s recent focus and background on the defensive side.
The Los Angeles Rams continue to seek answers at cornerback. After relying on Darious Williams and engaging in unsuccessful trade talks surrounding Jalen Ramsey, the team’s secondary lacks elite talent and depth to protect against top receivers.
The Seattle Seahawks anticipate potential challenges with their wide receivers, as both Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling may not meet expectations alongside emerging star Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Cornerback questions also loom, with Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen proving capable, but the starting spot remains contested between Josh Jobe and Nehemiah Pritchett.
Overall Outlook: Protection for Baker Mayfield and Other Critical Priorities
Among the NFC and NFL teams, the Cleveland Browns’ need for protection for Baker Mayfield stands out as urgent. Mayfield’s safety and mobility depend heavily on an upgraded offensive line to preserve his health and maximize offensive effectiveness. The broader NFC landscape is animated by similar core priorities—strengthening secondaries, securing pass rushers, and shoring up offensive lines.
With the preseason kickoff at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on July 31 in Canton, Ohio, and teams beginning to report to camp starting mid-July, these roster questions will soon be put to the test. Veteran free agents like Keenan Allen, Amari Cooper, Marcus Williams, and Za’Darius Smith remain available, potentially providing teams with the missing pieces needed for a Super Bowl run.
Finding effective upgrades in these key positions could determine which NFC contenders make deep postseason pushes and which teams must reset for the following season. The investment in protection for Baker Mayfield, coupled with defensive reinforcements in the secondary and pass rush, could tip the balance for several franchises as the 2024 NFL season unfolds.