NFL Team Needs: Prioritizing Every Roster’s Biggest Weaknesses Before Week 11
NFL Team Needs: Prioritizing Every Roster’s Biggest Weaknesses Before Week 110 of 32
Mario Hommes/DeFodi Images via Getty Images
One-score games dominated Week 10 NFL action. The disparity between the league’s best and worst teams mostly blurred in yet another topsy-turvy slate of football. But you are what your record says you are, and with the trade deadline passed and multiple teams four-or-worse games off .500, attention is starting to turn to the offseason.
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 2025 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.
Further analysis of every NFL roster will publish each Monday throughout the regular season.
Arizona Cardinals1 of 32
Cardinals QB Kyler MurrayChris Coduto/Getty Images
The Arizona Cardinals scored their fourth consecutive win by rolling the New York Jets 31-6 on Sunday. With a strong running game, a steadily improving defense and some of the best quarterback play of Kyler Murray’s career, Arizona suddenly looks like a very dangerous team.
The Cardinals, who remain atop the NFC West, should continue looking for ways to strengthen their roster now that the trade deadline has passed. With head coach Jonathan Gannon’s second season shaping up to be a success, they should be eyeing long-term building blocks in the offseason.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Defensive TackleCornerbackEdge-RusherGuardRight TackleMove to Make Now: Sign DE Tarron Jackson
Last week’s trade for Barron Browning helped to boost Arizona’s pass rush. But the Cardinals could still use additional depth on the defensive line, both to aid the pass rush and bolster a middling run defense.
With the trade market closed and few free agents available, Arizona should consider signing Tarron Jackson from the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad.
Jackson, who signed with Philadelphia late last week, was a 2021 sixth-round pick who appeared in all 17 games for the Eagles as a rookie. He played just 23 percent of the defensive snaps that season but recorded 18 tackles, a sack and nine quarterback pressures. His experience under Jonathan Gannon should help make for an easy transition.
2025 Free Agency: CB D.J. Reed, New York Jets
The defense has started to make strides in its second year under Gannon. However, Arizona should be eager to upgrade its secondary in the offseason. With $103.4 million in projected 2025 cap space, the Cardinals can afford to chase top players at premium positions.
New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed—the fifth-ranked player on Bleacher Report’s free agent big board—would be an ideal target. While often overshadowed by Sauce Gardner, Reed has been a high-level starter for New York since arriving in 2022 free agency.
At 28 years old, Reed should have several prime playing years ahead of him. Defensive tackles like B.J. Hill and Sebastian Joseph-Day should also be on Arizona’s radar.
2025 NFL Draft: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M
Landing a franchise-caliber defensive tackle, like Michigan’s Mason Graham, in the draft would make sense for the Cardinals. If Arizona keeps trending toward the bottom of Round 1, however, that may prove difficult.
The B/R Scouting Department paired Arizona with Texas A&M edge-rusher Nic Scourton in its latest mock draft, and it’s impossible to argue with the assessment:
“Scourton would be perfect for Jonathan Gannon’s defensive scheme. The Purdue transfer has the potential to be a complete pass-rusher. …The 6’4″, 285-pound Scourton working alongside the 6’5″, 285-pound Darius Robinson in sub-packages has the potential to do significant damage against opposing schemes.”
Robinson, Arizona’s second-round pick, remains sidelined with a calf injury but will, ideally, be a foundational piece of the defense moving forward. Scourton could be the same.
Atlanta Falcons2 of 32
Falcons RB Bijan RobinsonJonathan Bachman/Getty Images
Not landing a quality pass-rusher at the trade deadline is already looking like a mistake by the Atlanta Falcons. While miscues (and missed kicks) certainly played a role in Sunday’s 20-17 loss to the New Orleans Saints, poor defense played its part.
Atlanta allowed New Orleans to jump out to a 17-7 halftime lead and failed to record a single sack on Derek Carr—bringing their 2024 total to nine sacks in 10 games. The Falcons have the foundation of a very potent offense, but there’s work to do on the other side of the ball, now and in the looming offseason.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Edge-RusherNickelbackCenterDefensive TackleLinebackerMove to Make Now: Sign Edge Shaq Lawson
Matthew Judon has been a disappointment for the Falcons. Heading into this weekend, he has recorded just 13 pressures on 201 pass-rush snaps according to Pro Football Focus, which comes out to about a 6.5 percent pressure rate. That is a major reason why edge-rusher is the team’s biggest weakness right now.
Atlanta should consider Shaq Lawson, who was released from the Carolina Panthers practice squad in late October. Last season, Lawson appeared in 16 games with the Buffalo Bills and recorded one sack and 10 quarterback pressures.
Adding him wouldn’t solve the defense’s pass-rush issues alone, but Lawson could at least be another option to turn to for the rest of the season.
2025 Free Agency: IOL Nick Gates, Philadelphia Eagles
Starting center Drew Dalman’s contract is about to expire and Elijah Wilkinson and Matt Hennessy are also impending free agents, so the Falcons will likely be looking for some interior offensive line help this offseason.
The problem is the organization is currently projected to have just under $11.6 million of cap space available in free agency, per Over The Cap. So, the organization will need to target cheaper veterans on the open market. Gates would be a good pickup since he has experience playing four out of five offensive line positions.
2025 NFL Draft: CB Trey Amos, Alabama
Mike Hughes has been playing well this year, but that could make it difficult for Terry Fontenot to re-sign the seven-year pro since he’s going to be a free agent in the offseason. So, expect Fontenot to do a deep dive into this year’s cornerback class and the Alabama product is someone to keep an eye on.
“Amos is a physical and fluid cornerback prospect with the size, strength, and athleticism to compete at the next level,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings said.
“Known for his strong press technique and ability to match up against bigger receivers, Amos has the skill set to develop into a versatile corner capable of playing both man and zone coverage schemes.
“…Amos projects as a mid-round pick with the potential to develop into a versatile starter. His combination of size, athleticism, and ball skills makes him an intriguing prospect, though improving his tackling consistency and refining his technique in deep coverage will be key to his success.”
Baltimore Ravens3 of 32
Lamar JacksonCooper Neill/Getty Images
The Ravens defense struggled on Thursday Night Football giving up 470 total yards, including 421 through the air. Joe Burrow torched the Ravens secondary and they didn’t have an answer for Ja’Marr Chase who had 11 catches for 264 yards and three touchdowns.
It didn’t matter.
The Ravens offense showed just how devastatingly efficient it can be with another near-perfect performance from Lamar Jackson. He went 25-of-33 for 290 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions in a game that proved he’s capable of playing from behind and winning games as a passer. Another MVP for him and a deep playoff run should be the objective moving forward.
Biggest Weaknesses:
CornerbackInterior Offensive LineWide ReceiverOffensive TackleEdge-RusherMove to Make Now: Get WR Tylan Wallace More Involved
There isn’t much to argue with about the Ravens offense, but it’s become clear they are going to have to outscore people to win in the playoffs. The decision to trade for Diontae Johnson at the trade deadline when they had needs on defense indicated the team understood this reality.
It wasn’t Johnson that impressed on Thursday night, though. That was Tylan Wallace. According to PFF, Wallace was only on the field for five receiving snaps, but he had 115 receiving yards. Wallace should have an opportunity to come alongside Mark Andrews, Zay Flowers and Isaiah Likely as targets in this offense.
2025 Free Agency: CB Charvarius Ward, San Francisco 49ers
This would admittedly be difficult to swing with the Ravens cap picture. Ward is going to be 29 if he this the open market in the offseason, but he’s good enough that he should still command a sizable two or three-year contract. However, stretching their funds to create a trio of Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins and Ward on the outside could push the Ravens over the top to become the Super Bowl favorite next season.
As it stands, the Ravens secondary, including impending free agent Brandon Stephens are one of few liabilities who could wind up costing Baltimore when it counts the most. Adding another solid cornerback to the roster would make an outright Super Bowl favorite.
2025 NFL Draft: OT Charles Grant, William & Mary
The Ravens have done a nice job of breaking in three new starters on the offensive line this season, but they still need to collect talent up front. Ronnie Stanley is set to become a free agent in the offseason and he’s getting older. Re-signing him is still probably the best path forward, but drafting a project who could eventually become the left tackle would be a good use of resources.
Buffalo Bills4 of 32
Mack HollinsAndy Lyons/Getty Images
Josh Allen can cover for a lot of shortcomings. Even his own. Allen threw two interceptions to bring his season total to four, but his legs helped make up for it in a 30-20 win over the Colts. Allen’s interceptions shouldn’t be all that concerning. He’s kept the ball out of harm’s way for most of the season and he didn’t have Keon Coleman or Amari Cooper.
Once he gets both of them back, Buffalo should be firing on all cylinders. That’s a scary thought for teams in the path of the 8-2 Bills.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Edge-RusherCornerbackLinebackerInterior Defensive LineSafetyMove to Make Now: Poach LB Kwon Alexander from Denver Broncos’s Practice Squad
The Bills depth at linebacker has been a concern all season. Moving Baylon Spector to injured reserve with a calf injury didn’t do anything to quell those worries. The Bills have Dorian Williams, Terrel Bernard and Nicholas Morrow, but they are one more injury away from being in serious trouble in the middle of the defense.
Meanwhile, veteran linebacker Kwon Alexander is currently on the Denver Broncos practice squad. They’ve called him up a few times this season. He’s played well when he’s had his number called but the Broncos are still at risk to lose him because they haven’t signed him to their active roster.
2025 Free Agency: S Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts
The Bills were fortunate to have a consistent safety duo for a few years with Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde. Now that the two veterans are gone, the Bills might have a little more turnover there. For instance, they’ll likely want to bring in competition to figure out who the two starters will be next season. Cole Bishop should be part of the plan as a second-year player, but Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp will have to earn their spots again.
Julian Blackmon would make sense as a target. He’s having a rough season with the Colts, giving up a 129.6 passer rating after giving up a 46.6 rating last season. The Colts only gave him a one-year contract last season so it’s not hard to see him leaving in the offseason.
2025 NFL Draft: CB Mansoor Delane, Virginia Tech
The Bills kind of rebuilt their secondary on the fly this offseason. Tre’Davious White, Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde all left and the Bills did their best to put together a group that consists of Rasul Douglas, Tayor Rapp and Cam Lewis. The group has done well enough to keep the Bills in contention this season, but it’s obviously a group that is still under construction.
Finding another cornerback who can play opposite a healthy Christian Benford would be a good addition through the draft. Mansoor Delane has shown the competitiveness and versatility to succeed in Sean McDermott’s system.
“He has all the tools but needs a little more consistency in his play. His fluidity in coverage, combined with his competitive nature and athleticism, makes him a valuable piece in both man and zone schemes,” B/R scout Cory Giddings said in his scouting report.
Carolina Panthers5 of 32
Bryce YoungMatt Kelley/Getty Images
Don’t look now, but the Carolina Panthers have won two straight and continue to see promising flashes from second-year quarterback Bryce Young. Granted, Sunday’s overtime victory came in Germany against a New York Giants team that imploded, but Carolina will take all of the positives it can get.
The jury is still out on Young of course. With a bad overall roster, though, the Panthers will probably delay any long-term quarterback decisions until after the season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
QuarterbackEdge-RusherTight EndWide ReceiverDefensive TackleMove to Make Now: Give WR Jalen Coker more targets
In fairness to the Panthers, this is likely already in the works after the Jonathan Mingo trade. But Coker didn’t start getting significant playing time until Week 5 and he’s been pretty productive since then, logging 14 catches for 222 yards and a touchdown heading into this weekend.
The undrafted rookie could be the offense’s long-term solution at slot receiver, so the team’s goal should be to get him as many opportunities as possible to asses how big of a need wide receiver will be in the offseason.
2025 Free Agency: LB Jamien Sherwood, New York Jets
Shaq Thompson’s days in Carolina might be numbered as he’ll be a 31-year-old free agent who is coming off a torn Achilles in the offseason. So, the front office will likely be looking for some linebacker help and Sherwood could be a good fit since he’s young and having an impressive campaign this fall.
Through Week 9, the 25-year-old who turns 26 in January ranked third among linebackers with 33 “defensive stops” according to Pro Football Focus. He’s also fared well in PFF’s grading system with a 76.4 run-defense grade and 70.3 mark in coverage to be a suitable replacement for Thompson.
2025 NFL Draft: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State
While the Panthers drafted Ja’Tavion Sanders in the fourth round last year, Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble are impending free agents. Also, the Penn State product’s talent might be too good to pass up on.
“Warren is a versatile playmaking tight end with traditional height, weight, and athleticism,” B/R’s offensive skill positions scout Damian Parson wrote.
“Warren possesses strong ball skills to attack passes at its highest point. The former HS quarterback plays with good contact balance to fight for yards after the catch. Warren has room to grow with functional strength and run-blocking technique. If he improves these areas, he will be a three-down impact player at the TE position.”
Chicago Bears6 of 32
Bears QB Caleb WilliamsBen Hsu/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Sunday’s 19-3 loss to the New England Patriots wasn’t the worst of the Chicago Bears’ season, but it might have been the most disheartening.
Chicago had been undefeated at home and had seen promising play from rookie QB Caleb Williams at Soldier Field.
Neither Williams nor the Bears fared well against New England in Week 10, with bad offensive line play (nine sacks allowed) being one of the biggest issues.
Chicago has the offensive skill players needed to develop Williams into a franchise quarterback. Until they find an improved line—and a more cohesive game plan—the Bears aren’t ready to end their longstanding quarterback woes.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Right GuardOffensive Tackle depthCenter2nd CornerLinebackerMove to Make Now: Give Jack Sanborn more playing time
While the Bears have a lot of money invested in starting linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards, both have been about average this season. Heading into the weekend, Edmunds had a 60.5 grade from Pro Football Focus while Edwards sat at 58.1. While it’s a smaller sample size, Sanborn had a mark of 72.0.
It might be worth seeing what the three-year pro can do with a bigger role on the defense. He is a restricted free agent in the offseason, so this could be an opportunity to evaluate whether he’s worth offering a contract extension.
2025 Free Agency: OT Matt Peart, Denver Broncos
Darnell Wright and Braxton Jones are decent starters, but Chicago’s lack of depth at offensive tackle has been exposed recently. They should invest in a quality backup this offseason.
Peart is a career-long swing tackle who has been playing well for the Broncos this season. On 142 total snaps through Week 9, he had only allowed six pressures (no sacks or QB hits) and earned a respectable 65.5 run-blocking grade from PFF.
2025 NFL Draft: WR Evan Stewart, Oregon
Rome Odunze is starting to come along but Keenan Allen is an impending free agent. Ryan Poles might want to explore this year’s draft class at wide receiver to replace Allen and give Caleb Williams another target. Poles should take a long look at the Oregon product since he could be a good option in the slot.
“Stewart is a quick-twitch route runner with alignment versatility,” B/R’s offensive skill positions scout Damian Parson said. “He makes plays from all across the offensive formations.
“Stewart possesses good vertical speed to stress defenses down the field and after the catch. Route running is a strength of his game to win against both man and zone coverages. Stewart’s frame and skillset resemble Minnesota Vikings WR2 Jordan Addison.”
Cincinnati Bengals7 of 32
Ja’Marr ChaseMichael Owens/Getty Images
Frustration. That might be the best one-word summary of the Cincinnati Bengals season thus far.
Thursday night’s loss was the latest example. Joe Burrow (428 yards, 4 TDs) and Ja’Marr Chase (264 yards, 3 TDs) had one of their best performances and it still wasn’t enough for the Bengals to get in the win column.
A failed two-point conversion ended the night for the Bengals and brought their record to 4-6. The defense couldn’t contain Lamar Jackson and the Ravens offense. Five of the Bengals six losses have now come by one score.
Biggest Weaknesses:
CornerbackInterior Defensive LineEdge-RusherLinebackerInterior Offensive LineMove to Make Now: Keep Mike Gesicki on the field
With Tee Higgins out for another game, Mike Gesicki saw a huge uptick in playing time and role in the passing game. According to PFF, the tight end was on the field for 58 snaps, ran 45 routes and saw nine targets.
He only turned it into four catches for 30 yards, but that would ignore the fact that he turned 14 targets into 12 catches for 173 yards and two touchdowns in the previous two weeks.
Gesicki has proven that he is one of the Bengals most dynamic receivers even when Tee Higgins returns to the lineup. He might not bring a lot of blocking to the table, but he should continue to be on the field for the majority of the pass plays.
2025 Free Agency: LB Tyrel Dodson, Seattle Seahawks
Major changes are needed for the Bengals’ defense to return to a respectable level. The coaching staff has remained largely the same since the Bengals were a top-10 unit in 2022. However, many of the contributors have either aged or left, and the Bengals haven’t nailed their draft picks.
That leaves a few spots where an upgrade is needed and a linebacker to play alongside Logan Wilson is among them. Tyrel Dodson is worth a look. It’s easy to see the impact he has had with a rising Seattle Seahakws defense after putting together a strong 2023 campaign in Buffalo.
If there’s a silver lining to the Bengals frustrations this season it’s that they are going to earn a higher draft pick than they should. Cincinnati is clearly better than its record would indicate and this could give them a chance to draft a real foundational piece for its defense.
Michigan’s Mason Graham would certainly qualify. The 6’3″, 318-pounder received a top-10 grade from B/R scout Matt Holder and he’s high on the potential that he has as a versatile interior disruptor.
“Mason Graham has the potential to be one of the best defensive tackle prospects to come out of college in the last few years. His lack of elite size and length will keep him from being in the same category as Jalen Carter, but the Michigan product’s combination of strength and athleticism gives him a high ceiling as a pro.”
Cleveland Browns8 of 32
Nick Chubb, left, and Jameis WinstonJason Miller/Getty Images
The Cleveland Browns have to be feeling thankful for a bye week. Just about everything that could go wrong this season has and the team has a lot of things to figure out for the rest of the season. Not the least of which is whether they’ll continue with Jameis Winston at quarterback or give Dorian Thompson-Robinson another shot.
Biggest Weaknesses:
QuarterbackWide ReceiverLeft TackleLinebackerInterior DefenderMove to Make Now: Manufacture some touches for WR Jamari Thrash
The Browns aren’t making the playoffs. That ship has sailed. The decisions to trade away Amari Cooper and Za’Darius Smith before the trade deadline were confessions of that reality. All that’s left to do this season is to get a good look at the young talent they have on the roster as they try to figure out where to go from here.
In that spirit, they should be looking to get the ball in Jamari Thrash’s hands at least a few times in the coming weeks. The fifth-round pick has worked his way onto the field for some snaps, but hasn’t really been involved in the offense. Elijah Moore is a free agent and the Browns will need a third receiver to step up. Thrash could be that guy, but it’s hard to know what they have right now until they get him the ball some.
2025 Free Agency: TE Jack Stoll, Philadelphia Eagles
The Browns were effective users of 12 personnel (one running back, two tight ends) in the early days of Kevin Stefanski’s offense in Cleveland. Their ability to get into heavier personnel sets was part of a physical run game that opened things up for play-action pass and gave the Browns an identity. The arrival of Deshaun Watson changed things and adding offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey to the mix altered those tendencies too. The Browns are 27th in 12 personnel usage this season.
Jack Stoll is not a well-known commodity in the league, but he’s a good blocking tight end that has helped the Eagles excel. They are fifth in the league in 12 personnel usage and Stoll’s ability to come in and do the dirty work is a reason why.
2025 NFL Draft: RB Omarion Hampton, North Carolina
The eventual end of the Nick Chubb era is going to be sad in Cleveland. He’s been the biggest offensive star the Browns have had since the franchise was brought back in 1999 and he’s done well to return from a devastating injury last season. Unfortunately, he’s going to be 29 in December. The time might be coming to find his successor.
B/R’s Ryan Fowler recently compared North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton to Breece Hall with a little more physicality.
“Like Hall, Hampton’s explosiveness and ability to create both inside and outside the tackles is excellent. However, Hampton’s physical approach to the position reminds me of Robinson out of Alabama because of his powerful build and hunger to gain every inch of yardage.”
That’s a back that the Browns faithful could get behind again.
Dallas Cowboys9 of 32
Cowboys RB Rico DowdleSam Hodde/Getty Images
It’s officially time for the Dallas Cowboys to turn the page on their 2024 season.
Dak Prescott (hamstring) may be headed to injured reserve, and Sunday’s 34-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles showed that Dallas can’t compete without him.
The next two months should be spent evaluating impending free agents and preparing to fill holes in the upcoming offseason.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Left TackleNose TackleCornerbackDefensive EndSafetyMove to Make Now: Commit to Rico Dowdle as the lead back
The Cowboys’ rushing attack has been awful this season. Heading into this past weekend, they had the fewest rushing yards in the league (656) and were tied for the second-lowest yards per carry (3.8). A big reason for that is Ezekiel Elliot has 48 carries and 3.1 ypc.
Elliott saw another six carries on Sunday, even though Rico Dowdle (12 carries, 53 yards) was clearly the more efficient ball-carrier.
While Dowdle still has the most touches out of the backfield (86), he should be the offense’s feature back moving forward and get the lion’s share of the carries. The 26-year-old is averaging 4.5 yards per rush and is in a contract year, so the organization should use the next two months to see how he handles a bigger workload.
2025 Free Agency: DT B.J. Hill, Cincinnati Bengals
Osa Odighizuwa and several other Cowboys defensive tackles are impending free agents, so Dallas will likely be in the market for some help in the trenches this offseason. If the organization still wants to compete for a Super Bowl, adding a veteran like Hill would be a wise investment.
The seven-year pro has earned above-average grades for his run defense and pass rush from Pro Football Focus. Through Week 9 in 2024, he’s earned marks of 68.3 against the run and 73.1 as a pass-rusher.
2025 NFL Draft: IOL Tate Ratledge, Georgia
Guard Zack Martin’s contract expires in the offseason and Tyler Smith’s deal is up at the end of the 2025 campaign. So, Jerry Jones will likely be looking for some guards in this year’s draft class.
Ratledge currently ranks as the third-best interior offensive lineman on B/R’s big board.
“Ratledge wins as a run blocker using very good play strength and leg drive to work inside the frame of his target on angle-drive and combo blocks, strain to get vertical and effectively seal off alleys behind him,” offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said via the Bulldog’s scouting report.
“He can get over-aggressive on contact, drop a shoulder and fail to gain leverage before getting slipped, primarily on vertical double-teams when he has to generate immediate displacement. Ratledge shows solid quickness and timing as the drive man on doubles to bump, feed and release to line up backers.”
Denver Broncos10 of 32
Bo NixWilliam Purnell/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Last week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens and this week’s matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs were supposed to tell us about the Denver Broncos. Despite both games resulting in losses, they offered very different stories.
The Broncos shook off the 41-10 loss to the Ravens and mostly locked up the Chiefs in a 16-14 loss. Denver jumped out to a 14-3 lead before Kansas City did just enough to take the lead. Kansas City blocked Denver’s 35-yard attempt at a game-winner.
This is the kind of loss that stings, but really provides hope that Denver’s defense is for real and they are going be dangerous sooner than later.
Biggest Weaknesses:
CenterRunning BackWide ReceiverTight EndEdge-RusherAdd Now: Funnel more targets to Troy Franklin
The Broncos have earned a spot in the wildcard race with the early success they’ve had this season. They’ve paired a strong defense with a developing offense, but their loss to the Ravens last week was a reminder that they still have room to grow.
One major question they have to figure out is what Troy Franklin’s role will be moving forward. The rookie has had some good moments, but right now he’s not much more than a deep threat that gets targeted a few times a game. His Week 7 route map showed him getting six diverse targets and turning it into five catches for 50 yards. More games like that would be encouraging.
2025 Free Agency: Edge Michael Hoecht, Los Angeles Rams
The Broncos took a major step toward locking down a strong pass rush when they gave Jonathan Cooper a four-year contract extension. He earned that over the last few seasons. However, Baron Browning’s role has not increased and he’s headed toward the end of his contract. If they allow the former off-ball linebacker to leave, they could need a fourth edge player to go with Cooper, Nik Bonitto and Jonah Eliss.
Los Angeles Rams defender Michael Hoecht is a unique edge defender who would pair well with Bonitto and Eliss as a complementary piece. At 6’4″, 267 pounds he’s a much bigger player than Bonitto and Eliss who are both under 250 pounds.
The Broncos defense has taken a massive step forward this season. They also made a solid under-the-radar decision by signing Jonathan Cooper to a four-year extension. He’ll pair with Nik Bonitto to form a strong pass-rushing duo for the next few years. The Broncos next frontier is to get more reinforcements in the secondary.
Grabbing Malaki Starks in the first round would be a huge addition. Cory Giddings has him ranked as the best safety in the draft class and a potential star. Pairing him with Patrick Surtain II would give the Broncos a promising defensive back duo to go with their young edge-rushers.
“Starks’ overall skill set and football IQ give him a high ceiling as a defensive playmaker. With the ability to contribute from day one, Starks is poised to become a key player in any NFL secondary, offering the potential to develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber safety,” Giddings wrote in his scouting report.
Detroit Lions11 of 32
Jahmyr GibbsAlex Slitz/Getty Images
The Detroit Lions overcame an odd five-interception performance from Jared Goff to outlast the Houston Texans 26-23 on Sunday night.
With Goff playing about as poorly as he has since joining Detroit in 2021, coming back from a 23-6 halftime deficit required a total team effort. Fortunately, the Lions have enough talent throughout the roster to battle through bad games and gut out wins.
Detroit is a title contender this season, has $54.8 million in projected 2025 cap space, and could have an open Super Bowl window for multiple years.
Biggest Weaknesses:
CornerbackEdge-RusherOffensive Line depthWide Receiver depthLeft GuardMove to Make Now: None
The Lions added Za’Darius Smith to help fill the gap for Aidan Hutchinson and Emmanuel Moseley returned to practice to potentially help solve the defense’s issue at cornerback. Given that and the fact the team has been rolling lately, there’s no need to change things up right now.
2025 Free Agency: G Trey Smith, Kansas City Chiefs
Kevin Zeitler is only on a one-year deal and Graham Glasgow has been more solid than good this season, meaning the team could find an upgrade over Glasgow. The point is that Detroit will likely be in the market for a guard this offseason, one way or another.
Smith is one of the best interior offensive linemen in the NFL as Pro Football Focus had him as the eighth-highest-graded guard (81.5) heading into the past weekend.
While the 25-year-old who turns 26 in June will command top dollar on the open market, the Lions are currently projected to have about $65 million of cap space available this offseason, per Over The Cap.
2025 NFL Draft: CB Tacario Davis, Arizona
Given the defense’s need at cornerback, Brad Holmes will likely be doing a lot of homework on this year’s draft class at the position. The Arizona product’s size should pique Holmes’ interest and the corner has plenty of potential at the next level.
“Davis is an intriguing cornerback prospect with rare length and size—at 6’4″ and 195 pounds, he brings a unique profile to the position,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings said via the Davis’ scouting report.
“His combination of height and movement skills allows him to compete in press coverage, and his physicality in both coverage and run defense stands out. Davis offers a unique blend of athleticism and physical play, making him a potential second-round pick with the ability to impact at the next level.”
Green Bay Packers12 of 32
Xavier McKinneyChris Leduc/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The bye week came at a good time for the Green Bay Packers as the team was without three starters, Jaire Alexander, Evan Williams and Josh Myers, two Sundays ago. Also, rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd could be coming off injured reserve, and the defense got extra time to plan to replace linebacker Preston Smith, who was traded to the Steelers last week.
That time off should help Green Bay make a playoff push in the second half of the season as it sits at 6-3 and should be in the thick of the wildcard race down the stretch.
Biggest Weaknesses:
CenterEdge-Rusher2nd CornerbackDefensive TackleLinebackerMove to Make Now: Sign Edge Melvin Ingram
The Packers granted Smith’s trade request as he wasn’t a good scheme fit in Jeff Hafley’s system. But that does leave the defense thin at edge rusher. Green Bay needed help at the position before the trade.
Adding a veteran like Ingram as a sub-package rusher wouldn’t be a bad idea to help make a playoff push. He logged six sacks in that role for the Dolphins two years ago.
2025 Free Agency: CB Donte Jackson, Pittsburgh Steelers
Eric Stokes and Corey Ballentine are impending free agents, meaning Green Bay will likely look for some cornerback help this offseason. Jackson could be an intriguing veteran option since he has impressive ball skills with 17 career interceptions and 52 passes defended heading into this weekend.
Through Week 9 of this season, the 28-year-old is second among cornerbacks with three picks and has yielded a meager 46.2 passer rating when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus.
2025 NFL Draft: Edge Abdul Carter, Penn State
Again, the Packers can use some help at edge-rusher. Kingsley Enagbare is a free agent after next season. Brian Gutenkunst likes to draft high-level athletes who are projects at the position, which fits the Penn State product’s description to a tee.
“Carter is an elite athlete, which gives him a high ceiling as a pass-rusher at the next level,” the Nittany Lion’s scouting report says.
“His get-off is very impressive as he explodes off the line of scrimmage and can win with speed around the edge when times up the snap. Also, he’s shown a decent dip-rip move and the potential to develop a stick move as an inside counter with his movement skills.”
Houston Texans13 of 32
Joe MixonAlex Slitz/Getty Images
For the first half of Sunday night’s game against the Detroit Lions, it looked like the Texans were going to get a massive bounce-back win. After losing to the Jets on Thursday night last week, the 23-7 led they built by halftime was a bit shocking.
Then the other shoe dropped. The Texans intercepted Jared Goff Five times, but it wasn’t enough to slow down the Lions offense in the second half. The Texans offense got shut out over the final 30 minutes of game time and the Texans had to watch as Jake Bates slid a 52-yard game-winning field goal just inside the upright as time expired.
The Texans have now lost three of the last four and have a lot to prove over the second half of the season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Interior Offensive LineInterior Defensive LineLinebackerSafetyEdge-RusherMove to Make Now: Keep Running Backs in Pass Protection
It’s no secret that the Texans pass protection has been a major issue all season. Stroud faced pressure at the third-highest rate in the league going into Week 10 and he’d already been sacked 30 times. Some of that is on the offensive line. The interior has especially struggled to hold up which creates major problems for an offense.
However, there’s a certain point where coaching comes into play. Running backs Joe Mixon and Dare Ogunbowale combined to run 25 routes last week against the Jets with just three targets among the duo. Anytime the Texans throw the ball it would probably be more beneficial to either be play-faking to the running back or keeping him in protection to buy Stroud just a little more time.
2025 Free Agency: Edge Josh Uche, Kansas City Chiefs
Depth on the edge is crucial for any contender. The Texans might not reach true contender status this season, but they will have a good opportunity to do it in C.J. Stroud’s third year. Not only can they fix their offensive line woes, but get a little younger along the defensive line. Derek Barnett is set to become a free agent and Jerry Hughes will be 37 years old.
Josh Uche is a high-end rotational pass rusher who could help. The 26-year-old just got traded to the Kansas City Chiefs, but that could just be a rental. He will enter free agency with youth on his side and he has good production in an important area of the game. He’s not a strong run defender, but the Texans just need someone who can get after the quarterback with Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter.
2025 NFL Draft: IOL Wyatt Milum, West Virginia
It’s going to take a combination of personnel changes, coaching and growth from C.J. Stroud, but the Texans can not go into 2025 with the same protection issues they have right now. It’s hard to fix something so glaring in the middle of the season, but it should be fixed in 2025.
Part of that plan could require an early draft pick. Specifically, someone who could take the left guard spot from Kenyon Green would be ideal. While some will view Wyatt Milum as an oddensive tackle, B/R’s Brandon Thorn has the West Virginia product kicking inside to guard.
Indianapolis Colts14 of 32
Joe FlaccoAndy Lyons/Getty Images
The Colts’ frustrating season continued on Sunday with a 30-20 loss to the Bills. Ultimately a loss to one of the best teams in the AFC is frustrating, but there were a few things that broke Indianapolis’ way.
Jonathan Taylor had a strong game on the ground with 114 yards on 21 carries. The defense picked off Josh Allen twice. All of it was wasted on another poor performance from the quarterback position. Joe Flacco took four sacks and threw three picks in the loss.
Biggest Weaknesses:
SafetyTight EndQuarterbackEdge-RusherCornerbackMove to Make Now: Go back to Anthony Richardson at quarterback
It’s no secret that there were going to be some growing pains for Anthony Richardson upon entering the league. One of the major drawbacks to him as a prospect was that he only had one season’s worth of starting experience with the Florida Gators. No one denied the physical tools, it was a matter of developing him.
The Colts benched the quarterback after some rough performances this season. With Indianapolis on the brink of the wildcard race, they opted to start Joe Flacco for the best chance to win now. The problem is that Flacco threw two picks in his first five pass attempts against the Bills and he doesn’t move the franchise any closer to finding out if they have their future franchise quarterback on the roster. It’s time to turn things back to Richardson.
2025 Free Agency: S Budda Baker, Arizona Cardinals
The Colts young secondary has made some strides this season. Jaylon Jones is looking like a starter, Samuel Womack III has been big and Kenny Moore II is still playing well. However, the safety group still has some questions. Julian Blackmon is a free agent and the jury is still out on Nick Cross.
Making a run at Budda Baker in the offseason would bring some swagger to the secondary. Baker is probably in line for his last significant contract in this free agent cycle at 29 years old, but the Colts could use his versatility and playmaking as they continue to form the defensive back group.
2025 NFL Draft: TE Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Green
The Colts have added plenty of athletic tight ends over the last few seasons. From Jelani Woods to Mo Alie-Cox they have tried to target high-upside prospects who could be developed into better players than they were in college. They’ve had varying degrees of success in the endeavor, but none have really emerged as a premier passing threat.
They could take a different approach by going after one of the best tight ends in the draft class this time around. Harold Fannin Jr. is in the mix with Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland to be the top tight end selected in the spring. The 6’4″, 230-pounder is not a traditional in-line blocker, but he’s dynamic with the ball in his hands and is already a good route-runner for a tight end.
Jacksonville Jaguars15 of 32
Foyesade Oluokun, left, and Josh Hines-AllenRich Storry/Getty Images
The Jaguars picked off Sam Darnold three times and limited Justin Jefferson to 48 receiving yards. One would think those two facts would be enough to get a win over the Vikings. Unfortunately for the Jags, the offense was only able to muster seven points of its own as Mac Jones tossed two interceptions of his own and only managed 111 passing yards.
The positive spin here is that the Jaguars defense played well. They only sacked Darnold once, but they generated a lot of hurries and forced some poor throws. That’s something to build on over the second half of the season and into 2025.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Interior Defensive LineCornerbackSafetyTight EndWide ReceiverMove to Make Now: Put Trevor Lawrence on Injured Reserve
Dianna Russini and Michael Silver of The Athletic released a bit of surprising news early on Sunday. Not only did Trevor Lawrence miss Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings with an AC joint sprain, but the injury could cost him the rest of the season.
That could be the best result for all parties involved. This season has been brutal for Lawrence. In his first campaign since signing a five-year, $275 million he has his lowest completion percentage since his rookie campaign and has been sacked 18 times in nine games.
The Jaguars are not returning to playoff contention at this point. Letting Mac Jones finish out the season gives them the best chance to get their quarterback healthy, land a high draft pick and be ready to have a bounce-back season in 2025.
2025 Free Agency: OT Alaric Jackson, Los Angeles Rams
The Jaguars have tipped their hand that some changes are coming on the offensive line. It’s rare that a team actually trades away a competent starting offensive tackle, but the Jaguars wwere willing to send Cam Robinson to the Minnesota Vikings ahead of the trade deadline.
That opens the possiblity that the Jaguars will actively pursue the best offensive linemen on the market. The tackle market will mostly be made up of aging veterans looking for a job at the end of their prime. Alaric Jackson could be one of the exceptions. The 26-year-old has proven himself going from an undrafted free agent to a legitimate starting left tackle in a few seasons. The Jaguars should be willing to pay up for Jackson after trading away Cam Robinson.
2025 NFL Draft: OL Will Campbell, LSU
The Jaguars have been one of the league’s most disappointing season this year. They are just a much better team on paper than the product they’ve put on the field. Offensive line struggles are one contributing factor. Brandon Scherff is starting to show his age, the team traded away Cam Robinson and Walker Little is set to be a free agent.
Will Campbell is going to be seen as a tackle by some. B/R’s Brandon Thorn projects a move to the inside. Either way, he could be a game-changer for the Jags up front.
“Overall, Campbell is a prime candidate to move inside as a pro. He has the makeup, movement skills, play strength, and competitive toughness to make a smooth transition to guard or center and be an impact starter with Pro Bowl potential during his rookie contract.”
Kansas City Chiefs16 of 32
Kareem HuntWilliam Purnell/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Chiefs continue to just be the team that won’t be killed every week.
The Denver Broncos got off to an ideal start, jumping out to a 14-3 lead with their defense getting after Patrick Mahomes and taking advantage of the quarterbacks’ impaired movement from a possible ankle injury.
Then Mahomes and Co. turned it on just enough to make the comeback. It started with an 11-play 70-yard touchdown drive with just under two minutes left in the first half to make it 14-10 at half. This win is a real testament to the defense and special teams in Kansas City, though. The defense shut out the Broncos in the second half and blocked a potential go-ahead field goal as time expired.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Wide ReceiverCornerbackInterior Defensive LineLeft TackleSafetyMove to Make Now: Sign CB Marcus Peters
The Chiefs have to be considered major winners of the NFL trade deadline. DeAndre Hopkins is already making a huge difference and Josh Uche strengthens the pass rush by giving them another threat on the outside.
The only major need that went unaddressed is the lack of cornerback depth. The Chiefs are going to need cornerbacks not named Trent McDuffie to play well for the team to threepeat as Super Bowl champs. Marcus Peters did not look good for the Raiders last season, but Peters spent the first three years of his career in Kansas City. Playing for a contender could give him just a little more life as he finishes out his career.
2025 Free Agency: WR Darius Slayton, New York Giants
Going from Daniel Jones at quarterback to Patrick Mahomes is a move that any wide receiver would dream about. The fact that Darius Slayton has spent the entirety of his six-year career to this point with the Giants would only make the move even sweeter for him. Slayton has become an underrated receiver whose deep speed has carved out a role every year in New York.
That speed, combined with Xavier Worthy and Andy Reid’s scheming, would become an even bigger asset in Kansas City. DeAndre Hopkins is a nice addition, but he’s still on the wrong side of 30. Slayton would be a younger addition to a receiver crew that lacks depth right now.
2025 NFL Draft: CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M
The Chiefs decision to trade L’Jarius Sneed this offseason was motivated by money, but the team’s ability to draft and develop talent in the secondary had to play a role. Sneed himself was a great example of that as a former Day 3 pick who blossomed under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
Will Lee might be another under-the-radar defensive back prospect who could be developed into a star.
“Will Lee III is a 6’3″, 190-pound cornerback with the ideal blend of size, length, and athleticism. His ability to press, mirror, and disrupt at the line of scrimmage, combined with strong ball skills and physical tackling in run support, makes him an early-round NFL prospect with All-Pro potential,” B/R scout Cory Giddings noted. “While fine-tuning his technique and consistency will be key, Lee’s unique physical traits and aggressive play style position him as a highly coveted option for teams seeking a versatile, impact cornerback.”
Las Vegas Raiders17 of 32
New offensive coordinator Scott TurnerEthan Miller/Getty Images
The Las Vegas Raiders’ decision to fire offensive coordinator Luke Getsy was probably made with the Week 10 bye week in mind. They made three major moves after starting 2-7, firing offensive line coach James Cregg and quarterbacks coach Rich Scangarello. They’ll turn to Scott Turner to run the offense now.
The bye week should provide them more time to get on the same page, but there’s a lot of work to do with Desmond Ridder potentially starting after coming in for Gardner Minshew II in Week 9.
Biggest Weaknesses:
QuarterbackWide ReceiverCornerbackEdge-RusherInterior DefenderMove to Make Now: Stick with Desmond Ridder as the Starter
What’s the worst that could happen?
The Raiders are already out of the playoff hunt and shouldn’t be counting on Aidan O’Connell or Gardner Minshew to be the answer in 2025. Desmond Ridder isn’t likely to be the guy either, but he arguably has the most upside. He’s only 25, has 17 starts with a 8-9 record. Coming out of Cincinnati he was widely recognized for his athleticism and arm. He just has to get better at the finer points of playing quarterback.
The Raiders should let him start the final eight games of the season. If he’s terrible, the Raiders wind up in pole position to draft the best quarterback prospect in 2025.
2025 Free Agency: DT Bobby Brown III, Los Angeles Rams
The Raiders defense has been one of the most disappointing units in football this season. They completely collapsed after looking like a potentially elite unit in the back half of the 2023 season. Signing Christian Wilkins was supposed to help elevate an already strong unit, but his injury has left the defense with more questions than answers.
The Raiders are relying on Adam Butler and John Jenkins to play a lot of snaps right now. Both are on the wrong side of 30 and both are impending free agents. Bobby Brown is one of the few true nose tackles who is well in his prime at 25 years old and might hit the open market.
2025 NFL Draft: QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Choosing between Aidan O’Connell, Gardner Minshew and Desmond Ridder is a sure sign that things just aren’t going well for a franchise. The Raiders need a quarterback they can build around and they are going to have to be willing to utilize a high draft pick to find that guy.
In the latest mock draft from the B/R scouting department, that guy is Garrett Nussmeier with the sixth overall pick.
“Nussmeier is an inexperienced prospect with great NFL talent,” B/R scout Dame Parson said of the pick. “Plenty of ‘NFL throws’ can be seen on film, where he processes information well and anticipates throwing lanes.
Los Angeles Chargers18 of 32
Joey Bosa, Tuli Tuipulotu and Daiyan HenleySean M. Haffey/Getty Images
It’s always dangerous to take away too much from a big win over a bad team, but the Los Angeles Chargers looked impressive on both sides of the ball in a 27-17 win over the Tennessee Titans.
Playing against the Tennessee offensive line seems to cure what ails any pass rush and the Bolts racked up seven sacks.
On offense, the return of Gus Edwards from injured reserve allowed the Chargers to spread out the carries. That could be big as the team has leaned heavily on J.K. Dobbins in recent weeks.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Wide ReceiverInterior Defensive LineInterior Offensive LineEdge-RusherCornerbackMove to Make Now: Sign Edge Randy Gregory
The Chargers have managed to get involved in the wildcard race in Jim Harbaugh’s first year. There are a lot of things to like about what they’ve done this season based on what they did last year. One area that has been disappointing is the pass-rush, though. Khalil Mack is having a great year, but the Chargers are still 31st in pressure percentage.
There aren’t a ton of pass-rushing talents available after the trade deadline. However, Randy Gregory is still looking for a home. The veteran was still somewhat productive in runs with the Broncos and 49ers last season. Perhaps sitting out the first half of this season has rejuevenated him to help a team over the back half.
2025 Free Agency: C Coleman Shelton, Chicago Bears
Bradley Bozeman’s willingness to defend his quarterback is a welcomed showing of the tough culture that Harbaugh would like to install. His 53.8 PFF grade, which ranks 33rd out of 35 centers, is less welcomed. It’s likely that the Bolts will be looking to replace the soon-to-be 30-year-old center with an expiring contract.
They could draft his successor, but they also might want to go the veteran route to ensure the offensive line doesn’t have a weak link next season. Coleman Shelton has made a strong case for a starting job next season when he becomes a free agent. The 29-year-old ranked 10th among all centers in PFF grade heading into Week 11.
2025 NFL Draft: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M
Khalil Mack is having a great season, but the reality is that he’s scheduled to be a free agent and he’s going to be 34 next season. Given Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz’s commitment to building elite offensive and defensive lines, it’s not hard to imagine the team using their first-round pick to get better in the trenches. Nic Scourton is one of the most unique talents in this year’s class. At 6’4”, 280 pounds he’s built like an old school 3-4 defensive end, but he has routinely played outside linebacker at both Purdue and Texas A&M.
“Scourton already has a nasty spin move that can beat offensive tackles. He also has active hands to help add to his pass-rush arsenal and a good motor to get coverage sacks,” Matt Holder wrote in his scouting report. “Between his pro-ready body and impressive movement skills, it’s easy to see why NFL teams like Scourton and why he’ll likely be a first-round pick.”
Los Angeles Rams19 of 32
Sean McVayRic Tapia/Getty Images
The Los Angeles Rams suffered a frustrating defeat against the Miami Dolphins on Monday night. While the defense played well enough, the offense stalled far too frequently. Los Angeles ultimately settled for six field-goal attempts and lost a 23-15 game.
Shaky offensive line play—due, in part, to the return of Steve Avila (MCL) and Jonah Jackson (broken scapula) from injured reserve—was a big part of the problem. Ideally, the line will be better once Avila and Jackson are back in mid-season form. At 4-5, however, the Rams now face a must-win situation every week.
Biggest Weaknesses:
SafetyLinebackerCornerbackGuardCenterMove to Make Now: Get Colby Parkinson More Involved
Most of L.A.’s needs this season have emerged because of injuries. With Avila, Jackson, Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua back in the lineup, the roster is getting more complete.
There isn’t much for the Rams to do roster-wise at this point, but schematically, they should look to get tight end Colby Parkinson more involved in the passing game. The former Seattle Seahawk is on pace for a career year but has largely faded from the game plan since Kupp and Nacua returned.
Parkinson wasn’t targeted on Monday night.
By drawing up a few more plays for Parkinson, the Rams could take advantage of the attention that Kupp and Nacua demand—as they have with wideout Demarcus Robinson—while giving opponents one more thing to think about during preparation.
Using the tight end in the short-passing game might also help Matthew Stafford get the ball out quicker, which could bee a boon until the line issues are settled.
2025 Free Agency: Tyrel Dodson, LB, Seattle Seahawks
With $51.8 million in projected 2025 cap space, the Rams can afford to be players on the open market. Given L.A.’s recent youth movement, however, Les Snead is unlikely to spend the offseason big-name hunting—the days of chasing Von Miller and Odell Beckham Jr. are likely over.
Snagging Tyrel Dodson away from Seattle would fit Los Angeles’ needs and construction plan. He’s been a terrific do-it-all linebacker for the Seahawks after spending the majority of his early career as a role player in Buffalo.
Dodson would help bolster L.A.’s second-level defense, and he won’t turn 27 until June. Younger defensive backs like D.J. Reed and Asante Samuel Jr. should also earn some consideration.
2025 NFL Draft: Malachi Moore, S, Alabama
The back end of the defense has been a bit of a liability this season, though the Rams have finally started to see some flashes from rookie safety Kamren Kinchens. Alabama’s Malachi Moore would be a fine target in next year’s draft because of his versatility.
“Moore is one of the more well rounded safeties in this year’s class,” Giddings wrote. “Although he does his best work closer to the box and defending the run, he has the ability to play out in space and cover receivers from a multitude of depths.”
Moore could replace free-agent addition Kamren Curl, who has struggled in coverage and is only signed through 2025, at strong safety. He could also see time at free safety, at nickel, or rotate at all three positions.
Miami Dolphins20 of 32
Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images
The Miami Dolphins win over the Los Angles Rams to close out Week 10 on Monday Night Football might have been a case of too-little-too late as far as 2024 goes. The win brought their record to 3-6 in a highly competitive AFC. It does, however, show the Dolphins willingness to keep playing hard and embody the role of spoiler over the back half of the season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Interior Offensive LineInterior Defensive LineWide Receiver DepthTight EndQuarterbackMove to Make Now: Create more targets for Jaylen Waddle
This has been a frustrating season for several involved with the Miami Dolphins organization. Jaylen Waddle is chief among them. The 25-year-old signed a three-year, $84.8 million extension this offseason only to be much less involved in the offense this season. The speedster was targeted 7.4 times per game last season, but only averaged 4.8 ahead of the Monday Night Football matchup this week.
A lot of that has to do with Tua Tagovailoa’s absence and Waddle has five drops this season. But simply cutting Waddle out of the gameplan has made the Dolphins offense easier to defend every week. The Dolphins threw the ball to Waddle six times in their loss to the Los Angeles Rams, but that was with Tyreek Hill out of the lineup.
2025 Free Agency: QB Mac Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars
Backup quarterback is an important position for everyone. It might be most important in Miami moving forward. It’s an unfortunate reality that Tagovailoa’s injury history, which includes multiple concussions, has to be considered as the Dolphins are building their roster moving forward. The quarterback has only played all 17 games in a season once in five years.
Someone like Mac Jones, who is still trying to resurrect his career after failings in New England, could be interested in going to Miami. His accuracy could make him a good fit in Mike McDaniel’s offense and would give the Dolphins the ability to continue running a watered-down version of their offense when their franchise quarterback is out.
2025 NFL Draft: DT Tyleik Williams, Ohio State
The bottom line for the Dolphins right now is that they have an expensive roster with a lot of older veterans. This season has been a struggle in South Beach and it’s a sign that the roster needs to be re-tooled. Building better offensive and defensive lines is going to need to be an emphasis in that rebuilding.
Tyleik Williams could be the kind of tone-setter up front that the Dolphins don’t have. Losing Christian Wilkins was a major blow for the defense and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver doesn’t have the same interior talent he had in Baltimore. Williams has impressive movement skills for a 6’3″, 327 pounds lineman.
Minnesota Vikings21 of 32
Sam DarnoldMike Carlson/Getty Images
Despite a second consecutive three-turnover game from Sam Darnold, the Minnesota Vikings managed to outlast the Jaguars 12-7 on Sunday. While there are no moral victories in the NFL, this one might count as a moral loss.
J.J. McCarthy is still Minnesota’s quarterback of the future, but Darnold is the quarterback of the present—and if he can’t clean up his mistakes, the Vikings could have a short stay in the postseason. The good news is that Minnesota has enough talent elsewhere on the roster to overcome inconsistent QB play more often than not.
Biggest Weaknesses:
GuardInterior Pass RushLeft TackleCornerbackMove to Make Now: Start G Dalton Risner
The Vikings don’t have many current weaknesses but guard is one of them, especially Ed Ingram who has been a disappointment since being a second-round pick two years ago. Meanwhile, Risner recently came off injured reserve and returned to the team’s active roster.
The five-year pro has a good track record as a starter in the league and could be a good in-house upgrade over Ingram. That change would help erase the offense’s biggest hole.
2025 Free Agency: CB Kristian Fulton, Los Angeles Chargers
Minnesota is currently projected to have $75 million of cap space available this offseason, according to Over The Cap, and the front office will likely spend a good chunk of that money at cornerback. Byron Murphy, Stephon Gilmore and Shaquill Griffin are all about to have their contracts expire, so the position will be a major need.
While Fulton’s career got off to a rough start in Tennessee, he’s been putting together a bounce-back campaign in Los Angeles. In seven games, the 26-year-old had only surrendered nine receptions and a passer rating of 68.8 when targeted, according to Pro Football Focus.
2025 NFL Draft: IOL Parker Brailsford, Alabama
As mentioned above, the Vikings could use some help at guard and Risner is an impending free agent. Also, Garrett Bradbury’s contract expires after next season. So, drafting a player like the Alabama product who could potentially fill in at guard for a year and the move to center could be a smart move.
“Brailsford is an undersized, twitchy center with an aggressive, physical playing style,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. With improved footwork as the year has gone on he has been able to increasingly beat defenders to the spot in the run and pass game, covering up targets and establishing first meaningful contact more often than not.
“This has helped mask some of his play strength concerns, but they remain an issue periodically through games, specifically in his struggles to anchor down against powerful nose tackles.
“While Brailsford’s lean, angular frame and lack of sand is still a long-term concern, his athletic ability and competitive toughness are good enough to keep him in the conversation to be drafted somewhere in the first few rounds.”
New England Patriots22 of 32
Ja’Lynn PolkMichael Reaves/Getty Images
Drake Maye and Caleb Williams will be linked together throughout their careers. After Sunday, consider it Maye 1, Williams 0.
Maye didn’t light the world on fire. He completed 15 of his 25 pass attempts for 184 yards and a touchdown with one interception. Still, he stabilized the offense and even operated at a high level, including the final drive of the first half to set up a field goal with one second left.
The 19-3 win has to feel good for the Patriots. It’s a sign they are headed in the right direction after a disappointing loss to the Titans last week.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Offensive TackleInterior Offensive LineEdge-RusherWide ReceiverInterior Defensive LineMove to Make Now: Nothing
The Patriots seem to understand the situation they are in at this point. They are prioritizing playing their younger players. They decided to bench Kendrick Bourne so that their younger receiver would get more run. The result was a nice day for Kayshon Boutte and Ja’Lynn Polk’s second career touchdown.
Those are the kinds of little wins that the Patriots should be looking for. There aren’t moves that are going to make them appreciably better right now. It’s time to protect Drake Maye and see what they have in some of their other young players.
2025 Free Agency: Edge Malcolm Koonce, Las Vegas Raiders
If the Patriots are going to accelerate their rebuild, they are going to have to hit on some risky decisions. With a large budget to spend on free agency, they are going to have the opportunity to outbid teams for at least a few players.
Malcolm Koonce is going to be a free agent that some teams won’t know what to do with. He had a breakout year in 2023, but suffered a season-ending knee injury during practice ahead of his contract year. The Patriots should be in the market for pass-rushing talent in the offseason and Koonce might be the best combination of available talent and age.
2025 NFL Draft: Edge Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College
A lot of the emphasis in this space has been on who the Patriots might target with their first pick. At this rate, they are the favorite to land the No. 1 overall pick and they’ll have their pick of a few intriguing options, but picking toward the top of the second round should allow them to add another prospect who could fill a major need.
After trading away Josh Uche and Matthew Judon this season it’s clear the Patriots are bracing to start over on the edge. They have some decent power-rushers on the roster, but Boston College’s Donovan Ezeiruaku has incredible bend off the edge and brings a little more athleticism to the table than what they currently have.
New Orleans Saints23 of 32
Derek CarrElla Hall/Getty Images
The Saints appeared to get a spark from interim coach Darren Rizzi and wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (3 receptions, 109 yards, 2 TDs) in Week 10. However, their 20-17 victory was far from decisive.
Simply put, New Orleans escaped just by making fewer mistakes than the Falcons.
The Saints have several questions on their roster and several tough financial decisions to make before the start of the 2025 league year. They’re projected to be $73 million over the salary cap in the offseason.
Biggest Weaknesses:
CenterDefensive TackleCornerbackOffensive TackleWide ReceiverMove to Make Now: Bench QB Derek Carr
The Saints are headed toward a rebuild and keeping a soon-to-be 34-year-old quarterback likely isn’t in the organization’s long-term plans, especially since it can get $30 million of salary cap relief by making Carr a post-June 1 cut, per Over The Cap.
Instead, the club should use the remaining weeks of the season to evaluate what they have in young quarterbacks Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler. If Haener and Rattler struggle, then the Saints should be in a good position to draft the future of the franchise this April.
2025 Free Agency: DL Milton Williams, Philadelphia Eagles
New Orleans could use some help at defensive tackle so signing the Louisiana Tech product in free agency should be on the front office’s mind. Williams has played in more of a rotational role during his tenure in Philadelphia, but he’s been having a good season as a pass-rusher so far in 2024.
The 25-year-old ranked seventh among interior defenders with an 80.6 grade in that department from Pro Football Focus heading into this past weekend. Also, he’s young and shouldn’t break the bank on the open market, a good combination for a cash-strapped rebuilding team.
2025 NFL Draft: OT Ajani Cornelius, Oregon
Ryan Ramczyk might have played his last down with the Saints and Trevor Penning has a brighter future at guard than he does at right tackle. So, Mickey Loomis should explore this year’s offensive tackle class and the Oregon product could be a good mid-round target in the draft.
“Cornelius has shown improvement this year as a pass protector with guarding against high-side, speed rushes to the corner by utilizing a circle punch technique that is one of the predominant ways tackles can prevent getting edged too quickly,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said.
“While Cornelius has worked this into his game with some effectiveness, his lack of foot quickness and range still is a hindrance while he is liable to fall off of blocks in the run game due to streaky body control and upright playing style that leads to overextending.
“But he does bring good grip strength and excellent physicality to generate some flashy knockdowns. If he can continue to figure out ways to shore up his footwork and leverage he will continue to elevate his draft stock.”
New York Giants24 of 32
Isaiah Simmons Adam Pretty/Getty Images
Sunday’s loss to the Carolina Panthers in Germany wasn’t all on quarterback Daniel Jones.
Jones played well enough late in the game to push the New York Giants into overtime before a Tyrone Tracy Jr. fumble led to Carolina’s walk-off field goal early in the extra period.
However, Jones will remain under the microscope for the rest of the season. At 2-8, the Giants will be in evaluation mode over the final eight weeks of 2024.
Biggest Weaknesses:
QuarterbackCornerbackGuardDefensive TackleCenterMove to Make Now: Get Theo Johnson more targets
In fairness to the Giants’ coaching staff, Johnson has become a bigger part of the game plan recently. He had 10 targets in Weeks 8 and 9 combined compared to just 16 in the team’s first seven games.
That trend needs to continue to finish the campaign. The rookie tight end averaged 11.8 yards per catch heading into the weekend and will likely be a building block for the offense moving forward.
2025 Free Agency: WR Tutu Atwell, Los Angeles Rams
New York could use some wide receiver help this offseason. Darius Slayton is an impending free agent and Jalin Hyatt has been disappointing this far in his career.
Atwell could be the offense’s deep threat that Hyatt was supposed to be. Atwell would help open things up for Malik Nabers without threatening Nabers’ status as the No. 1 receiver.
The 25-year-old clocked a sub-4.4 40-yard dash three years ago at the combine and was productive while Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua were out for Los Angeles at the beginning of the year. Atwell had a five-game stretch where he logged at least 50 yards four times with the lone outlier being a 48-yard performance.
2025 NFL Draft: OT Cameron Williams, Texas
Jermaine Eluemunor is only on a two-year contract, making him a free agent after next season. Joe Schoen should look into right tackle options in this year’s draft class and the Texas product could be a good developmental project.
“Overall, Williams is a green, inexperienced right tackle with the frame, length and grip strength to anchor against power, lengthen the corner and blot out targets on the move in the run game,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said in the Longhorn’s scouting report.
“But he has shaky footwork and balance at the top of the QB’s drop that will require a quick-trigger QB and help on an island. Williams’ upside may be highest at guard, but in a RPO/PAP-based pass game can stick at tackle in the NFL.”
New York Jets25 of 32
Aaron RodgersChris Coduto/Getty Images
It’s just not happening. The Jets rekindled playoff hopes and dreams last week, but pretty much dashed them just as quickly with a 31-6 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
It wasn’t just a dominant performance by the Cards. The offense had just 207 total yards, came up empty on three different trips to the red zone and the defense was arguably worse.
Aaron Rodgers isn’t getting any younger. The clock is ticking on this era of Jets football to be remembered for anything other than failure to live up to the hype.
Biggest Weaknesses:
SafetyInterior Defensive LineTight EndEdge-RusherCornerbackMove to Make Now: Play Malachi Corley More
The Jets passing game is going to run through Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams. That just makes sense. Both are the kind of alpha receivers that teams run their offenses through and that’s been reflected in their target distribution since the Jets traded for Adams.
But their ability to stretch the defense vertically should also open some underneath routes for rookie Malachi Corley. The Western Kentucky alum was benched in Week 9 after dropping the ball just before he was going into the endzone for what would have been his first career touchdown.
The Jets really can’t hold that against him and have to let him to continue to develop. He’s the team’s best shot at developing a legitimate third option behind Adams and Wilson.
2025 Free Agency: S Justin Reid, Kansas City Chiefs
The Jets are desperate to finally get back to the playoffs for the first time since 2010. They also could use a boost at the safety position. Targeting a veteran who happens to be part of the most successful team in the league over the last few seasons isn’t a bad idea.
Justin Reid has been a starter for the Chiefs in each of the last three seasons. While he’s not among the elite players at the position he is a sure tackler and and experienced communicator.
2025 NFL Draft: QB Will Howard, Ohio State
The Aaron Rodgers era in New York might not bring the Jets a Super Bowl. Right now, it’s looking like it might not even bring them a playoff berth. But if it helps them get decent quarterback play while they find and develop a successor then the trade to get Rodgers will have been somewhat successful. Will Howard could be the kind of quarterback worth developing. Here’s Dame Parson on what he brings to the table:
“Will Howard will check the physical boxes for NFL teams. The combination of height, weight, and arm strength will be positive marks in his draft profile. He is a plus-level athlete capable of making plays with his legs. Howard has the arm talent to attack every level of the defense. He has starter tools but expects to start as a backup.”
Philadelphia Eagles26 of 32
Jalen HurtsCooper Neill/Getty Images
Philadelphia’s 34-6 drubbing of Dallas on Sunday might have said more about the state of the Cowboys than anything else. But the fact remains that the Eagles have won five straight since the bye week and have taken over the top spot in the NFC East.
Jalen Hurts (202 passing yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 56 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs) is again playing like a true franchise quarterback, and the Eagles are one of a few teams that could engineer a deep run in the NFC this season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
3rd Wide ReceiverLinebackerLeft TackleSafetyEdge-RusherMove to Make Now: Sign Michael Thomas
The Eagles didn’t make a move for a wide receiver at the trade deadline and A.J. Brown has already battled a couple of injuries this season. So, the front office should look into adding a veteran wideout like Thomas ahead of the playoffs.
While the 31-year-old has been banged up over the last few years, he’s had plenty of time to heal up and will only have to play about half the season, which should help him stay off the injury report. Additionally, the two-time All-Pro was productive when on the field last season, catching 39 passes for 448 yards in 10 games.
2025 Free Agency: TE Tyler Conklin, New York Jets
Tight end may not be Philadelphia’s biggest need this offseason, but Jack Stoll is an impending free agent and Dallas Goedert has battled injuries over the last few years. In other words, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to invest in a quality backup at the position.
Conklin has been a productive pass-catcher over the last four seasons with over 2,000 receiving yards during that timeframe heading into this weekend. Worst case, he and Goedert could add some 12 personnel packages which would help alleviate the third wide receiver issue noted above.
2025 NFL Draft: S Dante Trader Jr., Maryland
C.J. Gardner-Johnson has been a little underwhelming this year and Reed Blankenship’s contract expires after the 2025 campaign. So, Howie Roseman might be exploring this year’s safety class in the draft and the Maryland product could be an intriguing option.
“Trader Jr. projects as an early-round pick with the potential to develop into an NFL starter,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings said via the Terp’s scouting report. “His versatility in coverage and strong run defense makes him a valuable asset, particularly in zone-heavy schemes where his awareness and instincts can be maximized.
“While he may need to improve his speed and man coverage skills to handle more athletic tight ends and receivers, Trader’s overall skill set provides a strong foundation for growth. With further development, he has the potential to become a reliable and impactful player.”
Pittsburgh Steelers27 of 32
Mike WilliamsScott Taetsch/Getty Images
MIke Williams might not be the star receiver that some Steelers fans were hoping the team would acquire before the trade deadline.
Regardless, he proved he could be just what the offense needs as he grabbed the 32-yard touchdown that would ultimately put the Steelers up for good with just over two minutes to go.
The 28-27 win was huge for the Steelers. Going on the road and beating a good Commanders team is evidence that Pittsburgh is going to be a factor come playoff time.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Offensive TackleInterior Offensive LineWide ReceiverCornerbackInterior Defensive LineMove to Make Now: Unleash Justin Fields in the Red Zone
The Steelers have struggled to finish drives with touchdowns. They ranked 30th in red zone touchdown rate heading into Week 10 at just 46.4 percent. Justin Fields was obviously involved as the quarterback, but his numbers inside the 20 are good. He was 13-of-19 for 102 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions while adding another five touchdowns on the ground.
Head coach Mike Tomlin has talked about the team having a “Justin Fields package” but we haven’t really seen it. The Steelers might need to get creative addressing the issue and Fields dual-threat ability could be just what the Steelers need.
2025 Free Agency: CB Byron Murphy, Minnesota Vikings
The Steelers signed Donte Jackson this offseason and he’s been a strong addition to the defense. The 29-year-old is putting together the best campaign of his career. Him overperforming his one-year contract is nice, but it means that he could be looking for more money next season and the Steelers might want to avoid handing a cornerback who will turn 30 a ton of money in free agency.
That money might be better spent on someone like Byron Murphy. The 27-year-old is thriving under Brian Flores in Minnesota. Of course, Flores was most recently with the Steelers before taking over as the defensive coordinator in Minnesota. He would show up to Pittsburgh and give them two corners who can press and play in an aggressive scheme.
2025 NFL Draft: WR Tre Harris, Ole Miss
The Steelers really need to find someone to pair with George Pickens on the outside. Adding Mike Williams at the trade deadline was a fine stopgap move, but drafting a legitimate prospect who could grow with this offense would be an ideal scenario outside of finding a long-term answer at quarterback.
At 6’2″ 205 pounds, Harris has better size than most of the receivers in this draft class. He isn’t going to win with pure speed, but he is a strong route runner who could develop into a solid No. 2 option for Pittsburgh.
San Francisco 49ers28 of 32
Christian McCaffreyKevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Getting Christian McCaffrey (ankle/Achilles) back in the lineup in Week 10 was big for the San Francisco 49ers. His return opens up options in both the running and passing games, even if he can’t fix every issue San Francisco has had this season.
The 49ers defense continues to be more good than great. And the biggest problem is turning scoring opportunities into points. San Francisco entered Week 10 with the league’s fifth-worst red-zone touchdown rate (48.6 percent), and kicker Jake Moody missed three of his six field goal attempts against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Defensive TackleCenterCornerback
Linebacker Depth
Wide Receiver
Move to Make Now: Design More Plays for Ricky Pearsall
Looking long-term, receiver isn’t a major need for the 49ers. However, Brandon Aiyuk’s season-ending knee injury is testing San Francisco’s depth in 2024. Kyle Shanahan’s best bet for the rest of the season is to get rookie first-round pick Ricky Pearsall more involved in the passing game.
The 49ers have gotten the Florida product involved in the passing and running games since his Week 7 debut (Pearsall opened the season injured reserve after being shot in a robbery attempt in late August). He scored his first NFL touchdown on Sunday, but there’s room to get him even more involved.
Pearsall possesses a skill set not wholly unlike that of Deebo Samuel, and it’s time to force opponents to view him as a serious threat. If defenses have to try covering Samuel, Pearsall, Jauan Jennings, George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey one-on-one, San Francisco’s mismatch potential will be through the roof.
2025 Free Agency: DT B.J. Hill, Cincinnati Bengals
The 49ers should be interested in reloading their defensive front in free agency. Cincinnati’s B.J. Hill would be a suitable addition to San Francisco’s 4-3 base defense.
Defensive tackle Kevin Givens is set to be a free agent, while fellow DT Javon Hargrave is recovering from a season-ending triceps tear. Hargrave will also turn 32 in February and could be a cap casualty in 2025 (releasing him with a post-June 1 designation would save $20.7 million in cap space).
Hill will turn 30 in April, but remains one of the league’s more disruptive interior defenders when fully healthy. He recorded 26 solo tackles and 4.5 sacks while starting all 17 games for the Bengals in 2023.
San Francisco’s ability to add a standout defender like Hill may hinge on Hargrave’s future with the team. The 49ers are currently projected to have $44.5 million in 2025 cap space but may have to consider extending quarterback Brock Purdy in the offseason.
2025 NFL Draft: CB Jahdae Barron, Texas
The 49ers could go in several directions in next year’s draft, depending on how free agency unfolds. Guard Aaron Banks, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, cornerback Charvarius Ward and nickel back Deommodore Lenoir are among San Francisco’s impending free agents.
Given San Francisco’s cap situation and the market price of premium corners, targeting a defensive back early in the draft would be smart. The B/R Scouting Department paired San Francisco with Texas’ Jahdae Barron in its latest mock draft.
“Barron’s ability to cover larger receivers and tight ends would address a critical need for the 49ers, who value defensive backs who are capable of handling multiple roles in the secondary,” Giddings said.
Just as John Lynch targeted Pearsall to prepare for the future at receiver (2025 will be a contract year for Samuel), he could target Barron even if Ward and/or Lenoir are retained.
Seattle Seahawks29 of 32
Geno SmithSteph Chambers/Getty Images
The bye week gave the Seattle Seahawks a chance to regroup after two consecutive losses—and five losses in six games—dropped them to 4-5.
With upcoming games against San Francisco and Arizona, Seattle can get back into the NFC West picture. However, it has looming questions on defense and along the offensive line that need to be answered, which will be much easier in theory than in practice.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Right Tackle
GuardDefensive Tackle
2nd Safety
2nd Cornerback
Move to Make Now: Sign OT Devin Cochran
The offensive line has been a significant issue for Seattle this season, and there might not be a clear solution on the Seahawks’ roster. Rookie third-round pick Christian Haynes probably deserves more opportunities at guard, but he was a healthy scratch in Week 9, and Seattle doesn’t appear to believe he’s ready for a significant role.
“Guys that bring it every day and show up in practice and show up in games and help us win, they’re going to play,” head coach Mike Macdonald said when discussing Haynes, per Mookie Alexander of SBNation. “If you take a step back, then you’ve got to be accountable.”
With right tackle George Fant dealing with a knee injury, Seattle may turn back to rookie sixth-round pick Michael Jerrell. Finding additional depth would be logical.
Seattle should consider poaching Devin Cochran, who has twice been elevated from the Bengals’ practice squad this season and was active for Thursday’s game against Baltimore.
2025 Free Agency: DT Osa Odighizuwa, Dallas Cowboys
A lot can and will change between now and the offseason, but Seattle is projected to be $10.8 million over the salary cap in 2025. If the Seahawks can find the financial flexibility to target a starting-caliber defensive tackle, Dallas’ Osa Odighizuwa would be a logical target.
Seattle’s run defense has been suspect this season, while Jarran Reed and Johnathan Hankins are both impending 2025 free agents. Odighizuwa has been a regular starter for Dallas since the Cowboys selected him in the third round of the 2021 draft.
The 6’2″, 280-pound Odighizuwa should be able to shift between tackle and end, and he won’t turn 27 until August. He also has experience playing under defensive coordinator Aden Durde, who spent the last three seasons as Dallas’ defensive line coach.
2025 NFL Draft: OL Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona
If the Seahawks don’t target the offensive line early and often next April, it’ll be a surprise. The team has question marks at both guard and right tackle, and its list of impending free agents includes starters Connor Williams and Laken Tomlinson.
Landing Arizona’s Jonah Savaiinaea early would give Seattle a high-end prospect while maintaining some flexibility in the draft. Savaiinae has spent time at guard and tackle, and while he’s probably best suited to play inside, he could fill either position.
“Savaiinaea is a functional right tackle with heavy hands to snap rushers’ heads back when his timing is right before quickly engulfing them or using his signature snatch-trap technique to end the rep quickly,” Thorn wrote.
Theoretically, the Seahawks could take him early and come back for the best guard or right tackle prospect available with their next pick—without having to single out either position specifically.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers30 of 32
Baker MayfieldKevin Sabitus/Getty Images
Though the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ defense fell short late against the 49ers on Sunday, Baker Mayfield and the offense continue to keep the Bucs in games. Tampa still has a chance to make a postseason push, especially if it can get healthier during the Week 11 bye.
Star offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs left Sunday’s game with a knee injury and did not return. The Buccaneers may have dodged a bullet, though. According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, it appears to be an MCL injury that will allow Wirfs to return this season.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Wide ReceiverEdge-RusherDefensive TackleTight EndGuardMove to Make Now: Play LB J.J. Russell more
K.J. Britt has been awful in coverage this season, earning a 34.9 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus heading into this weekend. It’s time to give someone else a shot and Russell had a good showing against the Chiefs. Granted, it sounds like this change might already be in the works as Todd Bowles had good things to say about the young linebacker last week.
“J.J. has become, in practice, a very good zone-awareness guy and especially in the passing game,” Bowles said via JoeBucsFan.com. “So we started using him some [against the Chiefs] and he played very well.”
2025 Free Agency: Edge Dante Fowler Jr., Washington Commanders
Tampa Bay could use some help at edge-rusher now and that’s only going to get worse in the offseason when Joe Tryon-Shoyinka and Anthony Nelson become free agents.
While Fowler doesn’t offer much run support, he can be a good sub-package pass rusher. The 30-year-old gets after the quarterback as he has 51.5 career sacks, including 6.5 through nine games this fall.
2025 NFL Draft: G Donovan Jackson, Ohio State
Ben Bredeson’s contract expires in the offseason which would leave the team with a need for a starting guard. Meanwhile, the Ohio State product has the potential to become an immediate starter at the next level.
“Jackson is best as a downhill run-blocker, being thick and heavy on vertical double-teams with connected elbows and hips to generate displacement,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. “He is a functional puller who can seal or kick the end man on the line of scrimmage and has a good feel on when to stay or release on zone combinations.
“…[Jackson] has the necessary build, raw strength and enough movement skills to compete for a job as a rookie and potentially start within his first contract if he can continue to tighten up his game from the ground up.”
Tennessee Titans31 of 32
Will LevisHarry How/Getty Images
Will Levis’ return to the lineup didn’t result in a win for the Titans. The second-year quarterback was constantly on the run as he took seven sacks behind the Tennessee offensive line.
Still, there were positives to take away. The Titans averaged 6.3 yards per carry and Levis was 18-of-23 for 175 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions.
The Titans have clear needs lined out on the offensive line and with the pass-catching weapons moving forward. That should at least help general manager Ran Carthon formulate a plan for next offseason.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Right TackleInterior Defensive LineTight EndQuarterbackWide ReceiverMove to Make Now: Stick with QB Will Levis
The league has never been more about instant gratification. About a quarter of the league’s coaches get fired every year, teams are benching second-year quarterbacks and there’s a general sense of urgency that isn’t quite like it used to be. It’s not necessarily a good thing.
In the Titans case, going away from Will Levis would be the latest case of impatience hurting a team. Sticking with Levis will make one of two things happen. Either he shows real growth over the last half of the season and earns another season or he flames out fantastically and the Titans know they have to go shopping for their guy next season. Playing Mason Rudolph does nothing for them.
2025 Free Agency: CB Nate Hobbs, Las Vegas Raiders
The Titans had three off-ball linebackers play 100 percent of the snaps in a game two weeks ago. They also rarely play more than two corners and rarely deploy three safeties. In a league where team’s “base” defenses are considered their changeups, the Titans just don’t have the positional flexibility to get different packages on the field right now.
Signing a slot specialist could help. That’s always been where Nate Hobbs has thrived for the Raiders. He has the ability to bump outside if he needs too, but the combination of L’Jarius Sneed, Roger McCreary and Nate Hobbs could be a good trio that allows the Titans to play nickel more next year.
2025 NFL Draft: WR Tez Johnson, Oregon
The Titans offense is in desperate need of a face lift. Whether Will Levis can become the quarterback or not, they have to upgrade their weaponry. Tyler Boyd was a smart addition for this season as a veteran with knowledge of Brian Callahan’s system. However, targeting a dyanamic playmaker with a lot more juice in Tez Johnson could help usher in a new era of Titans offense.
“Tez Johnson is a quick-twitch route runner out of the slot with long speed,” Dame Parson said of Johnson’s skill set. “Johnson excels on option routes matched up against safeties and linebackers. He will be the motion receiver in the offense to create advantageous opportunities to get him the football in space. Johnson is an explosive playmaker.”
Washington Commanders32 of 32
Commanders QB Jayden DanielsScott Taetsch/Getty Images
While Washington’s 28-27 loss to Pittsburgh was disappointing, it should do nothing to lower future expectations for the franchise.
The Commanders have their coach in Dan Quinn and their quarterback in rookie Jayden Daniels, and they’re getting plenty out of a patchwork roster to contend in 2024.
Washington’s 7-3 record is no mirage, and with the most important pieces in place, the Commanders can focus on turning this team into a perennial contender.
Biggest Weaknesses:
Defensive TackleCornerbackOffensive TackleFree SafetyWide ReceiverMove to Make Now: None
Sticking with Cornelius Lucas at left tackle instead of having him rotate with Brandon Coleman was considered here, but Coleman has shown a lot of growth lately. The Commanders also upgraded their cornerback room with Marshon Lattimore at the trade deadline and the team is rolling right now so there’s no need to change things up.
2025 Free Agency: S Budda Baker, Arizona Cardinals
As mentioned last week, Quan Martin has been struggling in coverage this season. Also, Jeremy Chinn is only on a one-year deal, so Washington should take a hard look at this year’s safety class in free agency.
Baker will be one of the top players available at the position this offseason and the organization can afford to open the checkbook for him as it’s currently projected to have over $100 million in cap space available, per Over The Cap.
The six-time Pro Bowler is a playmaker who can line up all over the field, racking up 828 total tackles and 41 TFL in 114 career games heading into this weekend.
2025 NFL Draft: LB Lander Barton, Utah
Bobby Wagner, Nick Bellor and Mykal Walker are all impending free agents this offseason. Even after using a fifth-round pick on Jordan Magee last April, Adam Peters should look into this year’s linebacker class and the Utah product could develop into a complete player at the next level.
Barton comes from an athletic family and it shows in his play. Movement skills are the foundation of his game as he has plenty of athleticism and loose hips to be effective in man coverage as well as tighten throwing windows when playing zone. That also helps him avoid the trash against the run and execute gap exchanges as he can move laterally with ease.
Against the run, Barton is physical and has some pop behind his pads when coming downhill. However, that may not translate well to the next level as he struggles to hold his ground and get off blocks against more physical offensive linemen. For example, Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga got the best of the Ute when those two went head-to-head in 2023.
The Ute needs to develop a move to help disengage from blocks and/or learn how to use his quickness and athleticism to slip blocks from offensive linemen claiming to the second level. That will help him be more effective against the run early in his career while his strength improves.
