Projecting Every NFL Team’s Starting Lineup for 2024

Projecting Every NFL Team’s Starting Lineup for 20240 of 8

Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthyNick Wosika/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The draft is officially in the rear-view mirror, rookie minicamps are underway and the free-agent market is just about picked over. With the schedule coming out later this week, the 2024 season is starting to come into focus.

NFL front offices are always looking for ways to improve the roster, but the truth is this time of year is more about evaluating the players on the roster.

With that in mind, it’s a good time to take a look around the league and get a sense for what each team’s starting lineup is going to look like.

For the sake of uniformity, we’ll be listing 11 personnel for offense and nickel personnel for defense. That means one running back, one tight end and three receivers for the offenses and four defensive linemen, two off-ball linebackers and five defensive backs for each defense.

While each team has different tendencies, it’s standard for those to be the base personnel packages for most teams around the league.

Here’s a look at the players each team could be putting on the field this season.

AFC East1 of 8

Drake Maye and NFL commissioner Roger GoodellJohn Smolek/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Buffalo Bills

Offense: QB Josh Allen, RB James Cook, WR Keon Coleman, WR Curtis Samuel, WR Khalil Shakir, TE Dalton Kincaid, OT Dion Dawkins, OG David Edwards, C Connor McGovern, RG O’Cyrus Torrence, RT Spencer Brown

Defense: DE Greg Rousseau, DT Ed Oliver, DT DaQuan Jones, DE A.J. Epenesa, LB Matt Milano, LB Terrel Bernard, CB Christian Benford, CB Rasul Douglas, NB Taron Johnson, S Taylor Rapp, S Mike Edwards

The Bills are going to look quite different on both sides of the ball in 2024. On offense, the receiver room looks vastly different. Keon Coleman will need to be an immediate starter and Khalil Shakir needs to break out after showing promise last season.

Von Miller wasn’t a starter last year but needs to give production that’s closer to his pay. The battle between Mike Edwards and Cole Bishop at safety is one to watch. The rookie should push for the starting job in camp.

Miami Dolphins

Offense: QB Tua Tagovailoa, RB Raheem Mostert, WR Tyreek Hill, WR Jaylen Waddle, WR Odell Beckham Jr., TE Jonnu Smith, LT Terron Armstead, LG Isaiah Wynn, C Aaron Brewer, RG Robert Jones, RT Austin Jackson

Defense: Edge Bradley Chubb, DL Jonathan Harris, DT Zach Sieler, Edge Jaelan Phillips, LB David Long Jr., LB Jordyn Brooks, CB Kendall Fuller, CB Jalen Ramsey, NB Kader Kohou, S Jordan Poyer, S Jevon Holland

It’s worth noting that the Dolphins spent just 44 percent of their snaps in 11 personnel. It was still their most utilized personnel grouping, but they put fullback Alec Ingold in the game and ran 21 personnel at the highest rate in the league. That could change in 2024 as the team added Odell Beckham Jr. to the equation and Mike McDaniel will look to evolve the offense in 2024.

Defensively, there aren’t a lot of mysteries to figure out. They have to deal with some major losses like Xavien Howard and Christian Wilkins, but they have reasonable succession plans in place.

New England Patriots

Offense: QB Jacoby Brissett, RB Rhamondre Stevenson, WR Ja’Lynn Polk, WR Kendrick Bourne, WR DeMario Douglas, TE Hunter Henry, LT Vederian Lowe, LG Cole Strange, C David Andrews, RG Sidy Sow, RT Mike Onwenu

Defense: Edge Keion White, DT Davon Godchaux, DT Christian Barmore, Edge Matthew Judon, LB Ja’Whaun Bentley, LB Jahlani Tavai, CB Jonathan Jones, CB Christian Gonzalez, NB Marcus Jones, S Kyle Dugger, S Jabrill Peppers

Fans are going to want to see what Drake Maye can do, but The Boston Globe’s Andrew Callahan recently reported that the plan is for Jacoby Brissett to start even if some in the Patriots building believe the rookie can play right away. Even if the rookie can play right away, there’s no reason to rush him into playing with this supporting cast.

The Patriots are an unfinished project on offense. Ja’Lynn Polk will be expected to be an immediate contributor and fellow rookie Javon Baker could also be in the mix. The left tackle battle between Vederian Lowe, Chukwuma Okorafor and third-round pick Caedan Wallace doesn’t inspire confidence. The Pats must be patient.

New York Jets

Offense: QB Aaron Rodgers, RB Breece Hall, WR Garrett Wilson, WR Mike Williams, WR Malachi Corley, TE Tyler Conklin, LT Tyron Smith, LG John Simpson, C Joe Tippmann, RG Alijah Vera-Tucker, RT Morgan Moses

Defense: DE Jermaine Johnson, DT Quinnen Williams, DT Javon Kinlaw, Edge Haason Reddick, LB Quincy Williams, LB C.J. Mosley, CB Sauce Gardner, CB D.J. Reed, NB Michael Carter II, S Chuck Clark, S Tony Adams

What happens with Olu Fashanu will be interesting to watch in camp. He’s one of the best prospects in this draft class, but Tyron Smith is still a great option at tackle. However, Smith hasn’t played more than 13 games since 2015. It’s probably not worth trying to move Fashanu to another position to start early.

Malachi Corley has a good shot of making the starting lineup as a third-round pick. The Jets’ receiver depth is still an area of concern heading into the season.

AFC North2 of 8

Ja’Marr Chase and Tee HigginsIan Johnson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Baltimore Ravens

Offense: QB Lamar Jackson, RB Derrick Henry, WR Zay Flowers, WR Rashod Bateman, WR Nelson Agholor, TE Mark Andrews, LT Ronnie Stanley, LG Andrew Vorhees, C Tyler Linderbaum, RG Ben Cleveland, RT Roger Rosengarten

Defense: Edge Odafe Oweh, DT Michael Pierce, DT Justin Madubuike, Edge Kyle Van Noy, LB Roquan Smith, LB Trenton Simpson, CB Marlon Humphrey, CB Nate Wiggins, NB Arthur Maulet, S Kyle Hamilton, S Marcus Williams

The Ravens are another team whose three-receiver sets don’t adequately show the talent they have on offense. Isaiah Likely is one of the best pass-catching options they have when they play him with Mark Andrews. The offensive line is a real concern for 2024. Roger Rosengarten is on track to compete with Daniel Faalele at right tackle. Ronnie Stanley and Tyler Linderbaum are the only returning starters.

Cincinnati Bengals

Offense: QB Joe Burrow, RB Zack Moss, WR Ja’Marr Chase, WR Tee Higgins, WR Jermaine Burton, TE Mike Gesicki, LT Orlando Brown Jr., LG Cordell Volson, C Ted Karras, RG Alex Cappa, RT Trent Brown

Defense: DE Sam Hubbard, DT B.J. Hill, DT Sheldon Rankins, DE Trey Hendrickson, LB Germaine Pratt, LB Logan Wilson, CB Cam Taylor-Britt, CB DJ Turner II, NB Mike Hilton, S Jordan Battle, S Geno Stone

If the Bengals can avoid major injuries they will once again have an elite offense. Most of the names are familiar and they have the added insurance of first-round pick Amarius Mims waiting in the wings if either tackle goes down. The battle to be the third receiver will be interesting, but third-round pick Jermaine Burton has the talent to win out.

Defensively, it’s the safety position that’s hard to pick out the starters. Vonn Bell returns after a year with the Carolina Panthers and Geno Stone had a great season with the Ravens last season. However, Jordan Battle did enough as a rookie to believe he can win a spot.

Cleveland Browns

Offense: QB Deshaun Watson, RB Jerome Ford, WR Amari Cooper, WR Jerry Jeudy, WR Elijah Moore, TE David Njoku, LT Jedrick Wills, LG Joel Bitonio, C Ethan Pocic, RG Wyatt Teller, RT Jack Conklin

Defense: DE Myles Garrett, DT Dalvin Tomlinson, DT Shelby Harris, DE Za’Darius Smith, LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, LB Jordan HIcks, CB Denzel Ward, CB Martin Emerson Jr., NB Greg Newsome II, S Grant Delpit, S Juan Thornhill

The Browns should again boast one of the league’s defenses, but the offense has questions regarding health.

The starter at running back is going to depend on how quickly Nick Chubb can be at full-go after the devastating knee injury that cut his season short last season. All three offensive tackles had their season end with surgeries as well. Dawand Jones could really push Jack Conklin to be the starter if he comes back more healthy from his operation.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Offense: QB Russell Wilson, RB Najee Harris, WR George Pickens, WR Van Jefferson, WR Roman Wilson, TE Pat Freiermuth, LT Troy Fautanu, LG Isaac Seumalo, C Zach Frazier, RG James Daniels, RT Broderick Jones

Defense: Edge T.J. Watt, DT Cameron Heyward, DT Keeanu Benton, Edge Alex Highsmith, LB Patrick Queen, LB Elandon Roberts, CB Joey Porter Jr., CB Donte Jackson, NB Darius Rush, S Minkah Fitzpatrick, S DeShon Elliott

This exercise really shows how much the Steelers have worked to improve their offensive line. James Daniels is the longest-tenured starter there and he’s been on the roster since 2022. The rookies—Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier—will have to unseat veterans, but both are highly talented prospects who can and should. They’ll need to be successful right away for the new-look passing game to have success early with Russell Wilson.

The secondary is the interesting unit on defense. Darius Rush is inexperienced as a slot corner, but the Steelers could opt to play Minkah Fitzpatrick there and add safety Damonte Kazee to the starting lineup.

AFC South3 of 8

C.J. StroudRob Carr/Getty Images

Houston Texans

Offense: QB C.J. Stroud, RB Joe Mixon, WR Stefon Diggs, WR Nico Collins, WR Tank Dell, TE Dalton Schultz, LT Laremy Tunsil, LG Kenyon Green, C Juice Scruggs, RG Shaq Mason, RT Tytus Howard

Defense: DE Will Anderson Jr., DT Foley Fatukasi, DT Denico Autry, DE Danielle Hunter, LB Azeez Al-Shaair, LB Christian Harris, CB Derek Stingley Jr., CB Jeff Okudah, NB Kamari Lassiter, S Jimmie Ward, S Jalen Pitre

The Texans have positioned themselves to go from upstart to bona fide contender in 2024. They certainly have the skill players around C.J. Stroud to field an elite offense. It just comes down to deciding a few offensive line positions. Kenyon Green, who missed all of the season with a shoulder injury, will be a key puzzle piece.

Defensively, it will be interesting to see what happens with their secondary. Jimmie Ward’s ability to play the slot could decide whether rookie Kamari Lassiter starts there or fellow rookie Calen Bullock starts at safety.

Indianapolis Colts

Offense: QB Anthony Richardson, RB Jonathan Taylor, WR Michael Pittman Jr., WR Alec Pierce, WR Josh Down, TE Jelani Woods, LT Bernhard Raimann, LG Quenton Nelson, C Ryan Kelly, RG Will Fries, RT Braden Smith

Defense: DE Laiatu Latu, DT Grover Stewart, DT DeForest Buckner, DE Kwity Paye, LB E.J. Speed, LB Zaire Franklin, CB JuJu Brents, CB Dallis Flowers, NB Kenny Moore II, S Julian Blackmon, S Nick Cross

The Colts weren’t very busy this offseason. There aren’t many new faces in either starting lineup but they’ll hope that Anthony Richardson can stay healthy and build on the flashes of promise he showed when healthy as a rookie. Rookie Adonai Mitchell should push Alec Pierce for the starting role opposite Pittman Jr.

On defense, there are still questions about the secondary. A veteran free agent to start over Dallis Flowers or Jaylon Jones would be a wise investment.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Offense: QB Trevor Lawrence, RB Travis Etienne Jr., WR Gabe Davis, WR Brian Thomas Jr., WR Christian Kirk, TE Evan Engram, LT Cam Robinson, LG Ezra Cleveland, C Mitch Morse, RG Brandon Scherff, RT Anton Harrison

Defense: DE Josh Allen, DT Roy Robertson-Harris, DT Arik Armstead, DE Josh Allen, LB Devin Lloyd, LB Foyesade Oluokun, CB Ronald Darby, CB Tyson Campbell, NB Antonio Johnson, S Andre Cisco, S Darnell Savage

This feels like a huge season for Trevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars. They were in prime position to win the division at the beginning of 2023 but the Texans emerged as the new favorite. As Lawrence enters the penultimate season of his rookie contract, he is going to have to elevate the offense without Calvin Ridley.

Defensively, the slot position and safety group were the most interesting to project. Antonio Johnson is a safety but has done some of his best work in the slot. Free-agent addition Darnell Savage can play there as well, though. Either way, expect a lot of three-safety looks.

Tennessee Titans

Offense: QB Will Levis, RB Tony Pollard, WR Calvin Ridley, WR DeAndre Hopkins, WR Tyler Boyd, TE Chigoziem Okonkwo, LT JC Latham, LG Peter Skoronski, C Lloyd Cushenberry, RG Daniel Brunskill, RT Dillon Radunz

Defense: Edge Harold Landry III, DT Jeffery Simmons, DT Sebastian Joseph-Day, Edge Arden Key, LB Jack Gibbens, LB Kenneth Murray Jr., CB L’Jarius Sneed, CB Chidobe Awuzie, NB Roger McCreary, S Malik Hooker, S Elijah Molden

One thing is for sure, this is not the same Titans roster that went 6-11 last season. Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd bring a lot of credibility to the receiver group, and every offensive line spot has a solid plan in place with the exception of right tackle. Dillon Radunz could step up and take the job, but he’ll have to beat Nicholas Petit-Frere in camp at this point.

The defense has plenty of new faces as well. Most notably, L’Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie change the tenor of this secondary.

AFC West4 of 8

Jim HarbaughAllen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Denver Broncos

Offense: QB Bo Nix, RB Javonte Williams, WR Courtland Sutton, WR Josh Reynolds, WR Marvin Mims Jr., TE Greg Dulcich, LT Garett Bolles, LG Ben Powers, C Luke Wattenberg, RG Quinn Meinerz, RT Mike McGlinchey

Defense: Edge Baron Browning, DT Zach Allen, DT John Franklin-Myers, Edge Jonathan Cooper, LB Cody Barton, LB Alex Singleton, CB Patrick Surtain II, CB Levi Wallace, NB Ja’Quan McMillian, S Brandon Jones, S Caden Sterns

Will Bo Nix start in Week 1? That’s one of the questions that will hover over the Broncos until they make a decision. Given that Nix is 24 years old with 61 collegiate starts under his belt, it would be concerning if the answer isn’t yes. Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham are the other options.

The Broncos continued to make investments in the front seven on defense. Rookie Jonah Elliss might not start right away, but he’ll find his way into the rotation. John Franklin-Myers’ versatility will pair nicely with Zach Allen to play multiple fronts.

Kansas City Chiefs

Offense: QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Isiah Pacheco, WR Xavier Worthy, WR Marquise Brown, WR Xavier Worthy, TE Travis Kelce, LT Wanya Morris, LG Joe Thuney, C Creed Humphrey, RG Trey Smith, RT Jawaan Taylor

Defense: DE George Karlaftis, DT Chris Jones, DT Derrick Nnadi, DE Charles Omenihu, LB Drue Tranquill, LB Nick Bolton, CB Jaylen Watson, CB Joshua Williams, NB Trent McDuffie, S Justin Reid, S Bryan Cook

It’s scary to look at the lineup of the back-to-back defending champions and see how few holes there are. Most of these starters are back after successful seasons last year. L’Jarius Sneed was a key cog, but they’ve drafted and developed well in the secondary. The receiver room is a bit worrisome, but we’ve seen Mahomes and Andy Reid MacGyver great offenses with less.

Las Vegas Raiders

Offense: QB Gardner Minshew II, RB Zamir White, WR Davante Adams, WR Jakobi Meyers, WR Tre Tucker, TE Brock Bowers, LT Kolton Miller, LG Dylan Parham, C Andre James, RG Jackson Powers-Johnson, RT Thayer Munford Jr.

Defense: DE Maxx Crosby, DT Christian Wilkins, DT John Jenkins, DE Malcolm Koonce, LB Robert Spillane, LB Divine Deablo, CB Jack Jones, CB Brandon Facyson, NB Nate Hobbs, S Tre’von Moehrig, S Marcus Epps

Gardner Minshew II and Aidan O’Connell will compete for the starting quarterback job over the summer. Minshew proved he can keep an offense going with the Colts last season and he’ll have plenty to work with in Vegas. The Raiders’ surprising decision to draft Brock Bowers gives them a vertical mismatch threat who will make life easier.

The right tackle spot could be interesting. Thayer Munford Jr. has an experience advantage with 14 starts over the last two seasons, but DJ Glaze could compete for it as a rookie.

Los Angeles Chargers

Offense: QB Justin Herbert, RB J.K. Dobbins, WR Quentin Johnston, WR Josh Palmer, WR Ladd McConkey, TE Will Dissly, LT Rashawn Slater, LG Zion Johnson, C Bradley Bozeman, RG Jamaree Salyer, RT Joe Alt

Defense: Edge Khalil Mack, DT Poona Ford, DT Morgan Fox, Edge Joey Bosa, LB Denzel Perryman, LB Junior Colson, CB Asante Samuel Jr., CB Kristian Fulton, NB Ja’Sir Taylor, S Derwin James Jr., S Alohi Gilman

It didn’t take long for Jim Harbaugh and new general manager Joe Hortiz to build an offense that feels right for the former Michigan coach. There’s a lot of talent on the offensive line, and former Ravens running backs J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards are a physical tandem when healthy. The receiving corps just has a lot of questions.

That should open the door for rookie Ladd McConkey to become a quick starter. Junior Colson could join him as a rookie starter on defense. As a linebacker for Harbaugh’s Wolverines, he knows the system, and his athleticism is a good complement to Perryman on the inside.

NFC East5 of 8

Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and quarterback Jayden DanielsScott Taetsch/Getty Images

Dallas Cowboys

Offense: QB Dak Prescott, RB Ezekiel Elliott, WR CeeDee Lamb, WR Brandin Cooks, WR Jalen Tolbert, TE Jake Ferguson, LT Tyler Guyton, LG Tyler Smith, C Cooper Beebe, RG Zack Martin, RT Terence Steele

Defense: DE DeMarcus Lawrence, DT Osa Odighizuwa, DT Mazi Smith, DE Micah Parsons, LB Damone Cark, LB Eric Kendricks, CB Trevon Diggs, CB DaRon Bland, NB Jourdan Lewis, S Donovan Wilson, S Malik Hooker

There’s been some hand-wringing about the Cowboys’ inactivity this offseason. It’s warranted, but a look at the projected starting lineup is a good reminder that this is still a good football team. Many of the starters on a team that went 12-5 are back on both sides of the ball.

The biggest question might be on the offensive line where rookies Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe could both be Week 1 starters. Guyton was a first-round pick and Beebe will compete with Brock Hoffman to replace Tyler Biadasz at center. Both are talented prospects, but there could be some struggles along the way.

New York Giants

Offense: QB Daniel Jones, RB Devin Singletary, WR Malik Nabers, WR Darius Slayton, WR Wan’Dale Robinson, TE Darren Waller, LT Andrew Thomas, LG Jon Runyan, C John Michael Schmitz, RG Jermaine Eluemunor, RT Evan Neal

Defense: Edge Kayvon Thibodeaux, DT Dexter Lawrence, DT Jordan Phillips, Edge Brian Burns, LB Bobby Okereke, LB Micah McFadden, CB Deonte Banks, CB Nick McCloud, NB Dru Phillips, S Tyler Nubin, S Jason Pinnock

The pressure is on Daniel Jones to prove that he can be the Giants’ franchise quarterback moving forward. The circumstances on offense are better with the arrival of Malik Nabers and improved depth on the offensive line.

Questions abound in the secondary. Deonte Banks will be the team’s top corner after starting 15 games last season, but the spot across from his is up for grabs with Nick McCloud, Tre Hawkins III and Cor’Dale Flott as possibilities. Rookie Dru Phillips could be the favorite to start in the slot.

Philadelphia Eagles

Offense: QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley, WR A.J. Brown, WR DeVonta Smith, WR DeVante Parker, TE Dallas Goedert, LT Jordan Mailata, LG Landon Dickerson, C Cam Jurgens, RG Tyler Steen, RT Lane Johnson

Defense: DE Josh Sweat, DT Jalen Carter, DT Jordan Davis, DE Bryce Huff, LB Nakobe Dean, LB Devin White, CB Darius Slay Jr., CB Quinyon Mitchell, NB C.J. Gardner-Johnson, S Reed Blankenship, S Sydney Brown

The Eagles were aggressive in patching some holes this offseason to make sure they finish stronger in 2024 than they did in 2023. On offense that meant signing Saquon Barkley to take over for D’Andre Swift, signing some secondary receiving options in DeVante Parker and Parris Campbell and making a lot of changes to the defense.

Not only will Vic Fangio be coming in to run the defense, but he’ll have a whole lot of new starting options including first-round pick Quinyon Mitchell, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Bryce Huff and Devin White.

Washington Commanders

Offense: QB Jayden Daniels, RB Austin Ekeler, WR Terry McLaurin, WR Jahan Dotson, WR Olamide Zaccheaus, TE Zach Ertz, LT Cornelius Lucas, LG Nick Alegretti, C Tyler Biadasz, RG Sam Cosmi, RT Andrew Wylie

Defense: DE Dorance Armstrong Jr., DT Jonathan Allen, DT Daron Payne, DE Dante Fowler Jr., LB Frankie Luvu, LB Bobby Wagner, CB Emmanuel Forbes, CB Benjamin St. Juste, NB Mike Sainristil, S Jeremy Chinn, S Darrick Forrest

The Commanders are kicking off a new era in just about every way in 2024. New general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn got to work on overhauling the roster, and it shows. Neither of these lineups look much like the 2023 Commanders that went 4-13.

There are still plenty of questions, but they have good weapons around rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. His athleticism and a supporting cast that includes Ekeler, McLaurin and Dotson should allow him to have early success. Defensively, Dan Quinn brought enough talent with him to get a head start installing his scheme and culture.

NFC North6 of 8

Bears quarterback Caleb WilliamsMichael Reaves/Getty Images

Chicago Bears

Offense: QB Caleb Williams, RB D’Andre Swift, WR DJ Moore, WR Rome Odunze, WR Keenan Allen, TE Cole Kmet, LT Braxton Jones, LG Teven Jenkins, C Ryan Bates, RG Nate Davis, RT Darnell Wright

Defense: DE Montez Sweat, DT Andrew Billings, DT Gervon Dexter St., DE DeMarcus Walker, LB Tremaine Edmunds, LB T.J. Edwards, CB Jaylon Johnson, CB Tyrique Stevenson, NB Kyler Gordon, S Jaquan Brisker, S Kevin Byard

Expectations are going to be sky-high for Caleb Williams. Given the Bears’ 7-10 record with Justin Fields and the fact that they added Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze to the receiver group, it’s fair to expect a lot from the No. 1 pick. Williams is taking over for a team that already has a lot of answers on offense.

Defensively, the Bears’ back seven is an impressive, young group. Kevin Byard was a strong veteran addition. The depth along the defensive line will be critical. Rookie Austin Booker and third-year player Dominique Robinson need to become rotational specialists.

Detroit Lions

Offense: QB Jared Goff, RB David Montgomery, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR Jameson Williams, WR Kalif Raymond, TE Sam LaPorta, LT Taylor Decker, LG Graham Glasgow, C Frank Ragnow, RG Kevin Zeitler, RT Penei Sewell

Defense: DE Marcus Davenport, DT DJ Reader, DT Alim McNeill, DE Aidan Hutchinson, LB Alex Anzalone, LB Jack Campbell, CB Carlton Davis, CB Terrion Arnold, NB Brian Branch, S Ifeatu Melifonwu, S Kerby Joseph

The Lions were close to breaking through in the NFC Championship Game last season, but a shaky secondary caught up with them. They spent the offseason doing what they can to make sure that doesn’t happen again with several new faces in the defensive backfield. First-round pick Terrion Arnold has the goods to be an immediate starter but they also have Amik Robertson and Emmanuel Moseley if that’s not the case.

The offense remains largely the same. The biggest question is whether Jameson Williams can finally grow into his potential and give the Lions a legit No. 2 receiver.

Green Bay Packers

Offense: QB Jordan Love, RB Josh Jacobs, WR Romeo Doubs, WR Christian Watson, WR Jayden Reed, TE Luke Musgrave, LT Rasheed Walker, LG Elgton Jenkins, C Josh Myers, RG Sean Rhyan, RT Zach Tom

Defense: Edge Rashan Gary, DT Kenny Clark, DT Devonte Wyatt, Edge Preston Smith, LB Quay Walker, LB Edgerrin Cooper, CB Jaire Alexander, CB Eric Stokes, NB Keisean Nixon, S Xavier McKinney, S Javon Bullard

There are two interesting questions as far as the offense is concerned. The first is whether first-round pick Jordan Morgan earns a starting role by Week 1. Rasheed Walker had good moments as the left tackle last season and Morgan has suboptimal length for an NFL tackle. The Packers will play their best five linemen, though. The other is whether Dontayvion Wicks is destined to take Christian Watson’s spot in the lineup after last season.

Defensively, the talent is there for Jeff Hafley to have a successful first season as defensive coordinator. Xavier McKinney is the safety they’ve needed for a long time.

Minnesota Vikings

Offense: QB Sam Darnold, RB Aaron Jones, WR Justin Jefferson, WR Jordan Addison, WR Brandon Powell, TE T.J. Hockenson, LT Christian Darrisaw, LG Blake Brandel, C Garrett Bradbury, RG Ed Ingram, RT Brian O’Neill

Defense: Edge Jonathan Greenard, DT Harrison Phillips, DT Jerry Tillery, Edge Dallas Turner, LB Blake Cashman, LB Ivan Pace Jr., CB Bryon Murphy Jr., CB Akayleb Evans, NB Josh Metellus, S Camryn Bynum, S Harrison Smith

Vikings fans might be clamoring to see J.J. McCarthy right away, but patience is a virtue. McCarthy was a top-10 pick based on his potential. He’s still just 21 years old and won’t turn 22 until January. There’s plenty of time.

“We’re not going to rush [McCarthy’s] development,” general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah told media. “We’re just going to do what’s best for the Vikings in the short and long term.”

That could mean Sam Darnold gets the keys to the offense early in the season before the rookie eventually takes over. With Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson at his disposal, Darnold could be surprisingly effective.

NFC South7 of 8

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield and wide receiver Mike EvansPerry Knotts/Getty Images

Atlanta Falcons

Offense: QB Kirk Cousins, RB Bijan Robinson, WR Drake London, WR Darnell Mooney, WR Rondale Moore, TE Kyle Pitts, LT Jake Matthews, LG Matthew Bergeron, C Drew Dalman, RG Chris Lindstrom, RT Kaleb McGary

Defense: Edge Arnold Ebiketie, DT David Onyemata, DT Grady Jarrett, Edge Lorenzo Carter, LB Kaden Elliss, LB Troy Andersen, CB A.J. Terrell, CB Clark Phillips III, NB Dee Alford, S Jessie Bates III, S Richie Grant

New offensive coordinator Zac Robinson will try his hand at maximizing the first-round pick trio of Bijan Robinson, Drake London and Kyle Pitts. It was an inconsistent group with Desmond Ridder at quarterback and head coach Arthur Smith running the offense. Kirk Cousins will provide the stable play at quarterback to change that in 2024. The question is how Darnell Mooney (free agency) and Rondale Moore (trade) step in as new additions.

The defense looks mostly the same as it did last season with rookies Brandon Dorlus, Ruke Orhorhoro and Bralen Trice potentially cracking the rotation.

Carolina Panthers

Offense: QB Bryce Young, RB Chuba Hubbard, WR Diontae Johnson, WR Adam Thielen, WR Xavier Legette, TE Tommy Tremble, LT Ikem Ekwonu, LG Damien Lewis, C Austin Corbett, RG Robert Hunt, RT Taylor Moton

Defense: Edge Jadeveon Clowney, DT Derrick Brown, DT Shy Tuttle, Edge D.J. Wonnum, LB Shaq Thompson, LB Josey Jewell, CB Jaycee Horn, CB Dane Jackson, NB Troy Hill, S Jordan Fuller, S Xavier Woods

The good news for the Panthers is that they are in a better position to see what Bryce Young can do in 2024. Trading for Diontae Johnson and drafting Xavier Legette adds some talent and skill-set diversity to their ranks at wide receiver. They also have new starting guards on the offensive line who should help.

The defense is mostly a cast of aging veterans around a few promising cornerstones like Jaycee Horn and Derrick Brown. The unit should at least be respectable if the cornerstones stay healthy.

New Orleans Saints

Offense: QB Derek Carr, RB Alvin Kamara, WR Chris Olave, WR Rashid Shaheed, WR A.T. Perry, TE Juwan Johnson, LT Trevor Penning, LG Nick Saldiveri, C Erik McCoy, RG Cesar Ruiz, RT Taliese Fuaga

Defense: DE Carl Granderson, DT Khalen Sanders, DT Bryan Bresee, DE Cam Jordan, LB Demario Davis, LB Pete Werner, CB Marshon Lattimore, CB Paulson Adebo, NB Alontae Taylor, S Tyrann Mathieu, S Jordan Howden

Saints head coach Dennis Allen has already publicly stated that the Saints are going to start first-round pick Taliese Fuaga at left tackle. However, veteran right tackle Ryan Ramczyk has not been healing from knee surgery as quickly as the team had hoped, so he might have to go to his more natural position by default. Left guard is the other offensive line position to keep an eye on after Andrus Peat’s departure.

The potential on defense is going to rely on the continued development of second-year player Bryan Bresee, the health of Chase Young and Kool-Aid McKinstry’s ability to come in and give them even more depth in the secondary.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Offense: QB Baker Mayfield, RB Rachaad White, WR Mike Evans, WR Chris Godwin, WR Trey Palmer, TE Cade Otton, LT Tristan Wirfs, LG Ben Bredeson, C Graham Barton, RG Cody Mauch, RT Luke Goedeke

Defense: Edge Yaya Diaby, DT Vita Vea, DT Calijah Kancey, Edge Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, LB K.J. Britt, LB Lavonte David, CB Zyon McCollum, CB Jamel Dean, NB Tykee Smith, S Antoine Winfield, S Jordan Whitehead

It feels like the Buccaneers fought fairly hard to keep the status quo this offseason. Mike Evans is back, they franchise-tagged Antoine Winfield and handed Baker Mayfield an extension. Graham Barton is a versatile offensive lineman who makes sense as the team’s Day 1 starter at center with the ability to move if there’s an injury.

The defense has a few more unknowns. Joe Tryon-Shoyinka is going to have to sink or swim without Shaquil Barrett. However, rookie Chris Braswell and free-agent signee Randy Gregory are lurking. Rookie Tykee Smith could also break the starting lineup as a slot specialist. The cornerback room is a little thin after trading away Carlton Davis.

NFC West8 of 8

Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II and head coach Mike MacdonaldSteph Chambers/Getty Images

Arizona Cardinals

Offense: QB Kyler Murray, RB James Conner, WR Marvin Harrison Jr., WR Michael Wilson, WR Greg Dortch, TE Trey McBride, LT Jonah Williams, LG Elijah Wilkinson, C Hjalte Froholdt, RG Will Hernandez, RT Paris Johnson Jr.

Defense: Edge BJ Ojulari, DT Justin Jones, DT Bilal Nichols, Edge Dennis Gardeck, LB Kyzir White, LB Mack Wilson Sr., CB Max Melton, CB Sean Murphy-Bunting, NB Garrett Williams, S Budda Baker, S Jalen Thompson

The Cardinals put to rest any questions about moving on from Kyler Murray in 2023. He played well enough down the stretch that the Cardinals were able to land the best receiver in the class. They added another weapon in Zay Jones. He’ll be added depth who could compete with Michael Wilson for snaps.

It’s hard to nail down a starting front seven for the Cards. Ultimately, Arizona has brought in a diverse group of defensive linemen who could allow Jonathan Gannon to play multiple defensive fronts.

Los Angeles Rams

Offense: QB Matthew Stafford, RB Kyren Williams, WR Cooper Kupp, WR Puka Nacua, WR Demarcus Robinson, TE Tyler Higbee, LT Alaric Jackson, LG Jonah Jackson, C Steve Avila, RG Kevin Dotson, RT Rob Havenstein

Defense: Edge Byron Young, DT Kobie Turner, DT Bobby Brown III, Edge Jared Verse, LB Christian Rozeboom, LB Ernest Jones IV, CB Tre’Davious White, CB Darious Williams, NB Cobie Durant, S Kamren Curl, S Russ Yeast

The Rams prioritized keeping Matthew Stafford clean by extending Kevin Dotson and signing Jonah Jackson to complete their offensive line. It’s mostly the same offense outside of the addition of Jackson.

Defensively, much of the Rams’ success is going to depend on a defensive line that is heavy on potential and light on experience. Jared Verse should start right away, and his Florida State teammate Braden Fiske should be a factor too. Byron Young and Kobie Turner will be asked to build on their rookie campaigns. The Rams will be a real problem if they all live up to expectations.

San Francisco 49ers

Offense: QB Brock Purdy, RB Christian McCaffrey, WR Brandon Aiyuk, WR Deebo Samuel, WR Ricky Pearsall, TE George Kittle, LT Trent Williams, LG Aaron Banks, C Jake Brendel, RG Jon Feliciano, RT Colton McKivitz

Defense: DE Nick Bosa, DT Maliek Collins, DT Javon Hargrave, DE Leonard Floyd, LB Dre Greenlaw, LB Fred Warner, CB Charvarius Ward, CB Ambry Thomas, NB Deommodore Lenoir, S Ji’Ayir Brown, S Talanoa Hufanga

The 49ers will once again have one of the most talented rosters in football. They have very few holes and head coach Kyle Shanahan has shown his ability to hide the ones they do have. The most intriguing question might involve rookies Ricky Pearsall and Dominick Puni. Both could compete for starting spots, but the Niners have the depth to be patient.

On defense, the cornerback situation is one to watch. Charvarius Ward is easily No. 1 but Ambry Thomas struggled last season. Rookie Renardo Green will be given an opportunity to compete and has some inside-out versatility.

Seattle Seahawks

Offense: QB Geno Smith, RB Kenneth Walker III, WR DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, TE Noah Fant, LT Charles Cross, LG Laken Tomlinson, C Olu Oluwatimi, RG Anthony Bradford, RT Cornelius Lucas

Defense: Edge Boye Mafe, DT Leonard Williams, DT Byron Murphy II, Edge Uchenna Nwosu, LB Tyrel Dodson, LB Jerome Baker, CB Michael Jackson, CB Riq Woolen, NB Devon Witherspoon, S Rayshawn Jenkins, S Julian Love

Mike Macdonald has big shoes to fill in Seattle, but he also has the talent on paper to make an immediate impact. The offense is largely the same as last season except for the interior offensive line. There are some questions there.

However, the defense is revamped in a way that Macdonald should have success right away. Byron Murphy II is a disruptor on the interior and an intriguing match with Leonard Williams. Tyrel Dodson and Jerome Baker are an athletic pairing in the middle. There’s some young talent in the secondary. Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon could be foundational pieces in the right system.