NFL Staff Wants: Prioritizing Each Roster’s Greatest Weaknesses Earlier than Week 15

The playoff image is changing into clearer, and so is the 2025 NFL draft order. Week 14 had a number of surprises however was in the end favorite-heavy within the win-loss columns.

Each week of the season, we’ll assess the state of every roster with a specific concentrate on its weaknesses. By the top of the marketing campaign, we’ll have constructed an enormous board for each crew primarily based on its largest wants and desires. The whole lot from quick holes to fill to the offseason participant carousel of free company and the 2025 NFL draft is taken under consideration.

The weaknesses right here will not be simply knee-jerk reactions to the weekend’s video games, however extra an overarching evaluation with each current and future roster-building in thoughts.

Additional evaluation of each NFL roster will publish every Monday all through the common season.

The Arizona Cardinals have proven loads of promise this season, however Sunday’s loss makes it 4 in a row and prices the membership the collection towards Seattle, which leads the division.

That possible pushes the Cardinals out of the playoffs, however the future is vibrant within the desert.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on WR Isaiah McKenzie

Greg Dortch has been fairly unproductive within the second half of the season. Heading into this weekend, he hadn’t recorded greater than 10 receiving yards in a sport since Week 6 and had simply six catches for 19 yards throughout that timeframe. So, the Cardinals ought to think about bringing in assist at slot receiver since they’re within the thick of the NFC West race.

Granted, McKenzie did not make an affect with the Colts final yr. Nevertheless, he’s simply two years faraway from having 423 yards and 4 touchdowns throughout the common season with the Payments. That makes the veteran wideout no less than value bringing in for a exercise.

2025 Free Company: G Aaron Banks, San Francisco 49ers

Arizona has a number of impending free brokers on the inside offensive line, together with beginning guards Will Hernandez and Evan Brown along with Trystan Colon, who has been filling in for Hernandez after the latter’s harm.

In the meantime, Banks is having the very best season of his profession with a 71.3 run-blocking grade and 22 pressures allowed (one sack) in 10 video games, per Pro Football Focus. Plus, it would be good to steal him from a division rival.

2025 NFL Draft: EDGE Mykel Williams, Georgia

Edge-defender is extensively anticipated to be one among Monti Ossenfort’s largest priorities within the draft.

The protection lacks expertise and has a number of gamers on the place whose contracts are about to run out, together with not too long ago acquired Baron Browning. So, the Georgia product is probably going on Ossenfort’s radar. Williams is not a completed product as a pass-rusher, however he has loads of instruments to work with.

“Proper now, he’ll often win with pure power and athleticism, and he has the quickness and basic motion expertise to develop,” B/R’s Matt Holder wrote in his scouting report. “Nevertheless, his use of fingers is subpar as offensive tackles usually make the primary important contact and thwart his strikes earlier than they’ll get began.

“Williams has flashed a strong lengthy arm and skill to win with energy, however he lacks a go-to transfer that he can win with within the NFL. Accidents having sidelined him at the start of the season imply he is misplaced precious reps to develop throughout the early levels of the marketing campaign.”

Kirk Cousins’ return to Minnesota ended with a fourth-quarter collapse by the Atlanta Falcons.

The sport was tied at 21 heading into the ultimate body, however three unanswered touchdowns from the Vikings led to a three-possession loss for Atlanta. That pushes the crew’s report beneath .500 and prices it the NFC South lead heading into the ultimate month of the common season as Tampa Bay took down Las Vegas.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Make the quarterback change

The Falcons are on a four-game dropping streak, and Cousins is an enormous motive the crew is floundering down the stretch. He is thrown eight interceptions with no touchdowns throughout these contests, and it is fairly clear he is misplaced a step.

Atlanta has gone from controlling its personal future to needing assist to make the playoffs and/or win the division, so it is time to give Michael Penix Jr. a shot earlier than it is too late.

2025 Free Company: EDGE Joseph Ossai, Cincinnati Bengals

Matthew Judon hasn’t lived as much as expectations this season and is an impending free agent. Lorenzo Carter’s contract can also be about to run out, which is able to heighten the protection’s want for a pass-rusher. The issue is the group is just projected to have about $7.5 million of cap house this offseason, per Over The Cap, so it must bargain-hunt.

Ossai would not have monitor report with solely 6.5 sacks in 42 profession video games heading into this weekend. However that ought to hold his price ticket down on the open market and the 24-year-old who turns 25 in April has loads of expertise. So, the entrance workplace could be taking a small gamble on a high-level athlete being a late bloomer and coming into his personal in yr 5.

2025 NFL Draft: S Malachi Moore, Alabama

Justin Simmons is just on a one-year deal, so Terry Fontenot might be on the lookout for some security assist in the draft. The Alabama product might be goal since he has an analogous ability set to Simmons’.

“Moore is a flexible security prospect from Alabama identified for his ball-hawking talents and vary as a deep security,” B/R’s Cory Giddings mentioned within the fifth-year senior’s scouting report. “Standing at 6’0”, 198 kilos, Moore combines his athleticism with sharp instincts, making him a precious asset in each deep protection and man-to-man conditions.

“His expertise in Alabama’s elite protection, alongside along with his capacity to contribute in numerous roles, positions him as a possible early-round decide within the 2025 NFL draft.”

Ideally, the Baltimore Ravens would have had their bye week a little bit earlier. They could have been in a position to get a little bit more healthy and extra ready to tackle a stretch of video games that has seen them go 3-3 over their final six. The excellent news is that two of these losses had been shut calls towards playoff groups (Pittsburgh and Philadelphia).

The Ravens have some issues to determine, however the additional relaxation and time to arrange for a four-game stretch that begins with the New York Giants might be the spark they should get again into the higher echelon of the AFC.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Add a kicker to the follow squad

This was the suggestion final week, however the Ravens nonetheless have not added a kicker, so right here we’re once more. Justin Tucker is in an all-time stoop. He is the very best kicker of a technology and has been regular for the Ravens, however he is additionally value them a number of video games with missed subject objectives this season.

A minimum of including somebody to the follow squad would give them a backup choice if Tucker cannot get this discovered earlier than the playoffs.

2025 Free Company: WR Noah Brown, Washington Commanders

The Ravens admitted to needing assist in the receiver room after they traded for Diontae Johnson. Sadly, that relationship hasn’t labored out. Johnson was suspended for a sport for conduct detrimental to the crew. Regardless, the necessity for an additional receiver to step up alongside Rahod Bateman and Zay Flowers is not going away.

They do not really want a celebrity. Tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Probably take a few of the playmaking burden away from the receivers. Somebody like Noah Brown might be reply. He’s an underrated receiver who has helped the Commanders offense get off the bottom this season. He is one other deep menace who may match the Ravens’ vertical passing sport.

If there is a weak point that is going to maintain this crew from reaching its potential, it is the depth of the cornerback room. Marlon Humphrey remains to be taking part in at a excessive degree, however he is additionally managed to remain uncharacteristically wholesome to date this yr. Rookie Nate Wiggins has performed effectively when on the sector, however he is handled accidents.

Drafting one other nook within the first spherical would give the Ravens an inexpensive substitute plan for Humphrey. He will be 29 subsequent season and can solely have two years left on his contract. Morrison might be part of the rotation as a rookie and probably take Humphrey’s job as he ages out.

Sunday was reminder that the Buffalo Payments have all the things they should make a Tremendous Bowl run on offense.

Josh Allen was peak Josh Allen with six complete touchdowns, changing into the first player in history to move for 3 and rush for 3 touchdowns in the identical sport. Sadly, it did not lead to a win. The Rams additionally confirmed that the Payments might need a number of flaws on protection that would hold them from making that run.

The Payments had been unable to cease the Rams’ passing assault. Matthew Stafford accomplished 23-of-30 makes an attempt for 320 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions, and Puka Nacua was particularly deadly with 12 receptions for 162 yards and a landing.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal Xavien Howard

Maybe that is the week that makes the Payments take a critical take a look at bringing in one other defensive again. This can be a crew that’s dangerously shut to assembling a Tremendous Bowl run, but it surely simply has a number of tweaks to make.

Signing Xavien Howard could be a reasonably low cost method to try to push the Payments excessive at this level. The 31-year-old allowed a passer rating of just 81.3 when focused final season.

2025 Free Company: S Xavier Woods, Carolina Panthers

The Payments will possible look to maneuver Cole Bishop into the beginning lineup in his second season. That must be the expectation primarily based on his draft pedigree. Nevertheless, Damar Hamlin is ready to develop into a free agent and the Payments may look to improve.

An missed veteran akin to Xavier Woods could be worth signing if that is the case. The 29-year-old has performed effectively in Carolina and given up a passer ranking of simply 66.5 when focused, per PFF.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Jack Sawyer, Ohio State

The Payments have proved this season they’ll transition away from some veteran gamers and stay a contender.

Sean McDermott and his workers have accomplished job of bringing in new gamers and growing them as contributors to a crew that would win the Tremendous Bowl.

The pinnacle coach might want to proceed that because the crew will get deeper into Allen’s contract. Which means changing guys like Von Miller and constructing depth with a participant akin to Jack Sawyer.

The Ohio State product will not be flashy, however he would offer the entrance with a strong run defender who is usually a secondary pass-rusher.

Matt Holder in contrast him to Sam Hubbard in his scouting report.

“General, Sawyer is usually a strong NFL starter as a hand-in-the-ground defensive finish for a crew that makes use of a whole lot of even fronts,” he mentioned. “His contributions as a pass-rusher will likely be restricted—in all probability a four-to-six-sack man at finest—however he is usually a issue towards the run.”

The Carolina Panthers suffered one other irritating loss Sunday, however the crew has to be ok with itself during the last 5 weeks.

Whereas Carolina is on a three-game dropping streak, all losses have come by one-possession to present playoff groups. The younger squad is taking strides in the suitable path and is additional forward of the place it was final yr regardless of proudly owning a 3-10 report.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: See what Jaden Crumedy can do

The Panthers have been looking for defensive tackles since Derrick Brown suffered a season-ending harm within the opener. The group activated Crumedy from injured reserve at the start of November, however he hadn’t performed in a regular-season sport as of Week 13.

The sixth-round decide turned some heads on the NFL Scouting Mix, and the crew is at some extent within the yr the place it must be giving younger gamers extra reps to develop.

2025 Free Company: WR Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals

Bryce Younger has performed effectively sufficient not too long ago to earn an opportunity at remaining the beginning quarterback in Carolina subsequent season, however the offense may use some additional weapons for Younger to throw to.

Higgins will possible be the highest huge receiver in free company since he’ll be simply 26 years previous in January and has No. 1 receiver potential. In the meantime, the entrance workplace is projected to have about $33.6 million of cap house within the offseason, per Over The Cap, to assist make this pairing occur.

2025 NFL Draft: EDGE Abdul Carter, Penn State

Whereas the Panthers might not have a direct want at edge-rusher since Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum are underneath contract for 2025, these two will likely be free brokers after subsequent season.

That would make Carolina the proper scenario for Carter as he would possibly want a yr or two to develop within the professionals since he is new to the place, having lined up as an off-ball linebacker throughout his first two seasons at Penn State. “Carter is an elite athlete, which provides him a excessive ceiling as a pass-rusher on the subsequent degree,” the Nittany Lion’s scouting report says.

“His get-off could be very spectacular as he explodes off the road of scrimmage and might win with velocity across the edge when occasions up the snap. Additionally, he is proven an honest dip-rip transfer and the potential to develop a stick transfer as an inside counter along with his motion expertise.”

The Chicago Bears did not get the interim head coach bump as they bought thumped in San Francisco. That makes Chicago 0-6 on the street this yr, and the top of the season cannot come quickly sufficient.

All that is left to do over the following 4 weeks is plan for the offseason, together with determining who the suitable individual to steer Caleb Williams and the crew is shifting ahead.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Play Austin Booker extra

The Bears are taking part in for the long run, and Darrell Taylor is an impending free agent. Taylor has additionally been a disappointment this season, heading into this weekend with a career-low two sacks. That is an enormous motive edge-rusher is without doubt one of the crew’s largest weaknesses.

In the meantime, Booker hasn’t gotten a lot taking part in time this fall and may gain advantage from some additional reps. B/R’s Scouting Department was excessive on the Kansas product’s potential, so it would be value it to provide him extra taking part in time to assist his improvement.

2025 Free Company: CB Mike Hughes, Atlanta Falcons

Tyrique Stevenson’s time on the sector has been diminished not too long ago as he is been splitting reps with Terell Smith because the second cornerback in Chicago. Whereas each Stevenson and Smith are scheduled to return subsequent season, the entrance workplace ought to look into discovering an improve on the spot reverse Jaylon Johnson this offseason.

Hughes has been within the No. 2 nook position this yr in Atlanta and has been having a strong marketing campaign. In 10 video games, Pro Football Focus credited him with simply 26 receptions allowed and a 72.1 protection grade. The 27-year-old who turns 28 in February may no less than be introduced in for some competitors with Stevenson and Smith.

2025 NFL Draft: LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

T.J. Edwards is just underneath contract via 2025 and Tremaine Edmunds hasn’t lived as much as his hefty price ticket this season. That would put this yr’s linebacker class on Ryan Poles’ radar within the draft, and the Alabama product is an intriguing prospect.

Campbell is a extremely athletic linebacker who can fly and has good measurement at 6’3″ and 244 kilos. Additionally, he has spectacular eye self-discipline and the flexibility to learn the quarterback’s eyes to anticipate throws and shut throwing home windows in zone protection. Nevertheless, Campbell does want so as to add power and will use some work versus the run.

(Earlier Week’s Choices: Fireplace Matt Eberflus, QB Joe Flacco, OL Wyatt Milum)

The Bengals bought again into the win column on Monday Evening Soccer behind one other monster efficiency from Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. Burrow posted 369 yards via the air with Chase knocking down 14 receptions for 177 yards and two touchdowns.

The protection lastly did simply sufficient to win. The Cooper Rush-led Cowboys nonetheless scored 20 factors and averaged 6.2 yards per carry, but it surely’s some progress for a unit that has been in charge for most of the Bengals woes this season.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Begin on the lookout for potential defensive coordinators

There aren’t many strikes left for the Bengals to make from a personnel standpoint, however one thing has bought to provide. Lou Anarumo put collectively some good defenses in Cincinnati. He should not have a tough time discovering work if the Bengals had been to let him go, but it surely additionally appears like his time has run its course with the Bengals.

The run protection has been a problem for 2 years and the teaching workers hasn’t been in a position to develop the younger gamers within the secondary. The result’s a protection that has persistently value the Bengals video games even when they bought by the Cowboys this week.

2025 Free Company: WR Marquise Brown, Kansas Metropolis Chiefs

The Bengals solely gave Tee Higgins the franchise tag this offseason. His worth to the offense has been obvious this season, but it surely nonetheless feels unlikely that they will have the ability to signal him to a long-term deal. Relying on a rookie to take over his duties is perhaps a little bit too dangerous.

Signing a veteran for barely cheaper than what they must pay Higgins is an choice value contemplating. Marquise Brown would not have the identical physique sort, however he does have the deep velocity to stretch secondaries vertically and play an analogous position to Higgins.

2025 NFL Draft: LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

At this level, the Bengals may justify utilizing a decide on any defensive place within the draft. The secondary and line of defense are each considerations, however utilizing a Day 2 decide so as to add some new blood to the linebacker room would not be a nasty funding.

Jihaad Campbell could be an attention-grabbing participant so as to add to the combination. The Bengals simply haven’t got many playmakers on protection proper now and that is what Campbell brings to the desk. He traces up all around the Crimson Tide protection and has 5 sacks, 12 tackles for loss and an interception to go along with 106 complete tackles.

The Cleveland Browns put collectively one among their finest performances of the yr two weeks in the past after they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Evening Soccer.

Nevertheless, the Week 14 rematch in Pittsburgh ended up being an instance of the numerous holes within the Browns roster proper now.

Jameis Winston had a number of interceptions in a sport for the second week in a row. Dustin Hopkins missed two kicks that would have made a distinction, and Kadarius Toney muffed a punt. The following few weeks must be about discovering potential solutions for subsequent season.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Proceed taking part in Jowon Briggs

In actuality, Winston might be gone subsequent season, Toney was simply signed to the energetic roster and several other groups have already employed a number of kickers this season. The factor that actually issues over the ultimate few video games for the Browns is discovering gamers who’re underneath contract and would possibly have the ability to tackle bigger roles subsequent season.

Jowon Briggs could also be instance. Cleveland goes to have some choices to make with its older defensive tackles, and the rookie made essentially the most of his alternative to play with 5 complete tackles towards the Steelers. The Browns ought to proceed to see if the seventh-rounder can maintain up.

2025 Free Company: DT Poona Ford, Los Angeles Chargers

The Browns tried to handle their want for extra inside defensive linemen by drafting Michael Corridor Jr. within the spring, however his rookie yr has been tumultuous to say the least.

The 21-year-old was suspended for 5 video games for violating the league’s private conduct coverage. Then he returned to the lineup for a number of video games earlier than going to injured reserve with a knee harm.

It is going to be arduous to depend on Corridor taking part in a job subsequent season in any case of that in his first yr. Signing a veteran who is not going to command an enormous contract could be sensible, and Poona Ford has put collectively a strong season with the Chargers this yr.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

Jedrick Wills’ contract is ready to run out on the finish of the season, and it is develop into fairly clear it is time for a reset on the place. The Browns may elect to go along with Dawand Jones, however he has performed higher on the suitable facet and must be the inheritor obvious to Jack Conklin on the opposite facet.

Drafting somebody like Josh Conerly Jr. may give Cleveland a long-term answer at each spots.

“General, Conerly has good athletic capacity, restoration expertise, and the body of a beginning sort out. Nevertheless, he exhibits rudimentary footwork within the run sport and lapses in move safety approach that sign him as a possible starter early on. However he’s younger sufficient to work his manner right into a beginning position inside his rookie contract,” Brandon Thorn famous in his scouting report.

Nicely, that is a brand new one. There cannot be many groups in NFL historical past which have misplaced a sport off a blocked punt, and that is a punt they blocked for readability. Nevertheless, that just about sums up the season for the Dallas Cowboys.

The loss drops Dallas to 5-8 and, not that the membership had excessive playoff hopes heading into Monday evening, however the loss just about removes any silver of optimism for the postseason.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Hold Brock Hoffman within the beginning lineup

Zack Martin’s season is over after touchdown on injured reserve and he’s an impending free agent, which means Martin’s days with the Cowboys might be numbered. In the meantime, Hoffman has performed effectively within the veteran’s absence and might be a part of the crew’s long-term plans.

Additionally, Tyler Guyton is banged up and struggling as a rookie and Tyler Smith can transfer out to sort out if want be.In different phrases, there are a handful of the way or the reason why Dallas ought to give the 25-year-old guard extra taking part in time to judge his potential on a much bigger pattern measurement.

2025 Free Company: WR Rondale Moore, Atlanta Falcons

With Brandin Cooks’ contract set to run out and the offense’s want for a complement to Ceedee Lamb, Jerry Jones will possible be trying so as to add a large receiver this offseason.Moore did not pan out in Arizona and has missed the whole 2024 marketing campaign with an harm, however he is usually a dynamic weapon when wholesome.

That ought to hold the 24-year-old’s (turns 25 in June) price ticket down, making him a low-risk signing with the potential to make an affect on the offense.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Jahdae Barron, Texas

Cornerback might not look like a significant want for the Cowboys, however Jourdan Lewis is about to hit free company, DaRon Bland is just underneath contract via 2025 and Trevon Diggs hasn’t performed effectively this season. So, the entrance workplace ought to no less than discover this yr’s class and there is a prospect within the state who’s value having a look at.

“Barron is a flexible defensive again who can play a number of positions, together with cornerback, nickel, and security,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings mentioned through the Longhorn’s scouting report.

“His physicality, excessive motor and soccer intelligence make him a precious asset in numerous schemes. Barron’s capacity to contribute in each the run and move sport makes him a possible affect participant on the subsequent degree.”

The Denver Broncos must be feeling fairly good about the place they stand throughout the late bye week. A win over the Cleveland Browns on Monday Evening Soccer gave them a 78 % probability to make the playoffs going into the weekend, per Next Gen Stats.

At 8-5 they’ve a powerful lead over the sector for the ultimate wild-card spot. That is fairly spectacular for a crew led by a rookie quarterback in Bo Nix and that had an offseason stuffed with questions after making the pricey resolution to launch Russell Wilson.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal CB Andrew Sales space from Dallas Cowboys Observe Squad

Riley Moss missed the sport towards the Cleveland Browns in Week 13, and it uncovered a gap within the Broncos roster. With out the shock breakout nook, they do not have a beginning choice throughout from Patrick Surtain II. Levi Wallace was torched towards the Browns for 164 yards and a landing.

Signing somebody from a follow squad may not really be an enchancment. However it will permit the Broncos to no less than get a youthful participant who might need some untapped potential. Andrew Sales space is a former second-round decide who remains to be simply 24 years previous.

2025 Free Company: RB Aaron Jones, Minnesota Vikings

It is unlucky, but it surely’s trying much less possible that Javonte Williams will attain the potential that he confirmed as a rookie. The accidents have sapped a few of his explosiveness, and he is averaged 3.6 yards per carry in every of the final two seasons.

Free company is not usually one of the simplest ways to handle the working again place. It is a younger man’s sport, and that is going to harm Aaron Jones’ market as a 30-year-old again. Nevertheless, signing him to be a part of a committee subsequent season could be a wise thought.

2025 NFL Draft: DT Tyleik Williams, Ohio State

The Broncos are going to have a number of instructions they’ll go within the draft. Constructing round Bo Nix will clearly be a precedence, however persevering with to construct a protection that has performed at a excessive degree is vital too.

On this case, the Broncos may goal an inside defensive lineman who may elevate the entrance. They do not have a whole lot of youth on the defensive inside, and Tyleik Williams has one of many highest ceilings within the class.

“His mixture of measurement, power and athleticism offers him a excessive ceiling, however inconsistency is his largest subject. He’ll have eye-popping reps on movie after which get overwhelmed on comparable reps later in the identical sport. With that being mentioned, his traits are fairly spectacular,” Matt Holder famous of Williams in his scouting report.

Dan Campbell is an absolute madman, but it surely’s working for the Detroit Lions!

Detroit went for it on fourth down 5 occasions Thursday evening, which often spells catastrophe for, however not a Campbell-led squad. That was the first motive the crew received its eleventh sport in a row—the longest profitable streak in franchise historical past—and sits atop the NFC standings at 12-1 heading into the ultimate month of the common season.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal DT Mike Purcell

One unfavorable stemming from Thursday’s win is that the Lions are getting skinny at defensive sort out. DJ Reader missed the sport whereas Alim McNeill exited early, forcing the protection to dive deep into the depth chart within the trenches.

Whereas Reader and McNeill may return to motion quickly, it would be sensible so as to add a veteran like Purcell to the follow squad no less than. That will give the crew one other big-bodied choice on the inside line of defense in case the accidents proceed to pile up heading into the playoffs.

2025 Free Company: CB Mike Jackson Sr., Carolina Panthers

It is well-known that Detroit may use some cornerback assist. That is one of many crew’s present weaknesses, and the difficulty will solely worsen when Carlton Davis’ contract expires on the finish of the yr. Even when Davis will get re-signed, the entrance workplace ought to look into including Jackson to bolster the place group.

The seventh-year veteran has persistently been a strong participant all through his profession and is placing collectively a top quality marketing campaign this fall with an interception and 10 passes defended via Week 13.

2025 NFL Draft: DT T.J. Sanders, South Carolina

As talked about above, the Lions’ depth at defensive sort out has been examined this season, and the crew will want some reinforcements within the offseason as effectively. John Cominsky and Levi Onwuzurike are impending free brokers, so it would not be shocking to see Brad Holmes use a middle-round decide on the place.

Sanders is a formidable run defender who has loads of pop in his fingers to win on the level of assault. That helps him acquire management of blocks and infrequently get up inside offensive linemen on the line of scrimmage. He additionally seems to have lengthy arms to assist get extension and escape blocks.

As a pass-rusher, the Gamecock can have success with a rip transfer and has proven a strong hand-swipe transfer. Additionally, he is respectable at working the fingers and getting his fingers as much as bat passes on the line of scrimmage. He is flashed as a bull-rusher, however his pad degree and lack of leg drive make him inconsistent at collapsing the pocket.

Whereas the Inexperienced Bay Packers are nonetheless in fine condition relating to making the playoffs, Thursday evening’s loss has to really feel like a missed alternative.

Inexperienced Bay held the lead twice within the second half, together with as soon as within the fourth quarter, and managed to tie the competition with lower than 4 minutes left on the clock—solely to fall to the division-rival Lions. That just about takes the crew out of competition for the NFC North crown and means its path to the Tremendous Bowl must be on the street.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on CB Patrick Peterson

A part of the rationale the Packers misplaced to the Lions is the crew’s secondary is overwhelmed up. Jaire Alexander has barely performed since Week 8, together with lacking this week’s sport, and Corey Ballentine was out as effectively, which impacts the protection’s depth at cornerback.

It could not damage to no less than herald Peterson for a exercise and see what he has left within the tank, particularly with the playoffs developing. Whereas the 34-year-old is not the participant he was once, he does have seven interceptions and 26 passes defended during the last two seasons mixed. At this stage, that is perhaps the membership’s best choice heading into the postseason.

2025 Free Company: EDGE Azeez Ojulari, New York Giants

Exterior of Rashan Gary, Inexperienced Bay hasn’t gotten a lot manufacturing from its edge rushers this season. It was considerably shocking to see the entrance workplace not add one other pass-rusher to enrich Gary on the commerce deadline, opting to commerce Preston Smith as a substitute.

So, the group ought to look into signing Ojulari within the offseason as he is been productive in 2024 with six sacks in 11 video games whereas solely making 5 begins on New York’s deep line of defense. Plus, the 24-year-old who turns 25 in June is a younger, high-level athlete, which GM Brian Gutekunst covets on the place.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Trey Amos, Ole Miss

Cornerback is projected to be one of many Packers’ largest areas of focus within the draft since Eric Stokes is an impending free agent and Alexander has battled accidents during the last two seasons. Whereas the Ole Miss product will not be a direct starter as a rookie, he might be developmental prospect for Gutekunst to focus on.

“Amos tasks as a middle-round decide with the potential to turn into a flexible starter,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings wrote. “His mixture of measurement, athleticism and ball expertise makes him an intriguing prospect. Nevertheless, enhancing his tackling consistency and refining his approach in deep protection will likely be key to his success.”

Simply how effectively the Houston Texans’ season has gone will depend on what your preseason expectations had been. They’ve established themselves because the chief of the AFC South. They took a two-game lead into the weekend. Nevertheless, they have not lived as much as the billing as the following up-and-coming contender within the AFC.

C.J. Stroud has had a little bit of a sophomore regression. Accidents and continual offensive line woes definitely have not helped. They’ve made progress within the latter space not too long ago. Maybe the additional week off will give them time to seek out some options.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Get Tank Dell going for the offense

The Texans have to seek out one other gear if they’re going to make a run within the postseason. A near-loss to the Titans and a slim victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars create a considerably unfavorable vibe coming into the offseason.

Getting Tank Dell again on monitor could be an X-factor that would elevate the Texans forward of the playoffs. Dell noticed simply 4 targets towards the Jaguars, catching one for 23 yards. The bye week offers him extra time since coming back from a midseason again harm, so getting him going early in subsequent week’s sport may assist.

2025 Free Company: IOL Laken Tomlinson, Seattle Seahawks

The left guard spot has been a headache for the Texans for a lot of the season. Kenyon Inexperienced struggled to carry on to the spot earlier than an harm ended his season, and it has been troublesome to discover a answer there.

Laken Tomlinson might be a one-year reply if he is on the lookout for a house in free company subsequent season. He’ll be 33 years previous, however he is one of many few free agent left guards who has performed every snap for his crew in 2024. The veteran’s finest days befell in San Francisco, so he must be acquainted with taking part in in coordinator Bobby Slowik’s system.

2025 NFL Draft: LB Barrett Carter, Clemson

Linebacker is not one of many largest wants for the Texans, but it surely may develop into one. Azeez Al-Shaair, who was suspended for 3 video games for his hit on Trevor Lawrence, is underneath contract via 2026, however he will get actually costly in that last season.

The opposite younger linebackers on the roster have not essentially stored the place from being on the crew’s radar. So it would not be shocking to see the Texans goal a promising participant there on Day 2.

B/R’s Matt Holder in contrast Barrett Carter to Kwon Alexander and praised his protection expertise in his scouting report of the linebacker.

There have been a whole lot of ups and downs for the 2024 Indianapolis Colts. A lot of that has to do with the expansion and improvement of second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson. The sophomore was even benched at one level this season however has rallied and even led a game-winning drive towards the New England Patriots final week.

The important thing over the ultimate 4 video games of the season will likely be for Richardson to place collectively what he has discovered to get the Colts within the playoff race.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Lean into the run sport

Shane Steichen made his title because the Eagles offensive coordinator. His method to calling performs for Anthony Richardson and the Colts offense ought to hypothetically be the identical because it was in Philly. Proper now, it is a little bit extra pass-happy.

For example, the present Eagles, who permit Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts to regulate video games, are working the ball 51 % of the time. The Colts are seventh within the league in rush price at 42 %. With Jonathan Taylor and Richardson within the backfield, the Colts must be doing extra to regulate the sport and let their gifted runners free.

2025 Free Company: LB Jamien Sherwood, New York Jets

The Colts are going to have some choices to make with defensive free brokers within the offseason. Most notably, security Julian Blackmon and linebacker E.J. Pace have expiring contracts. Pace goes to be 30, so it will make sense if the Colts had been to go in one other path.

Signing Jamien Sherwood would permit the Colts to let Pace stroll whereas additionally avoiding relying on a rookie linebacker to start out immediately. Sherwood is a transformed security who has develop into an vital cog within the Jets protection. His protection and flexibility would assist a Colts protection that wants some upgrades.

Typically it is vital to keep in mind that essentially the most shrewd groups draft for wants one to 2 years earlier than they’re really wants. The inside duo of DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart is the engine for the Colts protection, however Buckner is 30 years previous with two years left on an expensive contract, and Stewart is 31 on a deal that’s simply cuttable in 2026.

The sensible transfer could be to draft a substitute for no less than one among them in 2025. That will give the crew a season to make use of the rookie as a rotational participant earlier than he is handed a beginning position in 2026.

Kenneth Grant could be a powerful candidate. The Michigan nostril sort out is a 6’3″, 339-pound defensive lineman who has the power and measurement to tackle double-teams and anchor an NFL run protection.

The Jaguars protection did not decide the best of occasions to indicate up this season.

Jacksonville’s marketing campaign is lengthy over at this level, however the week after Trevor Lawrence was placed on injured reserve, they got here out and held the Tennessee Titans to 6 factors in a 10-6 win.

Maybe it is a signal head coach Doug Pederson can nonetheless get his crew to play arduous, however there aren’t a whole lot of positives to the Jaguars profitable video games at this level, particularly when that win comes towards a direct competitor within the draft order.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Get Parker Washington extra concerned

These last video games of the Jaguars’ season ought to principally be about evaluating the younger gamers on the roster. The coaches are probably preventing for his or her jobs, however the entrance workplace additionally must get an thought of what they’ll get out of these guys.

Parker Washington is an efficient instance. Christian Kirk is a minimize candidate primarily based on his contract and the truth that he will likely be coming off a significant harm subsequent season. Washington, 22, has accomplished some good issues and is perhaps a substitute, although he solely noticed two targets on Sunday.

2025 Free Company: DT Alim McNeill, Detroit Lions

The Jaguars’ free fall to the underside of the league has been staggering, however the bones are there for them to no less than have a dominant defensive entrance within the close to future.

Josh Hines-Allen is a confirmed commodity, and Travon Walker continues to get higher. Arik Armstead’s addition hasn’t turned out to be a game-changer, however concentrating on a youthful defensive sort out in Alim McNeill would possibly do the trick.

The 24-year-old has been a nightmare on the inside this season producing 40 total pressures, per PFF. Including him to the center of the line of defense may give the Jaguars a line of defense able to taking on video games.

2025 NFL Draft: IOL Donovan Jackson, Ohio State

The Jaguars have a whole lot of work to do to rebuild round Trevor Lawrence, however guaranteeing he has high quality safety and a useful run sport are paramount.

That is why discovering an eventual substitute for Brandon Scherff must be a precedence. Donovan Jackson bought bumped out to left sort out after Josh Simmons’ harm at Ohio State, however he tasks as a mauling guard within the NFL.

“General, Jackson hasn’t fairly lived as much as the hype because the nation’s finest guard popping out of highschool largely attributable to a robotic taking part in type with some erratic footwork, however has the mandatory construct, uncooked power and sufficient motion expertise to compete for a job as a rookie and probably begin inside his first contract if he can proceed to tighten up his sport from the bottom up.”

The Chiefs did it once more.

Name it luck, name it grit, name it no matter you need, however they proceed to discover a method to win one-score video games. This time, it was particular groups that performed an enormous position in one other slim win for Kansas Metropolis.

After a botched kickoff from the Chargers, the Chiefs got an important subject place to make a game-winning drive, and kicker Matthew Wright bought a lucky bounce off the upright to make the sector objective to win it as time expired.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Nothing

D.J. Humphries began at left sort out towards the Chargers, however he suffered a hamstring harm and was compelled out of the sport within the fourth quarter.

The Chiefs might need to reside with the truth that Wanya Morris goes to want assist to guard Mahomes’ blindside.

2025 Free Company: OT Trent Brown, Cincinnati Bengals

Trent Brown goes to be a dangerous signing for lots of groups. The 31-year-old tore his patellar tendon in Week 3 and will not be returning this season. His measurement is just going to make his restoration harder, however the 6’8″ sort out has at all times been a strong move protector.

After watching Morris and Kingsley Suamataia battle to carry up this season, the Chiefs may see it as a worthwhile danger to provide Brown a chance to get well, get in form and be a contributor on a contender.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Trey Amos, Ole Miss

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo loves cornerbacks who can press receivers on the line of scrimmage. It is a ability set B/R scout Cory Giddings sees as a power of Trey Amos.

The scout famous the Ole Miss product has “nice press approach, exhibiting fast ft and lateral motion to reflect on the line, in addition to good hand strike and placement to regulate receivers” in his scouting report.

The Chiefs must proceed stocking the cabinet with gifted younger defensive backs after buying and selling L’Jarius Sneed final offseason, and Amos may assist with that.

Not a complete lot has gone proper for the Raiders this season. That pattern continued on Sunday with Aidan O’Connell struggling an ankle harm within the third quarter of their 28-13 loss to the Tampa Buccaneers. Desmond Ridder got here in as the one wholesome quarterback on the roster.

That wasn’t sufficient to beat the Bucs, and it is unlikely to be sufficient to win any extra video games this season. A minimum of that may give them the very best probability to discover a new quarterback within the 2025 draft.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Proceed to get Michael Mayer concerned

Sunday was a pleasant reminder that Brock Bowers is not the one extremely regarded tight finish prospect the Raiders have on their roster. He is put collectively such rookie season that Michael Mayer is usually the forgotten man in Vegas.

The 23-year-old caught seven passes for 68 yards towards the Bucs. The Raiders have a novel alternative to function their two tight ends, which ends up in many potentialities for his or her offense shifting ahead.

Though there’s possible a brand new offensive workers coming in subsequent season, it will be good to see the Raiders actually function their two younger tight ends the remainder of the season.

2025 Free Company: LB Nick Bolton, Kansas Metropolis Chiefs

If you cannot beat ’em, poach their gamers. The Raiders are clearly a great distance away from the Chiefs within the AFC West, however free company is an space that would permit them shut the hole.

Signing Nick Bolton away from their protection would damage a division rival whereas addressing an actual want on the Las Vegas protection.

Divine Deablo has not performed effectively sufficient to be a assured starter subsequent season, and Robert Spillane is ready to develop into a free agent. Bolton has been a productive starter on a number of good Chiefs defenses, and he would make addition for a Raiders protection that has upset this season.

2025 NFL Draft: QB Cam Ward, Miami

Watching O’Connell and Ridder play quarterback for the Raiders this week was reminder that the reply on the place will not be at present on the roster.

The free-agent market is not going to have many viable solutions, so it is crucial the Raiders discover a prospect they like on the place.

B/R scout Dame Parson has him ranked as our No. 1 quarterback within the class:

“Cam Ward is among the many most gifted throwers within the NFL draft class. The mix of arm expertise, mobility/athleticism, and accuracy is rising amongst NFL scouts. He’s comfy utilizing arduous counts to pressure the protection out of their disguises, then set the safety to select up any indicating additional rushers from the second or third ranges of the protection. He has celebrity potential if he can minimize down on errors/dangerous choices.”

The Chargers had been the newest crew to come back so shut to beating the Chiefs in Week 14.

Their protection performed effectively sufficient to restrict Kansas Metropolis to only one landing. Sadly, a kick off that landed in need of the touchdown zone and the game-winning subject objective bounced in off the upright.

Jim Harbaugh’s crew continues to be adequate to carry the lead within the wild-card race, but it surely’s simply susceptible sufficient that others such because the Colts and Dolphins might need an actual probability to make up floor within the playoff chase.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Enhance Stone Smartt’s Function

This was a gut-wrenching loss, however Stone Smartt is without doubt one of the largest winners for the Chargers this week. Will Dissly left the sport with an harm, and the reserve tight finish actually stepped up in his absence. He had three catches for 54 yards, and so they weren’t simply simple uncontested catches, both.

Smartt solely got here into the season with 15 receptions and clearly has extra potential as a receiver. Now could be time to seek out out if he is a receiving tight finish who might be an asset shifting ahead or if final week’s efficiency was a fluke.

2025 Free Company: CB Charvarius Ward, San Francisco 49ers

The cornerback place goes to be one of the attention-grabbing for the Chargers this offseason. Asante Samuel Jr. is a free agent. He wasn’t drafted by the present regime, and he suffered a season-ending harm after 4 video games this season.

Retaining homegrown expertise is imporant for a crew making an attempt to construct a contender, but it surely’s unclear if the Chargers view Samuel that manner. There are different choices they might pursue in free company.

Charvarius Ward is having a little bit of a down yr for the Niners this season, however he is a confirmed veteran who has playoff-winning expertise.

2025 NFL Draft: DT Deone Walker, Kentucky

We all know Harbaugh desires to win video games within the trenches. Drafting a 6’6″, 345-pound athlete to anchor the center of the line of defense would ship that message loud and clear.

The Chargers have relied on a whole lot of veterans on short-term contracts to carry down the center of the protection. New basic supervisor Joe Hortiz did not have many assets to construct the roster final season, however now he can make the most of draft capital to construct the roster to their liking.

“Together with his mixture of higher physique power and measurement, [Deone] Walker can win on the level of assault to be arduous to maneuver as a run defender towards one-on-one blocks and might collapse the pocket when bull dashing. He is additionally flashed a formidable swim transfer and proven the flexibility to make use of his quickness to win as a pass-rusher and defeat blocks towards the run,” B/R scout Matt Holder wrote of the Kentucky product in his scouting report.

(Previous Week’s Selections: Extra carries for Gus Edwards or Kimani Vidal, S Justin Reid, RB Quinshon Judkins)

The Los Angeles Rams entered Sunday’s sport towards the Payments as residence underdogs however managed to tug off the upset. That is Los Angeles’ sixth win in its final eight video games and pulls the crew’s report above .500 for the primary time this season.

Additionally, the Rams are within the thick of the NFC West race, sitting a sport behind the Seahawks heading into an enormous matchup with the third-place 49ers on Thursday.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Get Tyler Higbee again ASAP

Higbee returned to follow this week however did not play within the sport. Whereas the group would not need to rush him again, the Rams offense has been lacking its chain-moving tight finish this season. With a couple of month left to make a playoff push, the crew wants the 31-year-old again within the fold now greater than ever.

2025 Free Company: WR Josh Palmer, Los Angeles Chargers

Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell are impending free brokers, whereas Cooper Kupp is getting up there in age, turning 32 in June. So, Los Angeles will want some huge receiver assist in the offseason, and including somebody youthful could be excellent.

Palmer will likely be 26 at the start of subsequent season and has been a strong pass-catcher throughout his profession with 167 receptions for 414 yards and 10 touchdowns in 54 video games (27 begins) heading into this weekend. That will give the group third huge receiver for the brief time period and a possible No. 2 for the lengthy haul.

2025 NFL Draft: DT DeMonte Capehart, Clemson

Bobby Brown III’s contract is about to run out, which would depart the Rams protection with a necessity for a gap-filler within the trenches. At 6’5″ and 315 kilos, Capehart has good measurement and is difficult to maneuver within the working sport and will substitute Brown as a possible middle-round decide.

Whereas the Clemson product would not supply a lot as a pass-rusher, that would not be a lot of an issue in L.A. since Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske can tackle these tasks.

The Miami Dolphins haven’t got a whole lot of margin of error to maintain up within the wild-card race at this level. That is why it was essential they got here out on high towards a Jets crew that was trying to spoil their playoff hopes.

The Dolphins possible must win out if they’re going to get into the playoffs and that may require some higher protection. They gave up 6.4 yards per play and could not decelerate both Garrett Wilson or Davante Adams. Every receiver had over 100 yards.

Miami has to win out, however that will not occur if it may well’t tighten its protection.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to make now: Activate Edge Bradley Chubb

The Dolphins opened the 21-day window for pass-rusher Bradley Chubb to come back again from the torn ACL that has stored him out all season. There is a case to be made that he must be shut down for the remainder of the marketing campaign.

Nevertheless, they nonetheless have an opportunity to make the playoffs, however they will not do it if the move rush stays as docile because it was Sunday.

Miami simply could not get Aaron Rodgers out of a rhythm.

2025 Free Company: IOL Mekhi Becton, Philadelphia Eagles

Liam Eichenberg has had greater than sufficient probabilities in Miami to develop into a strong starter. It hasn’t occurred but.

You may make the argument Mekhi Becton was the identical manner with the New York Jets, however he has since revived his profession after signing a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. He has moved to protect, stayed wholesome and may receives a commission this spring.

The Dolphins must be on the lookout for methods to clear the cash to focus on him. Large and mauling guards have develop into en vogue for a number of groups from the Kyle Shanahan teaching tree. Miami may gain advantage from becoming a member of the motion with Becton.

2025 NFL Draft: TE Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Inexperienced

Jonnu Smith has emerged as a real weapon within the Dolphins offense this season. Miami did not have a decent finish like him final season, and his affect is clear. The one downside is that he’s solely underneath contract via 2025 and will likely be 30 years previous subsequent season.

B/R scout Dame Parson in contrast Bowling Inexperienced prospect Harold Fannin Jr. to Isaiah Probably. The 6’3″, 231-pounder is not a conventional tight finish, however he is a vertical menace who can line up all around the formation. He might be a brand new weapon that unlocks one other degree for Mike McDaniel’s offense in Miami.

The Minnesota Vikings bought the final snort towards Kirk Cousins within the QB’s return to Minnesota as a 21-point fourth quarter led to a convincing win.

In an interview with NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero after the sport, Byron Murphy Jr. mentioned, “Y’all want to start out speaking about us. … Speak concerning the Vikings, as a result of we on one proper now,” and Murphy is right.

The one blemishes on the Vikings’ report got here through a two-game skid towards a few playoff-caliber groups, the Lions and Rams, and so they’ve received six in a row to be among the finest groups within the NFC heading into the ultimate month of the common season.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on CB Xavien Howard

Stephon Gilmore suffered an harm not too long ago, and the Vikings are skinny at cornerback behind Gilmore and fellow starter Byron Murphy Jr. Whereas the crew added Kelvin Joseph to the follow squad this previous week, it could not damage to discover bringing in one other veteran like Howard for the playoff run.

Plus, it helps that the previous Dolphin has expertise taking part in for defensive coordinator Brian Flores. That ought to assist him stand up to hurry quicker if known as upon over the ultimate stretch of the common season or within the postseason.

2025 Free Company: S Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts

As talked about final week, Camryn Bynum and Harrison Smith are impending free brokers, which is able to make Minnesota huge gamers within the security market this offseason. Blackmon might be goal on the open market since he has expertise taking part in within the field and as a deep security.

The 26-year-old who turns 27 in August has additionally been fairly productive during the last two years with 158 complete tackles, six interceptions and 11 passes defended in 27 video games throughout that timeframe.

2025 NFL Draft: RB Omarion Hampton, North Carolina

With Aaron Jones’ and Cam Akers’ contracts expiring on the finish of the yr, the Vikings will possible be on the lookout for a working again within the spring. In the meantime, the North Carolina product at present ranks because the second working again on B/R’s NFL Draft huge board and might be goal for Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

“Hampton is a gifted and versatile offensive participant,” offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson wrote within the Tar Heel’s scouting report. “He makes his affect felt as a receiver and runner.

“Hampton tasks finest in hole/energy run schemes, which permit him to assault the road of scrimmage with momentum and squared shoulders. He ought to excel after contact and rating touchdowns within the pink zone.”

The Patriots haven’t got a lot to play for within the last weeks of the common season. They’re nonetheless within the hunt for the primary general decide at 3-10, however they need to no less than be enthusiastic about their new quarterback.

Drake Maye is not possible within the working for Offensive Rookie of the 12 months, however he has accomplished greater than sufficient for the Pats to be ok with their resolution to draft him. Now they must spend the offseason discovering methods to construct round him.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Begin Alex Austin

Often, it is not finest to base choices about who’s going to start out on only one sport. However the guidelines are a little bit completely different within the Patriots’ place. New England should not essentially be trying to win video games proper now. As an alternative, the Pats must be placing themselves able to have success in 2025.

Which means permitting Alex Austin, who carried out effectively because the Payments’ No. 2 nook, to take over because the starter at his place. It may not be fairly at occasions, but it surely offers the teaching workers a greater alternative to judge him.

2025 Free Company: OT Tyron Smith, New York Jets

The Patriots are projected to have the most cap space going into the 2025 offseason, with $139.4 million. The plain benefit of that’s that the Pats can afford to overpay a number of veteran free brokers who may assist velocity up this rebuild. Maye has accomplished a whole lot of good issues as a rookie, however they want a extra useful offensive line to see what he can actually do.

Tyron Smith would solely be a one-year answer at left sort out, however it will permit the Patriots to go along with a “finest participant out there” method within the draft. The 33-year-old has the thirty third highest-grade among the many tackles evaluated by PFF this season.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss

The Patriots traded Josh Uche and Matt Judon this yr. That is a transparent sign that the crew will likely be addressing the edge-rusher place this offseason, as Uche and Judon had been arguably its two finest quarterback hunters. One choice is utilizing one among New England’s first two picks on an edge prospect, which ought to put Ole Miss’s Princely Umanmielen on the radar.

Umanmielen is harking back to Uche in that he’ll take a while earlier than he is a helpful run defender. He might need to be a pass-rush specialist early on, however he has the potential to make an early affect in that position.

Whereas the New Orleans Saints managed to defeat the Giants on Sunday, the larger information is the Derek Carr period is perhaps over.

In response to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, Carr “is feared to have suffered a fracture in his left, non-throwing hand.” That would land the quarterback on injured reserve for the final month of the common season, and his contract accommodates an out if the group opts to rebuild within the offseason.

Per Over The Cap, the Saints may let Carr go to avoid wasting $30 million in cap house with a post-June 1 minimize, and the crew is 5-8 regardless of the win this weekend with an getting older roster.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Give Kendre Miller touches

The Saints are at some extent within the season the place they need to be evaluating the younger expertise on their roster. Miller was a third-round decide final yr however did not get a lot taking part in time and barely noticed the sector earlier than hitting injured reserve this fall.

The membership activated him on Wednesday of final week, so it is time to see what the TCU product can carry to the desk, particularly since that may assist lighten the workload on Alvin Kamara, who’s about to enter his age 30 season.

2025 Free Company: S Andre Cisco, Jacksonville Jaguars

Will Harris’ contract is about to run out and Tyrann Mathieu turns 33 in Could. Additionally, Mathieu might be a cap casualty this offseason as New Orleans would save $6.25 million in house by making him a post-June 1 minimize, per Over The Cap. In different phrases, count on the entrance workplace to dive into the protection market this spring.

Cisco has been a strong participant on the again finish of Jacksonville’s protection during the last three seasons, amassing eight interceptions and 9 passes defended in 42 video games throughout that timeframe. Additionally, he’ll be simply 25 years previous in March to slot in with the group’s youth motion.

2025 NFL Draft: EDGE Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss

The Saints have a number of impending free brokers on the sting and must get youthful on the place since Cameron Jordan, who turns 36 in July, is without doubt one of the few returners. The Florida product might be goal within the draft as he is a formidable pass-rusher.

Umanmielen accelerates off the road of scrimmage effectively to beat offensive tackles with velocity across the edge and has counter with a nasty inside spin transfer. Additionally, he has the change of path and power to show velocity to energy and has proven strong cross-chop and rip strikes in addition to respectable bend across the edge.

All eyes are on the long run relating to the New York Giants after Sunday’s loss made it eight in a row and dropped the crew’s report to 2-11.

The excellent news is Malik Nabers had a productive afternoon with 5 catches for 79 yards and the membership is in competition for the No. 1 general to get a brand new quarterback.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal DT Siaki Ika

With Dexter Lawrence struggling a season-ending harm, the Giants may use a nostril sort out. The crew can also be eradicated from the playoffs and is constructing for the long run.

Consequently, the entrance workplace ought to herald Ika to fill in for Lawrence in the interim and see if the 24-year-old will be a part of the long-term plan so as to add depth to the line of defense.

2025 Free Company: G Mekhi Becton, Philadelphia Eagles

New York will possible be welcoming a brand new quarterback this offseason, however the offense can have a gap to fill within the trenches. Greg Van Roten is just on a one-year deal and turns 35 years previous in February.

Becton’s profession bought off to a tough begin with the Jets, however he is bounced again with a powerful marketing campaign in 2024. In response to Pro Football Focus, the 25-year-old has earned a 72.6 grade general and has solely surrendered 19 pressures via Week 13.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Ashton Gillotte, Louisville

Azeez Ojulari is an impending free agent and Kayvon Thibodeaux is just underneath contract via 2025, barring the membership choosing up his fifth-year choice. So, the G-Males might be on the lookout for an edge defender within the center rounds of the draft and Gillotte might be goal.

The Louisville product definitely seems the a part of an NFL defensive finish as he has good measurement (6’3″ and 275 kilos) and seems to have longer arms. He additionally has spectacular power to be energy rusher on the subsequent degree.

With a teach-tape-material bull rush, utilizing good pad degree, tight fingers and maintaining his ft shifting via contact, Gillotte has proven the flexibility to break down the pocket towards offensive tackles and guards in faculty. That provides him some place versatility on third downs on the subsequent degree.

At this level, the Jets do not essentially need to win for draft functions, but it surely’s nonetheless irritating to drop an time beyond regulation sport towards a division opponent. They only could not get the cease they wanted to maintain from dropping to the Dolphins in time beyond regulation.

On the brilliant facet, it was Aaron Rodgers first 300-yard efficiency in 35 video games, and the duo of Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams have by no means appeared so good collectively.

This crew nonetheless has hints of being harmful regardless of getting eradicated from the playoff image.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Prolong Jamien Sherwood

Whoever takes over the Jets goes to get a roster that has some useful items.

The protection has had its moments all through the season and Jamien Sherwood is without doubt one of the the reason why. He has been the breakout participant on the protection with over 100 tackles on the season already.

The Jets want to ensure they hold their defensive core intact the place they’ll. Sherwood has develop into part of that, and it will make sense to get an extension accomplished earlier than he hits the open market.

2025 Free Company: QB Justin Fields, Pittsburgh Steelers

A lot of what the Jets need to do that offseason will depend upon whether or not Rodgers is again and who the pinnacle coach goes to be.

If the quarterback goes come again and the Jets are sport for an additional run with the veteran, then they are going to possible draft a backup signal-caller who may take over.

But when the partnership is over, then the Jets might need to discover a bridge quarterback who can permit them to take their time with a rookie on the place.

That is perhaps job for Justin Fields. His run with Pittsburgh offered sufficient intrigue to get one other crack at being a starter. If something, his athleticism and working capacity would give the offense the next flooring whereas a rookie prepares to start out.

2025 NFL Draft: QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama

Let’s persist with the world through which Rodgers and the Jets half methods subsequent season. Brent Sobleski’s newest top 10 mock draft included New York deciding on Jalen Milroe with the seventh general choice. He has unimaginable upside and drew a comparability to Jalen Hurts in Dame Parson’s scouting report.

The 21-year-old has all of the arm power he’ll must make all of the throws. He simply wants time to iron out the nuances of profitable from the pocket.

Growing an offense that he and somebody like Fields may thrive in could be a enjoyable enterprise for whoever is teaching the Jets subsequent.

The easiest way to explain the Philadelphia Eagles’ 22-16 win over the Panthers on Sunday is to say they escaped.

Philadelphia performed removed from its finest sport of the season and trailed heading into the fourth quarter earlier than squeaking out the one-possession victory.

Within the huge image, although, the Eagles nonetheless have a three-game lead within the NFC East with 4 weeks to play and are nonetheless in competition for the highest seed within the convention. However the teaching workers has a number of issues to wash up heading into a tricky matchup with the Steelers.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal TE Logan Thomas

The Eagles positioned Dallas Goedert on injured reserve this week, leaving the offense skinny at tight finish. Whereas he may return in time for the playoffs, it will be sensible so as to add a veteran tight finish like Thomas to the follow squad simply in case. That manner he can study and get comfy within the offense in case of an emergency heading into the postseason.

2025 Free Company: G Brandon Scherff, Jacksonville Jaguars

Philadelphia has a handful of impending free brokers on the inside offensive line, together with present beginning proper guard Mekhi Becton. So, the crew may use some reinforcements within the trenches, and choosing up a veteran with 5 Professional Bowls to his title would not be a nasty thought.

Whereas Scherff is not the identical participant he was once, he is nonetheless a strong guard who would give the offense one other beginning choice to switch Becton. Plus, the soon-to-be 33-year-old has solely performed in 4 playoff video games in his profession and would possible be keen to take a reduction to play for a Tremendous Bowl contender after a depressing season in Jacksonville.

2025 NFL Draft: Tez Johnson, Oregon Geese

Philadelphia has been on the lookout for a 3rd receiver to play with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith for a number of years now.

Whereas Tez Johnson would possibly get tabbed with the “slot-only” label throughout the pre-draft course of, he might be an intriguing mid-round choice for Eagles basic supervisor Howie Roseman.

“Johnson’s capacity to promote vertical routes with urgency, velocity, and attacking leverages places defenders in battle, opening entry factors to shallow routes,” B/R’s offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson mentioned through the Oregon product’s scouting report.

“He performs with optimum snap and hip sinkage on the breaking level to generate ample separation towards man protection. Johnson is the perfect pre-snap movement receiver, whether or not on jet or orbit motions, placing him on the transfer is an efficient method to give him free releases and advantageous angles towards defenders.”

The Pittsburgh Steelers bounced again in an enormous manner with a 27-14 win over the Cleveland Browns. The truth that it introduced a little bit revenge is a pleasant bonus for Pittsburgh.

After dropping to the Browns two weeks in the past and giving up 38 factors to the Bengals final week, Pittsburgh bought again to taking part in nice protection.

Alex Highsmith’s return to the lineup helped. He registered a sack and provides T.J. Watt a official complementary pass-rusher.

Performances like this one make them a scary crew in January.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Give Pat Freiermuth extra targets

Nearly as good because the protection performed, the Steelers’ passing sport was a lot much less thrilling. Russell Wilson accomplished simply over half his passes for 158 yards. The run sport was unhealthy too, averaging 3.4 yards per carry.

They had been with out George Pickens and it confirmed. Pat Freiermuth led the crew in receiving yards with 48, however he did that on simply three targets. Jaylen Warren led the crew with 5 targets.

Freiermuth is without doubt one of the crew’s most constant choices no matter place. He must be getting extra seems, even when Pickens will get again into the lineup.

2025 Free Company: WR Keenan Allen, Chicago Bears

Van Jefferson, Calvin Austin III and even Mike Williams have all chipped in to provide the Steelers the manufacturing of No. 2 huge receiver to pair with Pickens. Nonetheless, it will be good for the crew to herald extra expertise to the receiving corps.

Keenan Allen has not put up huge numbers for the Bears this season, however he is nonetheless a reasonably dependable veteran. It might be value a shot to see what he has left to supply an offense subsequent season and if he can bounce again in a extra useful offense subsequent yr.

2025 NFL Draft: QB Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss

The Steelers went with two one-year options at quarterback this season. Each Russell Wilson and Justin Fields simply type of fell into their lap for subsequent to nothing.

This yr, they’re going to must make some precise choices. At this level, bringing again Wilson is perhaps the very best factor they’ll do whereas utilizing some draft capital to switch his eventual substitute.

In the event that they go that route, then a prospect akin to Jaxson Dart could be good. He isn’t going to be among the many first quarterbacks drafted however has some attention-grabbing instruments.

“Jaxson Dart has bodily ability set to be an efficient beginning quarterback. His capacity to alter up the speeds of his passes will translate effectively to the league. He’s greater than keen to take the examine down beneath. Dart will want time to study and adapt to an NFL offensive system,” Dame Parson wrote in his scouting report.

This season has undoubtedly been disappointing for the San Francisco 49ers, however Sunday’s thumping of the Bears proved the crew is not going to give up.

After a three-game dropping streak and several other accidents, San Francisco simply may have packed it in for the rest of the marketing campaign. Nevertheless, this win retains the crew alive within the NFC West race. Albeit, it is nonetheless a protracted shot to win the division.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Enhance Evan Anderson’s workload

To be honest, the 49ers have been giving Anderson extra snaps not too long ago as he made his first profession begin towards the Payments in Week 13. That pattern must proceed because the undrafted rookie has been spectacular not too long ago, recording eight complete tackles and a QB hit within the two video games main into this weekend.

In the meantime, the crew’s defensive tackles have been decimated by accidents this season and the place group may use some youth for 2025 and past since Maliek Collins will flip 30 this spring and Javon Hargrave will likely be 32 in February.

2025 Free Company: IOL Evan Brown, Arizona Cardinals

Aaron Banks and Jon Feliciano are impending free brokers, which is able to make the inside offensive line some extent of emphasis for San Francisco this offseason.

Granted, Feliciano hasn’t and will not play this season with a knee harm, however Banks has been a starter for almost all of the marketing campaign and the offense may nonetheless use some depth at guard. Additionally, Jake Brendel will likely be 33 in September and the membership may use a possible improve over him at middle.

Brown would not be the sexiest signing, however he does match what the entrance workplace will likely be on the lookout for having performed all three inside offensive-line positions throughout his profession. Worst case, the 28-year-old is an efficient depth piece.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Mike Inexperienced, Marshall

Leonard Floyd is just signed via 2025 and might be a cap casualty this offseason because the 49ers would save practically $8 million by making him a post-June 1 minimize, in line with Over The Cap.

Even when Floyd is retained, he’ll be 33 by the beginning of subsequent season, so the protection may use a youthful edge-rusher to play on the opposite facet of Nick Bosa.

Inexperienced would possibly remind Niners GM John Lynch of the pass-rusher he’d be changing. The Marshall product has a wiry body and might want to add some measurement to set the sting within the NFL, however he is fast as lighting and has a handful of pass-rush strikes he can win with.

That is how the Solar Belt Participant of the 12 months racked up 16 sacks this season and has develop into a notable Group of 5 draft prospect. He is additionally bodily on the level of assault to turn into an every-down participant with some additional time within the weight room.

Not many individuals anticipated the Seattle Seahawks to be on this place, main the NFC West with 4 weeks to go within the common season, heading into the marketing campaign.

Even fewer thought it will be doable when the crew misplaced 4 out of 5 video games and sat at 4-5 halfway of the yr.

Nevertheless, Seattle has now received 4 in a row and accomplished the sweep towards Arizona on Sunday to take management of the division.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on Mason Cole

Particularly after Connor Williams’ midseason retirement, the Seahawks’ inside offensive line could be very younger and will use some work. Olu Oluwatimi has taken over because the crew’s beginning middle and lacks expertise as a second-year professional who barely noticed the sector earlier than the promotion.

So, it would be sensible to herald somebody who has beginning expertise, particularly within the playoffs. Cole would not essentially must take over for Oluwatimi immediately, however he could be good to have as an insurance coverage coverage heading into the postseason at least.

2025 Free Company: WR Tutu Atwell, Los Angeles Rams

It has been talked about beforehand that Tyler Lockett might be taking part in his final season in Seattle given his age and contract scenario.

In response to Over The Cap, the group would save $17 million of cap house by reducing the 32-year-old who turns 33 in September this offseason, and the entrance workplace is at present projected to have over a $6 million deficit within the spring.

Additionally, Lockett is just signed via 2025 anyway and is averaging his fewest yards per sport (42.6) since 2017.

Atwell may step in and be the offense’s deep menace at a fraction of the associated fee. Granted, he would not have the identical pedigree as his predecessor, however the fourth-year professional was a dependable goal for the Rams throughout a five-game stretch through which Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp had been injured.

2025 NFL Draft: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

On a associated observe, Noah Fant has solely had 30 catches for 311 yards via Week 13 of this season and hasn’t scored a landing in two years. He may get let go to avoid wasting $9 million this offseason, per OTC, which may make tight finish a necessity for the Seahawks within the draft.

In the meantime, Tyler Warren shares an analogous ability set and might be substitute for Fant.

“Warren is a gifted move catcher who’s dealing with the position as the highest offensive choice,” B/R’s offensive ability place scout Dame Parson mentioned through the Penn State product’s scouting report.

“He must be used as an H-back and flex tight finish early in his NFL profession till his run-blocking improves. Warren’s receiving versatility and upside will add one other aspect to a passing assault.”

(Earlier Week’s Choices: Name up Quinton Bohanna, C Bradley Bozeman, WR Luther Burden III)

It wasn’t fairly because the Tampa Bay Buccaneers let the Raiders hold round far too lengthy. Las Vegas trailed by only one possession for a lot of the afternoon till a late rating by Jalen McMillan with lower than two minutes slammed the door shut.

Nevertheless, Tampa Bay bought the job accomplished and now owns the NFC South lead heading into the ultimate month of the common season after Atlanta’s loss.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on Melvin Ingram

Exterior of YaYa Diaby, the Buccaneers have not gotten a lot manufacturing from their edge-rushers.

After Diaby, Anthony Nelson was second on the crew in pressures (22) on the place group heading into this weekend and that ranked 51st within the NFL, in line with Pro Football Focus.

So, it will be sensible to see what a veteran akin to Ingram has left within the tank because the 35-year-old would possibly have the ability to assist the protection gear up for a playoff run.

2025 Free Company: DL John Cominsky, Detroit Lions

Greg Gaines and William Gholston are impending free brokers, which is able to go away Tampa Bay skinny on the inside line of defense. Additionally, whereas Calijah Kancey and Logan Corridor are good pass-rushers, each have points towards the run.

Cominsky could be match since he can substitute Positive aspects and Gholston, and he has been a strong run defender throughout his profession to enrich Kancey and Corridor.

Granted, this pairing will depend upon how the 29-year-old’s medicals try after struggling a torn MCL throughout coaching camp this summer time.

2025 NFL Draft: IOL Tyler Booker, Alabama

Jason Licht must make some robust choices this offseason with a number of offensive linemen on expiring contracts, together with present beginning guard Ben Bredson.

So, the final supervisor is probably going diving into this yr’s draft class and Tyler Booker is undoubtedly on his radar.

“Booker is a stout run blocker with glorious sq. energy to ship jolt on the level of assault along with his finest work coming because the drive man on double-teams, down, pin and base blocks,” offensive line scout Brandon Thorn mentioned within the guard’s scouting report.

“Booker generates fast displacement off the ball earlier than bracing and clamping defenders up with churning ft and a nasty demeanor to complete at a excessive degree.

“He has sufficient preliminary burst and motion expertise to intersect and blot out smaller targets on pulls and brief climbs however will lose steam and monitoring capacity as house expands on longer growing runs and screens.”

In a season of ugly losses, the Titans’ most up-to-date loss stands out as one of many worst. They could not get something getting in a 10-6 loss to a Mac Jones-led Jaguars crew. Will Levis placed on one among his worst performances going 19-of-32 for 168 yards.

It is all techniques go towards the 2025 NFL draft and a free company through which Tennessee is projected to have $71.6 million in cap house.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to make now: Sit Will Levis

One of many main objectives of this season was to determine if Levis is usually a franchise quarterback. He nonetheless places some nice performs on movie, however there’s additionally a whole lot of unhealthy play on the market too.

What’s regarding for the Kentucky product proper now could be that he told reporters he reaggravated his sprained AC joint throughout the sport towards the Jaguars.

The teaching workers must get a take a look at what a few of the younger guys can do within the offense and that does not essentially occur with a banged-up Levis at quarterback.

2025 Free Company: Edge Malcolm Koonce, Las Vegas Raiders

The Titans have beginning duo on the sting in Harold Landry III and Arden Key. Nevertheless, the depth behind them will get a little bit shaky.

That is vital as a result of Key is not nice towards the run and Landry III would not supply as a lot juice as a pass-rusher.

Including one other high-quality choice would permit the Titans to get a little bit extra artistic with their seems and match personnel higher. That is why Koonce, 26, must be on their goal checklist.

His market will likely be attention-grabbing after lacking all the 2024 season with a knee harm. Nevertheless, he is without doubt one of the few promising younger pass-rushers who may wind up available on the market.

2025 NFL Draft: IOL Gray Zabel, North Dakota State

The Titans’ offensive line has really taken steps ahead from final season.

There are younger items in place who’re going to proceed growing. Having Invoice Callahan on workers goes to assist with that. Nonetheless, Tennessee is not accomplished constructing the unit and drafting a participant akin to Gray Zabel may assist.

The 6’6″, 301-pound lineman has performed guard and sort out for the Bison and will discover a residence at middle ultimately, per Brandon Thorn’s scouting report:

“Zabel exhibits starter-level bodily instruments with refined run blocking expertise and understanding of leverage that sign he can develop into a direct position participant and potential starter inside his first yr or two with middle possible being his finest match.”

The late bye week did not do the Washington Commanders any favors as they hit a three-game skid from mid- to late November.

Nevertheless, Washington bounced again forward of the week off and remains to be in nice form to make the playoffs. Moreover, it feels just like the franchise is forward of schedule to be on this place with a rookie quarterback.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on La’el Collins

Andrew Wylie missed Week 13 with an harm and hasn’t been nice this season. So, Washington would possibly need to look into signing one other proper sort out forward of the playoffs in case of an emergency.

Plus, Collins has expertise taking part in on the inside too. It could not damage to no less than carry him in for a exercise and see what he has left.

2025 Free Company: S Budda Baker, Arizona Cardinals

Washington may use some security assist because it’s one of many crew’s present weaknesses, and Jeremy Chinn, the protection’s finest participant on the place, is an impending free agent. A part of what makes Chinn so precious is he wears a number of hats, lining up within the field, taking part in because the deep security and overlaying the slot.

Baker can do all of that as effectively however is the superior participant. Heading into this previous weekend, the 28-year-old who turns 29 in January had earned protection and run protection grades from Pro Football Focus within the mid-70s whereas lining up all around the subject.

2025 NFL Draft: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

With Zach Ertz and John Bates being impending free brokers, the Commanders might be on the lookout for a decent finish within the offseason. Additionally, Daniels may use one other goal within the passing sport, which is the place the Nittany Lion thrives.

“In all, Tyler Warren is a gifted pass-catcher who’s dealing with the position as the highest offensive choice,” B/R’s offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson wrote within the Penn State product’s scouting report.

“He must be used as an H-back and flex tight finish early in his NFL profession till his run-blocking improves. Warren’s receiving versatility and upside will add one other aspect to a passing assault.”