NFL Crew Wants: Prioritizing Each Roster’s Largest Weaknesses Earlier than Week 17

There are extra questions than solutions throughout the NFL after Week 16 of the 2024 season, each for groups within the playoff image and for eradicated franchises which can be occupied with the long run.

The race for the No. 1 general choose—in addition to the No. 1 seeds in each conferences—stays up for grabs.

Each week of the season, we have been assessing the state of every roster with a specific give attention to its weaknesses. By the tip of the marketing campaign, we’ll have constructed an enormous board for each group based mostly on its greatest wants and needs. All the things from instant holes to fill to the offseason participant carousel of free company and the 2025 NFL draft is taken into consideration.

The weaknesses right here will not be simply knee-jerk reactions to the weekend’s video games, but additionally 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.

All of the Arizona Cardinals needed to do to maintain their playoff hopes alive was beat the Carolina Panthers on the street, however an time beyond regulation loss formally eradicated Arizona from the event. The Cardinals had been a scrappy group with a vivid future, but it surely felt all season just like the group was nonetheless a bit or two away from being a reliable contender.

That results in some heightened expectations heading into 2025 and what’s going to probably be a “prove-it” kind of marketing campaign for Jonathan Gannon, whose report falls to 11-21 as the top coach within the desert.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Shut down Paris Johnson Jr.

Johnson missed Sunday’s sport with a knee damage and, in keeping with the Sports Daily’s Kyle Odegard, suffered a sprained MCL that might sideline him for subsequent week as nicely. With simply two video games left and the Cardinals eradicated from the playoffs, there is no have to threat additional damage to the promising younger left deal with.

2025 Free Company: WR Tyler Boyd, Tennessee Titans

Greg Dortch has been underwhelming this season and is an impending restricted free agent. Additionally, Arizona is scheduled to lose Zay Jones and Zach Pascal in free company, so the membership may use some depth at extensive receiver even when Dortch is retained.

Granted, Boyd’s numbers are down in 2024 as nicely, however he is nonetheless outproduced the four-year professional whereas enjoying in an unstable offense with the Titans. Including the 30-year-old would give the offense a veteran goal who has a robust observe report in the case of working out of the slot.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Mike Inexperienced, Marshall

Edge-rusher will probably be one among normal supervisor Monti Ossenfort’s high priorities within the draft, because it’s one of many group’s greatest weaknesses. Moreover, the protection has a number of impending free brokers on the place, together with Baron Browning. So, school soccer’s sack chief will undoubtedly be on Ossenfort’s radar this spring.

“Inexperienced is a twitched-up pass-rusher who has go off the road to win across the edge with pace and confirmed a number of spectacular pass-rush strikes this previous season,” his scouting report says.

“… Moreover, the Marshall product takes environment friendly paths to the quarterback through the use of good angles, spectacular bend and dropping his pads all the way down to nook on the high of the frenzy. He additionally has nice closing pace and motor to get protection sacks.”

The Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback change was the group’s greatest story this week as Michael Penix Jr. made his first NFL begin instead of the benched Kirk Cousins.

Nonetheless, that ended up being extra of a sideshow through the sport, as Penix’s debut was slightly pedestrian with 202 yards, no touchdowns and an interception. Additionally, Atlanta did not want a unprecedented quarterback efficiency to beat down New York 34-7, as Bijan Robinson rushed for 2 touchdowns and Jessie Bates III logged a pick-six.

The win retains the group’s playoff and NFC South hopes alive with video games towards the Commanders and Panthers to shut out the season. Additionally, Atlanta controls its personal future with Tampa Bay’s loss.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Extra vertical targets for Kyle Pitts

Pitts bought off to a strong begin this season however has had underwhelming manufacturing within the second half. A part of the rationale for that needed to do with Cousins’ drop-off, because the QB’s arm power shortly deteriorated.

For instance, the tight finish has the bottom common depth of goal (8.8 yards) of his profession in 2024, over three yards lower than his 2023 determine, in keeping with Pro Football Focus.

Now that the strong-armed Penix is taking on, the Falcons ought to reap the benefits of Pitts’ distinctive ability set, which can assist enhance his productiveness.

2025 Free Company: CB Jourdan Lewis, Dallas Cowboys

Atlanta may afford to improve its nickelback spot over Dee Alford, who’s a restricted free agent this offseason. In the meantime, Lewis has a robust observe report manning the slot and should not be too costly in free company.

He’ll flip 30 in August and has put collectively a formidable marketing campaign this yr, logging 19 defensive stops and a 77.0 protection grade from Pro Football Focus by way of Week 15.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Mike Inexperienced, Marshall

It has been well-documented that the Falcons need assistance on the sting. On high of their struggles producing stress this season, Matt Judon and Lorenzo Carter are scheduled to hit free company. Inexperienced wasn’t an enormous identify to start this season, however he made a reputation for himself by main the nation with 17 sacks.

“Inexperienced is a twitched-up pass-rusher who has go off the road to win across the edge with pace and confirmed a number of spectacular pass-rush strikes this previous season,” his scouting report says.

“… Moreover, the Marshall product takes environment friendly paths to the quarterback through the use of good angles, spectacular bend and dropping his pads all the way down to nook on the high of the frenzy. He additionally has nice closing pace and motor to get protection sacks.”

Do not look now, however the Baltimore Ravens are reestablishing themselves as a scary group forward of the playoffs. They clinched a postseason berth with a 34-17 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The win saved them within the race to win the AFC North and saved hopes of incomes home-field benefit within the first spherical alive.

That is a scary thought for opposing groups. The Ravens’ dashing assault will give groups little margin for error, and the Steelers felt that weight. Their two turnovers had been an excessive amount of towards a Ravens offense that wore them out and a protection that closed out the sport.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Proceed to Lean on Derrick Henry

It is Derrick Henry season.

That is the time of yr when Henry will get going. The large operating again has traditionally averaged extra yards per carry with each passing month through the season. Now that it is late December and there are going to be extra cold-weather video games on the horizon, it is time for the Ravens to get their cash’s value.

Henry had 162 yards on 24 carries towards the Steelers. Successful the division goes to require the Ravens to win the following two weeks, so there is no time to carry again on unleashing Henry from right here till their last sport.

2025 Free Company: CB Carlton Davis, Detroit Lions

The cornerback place has been a headache all through the season for the Ravens. Including Tre’Davious White in the course of the marketing campaign did not assist, and Brandon Stephens has been a legal responsibility all yr. They’ve long-term reply in Nate Wiggins, however he is nonetheless a rookie who has handled some accidents.

The answer may lie in making an actual funding in a veteran on a short-term contract. Carlton Davis has helped the Lions stabilize their secondary and will present as much as do the identical factor in Baltimore. Beginning Davis and Wiggins on the surface whereas letting Marlon Humphrey man the slot may give the Ravens their superb secondary.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Marcus Mbow, Purdue

The Ravens may be capable of hold Ronnie Stanley round some time longer. He is set to grow to be a free agent within the offseason. However even when they will signal him to a brand new contract, they need to be occupied with his eventual alternative. He is 30 years previous and has by no means performed a whole season as a result of varied accidents.

Marcus Mbow could be a great prospect to focus on on this draft. He does not have the everyday deal with construct and should measure in under the 6’5″ that is listed on Purdue’s official roster; nonetheless, his athleticism will give him an opportunity to play the place like Rashawn Slater or Zach Tom. If that does not work out, he may shift inside, the place the Ravens additionally need assistance.

Week 16 was reminder for the Payments that profitable is not simple within the NFL.

On paper, they need to have blown out the Patriots. Josh Allen is making an attempt to win the MVP and the Payments try to safe the simplest path to the Tremendous Bowl, whereas the New England Patriots are simply trying to end the season beneath first-year head coach Jerod Mayo.

As an alternative, Buffalo discovered itself in a dogfight that highlighted a few of its weak factors. The Pats had been capable of churn out 126 yards on the bottom, and Drake Maye was capable of expose the secondary for 261 yards and two touchdowns.

That being stated, that is nonetheless a reliable menace to win all of it and Allen is probably going the MVP this yr.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Work on some solutions for Cowl 1

No matter the place the Payments are seeded, they’re now heading into the hyper-individualized sport planning that goes into playoff video games.

Each weak spot is exploited within the playoffs, and the Patriots may need laid out a blueprint for different groups to journey up the Buffalo passing assault. In keeping with Next Gen Stats, Allen was 6-of-17 for 50 yards with a landing and a choose towards Cowl 1 on Sunday.

It is not the tip of the world and Allen nonetheless made performs when he needed to, however the Payments are going to should work to make sure it is not one thing they do not have a solution for.

2025 Free Company: WR Josh Palmer, Los Angeles Chargers

The Payments did so much to overtake their receiver room this offseason, and the outcomes have been higher than most anticipated.

Khalil Shakir works because the trusted slot choice who finds a technique to get open, and Keon Coleman has grow to be the chief downfield menace. Mack Hollins has labored as the opposite outdoors receiver who does the soiled work and has dependable fingers, however he is an upcoming free agent and the Payments ought to look to improve.

Josh Palmer isn’t going to be a star, however he is grow to be a constant producer as a 3rd choice for the Chargers. He would probably obtain a lift simply from being in an offense as dynamic as Buffalo’s.

2025 NFL Draft: DT Nazir Stackhouse, Georgia

Ed Oliver is clearly the star of the Payments’ inside, however DaQuan Jones has additionally performed a important function because the group’s nostril deal with.

Nonetheless, the 33-year-old’s time as a run-stuffer may very well be coming to an finish quickly, and the Payments should be ready for that. That is the place Nazir Stackhouse may are available in.

The 6’3″, 320-pounder has the body and athleticism to grow to be NFL nostril deal with. He is not probably the most explosive participant, however he has first-step for his measurement and performs with energy.

Stackhouse is the sort of prospect who is not going to be flashy or crush the mix, however he may carve out a prolonged NFL profession as a job participant.

After the Carolina Panthers teetered on the sting of victory in three of their final 4 video games, Sunday’s time beyond regulation win needed to really feel good for Dave Canales, Bryce Younger and the remainder of the group.

Positive, it doesn’t suggest a lot within the massive image for Carolina, however getting over the hump is a step ahead for a younger group. And the cherry on high is the membership managed to play spoiler, eliminating Arizona from the postseason.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: See what Velus Jones Jr. can do

Carolina is at some extent within the season the place it’s making an attempt to see which gamers can contribute sooner or later. Jones was lately plucked off the Jaguars’ follow squad and has a singular ability set as a large receiver, operating again and kick returner.

At this level, the membership may as nicely get him on the sector as a lot as doable to see what the previous third-round choose can deliver. He may be capable of attain his full potential with a artistic offensive play-caller like Canales and grow to be the following Cordarrelle Patterson.

2025 Free Company: Edge Azeez Ojulari, New York Giants

Whereas Carolina inked Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum throughout free company final spring, the protection has gotten underwhelming manufacturing out of them. Additionally, these two signed simply two-year offers, and Clowney will probably be 32 in February.

So, the entrance workplace ought to discover including a youthful pass-rusher to the rotation. Ojulari will probably be 25 years previous in June and has 22 sacks in his profession heading into this weekend, together with six in 2024 whereas enjoying on a deep Giants line of defense.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

With Mike Jackson’s contract expiring on the finish of the season and Jaycee Horn coming into a contract yr subsequent fall, it would not be stunning to see GM Dan Morgan add a cornerback early within the draft. There aren’t many higher on this yr’s class than Michigan’s Will Johnson, as he ranks second on the place on B/R’s massive board.

“Johnson initiatives as one of many high cornerbacks on this yr’s draft, with the potential to be an affect participant early in his NFL profession,” the Wolverine’s scouting report says. “His mixture of measurement, size, physicality and flexibility in protection make him a priceless asset for any defensive scheme.

“Whereas he might want to refine his change of path and scale back his tendency to gamble in protection, Johnson’s skill to disrupt performs each within the air and on the bottom provides him a excessive ceiling. With correct teaching and improvement, Johnson can grow to be a top-tier defensive again within the NFL.”

If the Chicago Bears may fast-forward to subsequent season, they probably would have accomplished it weeks in the past. It seemed just like the group has accomplished that mentally, as Sunday’s sport was by no means shut, with Detroit leaping out to a 20-0 lead early within the second quarter.

All eyes are on the offseason in Chicago as a number of adjustments are coming.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Play Jonathan Ford extra

Andrew Billings’ season-ending damage left the Bears with a gap at nostril deal with that they’ve struggled to fill. Nonetheless, Ford had sport towards the Vikings in Week 15 to earn extra enjoying time.

Additionally, he is solely 26 years previous, whereas Billings will flip 30 within the offseason and has proven indicators of regression. So, the following few weeks could be alternative to judge the youthful participant, particularly since Billings will probably be coming into a contract yr in 2025.

2025 Free Company: G Will Hernandez, Arizona Cardinals

Chicago wants assistance on the inside offensive line, particularly in the case of defending Caleb Williams. Moreover, Teven Jenkins, Coleman Shelton and Matt Pryor are impending free brokers, so the place group must be one of many entrance workplace’s priorities within the offseason.

Hernandez has observe report in move safety, particularly during the last three seasons in Arizona. He is routinely earned grades within the 70s from Pro Football Focus in that division. Nonetheless, he’ll flip 30 in September and is coming off a season-ending knee damage, so this is able to rely on how his medicals take a look at.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Zy Alexander, LSU

Given Tyrique Stevenson’s struggles, GM Ryan Poles may very well be taking a look at taking a cornerback within the first three rounds of the draft. The LSU product may very well be goal and, at 6’2″ and 194 kilos, he suits the physique kind that Poles appears to covet in corners.

“Alexander initiatives as a middle-round choose with the potential to develop right into a beginning outdoors cornerback in a number of schemes,” the Tiger’s scouting report says. “His measurement, size, and skill to blanket receivers downfield give him a excessive ceiling, significantly towards bigger wideouts.

“Whereas his susceptibility to elite pace and a few technical inconsistencies could typically present up. Alexander’s aggressive nature and ball expertise make him a priceless addition to an NFL secondary. With refinement and expertise, he has the instruments to grow to be a dependable starter on the subsequent degree.”

The Cincinnati Bengals did every part they might to maintain their slim playoff hopes alive in Week 16. A 24-6 win over the Cleveland Browns means they nonetheless have a path to the playoffs, however they did not actually get the assistance they wanted from different video games.

The remainder of the AFC might be hoping they do not get that assist. The Bengals offense is frightening, and Joe Burrow is arguably enjoying higher than any quarterback this season. The protection has held this group again. They put collectively a robust efficiency towards Cleveland and appear to be enjoying higher…even when it is too little, too late.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Hold Giving Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson extra reps

It has been talked about on this house a number of occasions, however the Bengals should see what they’ve of their younger skills on the line of defense. Cedric Johnson and Myles Murphy have been mentioned right here, however the inside duo of Kris Jenkins Jr. and McKinnley Jackson made their presence identified towards the Browns.

Each Jenkins and Jackson recorded sacks on Sunday. Jenkins truly took down the quarterback twice, and each must be given extra alternatives to shine over the following two weeks.

2025 Free Company: Edge Dayo Odeyingbo, Indianapolis Colts

The Bengals have leaned closely on Trey Hendrickson and Sam Hubbard to play the lion’s share of snaps on the sting. Nonetheless, the cracks in that philosophy have began to indicate. Hendrickson remains to be producing at a excessive degree, however Hubbard’s manufacturing has waned as he approaches his age-30 season.

Dayo Odeyingbo may assist make up for the dearth of depth on the sides. The 25-year-old is hitting free company with 16.5 sacks during the last three seasons. His mixture of youth and productiveness at a premium place makes him one of many extra underrated potential free brokers.

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

It is grow to be clear that the Bengals are going to have to speculate closely in protection. They’ve been doing that, however they have not hit on their picks. Figuring out the fitting expertise goes to be important, and discovering a brand new technology of inside defenders will probably be a serious a part of that plan.

T.J. Sanders may assist. The 6’4″, 290-pound Gamecock has the fitting mix of size and mass to grow to be 3-tech within the league. That is a important function that the Bengals have to search out with B.J. Hill set to hit free company.

If the Browns had been hoping that Dorian Thompson-Robinson was going to deliver a spark to the offense then they got here away upset. In the event that they had been hoping that he would assist them tank the ultimate few video games of the season then they made the fitting name. The second-year quarterback struggled towards a Bengals protection that hasn’t been good many of the season.

He threw two interceptions and gave little purpose to consider that he is the quarterback of the long run. The Browns mustered simply six factors and at the moment are simply two video games from this season mercifully coming to an finish.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Begin placing collectively a plan for Myles Garrett

Dropping to Cincinnati is not all that regarding. It was anticipated at this level. The worst information of the week for Cleveland got here from Myles Garrett. The star pass-rusher is the anchor of the protection, however he let it’s identified that he is not up for another rebuild in Cleveland.

Given the cap constraints surrounding Deshaun Watson’s contract and simply how a lot the group struggled this season, the entrance workplace has its work lower out for it. The season is sort of over and Garrett goes to need to know what the plan is for the Browns to show issues round ASAP. They’d higher have a imaginative and prescient value pitching.

2025 Free Company: LB Tyrel Dodson, Miami Dolphins

The Browns protection has missed Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. His athleticism and flexibility make Jim Schwartz’s job simpler. Jordan Hicks has put collectively a good season for the Browns, however he is additionally 32 years previous. Devin Bush has proven indicators of having the ability to do the job, however he is set to grow to be a free agent.

The Browns may improve their place group by signing Tyrel Dodson. He is confirmed his value by being an asset for each the Seattle Seahawks and Miami Dolphins this season along with his work on the Buffalo Payments protection final season. He is an athletic backer who may cowl if JOK will get injured once more.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Tre Harris, Ole Miss

Jerry Jeudy is rising as a real No. 1 receiver for the Browns. It is a welcomed improvement because the Browns wanted him to try this after buying and selling away Amari Cooper. The Browns general receiving corps nonetheless appears like a number of unmolded potential, although. Cedric Tillman and Jamari Thrash may very well be staples, however they have not confirmed that but.

Tre Harris may need the next ceiling than all of them. Here is a snippet of his scouting report from Dame Parson:

“Tre Harris profiles as a robust possession receiver with good run-after-catch skill. He’s alignment versatile and may play all three extensive receiver positions successfully. Along with his route operating, power, and soccer IQ, Harris initiatives as a productive beginning receiver on the subsequent degree.”

Somebody forgot to inform the Dallas Cowboys they had been eradicated from the playoffs heading into their Week 16 matchup towards the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Regardless of having nothing to play for, Dallas got here out of the gates swinging and held on to get the win and enhance its report to 7-8.

Now the query is will that be ok for Mike McCarthy to maintain his job and earn a brand new contract within the offseason?

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Give Israel Mukuamu extra enjoying time

With simply two weeks left within the season, the Cowboys ought to give attention to evaluating the younger gamers on their roster to see who’s value protecting round. The protection has a handful of impending free brokers within the secondary, together with Mukuamu.

It would be value it to see what the 25-year-old can deliver to the desk, particularly because the membership has been enjoying him at totally different positions all through his profession. This subsequent couple of video games may function a tryout for subsequent season.

2025 Free Company: LT Cam Robinson, Minnesota Vikings

Tyler Guyton struggled this season, particularly in move safety. Whereas the rookie may flip it round in yr two, Dallas ought to take into account bringing in a veteran for some competitors at left deal with. That may assist hold its Tremendous Bowl window open and ensure Dak Prescott, who will probably be coming off an damage, stays upright.

Robinson has a protracted observe report of being blindside protector within the NFL. Including him in free company on a short-term deal would give the offense one other beginning choice and permit Guyton one other yr to develop.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

Trevon Diggs may miss the start of subsequent season along with his knee damage, and Jourdan Lewis is an impending free agent. DaRon Bland can be solely signed by way of 2025, so do not be shocked if Morrison is on Jerry Jones’ radar.

“Morrison is a flexible cornerback prospect out of Notre Dame, identified for his quickness, fluidity, and skill to play each outdoors and within the slot,” Cory Giddings wrote in his scouting report.

“Standing at 6′ and weighing 190 kilos, Morrison brings a well-rounded ability set to the place. His athleticism, mixed along with his physicality and soccer IQ, make him a compelling choice for NFL groups trying to bolster their secondary. He’s a former Freshman All-American with a ton of enjoying expertise beneath his belt.”

The Denver Broncos had a golden alternative to place a long way between themselves and the Los Angeles Chargers within the wild-card race. A win over their AFC West rival would have put them within the driver’s seat for the sixth seed.

As an alternative, they made a number of too many errors and allowed the Chargers to remain within the sport too lengthy. Regardless of a 21-10 lead within the first half, the Chargers had been capable of safe the victory within the fourth quarter. It is a reminder that the Broncos have made a ton of progress in 2024, however they may not be prepared for playoff soccer simply but.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Make Audric Estime the lead again

This was a tricky loss, but it surely wasn’t all dangerous. As an example, the Broncos’ run sport seemed higher than it has for many of the season. Denver was capable of acquire 110 yards on the bottom on 21 carries. Bo Nix helped with 25 yards on three carries, but it surely was Estime who led the best way. The rookie had 48 yards on 9 carries, which led the group in each classes.

Nix and the offense would profit from a greater operating sport, and placing Estime on the high of the depth chart may very well be the spark it wants.

2025 Free Company: DT Milton Williams, Philadelphia Eagles

The Broncos have a number of good issues going for them on protection. Nonetheless, the depth alongside the defensive entrance is a priority. Zach Allen and John Franklin-Myers are good, however they’re each type of 5-technique hybrids. D.J. Jones is a extra pure defensive deal with, however the 29-year-old is not getting any youthful.

Including Milton Williams would go a good distance towards finishing the group. He’ll be 26 subsequent season and is placing collectively his greatest yr but with 5 sacks.

2025 NFL Draft: TE Jake Briningstool, Clemson

The Broncos have their franchise quarterback to construct round. Bo Nix is not excellent, however he is proven greater than sufficient to consider he might be the man for a few years to return. Now Denver has to present him the instruments to succeed.

Discovering a pass-catching tight finish could be step towards that objective. The Greg Dulcich experiment didn’t finish nicely, and the Broncos have been counting on a committee of Adam Trautman, Nate Adkins and Lucas Krull.

Jake Briningstool would inject some life into that place group. The 6’6″, 240-pounder is not a devastating blocker, however he drew a comparability to Mike Gesicki in Dame Parson’s scouting report. His skill to play within the slot would give Sean Payton one other component to work into his offense.

The Detroit Lions is likely to be lacking a number of injured gamers, but it surely was exhausting to inform on Sunday.

Positive, enjoying Chicago helps, however the Motor Metropolis membership seemed like a well-oiled machine with a 34-17 win. Even higher, Philadelphia misplaced, so Detroit has probability at locking up the NFC’s No. 1 seed with a win in Week 18 towards Minnesota.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal a veteran nook

Final week, a defensive deal with was instructed after Alim McNeill’s damage. However the Lions’ cornerback room additionally took hits with Carlton Davis III and Khalil Dorsey occurring injured reserve, and the protection wanted assist at nook earlier than these two went down.

At this level, the membership must be wanting into any veteran obtainable to present the secondary extra choices heading into the playoffs. A few names to drift round could be Patrick Peterson or Xavien Howard.

2025 Free Company: G Robert Jones, Miami Dolphins

Kevin Zeitler is about to be a 35-year-old free agent, whereas Graham Glasgow will flip 33 in the summertime and solely has two years left on his deal. Additionally, Glasgow has been having a down season as his grade from Pro Football Focus dipped to barely under common heading into this weekend.

So, Detroit may very well be in search of a younger potential starter on the open market throughout free company. Jones will flip simply 26 years previous subsequent month and has been a strong participant all through his profession, making the Dolphin match within the Motor Metropolis.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina

Davis, Dorsey, Emmanuel Moseley and Kindle Vildor are all impending free brokers, so count on Brad Holmes to make use of one among his first draft picks on a cornerback for the second yr in a row. The East Carolina product is coming off a torn ACL, however he has loads of traits to be a high quality nook on the subsequent degree.

“Revel initiatives as an early-round choose with the potential to make a direct affect as an out of doors cornerback,” the previous Pirate’s scouting report says. “His size, pace, and physicality are superb traits for defending big-bodied receivers on the surface and dealing with vertical routes.

“Whereas his ball expertise and eye self-discipline may restrict his skill to generate turnovers, Revel’s skill to blanket receivers and disrupt performs on the line makes him a priceless asset. With additional refinement, he has the ceiling to develop right into a high-level beginning cornerback on the subsequent degree.”

In dominant trend, the Inexperienced Bay Packers formally punched their ticket into the playoffs on Monday evening.

Whereas Inexperienced Bay does not have an opportunity at profitable the NFC North and is locked right into a Wild Card spot, the group is a division winner’s worst nightmare heading into the postseason. The Packers are scorching and have solely misplaced two video games on the street to 2 of one of the best groups within the convention, the Lions and Eagles.

Largest Weaknesses:

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

The Jaire Alexander state of affairs is, for lack of a greater time period, bizarre. He was a full participant in two practices throughout Week 15 however did not play within the sport and hasn’t seen the sector a lot within the second half of the season. He additionally missed Weeks 4 and 5, so it does not look like the group can depend on him transferring ahead.

Heading into the playoffs, it could be sensible so as to add one other veteran simply in case. Patrick Peterson was instructed a few weeks in the past as he or Howard may very well be respectable choices.

2025 Free Company: IOL Evan Brown, Arizona Cardinals

Inexperienced Bay is broadly anticipated to be wanting into middle choices this spring since Josh Myers’ contract is about to run out and he has underperformed after being a second-round choose in 2021.

Brown may very well be a strong alternative who should not value an excessive amount of on the open market. Whereas he is lined up at left guard for the Cardinals this yr, he has loads of expertise at middle as nicely.

Worst case, Inexperienced Bay will get a flexible inside offensive lineman by signing the SMU product, who turns 29 in September.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Ajani Cornelius, Oregon

One other method the Packers may handle their middle drawback is by sliding proper deal with Zach Tom over, which was discussed this past spring.

If that occurs, the membership may goal Cornelius as he has the potential to grow to be a high quality starter, in keeping with B/R’s Brandon Thorn.

“Cornelius excels within the run sport, utilizing his giant body and heavy fingers to cowl up defenders on angle-drive blocks and jolt defensive tackles over on double groups,” the Oregon Duck’s scouting report stated.

“He has excellent grip power and leg drive to drive backers on their heels and steer them away from the ball as soon as latched. Cornelius is an opportunistic finisher with the ability to dump and end defenders as soon as he generates momentum within the drive-phase of the block.”

Week 16 couldn’t have gone a lot worse for the Houston Texans. Not solely did they drop a 27-19 sport to the Chiefs, however additionally they suffered a number of key accidents. Tank Dell was hospitalized after a knee damage, Jimmie Ward appeared to have suffered a serious foot damage and Shaq Mason was additionally knocked out of the sport.

The Texans have already clinched a playoff spot, however they is likely to be backing into the postseason. Until they catch a number of constructive damage breaks, they may have an excessive amount of to beat.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Promote Scott Quessenberry from follow squad

The Texans are operating out of choices up entrance. Accidents had been already a problem, and Houston bought much more dangerous information out of this sport. Mason left the sport with a knee damage, which goes to harm an already weak offensive inside.

Juice Scruggs additionally missed the sport with a foot damage. Kenyon Inexperienced may very well be compelled again into the lineup if Mason’s damage causes him to overlook extra time. Both method, the Texans must be wanting into selling Scott Quessenberry from the follow squad. He is an skilled beginning middle who began 16 video games for the group in 2022.

2025 Free Company: LB Jamien Sherwood, New York Jets

The Texans haven’t got an enormous want at linebacker, however a few of that relies on how they view Azeez Al-Shaair. The linebacker was suspended for 3 video games for his Week 13 hit on Trevor Lawrence. He is beneath contract by way of 2026, however his contract is cuttable earlier than then.

If the Texans need to have a transparent exit technique, then signing Jamien Sherwood could be an enormous addition. The 24-year-old has been a breakout star for the Jets this season with 134 tackles and 9 tackles for a loss going into Week 16.

2025 NFL Draft: RB RJ Harvey, UCF

The Texans run sport has seemingly hit a wall over the previous few weeks. That is totally on an offensive line that has struggled all through the season, but it surely’s additionally honest to say that the Texans should discover a again to separate the job with Joe Mixon within the close to future.

UCF’s RJ Harvey could be an fascinating match. The 5’9″, 205-pound again is not probably the most bodily runner, however he is a sensible, affected person participant who excels at studying his blocks and discovering daylight. His one-cut decisiveness and skill to get probably the most out of his blocks would assist him discover success in coordinator Bobby Slowik’s offense.

(Previous Week’s Selections: Convey up Andrew Beck from follow squad, DL Chauncey Golston, IOL Tate Ratledge)

The Indianapolis Colts are nonetheless alive within the AFC playoff race after beating the Tennessee Titans 38-30.

Successful over a division rival this late within the season is at all times good, and the Colts wanted this one to stay within the playoff race.

They nonetheless want little bit of assist to make the postseason subject, however the truth that they’re in it this late within the season is an effective end result given a few of their struggles this yr.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Scheme some simple completions for Anthony Richardson

Richardson and Jonathan Taylor had been the engine that drove the Colts’ dashing sport to 335 yards on the bottom towards the Titans. They had been unimaginable to cease.

Among the best issues the Colts had been capable of do was put up a bunch of factors whereas the quarterback threw the ball simply 11 occasions.

That is likely to be one of the best plan transferring ahead. Richardson is dangerously near Tim Tebow’s report for the lowest completion percentage amongst certified passers. The 22-year-old has accomplished simply 47 % of his passes this season.

Scheming him to get some screens and different high-percentage throws so he can a minimum of finish the season on a constructive observe could be good for long-term confidence within the younger signal-caller.

2025 Free Company: TE Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints

There may very well be a stunning marketplace for Johnson come spring. He is not the flashiest addition for a group, however the free-agent tight finish class is actually shallow.

The 28-year-old is likely one of the few with confirmed receiving manufacturing. His greatest promoting level is that he is a strong red-zone receiving menace, scoring 18 touchdowns during the last 4 years.

The Colts may use that sort of manufacturing. Johnson is not near main tight ends in any class, however Kylen Granson and Mo Alie-Cox mixed for 26 receptions and 273 yards with one landing going into final Sunday’s sport.

2025 NFL Draft: LB Lander Barton, Utah

The Colts protection has a pair areas for enchancment, however upgrading the linebacker may assistance on all fronts. E.J. Velocity is a 30-year-old free agent, and so they haven’t got notable depth outdoors of fellow starter Zaire Franklin. The result’s a group that may very well be taking a look at linebacker pretty early within the draft.

Barton goes to be a reputation to observe towards the highest of the category.

“Lander Barton comes from an athletic household, and it exhibits in his play. Motion expertise are the muse of his sport, as he has loads of athleticism and unfastened hips to be efficient in man protection and tighten throwing home windows when enjoying zone. His skill to maneuver laterally additionally helps him keep away from the trash towards the run and execute hole exchanges,” B/R’s Matt Holder wrote in his scouting report.

The Jacksonville Jaguars had no actual purpose to win their Week 16 sport towards the Raiders.

It was one of the vital video games of the week for draft positioning. The Jaguars had been lucky sufficient to get a number of promising performances from their youthful gamers whereas persevering with to maneuver up the draft board.

Brian Thomas Jr. was the largest star. He hauled in 9 passes for 132 yards and a landing. That is a promising signal as a result of the Jags are going to have to determine how every part went improper within the offseason whereas transferring on from a few of their costlier contracts.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Play Myles Cole extra

The largest factor the Jaguars can get out of those final two video games is a greater have a look at their younger gamers. The chance for gamers comparable to Cole to get NFL sport reps when it actually does not matter are one of many few upsides of a misplaced season.

The undrafted free agent has performed sporadically all through the season, however he registered a TFL in motion towards the Raiders.

Cole is a seventh-round choose with incredible athleticism and outlier size. These sport reps over the following two weeks may assist him grow to be a contributor subsequent season.

2025 Free Company: WR Curtis Samuel, Buffalo Payments

The Jaguars enter the offseason with a necessity for an offensive overhaul.

A participant comparable to Christian Kirk, who solely performed eight video games earlier than heading to injured reserve, may very well be lower to create cap house. That may probably drive the group to search for cheaper options on the free-agent market.

Nobody goes to get too enthusiastic about signing Curtis Samuel, however he may very well be a helpful veteran weapon who will not command an excessive amount of cash. The 28-year-old may very well be backup plan if Parker Washington is not able to take the following step.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Zy Alexander, LSU

It actually would not be stunning to see the Jaguars goal a number of defensive backs within the 2025 draft. That is very true if they do not land Travis Hunter or Will Johnson with their first choose.

Wanting past the primary spherical, Zy Alexander is a reputation that must be on their radar.

Listed at 6’2″, 194 kilos, he has the best size at nook and does nicely to drive on the ball out of his backpedal. He is not excellent in press protection at this level, but it surely’s one thing that he has the uncooked instruments to select up.

The Jaguars haven’t got a number of younger, thrilling choices at cornerback proper now. Alexander would change that.

(Previous Week’s Selections: Proceed to see what Brenton Unusual can do, CB Byron Murphy Jr., IOL Emery Jones Jr.)

There have been a number of constructive takeaways for the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs in Saturday’s 27-19 win over the Houston Texans. For one, Patrick Mahomes’ mobility was simply fantastic after he suffered an ankle damage the earlier week. He ran for 33 yards and a landing whereas placing up 260 yards with a landing and no interceptions.

Marquise “Hollywood” Brown made a profitable debut with the Chiefs. He had 5 receptions for 45 yards and will give Mahomes yet one more weapon to make the most of because the group will get prepared for a playoff run.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Be sure Chris Jones is wholesome for playoffs

The Chiefs took one other important step towards securing the No. 1 general seed. That playoff bye may very well be essential because the Chiefs have had a number of shut calls this season. Attending to skip one sport on their technique to a 3rd Tremendous Bowl may matter greater than in earlier runs.

That being stated, the Chiefs have to guarantee that Chris Jones is able to go. The defensive deal with left Week 16’s sport towards the Texans with a calf pressure. The Chiefs have a brief week earlier than enjoying the Steelers on Christmas Day. It nonetheless is likely to be smart to relaxation Jones and rely on the remainder of the protection to beat the Steelers to make sure the star is prepared when it issues most.

2025 Free Company: CB D.J. Reed, New York Jets

The Chiefs have missed L’Jarius Sneed this season. Buying and selling the cornerback to Tennessee was nonetheless most likely the fitting team-building transfer, however there is no denying that he would make the Chiefs secondary higher proper now.

Kansas Metropolis will probably have to draft a nook sooner or later. It has accomplished job of drafting and growing expertise on the place. Nonetheless, signing a veteran with a confirmed observe report like D.J. Reed would give the secondary the next flooring subsequent yr.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri

Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid can cowl for a large number of weaknesses on offense, however the Chiefs’ lack of weapons actually damage them this season. They weren’t capable of pile up factors like they’ve up to now, and the receiver corps did not assist. After all, Rashee Rice and Brown’s prolonged absences damage. In the end, the Chiefs have to hit on a draft choose on the place to get one other difference-maker on a rookie contract.

Luther Burden III must have a little bit of a draft-day fall, however the match is just too good to disregard. Burden is not the identical sort of speedster as Isaiah Worthy, however he must be a grasp at working beneath routes and turning them into lengthy beneficial properties. His after-the-catch skill would give Mahomes one other weapon who could make life simpler.

The Raiders gained this week, but it surely’s exhausting to contemplate them winners.

A 19-14 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars does not do a lot for the group aside from probably take it out of the Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward sweepstakes.

There aren’t many top-tier quarterback prospects on this yr’s class, and the Raiders had been in prime place to get the No. 1 choose earlier than their win over Jacksonville.

After all, Aidan O’Connell does not care concerning the Raiders getting the highest choose and he did sufficient to get the W. The second-year participant may need simply put himself within the dialog to start out subsequent season relying on how the free-agent carousel and draft work out for Vegas.

Largest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Play Ameer Abdullah much less

Taking part in a participant like Ameer Abdullah this late right into a misplaced season is the sort of transfer that does not make a number of sense.

He performed an integral function within the Raiders’ win over the Jaguars. He was the group’s main rusher and second-leading receiver, racking up 85 whole yards and a landing.

Abdullah is a 31-year-old operating again on a one-year contract. There’s little probability he is a part of the answer subsequent season and does not make the image any clearer for the Raiders.

It does not make a number of sense to maintain enjoying him and permitting him to propel Vegas to a different late-season win.

2025 Free Company: DT Sebastian Joseph-Day, Tennessee Titans

Dropping Christian Wilkins for the season clearly damage the Raiders’ plan at defensive deal with. However enjoying 31-year-old Adam Butler and 36-year-old John Jenkins for almost all of the snaps on the within additionally meant they actually solely had a one-year plan.

If the defensive goes to take a step ahead subsequent yr, Las Vegas wants Wilkins to return again as a dominant participant and doubtless wants so as to add yet another defensive deal with.

Joseph-Day is an skilled veteran who has loved success as a run-stuffer with Tennessee this season. The 29-year-old is not going to set the world on hearth, however he is not going to be a legal responsibility both.

2025 NFL Draft: RB Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State

The Las Vegas offense ought to look very totally different in 2025. Not solely will it want to search out its beginning quarterback, however the backfield may use reworking too.

The mixture of Zamir White and Alexander Mattison did not do a lot to assist the struggling unit and the brand new quarterback will want a greater floor sport to lean on.

Ollie Gordon II’s inventory took a serious hit over the course of the school soccer season, however he is nonetheless an fascinating prospect.

“He blends NFL measurement and power nicely to suit right into a gap-scheme dashing offense. When Gordon can assault decisively downhill with good blocking, he’ll create points for the second and third-level defenders. At full pace, he finishes runs and can set the tone early in video games if given the possibility,” Dame Parson famous in his scouting report.

The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off Week 16 with a outstanding come-from-behind win over the Broncos on Thursday Night time Soccer. The Broncos jumped out to a 21-10 lead within the first half, however the Chargers continued to chip away and overtook the Broncos within the fourth quarter. The win moved Los Angeles forward of Denver within the AFC playoff image.

Each groups would make the playoffs in the event that they had been held subsequent week, however the Chargers would have the sixth seed.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Channel their second-half protection

The Chargers protection was coming off giving up 40 factors to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and seemed to be heading down the identical path. They gave up three touchdowns within the first half to the Broncos earlier than lastly placing the clamps on their offense within the second half. The Broncos scored simply six factors, and it enabled the comeback.

No matter changes the Chargers made, they should be the catalyst for the unit transferring ahead. If the D can play like that, L.A. will probably be harmful come playoff time.

2025 Free Company: CB Paulson Adebo, New Orleans Saints

The Chargers should decide on Asante Samuel Jr., and it is not going to be simple. On one hand, he is proven the potential to be a high nook. On the opposite, he spent most of this season on injured reserve with a shoulder damage. The Chargers wanted this season to get some readability on how they need to worth him.

They might decide to signal one other younger nook coming off an damage in a contract yr. Paulson Adebo has performed a lot better than Samuel general, however he’ll be coming into free company coming off a damaged femur after enjoying seven video games this season. The Chargers must be extra keen to take the danger of signing him than re-signing Samuel.

2025 NFL Draft: S Malachi Moore, Alabama

The Chargers protection took an enormous step this season however has been uncovered towards a few of the greatest offenses it has confronted. The following step is solidifying the secondary to carry up towards elite passing assaults. A part of that plan must be discovering one other security within the draft.

That ought to put Malachi Moore on their radar. There are a number of safeties on this who which can be good at enjoying near the road of scrimmage and becoming the run. Moore is likely one of the few who makes a speciality of protection, as famous by Cory Giddings in his scouting report:

“His strengths in deep protection and man-to-man versatility make him a priceless asset, significantly in schemes emphasizing zone protection or requiring safeties to cowl slot receivers. Whereas he could have to develop extra physicality and enhance his skill to disengage from blockers, Moore’s ball expertise and instincts give him a strong basis upon which to construct.”

It definitely wasn’t fairly for the Los Angeles Rams as they threw for simply 110 yards and did not maintain a lead till the fourth quarter.

Nonetheless, Kyren Williams’ 122 dashing yards and a landing had been sufficient to get the job accomplished towards the Jets in New York.

Week 16 was actually form to L.A. as each different group within the division misplaced, establishing a chance for the Rams to clinch the division with a house win on Saturday towards Arizona.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Add a veteran nook

The Rams’ cornerbacks have been subpar nearly all season because it’s arguably the group’s greatest weak spot heading into the playoffs.

So, the entrance workplace ought to take into account including a veteran forward of the postseason as a possible contributor, just like what it did with Eric Weddle through the 2021 Tremendous Bowl run.

Two names to contemplate are Patrick Peterson and Xavien Howard.

2025 Free Company: DT Poona Ford, Los Angeles Chargers

Bobby Brown III is scheduled to hit free company this offseason and if he walks, L.A. may have an enormous gap to fill on the line of defense, actually and figuratively.

Whereas the 24-year-old does not contribute a lot as a pass-rusher, he’s a high quality two-down defender who can plug up gaps towards the run.

In the meantime, Ford has put collectively a strong seven-year profession doing simply that within the trenches.

The Texas product, who turns 30 in November, and is having marketing campaign in 2024 with 20 “defensive stops” and a 77.5 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus heading into this weekend.

Ford has additionally had respectable contributions as a pass-rusher with 23 pressures and three batted passes.

2025 NFL Draft: TE Gunnar Helm, Texas

As talked about, Les Snead ought to take into account drafting a good finish this spring given Tyler Higbee’s age, contract state of affairs and damage historical past.

So, the Rams normal supervisor is probably going doing a little homework on this yr’s draft class on the place, and the Texas product may catch his eye.

“As a passer catcher, Helm brings purposeful athleticism and motion expertise to the tight finish place,” the Longhorn’s scouting report says. “His route salesmanship is respectable—he makes use of his physique to lean and break in the wrong way towards man protection. Helm excels towards zone defenses and presents an enormous physique within the smooth spots of the protection shell.”

The Dolphins remained within the group of three groups (Colts, Dolphins, Bengals) which can be on the perimeter of the wild-card race within the AFC.

Mike McDaniel’s aspect earned a 29-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers, and there is a viable path for the Dolphins to make the playoffs.

They should win out over these final two video games and can nonetheless want Denver to lose out whereas the Colts lose one among their two last video games. That is not out of the realm of risk, and the Dolphins would get an opportunity to be an fascinating No. 7 seed.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Lengthen Jevon Holland

The Dolphins are just about out of competition, so they may need to begin wanting ahead to 2025 and make some choices on their impending free brokers.

Jevon Holland is likely one of the most vital. The 24-year-old is a key cog within the Dolphins run protection and ok in protection to warrant a brand new contract.

Miami does not produce other nice choices on the roster, so letting him go would most likely require it to search out two starters on the place subsequent season.

2025 Free Company: S Andre Cisco, Jacksonville Jaguars

The Dolphins must be fascinated by nearly each beginning security, particularly these beneath 30 years previous and competent final season. That is going to be very true if they do not come to phrases on an settlement with Jevon Holland. However even when they do, they’re going to want to search out one other starter as a result of Jordan Poyer has grow to be part of the beginning lineup at 33 years previous.

Cisco has struggled at occasions this season, however the Jaguars protection hasn’t precisely been a beacon of consistency. Maybe transferring to South Seashore may unlock a brand new degree of play for him.

2025 NFL Draft: LB Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

The Dolphins protection has been fairly strong this season, but it surely was leaning on Tyrel Dodson and Anthony Walker Jr. to play a number of linebacker.

Each are set to grow to be free brokers this season, so discovering a minimum of one alternative by way of the draft would permit the Dolphins to construct a extra sustainable protection over the following few seasons.

Jihaad Campbell is sort of a singular prospect for Miami to focus on. He is primarily an off-ball linebacker, however he drew a comparability to Baron Browning from B/R’s Ryan Fowler as a result of his skill to make performs on third downs. He is an adept blitzer with good protection expertise as well.

(Previous Week’s Selections: Signal Tyquan Thornton from Chiefs follow squad, WR Darius Slayton, DT Derrick Harmon)

It is not at all times the prettiest, however the Minnesota Vikings simply discover methods to win ball video games.

They trailed with 4:21 to play on Sunday however scored simply 30 seconds later as Sam Darnold related with Justin Jefferson in the long run zone for the second time of the afternoon to tug off the 27-24 victory in Seattle.

Moreover, the Eagles misplaced, which clears a path for the Vikings to play for the No. 1 seed within the NFC over the following two weeks.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: None

The Vikings are rolling and prevented a serious damage to Brian O’Neill’s knee. Additionally, Stephon Gilmore returned this week, so there is no have to make any adjustments for the time being.

2025 Free Company: DL Milton Williams, Philadelphia Eagles

Minnesota’s inside move rush may use a lift, and that can solely intensify when Jerry Tillery, Jonathan Bullard and Jihad Ward hit the open market this offseason.

Williams may assist resolve that drawback since he is having a formidable marketing campaign as a pass-rusher with a career-high 5 sacks heading into this weekend.

Additionally, Pro Football Focus credited the 25-year-old with 33 whole pressures (tied for twenty second amongst inside defenders) and an elite 90.3 grade as a rusher (second).

2025 NFL Draft: S Billy Bowman Jr., Oklahoma

With Harrison Smith’s and Camryn Bynum’s contracts about to run out, Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will probably be in search of a minimum of one security within the draft.

In the meantime, Billy Bowman Jr. presently has a third-round grade from B/R’s scouting division and has drawn comparisons to Tyrann Mathieu.

“Bowman Jr. is a brilliant, instinctual security prospect with the flexibility to play at a number of ranges of the protection,” the previous Sooner’s scouting report says. “Identified for his soccer IQ and aggressive play fashion, Bowman has made an affect at Oklahoma along with his bodily run protection and dependable protection expertise, regardless of his lack of measurement and size.”

Week 16 went about in addition to the Patriots may have hoped for.

They wanted to indicate indicators of life to show Jerod Mayo is making progress as head coach, however additionally they wanted to lose to remain within the high 5 of the 2025 draft order.

They did each.

Drake Maye put up higher numbers than Josh Allen in a 24-21 loss to the Payments. It is an encouraging signal that issues are headed in the fitting path, but it surely’s additionally affirmation that there is nonetheless numerous work to do as they presently maintain the second choose within the draft.

Largest Weaknesses:

Add Now: End the tank job

The Patriots now return residence for the ultimate two video games of the season. With the Chargers and Payments making up the ultimate two weeks of the schedule, there’s an opportunity for a shock win within the last week of the season. That may be ill-advised.

This draft class is shaping as much as have two quarterbacks on the high of the draft in Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward. If the Patriots can maintain on to the second choose, it would current a chance to get a bounty of choices in a commerce with a QB-desperate group.

That is most likely the best-case situation, because the Patriots have extra wants than one draft choose can repair.

2025 Free Company: DT Bobby Brown III, Los Angeles Rams

The Patriots bought some nice information late within the season when Christian Barmore returned to the lineup after sitting out most of this season with blood clots. His presence makes the group’s line of defense higher and offers them some long-term solutions.

Barmore wants some reinforcements, although. With 31-year-old Daniel Ekuale set to hit free company, they might use a youthful free agent like Bobby Brown III to fill the gaps. The Rams nostril deal with would assist anchor the run protection for years to return.

2025 NFL Draft: Edge Mike Inexperienced, Marshall

The Patriots misplaced a number of pass-rush manufacturing once they shipped off each Josh Uche and Matthew Judon. Each had been logical strikes, although.

They wanted to be sellers on the commerce deadline and saved cash whereas gaining draft picks within the offers. Nonetheless, it almost assured the Patriots have to take some edge-rushers within the subsequent draft or two.

Mike Inexperienced is not going to be an every-down participant for some time, however he is among the finest pure pass-rushers within the draft class.

The Marshall product led the nation with 17 sacks this season. His bend, get-off and pace across the edge will give him an opportunity to play an analogous function to Uche immediately.

Eradicated from the playoffs, the New Orleans Saints are enjoying out the remainder of the season as a formality. They seemed like a group that was simply going by way of the motions on Monday evening, changing into the primary membership to get shut out in 2024.

Two extra video games are all that is left earlier than an offseason the place loads of adjustments look like looming in New Orleans.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Give Jaylan Ford snaps

The Saints entered Week 16 with a lower than one % probability of creating the playoffs, in keeping with Next Gen Stats. So, it is time to consider the younger gamers on the roster.

Demario Davis turns 36 subsequent month and 2025 will probably be a contract yr for him. Moreover, the group is trending towards a rebuild this spring and will save $4 million of cap house by making him a post-June 1 lower, per Over The Cap.

In the meantime, Ford has a future with the group however the rookie hadn’t recorded a defensive snap heading into this weekend. With two simply two video games left, the entrance workplace ought to push for the fifth-round choose to get enjoying time.

2025 Free Company: WR Elijah Moore, Cleveland Browns

Whereas New Orleans has Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed beneath contract as one-two punch out extensive, the offense may use some depth on the place and somebody who can function out of the slot.

Moore has been a decently productive inside receiver throughout his four-year profession, racking up almost 200 catches for over 2,100 yards and 9 touchdowns by way of Week 15 of this season. Additionally, He’ll be simply 25 years previous in March to assist add some youth to the roster.

2025 NFL Draft: QB Cade Klubnik, Clemson

It might be smart for Mickey Loomis to maneuver on from Derek Carr this offseason seeing because the Saints are presently projected to start the offseason $63.8 million over the cap, per OTC, and making Carr a post-June 1 lower would save $30 million. Additionally, he’s about to be 34 within the spring.

The issue is the Saints probably will not be within the vary of drafting one of many high quarterbacks on this yr’s class with out buying and selling up and the QB3 dialogue is up for debate. The Clemson product may make a case for the latter and a minimum of deliver competitors to the place group with Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler.

“As a passer, he possesses arm to make high-end throws from the pocket and on the transfer,” the Tiger’s scouting report says. “Klubnik delivers middle-of-the-field passes with good velocity and zip. Within the brief and intermediate parts of the sector, Klubnik can drive passes into tight home windows.

“His skill to make throws when flushed out of the pocket has been nice. Klubnik makes use of his athleticism to show nothing into one thing and assist pull the offense out of a gap.”

If the New York Giants are tanking, they’re doing a terrific job of it.

They bought demolished for the second week in a row and have now misplaced six multi-possession video games this season.

The excellent news is Las Vegas gained, placing the G-Males in charge of their very own future for the No. 1 choose.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Play Jalin Hyatt extra

Whereas Hyatt has been a disappointment up to now, Darius Slayton’s contract is about to run out and the Giants don’t have anything to play for over the following two weeks.

The teaching employees may as nicely give the 23-year-old receiver extra alternatives to see if he can construct some confidence heading into subsequent season.

2025 Free Company: G James Daniels, Pittsburgh Steelers

New York is predicted to herald a brand new quarterback this offseason, so the group ought to do every part it might to guard the way forward for its franchise.

With Greg Van Roten solely on a one-year deal and turning 35 in February, the offensive line will probably have a gap to fill at proper guard.

Daniels could be match primarily as a result of he has a robust observe report in move safety. Whereas he has missed nearly all of 2024 with a torn Achilles, he solely allowed one sack and 22 pressures on 531 pass-blocking snaps two years in the past, in keeping with Pro Football Focus.

Plus, he does not flip 28 till September and may very well be pickup for a rebuilding membership.

2025 NFL Draft: QB Cade Klubnik, Clemson

Whereas Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are the headliners, Giants followers ought to familiarize themselves with a few of the mid-round choices within the draft in case the group opts to deal with one other want on Day 1.

Klubnik presently has a second-round grade from B/R’s scouting division and will acquire some curiosity through the pre-draft course of.

“As a passer, he possesses arm to make high-end throws from the pocket and on the transfer,” offensive ability positions scout Dame Parson stated. “Klubnik delivers middle-of-the-field passes with good velocity and zip.

“Within the brief and intermediate parts of the sector, Klubnik can drive passes into tight home windows. His skill to make throws when flushed out of the pocket has been nice. Klubnik makes use of his athleticism to show nothing into one thing and assist pull the offense out of a gap.”

There have been some sparks of life from the Jets this week.

A 99-yard opening drive once more gave glimpses of what the Aaron Rodgers period was imagined to appear to be in New York, but it surely shortly went downhill and the sport ended up as so many have for the Jets.

One other tick within the loss column and one week nearer to an offseason that figures to reshape the roster and training employees.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Nothing

Realistically, there’s nothing left to do. This teaching employees has been a lame-duck group since interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich did not instantly flip the group round. The entrance workplace may even be fully overhauled round a brand new normal supervisor.

There are youthful gamers who may get extra run, however this teaching employees has no purpose to make that transfer with little probability it will likely be again in 2025.

2025 Free Company: Edge Patrick Jones II, Minnesota Vikings

The Jets used to have a deep rotation of pass-rushers who may dial up the warmth, however trades, growing older and free company have slowly chipped away at that depth.

Haason Reddick remains to be set to grow to be a free agent on the finish of the season. Given the worth tag related to him, the Jets may look to go slightly cheaper and add extra our bodies to the room.

Patrick Jones II could be a great goal if that is the case. He has proved his value as a rotational pass-rusher with seven sacks for the Vikings this season. He’ll probably be in search of a pay bump on the open market, however he hasn’t accomplished sufficient to warrant an enormous payday.

2025 NFL Draft: DL LT Overton, Alabama

Quinnen Williams is a terror to opposing offensive strains, however the remainder of the Jets inside group is uninspiring.

Drafting some inside expertise that may be developed alongside him could be superb. The Jets have too many wants to make use of a premium choose on the problem, although. As an alternative, they might wait and take a participant with a little bit of an ambiguous projection in LT Overton.

The Alabama product is a jumbo edge-defender who is likely to be greatest served to placed on a bit extra weight and shift inside on the subsequent degree. He is constructed equally to former Jet Jonathan Franklin-Myers and may very well be utilized in the identical method.

A primary-quarter damage to Jalen Hurts could find yourself costing the Philadelphia Eagles the one-seed within the playoffs.

Philadelphia jumped out to a 14-0 lead and was up two possessions heading into the fourth quarter, however 22 factors from Washington within the last body sunk the Kenny Pickett-led Eagles.

That pushes the group’s report all the way down to 12-3, making the 13-2 Lions and 13-2 Vikings the favorites to earn the NFC’s postseason bye.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Signal OL La’el Collins

The Eagles’ offensive-line depth was a query mark earlier than Landon Dickerson bought injured in Week 15. Now that he is hobbled, it would not be a nasty thought so as to add a veteran lineman to the follow squad forward of the playoffs simply in case.

Collins may very well be choice since he has expertise enjoying guard and deal with. Additionally, he performed for Kellen Moore in Dallas from 2019 to 2021.

2025 Free Company: WR Keenan Allen, Chicago Bears

Philadelphia has been trying to find a 3rd extensive receiver to pair with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith for a few years now and hasn’t had any luck discovering one.

So, the entrance workplace may discover the free-agent marketplace for a veteran receiver who’s trying to make one last push to get a Lombardi Trophy slightly than cashing in and stockpiling targets.

Allen may match that description, having solely made the playoffs 3 times and by no means profitable a playoff sport throughout his 12 seasons. Whereas the 32-year-old is having a down yr in a nasty Bears offense, he nonetheless has six touchdowns on the marketing campaign and is a yr faraway from a 1,200-yard efficiency.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Marcus Mbow, Purdue

Lane Johnson will probably be 35 in Might and is simply signed by way of 2026. Eagles GM Howie Roseman usually likes to remain a yr or two forward of his group’s wants within the draft, and the Purdue product is a little bit of a mission that might develop right into a beginning proper deal with, making this a robust pairing.

“Mbow is a quick-twitch run blocker with pop in his fingers that he makes use of to get into suits shortly, shut floor and intersect smaller targets on the transfer and collapse leaning defenders with a entice approach,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn stated.

“He wins primarily in outdoors zone ideas on frontside kick-out blocks creating sufficient lateral displacement to open a lane and slicing off the bottom three approach with a slingshot approach.

“…Total, Mbow brings good quickness and a artful, refined skill-set that can permit him to compete for a backup function immediately at deal with or guard with starter potential throughout his rookie contract. However he might want to bolster his play power and skill to take care of energy earlier than changing into a full-time starter.”

The Pittsburgh Steelers nonetheless management their future within the AFC North going into Week 17, but it surely definitely does not really feel that method after their Week 16 loss to the Ravens. Two turnovers turned out to be too many to beat a dialed-in Ravens protection.

Pittsburgh’s floor sport was nonexistent, and a fourth-quarter interception shut down any thought of a late-game comeback for the Steelers. Pittsburgh can nonetheless win the AFC North if it wins out, however meaning ending with victories over the Chiefs and Bengals after back-to-back losses to the Eagles and Ravens.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Get Wholesome

There aren’t many choices for the Steelers to get higher aside from to get more healthy. Beating the Ravens is not simple, and it was much more troublesome based mostly on the damage report. Cornerback Donte Jackson and security DeShon Elliott had been each out for the sport, and Joey Porter Jr. left early with a calf damage. Add in George Pickens sitting out one other sport, and the Steelers had been in a tricky spot.

Issues do not get any simpler. The Steelers play the Chiefs on Christmas Day, giving them an extremely brief week to get wholesome and ready for the largest sport of the season up to now.

2025 Free Company: S Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts

Minkah Fitzpatrick is clearly one of many Steelers’ greatest stars on protection, however he is at his greatest when Pittsburgh can unleash his potential all around the subject. That requires security to play with him who can cowl the deep third and make performs in protection. With that in thoughts, the Steelers could be smart to make a run at Julian Blackmon in free company.

The 26-year-old is at his greatest as a deep security as he ranks 18th in coverage grade by PFF. The Colts solely signed him to a one-year deal final offseason, so it is doable that Pittsburgh may have a bonus by merely providing a multiyear contract.

2025 NFL Draft: S Sebastian Castro, Iowa

The Steelers had questions within the slot all season. Beanie Bishop Jr. ended up profitable the beginning job as an undrafted free agent. There have been occasions this season when he has seemed like a UDFA. He ought to nonetheless be saved on the roster to compete for that spot subsequent season, however the Steelers have to herald some competitors. Sebastian Castro could be participant to herald to compete.

Castro will battle in man-to-man eventualities, however he may suffice as a zone defender within the flats or beneath. Here is Cory Giddings on what Castro brings:

“Sebastian Castro initiatives as a mid-round choose with the potential to be a high-level backup or rotational security within the NFL. His strengths in run protection, versatility, and soccer IQ make him a priceless piece in defensive schemes that prioritize physicality and field play.”

(Previous Week’s Selections: Be sure George Pickens is wholesome for the playoffs, CB Avonte Maddox, WR Luther Burden III)

Because of the sooner slate of video games, the San Francisco 49ers entered Sunday’s sport formally eradicated from the postseason.

It has been a season filled with accidents and disappointment in San Francisco, so it is becoming that the group ran out of fuel within the 29-17 loss in Miami. It additionally ensures the 49ers may have a dropping report for the primary time since 2020.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Give Israel Abanikanda touches

The 49ers have had horrible damage luck of their backfield this season as Isaac Guerendo was the newest operating again to go down, lacking Sunday’s sport with a hamstring damage.

With the group sitting out the playoffs this yr, the teaching employees ought to use these subsequent two weeks to see which backs on the roster can add depth to the place group transferring ahead.

Abanikanda has nice pace to probably be slot in Kyle Shanahan’s offense and was productive in two preseasons with the Jets. The latter could not imply a lot, however the 49ers don’t have anything to lose at this level and may as nicely see if the waiver declare is usually a diamond within the tough.

2025 Free Company: WR Rondale Moore, Atlanta Falcons

Deebo Samuel may very well be on the chopping block this offseason given his decline in play and the truth that San Francisco would save $5.2 million of cap house by making him a post-June 1 lower or commerce, per Over The Cap.

With a possible contract extension for Brock Purdy looming, that may very well be particularly engaging for the group.

Whereas Moore does not have the identical observe report as Samuel, he has an analogous ability set and will flourish in Shanahan’s system. Along with contributing as a receiver, the Purdue product was an efficient rusher in school. Nonetheless, he does have a protracted damage historical past the membership must be cautious of.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

Trent Williams turns 37 in July and is simply beneath contract for 2 extra years. So, it is likely to be time for 49ers GM John Lynch to start out occupied with a succession plan for the All-Professional left deal with.

Banks may find yourself getting drafted greater due to positional worth, however he ranks twenty first general on B/R’s massive board and may very well be potential alternative for Williams if obtainable.

“Banks excels moving into his suits sq. and on time on double-teams and combo blocks utilizing the gallop approach to ship pop on contact to jumpstart motion,” the Longhorn’s scouting report says.

“This units him up nicely to launch, climb and intersect backers the place he can set up a fast, agency latch to realize management on the level of assault. Banks can be a fluid mover main across the edge and on screens with the burst to line up, uncork and jolt smaller targets.

“…Total, Banks is a talented move protector with good athletic skill who works successfully on mixture blocks and may line up targets on the transfer however will fall off of blocks on longer growing performs and battle to complete as a result of streaky maintain expertise persistently.”

The Seattle Seahawks proceed to struggle and exceed expectations this season, battling Minnesota and dropping on a fourth-quarter landing with lower than 4 minutes to play.

The excellent news is Seattle nonetheless has an opportunity to win the division by beating the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams over the following two weeks, but it surely wants L.A. to lose subsequent weekend to have one thing to play for heading into the ultimate sport.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Add a veteran IOL

The Seahawks’ inside offensive line has been banged up for almost all of the season and whereas Olu Oluwatimi performed this weekend, he was on the damage report after exiting the Week 15 contest early.

Additionally, the place group is fairly younger with Laken Tomlinson serving as the one guard or middle with a couple of yr of expertise.

With a playoff push and potential postseason run upcoming, it could be sensible so as to add a veteran lineman to the follow squad a minimum of. That might present an insurance coverage coverage for a possible vulnerability throughout probably the most essential a part of the marketing campaign.

2025 Free Company: IOL Liam Eichenberg, Miami Dolphins

On a associated observe, Tomlinson is an impending free agent so the inside offensive line will probably be an offseason want in Seattle as nicely. The issue is the group is scheduled to start the spring with over $6 million within the damaging for cap house, per Over The Cap, so the entrance workplace might want to discount hunt.

Eichenberg does not have a terrific observe report, however he must be reasonably priced on the open market. Plus, it helps that he has place versatility having performed each spot on the offensive line throughout his profession, together with at each guard spots and middle during the last three years.

2025 NFL Draft: OL Wyatt Milum, West Virginia

There is a heavy emphasis on the trenches on this week’s group wants for the Seahawks, and Wyatt Milum is a reputation to keep watch over within the draft as he may line up at deal with or guard.

“Total, Milum is an skilled, expert run blocker with good play power and highly effective fingers to displace and maintain blocks,” the Mountaineer’s scouting report says. “He excels in move safety on bounce units with a stout anchor to finish reps shortly as soon as latched.

“His upright enjoying fashion, sawed-off construct, and mediocre lateral quickness result in getting caught flat-footed and overextended when being arrange by rushers capping his ceiling on true drop-back passes towards high-end edge-rushers.”

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers don’t love making life simple on themselves.

They entered Week 16 controlling their very own future to win the NFC South and all they needed to do was beat three sub-.500 groups. However they dropped the primary leg of that stretch by dropping in Dallas.

The Buccaneers can nonetheless retain their division crown with wins towards the Panthers and Saints, however they want the Falcons to fall to both the Commanders or Panthers over the following two weeks.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Give Jose Ramirez extra snaps

The Buccaneers may use some assistance on the sting reverse Yaya Diaby, and head coach Todd Bowles stated final week that the group will not be activating Markees Watts since there is not room on the 53-man roster, per Fox Sports’ Greg Auman.

So, it is likely to be value giving Ramirez a much bigger alternative over the following two video games to see if he can contribute as a third-down rusher within the playoffs.

2025 Free Company: C Ryan Kelly, Indianapolis Colts

Ben Bredeson is an impending free agent, which can depart Tampa Bay with a necessity for a beginning left guard. Whereas signing somebody who has expertise at that place could be probably the most easy answer, the entrance workplace may take a extra artistic method by transferring Graham Barton to protect and including a middle.

Barton’s place flexibility was a part of the rationale why he was a first-round choose. So, it would not be out of the query for him to slip over and make room for a four-time Professional Bowl middle like Kelly.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Matthew Golden, Texas

With Chris Godwin’s contract about to run out, Bucs GM Jason Licht is probably going doing his homework on this yr’s extensive receiver class within the draft.

The Texas product has the flexibility to line up out extensive or within the slot, which may make him match to switch Godwin.

“Golden makes performs from a number of extensive receiver positions, X, slot, & Z,” the Longhorn’s scouting report says. “He separates from protection nicely along with his innate skill to decelerate and speed up out and in of his breaks.

“He sells go-routes on the vertical airplane nicely to push the cornerback upfield creating house for him to interrupt downhill and again in the direction of the quarterback. He modulates speeds too. Golden is a crisp route runner who separators nicely on the high of his route.

“He’s a fast mover with sharp crops to pivot in the fitting path. Golden can out of the blue change instructions and lose his man protection defender. He works the within leverage nicely earlier than slicing between the hashes into the center of the sector.”

The Titans picked up an ethical victory on Sunday.

They had been down 38-7 midway by way of the third quarter, however they managed to return all the best way again to make it a one-score sport in a 38-30 loss.

Maybe that ethical victory is sufficient to present that the group remains to be preventing behind head coach Brian Callahan.

Nonetheless, the protection gave up 335 dashing yards to the Colts. Stuffing the run has been a vivid spot for the Titans this season and even that power was introduced into query.

It is a reminder that there are a number of questions for Tennessee going into the offseason with only a few weeks left of enjoying with the present roster.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: See if Chigoziem Okonkwo can repeat his efficiency

The Titans suffered a tricky loss, however Chigoziem Okonkwo was one of many winners of the day.

The tight finish has been silent for a lot of the season, however he got here alive within the Titans’ comeback bid. He hauled in a season-high 9 passes for 81 yards. Final week, he posted eight catches for 59 yards.

Okonkwo is a participant the Titans are going to should decide on on the finish of this season. He’ll be in a contract yr subsequent season and so they may justify in search of a good finish within the draft.

If Okonkwo continues to complete the season robust, he may have an inside observe on the TE job subsequent season.

2025 Free Company: QB Justin Fields, Pittsburgh Steelers

The ultimate stretch of the 2024 season has made it exhausting to consider Will Levis would be the quarterback subsequent season.

The following logical step could be for the Titans to draft one other signal-caller, however they may not be in vary to take action in a shallow quarterback class.

The Titans may put together for such a situation by signing Justin Fields. He did sufficient because the Steelers’ starter early within the season to justify a job as a bridge starter for a group subsequent season.

The Titans may signal the 25-year-old to take a extra wait-and-see method with drafting a quarterback within the spring.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Armand Membou, Missouri

The Titans both have solutions or a promising prospect at each spot on the offensive line aside from proper deal with.

Nicholas Petit-Frere’s struggles have been conspicuous, and Tennessee must have a brand new reply subsequent season.

Enter Armand Membou.

The 6’3″, 325-pounder is on the shorter aspect for a deal with, however he makes up for it with nice motion expertise and the power to remain in entrance of pass-rushers on the sting.

The correct deal with has surrendered no sacks and simply 9 hurries this season, per PFF. He would give the Titans a a lot greater ceiling on the place.

Jayden Daniels had loads of Heisman moments final yr at LSU to take residence some {hardware}, and his 5 landing passes to get an enormous win over the Eagles may need clinched the Offensive Rookie of the 12 months Award.

The ‘W’ additionally places Washington one step nearer to clinching a playoff berth, and a victory within the residence finale towards Atlanta will get the job accomplished.

Largest Weaknesses:

Transfer to Make Now: Kick the tires on WR Chris Moore

The Commanders’ receiving corps may have used some assist earlier than Noah Brown went on injured reserve. Now that he is out for the season, it would not be a nasty thought so as to add a veteran wideout to the follow squad forward of the playoffs.

Moore hasn’t had many snaps throughout his time with the Cardinals this season, however he’s a good contested catch menace and logged 22 catches for 424 yards with the Titans in 2023.

2025 Free Company: WR Stefon Diggs, Houston Texans

On a associated observe, Washington has 5 unrestricted free brokers at wideout this offseason, together with Brown, Dyami Brown and Olamide Zaccheaus.

So, the entrance workplace will probably be in search of a wideout to pair with Terry McLaurin to present Daniels one other high goal to throw to.

In keeping with Over The Cap, the group may have almost $100 million of cap house obtainable in free company, so it might go after an enormous fish.

Diggs will probably be coming off a torn ACL, however he was a 1,000-yard receiver from 2018 to 2023 and is likely to be fascinated by coming residence to the D.C./Maryland space whereas enjoying for an ascending group.

2025 NFL Draft: S Lathan Ransom, Ohio State

Jeremy Chinn is simply on a one-year deal, which may imply Washington GM Adam Peters is in search of a robust security within the draft.

Additionally, head coach Dan Quinn likes to have larger safeties play within the field, which might make Ransom scheme match.

“Ransom initiatives as a mid- to late-round choice with the potential to contribute instantly as a rotational security or a particular groups ace,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings stated. “His physicality, instincts, and excessive motor make him an asset in run-heavy defensive schemes or conditions the place he can play nearer to the road of scrimmage.

“Whereas his limitations in protection could forestall him from being an every-down security, Ransom’s aggressive play fashion and knack for making performs close to the road give him the instruments to carve out a significant function within the NFL. With correct utilization, Ransom has the potential to develop right into a dependable, situational starter.”