NFL Group Wants: Prioritizing Each Roster’s Greatest Weaknesses Earlier than Week 7

A semblance of steadiness was seemingly restored in Week 6 of the 2024 NFL season. Favored groups confirmed they have been favorites for a cause, as no underdog gained by the primary 13 matchups. We’re greater than a quarter-way by the marketing campaign now, and the commerce deadline is three weeks away. What these groups are and what they should enhance is turning into clear.

Each week of the season, we’ll assess the state of every roster with a selected give attention to its weaknesses. By the top of the marketing campaign, we’ll have constructed a giant board for each crew based mostly on its greatest wants and desires. The whole lot from fast holes to fill to the offseason participant carousel of free company and the 2025 NFL draft is taken into consideration.

The weaknesses right here should not simply knee-jerk reactions to the weekend’s video games however extra an overarching evaluation of current and future roster-building.

B/R’s NFL protection sees a number of of those gamers highlighted in additional element all through the week elsewhere as nicely:

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

It looks like this previous week was the early turning level of the Arizona Cardinals’ season.

The crew was coming off a giant upset in San Francisco and had an opportunity to even up its document to set the stage for a possible playoff run. As an alternative, Arizona fell to Inexperienced Bay and sits at 2-4, the place it is most likely finest to start out enthusiastic about the longer term for the remainder of the marketing campaign.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: G Mark Glowinski

Will Hernandez was positioned on season-ending injured reserve this week, which is a giant blow for the Cardinals offense, as they will be down a beginning guard. There aren’t many good choices to switch Hernandez at this stage, however Glowinski may be the crew’s finest guess since he has almost 100 profession begins and might play both guard spot.

2025 Free Company: WR Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Whereas large receiver will not be a high want in Arizona this spring, the membership is at the moment projected to have almost $120 million in cap area through the offseason, per Over The Cap. So, the entrance workplace can splurge for an elite expertise. Additionally, the crew has 4 wideouts who’re impending free brokers, which means they will want some depth there anyway.

Godwin can function out of the slot whereas Marvin Harrison Jr. and Micheal Wilson are on the surface. Plus, the eight-year veteran can be a great mentor to have for the No. 4 total choose.

2025 NFL Draft: CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

We’ll need to see if Monti Ossenfort finally ends up having a excessive sufficient choose to pick out the two-way star. However, if Ossenfort does have the capital, it will likely be onerous for him to show down Hunter, particularly contemplating the protection might use some further expertise at cornerback.

“In protection, Hunter showcases a uncommon mix of bodily instruments and psychological acuity,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings mentioned through the Buffalo’s scouting report. “His wonderful imaginative and prescient and consciousness permit him to take care of leverage whereas in protection, constantly positioning himself to make performs on the ball.

“Hunter’s twitchy athleticism and fast acceleration allow him to shut gaps shortly, whereas his lengthy velocity permits him to maintain tempo with any receiver he is matched towards.”

This wasn’t the prettiest win, because the Falcons protection let the Panthers hold round within the first half with the crew clinging to a 22-17 lead within the locker room. However Atlanta managed to lock it down and received the operating sport going.

Operating backs Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier led the best way, as the previous had 15 carries for 95 yards and two touchdowns whereas the latter had 18 rushes, 105 yards and a rating, whereas Carolina solely managed three factors within the second half.

That places Atlanta at 4-2 and retains it on the high of the NFC South standings after incomes the tiebreaker over Tampa Bay (4-2) two weeks in the past.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for EDGE Azeez Ojulari, New York Giants

Regardless of buying and selling for Matthew Judon in August, the Falcons’ go rush has struggled this season, as they ranked lifeless final with six sacks heading into this previous weekend. In the meantime, Ojulari was featured in B/R’s NFL Trade Block Big Board column this week and tabbed as a great match for the membership.

“The 2021 second-round choose had eight sacks as a rookie and one other 5.5 sacks in his second season. It isn’t outlandish to assume he might replicate that manufacturing with a special crew,” B/R’s Kristopher Knox wrote.

“…The Atlanta Falcons would even be sensible to check out Ojulari. Atlanta moved to 3-2 on Thursday however continues to battle with sack manufacturing.”

2025 Free Company: OL Liam Eichenberg, Miami Dolphins

With solely about $11.6 million of projected cap area this offseason, per Over The Cap, it is onerous to mission any big-name targets touchdown in Atlanta throughout free company at this stage. However the crew will doubtless want some inside offensive line assist since Drew Dalman’s contract is about to run out and Matthew Bergeron’s profession has gotten off to a gradual begin.

That makes Eichenberg a possible cost-effective goal for the group. He is been a stable participant to date in 2024 and has expertise taking part in each offensive line place to at the least be a stable backup possibility.

2025 NFL Draft: EDGE Abdul Carter, Penn State

As talked about above, the Falcons’ go rush has been sub-par to start the marketing campaign. Whereas a wholesome Bralen Trice might assist remedy that downside transferring ahead, the protection has a number of impending free brokers at edge defender this offseason in Matthew Judon, Lorenzo Carter and James Smith-Williams.

So, it would not be a foul thought to take a flier on the Penn State product. “Carter is an elite athlete, which provides him a excessive ceiling as a pass-rusher on the subsequent stage,” 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 instances up the snap. Additionally, he is proven a good dip-rip transfer and the potential to develop a stick transfer as an inside counter along with his motion abilities.”

The Washington Commanders have spent the primary six weeks of the season proving they’re a professional playoff crew within the NFC. The Ravens utilized their matchup with the upstart Commanders to remind everybody they’re to be taken critically as nicely. Lamar Jackson attacked the Commanders protection with ruthless effectivity, and Zay Flowers wrecked the secondary with 9 receptions for 132 yards.

It is simply one other instance that the Ravens offense can win in a number of methods. Derrick Henry continued rolling with 132 yards on the bottom, and Baltimore was in a position to reap the benefits of the additional effort and focus he attracts from opposing groups.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for CB Emmanuel Forbes, Washington Commanders

The Ravens are off to a great begin within the AFC, however they’re having to combat by some harm woes within the secondary. Marlon Humphrey is beat up, whereas Jalyn Armour-Davis and Trayvon Mullen are each on injured reserve. Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa are getting an opportunity to point out what they will do, however the Ravens might wish to make a transfer.

An attention-grabbing possiblity can be concentrating on Commanders cornerback Emmanuel Forbes. The 2023 first-round choose struggled as a rookie and is getting little or no run with Dan Quinn taking up because the crew’s head coach. Maybe a change of surroundings could possibly be finest for all events concerned.

2025 Free Company: WR Stefon Diggs, Houston Texans

The Houston Texans worn out the ultimate three years of Stefon Diggs’ contract once they traded for him this offseason. It made his run with the Texans a one-year trial interval, and it won’t go additional than that after they prolonged Nico Collins.

If the previous Maryland standout hits the open market, then he could possibly be a enjoyable slot in Baltimore. The crew has an rising star at tight finish in Isaiah Doubtless, and Zay Flowers is an electrical beneath receiver. Diggs might slot in because the vertical exterior receiver.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State

The Ravens have been a high offense with Lamar Jackson at quarterback due to Jackson’s capability mixed with sturdy offensive line play. There have been some rising pains early on this season, however the entrance 5 continues to enhance and jell.

Getting forward of the necessity to change Ronnie Stanley could possibly be key to persevering with that dominance. Stanley is about to change into a free agent this offseason, and he is 30 years outdated, so his subsequent contract is more likely to be on the shorter aspect.

Drafting Ohio State’s Josh Simmons would give them an off-ramp as Stanley continues to age. He has the construct to be a purposeful guard whereas he is ready for his flip to take over at left deal with.

The Payments reminded everybody that they’re nonetheless the category of the AFC East with a 23-20 win over the New York Jets on Monday Night time Soccer. Ray Davis ran for almost 100 yards with James Cook dinner out of the lineup and the Payments protection solely allowed three factors within the second half for an incredible crew win.

We’re solely six weeks into the season and the Payments already really feel like they’ve their division on lock. Beating the Jets on the street every week after they fired their head coach feels just like the form of win that tells the remainder of the division higher luck subsequent yr.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for WR Davante Adams, Las Vegas Raiders

The record of groups who ought to truly be in pursuit of Davante Adams might be smaller than most would assume. He is an getting older veteran receiver with some huge cash left on his contract and it is not going to be low cost to get Vegas to commerce him away. There is a cause the record is reportedly all the way down to 4 groups, in response to Tashan Reed of The Athletic.

Buffalo is considered one of them.It is sensible. The Payments are banged up at receiver and did not have a real No. 1 within the mildew of Adams since Stefon Diggs was traded away. The Payments nonetheless have a roster that may win proper now regardless of key accidents and offseason losses. Including Adams might push them excessive.

2025 Free Company: EDGE/LB Jamin Davis, Washington Commanders

The tough a part of persevering with to construct a contender round a quarterback on a serious contract is discovering worth. The Payments are going to need to make their free company {dollars} stretch to place collectively a championship crew. Concentrating on a youthful participant who might need some developmental potential might assist.Jamin Davis has not lived as much as the hype as a former first-round choose. The Commanders have begun experimenting with Davis taking part in on the sting and there could also be some untapped potential there. The Payments occur to want depth at linebacker and on the sting. Sean McDermott would possibly have the ability to get out of Davis than the Washington regimes have.

Lots of the Payments’ draft plans would possibly revolve round whether or not they give Spencer Brown a brand new contract. Brown is within the closing yr of his contract and he has change into extra reliable however he nonetheless hasn’t essentially damaged out past “common starter”. If the Payments are OK with that, then they may re-sign him and test proper deal with off their record of wants.

Nevertheless, in the event that they want a bit of extra on the place, they could flip to the draft. Aireontae Ersery is a strong, lengthy blocker at 6’6″, 330 kilos. If the Payments wish to reset the rookie contract clock on the place, taking Ersery would not be the worst factor on the earth.

Since successful their first sport of the season three weeks in the past, the Carolina Panthers have been outscored 108-54.

This previous Sunday’s defeat to the division-leading Atlanta Falcons form of highlighted simply how far off Carolina is competing within the NFC South, as Atlanta did not even have its “A-game” and nonetheless gained by three possessions. It is trying like it will likely be an extended few months for the Panthers because the crew continues to construct for the longer term.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: OT Tyre Phillips

Taylor Moton missed Sunday’s sport with a triceps harm and is taken into account week-to-week transferring ahead, per Anthony Rizzuti of Panthers Wire. Additionally, Ikem Ekwonu popped up on this previous week’s harm report, so the Panthers are coping with some accidents at offensive deal with.

The membership ought to use this as a chance to usher in a younger offensive lineman like Phillips and see what he can do. The 27-year-old has primarily lined up at proper deal with however has expertise on the left aspect in addition to at guard, and who is aware of, possibly he might be a part of the crew’s long-term plans.

2025 Free Company: TE Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints

Carolina’s present tight finish group is underwhelming and Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble are impending free brokers. So, the entrance workplace will doubtless be trying to handle the place within the offseason and so they might steal a top quality participant from a division rival.

Johnson might not put up a ton of yards with only one,144 profession yards in 5 seasons heading into this previous Sunday, however he does what one would count on from a decent finish; transfer the chains and put factors on the board. He is logged 16 touchdowns and 66 first downs on 105 profession catches, per Pro Football Reference.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

Whether or not it is Bryce Younger once more or another person, whoever the Panthers’ quarterback is transferring ahead will want one other large receiver to throw the ball to. Diontae Johnson is on a contract yr and Adam Thielen is getting up there in age, so utilizing a high choose on the wideout from Arizona should not be off the desk.

“McMillan is a implausible receiving risk who brings a ton to the desk,” B/R’s offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson mentioned through the Wildcat’s scouting report.

“NFL offensive coordinators will recognize his versatility and the litany of how he can win of their offensive construction. He initiatives as a primary large receiver who you pepper with a excessive quantity of targets per sport.”

Have the Chicago Bears discovered their stride?

Sunday’s win in London over Jacksonville makes it three in a row for Chicago, because the crew improved to 4-2 on the season. Extra importantly, that is back-to-back 35-point outings for Caleb Williams and the offense, with over 600 whole yards from scrimmage and 6 touchdowns over the past two video games.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Nobody

As talked about final week, offensive continuity is among the Bears’ greatest points within the early levels of the season, and including one other participant will not remedy that downside. Plus, it seemed just like the offense might need turned the web page in Week 5 towards the Panthers. So, there isn’t any must rock the boat, and it is most likely finest to maintain issues establishment for now.

2025 Free Company: C Connor Williams, Seattle Seahawks

Middle is a present weak spot in Chicago, and Coleman Shelton together with backup Doug Kramer are impending free brokers. So, the place will doubtless be addressed within the offseason, and Williams can be an attention-grabbing choice to discover.

The 27-year-old does have a foul harm historical past, together with ending final season with a torn ACL, which is a giant cause why he did not register Seattle till August. However Williams has been a great participant when on the sphere over the past a number of years.

He is been a stable run-blocker for the Seahawks this season with a 71.7 grade from Pro Football Focus in that division heading into this previous weekend.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

Regardless of having a breakout efficiency on Sunday, Keenan Allen is an impending free agent and the Bears hadn’t gotten a lot from him unit this previous week’s efficiency. So, Ryan Poles would possibly discover this yr’s large receiver class within the draft, and the Buckeye can be a stable alternative for the veteran.

“Egbuka is a main slot receiver with the flexibility to kick exterior to Z,” B/R’s offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson mentioned. “Route operating and getting open is his A-trait. Egbuka thrives as a series mover within the fast passing sport and can add a possible safety blanket to an NFL offense.”

It is a bit of regarding that we’ve not seen the Bengals offense and protection play a great sport on the identical day but. This time, it was the defenses’ flip to hold the day with a 17-7 win over the New York Giants on Sunday Night time Soccer. It may be irritating that the Giants principally shut the offense down, nevertheless it was good for the Bengals to point out they will win an unpleasant one with their protection.

There’s numerous work to be executed at 2-4, however they’ve the expertise to go on a run.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for CB Jonathan Jones, New England Patriots

The Bengals’ solely hope to show issues round and contend for the playoffs this season is to discover a repair on protection. There are some issues they will do schematically, however there would possibly simply need to be higher personnel. Tre’Davious White has had a tough go of it with the Rams, however so has Cam Taylor-Britt. The 25-year-old is giving up a 126.1 passer rating when focused.

If the Patriots are prepared to half with Jonathan Jones, the Bengals needs to be among the many groups to name. The 29-year-old veteran is on an expiring contract for a crew that’s clearly rebuilding and desires assist for Drake Maye.

2025 Free Company: EDGE Chase Younger, New Orleans Saints

The Bengals protection is in dire want of latest blood. The once-feared group led by Lou Anurumo is able the place they simply haven’t got many gamers that transfer the needle. Trey Hendrickson had three sacks coming into this week’s sport, and there simply is not a lot depth behind him.

Chase Younger could possibly be one of the gifted edge-rushers within the free-agent class. Bringing the previous Buckeye again to Ohio could possibly be a enjoyable story that may additionally assist the Bengals with an vital want that have to be addressed.

2025 NFL Draft: DT Mason Graham, Michigan

B/R’s Brent Sobleski made the case for Michigan defensive deal with Mason Graham to go together with the No. 1 total choose in subsequent spring’s draft. In a category with a questionable crop of quarterbacks and no clear-cut reply, Graham might vault to the highest of the draft board.

If he would not, the Bengals ought to take a great, lengthy look. They’ve blue-chip gamers on the offensive aspect of the ball however do not essentially have star energy on protection. Graham’s well-rounded sport and elite athleticism might make him a disruptive inside defender who might change the Bengals’ struggling protection.

It was a well-recognized story for the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. The 20-16 loss featured an offense that meandered by the primary half of the sport earlier than Deshaun Watson put collectively a good second half. Cleveland was additionally held again by key penalties, together with seven on the offense for 55 yards.

It is getting more durable and more durable to not really feel like massive adjustments may be wanted for the Browns to proper the ship.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: EDGE Myjai Sanders

The Browns protection has taken a step again this season, and a scarcity of depth on the perimeters is among the elements that has made them a much less efficient unit. Myles Garrett has been a dominant drive, however Za’Darius Smith has been quiet and accidents have eaten on the depth behind him.

Cleveland is not doing nicely sufficient to justify buying and selling for an additional participant, and the free-agent market is comparatively naked. Myjai Sanders is among the few intriguing pass-rushers out there. The previous third-round choose has largely dissatisfied, however he is nonetheless 26 years outdated and will do higher in a task the place he is not requested to do something aside from get after the quarterback.

2025 Free Company: LB Nick Bolton, Kansas Metropolis Chiefs

Jim Schwartz’s protection thrives when he has elite expertise within the entrance seven. The defensive coordinator is not a heavy blitzer and the Browns have been dominant final season once they had good linebacker play led by Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. They’ve already labored to increase his contract, however they could possibly be in search of reinforcements to the second stage of the protection.

Bolton has earned a great fame as an enforcer in the midst of the Chiefs protection. They’ve numerous gamers to pay so it is attainable that he turns into out there this offseason.

2025 NFL Draft: QB Cam Ward, Miami

There are only a few good methods ahead for the Browns with regards to Deshaun Watson’s contract. The quarterback hasn’t been good, and it is turning into clear that he’s not going to show issues round in Cleveland. Nevertheless, his contract makes it almost unattainable to maneuver on from him.

One factor the Browns might do is to make Watson the most costly backup quarterback in NFL historical past or launch him with a post-June 1 designation subsequent season. Both approach, the Browns would wish a beginning quarterback on a rookie contract. Taking one of many high signal-callers within the draft would permit them to make that form of determination and there is a lot to love about Cam Ward.

“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,” Dame Parson famous in his scouting report of Ward.

We’re six video games into the season, and it is onerous to onerous to gauge what to make of the Dallas Cowboys.

Dallas got here into the weekend on a two-game win streak and with an opportunity to achieve some floor within the division standings. Nevertheless, an old style whooping by the hands of the Lions pushes the Cowboys to an excellent .500 document and retains them in third place within the NFC East.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: OT Charles Leno Jr.

A defensive finish was thought of right here given the information that backup-turned-starter Marshawn Kneeland tore his meniscus towards the Steelers, furthering the Cowboys’ points on the place. Nevertheless, Micah Parsons needs to be returning quickly, and the crew has Carl Lawson on the follow squad simply in case.

In the meantime, Tyler Guyton additionally suffered an harm in Week 5, and Guyton has struggled to start his profession, getting benched this previous weekend. So, the entrance workplace ought to discover including a veteran like Leno who has a robust monitor document in go safety all through his profession.

2025 Free Company: S Jordan Fuller, Carolina Panthers

Security is a present weak spot in Dallas, and the membership has a couple of impending free brokers on the place this offseason, which means the entrance workplace will at the least be trying so as to add some depth to the place within the spring.

Fuller can be a great possibility, as he is been a stable all-around participant all through his profession. For instance, he had 94 whole tackles, three interceptions, eight passes defended and three compelled fumbles for the Rams in 2023. Plus, it is a bonus that he would not even flip 27 till March.

2025 NFL Draft: IOL Donovan Jackson, Ohio State

With Zack Martin about to be a 34-year-old free agent, Jerry Jones would possibly wish to discover this yr’s draft class at guard. Even when Martin is re-signed, it could not harm so as to add some youth to the place, and the Buckeye can be a stable alternative possibility.

“Jackson missed the primary couple video games of the yr with a hamstring harm, however has since returned largely to his 2023 kind with some notable enhancements (albeit towards subpar competitors to date),” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn mentioned.

“The first bounce on movie has been in his go units and talent to get into his anchor extra effectively which has bolstered his play energy as a go protector, reducing down on the short losses within the course of.”

“As Ohio State will get deeper into convention play and the competitors stage ramps up it will likely be carefully monitored whether or not or not Jackson can proceed to maintain blocks on the identical stage.”

The story of the Denver Broncos’ 2024 season is beginning to come into focus. The Broncos have sufficient expertise and a ok protection to win some video games. However there are additionally going to be weeks like Week 6 the place they simply do not do sufficient to present the offense the margin for error it wants.

The offense was ugly and out of types for 3 quarters earlier than exploding for 16 factors within the fourth. Quarterback Bo Nix offered a spark on the bottom with 61 yards on six carries. The rollercoaster efficiency appears to be a harbinger of what this season has to supply for Denver—numerous ups and downs.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: LB Devin White

Denver’s protection has allowed the Broncos to stay aggressive even with an offense that has struggled at instances with rookie Bo Nix beneath middle. Sustaining that stage of protection has change into harder with accidents on the linebacker place. Drew Sanders went on the PUP record earlier than the season began, and Alex Singleton was added to the injured reserve record.

The Eagles not too long ago launched Devin White. He did not make their energetic roster in any of their video games this season, however he is a former Professional Bowler whose athleticism has at the least given him an opportunity to make some splash performs.

2025 Free Company: DL Alim McNeill, Detroit Lions

The Broncos are going to need to refigure some issues on the line of defense subsequent season. Baron Browning and Jonathan Cooper are each set to be free brokers together with D.J. Jones on the inside. In the event that they lose both Browning or Cooper, it would drive John Franklin-Myers to play extra on the surface and Jones goes to be 30 years outdated subsequent season.

Signing Alim McNeill away from the Detroit Lions would permit them to proceed taking part in protection at a excessive stage whereas getting youthful on the place. McNeill has change into an integral a part of the Lions’ defensive entrance and will command a big contract if he hits the market.

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

Because the Broncos look so as to add weapons round Nix, it may be time to deal with the tight finish place this offseason. Former third-round choose Greg Dulcich hasn’t labored out. Sadly, accidents have stored him off the sphere, and he hasn’t executed a lot when on the sphere. Harold Fannin Jr. is coming alongside as one of the promising tight finish prospects within the class.

Here is Dame Parson with an attention-grabbing pro-player comparability for Fannin:

“Harold Fannin Jr. is an athletic pass-catcher who can align in a number of spots within the offensive formation. His sport resembles present Baltimore Ravens TE Isaiah Doubtless. Fannin is powerful and bodily after the catch. He presents a TE able to the offensive passing sport funneled by on the subsequent stage.”

The Detroit Lions asserted their dominance over the Cowboys this weekend with a 47-9 victory. That pushes the Lions to 4-1 and retains them in second place behind the Vikings—who have been on a bye this week—for the division lead.

Nevertheless, the first concern for the Lions transferring ahead is the well being of Aidan Hutchinson, who left Sunday’s contest with a fractured tibia.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for EDGE Haason Reddick, New York Jets

This has been introduced up earlier than, because the Lions might have used a second edge-rusher earlier than Hutchinson’s harm. Now that the crew can be with out its finest defensive finish for the remainder of the season, it makes much more sense to strike a deal for Reddick, who was ranked because the No. 1 participant on B/R’s NFL Trade Block Big Board.

The previous Eagle and present Jet is in search of a brand new contract, however Detroit has almost $30 million of cap area to present him a brand new deal, in response to Over The Cap.

2025 Free Company: DT Jarran Reed, Seattle Seahawks

Alim McNeill and Levi Onwuzurike are impending free brokers, and if for some cause neither is retained by Brad Holmes, Holmes should discover a new defensive deal with.

Reed can be 32 years outdated in December so he will not have an extended tenure with the Lions, however he could be a stable contributor for a yr or two to assist make a Tremendous Bowl run. Heading into this weekend, the veteran had two sacks and 13 pressures on 124 pass-rush snaps, per Pro Football Focus.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Nic Anderson, Oklahoma

As talked about final week, the Lions have gotten good contributions from Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams this season however might use a 3rd wideout transferring ahead. Plus, barring the group choosing up Williams’ fifth-year possibility, his contract solely runs by the 2025 marketing campaign.

So, spending a mid-round choose on somebody just like the Oklahoma product needs to be on the desk. “Anderson is a giant, athletic, and fluid-moving large receiver,” B/R’s offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson mentioned. “He runs and snaps off his routes nicely to create preliminary separation.

“Anderson constantly has the velocity to threaten defenses deep down the sphere. He’s battling a leg harm that has stored him out of the Oklahoma offense all season. When wholesome, Anderson is the very best receiver on the Sooners’ offense, with the construct and athleticism mixture to be a productive X-receiver within the NFL.”

It looks like the Inexperienced Bay Packers, particularly Jordan Love, have discovered their grove over the previous few weeks.

Inexperienced Bay’s 34-13 win over Arizona makes it two in a row for the membership, whereas Love seemed sharp and threw for 4 landing passes. Extensive receiver Romeo Doubs was on the receiving finish of two of these scores to show in his finest sport of the season.

That places the Packers at 4-2 to maintain tempo within the NFC North, probably the most aggressive division within the league to date.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: CB Patrick Peterson

Eric Stokes has been struggling this season. Pro Football Focus had Stokes on the hook for 20 completions on 28 targets (71.4 completion share) and a 118.9 passer ranking when focused for a 50.5 protection grade by Week 5.

Whereas Peterson is previous his prime, he performed nicely for the Steelers final season by recording a few interceptions and 11 passes defended. The 34-year-old said initially of the season on NFL Network’s ‘The Insiders’ that he’d be prepared to play for a contender, which the Packers are.

2025 Free Company: C Ryan Kelly, Indianapolis Colts

Josh Myers has continued to be below-average this season and his contract is about to run out. In different phrases, it is unlikely that Myers can be again because the beginning middle in Inexperienced Bay subsequent fall.

In the meantime, Kelly is about to hit the open market and remains to be taking part in at a excessive stage. An harm precipitated him to overlook Weeks 4 and 5, however the nine-year veteran had given up simply three pressures and earned a decent 68.2 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus within the Colts’ first three video games of the marketing campaign.

2025 NFL Draft: DL Deone Walker, Kentucky

The Packers’ defensive tackles as a complete have not been taking part in nicely this season, and Brian Gutekunst would possibly wish to contemplate addressing the place within the draft. The Kentucky product does battle with consistency and conditioning, however he is flashed some bodily dominant reps when he has a full tank of gasoline.

“Along with his mixture of upper-body energy and dimension, Walker can win on the level of assault to be onerous to maneuver as a run defender towards one-on-one blocks and might collapse the pocket when bull dashing,” the Wildcat’s scouting report says.

“He is additionally flashed a powerful swim transfer and proven the flexibility to make use of his quickness to win as a pass-rusher and defeat blocks towards the run.”

DeMeco Ryans told reporters earlier than the sport that it could take “everyone” to make up for the lack of Nico Collins. The Texans’ main receiver was placed on injured reserve final week. It seemed like “everyone” confirmed as much as do the job towards the Patriots.

The Texans put up 41 factors in a sport Houston ran for six.9 yards per carry and Stefon Diggs got here by with six catches for 77 yards and a landing.

Granted this got here towards the Patriots and the protection compelled 4 turnovers, however there’s quite a bit to like about how this Texans crew is taking part in.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: CB Marcus Peters

The Texans are being compelled to climate a number of accidents within the secondary. Kamari Lassiter is predicted to overlook a number of weeks, and Jimmie Ward was out of the lineup this week. That is on high of Jeff Okudah already staying on the injured reserve record.

There aren’t a ton of nice choices on the free-agent market, and there are solely so many gamers who may be out there for commerce. A easy resolution may be giving Marcus Peters a name to see if the veteran nonetheless has any juice left. He made 12 begins for the Raiders final season.

2025 Free Company: S Talanoa Hufanga, San Francisco 49ers

Jimmie Ward is 33 years outdated and carries a cap hit that does not assure he’ll be on the roster subsequent season. The Texans appear to have discovered a beginning security in Calen Bullock, and Jalen Pitre can play within the slot. Bringing in yet one more security would guarantee they do not have to determine anybody else’s function subsequent season.

Talanoa Hufanga is coping with a wrist harm that has him out of the lineup for the following month, however he is already confirmed he is one of many higher younger safeties within the sport. He could possibly be the lacking piece for an rising secondary.

Kenyon Inexperienced is operating out of alternatives to point out that he might be the long-term starter at left guard. Shaq Mason is 31 years outdated and never trying nearly as good as he as soon as was. It is protected to say that the Texans needs to be trying to construct their inside line choices subsequent offseason.

Tyler Booker needs to be on their radar in that regard. The 6’5″, 352-pounder is a tone-setter up entrance. His play energy and physicality would give them an opportunity to reset a kind of guard positions and permit them to be extra numerous within the run sport.

The Colts proceed to play one-score video games each week. This time, it was a 20-17 victory with out Anthony Richardson that can preserve the Colts within the tier of AFC groups who needs to be battling for a wild-card spot down the stretch. Richardson was a late scratch for the week with an indirect harm. Luckily, Joe Flacco was in a position to execute the sport plan nicely sufficient to guide the Colts to a win.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: IOL Nate Davis, Chicago Bears

The Colts have been dealt a serious blow once they misplaced Will Fries for the foreseeable future with a damaged leg. The younger guard was considered one of their finest offensive linemen, and so they both need to reshuffle the road or change him with undrafted free agent Dalton Tucker.

Elsewhere, Nate Davis was simply benched in Chicago. The Bears may be prepared to half with the veteran after he did not stay as much as his contract. It isn’t probably the most supreme situation for the Colts, however Davis is at the least an skilled veteran with a good baseline of manufacturing.

2025 Free Company: QB Mac Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars

It has change into clear that the backup quarterback place goes to be important for the Colts so long as they proceed the Anthony Richardson experiment. Richardson has tantilizing upside, however he has not been in a position to keep on the sphere constantly. Joe Flacco has been a wonderful backup for the crew this season, however they might wish to look to a youthful resolution subsequent offseason.

Mac Jones’ time in New England established a fame as a draft bust, however he seemed way more assured in preseason motion with the Jaguars this offseason. Which may lead the Colts to kick the tires on the 26-year-old as somebody who might function an RPO-heavy offense if Richardson’s harm woes proceed.

2025 NFL Draft: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State

Tyler Warren’s identify grew to become much more well-known after Saturday’s school soccer motion. The 6’6″, 261-pound tight finish torched the USC Trojans protection for 17 receptions and 224 yards within the Nittany Lions’ 33-30 win. He showcased the form of receiving risk he might be as a troublesome yards-after-the-catch participant.

The Colts have taken loads of swings on athletic initiatives at tight finish. Warren is a special participant than earlier targets on the place however he might stick.

Robert Saleh went to London final week and did not come again with a job. Doug Pederson may be checking his cellphone nervously after Jacksonville suffered a depressing loss in England on Sunday, serving as a punching bag for the Bears in a 35-16 loss.

The offense was disjointed and dropped a number of potential touchdowns. The protection offered an incredible alternative for rookie Caleb Williams to construct his confidence as he threw 4 landing passes. It was what you’d come to count on from a crew that’s now 1-5.

The Jaguars will keep in the UK for his or her sport towards the New England Patriots subsequent week, however will Pederson return to the States as their coach?

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for S Budda Baker, Arizona Cardinals

It is onerous to justify buying and selling for a participant with as a lot notoriety as Budda Baker with a 1-5 document, however the actuality is that Pederson might be teaching for his job and basic supervisor Trent Baalke’s seat needs to be sizzling, too. The Jaguars secondary was a serious downside Sunday, with Williams carving them up for 4 touchdowns.

Baker is within the closing yr of his contract with the Cardinals and will nonetheless be a cornerstone for the Jags protection for a couple of seasons. He is 29, however safeties are likely to age nicely and Baker is taking part in at a excessive stage for the Playing cards.

2025 Free Company: DT Osa Odighizuwa, Dallas Cowboys

The Jaguars began a youth motion on the inside of the line of defense by drafting Maason Smith and Jordan Jefferson. Roy Robertson-Harris is because of be a free agent and DaVon Hamilton hasn’t performed all that nicely. They need to be trying so as to add extra new blood to the place group this offseason.

Osa Odighizuwa can be an neglected free agent. He would not have gaudy sack stats, however he is a good penetrating 3-technique who has been in a position to carve out a big function within the Cowboys protection.

2025 NFL Draft: CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

The extra Jacksonville retains shedding, the extra they will begin realistically believing they are going to be within the operating for the highest skills on this draft. There actually aren’t numerous quarterbacks that groups can be serious about buying and selling up for at this level, so the worth of a top-three choose can be taking probably the greatest total gamers.

There is a good case to be made that Hunter is the very best participant within the class. He was ranked because the No. 1 total prospect on Bleacher Report’s initial big board. He might both be the elite cornerback that makes Tyson Campbell probably the greatest No. 2 corners within the sport or the alpha receiver that makes Brian Thomas Jr. and Gabe Davis even higher.

The bye week got here at a lucky time for the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs. A Monday Night time Soccer win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 5 introduced their document to 5-0, however they have been doing numerous scrambling to switch injured gamers. Kareem Hunt and JuJu Smith-Schuster have been each compelled to show again time and switch in sturdy performances.

The Chiefs have almost definitely misplaced Rashee Rice for the season, and Isiah Pacheco remains to be on injured reserve. Kansas Metropolis might use the extra week to both swing a transfer for a ability participant or regroup as an offense and determine the plan transferring ahead.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for WR DeAndre Hopkins, Tennessee Titans

The Chiefs reportedly wanted DeAndre Hopkins two years in the past when he was a free agent and finally signed with the Titans. Wanting again, each events might need regrets a deal did not occur. Hopkins hasn’t executed a lot successful in Tennesseee and the Chiefs are in dire want of receivers.

It is onerous to see many AFC groups wanting to assist the Chiefs of their bid for a 3rd consecutive championship, nevertheless it additionally would not make a lot sense for the Titans to hold on to the getting older Hopkins when he has an expiring contract and they’re rebuilding.

2025 Free Company: WR Diontae Johnson, Carolina Panthers

Sticking with the concept of addressing the crew’s want at receiver, the Chiefs might take one other stab on the downside by free company. Marquise “Hollywood” Brown was an incredible addition on paper. Sadly, we cannot see what that may have seemed like this yr.

After watching JuJu Smith-Schuster shortly appear to be a productive receiver after going again to Kansas Metropolis, it is truthful to marvel if Diontae Johnson might see the same enhance. The previous Steeler remains to be producing in Carolina, however dropping him within the Chiefs offense might take his manufacturing even additional.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Emery Jones Jr., LSU

The Chiefs have taken a deal with in every of the previous two drafts. Nevertheless, they’ve oscillated between Kingsley Suamataia and Wanya Morris at left deal with this season. There are some questions up entrance. Trey Smith is a pending free agent subsequent offseason, and Joe Thuney is not getting any youthful.

So whereas it may appear superfluous to draft a deal with for a 3rd consecutive season, it might make sense in the long run. The Chiefs might have three high-potential younger linemen to fill a couple of rising wants.

The Raiders might need modified quarterbacks, however the outcome was nonetheless the identical. The Raiders confirmed little combat in a 32-13 loss. Granted, there are main accidents at play. Malcolm Koonce and Christian Wilkins have been purported to be integral elements of probably the greatest defensive fronts within the league and are each out with long-term accidents. Davante Adams was nonetheless out with an harm.

Nevertheless, the Raiders protection nonetheless gave up 5.2 yards per carry to a Steelers crew that’s nonetheless figuring itself out offensively. There are issues to determine and the accidents do not assist, however Antonio Pierce has to discover a approach to rally the crew.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for RB Khalil Herbert, Chicago Bears

The Raiders’ run sport has been atrocious for a lot of the season. With Aidan O’Connell at quarterback and Adams’ future with the group within the air, a brand new give attention to operating the ball nicely may be helpful.

It is robust to try this with the manufacturing they have from Zamir White and Alexander Mattison this season. Buying and selling for Khalil Herbert, who has averaged 4.8 yards per carry in his profession, might inject some new power into the backfield.

2025 Free Company: QB Sam Darnold, Minnesota Vikings

The Raiders handed on drafting a quarterback this offseason after being the odd crew out throughout an early run on the place. This yr, the Raiders would possibly draft earlier, however this draft class would not function numerous coveted passers. That would lead Vegas to skip out on taking a first-round signal-caller once more.

In the event that they wish to go discover a starter in free company, then Sam Darnold might be the very best reply. Working with Kevin O’Connell has revived Darnold’s profession, and he is displaying that he is able to being a great NFL starter in the correct context with the correct teaching.

The Raiders have numerous points on offense proper now. They’ve numerous issues to determine, and that solely turns into extra true in the event that they commerce Adams. No matter who’s taking part in quarterback subsequent season, they may use a greater reply at proper deal with. Thayer Munford has had loads of alternatives to return alongside, and so they might nonetheless use an improve.

Williams is a mauling proper deal with who most likely must iron out some issues in go safety, however he has the general abilities to be an thrilling proper deal with prospect.

The bye week was superb to the Chargers. They got time to heal up, which was key for a crew that was with out Justin Herbert, Rashawn Slater, Joey Bosa and Joe Alt at completely different factors this yr. Bosa nonetheless is not again, however the remainder of these gamers contributed to a 23-16 win over the Broncos.

Herbert was an particularly massive winner on the week. He is been handcuffed early within the season by Greg Roman’s offensive system, however he was allowed to open it up towards the Broncos with 237 yards on 34 go makes an attempt.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for CB Greg Newsome II, Cleveland Browns

The Chargers have developed short- and long-term wants for a cornerback. Asante Samuel Jr. simply went on injured reserve and Kristian Fulton, who has had a profession resurgence in Los Angeles, is on a one-year cope with an harm historical past.

Buying and selling for Greg Newsome II can be a daring transfer forward of the deadline, nevertheless it solves each the short- and long-term wants. Newsome is simply 24 years outdated, and the Browns have already got cash tied up in Denzel Ward and Martin Emerson. That has led Newsome to be featured within the newest version of the trade block big board from Kris Knox.

2025 Free Company: EDGE Dayo Odeyingbo, Indianapolis Colts

Khalil Mack is 33 years outdated, and his contract expires after this season. He is nonetheless productive at this level, however the age cliff could possibly be coming and the Chargers needs to be looking out for youthful and cheaper options. Dayo Odeyingbo is an underrated edge-rusher who may be available on the market if the Colts do not prolong his contract.

At 25 years outdated, he is a younger free agent with first rate manufacturing at a premium place. These are the sorts of free brokers value concentrating on.

2025 NFL Draft: DL Walter Nolen, Ole Miss

You may see the shift within the Chargers philosophy beneath Jim Harbaugh, however basic supervisor Joe Hortiz nonetheless has work to do to construct the form of roster that the coach desires. Which means persevering with to construct the offensive and defensive traces. The Chargers patched their inside line of defense with free brokers on one-year offers like Poona Ford and Teair Tart.

Drafting Walter Nolen would give them a gifted inside defender with a excessive ceiling and the flexibility to be a starter for almost all of his rookie contract.

The Los Angeles Rams might have used the bye week a number of weeks in the past, because the crew has been decimated by accidents early within the season. However Los Angeles will undoubtedly be completely happy to take the day off now and heal up.

The excellent news is Cooper Kupp may be again for the crew’s subsequent sport, in response to Greg Scholz of The Athletic. Granted, that is not assured, nevertheless it does sound like Kupp will return to the lineup quickly.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: LB Deion Jones

Christian Rozeboom and Troy Reeder have been struggling this season, making linebacker a weak spot for the Rams. The protection additionally lacks expertise on the place behind these two, so the entrance workplace ought to look into including Jones as a veteran backup possibility in case Rozeboom and Reeder do not flip it round quickly.

The 29-year-old who turns 30 subsequent month is not the participant he was, however he can at the least be a good protection backer if the crew wants somebody to fill in.

2025 Free Company: WR Mike Williams, New York Jets

With Demarcus Robinson’s, Tutu Atwell’s and Tyler Johnson’s contracts all set to run out, Los Angeles will doubtless be available in the market for a large receiver this offseason. Additionally, the membership has discovered how vital depth is to date in 2024.

Williams has gotten off to a gradual begin with the Jets, hauling in simply 10 catches for 145 yards by 5 video games to date, however he might be productive when wholesome. Signing him to a short-team deal would give the offense a robust receiving corps to assist make one final Tremendous Bowl push with Matthew Stafford beneath middle.

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

Tyler Higbee remains to be recovering from the nasty knee harm he suffered in final season’s playoff sport, so he hasn’t suited up but this fall. Additionally, the 31-year-old is barely signed by 2025, so Les Snead would possibly wish to contemplate drafting a decent finish and the Bowling Inexperienced product is an efficient under-the-radar goal.

“Getting into the season, Fannin wasn’t a family identify,” B/R’s Damian Parson mentioned. “5 weeks into the season and coming off three consecutive 100-yard receiving video games, he is a high tight finish prospect.

“Fannin dominated Penn State’s and Texas A&M’s defenses for a mixed 336 yards receiving. His velocity within the open area, mixed with alignment versatility, is spectacular.

“Fannin wins in a number of ways in which translate to the NFL. He’s not solely a receiving risk but additionally a prepared and dependable run-blocker. A number of NFL organizations needs to be excited so as to add his playmaking capability to their passing assault for the 2025 season.”

(Earlier Week’s Alternatives: WR Darius Slayton, QB Zaach Wilson, CB Tacario Davis)

Few groups have wanted a bye week as badly because the Miami Dolphins did this week. The 2024 season has shortly change into a catastrophe. They’re solely 2-3, nevertheless it by some means feels worse than even the document would point out.

Miami ranks close to the underside in almost each offensive metric and might use the week off to get more healthy, recuperate and determine a plan for the offense. If they will do this, they could have the ability to eke out sufficient wins to be related if and when Tua Tagovailoa comes again this season.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: EDGE Shaq Lawson

Tua Tagoaviloa’s harm is not the one factor that has derailed the Dolphins’ season. They’re additionally coping with a rash of accidents on the sting that features Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb. Phillips was misplaced for the season to a torn ACL in Week 4 and Bradley Chubb remains to be on the PUP record.

The Dolphins actually should not be giving up draft capital to compete this season. The accidents have given them a tough street to hoe, however signing a veteran free agent who might assist them put themselves able to finish.

2025 Free Company: LB Jamien Sherwood, New York Jets

Anthony Walker Jr. and David Lengthy Jr. are each set to be free brokers this offseason. Lengthy ought to probably be introduced again as a result of he’s taking part in nicely, however the Dolphins might usher in a youthful third linebacker than Walker.

Jamien Sherwood is doing good issues with the Jets. The rising linebacker can be 25 years outdated when he hits the market subsequent season. If the Jets aren’t serious about giving him a market contract, then the Dolphins needs to be trying to signal him away from their division rival.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Will Campbell, LSU

The one silver lining within the disappointing begin to the Dolphins season is that it would wind up giving the Dolphins a top-10 choose. When wholesome, this roster is just not a bottom-10 group, however the actuality is that they may be too deep into the injured reserve to show issues round.

If that is the case, the Dolphins would wish to strongly contemplate drafting an offensive deal with who can bolster the offensive line. Defending Tagovailoa goes to be a precedence transferring ahead and Campbell is among the finest offensive linemen within the draft class.

If anybody says they’d the Minnesota Vikings being 5-0 heading into the bye week with Sam Darnold at quarterback, they’re mendacity. However right here we’re, as Minnesota has been arguably the very best crew within the NFL to date this season whereas Darnold is within the MVP dialog and Kevin O’Connell is the favourite to win Coach of the Yr.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Nobody

Whereas the Vikings aren’t flawless, that is an “if it ain’t broke, do not repair it” kind of state of affairs. Plus, inside assistance is on the best way quickly, as T.J. Hockenson and Dalton Risner are anticipated to return within the coming weeks.

2025 Free Company: G Trey Smith, Kansas Metropolis Chiefs

Guard is a bother spot on Minnesota’s roster proper now, as Risner is predicted to switch Ed Ingram when the previous comes off injured reserve. Nevertheless, Risner is a free agent within the offseason, which means the place can be one of many group’s greatest offseason wants.

Smith will arguably be the very best guard out there on the open market as he is been a superb participant throughout his four-year profession. By way of 5 video games in 2024, the 25-year-old earned an 84.5 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus and had solely surrendered 10 pressures with no sacks.

2025 NFL Draft: S Dante Dealer Jr., Maryland

With Harrison Smith’s and Camryn Bynum’s contracts up this offseason, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will doubtless be exploring this yr’s security class within the draft. So, count on the Maryland product to be on the overall supervisor’s radar.

“Dante Dealer Jr. is a flexible security from Maryland who brings athleticism and robust run assist to the sphere,” B/R’s defensive backs scout Cory Giddings mentioned within the Terp’s scouting report.

“Standing at 5’11”, 202 kilos, Dealer is thought for his fast ft, versatility and physicality, making him a beneficial asset in each the protection and run video games. His capability to learn performs and react shortly positions him as a high-level backup with the potential to grow to be an NFL starter.”

Two issues needs to be clear after the Patriots’ 41-21 loss to the Houston Texans. The primary is that Drake Maye has the instruments to change into a profitable quarterback within the league. The second is that the Patriots have been most likely proper to carry off on beginning Maye.

Maye had some nice moments within the begin. He had 243 yards and three touchdowns with a 40-yard landing go to Kayshon Boutte, and he tacked on one other 38 yards dashing. Nevertheless, he was additionally sacked 4 instances, threw two interceptions and misplaced a fumble. The offensive line is among the worst within the league thanks, partly, to accidents. Maye’s improvement goes to be essential, so the Patriots have to determine tips on how to defend him.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: IOL Ben Cleveland, Baltimore Ravens

The Patriots are onerous up for assistance on the offensive line proper now. The group was suspect to start with, and the accidents have piled up. Maximizing their safety with Drake Maye beginning at quarterback goes to be essential.

Ben Cleveland hasn’t been in a position to crack the lineup in Baltimore this season. However when he was on the sphere final season he has been a good go protector. He has an expiring contract, so the Ravens may be prepared to half with him at a comparatively low cost worth.

2025 Free Company: OT Cam Robinson, Jacksonville Jaguars

One of many extra baffling selections this offseason was how little the Patriots did to search out solutions at deal with. Signing Chukwuma Okorafor and utilizing a third-round choose on Caedan Wallace got here brief on paper and the outcomes have not exceeded expectations. Wallace is value continued funding. He might develop right into a starter, however Okorafor has had loads of alternatives to be a starter.

In equity to the Patriots, discovering a starter in free company is not straightforward. Nevertheless, Cam Robinson has confirmed to be a succesful deal with and he could possibly be out there if Jacksonville is included to maneuver on from him.

2025 NFL Draft: CB Domani Jackson, Alabama

The Patriots have quite a bit to determine on offense, however they used numerous draft capital on that aspect of the ball final season. They wanted to try this to present the unit some hope heading into the season. Now, they should use at the least a couple of of their earlier picks on protection to re-stock that aspect of the ball.

As an example, Jonathan Jones is 31 this season. Concentrating on a cornerback who might assist change him down the road can be a good suggestion. Cory Giddings sees some good issues from the 6’1″, 201-pounder.

The B/R scout famous that Jackson is a “technical participant who performs nicely from press protection, getting arms on early to disrupt timing. At instances may give up an excessive amount of separation out of transitions.”

Spencer Rattler’s NFL debut received off to a good begin, as he and the New Orleans Saints managed to attain 27 factors within the second quarter to carry a three-point halftime lead towards Tampa Bay. Nevertheless, New Orleans could not rating exterior of that lone body, and the protection was torched for almost 600 yards and over 50 factors.

That places the Saints at 2-4 and on a four-game shedding streak. The optimism surrounding the crew initially of the marketing campaign is totally gone.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: OL Matt Feiler

The Saints’ offensive line is overwhelmed up with Eric McCoy on injured reserve and Lucas Patrick and Cesar Ruiz popping up on this week’s harm report. So, it would not be a foul thought so as to add a veteran inside offensive lineman to the roster.

Feiler can be a great possibility since he has seven years of expertise and has lined up at each guard spots and at proper deal with throughout his profession.

2025 Free Company: S Andre Cisco, Jacksonville Jaguars

Security is a present weak spot for New Orleans, and that is solely going to worsen within the offseason since Will Harris is an impending free agent. The group will doubtless be available in the market for a defensive again this offseason, and Cisco is an intriguing possibility.

The 24-year-old, who turns 25 in March, was a ballhawk in 2022 and 2023 as he racked up seven interceptions and 15 passes defended in these two seasons mixed. Granted, he’s having a down yr to date this fall, however that would drive his price ticket down, which is sweet information for a membership that’s at the moment projected to start free company within the crimson for cap space.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Kelvin Banks, Texas

Whereas Mickey Loomis spent a first-round choose on Taliese Fuaga final April, Ryan Ramczyk’s future is unsure and Fuaga is a pure proper deal with. In different phrases, it isn’t out of the query for Loomis to deal with the trenches once more with one other excessive choose, and the Texas product needs to be on the overall supervisor’s radar.

“Total, Banks is a talented go protector with good athletic capability who works successfully on mixture blocks and might line up targets on the transfer however will fall off of blocks on longer growing performs and battle to complete on account of streaky maintain abilities constantly,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn mentioned within the Longhorn’s scouting report.

It felt like this weekend was the make-or-break level within the New York Giants’ season, as New York entered Sunday night time with an opportunity to even out its document and pull inside a sport of tying Washington for the early NFC East lead.

Nevertheless, the loss retains the Giants on the backside of the standings and will push the group’s focus to subsequent yr and past.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: CB Rashad Fenton

The Giants need assistance at cornerback, however they’re additionally not more likely to be competing for a playoff spot this season. So, the group ought to look into including younger gamers who can assist in the long run.

Fenton, who’s simply 27 years outdated, had a great run with the Chiefs to start his profession earlier than struggling a season-ending harm with the Cardinals final season. So, he might assist fill a right away want and probably be an answer within the defensive backfield transferring ahead.

2025 Free Company: CB Paulson Adebo, New Orleans Saints

Alongside the identical traces, Adebo is a nook New York ought to pursue throughout free company. He’ll be 26 in July and had a superb marketing campaign in 2023, yielding a meager 69.9 passer ranking when focused to assist earn an 80.5 protection grade from Pro Football Focus.

By way of 5 weeks of the present season, his mark in protection has dipped to 61.4 however he is nonetheless giving up only a 68.0 passer ranking.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Isaiah Bond, Texas

When Joe Schoen drafted Jalin Hyatt within the third spherical in 2023, the concept was Hyatt can be the offense’s deep risk. Nevertheless, by the crew’s first 5 video games this fall, the wideout hadn’t caught a go and is shedding snaps to Darius Slayton, who’s an impending free agent.

So, Schoen ought to discover if the Texas product might be an improve over Hyatt and fill the function the Tennessee alum was purported to. “Bond will add fast velocity and playmaking to an NFL offense,” B/R’s offensive ability positions scout Damian Parson mentioned.

“His route operating is bettering to create pure separation. He has the velocity to defeat angles on brief run-after-catch conditions. Bond’s deep velocity is the sort to strike worry in defensive coordinators if given single protection and not using a security excessive.

The Jets seemed a bit of extra aggressive with interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich main the crew on the sideline. It wasn’t sufficient to win an important Monday Night time Soccer matchup towards the Payments, although. Aaron Rodgers and firm have been picked off as they have been attempting to both tie or win the sport with just below two minutes to go.

It is a devastating loss for a crew that was attempting to spark a run after firing Robert Saleh final week. They’re going to want to start out successful video games in a rush if they will be a playoff crew in 2024.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for EDGE Arnold Ebiketie, Atlanta Falcons

What seemed like a energy coming into the yr has change into a query mark for the Jets. With Haason Reddick nonetheless holding out and Jermaine Johnson happening injured reserve the Jets go rush might use a shot within the arm.

Arnold Ebiketie has uncooked instruments that made him a second-round choose, however he hasn’t been in a position to command a bigger function inside the Falcons depth rotation. Maybe a brand new teaching workers and state of affairs might assist each events.

2025 Free Company: WR Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals

Signing Mike Williams had the potential to be a game-changer for the Jets offense. Giving Garrett Wilson a operating mate who might threaten defenses downfield was a scary thought. To this point, it hasn’t labored out that approach. Williams hasn’t made an affect and the Jets haven’t got a reliable weapon exterior of Garrett Wilson.

Signing Higgins would not be low cost or straightforward, however it could remedy the issue. Higgins is a professional downfield risk who can do every little thing the Jets have been hoping Williams would.

2025 NFL Draft: DT Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State

The defensive inside is not probably the most urgent want due to Quinnen Williams, however the remainder of their inside rotation is both older or taking part in on an expiring contract. They need to be trying to goal a youthful defensive deal with within the draft who can change into a part of that rotation. Darrell Jackson Jr. is not among the many elite defensive tackles within the class, however he initiatives to be a helpful participant.

“At 6’5″ and 330 kilos, Jackson has NFL dimension for a defensive deal with. He is additionally sturdy on the level of assault and has lengthy arms to get extension on blocks and be a top quality run defender,” Matt Holder famous. “He’s restricted athletically and as a pass-rusher although, however the Seminole can positively be a great two-down defender on the subsequent stage.”

It wasn’t fairly, however the Philadelphia Eagles managed to get the job executed towards Cleveland on Sunday, successful 20-16. A.J. Brown lastly returned to the sphere, taking part in in his first sport because the season opener, and introduced to the world that he is again by hauling in six catches for 116 yards and a landing.

Mixed with Washington’s loss, Philadelphia is now solely a half-game again for the division lead.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: LB Deion Jones

The Eagles might use some assist at linebacker, particularly now that the depth on the place is thinner with Devin White’s launch final Tuesday. So, including a veteran like Jones needs to be on the desk.

The 29-year-old who turns 30 subsequent month is not the participant he was, however he can at the least be a good protection backer if the crew wants somebody to fill in.

2025 Free Company: G Brandon Scherff, Jacksonville Jaguars

Mekhi Becton has executed a stable job of reviving his profession whereas lining up at proper guard in Philadelphia this season. Nevertheless, Becton is barely on a one-year deal which would depart the crew with a necessity on the place if he leaves in free company.

Scherff can be one of the recognizable names amongst inside offensive linemen on the open market. Whereas he won’t be the participant he was, the five-time Professional Bowler has been spectacular in go safety to date this season with simply 5 pressures surrendered by the Jaguars’ first 5 video games, per Pro Football Focus.

2025 NFL Draft: S Lathan Ransom, Ohio State

Reed Blankenship has performed nicely to date this season however C.J. Gardner-Johnson has not, making security a present weak spot for the Eagles. So, particularly contemplating that Blankenship is barely beneath contract by 2025, Howie Roseman ought to discover this yr’s draft class on the place, and the Buckeye is an intriguing prospect.

“Ransom is a bodily, versatile security with the flexibility to play in any respect three ranges of the protection,” B/R’s defensive again scout Cory Giddings mentioned.

“His downhill play type and talent to fill gaps make him an asset within the field, whereas his toughness and timing shine as a blitzer. Although he has above-average protection abilities, his heavy-footedness and tight hips restrict him in area, particularly in deeper protection.”

The Steelers offense has been a piece in progress beneath new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith this season. To this point, their Week 6 efficiency towards the Las Vegas Raiders has seemed the closest to what Smith is thought for. The Steelers ran for 183 yards on 35 carries with Najee Harris topping 100 yards (106) on simply 14 carries. Justin Fields did his half on the bottom as nicely with 59 yards and two touchdowns.

In the event that they proceed to mix that method with a stable protection, they’ll proceed to be a tough out in an ultra-competitive division.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: EDGE Andre Carter, Minnesota Vikings Apply Squad

Accidents have taken a toll on the Steelers’ depth alongside the defensive entrance. The line of defense and edge-rushers are one of many strongest teams on this crew, and it’ll be onerous for them to compete in the event that they proceed coping with accidents. Each Nick Herbig and Alex Highsmith have been unavailable on Sunday, and DeMarvin Leal went on injured reserve.

The choices are few and much between at this level within the season. Somebody like Andre Carter, a former undrafted free agent on the Vikings follow squad, could possibly be value a shot. He was the 11th-ranked edge prospect within the 2023 draft class on our massive board and can be an attention-grabbing mission for the Steelers.

2025 Free Company: DT Levi Onwuzurike, Detroit Lions

In the future, Cam Heyward is lastly going to point out his age. The 35-year-old continues to play at a excessive stage, however Father Time is undefeated. The Steelers are additionally pinning quite a bit on Larry Ogunjobi on the inside as nicely. With Leal almost definitely out for the season with a neck harm, the longer term image for the for defensive inside is considerably dim.

Levi Onwuzurike would offer a lift. It has taken him some time to interrupt by in Detroit, however he has earned an vital function this season. He’ll look to money in throughout free company and can be a great steadiness of expertise and youth within the Steelers’ system.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State

The Steelers really want a second possibility who can take stress off George Pickens and take the passing sport to the following stage. Discovering that participant in free company or by the commerce market could possibly be expensive. Drafting a long-term reply could possibly be the very best route.

Emeka Egbuka profiles as a superb No. 2 receiver. He is a constant route-winner who appears to have a approach of discovering the gentle spot in zone coverages. He is the form of weapon who will change into a quarterback favourite very quickly.

This season hasn’t precisely gotten off to a sizzling begin for the San Francisco 49ers. The crew has battled accidents and has only a middling 3-3 document. Nevertheless, Thursday night time’s win in Seattle places San Francisco in a tie for first place within the NFC West, and assistance is on the best way as a couple of injured gamers needs to be returning within the coming weeks.

To a sure diploma, that nearly makes the 49ers an excellent greater risk within the NFC, as they’ve managed to get thus far whereas battling accidents and off-the-field drama.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: RB Jerick McKinnon

Jordan Mason prevented a serious harm however remains to be thought of “day-to-day” after hurting his shoulder towards the Seahawks. So, particularly with Christian McCaffery nonetheless on injured reserve, it would make sense for the 49ers so as to add one other veteran operating again simply in case Mason has to overlook time.

McKinnon spent three years with the membership from 2018 to 2020 and people did not go nicely due to accidents, however he ought to have familiarity with the system. Plus, the 32-year-old can catch passes out of the backfield which is one thing the offense is lacking with McCaffery sidelined.

2025 Free Company: CB Mike Hughes, Atlanta Falcons

With Charvarius Ward, Isaac Yiadom and Deommodore Lenoir all projected to hit free company this offseason, San Francisco goes to be in search of cornerbacks within the spring. Even when the membership brings again a kind of three gamers and rookie Renardo Inexperienced steps into an even bigger function subsequent season, the protection will nonetheless want at the least yet one more contributor within the secondary.

Hughes can be a good possibility that should not price an excessive amount of cash on the open market. He is been having a stable marketing campaign in 2024, surrendering an 83.6 passer ranking when focused whereas incomes a 69.2 protection grade from Pro Football Focus heading into this previous weekend.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Josh Conerly, Oregon

Trent Williams is barely signed by 2026 and can be 37 years outdated this summer time whereas Colton McKivitz’s contract expires after subsequent yr. So, John Lynch would possibly wish to contemplate including a developmental offensive deal with through the draft this April, and the Oregon product suits that description.

“Conerly is a former highschool operating again who has mild ft and twitch in his actions however continues to be a piece in progress within the play energy division,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn mentioned.

“With a shaky anchor and talent to root his ft as a blocker, there are too many situations the place he is not in a position to maintain blocks, however the athletic traits and motion abilities are value conserving tabs on whereas the remainder of his sport develops.”

After a sizzling 3-0 begin, the next weeks could not have gone a lot worse for the Seattle Seahawks. Thursday night time’s loss to San Francisco makes it three losses in a row for Seattle because the crew, particularly the protection, has been tormented by accidents these days.

Fortunately, the Seahawks have some further time to recoup with the mini bye week, and so they’re nonetheless in a good place to make the playoffs heading into this Sunday’s matchup with the Falcons.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: OT La’el Collins

Abraham Lucas has but to play in a sport this season, and ESPN’s Brady Henderson reported final Friday that Lucas will miss this week’s contest as nicely. In the meantime, Stone Forsythe has been struggling to carry down the fort with 35 pressures surrendered and a 51.6 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus.

So, the Seahawks ought to look into bringing in a reinforcement at proper deal with, and Collins is considered one of their finest choices at this stage.

2025 Free Company: LB Robert Spillane, Las Vegas Raiders

Beginning linebackers Jerome Baker and Tyrel Dodson are on one-year offers, so Seattle will doubtless be in search of at the least one linebacker this offseason. The problem is the entrance workplace is at the moment projected to have simply $6.3 million of cap area out there, per Over The Cap, so the membership should discover some cost-effective options.

Spillane should not be too costly, as he was a backup/spot starter for many of his profession and turns 29 in December. That being mentioned, he is been a full-time starter through the previous two seasons in Las Vegas and made an affect a as run defender. The seven-year professional has logged over 200 whole tackles in his final 22 video games heading into this weekend.

2025 NFL Draft: OL Emery Jones Jr., LSU

As talked about above, Lucas has battled accidents this yr. On high of that, he is solely beneath contract by 2025. Additionally, Connor Williams and Laken Tomlinson are impending free brokers, so the Seahawks might use an offensive lineman who can line up at proper deal with or play on the inside.

Jones at the moment performs proper deal with at LSU however has the potential to maneuver to protect within the professionals, making him a great slot in Seattle.

“Total, Jones has the body, play energy and demeanor to ship jolt, displacement and high-level finishes with the youth and flashes of correct posture and strike timing in go safety to point appreciable upside,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn mentioned through the Tiger’s scouting report.

“However shaky physique management and steadiness too typically sap his capability to maintain, leaving extra questions than solutions in his projection to the NFL.”

Week 6 can be remembered because the Sean Tucker sport for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The second-year operating again had simply 53 whole yards in his profession heading into Sunday however racked up 136 yards on the bottom whereas including one other 56 as a receiver. Moreover, not solely did Tucker log his first dashing landing, however he additionally recorded his first receiving rating to cap off a powerful efficiency.

That helped Tampa Bay overcome its personal errors and nonetheless pull out a dominant 24-point win whereas dropping 51 on New Orleans. The victory additionally allowed the Bucs to maintain tempo with the Falcons within the division standings.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: S Adrian Amos

Antoine Winfield Jr. simply returned from harm this week after not taking part in because the season opener, whereas Jordan Whitehead and Christian Izien have been on this previous week’s harm report. With that in thoughts, the Buccaneers would possibly wish to add a veteran security to the depth chart simply in case.

Amos did not get a lot taking part in time with the Jets and Texans final season, however he did permit only a 62.2 passer ranking when focused and earned an 89.6 run protection grade from Pro Football Focus on his restricted alternatives.

2025 Free Company: WR Darius Slayton, New York Giants

Chris Godwin is an impending free agent and, given the present large receiver market, it’ll be robust for Tampa Bay to afford him in free company. In keeping with Over The Cap, the group is at the moment projected to have about $28.3 million of cap area out there whereas solely having 42 gamers beneath contract.

So, the entrance workplace ought to look into some cheaper choices to pair with Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan subsequent season. Slayton should not be too costly and he is been productive all through his profession with over 700 yards in 4 out of 5 seasons whereas coping with the Giants’ sub-par quarterback play over time.

2025 NFL Draft: LB Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma

With beginning linebackers Lavonte David and Okay.J. Britt anticipated to hit free company this offseason, Jason Licht will doubtless be diving into this yr’s linebacker class within the draft. The Oklahoma product is an intriguing prospect, as he has a great mix of dimension and motion abilities to work with, his instincts simply want some work.

“In protection, Stutsman’s velocity is obvious as he can cowl the flat shortly, near converge on the ball after the catch and be efficient when taking part in Tampa 2,” the Sooner’s scouting report says. “Additionally, his spectacular change of path abilities and fluid hips will assist him take away operating backs and tight ends in man protection.”

Week 6 may be generally known as the purpose when the Titans season went into desperation mode. Going through a banged-up Colts crew with Joe Flacco beginning for an injured Anthony Richardson, the Titans nonetheless could not muster a win.

The Colts have had one of many worst go defenses within the early levels of the season. Will Levis solely had 95 passing yards on 27 makes an attempt. The run sport was promising and the protection largely held the Colts offense in test, nevertheless it was all overshadowed by the shortage of explosiveness on offense.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: DT Tommy Togiai, Houston Texans Apply Squad

The Titans are too far-off from competing to make any sweeping trades. But, they should stay aggressive by this a part of the season and are coping with a shallow rotation of inside defenders. With Keondre Coburn out, they simply haven’t got many individuals who can play on the within.

Tommy Togiai is out there to be poached from the Houston Texans follow squad. He received some run with the Cleveland Browns in 2021 and 2022 and is barely 25 years outdated.

2025 Free Company: TE Tyler Conklin, New York Jets

The Chigoziem Okonkwo experiment ought to most likely come to an finish subsequent season. The 25-year-old was a fantasy soccer darling for his athletic testing and pass-catching explosiveness in a small pattern. Nevertheless, he would not make sufficient performs to warrant his poor blocking.

The Titans can be smart to discover a extra dependable tight finish who brings extra full package deal of blocking and receiving. Tyler Conklin has confirmed himself as a beginning tight finish who can do each. He isn’t going to guide the crew in explosive performs, however he is a stable blocker and has good arms.

2025 NFL Draft: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

This choose comes immediately from Brent Sobleski’s latest top 10 mock draft. As Sobleski famous, the Titans might realistically go into subsequent season with a still-unclear image of Will Levis. He has been up and down to date this season and there is positively a situation the place the Titans have a look at the out there quarterbacks and keep on with Levis for an additional season.

If that is the case, they’ve to verify he has loads of weapons. DeAndre Hopkins is an impending free agent whose age makes it unlikely that he needs to be re-signed. Drafting Tetairoa McMillan, one of many premier receivers within the class, would give them a stable 1-2 punch with Calvin Ridley.

Whereas there are not any ethical victories within the NFL, the Washington Commanders have to be ok with their efficiency in Baltimore.

Washington was going through a perennial playoff membership and did not look overmatched in any respect. The crew held its personal to make it a one-possession contest and stored combating till the final whistle. The loss would possibly sting, however within the massive image, the Commanders are nonetheless main the NFC East after six weeks and will have constructed some confidence to construct on for the remainder of the marketing campaign.

Greatest Weaknesses:

Add Now: Commerce for WR Amari Cooper, Cleveland Browns

Whereas the Commanders’ offense has been buzzing for almost all of the season to date, the entrance workplace would possibly wish to discover including yet one more receiver earlier than the commerce deadline. Cooper not too long ago appeared because the No. 4 total participant on B/R’s NFL Trade Block Big Board and was named a great pickup for the crew.

“Washington is constructing an thrilling offense round rookie sensation Jayden Daniels,” B/R’s Kristopher Knox wrote. “A part of the plan has concerned surrounding the quarterback with seasoned veterans like Austin Ekeler and Zach Ertz. Including Cooper would observe that plan and provides Daniels one other top-tier goal reverse Terry McLaurin.”

2025 Free Company: EDGE Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers

Washington’s edge-rushers aren’t terribly spectacular proper now, and the place group will doubtless take a success within the offseason since Dante Fowler Jr. and Clelin Ferrell are impending free brokers. With a present projection of over $120 million of cap area, per Over The Cap, the entrance workplace ought to go after a giant fish on the open market this spring.

Mack can be one of many high gamers out there on the place, and even at 33 years outdated, he is nonetheless taking part in at a excessive stage with 19.5 sacks in his final 21 video games heading into this previous weekend.

2025 NFL Draft: OT Josh Simmons, Ohio State

As talked about final week, Adam Peters will doubtless be diving into this yr’s offensive deal with class with Cornelius Lucas’ contract about to run out. Whereas this yr’s draft class is not nice on the place, the Buckeye has been a riser to date this season and is somebody to maintain tabs on transferring ahead.

“With shades of Christian Darrisaw in his physique kind and motion abilities, Simmons is a stoutly constructed, straightforward mover with spectacular vary as a go protector to deal with himself on an island,” B/R’s offensive line scout Brandon Thorn mentioned. He additionally reveals good aggressive toughness and physicality.”

Nevertheless, it’s value noting that Simmons is probably going out for the remainder of the season after struggling an harm on Saturday towards Oregon.