With the 2024 NFL Draft on the horizon, teams are beginning to position themselves to cover their biggest weaknesses. Among these, the Dallas Cowboys have identified four critical positions: quarterback, wide receiver, edge rusher, and running back. It makes sense considering their plan to re-load their roster and compete for the best record in the upcoming season. At the same time, other teams are looking at a broader set of criteria to further improve their chances for success.
The Cowboys, the most dangerous team coming into the draft with a purpose, want to address holes at QB and WR. With the ED selection strategy clearly tuned to uncovering some diamond in the rough playmaker who can boost their attacking thrusts, they are just as much motivated to fortifying their defense by focusing in on the lack of depth at edge rusher.
Team-Specific Needs
It’s not just Washington making moves to shore up their biggest needs ahead of the draft date. As an interesting example, the Carolina Panthers are flagging running back, cornerback, and wide receiver as their top needs in their draft plan. A dynamic change-of-pace running back could really enhance their offensive firepower. At the same time, adding to the cornerback room will further improve a defense that has struggled in recent years.
Even with an impressive defense and offensive line, teams such as the Denver Broncos temporarily shored up their roster but entered the offseason with ample questions remaining. The Seattle Seahawks plan to use this 2023 offseason to aggressively fill several key holes in their lineup. They must primarily focus on the wide receiver class to increase their offensive playmaking depth.
The other obvious need for the San Francisco 49ers is to fix their pass rush, which was a pitiful 28th in pressure rate a year ago. They have to give their DBs a breather and get creative in how to do so. This omission could become deadly in close races.
Draft Strategies and Predictions
This is the time of year when general managers all over the league begin to make savvy moves, setting themselves up for the draft. Take Howie Roseman, the Philadelphia Eagles GM, who brought in edge rushers on one-year contracts. That shouldn’t prevent him from trying to reinforce their decidedly mediocre defensive line—especially in the first round of the draft. This decision adds even greater emphasis to both the short- and long-term planning as teams approach the offseason intent on improving their rosters.
It gets dangerous quickly. It’s a tough spot for the Detroit Lions. Their pass rush faltered badly once Aidan Hutchinson succumbed to injury last season. They should be held accountable to address this critical need as they develop their first draft plan. The New England Patriots have set themselves up well with some really strong Day 3 selections. With these picks, they have the chance to add some high-impact talent to their roster.
“He brings excellent accuracy, completing 74% of his throws last season. He brings toughness in the pocket. I think he will be an outstanding pro QB, and I believe we will look back on this pick in a few years and question what the rest of the NFL was doing.” – Mel Kiper Jr.
The Impact of Recent Trades
Recent trades have influenced draft strategies. This year the Baltimore Ravens traded down a whopping two times. These moves have provided them with surplus assets that might better meet their growing needs. Real life example: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are currently reassessing their offensive needs. Last season, both Evans and Godwin fended off injuries, with each player missing extensive game action.
The Washington Commanders will deal with issues with new quarterback Anthony Richardson, a rookie last year who faltered when pressured. Addressing his performance will be crucial if they want any shot at being competitive.
“I love his game — he runs crisp routes and has dependable hands. I had Matthew Golden ranked higher, but I was hearing some first-round buzz on Egbuka, so the value lines up.” – Mel Kiper Jr.
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