As the NFL prepares for the 2024 season, teams across the league are strategizing their final moves in free agency and contract negotiations. Three of the most important pieces to that puzzle have been at center stage in recent days, with trades and long-term extensions possibly forthcoming. Analysts are looking to make major proclamations based off an athlete’s first performance. Of those, ESPN’s Aaron Schatz ranks how these situations might impact their teams.
Malik Washington has certainly proven a positive trending dynamic. Last year, this wide receiver had 26 receptions for 223 yards with zero touchdowns scored. His performance has left the team questioning whether Washington will be in their plans moving forward as they try to improve one of the worst NFL offenses. The name to keep your eye on here is Tahj Washington. Well after missing all of his rookie season due to an undisclosed long-term injury, he intends to come back with a vengeance.
Key Player Developments
The league is witnessing significant contract negotiations, most notably for T.J. Watt, an edge rusher who recently skipped mandatory minicamp due to ongoing discussions regarding his contract. His absence raises concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season and how it may affect his performance on the field.
In addition to Watt, players such as Kolton Miller and Zach Tom are similarly due contract extensions. Miller, a left tackle, has been one of the most consistently dominant players on this team, and an extension is coming that will mirror that kind of impact. Tom ranked 18th in pass block win rate with 95.1% last season. In run block win rate, he ranked first among his peers at 75.4%. Now, he’s in a great position for an extension that compensates him appropriately.
Most recently, Derek Stingley Jr. signed the second-largest three-year deal ever, $90 million. This remarkable contract raises the bar for everyone else in search of a similar deal. The negotiations surrounding Stingley emphasize the importance of securing top talent as teams aim to build competitive rosters.
Contract Disputes and Future Contracts
His future with the team is still up in the air as discussions continue. This novel dilemma points to other obstacles teams must navigate when balancing player development with the need to be competitive on the field.
Moreover, the contracts of Joel Bitonio, Ethan Pocic, Wyatt Teller, and Jack Conklin are set to void after the 2025 season. Their expiring contract situation will further shape schemes and personnel across the league as teams begin to think about possible replacements or extensions over the next few years.
While teams prepare for the next draft, Christian Haynes isn’t waiting around. The 2024 third-round pick has been the one leading the charge at RG. His rise through the ranks of the team further highlights the necessity of bringing new players, ideas, and energy into veteran squads.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, his former pupil quarterbacks such as Tua Tagovailoa are looking for more help on their rosters. Tagovailoa would benefit from having a reliable security blanket as he looks to improve his game in the upcoming season. The addition of a strong receiver or tight end could provide him with the options he needs to enhance his performance.
Wide receiver Jahan Dotson is another player who has a pretty good outlook on his second campaign on the professional circuit. 2015 is a new year, and he thinks he can do better this time around. That would result in high-profile assistance to his club’s attack.
As teams finalize their strategies ahead of the 2024 season, analysts like Aaron Schatz will continue to evaluate player performances and contract negotiations. The NFL landscape is incredibly dynamic, and the choices made over this span will likely influence the next NFL season in significant ways.
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