Ceiling, flooring for all 32 NFL groups for 2024: Chiefs, Lions primed for Tremendous Bowl; 49ers, Eagles challengers

The 2024 NFL season is lastly right here, as all 32 groups enter this week with desires of successful a Super Bowl title. Groups that are not championship contenders in Week 1 have the chance to compete for the Super Bowl. The Houston Texans are the prime instance, having a rookie quarterback and rookie head coach take them to the divisional spherical after 11 wins within the earlier three seasons mixed. 

Which crew can be this 12 months’s Houston Texans? Who’s the most important risk to the Kansas City Chiefs‘ championship three-peat? Quite a lot of elements have to go proper to ensure that both to return to fruition. What’s a crew’s sensible ceiling in 2023? How good can every crew be with its present roster? Or how badly can issues collapse?

With the NFL season right here, let’s check out the ceiling and flooring for all 32 franchises. Consider this as a information of what to anticipate for every crew this season — or how we predict issues will play out. 

Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs

The Cardinals received a stunning 4 video games final season with one of many worst rosters within the NFL, together with going 3-5 of their final eight video games. They have been one in every of two groups to beat the Eagles and Cowboys final season (49ers have been the opposite) and had three wins in opposition to playoff groups. Kyler Murray continues to be the franchise quarterback and has rookie extensive receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and rising tight finish Trey McBride as his high targets. With James Conner again at operating again, the offense is balanced sufficient to hold this group in 12 months two of their rebuild. 

Flooring: 5-12, miss playoffs

Though the Cardinals have a aggressive roster, their protection nonetheless is incomplete. Including Darius Robinson to the move rush will assist, however that is nonetheless a gaggle that completed final in quarterback hits final 12 months with 55. The protection ought to be improved, however the unit is not ok to compete in a 17-game season. The secondary wants rookie cornerbacks Max Melton and Elijah Jones to be rapid contributors. 

Ceiling: 11-6, win NFC South

No crew arguably added extra this offseason than the Falcons, beginning with paying Kirk Cousins $180 million to be their quarterback. Cousins is the quarterback the franchise has lacked since Matt Ryan departed, as Atlanta lastly has a participant that may get essentially the most out of extensive receiver Drake London and tight finish Kyle Pitts. Bijan Robinson operating behind one of many NFL’s finest run-blocking offensive traces makes the Falcons much more harmful. Atlanta is primed to win the NFC South and snaps their seven-year playoff drought. 

Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs 

The Falcons look good on paper, however can Raheem Morris profit from his second probability as a head coach? The offense is within the fingers of Zac Robinson, however is the protection ok to get them the ball? Even with security Jessie Bates, the Falcons had simply 16 takeaways final season. The move rush added Matt Judon to assist out Arnold Ebiketie, the one participant on the roster remaining with 6+ sacks final 12 months. There’s additionally the Kirk Cousins-Michael Penix situation, which should not be a dialog this 12 months. 

Ceiling: 13-4, win Super Bowl

The Ravens have been the No. 1 seed within the AFC final season earlier than falling to the Chiefs at dwelling within the AFC Championship recreation. They’ve among the best coaches in John Harbaugh and the reigning MVP in Lamar Jackson. In addition they added Derrick Henry to pair with Jackson for probably the most harmful quarterback-running again mixtures within the recreation. Baltimore has one of many high defenses within the recreation, led by security Kyle Hamilton and defensive sort out Justin Madubuike. The Ravens would be the Chiefs’ largest risk within the AFC. 

Flooring: 11-6, lose in wild card spherical

As Jackson goes, so do the Ravens. Any harm to Jackson derails the Ravens’ possibilities at successful a Super Bowl, or getting the highest seed within the AFC once more. This might be a risk with three new starters on the offensive line. The protection will nonetheless be elite, however can new defensive coordinator replicate the play-calling success of Mike Macdonald? The Ravens additionally play within the brutal AFC North. Baltimore ought to nonetheless be actually good, however the postseason seed is paramount. 

Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC East and attain Super Bowl

The Payments are the one of many championship contenders within the AFC, and are all the time guess to win 10+ video games a 12 months. They nonetheless have one of many recreation’s finest quarterbacks in Josh Allen, who has 173 passing and speeding touchdowns over the past 4 seasons (most in 4 season span in NFL historical past). The supporting solid is completely different with no Stefon Diggs at extensive receiver, however the Payments have two promising move catchers in tight finish Dalton Kincaid and extensive receiver Keon Coleman. The protection continues to be good regardless of the lack of move rusher Leonard Floyd and linebacker Tyrel Dodson. The Payments are the crew to beat within the AFC East, and earned that proper. 

Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs

Can the Payments face up to all of the offseason adjustments to their roster? The offense ought to nonetheless be good with out Diggs, however is Curtis Samuel and Marques Valdez-Scantling sufficient to compensate the loss? Buffalo is banking on Coleman and Khalil Shakir to make strides this 12 months — and Coleman has but to play an NFL common season recreation. The protection would not have Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde at security anymore, having extra questions within the secondary. Is there sufficient within the move rush with AJ Epensea, Gregory Rousseau, and Ed Oliver? There are a whole lot of questions in Buffalo, and the AFC East is sweet. 

Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs

The Panthers proved final season their rebuild goes to take a while. They nonetheless do not know whether or not Bryce Young is a franchise quarterback, hiring Dave Canales as head coach to repair him. They invested within the offensive line with guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis and added at extensive receiver with Diontae Johnson and first-round choose Xavier Legette. This season all comes right down to Younger’s improvement, because the Panthers he can be a part of the likes of Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield as Canales’ subsequent reclamation venture. Canales is an effective coach, so Carolina ought to be higher. 

Flooring: 3-14, miss playoffs

For all of the offseason strikes Carolina made, the roster nonetheless wants extra expertise. Once more, the Panthers are in a rebuild with a second-year quarterback who’s beginning over and a first-year head coach. Carolina has had seven head coaches within the final six seasons, so continuity could be good. Younger had the worst document (2-14), yards per try (5.5), and passer ranking (73.7) of any quarterback final season, so he cannot be worse proper? If Younger would not enhance, this can be one other lengthy season in Carolina. This season is all about whether or not Younger can play quarterback. 

Ceiling: 9-8, miss playoffs

These are thrilling instances in Chicago, which lastly has a franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams. The Bears did greater than sufficient to make sure Williams has rookie season, including extensive receivers Rome Odunze and Keenan Allen to pair with D.J. Moore. D’Andre Swift was additionally introduced in at operating again to pair with Khalil Herbert. The Bears additionally re-signed cornerback Jaylon Johnson, as he and move rusher Montez Sweat are the cornerstones of their revamped protection. Chicago had the worst passing offense over the previous two seasons, which ought to be an issue in 2024 with Shane Waldron because the play caller. 

Flooring: 6-11, miss playoffs 

There is not any means the Bears might end with a worse document than final 12 months proper? The jury continues to be out on whether or not Matt Eberflus can coach or if the offensive line is sweet sufficient to guard Williams for 17 video games. Williams continues to be a rookie quarterback and could have some struggles regardless of all of the expertise round him. Odunze will not be an instantaneous contributor as properly — and he would not should be. The NFC North can also be an excellent division. The Bears might be that crew that takes a step again to go two steps ahead. 

Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC North and attain Super Bowl

If Joe Burrow is wholesome, the Bengals are a Super Bowl contender within the AFC. When Burrow performs 11+ video games in an everyday season, the Bengals have performed in a convention championship recreation. Burrow had a wholesome coaching camp, in order that’s already a superb signal. The Bengals have extensive receiver Tee Higgins on the franchise tag and may have Ja’Marr Chase signed by Week 1. In addition they revamped the offensive line with Amarius Mims and Trent Brown, whereas having one of many underrated free agent signings in security Geno Stone whereas additionally bringing again Vonn Bell. Cincinnati is primed to compete for a Super Bowl. 

Flooring: 10-7, lose in wild card spherical

The Bengals ought to be a playoff crew in 2024, having a successful season regardless of Burrow lacking seven video games final 12 months. Dropping Joe Mixon is a priority, however the crew is excessive on Chase Brown — who will pair with Zack Moss at operating again. There are nonetheless contract conditions to kind out with Chase, Higgins, and move rusher Trey Hendrickson — so this might be the final 12 months of that championship window with this core.  On the very least, the Bengals ought to survive the AFC North and make the playoffs. In fact, Burrow has to stay wholesome. 

Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC North and playoff recreation 

The Browns had the makings of a playoff crew final 12 months, which ought to be the case once more. They added Jerry Jeudy to pair with Amari Cooper at extensive receiver and ought to be getting operating again Nick Chubb again from the PUP sooner or later. Top-of-the-line defenses within the NFL reloaded with Za’Darius Smith re-signing and defensive sort out Quinton Jefferson added to the combination. Ought to point out this protection has move rusher Myles Garrett, cornerback Denzel Ward, and linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koromoah. The Browns are as balanced as they arrive and have head coach in Kevin Stefanski. This can be a good crew. 

Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs 

Is DeShaun Watson ever going to stay as much as the $230 million assured wage? The Browns are going to seek out out this 12 months as Watson stays the most important query mark on this gifted roster. If Watson performs like he did final 12 months, the Browns might have to maneuver on at quarterback although they need to be a playoff crew regardless. Watson needs to be higher than what he has proven throughout his time with the Browns. If Cleveland will get something near the Texans model of Watson, the Browns are a Super Bowl contender. There is a ton of stress on Watson this season. 

Ceiling: 12-5, attain convention championship recreation

For all of the dialogue of what the Cowboys did not do, Dallas nonetheless has probably the most gifted rosters within the convention. Dak Prescott continues to be the quarterback and he’ll be throwing to extensive receivers CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks, together with tight finish Jake Ferguson. The offensive line continues to be superb, even with two rookies. The protection nonetheless has move rushers Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, together with cornerback Trevon Diggs. DaRon Bland can be again sooner or later. The Cowboys ought to be a playoff crew, however getting previous the divisional spherical is the large hurdle. 

Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs 

Though the Cowboys weren’t “all in” this offseason, will their lack of strikes damage them? Ezekiel Elliott and Dalvin Cook do not precisely strike concern at operating again, and there’ll nonetheless be a studying curve for sort out Tyler Guyton and guard Cooper Beebe. Are Mazi Smith and Osa Odighizuwa ok at defensive sort out for a 17-game season? There are holes on this roster that may’t be ignored. Issues might collapse in Dallas shortly, particularly with Prescott enjoying underneath an unsure future. 

Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs

The Broncos are in rebuild mode as they look forward to the useless cap hit of the disastrous Russell Wilson contract to move. Denver nonetheless has a promising rookie quarterback in Bo Nix, who could have a steep studying curve with the shortage of expertise round him. The Broncos want Courtland Sutton — who’s fairly good — and Marvin Mims to take the following step, and Javonte Williams to remain wholesome. The protection has cornerback Patrick Surtain, move rusher John Franklin-Meyers and never a lot else. Arduous to win video games with a rookie quarterback and never a lot expertise round him on each side of the ball. 

Flooring: 3-14, miss playoffs

The perfect factor for the Broncos this season is Nix proving he generally is a franchise quarterback. That is all Denver has going because the season begins. The move rush would not have any distinction makers whereas the linebackers depart so much to be desired. Groups ought to have the ability to run all around the Broncos protection this 12 months. Denver goes to have points getting off the sphere. This roster wants some work. 

Ceiling: 13-4, attain Super Bowl

This 12 months would be the Lions finest probability to win a championship since 1957, the final time they received a title. Detroit has a franchise quarterback in Jared Goff, who’s enjoying behind among the best offensive traces within the league (Penei Sewell could also be one of the best sort out). Jahmyr Gibbs will solely get higher at operating again in his second season and has David Montgomery with him. Amon-Ra St. Brown is without doubt one of the finest wideouts within the recreation and Sam LaPorta is already a top-10 tight finish. If Jameson Williams lives as much as his first-round expertise, the Lions offense could also be one of the best within the NFC. They would be the crew to beat within the NFC. 

Flooring: 10-7, lose in wild card spherical

As loaded because the Lions are on offense, there are questions in regards to the protection. Aidan Hutchinson is a star move rusher, however are Marcus Davenport and Alim McNeill sufficient to go with him on the defensive entrance? Carlton Davis and rookie Terrion Arnold generally is a harmful duo at cornerback, whereas security Brian Branch has the makings of a future All-Professional. Jack Campbell was a welcome addition at linebacker as a rookie, but is there sufficient depth? If the expertise comes collectively, Detroit generally is a very powerful out. There are a whole lot of inquiries to be answered with this protection. 

Ceiling: 12-5, win NFC North and attain convention championship recreation

One of many rising groups within the NFL, the Packers made certain Jordan Love was signed to an enormous extension. Love was unbelievable within the remaining eight video games of final season, and the long run is extremely vibrant for the younger star. The Packers are loaded on the ability positions, with extensive receivers Christian Watson and Jayden Reed main the way in which. Josh Jacobs is a welcome addition at operating again, because the Packers moved on from Aaron Jones. The security place was revamped with Xavier McKinney and rookie Javon Bullard, whereas Jaire Alexander nonetheless leads the secondary at cornerback. That is nonetheless one of many youngest groups within the NFL and the Lions’ largest risk within the NFC North. 

Flooring: 9-8, lose in wild card spherical 

Love is sweet, however what he would not take this gigantic leap most predict? Does that have an effect on the Packers’ capability to win video games? The offensive line has some questions, however a wholesome Elgton Jenkins and Zach Tom go a good distance towards serving to out that unit. Is Marshawn Lloyd sufficient to again up Jacobs at operating again? This crew seems to rely upon the success of Love, who must play on the degree of that eight-game stretch from final season to go deep within the playoffs. Do not be fooled, this can be a good roster. 

Houston Texans 

Ceiling: 13-4, win AFC South and attain convention championship recreation

Simple to overlook how younger this Texans crew is and the way C.J. Stroud and DeMeco Ryans are of their second 12 months collectively. The shock crew of the NFL final season added Stefon Diggs at extensive receiver and Joe Mixon at operating again to make a loaded offense even higher. Nico Collins and Tank Dell with Diggs kind among the best extensive receiver trios in soccer. The protection added move rusher Danielle Hunter to associate with Will Anderson, and now have Denico Autry coming over from the Titans (he is suspended the primary six video games). Azeez Al-Shaair is the brand new MIKE linebacker and Derek Stingley is without doubt one of the finest younger cornerbacks within the recreation. The Texans are loaded. Reaching the following spherical of the playoffs could be an enormous step for a franchise that has the appears to be like of a Tremendous Bowl contender. 

Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs

The offensive line nonetheless must gel, although they’ve promising younger gamers in guard Kenyon Green and middle Juice Scruggs. Linebacker is clearly the weak spot on this protection and security has two new faces in Jimmie Ward and rookie Calen Bullock. Stroud is a star, but what occurs if he hits the proverbial sophomore stoop? The Texans can be circled on the schedule too. Even with the expertise, Houston might take a step again to take two steps ahead. They should not end with a shedding document, however the NFL is unusual. 

Ceiling: 11-6, win AFC South

Getting Anthony Richardson again is very large for the Colts, who performed simply 4 video games with a head and shoulder harm. Richardson remodeled the Colts offense together with his operating capability, although he nonetheless has to evolve as a passer. Indianapolis helped Richardson out with rookie wideouts Adonai Mitchell and Josh Downs, and re-signed Michael Pittman. The Colts even have Jonathan Taylor in his prime at operating again, operating behind an offensive line that performed to its potential. Laiatu Latu might win rookie of the 12 months, including to a move rush that is already gifted. The Colts are a sneaky, good crew that simply missed the playoffs final 12 months. 

Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs 

If Richardson will get damage once more and misses a whole lot of time, can Joe Flacco maintain the fort down like Gardner Minshew did final 12 months? Can the offensive line play to their potential once more or will they regress to their 2022 kind? Outdoors cornerback can also be a priority, however JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones ought to progress. Shane Steichen is an effective head coach, however this crew goes by way of Richardson staying on the sphere. 

Ceiling: 11-6, win AFC South

The Jaguars fell wanting expectations final season, having the No. 1 seed within the convention in November to overlook the playoffs totally. Trevor Lawrence received a contract extension, but questions stay if he deserves to receives a commission like an elite quarterback. Turnovers have plagued Lawrence since he entered the league. Prime extensive receiver Calvin Ridley is gone, however in comes Gabriel Davis and rookie Brian Thomas Jr. Ryan Nielsen can also be answerable for revamping a protection like he did with the Falcons final season, having a potent move rush with Josh Hines-Allen, Trayvon Walker, and Arik Armstead. Jacksonville ought to be improved from final season’s collapse. 

Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs

Turnovers have plagued Lawrence since he entered the league, a problem he has to right if the Jaguars wish to contend within the AFC. Does the secondary have sufficient playmakers, particularly at cornerback with Ronald Darby and Tyson Campbell? Offensive line has been an issue in Jacksonville, but Mitch Morse was offseason pickup. Anton Harrison additionally will get a possibility to show he is the long-term proper sort out. Jacksonville has holes on the roster, however there’s expertise on the vital positions. 

Kansas Metropolis Chiefs 

Ceiling: 14-3, win Tremendous Bowl

Going for his or her third consecutive championship, the Chiefs are loaded. Whereas it begins with head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have been carried by their protection to the title final season. Kansas Metropolis reloaded on offense, including Marquise Brown in free company and Xavier Worthy within the draft to pair with Rashee Rice at extensive receiver. In fact, Travis Kelce continues to be one of the best tight finish within the recreation. Kingsley Suamataia is an enormous addition at left sort out, making one of many high offensive traces within the recreation even higher. The protection continues to be among the best within the league with Chris Jones main the way in which. The Chiefs seem primed for a three-peat. 

Flooring: 11-6, lose in convention championship recreation

The Chiefs hit their flooring final season with 11 wins and nonetheless received the Tremendous Bowl. Something lower than a championship is a disappointment in Kansas Metropolis, however there are methods the Chiefs cannot full the three-peat. Will the lack of cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and linebacker Willie Homosexual have an effect on the protection? There can be stress on Nazeeh Johnson to fill that void at cornerback. Kansas Metropolis nonetheless has Nick Bolton and Drue Tranquill at linebacker, so the lack of Homosexual will not be as evident. Until the Chiefs collapse deep within the playoffs once more, this crew ought to be one of many 4 groups on convention championship weekend. 

Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs

Depend on the Raiders enjoying laborious underneath Antonio Pierce, however this crew wants a franchise quarterback with a purpose to compete for a playoff spot. Gardner Minshew received the job, however he’s a placeholder for the following franchise quarterback. Aidan O’Connell could also be in the identical state of affairs. Whoever is quarterback, they’ve wonderful ability place gamers to throw to in extensive receivers Davante Adams, Jakobi Meyers and rookie tight finish Brock Bowers. Maxx Crosby and new addition Christian Wilkins kind among the best pass-rushing duos in soccer. 

Flooring: 3-14, miss playoffs

The Raiders have some expertise, however the general roster has so much to be desired. The secondary might quit a whole lot of yards to opposing quarterbacks and the precise aspect of the offensive line is not favorable for any quarterback. Las Vegas might additionally wrestle operating the soccer all 12 months. The Raiders could also be on their franchise quarterback look ahead to 2025. 

Ceiling: 10-7, lose in wild card spherical

The Chargers are one of many hardest groups to venture within the NFL. Jim Harbaugh is again within the league and instantly provides the franchise a tradition change they badly wanted. He additionally has a franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert to unleash. Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt are arguably one of the best duo of younger offensive tackles within the recreation, and there is a whole lot of promise with the Gus Edwards-J.Ok. Dobbins operating again duo coming over from Baltimore. Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack are nonetheless a formidable move rush. Bear in mind, the Chargers have been a playoff crew two seasons in the past. 

Flooring: 7-10, miss playoffs

The well being of Herbert goes a good distance, however are the move catchers ok? This will depend on how shortly rookie Ladd McConkey acclimates himself to the NFL. The linebackers and secondary are additionally a piece in progress,  so much for defensive coordinator Jesse Minter to rework in a single 12 months. Derwin James staying on the sphere can be huge. Regardless, the Chargers ought to win no less than seven video games in 2024. 

Ceiling: 11-6, lose in divisional spherical

The Rams returned to the postseason final 12 months, which was a little bit of a shock. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, operating again Kyren Williams, and extensive receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua fashioned arguably among the best squads within the league — because the Rams have been nearly as good as any offense with these 4 on the sphere. Cross rushers Kobe Turner, Byron Younger and Jared Verse kind among the best trios within the league, whereas Kamren Curl was a welcome addition at security. The Rams can be powerful out within the NFC West if their playmakers can keep on the sphere. 

Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs

Los Angeles is actually a Stafford harm away from competing for a division title to lacking the playoffs totally. The offensive line was revamped to maintain Stafford upright, however there are questions with how environment friendly they will be. Getting the All-Professional model of Tre’Davious White will considerably hep out the secondary, which has expertise but additionally a whole lot of key items seeking to revamp their careers. Accidents damage a whole lot of groups, however might actually derail the Rams.

Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC East and attain convention championship recreation

The Dolphins offense is nearly as good as any crew within the NFL when issues are clicking. Tua Tagovailoa is without doubt one of the best quarterbacks and will get to throw to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle on a weekly foundation. The operating backs — led by Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane — are an ideal match for Mike McDaniel’s scheme. The offensive line is sweet when Terron Armstead is on the sphere. Miami’s offense can carry this crew to the division title and deep into the postseason. 

Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs 

Can the Dolphins beat successful groups? That was the difficulty from final season, wherein the offense went stagnant in opposition to high defenses. This can be a teaching challenge McDaniel and his employees should right. Anthony Weave additionally inherits a protection that has move rushers Jaelen Phillips, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and free security Jevon Holland. Including Jordan Poyer at security is an underrated transfer, however can this protection be higher than Vic Fangio’s unit final 12 months? Regardless, Miami will go so far as their offense will take it. 

Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs

The Vikings are one of many hardest groups to venture in 2024, particularly now that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is out for the season. Minnesota will get a full season of Sam Darnold as beginning quarterback, which might have an effect on a doubtlessly good offense with operating again Aaron Jones and extensive receiver Justin Jefferson. Tight finish T.J. Hockenson would not have a timeline on his return from harm whereas it is unsure how lengthy extensive receiver Jordan Addison is out. Even with a considerably improved Vikings protection underneath Brian Flores (move rusher Jonathan Greenard being the spotlight addition), seven wins appear to be a promising 12 months with all of the accidents this crew has skilled within the early going. 

Flooring: 4-13, miss playoffs

The accidents might considerably derail the Vikings in what appears to be like to be a brutal NFC North. If Darnold struggles, Minnesota would not have McCarthy to depend on for this season. This season seemed promising over what McCarthy might do with this offense. The additions of Greenard, linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, and cornerback Stephon Gilmore ought to considerably assist the protection. If the prior model of Darnold is a factor of the previous, the Vikings win far more than 4 video games. 

Ceiling: 6-11, miss playoffs

The Patriots would be the worst crew within the NFL this season, as they’re nonetheless in rebuild mode. Drake Maye will finally begin at quarterback, but the offensive line could have the rookie quarterback operating for his life. The Patriots offense can be relying upon operating again Rhamondre Stevenson so much this season. The protection ought to be stable (led by cornerback Christian Gonzalez), although the Patriots moved on from move rusher Matt Judon. This crew is not able to compete for a playoff spot in Jerod Mayo’s first 12 months as head coach. 

Flooring: 2-15, miss playoffs

There possible will not be a whole lot of wins in New England this 12 months, because the Patriots could also be bracing for the worst. The perfect-case situation for the franchise could be if Maye can play properly at quarterback with the shortage of expertise surrounding him. New England has to construct this offense over the following few years if the Patriots consider Maye is the franchise quarterback. Maye’s rookie 12 months might be a tough one, which might have an effect on all the group. 

Ceiling: 9-8, miss playoffs

The Saints have been an enormous disappointment final season, not making the playoffs in a weak NFC South. In fact the division received higher, however the Saints did not. Klint Kubiak is modified with revamping the offense with Derek Carr underneath middle, seeking to construct off Carr’s robust end from final season. The Saints have good receivers in Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, however Alvin Kamara is 29 and coming off the least productive season of his profession. The offensive line can also be in a state of flux with rookie Tailese Fuaga and Trevor Penning on the sort out positions. A successful document looks like an accomplishment in 2024.

Flooring: 5-12, miss playoffs

It is laborious to take the Saints critically with Dennis Allen as a head coach. Allen is a wonderful protection coach and will get essentially the most out of an growing older unit that excels in situational soccer, however can Chase Younger (when he returns) assist out a mid-30s Cameron Jordan within the move rush? The Saints did not make a whole lot of strikes to get higher, needing Carr to have a superb 12 months to be aggressive within the NFC. This crew would not have a whole lot of expertise to make up for issues like in years previous. 

Ceiling: 7-10, miss playoffs

Profitable this many video games wouldn’t be finest for the Giants franchise, as Daniel Jones is actually in a lame duck 12 months because the quarterback. For the Giants to succeed, they want a franchise quarterback within the worst means. New York is hoping Jones can get competent quarterback play to get essentially the most out of Malik Nabers — who seems on the monitor to stardom. Including Brian Burns to a defensive position with Kayvon Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence provides the Giants among the best items within the league. The protection ought to be good, even with the coordinator change from Wink Martindale to Shane Bowen. The Giants should not be as unhealthy as they have been final 12 months. 

Flooring: 4-13, miss playoffs

Do not suppose a poor 12 months will put head coach Brian Daboll on the new seat, as his out would be the efficiency of Jones. Even when Jones is unhealthy, that offers Daboll a possibility to select and groom his personal quarterback. The Giants offensive line is healthier with Jon Runyan Jr. and Jermaine Eluemunor, however that line has been written earlier than with that unit. Will the secondary maintain up with Deonte Banks showing to be the one playmaker early within the 12 months? The Giants additionally do not have Saquon Barkley at operating again anymore, long-term transfer for the group however poor for competing for a playoff berth in 2024. New York is taking one step again to take two steps ahead on this rebuild. 

Ceiling: 12-5, win AFC East and attain convention championship recreation

The Jets by no means received to see how the Aaron Rodgers experiment would play out final season, as his season did not final 1 / 4 after struggling a ruptured Achilles. New York doubled down on Rodgers in 2024, including Mike Williams at extensive receiver and revamping the offensive line with John Simpson at guard, together with Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses at sort out. Rookie sort out Olu Fashanu may be among the best picks within the first spherical. Working again Breece Corridor and extensive receiver Garrett Wilson instantly are extra impactful with Rodgers round. The protection was superb final 12 months, with defensive sort out Quinnen Williams and cornerback Sauce Gardner anchoring the unit. This can be a superb roster that may compete for a Tremendous Bowl with Rodgers on the sphere. 

Flooring: 9-8, miss playoffs

How will a 40-year outdated Rodgers reply to an Achilles harm? If Rodgers will get injured once more, the Jets can no less than maintain the fort with Tyrod Taylor for just a few video games. Robert Saleh is the most important query mark on this crew, because the Jets additionally doubled down on Nathaniell Hackett calling performs for Rodgers. The teaching employees has loads of inquiries to reply, and the Jets are susceptible to not getting out of their very own means. This roster continues to be superb, however Rodgers returning to kind determines their season. 

Ceiling: 13-4, win NFC East and attain Tremendous Bowl

The Eagles have an offense that rivals any crew within the league. Working again Saquon Barkley is essentially the most gifted again Philadelphia has had in a decade and extensive receiver Jahan Dotson is the third wideout the Eagles badly wanted to enhance A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. The Eagles offensive line will nonetheless be an elite unit with out Jason Kelce and the secondary is revamped underneath defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, aided by the addition of C.J. Gardner-Johnson at security and rookie Quinyon Mitchell at cornerback. The Eagles seem primed to make one other Tremendous Bowl run. 

Flooring: 10-7, lose first playoff recreation

Are the issues from final season’s 1-6 collapse within the rearview mirror? Quarterback Jalen Hurts struggled in opposition to the blitz and has to show he can deal with that stress in an everyday season recreation. The move rush has some query marks with Bryce Huff and Nolan Smith. but the defensive inside ought to be a energy with Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. The well being of Barkley may also be one thing to observe. Even with the collapse, the Eagles received 11 video games in 2023. This roster has a whole lot of expertise.

Ceiling: 11-6, win playoff recreation

The Steelers had a quarterback battle all summer time, with Russell Wilson rising as a starter. Wilson has points scrambling from the pocket, however he led the league in completion share from contained in the pocket. Wilson or Justin Fields his an improve from final season. The Steelers have playmakers on offense, but want George Pickers to be that No. 1 extensive receiver. Arthur Smith as offensive coordinator can also be an improve. Linebacker Patrick Queen is one other playmaker on protection with move rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is a rising star with Minkah Fitzpatrick the highest playmaker within the secondary. Pittsburgh has sufficient expertise to outlive the AFC North. 

Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs

If Wilson is not ok at quarterback, can Fields salvage the season? How lengthy of a leash will the Steelers give Wilson? The offensive line added Troy Fautanu and Zach Frazier, but continues to be a piece in progress (which might be hassle for Wilson). With Brandon Aiyuk out of the image, do the Steelers have sufficient playmakers at receiver? The offense ought to be higher, however quarterback wasn’t the one challenge final 12 months. In a tricky AFC North, Pittsburgh would be the crew with essentially the most questions. This crew finds methods to have successful seasons, however they might have a shedding marketing campaign in 2024. 

Ceiling: 13-4, win Tremendous Bowl

The 49ers have been an additional time away from successful the championship final 12 months. Even with the Brandon Aiyuk drama this offseason, the 49ers did not commerce him and signed their star wideout to a long-term contract. San Francisco has among the best offenses within the NFL, and Brock Purdy proved his rookie season was removed from a fluke. Including Leonard Floyd to a defensive position with Nick Bosa and Javon Hargrave was probably the most underrated signings of the offseason, whereas De’Vondre Campbell ought to fill the void at linebacker till Dre Greenlaw returns. San Francisco is the crew to beat within the NFC and may win the Tremendous Bowl, however the hole is closing. 

Flooring: 11-6, lose first playoff recreation 

Offensive line is a priority with the 49ers now that the Aiyuk state of affairs is settled. If Trent Williams would not get a reworked deal, that is a gap San Francisco cannot patch up — affecting a unit that’s already the weak level on the roster. Is defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen an enchancment over Steve Wilks? Tremendous Bowl losses do have an effect on groups, simply ask the Eagles and Rams over the previous 5 years. The 49ers are nonetheless among the best groups within the NFL, however there are holes on this gifted roster. They want Williams again and to get his contract state of affairs settled. 

Ceiling: 10-7, lose in wild card spherical

The Seahawks are one of many harder groups to venture in 2024, due to new head coach Mike Macdonald and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. Macdonald is a wonderful defensive coach that ought to revolutionize Seattle’s unit, highlighted by the return of Leonard Williams at defensive sort out and Byron Murphy II on that defensive position. Linebacker Tyrel Dodson was an underrated signing, whereas security Rayshawn Jenkins will assist out a younger secondary with cornerbacks Tariq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon. Seattle has a powerful extensive receiver trio with D.Ok. Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba and good operating backs in Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet. There’s sufficient expertise to be a playoff crew. 

Flooring: 6-11, miss playoffs

Is Geno Smith in a lame duck 12 months at quarterback and is he the quarterback this teaching employees needs? Smith was turnover susceptible final season, which price the Seahawks a number of video games. The offensive line struggled all through final season, including guard Laken Tomlinson and middle Connor Williams to assist out the unit. Macdonald is an effective coach, however can he get this protection to above common in 12 months one? The Seahawks are a relative unknown and may go in a wide range of instructions this 12 months.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

Ceiling: 10-7, win NFC South

The Buccaneers have been a shock winner of the NFC South final season, the primary with out Tom Brady at quarterback. Baker Mayfield had a comeback season and was the rationale extensive receiver Mike Evans returned to Tampa Bay. Re-signing Evans, linebacker Lavonte Davis, and security Antoine Winfield was huge for Tampa Bay, as they retained all the celebrities that led them to the divisional spherical of the playoffs in 2023. The Buccaneers stored most issues at establishment, however this offseason was about retaining key gamers. Including Graham Barton within the first spherical was huge for the offensive line. 

Flooring: 8-9, miss playoffs

Mayfield misplaced an enormous a part of his success in Dave Canales, who remodeled Geno Smith the 12 months earlier than he received to Tampa Bay. Smith took a step again in 2023, so might the identical occur to Mayfield in 2024? Will Rachaad White take the following step as a operating again and is the offensive line ok on the guard spots to open up holes for him? The Buccaneers are an older crew and the NFC South is healthier with Atlanta being a official risk for the division. This division might solely have one playoff crew. 

Ceiling: 8-9, miss playoffs

There have been a whole lot of adjustments made in Tennessee to keep away from what occurred final season, spending cash to compete within the AFC South. Broad receivers Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd and operating again Tony Pollard are added ability place gamers to assist younger quarterback Will Levis, as Tennessee transitions to an offensive-based crew underneath new head coach Brian Callahan. Tennessee additionally added cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and safeties Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs reunited to present new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson a aggressive secondary. Cross rusher Harold Landry can also be again after lacking all of final 12 months, which is very large for Jeffery Simmons. This can be a remodeled roster with extra expertise and motive to suppose the Titans can be a lot better than final 12 months’s model. 

Flooring: 5-12, miss playoffs

The Titans nonetheless have an unknown at quarterback with Levis, who will get this 12 months to show he is the person for the job. There’s sufficient expertise on offense for Levis to succeed, however the consistency must match the effectiveness of his deep ball. Middle Lloyd Cushenberry and rookie offensive sort out J.C. Latham makes the offensive line higher, but is the entire unit ok? The Titans do not have a straightforward highway within the AFC South both — or the AFC usually. They want Levis to be good to have an opportunity. 

Ceiling: 8-9, miss playoffs

Loads of causes to be excited in Washington with Jayden Daniels having the keys to the offense in his rookie 12 months. Daniels can be a participant to observe each week, particularly since he gives a risk to get first downs on the bottom. Daniels will get a dependable wideout in Terry McLaurin and a promising rookie tight finish in Ben Sinnott to pair with Zach Ertz. Working again Austin Ekeler is in search of a bounce again 12 months as properly. Dan Quinn is charged with fixing a protection that was arguably the worst within the NFL final season. The Commanders could have a number of new starters on the revamped unit, with linebackers Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu vital upgrades from final 12 months. Issues are trying up in Washington. 

Flooring: 6-11, miss playoffs

The Commanders have improved, however that is nonetheless a rebuild. The secondary was the worst in soccer final 12 months and continues to be a piece in progress, particularly at cornerback. The move rush improved with Dorance Armstrong, but wants Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen to play at their 2022 ranges. The offensive line was poor final 12 months and Daniels could also be operating for his life, needing middle Tyler Biadasz to solidify it. This roster continues to be evolving, however the Commanders can be higher in Quinn’s first 12 months.