With the bulk of free agency now behind us, NFL teams are shifting their focus to the 2024 NFL Draft to fill remaining roster holes. The NFC landscape has changed with big signings, trades, and retirements, but every team still has key needs to address. Here’s a breakdown of each NFC team’s biggest draft priorities.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys – Offensive Line, Running Back, Defensive Tackle
The Cowboys lost key offensive linemen in free agency, making left guard and right tackle priority positions in the draft. Tony Pollard’s departure also leaves a hole at running back. Defensively, a strong interior lineman could help solidify the front seven.
Philadelphia Eagles – Cornerback, Linebacker, Safety
The Eagles’ secondary struggled in 2023, and with Darius Slay and James Bradberry aging, they must invest in young cornerbacks. Linebacker depth remains an issue, and they need an upgrade at safety after losing key contributors.
New York Giants – Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Offensive Line
With uncertainty surrounding Daniel Jones, the Giants could take a quarterback early. They also need a true No. 1 wide receiver and more offensive line reinforcements to protect whoever lines up under center.
Washington Commanders – Quarterback, Offensive Line, Edge Rusher
Despite signing Marcus Mariota, the Commanders need a long-term answer at quarterback. Protecting that future QB requires offensive line upgrades, and adding a pass rusher will help their defensive rebuild.
NFC North
Detroit Lions – Cornerback, Defensive Tackle, Wide Receiver
Detroit’s secondary remains the biggest concern, so drafting a top-tier corner is crucial. They also need a dominant interior defensive lineman and a third wide receiver to complement Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.
Minnesota Vikings – Quarterback, Defensive Line, Cornerback
With Kirk Cousins gone, Minnesota must find their franchise quarterback. They also need pass-rush help after losing Danielle Hunter and must reinforce a shaky secondary.
Green Bay Packers – Offensive Tackle, Safety, Linebacker
Jordan Love showed promise, but the Packers must bolster the offensive line. Safety remains a weak spot, and they need more depth at linebacker to improve their run defense.
Chicago Bears – Quarterback, Edge Rusher, Wide Receiver
The Bears will likely take a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick, but they also need a pass rusher and another receiver to pair with D.J. Moore and newly acquired Keenan Allen.
NFC South
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Cornerback, Edge Rusher, Offensive Line
The Bucs must rebuild their secondary and add more pass-rushing talent. The offensive line also needs reinforcements after a few key departures.
New Orleans Saints – Offensive Line, Wide Receiver, Defensive Tackle
Derek Carr needs better protection, making offensive tackle a priority. A long-term wide receiver alongside Chris Olave is another need, and they could use a big-body defensive lineman.
Atlanta Falcons – Edge Rusher, Wide Receiver, Quarterback Depth
Atlanta’s defense improved in 2023 but still needs more pass-rushing firepower. Adding another playmaker for their new QB, Kirk Cousins, and a developmental backup could be smart moves.
Carolina Panthers – Wide Receiver, Offensive Line, Edge Rusher
Bryce Young needs weapons, making receiver the top priority. They also need better pass protection and more defensive pressure from the edge.
NFC West
San Francisco 49ers – Offensive Line, Cornerback, Defensive End
With Trent Williams aging, the 49ers must invest in the offensive line. A young cornerback is needed to bolster the secondary, and more depth on the defensive front is necessary.
Seattle Seahawks – Defensive Line, Offensive Guard, Quarterback
Seattle’s defense needs an interior disruptor, and their offensive line must improve. They could also look at a young quarterback to groom behind Geno Smith.
Los Angeles Rams – Edge Rusher, Cornerback, Offensive Line
The Rams need a dominant pass rusher to replace Aaron Donald. They also need help in the secondary and reinforcements along the offensive line.
Arizona Cardinals – Wide Receiver, Defensive Line, Cornerback
The Cardinals should prioritize a receiver for Kyler Murray, a dominant defensive lineman, and a young cornerback to improve their struggling defense.
Final Thoughts
The NFC teams have addressed several needs in free agency, but the draft remains crucial for filling remaining gaps. Expect teams to focus on quarterback, offensive line, and defensive reinforcements as they prepare for the 2024 season.
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