Biggest remaining offseason priority for each NFC team: Payday coming for…
The bulk of the 2024 offseason is behind us, as most top free agents have found teams and the draft is over. Yet, before the ’24 NFL season begins on Sept. 5, there are still important tasks for each team to handle. Kevin Patra highlights the primary remaining offseason concern for each NFC team below. Stay tuned for his assessment of the AFC teams’ priorities, coming this Friday.
Last season, the Cardinals heavily relied on first-year players, making them the sole team with rookies accumulating over 2,000 snaps on both offense and defense. As they enter the second year of their rebuilding phase, rookies will once again shoulder significant responsibilities. Marvin Harrison Jr. steps into a WR1 role straight from the 2024 NFL Draft, while running back Trey Benson is expected to take snaps from James Conner. On defense, key roles will be filled by youngsters like first-round pick Darius Robinson on the frontline and second-round selection Max Melton in the secondary. With much of their secondary depth comprised of rookies, the Cardinals must prepare for potential injuries by identifying which rookies and second-year players Jonathan Gannon and his coaching staff can rely on. Their performance will determine whether Arizona remains a year away from competitiveness or can contend in the NFC West.
We could endlessly discuss the Falcons’ quarterback dilemma, especially since they surprised many by drafting Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall in April, despite already investing in Kirk Cousins earlier in the offseason. However, it will take years to fully understand the ramifications of that decision. Instead of revisiting that debate, let’s focus on a more immediate concern for the 2024 Falcons.
Since his impressive rookie season with 1,026 yards, Kyle Pitts has faced challenges. Over the past two seasons, he has amassed only 1,023 yards on 81 catches with five touchdowns. Pitts has struggled with physicality in traffic and missed opportunities for yards after the catch. Was his decline simply a result of subpar quarterback play? The Falcons have bolstered their receiving corps with additions like Darnell Mooney and Rondale Moore to complement top receiver Drake London. However, for the offense to reach its full potential, Pitts must exploit matchups against linebackers and safeties.
Given Kirk Cousins’ history of utilizing tight ends effectively, Pitts should have ample opportunities to showcase his talent and dispel any concerns about his production being a reflection of his skill or focus.
