AFC East: Addressing Key Needs
Buffalo Bills: It’s Time to Get a True WR1
Analysis by Scott Pianowski
Despite Josh Allen’s MVP-worthy performance, the Buffalo Bills’ passing game lacked a true top-tier wide receiver. No receiver in the Bills’ WR room finished in the top 35 at year’s end. Rising sophomore Keon Coleman offers some promise, but the majority of the targets are capped-ceiling players. Allen’s potential would be significantly amplified with a dynamic field-stretcher. The Bills need to prioritize finding a receiver who can elevate the entire offense.
Miami Dolphins: Will the Offense Bounce Back?
The Miami Dolphins’ offense suffered a significant blow when Tua Tagovailoa sustained a concussion early in the season. To protect Tagovailoa, the team scaled back the downfield passing game, which led to a frustrating season for Tyreek Hill. Hill’s lack of deep receptions and Jaylen Waddle’s decrease in yards per catch (to 12.8) highlighted the need for a more aggressive offensive approach. Head coach Mike McDaniel must re-energize Hill and give Tagovailoa the freedom to take deep drops and aim for splash plays downfield.
New York Jets: Quarterback Remains the Biggest Problem
The Aaron Rodgers experiment seems to have ended, leaving the Jets without a clear quarterback. The team will explore every possible trade and draft option to fill the void. Additionally, the Jets need to address the underperformance of young talents like Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson. Wilson’s production may have been hindered by Rodgers’ established connection with Davante Adams. The team needs to reassess and potentially repair their relationship with Wilson.
New England Patriots: Build Around Drake Maye
The Patriots made a savvy choice with Drake Maye as their quarterback, and his rookie performance was noteworthy. However, the rest of the offense needs substantial upgrades. The offensive line resembled a tollbooth, and the wide receiver corps struggled. The team should focus on adding impact linemen and a reliable wide receiver. The decision to pass on Ladd McConkey in the second round of the draft continues to sting, as he could have been a significant addition.
AFC North: Addressing Critical Needs
Cincinnati Bengals: Stop Making Joe Burrow a Punching Bag
Andy Behrens
Joe Burrow was sacked 48 times last season, furthering his reputation as one of the most sacked quarterbacks in NFL history. The Bengals must prioritize improving their offensive line to protect Burrow. While the team’s offense is already strong with Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, ensuring long-term stability is crucial. The Bengals need to find ways to keep these receivers engaged and effective.
Cleveland Browns: Where Do You Start?
The Browns face a daunting task of filling significant gaps at quarterback, running back, and receiver with no available cap space. The team also has to deal with a disgruntled star pass rusher. Rebuilding after the disastrous trade will take time. The Browns need to use the draft to secure a quarterback of the future and a veteran caretaker for the 2025 season. Small, incremental improvements will be key in the short term.
Baltimore Ravens: Get Isaiah Likely in the Gameplan
The Ravens’ offense is already loaded, featuring top performers at quarterback, running back, and tight end. While adding another playmaking wideout would be beneficial, the team could significantly improve by consistently involving Isaiah Likely. Likely’s presence and usage can enhance the team’s already formidable offense.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Needs at 3 Major Offensive Positions
The Steelers are in a quarterback wilderness, with no clear path forward. Whether they opt for Russell Wilson or Justin Fields, neither option feels transformative. The team also needs to address the running back position, as Najee Harris heads into free agency. Additionally, adding a versatile wide receiver to complement George Pickens would greatly benefit the team. Cam Skattebo, if drafted, could be an instant icon and a valuable asset.
AFC South: Addressing Key Issues
Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson Needs to Take a Leap
Matt Harmon
Anthony Richardson’s development will be critical for the Colts. The team needs to see significant improvement in Richardson during the offseason. The Colts have a talented wide receiver room, but stable quarterback play is essential to maximize their potential. The team may add competition to push Richardson, and their approach will provide clues about their confidence in him.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Liam Coen’s Hiring Moves the Needle
Liam Coen’s hiring as offensive coordinator is a positive move for the Jaguars. Coen’s play-calling and design skills will be crucial in rebuilding the offensive line, similar to the Buccaneers’ approach in recent seasons. He specifically highlighted Brian Thomas Jr.’s versatility, and fans are excited to see how he integrates into the new offense.
Houston Texans: The Team Needs More Wide Receivers
The Texans need to rebuild their offensive line and add more wide receivers. The arrival of a new system and potential new talent will be crucial for the development of players like C.J. Stroud, Joe Mixon, and Nico Collins. The team may pursue multiple additions in the wide receiver room, with Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell as potential targets. The right complement to Collins could be a significant fantasy winner.
Tennessee Titans: It’s Time to Get Serious at Quarterback
The Titans are in a challenging position with the first overall pick in a draft that lacks a consensus top passer. They cannot afford to run into the next season with a quarterback tandem like Will Levis and Mason Rudolph. With a new GM in place and Brian Callahan having more influence, the team is expected to add multiple quarterback options. Whether these additions are impactful remains to be seen.
AFC West: Addressing Critical Positions
Kansas City Chiefs: Determine Isiah Pacheco’s Health
Dalton Del Don
Isiah Pacheco’s health is a critical factor for the Chiefs’ backfield. After returning from a fractured fibula, Pacheco lost the lead-back role to Kareem Hunt. With Hunt set to become an unrestricted free agent, the Chiefs’ roster moves will reveal their confidence in Pacheco’s health and 2025 outlook. The team’s approach will be a key indicator of their plans for the running back position.
Denver Broncos: Find a New Starting Running Back
Javonte Williams has not fully recovered from multi-ligament knee surgery and is an unrestricted free agent. The Broncos have a thin depth chart, making it essential to find a new feature back. A productive Sean Payton offense could provide top-10 fantasy RB upside for the new running back, whether through the draft or free agency.
Los Angeles Chargers: Also Find a New Starting Running Back
J.K. Dobbins’ return from a major injury was a highlight, but he has never reached 200 carries in a season and is an unrestricted free agent entering 2025. The Chargers will prioritize addressing the running back position to maintain a strong running game. The next lead back will be a significant difference-maker in fantasy.
Las Vegas Raiders: Find a Starting Quarterback
The Raiders’ fantasy outlook hinges on acquiring a capable quarterback, which remains their top position of need. The team could make a move in the draft or through free agency. Fantasy managers are eager for the Raiders to pair Brock Bowers with a strong quarterback. Bowers has top-10 overall fantasy upside, but his rookie season saw modest touchdown production. Upgrading the quarterback position would move the needle significantly.
