Ze gingen met veel tamtam de NFL binnen en hadden hoge verwachtingen dat ze ooit zouden behoren tot de beste verzameling talenten die de NFL op hun positie had gezien. Maar slechts drie jaar later lijkt de quarterback-draftklasse van 2021 grotendeels op één grote mislukking.

Terwijl NFL-teams hun beoordeling van een andere veelgeprezen groep quarterbacks voortzetten in de aanloop naar de draft van april, werden twee van de vijf QB’s die in de eerste ronde van 2021 waren opgesteld (Justin Fields en Mac Jones) slechts geruild voor een schamele compensatie. Een derde (Trey Lance) bereidt zich voor om jaar 2 in te gaan als back-up voor zijn tweede team. En een vierde (Zach Wilson) gaat een onzekere toekomst tegemoet in de NFL.

Trevor Lawrence – de nummer 1 keuze – is de enige quarterback uit de eerste ronde van 2021 die nog steeds wordt gezien als het antwoord voor zijn tekenteam, de Jacksonville Jaguars. Maar zelfs Lawrence moet nog uitgroeien tot een transformerende ster. Ondertussen is Wilson duidelijk in zijn laatste dagen bij de New York Jets, die hem zullen ruilen of afsnijden. Lance is een back-up voor de Cowboys, verhandeld naar Dallas nadat Brock Purdy het overnam als leider van de aanval van San Francisco. Fields is zojuist verscheept van Chicago naar Pittsburgh. En de Patriotten gaven Jones in wezen aan de Jaguars, die hem zullen gebruiken als Lawrence’s back-up.

In plaats van te wedijveren met de draftklasse uit 1983 van Hall of Famers John Elway, Jim Kelly en Dan Marino, zal de QB-klasse uit 2021 in plaats daarvan dienen als een waarschuwend voorbeeld over hoe vaak teams missen als het gaat om talentevaluaties, projecties en ontwikkelingsplannen.

Maar wat ging er mis? Waarom zitten deze ooit aangekondigde quarterbacks nog steeds vast in ontwikkelingsfasen en/of grenzen ze aan het failliete gebied?

Een onderzoek van elke situatie brengt enkele gemeenschappelijke thema’s en antwoorden aan het licht.

Lawrence en de Jaguars

Lawrence heeft nog niet de elitestatus bereikt, maar hij komt het dichtst in de buurt van een franchise-quarterback die dit stel heeft opgeleverd. Hij is 20-30 als starter met 58 touchdownpassen, 39 onderscheppingen en een voltooiingspercentage van 63,8. Zijn enige winnende seizoen (9-8 in 2022) leverde een playoff-optreden op (Jacksonville werd 1-1 in het ‘postseason’) en een Pro Bowl-selectie nadat hij slaagde voor 4.113 yards, 25 touchdowns en slechts acht onderscheppingen. Lawrence en de Jaguars deden in 2023 echter een kleine stap achteruit de play-offs gemist na een op en neer jaar dat eindigde met een 1-5 slip.

Hoewel Lawrence worstelde met consistentie, denken de meeste NFL-talentbeoordelaars nog steeds dat hij veelbelovend is. Ze geloven dat zijn ontwikkeling werd belemmerd door een rookieseizoen dat werd gekenmerkt door disfunctie en toxiciteit onder Urban Meyer, die werd ontslagen na een start van 2-11. De Jaguars vervingen hem door Doug Pederson, die goed was voor Lawrence, hoewel enkele van de nauwkeurigheidsproblemen die de QB op de universiteit vertoonde tegen DB’s van het hoogste niveau (zie met name de LSU- en Alabama-matchups) hem naar de NFL zijn gevolgd. Lawrence speelde in 2023 ook een aantal blessures. Gezondheid en nog een seizoen in het systeem van Pederson zouden zijn ontwikkeling moeten bevorderen, maar de Jaguars moeten ook een hoogwaardige nummer 1-ontvanger vinden om Calvin Ridley te vervangen om de 24-jarige Lawrence verder te helpen.

Zach Wilson wordt waarschijnlijk ontslagen als de Jets geen ruil voor hem kunnen regelen. (Jasen Vinlove / USA Today)

Wilson en de Jets

Wilson’s voorontwerptrainingen en collegegamefilm toonden zijn ontsnappingsvermogen en een improvisatie-tovenarij die talentbeoordelaars aan Aaron Rodgers deed denken. Maar BYU werd in 2020 niet geconfronteerd met toptalent en concurreerde met scholen van Conference USA, American Athletic, Sun Belt en Mountain West-conferenties, en de sprong naar de NFL bleek veel steiler voor de nummer 2-keuze dan de Jets ooit hadden gedacht.

Wilsons drie Jets-seizoenen waren een ramp. Hij is 12-21 als starter met 23 touchdownpassen, 25 onderscheppingen en een voltooiingspercentage van 57,0, plus meerdere benchings. Achteraf gezien had Wilson nooit zo vroeg in de draft moeten gaan als hij, en moest hij ook achter een ervaren starter zitten om zowel mentaal als fysiek geleidelijk te leren en zich te ontwikkelen.

Wilson staat nu voor een onzekere toekomst. De Jets proberen hem te ruilen nadat hij opnieuw moeite had als starter na Rodgers’ achillesblessure die het seizoen eindigde in week 1. En hoewel de eerste week van free agency behoorlijk wat quarterback-bewegingen kende, is Wilsons naam niet eens aan elkaar gekoppeld. aan teams in geruchten over mogelijke deals. Als Wilson wordt geschrapt, denken sommige rivaliserende talentbeoordelaars dat iemand een vlieger op hem zal afzetten als back-up-/terugwinningsproject.

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Lance en de 49ers

San Francisco wist dat Lance een project zou zijn: de quarterback kwam uit de staat North Dakota met slechts één volledig seizoen aan ervaring (2019) nadat COVID-19 hem beroofde van een volledige juniorcampagne. Toch achtten de 49ers Lance het waard om van nummer 12 te wisselen en hem derde te maken in het algemeen klassement.

Na een seizoen achter Jimmy Garoppolo ging Lance 2022 in als starter van San Francisco, grotendeels dankzij het feit dat Garoppolo nog steeds herstellende was van een schouderoperatie buiten het seizoen. Maar in twee wedstrijden voltooide Lance slechts 15 van de 31 passes (48,4 procent) voor 194 yards, geen touchdowns en een onderschepping voordat hij een enkelbreuk opliep en de rest van het seizoen miste. De opkomst van Purdy later datzelfde seizoen, in combinatie met Lance’s voortdurende ontwikkelingsstrijd in het laagseizoen en het trainingskamp van 2023, zorgde ervoor dat de 49ers hun geduld verloren. Ze ruilden Lance naar Dallas voor een keuze in de vierde ronde, en Lance bracht het hele seizoen door als de derde quarterback van de Cowboys, zonder een moment te nemen.

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De 49ers hadden een grove fout gemaakt in hun beoordeling van Lance, die uiteindelijk veel rauwer bleek te zijn, minder dynamisch als atleet en lang niet zo natuurlijk als werper als ze dachten. Dat wil niet zeggen dat Lance zich op een dag niet kan ontwikkelen tot een kwalitatieve NFL-quarterback. Maar de 49ers bevonden zich in een urgente situatie toen ze probeerden te profiteren van de kansen die ze hadden met een selectie die klaar was voor het kampioenschap. Teamofficials besloten uiteindelijk dat ze geen tijd hadden om te wachten tot Lance zich zou ontwikkelen, en kozen Sam Darnold als hun nummer 2 quarterback, omdat ze Lance vervangbaar achtten.

Purdy (de laatste keuze van het ontwerp van 2022) overtrof de verwachtingen zo dramatisch dat hij de potentieel verlammende misrekeningen van Lance door San Francisco General Manager John Lynch en coach Kyle Shanahan compenseerde. Ondertussen zou het vermogen om te leren van Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott zonder de last van verwachtingen en een tikkende klok op de lange termijn het beste kunnen zijn voor de ontwikkeling van Lance.

Velden en de beren

Fields bracht één seizoen door onder Matt Nagy, die na die 6-11-campagne werd ontslagen, en moest daarna opnieuw beginnen onder Matt Eberflus en aanvallende coördinator Luke Getsy. Eberflus en Getsy veranderden Fields (de nr. 11 keuze) in een veel meer rennende quarterback dan hij ooit was bij Ohio State, en Fields bleek dynamisch als een rusher. Hij sloot de campagne van 2022 af met 1.143 meeslepende yards en voegde zich bij Michael Vick en Lamar Jackson als de enige quarterbacks die zich in een seizoen naar 1.000 yards haastten. Fields was echter veel minder dynamisch als passer en gooide voor slechts 2.242 yards, 17 touchdowns en 11 onderscheppingen, terwijl hij de NFL leidde in zakken (55) en onhandige pogingen (16). De voortdurend slechte staat van de aanvalslinie van Chicago speelde ook een rol in de strijd van Fields.

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Fields boekte gematigde verbeteringen in jaar 3, maar miste nog steeds consistentie als passer. Fields heeft schijnbaar moeite om het veld goed te zien, en rivaliserende scouts en coaches vragen zich af of hij zich ooit echt op zijn gemak voelde in het systeem van Chicago. Uiteindelijk was Fields het product van een slecht ontwikkelingsplan en had hij nooit het voordeel dat hij speelde voor coaches die echt in hem geloofden of een goed begrip hadden van hoe een aanval op zijn sterke punten kon worden afgestemd. Eberflus ontsloeg Getsy na het seizoen 2023, maar de verhuizing kwam te laat voor Fields, die de Bears zaterdag ruilden tegen de Steelers. Van Chicago wordt verwacht dat hij USC-quarterback Caleb Williams als nummer 1-keuze zal opstellen.

Een reset is waarschijnlijk het beste voor Fields. Hij begint zijn Steelers-hoofdstuk als back-up van Russell Wilson, een voormalig Super Bowl-kampioen die Fields kan helpen de defensieve concepten van de NFL verder te begrijpen en hoe hij zijn mobiliteit kan gebruiken als hulpmiddel om het spel uit te breiden, terwijl hij werkt aan het verder verfijnen van zijn passingsvaardigheden.

Jones hielp Alabama een nationaal kampioenschap te winnen, maar werd nooit gezien als een dynamische NFL-prospect. Het spelen voor Nick Saban bereidde hem misschien beter voor op het professionele spel, maar Jones werd door veel talentbeoordelaars beschouwd als iemand met het laagste plafond van zijn mede-quarterbacks in de eerste ronde vanwege de gemiddelde fysieke gaven.

Jones, 15e genomen door New England, had een solide rookieseizoen. Hij versloeg Cam Newton voor de startbaan en slaagde voor 3.801 yards, 22 touchdowns en 13 onderscheppingen, waarmee hij de Patriots hielp met 10-7 te gaan en de play-offs te bereiken. Maar hij ging achteruit in jaar 2 nadat Josh McDaniels zijn baan als aanvallende coördinator van New England had verlaten om de Raiders te coachen. Bill Belichick schakelde vervolgens de voormalige defensieve coördinator Matt Patricia en de voormalige coördinator van de speciale teams Joe Judge in om de aanval te leiden in plaats van Jones een echte aanvallende coördinator te geven. De legendarische hoofdcoach/roosterarchitect slaagde er ook niet in de vaardigheden van de Patriots voldoende te versterken. Ondanks de aanwerving van Bill O’Brien als aanvallende coördinator bij het ingaan van Jones’ derde seizoen, slaagde de quarterback er nooit in zijn effectiviteit te herwinnen en werd hij af en toe op de bank gezet terwijl hij als starter met 2-9 scoorde.

De situatie van Jones is een perfect voorbeeld van teammismanagement. Ondanks zijn beperkingen (gemiddelde armkracht en atletisch vermogen), blonk hij uit op de universiteit, terwijl hij omringd werd door superieur talent dat de druk op hem hielp verlichten. Hij slaagde als NFL-groentje omdat de zeer creatieve McDaniels begreep hoe hij zijn tekortkomingen het beste kon maskeren en hem voor succes kon positioneren. Belichick dacht dwaas dat Patricia en Judge hetzelfde konden doen. Zonder de aanstootgevende tovenarij van McDaniels en het ontbreken van een getalenteerde ondersteunende cast stortte Jones met beide benen op de grond. Nu is hij in Jacksonville als Lawrence’s back-up – een rol die het beste bij zijn vaardigheden past.

Over vijf weken zal de volgende lichting quarterbacks van de sterrenuniversiteit met veel tamtam de NFL betreden en in de verwachting dat ze het fortuin zullen veranderen van de teams die knappe draft-keuzes zullen investeren om ze te verwerven. Van de Bears en Patriots – respectievelijk de eigenaren van de eerste en derde keuze van de draft – wordt verwacht dat ze opnieuw hun best zullen doen om een ​​franchise-quarterback te vinden. De Commanders, Vikingen, Raiders en Broncos konden ook quarterbacks opstellen.

Hun succes zal grotendeels afhangen van het vermogen om de fouten te vermijden die zijn gemaakt door de Jets, 49ers, Bears, Patriots en zoveel andere teams vóór hen: slechte talentprojectie, overgewaardeerde vooruitzichten en het onvermogen om de quarterbacks te voorzien van adequate coaching of roosterondersteuning.

(Topfoto’s van Trey Lance, Justin Fields en Mac Jones: Christian Petersen, Michael Reaves en Chris Unger / Getty Images)

The three biggest names in the quarterback market were taken off the board within 24 hours at the dawn of free agency, as Kirk Cousins, Baker Mayfield and Russell Wilson evaluated their markets and capitalized on their opportunities.

They all had different priorities at unique stages of their careers. And as they quickly secured their next contracts, the veteran trio also helped shape the QB market for the remainder of the offseason.

Mayfield started the chain reaction Sunday afternoon when he agreed to a three-year, $100 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Wilson agreed to a one-year deal with the league minimum of $1.2 million on Sunday night with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Cousins ​​capped it off Monday afternoon when he signed a four-year, $180 million pact with the Atlanta Falcons.

While the moves and financial parameters were unique, they were also somewhat connected when they came together, according to at least a half-dozen sources with direct knowledge of the situations.

Mayfield had the best season of his career in his first-round pick with the Bucs, and the 28-year-old wanted to stay in Tampa after bouncing around the league for a few years. He has had eight head coaches and seven offensive coordinators while playing for four teams in his first six seasons, so continuity has been a goal of his for some time, league sources say.

Mayfield appreciated the way the Bucs set him up for success last season, not only with former offensive coordinator Dave Canales, but also with coach Todd Bowles’ leadership and the culture of the veterans around the building. And while Canales left for Carolina, Mayfield is somewhat familiar with new offensive coordinator Liam Coen from their month together with the Los Angeles Rams in 2022.

The Bucs and Mayfield accelerated negotiations last week, and over the weekend they intensified with a series of offers and counter-offers. For Mayfield and that desire for continuity, the guaranteed money in the second year of the deal was especially important from a job security perspective.

He got $40 million fully guaranteed, with $30 million in 2024 and another $10 million in 2025, plus another $10 million for injuries. So as long as he plays well, Mayfield should be back with the Buccaneers in 2025. But if the Bucs decide to part ways after the 2024 season, he will have earned $40 million for his services.

Last month, league officials believed Mayfield could view New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones’ four-year, $160 million contract as a similar deal. And perhaps, if Mayfield had wanted to push his free agency in on Monday when the NFL negotiating window opened, he might have been able to find a deal with more total money.

But that’s not as easy as it sounds. Over the weekend, people around the league believed that Cousins ​​would choose between the Falcons and Minnesota Vikings, leaving the losing team and the Buccaneers alone in a competition for Mayfield. But the hypothetical risk of that strategy could have led to the Vikings offering a low number and the Buccaneers withdrawing their best offer. And while the New England Patriots were high on Mayfield internally, a union between the sides simply didn’t make sense — once again, Mayfield left behind two potential suitors with the right cap space to make a good offer and the personnel to challenge for a division title.

Ultimately, Mayfield wanted to return to the Bucs. He received an offer that should provide him with security for at least two years and he accepted it.

The best chance to start

Wilson’s situation was very different from Mayfield’s. The Denver Broncos will officially release him on Wednesday at the start of the new league year, but they informed him of that decision last week and allowed him to visit with teams in the meantime.

Then there was the wildcard with the economy. The Broncos are still dependent on Wilson’s $39 million salary in 2024, which is significantly more than he could have gotten in free agency. So Wilson informed the teams that he would play for the minimum — with the Broncos picking up the balance of the account — so they could use their cap space elsewhere.

Wilson had two quality meetings with the Giants and Steelers. Both were considered exploratory sessions and they got a sense of their vision for the offense and Wilson’s goals for the season.

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The Giants made no guarantees about playing time, as Jones is expected to start once he is cleared of his torn ACL. As for the Steelers, who benched Kenny Pickett in the 2022 first-round pick last season, Wilson has a very realistic path to a starting job for a team that has consistently been in the playoff mix in coach Mike’s 17 seasons Tomlin never finished below .500.

Wilson met Friday with Steelers decision makers, including Tomlin, offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and general manager Omar Khan. With Tomlin and Smith, the offense should again be physical with a strong ground game and provide plenty of opportunities for Wilson to throw the deep ball, assuming he wins the lane.

Wilson put together a better season in 2023 before the Broncos benched him in December, in part to ensure injury wouldn’t further complicate their offseason decision with the quarterback. If the 35-year-old can maintain that trajectory, he will increase his chances of a more lucrative payday in 2025, whether that be in Pittsburgh or elsewhere.

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A two-team race for Cousins?

Cousins, despite coming off a torn Achilles tendon, was the central figure in the quarterback carousel, and he had indeed established himself in Atlanta and Minnesota, where he played from 2018 to 2023. If any of those options fell by the wayside and financial offers plummeted, a league source said the Broncos likely would have become involved.

But dwindling offers haven’t been an issue as the Falcons and Vikings push hard for Cousins, who is guaranteed $90 million in the first two years of the deal. Cousins ​​had previously crossed paths in Washington with new Falcons coach Raheem Morris, and quarterback should be a quick study with offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, whose principles are similar to those of Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell from their days along with the Rams.

It’s been an eventful first day of NFL free agency!

Which team made the best move? pic.twitter.com/s9LP5GjdCI

— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) March 12, 2024

The Falcons have also put together a better roster in recent years, and the arrival of Cousins ​​should help them compete for the NFC South title and a playoff spot. They have a strong running game, an improving offensive line and attractive pass catchers in Drake London and Kyle Pitts.

It was a perfect recipe for Cousins, who turns 36 early next season.

The Vikings tried to keep Cousins, but they also knew it was important to prepare for the future at the position and couldn’t make the same financial commitment. So when the Falcons upped their offer, given the appeal of the roster and coaching staff, it all came together for Cousins.

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The remaining QB market

There are still some moving pieces left. The Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders and Patriots have the first three picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, and indications are that each team will take a quarterback, with USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye and LSU’s Jayden Daniels among the expected candidates.

That essentially left only the Vikings, Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders with openings. The Raiders agreed to a two-year, $15 million deal with Gardner Minshew that could be worth up to $25 million, and he will compete with Aidan O’Connell. The Broncos still have Jarrett Stidham, while the Vikings appear to be starting over.

With Jacoby Brissett rejoining the Patriots, the free agent market is being highlighted by Sam Darnold, Joe Flacco and Ryan Tannehill. It still feels inevitable that the Raiders will release Jimmy Garoppolo, and the Bears should still want to trade Justin Fields. It’s conceivable that the Commanders could move Sam Howell, and the Jets are expected to part ways with Zach Wilson in some capacity.

With deals completed for Mayfield, Russell Wilson and Cousins, there is one final fascinating element in play. The final three teams in need of quarterback reinforcements – the Vikings, Broncos and Raiders, respectively – are ranked Nos. 11-13 in the draft. They could compete again for Michigan’s JJ McCarthy or perhaps even Oregon’s Bo Nix and Washington’s Michael Penix.

The veteran trio set the tone for more fireworks on the quarterback front over the next two months.

(Photos by Baker Mayfield, Kirk Cousins ​​​​and Russell Wilson:
Todd Rosenberg, Stephen Maturen and Cooper Neill / Getty Images)

One thing you can’t accuse the Pittsburgh Steelers of anymore is being conservative. Or that they’re not doing everything they can to put themselves in a position to win championships.

That’s pretty clear after they wooed and convinced Russell Wilson to join a team whose general manager, Omar Khan, said less than two weeks ago that he had “complete confidence” in incumbent quarterback Kenny Pickett and that he wanted to re-sign the free agent quarterback. Mason Rudolph, who surprisingly led Pittsburgh to the 2023 playoffs.

Bringing Wilson on board isn’t conservative, even if it is financially: the Broncos will pay just under $38 million of his $39 million guaranteed salary. This move shows that the Steelers will do whatever it takes to win now, even if there is only an outside chance that the 35-year-old (who had a .386 winning percentage over the past three seasons) will ever return to his championship ways .

It does not matter. Win now and worry about later some other time. Wilson undoubtedly shows that the Steelers are thinking win-now when it comes to quarterback play.

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He was 11-19 in two seasons with the Broncos after spending a decade with Seattle. He bounced back from a miserable 2022 season to throw for 3,070 yards, 26 touchdowns and just eight interceptions in 2023.

Wilson still lost his job after going 7-8 in coach Sean Payton’s first season. He led the Broncos to consecutive wins over Green Bay, Kansas City, Buffalo, Minnesota and Cleveland, but lost three of his last four before being benched.

Year 13. Thankful. @Steelers pic.twitter.com/0U4Q2sRtXs

— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) March 11, 2024

But there are consequences to what certainly looks like a low-risk, no-loss situation for Pittsburgh.

By signing Wilson, the Steelers begin the process of finding a franchise quarterback again.

You don’t bring in a nine-time Pro Bowler, or better yet, a former Super Bowl champion with a cheap price tag to compete with a third-year quarterback who has thrown for just 13 touchdowns in 24 career starts, as Pickett has done.

The catch is that there is no guarantee that Wilson, who agreed to a one-year deal, will be with the Steelers in 2025. Maybe he plays so well that he can make more money in free agency, or maybe he fails miserably. like he did two years ago and the Steelers don’t want him back.

This screams for a year-long experiment.

Even if Wilson plays well, he’ll be 36 in November. How much confidence do you have in a quarterback not named Tom Brady, Peyton Manning or John Elway winning a Super Bowl at that age?

And do you think the Steelers are really just a quarterback away from a championship?

That doesn’t mean this is the wrong decision. Given the way Pickett has played, his lack of development in his second season and the team’s apparent lack of confidence in Rudolph, this is a no-brainer signing – a no-brainer with consequences.

It’s about what you value.

Would you rather have the opportunity to be more competitive with a Hall of Fame-caliber quarterback late in his career? Or give the 20th pick in the 2022 draft — a guy the Steelers spoke highly of for the better part of 18 months — another year with a competent coordinator and a new position coach?

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If you say try to win now and damn it, with all the consequences, then the answer is Wilson.

If you say you’re not interested in a deck of possible quarterbacks of the future, the answer is Pickett, or whoever they bring in or draft next year. The best-case scenario is drafting a quarterback in 2025 and developing him, which will take you to at least 2027 before you know if you have the quarterback of the future.

You can deal with 2027 or even later if Wilson leads the Steelers to a championship. But seriously, what are the chances of that happening?

They have to be extreme.

A lot of things need to happen for the Steelers — besides Wilson playing well — before they can win a Super Bowl this season. Just look at the AFC, with Josh Allen, Aaron Rodgers, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, CJ Stroud, Justin Herbert and, oh yeah, Patrick Mahomes to deal with.

Rudolph will likely sign elsewhere, and make no mistake, Pickett’s career as a Pittsburgh Steeler is all but over. The Steelers must decide on Pickett’s fifth-year option next May. I suppose a colossal Wilson failure combined with a late-season push from Pickett could change the youngster’s trajectory, but that’s a lot to ask.

Wilson’s signing was as much about his play as his salary.

It’s not often you get a $40 million quarterback for $1.21 million, so it’s understandable why the Steelers played coy on Wilson until news of his impending release became official and he was allowed to negotiate with other teams before his release.

Call it what it is: a calculated gamble… a calculated gamble that alienated two quarterbacks in the process.

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Losing Pickett doesn’t seem like a big deal right now, but it could be.

He didn’t get many opportunities during his rookie season, taking almost all of the third-team reps until just before the season. He was then thrown into the game for fourteen quarters of his career, with Matt Canada as his offensive coordinator and a directive from above to stifle the offense. Pickett’s relative success in that environment was a shock.

Last season was a total disaster the day after preseason ended, and you can’t help but think Canada had a lot to do with that. If his offense wasn’t suited to a Hall of Famer like Ben Roethlisberger, how could Pickett succeed?

Pickett couldn’t, and he didn’t. I get it, I understand.

But that would all change this year, with Arthur Smith leading the offense and Tom Arth bringing the knowledge he passed on to Herbert with the Chargers.

That will not happen. When you think of Pickett, there will always be a “What if?” are.

What if the Steelers didn’t keep Canada after the 2022 season? What if Pickett was given a third year to develop? Those questions will never be answered now.

All Wilson’s signing will do is create a revolving door at quarterback with no end in sight.

The only thing that will make this worth it is winning a Super Bowl, because when the Steelers decided to sign Wilson, they ensured they wouldn’t have a stable quarterback position for years to come.

If you agree to these consequences, let’s ride… or should I say #HereWeGo?

(Photo: Harry Hoe/Getty Images)

INDIANAPOLIS – For the second consecutive year, the NFL Players Association has announced its results team-by-team report cardswhich assess players’ working conditions and environments throughout their seasons and off-seasons.

The Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars rounded out the top five in overall grades.

Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders received the lowest marks in the league for the second straight season, while the repeating Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs finished 31st overall. The Los Angeles Chargers (30th), New England Patriots (29th) and Pittsburgh Steelers (28th) round out the bottom five.

Team classes include their training room, training staff, weight room, strength coaches, team travel, head coach and ownership. Owners were rated based on players’ beliefs that their ownership groups operate with a willingness to invest in team facilities.

The survey data was collected from August to November of the 2023 season. A total of 1,750 players (compared to approximately 1,300 participants in 2022) participated in the survey. NFLPA leaders said they were encouraged by the increase in participation this year. About 77 percent of all NFL players participated in the survey. Players were instructed to rate their teams and from there the numbers were added up and ranked.

The player team report cards are back. Last year’s report cards helped players feel more informed about their workplace and this year several new categories have been added, including Head Coach, Owner + Dietitian/Nutritionist.
Take a look here: https://t.co/RV0ZNDNb2h. pic.twitter.com/vfEv6A7d2s

— NFLPA (@NFLPA) February 28, 2024

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers received an F for team travel, largely because players with four seasons or less and non-starters must have roommates on road trips and pay $1,750 per player if they want their own room.

The Chiefs received low marks due to player frustrations after the owner promised to upgrade the outdated locker room.

However, for the second straight year, Clark Hunt and Kansas City made no upgrades to the locker room other than replacing the stools players were given to sit on in front of their lockers with back-on seats. Chiefs players were told there was no time to adequately upgrade the team’s facilities as their season was extended into February due to their 2022 Super Bowl run.

Kansas City tied for first with the Detroit Lions and Vikings in head coaching rankings. Andy Reid, Dan Campbell and Kevin O’Connell each received an A-plus grade. The coach who received the lowest grade was Josh McDaniels, whom the Las Vegas Raiders fired during the season.

“I would say things have improved and we’re happy with that,” said NFL Players Association president J.C. Tretter, a retired offensive lineman. “Our whole purpose for this … (involves) highlighting the good teams, highlighting the team that can improve and a drive for change to make things better for players, both immediately and in the long term.”

NFLPA leaders hope the report cards serve as a tool to ensure accountability and push team owners and leadership teams to provide their players with improved facilities, adequate nutrition, medical care, family accommodations and more.

Lloyd Howell, the new executive director of the NFLPA, spent much of last season traveling to meet with the owners of all 32 teams and discuss working conditions. Some of those conversations focused on the findings from last year’s results. Howell said many owners are open to better conditions.

“This is not an exercise in shame,” Howell said. “This is really an opportunity to recognize those teams and environments that are doing it right – that are doing the right things. These are players talking about their working conditions and what they like and what they would like to see improved.”

The findings of the study, which was conducted by a third-party survey service, are fascinating, but interestingly the union found no correlation between winning and losing and the quality of grades the teams received.

This year, the union added several categories, including ownership, head coach, nutritionists and dietitians.

Dolphins owner Stephen Ross received the highest ownership rating, while Hunt received the lowest.

A year after being among the worst teams in the league, the Jaguars opened a new team headquarters. The rat plague that caused complaints and low figures in 2023 is no longer an issue. The Cincinnati Bengals were among the worst in cafeteria numbers in 2023, as no meals were provided all day. A year later, the team began offering three meals a day on Wednesdays, but there is still a long way to go before players feel adequately cared for.

The Commanders were among the worst overall last season under Daniel Snyder and now have a new owner in Josh Harris. Ownership rates rose, but facilities rates improved only slightly, which is understandable considering Harris, who bought the team in late July, has had limited time to make upgrades.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys fell from fifth to 12th, with frustrations over limited resources and understaffed training staff causing a decline in player satisfaction.

One of the biggest concerns for players is adequate resources and staff in training rooms. Many teams are understaffed in this department, and the NFLPA has been in discussions with the NFL about the need for a threshold for the number of coaches employed by a team to ensure an adequate coach-to-player ratio that ensures that players receive adequate care in the event of injuries.

The NFL released a statement saying the league and teams “encourage and solicit player feedback to help improve all facets of their NFL experience. We look forward to the opportunity to review the union’s questionnaire and the data supporting it.”

The league added that it had invited the union to join it “in a rigorous third-party scientific investigation, as we have done before.”

Required reading

(Photo: Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Draft season kicks into high gear this week at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis as teams will put prospects under a microscope during private interviews, news conferences and workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Quarterbacks always dominate conversations at the combine, and this year will be no different with USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye and LSU’s Jayden Daniels expected to be among the first handful of picks come April. But a stellar wide receiver group, headlined by Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr., LSU’s Malik Nabers and Washington’s Rome Odunze, will also draw plenty of interest this week.

Beyond the draft prospects, new head coaches, led by the Chargers’ Jim Harbaugh, and GMs, including the Commanders’ Adam Peters, will be in the spotlight. And the futures of quarterbacks Kirk Cousins, Russell Wilson and Justin Fields will be hot topics.

We asked The Athletic’s team of beat and national writers to fill us in on who or what they’ll be watching or listening for as the NFL world descends upon Indianapolis.

How big of a priority is an upgrade at wide receiver?

The Cardinals need help there. That’s not a question. But they have several needs, and two of the biggest are on the offensive and defensive lines. Like many of his peers, general manager Monti Ossenfort believes the quickest way to build is through the trenches. The popular theory is that if wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is there, you take him. But what if he’s not? Does Arizona select Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze, also considered elite receivers? Or do they go a different route and look to pick up a receiver in later rounds? Ossenfort, who traded back from No. 3 last year, won’t answer these questions, of course, but he might shed light on how he views Arizona’s roster priorities. — Doug Haller

How does Tier 2 of the quarterback class shake out?

The Falcons don’t have a shot at Caleb Williams or Drake Maye picking at No. 8, and trading up to No. 1 or No. 2 in this draft class doesn’t seem realistic for anyone. That means if Atlanta is going to rely on the draft to find its next quarterback, it’s going to have to decide who it likes from a group that includes LSU’s Jayden Daniels, Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy and maybe even Oregon’s Bo Nix. Not only that, the Falcons have to figure out where they’re going to need to pick to get the player they want. McCarthy and Nix almost certainly will be available at eight, but getting Daniels might require a trade up to as high as No. 3. — Josh Kendall

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Which agents is general manager Eric DeCosta meeting with?

The Ravens are picking 30th. They have myriad needs, particularly on the offensive line and at running back and edge rusher. However, they’ll stay at 30 and pick the best player available or they’ll trade back to accrue more picks. What they do in the draft is never sexy, but it’s who they are. It’s also why there will be no position focus at the combine. What will be more notable is whether DeCosta can gain any traction in re-signing his own free agents. The Ravens have nearly two dozen, including standouts Justin Madubuike and Patrick Queen. With a tight salary-cap situation, DeCosta will need to get creative to keep the core of a 13-4 team together for another run. — Jeff Zrebiec

How will the Bills navigate their currently nonexistent cap space?

The Bills have their work cut out for them this offseason. The team is in a projected $41 million hole for 2024 cap space, with only 53 players on their roster and a lot of holes to boot. The team will need to make some difficult decisions. Whom might they cut to make room? Which contracts will they restructure? Which players will they extend? How much do they want to negatively influence their 2025 cap sheet with some of their restructurings? General manager Brandon Beane hasn’t had to do anything quite like this since his early years as the team’s GM. — Joe Buscaglia

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The team’s new coach and general manager

I’m interested in hearing what Dave Canales and Dan Morgan say at their first combine as the top of the Panthers’ football food chain. The two spoke in mostly general terms at their introductory news conference, where Morgan said the team needs more “dogs.” You might have heard: The Panthers don’t have a first-round pick. But this is an important offseason for a team that needs to get quarterback Bryce Young offensive line help and more weapons while figuring out how to handle a pair of key free agents in edge rusher Brian Burns and linebacker Frankie Luvu. — Joseph Person

All eyes at the combine will be on Caleb Williams, right, the presumptive No. 1 pick in the draft this week at the combine. (John Leyba / USA Today)

How will Caleb Williams handle the limelight?

The most important elements of the combine for the presumptive No. 1 pick will take place behind the scenes during his conversations with teams, starting with the Bears. Most questions about Williams have more to do with what he’s like off the field, and while he’s experienced more fame than most college football players, he hasn’t experienced anything like the media onslaught that will be waiting for him Friday morning in Indianapolis. The Bears, and other teams, will likely take note of how he does in that environment. — Kevin Fishbain

The defensive tackle class

The Bengals need to attack needs at interior defensive line aggressively, so how the measurables (and interviews) shake out will go a long way to deciding if Byron Murphy of Texas and Jer’Zhan Newton of Illinois could connect at No. 18 or if a move up or down the board shakes them out of mid-first range. Will any new candidates enter the equation for Day 2 with a strong combine? The Bengals need to plot the draft path at DT and if they don’t see enough options, they could shift to a free-agent-laden approach. — Paul Dehner Jr.

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The wide receivers

The Browns are focused on winning in 2024, so the “good” stuff at the combine will involve Browns GM Andrew Berry talking potential trades with his peers and potentially bumping into agents of upcoming free agents. None of that will be for public consumption. But the Browns need to upgrade their receiving corps — now and into the future — so it’s fair to think they’ll focus on their evaluations of this year’s wide receiver class. The Browns don’t pick until No. 54 of the second round, so they’ll have to determine how many wide receivers will be long gone, which ones they might like in the second or third rounds and how those receivers might fit into their ever-evolving offense. — Zac Jackson

What is the latest with Dak Prescott’s contract?

There are plenty of areas to address in free agency and the draft, from offensive line to linebacker and defensive tackle. But Prescott’s contract is the No. 1 issue because it affects everything else. The Cowboys have given no indication that they are considering an immediate future without Prescott, who is entering the final season of his current deal. The most likely scenario is that he signs a new contract next month. If the Cowboys leave his deal as is, he’d count just under $60 million against their 2024 cap, making it difficult to do anything to improve the roster outside of the draft. If Dallas is truly “all in,” like Jerry Jones said at the Senior Bowl, they need to figure out Prescott’s future so they can begin improving the rest of the roster. — Jon Machota

Russell Wilson watch

Sean Payton said after the season that a decision on the future of the 35-year-old Wilson would not be “a long, drawn-out process.” A few weeks later, at the Super Bowl, Payton said the decision would come “sooner rather than later.” The Broncos appear ready to move on from Wilson, whose $37 million in 2025 salary becomes guaranteed if he’s still on the roster on March 17, but there has been no movement yet publicly. I’m interested to see whether the activities at the combine reveal anything about what the Broncos will do with Wilson after two underwhelming seasons in Denver and what light will be shed on their quarterback plan to follow. — Nick Kosmider

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The cornerback class

This is a really intriguing group of corners, with more than a handful of prospects looking like first-rounders. The Lions obviously could use some young talent at the position, whether it’s at No. 29 on the first night or on Day 2 with three picks — Nos. 61, 73 and 92. I’m curious to see which corners separate themselves in Indianapolis. Testing is obviously part of the equation, but defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn believes you have to be wired a certain way to excel at the position. Hearing from corners at the podium could help us get a better understanding of prospects the Lions might like. — Colton Pouncy

Packers quarterback Jordan Love exceeded expectations in his first year as a starter and now is in line for a contract extension. (Patrick McDermott / Getty Images)

Jordan Love extension talks

I’m going to be parked next to the second-floor Starbucks at the JW Marriott for 96 consecutive hours, waiting for a glimpse of Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst and super-agent David Mulugheta talking with each other. I’d even take just a glance in each other’s direction. Then, I’ll know exactly how much the Packers are paying Love. Gutekunst can’t sign his franchise quarterback until May 3 because that’s 12 months after Love’s last extension, but he and Mulugheta will surely meet in Indianapolis to exchange contract numbers. — Matt Schneidman

Nick Caserio’s plan to build on last season

This was supposed to be a gradual and potentially painful build as Caserio and new coach DeMeco Ryans began laying the foundation last season after the GM spent the two previous years dismantling and setting the table for a true rebuild. But Caserio struck gold with his hiring of Ryans and draft selections both in 2022 and 2023 and Houston came out of nowhere to win its first division title in four years. Now Caserio must further fortify the roster, giving C.J. Stroud additional support by way of consistent weapons and more impactful defensive playmakers. With adequate cap space and eight draft picks, the Texans have resources to build with a blend of free-agent talent and young prospects. Caserio and Ryans surely will not give away any state secrets next week, but they should shed light on some of their highest priorities. — Mike Jones

Who will catch the eye of Colts WRs coach Reggie Wayne?

Beyond the first-round prospects Indianapolis will consider with the No. 15 pick, this year’s draft class is supposed to be loaded with wide receiver talent. Last year, Wayne said he was very impressed with Josh Downs’ route running and sure-handedness during the combine, despite Downs being undersized coming out of North Carolina. Wayne relayed that message to GM Chris Ballard, Downs was drafted in the third round and had a standout rookie season. I’ll use my binoculars to keep a close eye on Wayne’s interactions during combine drills, while also asking several receivers if they’ve met with him and heard any feedback. — James Boyd

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How they handle the tricky Calvin Ridley situation

By all accounts, the Jaguars want Ridley back after the 29-year-old receiver had 76 catches for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns in his first season in Jacksonville. However, Ridley’s contract expired and his situation is fascinating to consider. If the Jaguars re-sign Ridley before free agency begins, it qualifies as an extension and they would owe Atlanta a second-round pick in the 2024 draft as per the terms of their trade. However, if Ridley gets to free agency but still returns to the Jaguars, the new deal wouldn’t be considered an extension — rather a free-agent contract — and the Jaguars would only have to send Atlanta their third-round pick. Allowing Ridley to get to the open market is risky, but if the Jaguars play their cards right, they could bring back Trevor Lawrence’s top weapon without losing a top-50 pick. — Jim Ayello

Tier 2 of the receiver and tight end prospects

A major question for next season is whether Chiefs coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach can return the team’s offense to its previous potent form. One of the fastest ways to do that is to select the best pass-catching prospects available late in the first and second rounds. Travis Kelce will be 35 next season, so adding another tight end should be high on the Chiefs’ priority list. As for the receivers, the Chiefs should have plenty of options, considering the depth of this year’s class. Reid and Veach will use the combine to start identifying which receiver could most excel playing alongside Patrick Mahomes. — Nate Taylor

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The quarterback prospects

This isn’t a unique answer, but it’s the most significant roster question for the Raiders in their first full season under general manager Tom Telesco and head coach Antonio Pierce. Quarterback Aidan O’Connell was solid in 10 starts as a rookie, but it’s hard to see the Raiders finishing this offseason without adding competition for the starting job either through the addition of a veteran or a rookie quarterback. Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels are widely considered the top three quarterbacks in this class. The Raiders will do plenty of work on them, but it’ll be difficult for them to draft any of them considering they hold pick No. 13 in the first round. With that in mind, they’ll also need to deeply study J.J. McCarthy, Bo Nix, Michael Penix Jr. and the rest of the class. — Tashan Reed

The NFL world will watch with interest to see how Jim Harbaugh and the cap-strapped Chargers retool their roster this offseason. (Kirby Lee / USA Today)

Their salary-cap situation

The Chargers are effectively $31.7 million over the salary cap as they head into the combine, according to Over the Cap. Crucial decisions loom, particularly regarding receiver Mike Williams, receiver Keenan Allen, edge rusher Joey Bosa and edge rusher Khalil Mack. All four veterans have cap hits exceeding $30 million in 2024. How will new head coach Jim Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz navigate these veteran contracts — and their cap situation in general? Who stays? Who goes? Do they inquire into the trade market? Do they offer extensions? Will they use void years? I’ll be looking for answers to these questions in Indy. — Daniel Popper

Sniffing around an offseason plan

The Rams don’t generally attend the NFL combine (here is why) other than their medical staff’s on-site collection of the all-important medical information on prospects. But Indianapolis is still a great place to gather data and tidbits from agents and other league sources about what their offseason plan could be and new trends in contract structures and team-building. The Rams will have approximately $40 million in workable cap space and a lot of needs despite a better-than-expected 2023 season. They also have brought in new assistant coaches — and the combine will be the perfect environment to mine for information about those additions. — Jourdan Rodrigue

Tua Tagovailoa extension talks

It certainly seems like a Tagovailoa extension is a foregone conclusion. But what will it look like and when will it happen? The Dolphins QB enters the 2024 season with a $23.1 million cap charge on the fifth-year option. The Dolphins then have the franchise tag at their disposal, so they don’t have to sign him to a long-term deal now or even next offseason. But for a team that could use some cap relief, lowering his cap figure with an extension could be appealing. But how much is it going to take to retain Tagovailoa? Is he the caliber of quarterback who should be paid in the neighborhood of a Joe Burrow ($55 million AAV)? Would he take less? These are the franchise-defining questions to keep in mind at the combine and beyond. — Jim Ayello

Where things stand between the Vikings and Kirk Cousins

This subject will shape the future of the Vikings organization. Keep Cousins, and Minnesota would likely be signaling its belief that it can contend in the short term. Move on from him, and the Vikings would be indicating that they’d be ready to chart a new path. Cousins’ contract is set to void March 12. If that happens, the Vikings will be on the hook for a hefty $28.5 million dead-cap hit. The only way to extend that money into the future is to come to terms on an extension with Cousins. The NFL combine stands as a prime opportunity for in-person discussions on this subject between the team and Cousins’ representatives. — Alec Lewis

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Quarterback Jayden Daniels

The easiest way for the Patriots to address their issues at quarterback is to draft a signal caller — either Daniels or Drake Maye depending on who falls to them at No. 3. With Daniels, there are more unknowns. The Pats aren’t concerned about his height (6-foot-4) or hand size (9 5/8 inches), but scouts want to see him at or above 210 pounds at the combine because there are concerns about his slight frame and the big hits he too often takes. The other question for the Patriots is how Daniels will interview and how he’ll test when they run him through plays on the whiteboard. How Daniels (and Maye) do this week will go a long way in determining whether the Patriots draft a quarterback or wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with the third pick. — Chad Graff

Offensive tackles and pass catchers

We’ll leave the annual “too far over the salary cap” discussion for after the combine because the Saints always find a way. And this year it should come in mass contract restructurings of several veteran players. As noted in our NFL reporters’ mock draft recently, the need for tackle and/or guard should stand high on the priority list. So you’d imagine players like Olu Fashanu (Penn State), JC Latham (Alabama), Taliese Fuaga (Oregon State), Amarius Mims (Georgia) and Tyler Guyton (Oklahoma) are all on the Saints’ radar. The Saints could also use another piece for Derek Carr at wide receiver (LSU’s Brian Thomas, Florida State’s Keon Coleman, Texas’ Adonai Mitchell) to add some more punch with Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. — Larry Holder

Saquon Barkley watch

There’s a lot riding on this next period of the Giants offseason after an already noisy start to the business side of things with coaching changes aplenty. But the spotlight will be tuned to Barkley’s future at the combine as the front office and the running back’s representatives are expected to meet again. Will they be able to hammer out a deal? Will he get tagged again for $12.1 million or will he finally test the open market and venture into the interesting running back market? We’ll get a clearer picture by week’s end of where the two sides stand. — Charlotte Carroll

Washington’s Rome Odunze is one of the stars of a deep wide receiver class that will draw plenty of interest in Indianapolis. (Joe Nicholson / USA Today)

The pass catchers

The Jets have an obvious need at offensive tackle (and/or at guard, too, depending on some offseason decisions), but they also desperately need help at wide receiver for star Garrett Wilson. Allen Lazard won’t cut it as an option in 2024. There are some extremely talented receivers in this class who could be available at No. 10 when the Jets pick — after Marvin Harrison Jr., who will almost certainly be gone — and even if the Jets still need an offensive lineman, they might be tempted by the likes of Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze — or others later in the draft, when teams have found stars in past years while the Jets sat on their hands, like last year. — Zack Rosenblatt

Are they organized?

Fourth-year coach Nick Sirianni overhauled both coordinator positions, and there’s still not much clarity about how involved he will be in working with newly hired offensive coordinator Kellen Moore to build a less predictable offensive system that supplies a deeply talented roster with more answers this offseason. And what kind of offense is that exactly? A Howie Roseman-led personnel department that remains largely intact must also upgrade several defensive positions. How more favorably positioned will defenders be in a revamped “Fangio System” that will this time be coached by … well, Vic Fangio? — Brooks Kubena

If it’s a clean sweep concerning Kenny Pickett

The Steelers interview every single player they can and they pretty much use the combine as an assurance of what they’ve scouted throughout the year. So there’s not much to glean there. Where there could be some clarification, or at least unity, is what general manager Omar Khan says about Pickett compared with what Mike Tomlin said days after the season and what owner Art Rooney II said two weeks later. Both alluded to Pickett being the No. 1 quarterback entering the season despite not regaining his starting position from Mason Rudolph over the final four games of the season. Will the Steelers triple down on that or walk it back and hammer home that Pickett won’t be entering the offseason as the clear-cut QB1 and either a re-signing of Rudolph or an outside free agent — or a potential trade — will provide legitimate competition? — Mark Kaboly

The offensive linemen

Three of the top center prospects — Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson, Duke’s Graham Barton and West Virginia’s Zach Frazier — should all have multi-positional capability in the NFL. That could be tantalizing to the 49ers, whose biggest weakness to fix lies in the offensive line. More than one spot was a problem this past season. Essentially everyone but left tackle Trent Williams endured significant struggles at one point or another. So perhaps the 49ers, who don’t pick until No. 31, will be looking for an adaptable interior lineman who can immediately fortify their especially problematic right guard position before potentially becoming the long-term solution at center. The 49ers simply need more quality options up front. Imagine the boost that could give QB Brock Purdy. — David Lombardi

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John Schneider flying solo

This will be Seattle’s first combine with GM Schneider leading football operations, so his messaging from the podium will be interesting to analyze. While Schneider has long figured prominently into key decisions, coach Pete Carroll set the vision for the franchise previously. Schneider is doing more of that now. We won’t hear from new coach Mike Macdonald at all at the combine; he and his staff are expected to remain behind to install their schemes. That will put additional attention on Schneider. — Mike Sando

How they approach the quarterback position

The Bucs want to re-sign Baker Mayfield, whose contract is up. Mayfield has said he wants to remain in Tampa. But he also told ESPN he wants market value. That probably means a deal similar to the one Geno Smith recently signed with Seattle — $75 million over three years. Whether the Bucs want to pay that is the issue. A franchise tag is an option but not ideal with safety Antoine Winfield Jr. and wide receiver Mike Evans also on expiring contracts. It will be interesting to hear what GM Jason Licht says about the quarterback position, including the prospects in the draft. — Dan Pompei

Three tackles and two receivers

The free-agency picture suggests the Titans can get help at cornerback and interior offensive line before the draft but will likely have to focus their first two picks on their two biggest needs. The absence of a third-round pick increases the urgency. Second-year quarterback Will Levis needs a long-term receiver to grow with and a left tackle to protect him. The board may work out for the Titans to choose between Joe Alt and Olu Fashanu as a foundational tackle — but what about Taliese Fuaga? Does he continue his momentum in Indy? Could the Titans move down, get him and be happy with it? The board may also let Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze slide to No. 7. Would Brian Callahan prefer a playmaker over a blocker as the Bengals did when he was there and they took Ja’Marr Chase over Penei Sewell in 2021? — Joe Rexrode

The quarterbacks

It’s no secret that the holders of the No. 2 pick are expected to select a quarterback from the top group. The trick here is the new braintrust of GM Adam Peters, head coach Dan Quinn, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and the scouting department holdovers are mostly new to each other. Do they have Caleb Williams, Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels graded in the same range? If Williams is a cut above, is the gap considered enough to offer the Bears a Godfather trade for the first pick? Has Daniels’ dual-threat shine caught up to Maye or do they prefer the UNC quarterback’s prototypical size? We won’t find out the staff’s hopes and dreams, but this is where the detective work begins by examining the trio on our own. — Ben Standig

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(Top photos of J.J. McCarthy, Saquon Barkley and Malik Nabers: Gregory Shamus, Getty Images; Jim McIsaac, Getty Images; Matthew Hinton / USA Today)

A year ago, Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles announced at the NFL Scouting Combine that his team was open for business: the first pick in the 2023 draft was available.

“We need a lot, and that (first choice) gives us more chances to sign more players,” Poles said at the time. “It's a good situation for where our club is now.”

The combination then became an intelligence gathering mission for Poles and the Bears. They had to do their due diligence on the quarterback class, including interviews with Bryce Young, CJ Stroud and Anthony Richardson.

But the Poles also needed to leave Indianapolis with an accurate view of the trade market for the top pick — and he got it. A few days after the combine ended, the Bears traded the top pick to the Carolina Panthers.

The goals for Poland in this year's competition should be similar. The Bears will face top quarterbacks: USC's Caleb Williams, North Carolina's Drake Maye, LSU's Jayden Daniels, Michigan's JJ McCarthy and possibly others.

And then the Poles will also have trading markets that they can experiment with through his conversations with other General Managers. Just like last year, one market could be the first choice. Another could be for current starter Justin Fields.

What is the biggest risk for Poland and the Bears? Does it remain with a quarterback who has the belief of his teammates but still ranks in the bottom third in the league in many statistical areas? Or does it pass on the top QBs in the draft for the second year in a row?

Which teams could be interested in Fields?

According to NFL.com, 66 quarterbacks started for teams during the 2023 season. That's a lot. But two more started for teams during the 2022 season. That's wild.

Teams are always looking for quarterbacks – and some won't be able to find answers in free agency or the draft. Unlike other teams, the Bears have a certainty with the first pick.

There were 12 quarterbacks included in Randy Mueller's rankings of the top 150 free agents for The Athletics. Only two of them – Kirk Cousins ​​of the Minnesota Vikings and Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers – made the top 20. San Francisco 49ers backup Sam Darnold was next at No. 98.

The trading market comes next. Teams will be looking for security at the most important position in the sport heading into the draft. There could be a competitive market for Fields.

With help of The Athletics's beat writers, here are five potential trade partners to consider as the NFL world descends on Indianapolis next week.

Atlanta Falcons

New Falcons offensive coordinator Zac Robinson didn't give much away when talking about what the team wants in its next quarterback.

“Whether it's a pocket guy, whether it's a guy who can move a little bit, we're just going to look for the best guy,” Robinson said.

However, the fact that Robinson has spent his entire career under Rams coach Sean McVay in Los Angeles suggests he is looking for a Jared Goff-Matthew Stafford type. However, Fields' big arm will appeal to Robinson. Robinson said the first thing he looks for is “how someone throws the football and what that looks like.”

Whether the Falcons pursue Fields may simply come down to options. They don't have a clear path to their next quarterback, as they are the eighth pick in the first round, and Atlanta isn't one of the league's top destinations for free agency. — Josh Kendal

The Broncos witnessed the full Justin Fields experience at Soldier Field in October, when he put up big numbers but made a few crucial mistakes late. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Denver Broncos

Sean Payton saw Fields at his best when the Broncos visited the Bears in Week 4 last season. Fields completed 28 of 35 passes for 335 yards and a career-high four touchdowns (a total he would match the following week). But in a narrow Bears loss, Fields also lost a fumble that was returned for a Broncos touchdown and threw an interception on Chicago's final drive, sealing the defeat.

After expressing frustration over Russell Wilson's inability to protect the football during key stretches of last season, I don't see the Broncos giving up significant draft capital for a quarterback in Fields who, while younger and more athletic than Wilson, isn't in it managed to fully address his ball security issues.

If the Broncos are going to move draft capital in a deal to acquire a quarterback, it's more likely to be a move for a rookie. Payton can fit his offense, even if it means sitting behind Jarrett Stidham for a season. . — Nick Kosmider

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Las Vegas Raiders

It's highly unlikely the Raiders will pursue Fields because they hired the offensive coordinator who was fired after working with him in Chicago last season.

Luke Getsy was selected by the Raiders for his work as a passing game coordinator with the Packers and his run-game concepts with the Bears, as the Raiders decided that the biggest problem with the Bears offense over the past two seasons was the quarterback and not the offensive. coordinator. Getsy also worked with Raiders receiver Davante Adams in Green Bay. — Vic Tafur

New England Patriots

The Patriots are exploring all options to improve their quarterback situation, even if the most likely option means using the No. 3 pick at the position. But they might be tempted to sign Marvin Harrison Jr. to appoint, perhaps the best wide receiver of the past decade. So maybe there's an argument for trading for Fields and using that top pick on Harrison, immediately upgrading both the quarterback and wide receiver — perhaps the two biggest weaknesses on the roster.

Even if it appears the Pats are more likely to pursue a quarterback with their third pick, if those future picks (likely Maye and Daniels) disappoint in interviews at the combine, the Patriots might consider parting with their third-round pick ( No. 68) for fields. — Chad Graff

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Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers have two paths they can take at quarterback: hope new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith can unlock something in Kenny Pickett that the NFL hasn't seen yet, or look elsewhere for an upgrade.

While the Rooney family is known for its patient approach, general manager Omar Khan has done business with the Bears before, and Fields is perhaps the most realistic of the outside options. Fields' mobility would add another wrinkle to the run-heavy scheme Smith is likely to install, and the former Buckeye's big arm would showcase the skills of George Pickens' underutilized deep threat. The quarterback would also be backed by what is expected to be the NFL's highest-paid defense, so he wouldn't immediately be asked to be a finished product.

But what is the price? If you're giving up something to get him, it's probably wise to double down by picking up the estimated $23.3 million fifth-year option in May. Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, the Steelers should be ready to take on Pickett. That's a big gamble for a quarterback the Bears aren't sold on just three years after giving up four picks to get him. — Mike DeFabo

How would a transaction proceed?

Last year the New York Jets went all-in. They traded for Aaron Rodgers.

In 2022, the Broncos put all their chips in. They acquired Russell Wilson.

A team interested in Fields and then acquiring him in a trade with the Bears wouldn't do the same. It could be hedging his bets on the position, and not just betting on Fields.

Fields' situation also looks different than the Panthers' desperate decision to acquire Darnold from the Jets in 2021 for a sixth-round pick in that draft and second- and fourth-rounders in 2022. The Panthers then guaranteed his fifth-year option.

However, these three transactions occurred before the draft. This is important. Some QB-needy teams will seek clarity due to the unpredictability of the draft. Other teams may be more compelled to wait until the draft.

The Polish plan will have to be flexible, but only to a certain extent. The Bears have complimented Fields since the end of the season. Poland, coach Matt Eberflus and president/CEO Kevin Warren have all done it. But that could be seen as an attempt to create leverage in trade talks that could come their way in Indianapolis.

For all his physical gifts and glimpses of potential stardom, Fields' numbers tell you not to pick his fifth-year option for the 2025 season.

Among qualified QBs, Fields finished the 2023 season ranked 29th in completion percentage, 23rd in passing yards per game, 22nd in passer rating, 24th in QBR, 26th in adjusted net yards per attempt, 31st in sack percentage and 22nd in interception percentage (per Professional Football Reference ). His numbers on third downs, in the fourth quarter and in late-game situations don't inspire much confidence either.

As always, more context is needed. The Bears as an organization should be blamed for his failures as much, if not more, than he is. But the situation is what it is. The Bears have built in the ability to pivot from fields if necessary.

However, Fields may still be the best option for other teams after free agency and before the draft. The difference between the Bears and those teams is that they have the first pick. The design still starts with them.

GO DEEPER

2024 NFL Draft Big Board: Who are the top 100 prospects in this year's class?

GO DEEPER

2024 NFL Draft Consensus Big Board: Who is rising and ahead of the combine?

(Top photo: Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

NFL free agency is fast approaching, offering the first window for teams to improve this offseason, provided they sign the right players.

These are my rankings and scouting reports of the top 150 free agents available, shaped by a ton of film work and perspective from many years leading NFL personnel departments. This might not be exactly how you see it, but that’s why Baskin-Robbins has 31 flavors.

A few notes:

• While these rankings factor in age (as of Sept. 5, the scheduled date of the 2024 season opener) and known injury history, they do not consider medical or character information, as teams know much more about those subjects behind closed doors.

• At each position, I’ve included some stats I find valuable. At some positions, I’ve estimated play speed from what I can see on tape (not timed 40-yard-dash speed — there is a difference). At times, I’ve used play speed as a differentiator.

• If I were with an NFL team, this would be only one part of a multilevel process to establish consensus within the building. That consensus is missing from any rankings you’ll see, here or elsewhere. You can read more about my criteria and how an NFL GM approaches free agency here.

With that, let’s dive in.

Team 49ers Bears Bengals Bills Broncos Browns Buccaneers Cardinals Chargers Chiefs Colts Commanders Cowboys Dolphins Eagles Falcons Giants Jaguars Jets Lions Packers Panthers Patriots Raiders Rams Ravens Saints Seahawks Steelers Texans Titans Vikings

Position C CB DT Edge G LB OT QB RB S TE WR

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Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 250

Burns fits all the criteria teams look for in free agency: age, athletic ability and all-around game. His production was limited somewhat by the Panthers’ scheme, but his suddenness and pass rush package should translate to higher-volume production. Offenses must have a plan to deal with his ability each week. Carolina turned down multiple first-round picks for Burns in 2022, so the franchise tag seems likely. — Randy Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 263

Hunter has been used from various alignments and is effective rushing the passer from all of them. He has upfield burst and countermoves to keep blockers guessing. He also understands how to set the edge with length and get off of blocks against the run. His skill set is hard to find, and despite entering his 10th season, he doesn’t turn 30 until October. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 305

Madubuike is a really good player who projects to a Pro Bowl level in any scheme. He shocks blockers on impact with heavy hands and explosive strength but can also beat you with quickness and agility. He blends all criteria better than any defensive tackle on this list. The Ravens often let players walk for compensatory picks, but Madubuike is a different caliber of player. The franchise tag or an extension seems likely. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-6 Weight: 310

Jones is no less impactful than Madubuike, and he has a knack for making big plays. His power and quickness are rare when he is engaged with desire. Stamina is always a bit of a question, but he is unblockable when he’s playing hard. I expect the Chiefs to value him more than other teams because of how perfectly he fits their defense. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-0 Weight: 232

Barkley’s natural instincts and vision to create beyond the play’s design make him special. He finishes like a 232-pound back should, with power and lean, but has the rare trait to make defenders miss as well. He’s also detailed and controlled as a route runner, which makes him the best three-down back available, even with durability concerns (25 games missed in six seasons, three in 2023). More than just a running back, he is a weapon. Other teams might value him more than the Giants do. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-5 Weight: 255

Allen put up outstanding production in 2023, but he was not quite as consistent on film. He’s a good player with elite skills, but at times, he was not as sudden as a rusher or in pursuit as he has been in the past. He picked his spots some. That said, he will still be in high demand (if the Jaguars don’t tag him). There is still upside here, which is scary. — Mueller

Age: 36 Height: 6-3 Weight: 205

Cousins is fundamental in every aspect of his game but at times can be mechanical and robotic. He is pretty efficient and has good intangibles. A tough leader who will stand in the pocket and can deliver most NFL throws, he has taken his skill set to a higher level with his mind and is still capable of being a mid-tier starting QB in the league, even coming off a significant injury. Will the Vikings be able to keep him as other suitors come calling? — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 196

Johnson will hit the market (if the Bears don’t tag or re-sign him before free agency) at the most opportune time. His combination of age, cover skills and adaptability to scheme will make him highly sought after. He can play both press and off coverage, and he reacts well to throws using his length, timing and ball skills. In a thin, aging cornerback class — only two made my top 65, and only four of the 13 in my top 150 are under age 28 — Johnson is the best and the youngest. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-4 Weight: 275

Smith surprised me as an addition to the top group of edge defenders. He showed top-level acceleration and burst as an outside, upfield rusher or while running tricks and games. He slips blocks, uses his hands and is really hard to block against the run as well. His motor will help his team’s defensive culture, and he’s stayed largely healthy since having back surgery in 2021. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-4 Weight: 310

Wilkins is an incredibly versatile defensive tackle, given where he aligns and his ability to blend quickness with power. He can play in any scheme. He’s strong at the point of attack but also has athletic ability and range. He’s a really good player, and his value keeps climbing after a career season. Will the Dolphins be able to keep him? — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 263

Greenard is extremely quick off the ball and when closing in pursuit. He has natural bend to squeeze the pocket and turn the corner as a rusher, and he’s capable of wrecking games. His size makes him a legit outside linebacker in base defenses. He should be coveted if he hits the market, even if durability (19 games missed in four seasons) is a slight question mark. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-10 Weight: 223

Jacobs, who missed four games in 2023, has many of the same traits as Barkley, including power, good pad level and the ability to get more yards than the play is designed for. As a route runner, he is slightly less detailed than Barkley with his technique and slightly less nimble with his body control. But he carries the ball with a sense of anger and physicality that few have, and that is worth paying a premium for. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-1 Weight: 192

Sneed is an aggressive player who has great agility to go with his quick reactions when he trusts his skills. When he doesn’t trust his technique, penalties have been a problem. He is very tough and physical for his position, showing the willingness to mix it up against both the run and pass. His strength might be in the way he plays the ball at the moment of truth. The Chiefs, who also have DT Chris Jones hitting free agency, let Charvarius Ward walk in 2022. What will they do with Sneed? — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 201

McKinney plays like a traditional free safety. He transitions without any hiccups and shows sudden burst to close once redirected. He has great range and the ball skills to make plays when he gets there. His speed helps him catch up with almost anyone. Youth, athletic ability and instincts are all on his side. He’s my favorite among the available safeties. Will the Giants consider the franchise tag (projected at $16.3 million)? — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-4 Weight: 315

Cushenberry has the combination of strength and agility that everyone looks for in a center. He has now added a body of work to his resume and has shown improvement each season. He consistently sustains contact with controlling upper-body strength and active feet upon impact. He’s a really good player, and he appears likely to hit the market given how much Denver has invested elsewhere up front. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-9 Weight: 203

A first-team All-Pro, Winfield was the most productive DB in this class on paper. He is great in the box and has both a nose for the ball and the instincts to anticipate against the run and the pass. He is also a good blitzer. His versatility is outstanding — he can play the nickel spot, too — and he’s always around the ball. He should get top money for the position, if the Bucs let him reach the market. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 321

Dotson, who played on the right side in L.A., has very good feet and agility but is equally dependent on his explosive power and strength. He consistently turns defenders at the point of attack in the run game, and his punch is very effective at displacing pass rushers. He is one of the few free agents in this class who can knock people back on impact to create space. The Rams say they’d like to keep him, but he’s a really good player who should have a substantial market despite some injury history (11 games missed since 2021, three in 2023). — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 255

Huff is a role player, as a pass rush specialist, but he has been very productive. He gets off the ball and under blocks as a pass rusher with incredible upfield burst. His pressure rate is the best in this free-agent class. His play against the run is a work in progress and will have to improve for him to become a full-time player. The Jets — who have already spent significant money and draft capital on the D-line — might struggle to afford him. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 307

Runyan plays with excellent initial quickness, and his reactions and instincts are really good. He combo-blocks to linebackers effectively and plays with timing and very good awareness. It helps that he can also play with bend and a solid punch. He’s developing into one of the better guards in the NFC. The Packers have already paid left guard Elgton Jenkins, so Runyan will likely hit the market. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-1 Weight: 215

Mayfield fit in well in Tampa with his intangibles and leadership. His skill set and talent are enough to win games in the NFL, but he is not dynamic and won’t wow you with any one characteristic. He’s a very functional NFL starter, though. He should get a substantial raise from the $4 million he signed for in 2023. — Mueller

Age: 36 Height: 6-3 Weight: 295

Reports have said Kelce is retiring, but he has yet to address his future publicly. Even at age 36, he puts on a clinic in technique and how to play the center position. His footwork is a masterclass, and every step is intentional. He’s never hurt, not missing a game since 2014. If he elects to continue playing, some team (most likely the Eagles, the only team Kelce has played for) will get a front-line center. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-3 Weight: 240

Floyd is the second 30-something to crack this list as an edge player. He has a complete game, a nose for the football and plays hard consistently, even with eight seasons under his belt. That effort would be good for a team’s culture, but that might not be on the Bills, as Floyd has said he will “go where the money goes” in free agency. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-1 Weight: 190

Ridley represents the best combination of size, speed and hands in this group of receivers. He really comes off the ball quickly, eats up defenders’ cushions and gets in and out of breaks very quickly. His suddenness jumps out compared to other receivers, and he runs a complete route tree with the body control to win versus zone and man. He will frustrate you with occasional drops, but it’s more about lacking focus than hands. The Jaguars owe the Falcons a 2024 third-round pick from the 2022 trade for Ridley, but if they sign him to a new deal, they would instead owe a second-rounder. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-5 Weight: 300

Williams’ frame is rare, and he fits best as a five-technique in a three-man line, which is really hard to find. His length and hand usage are two of his biggest attributes. He’s not a skilled, high-level pass rusher but is very effective versus both the run and pass. His style and substance mirror Wilkins, but he’s been a shade less productive and is two years older. — Mueller

Age: 32 Height: 6-4 Weight: 320

Forget the numbers. Injuries derailed Jones’ season, but he can wreck the line of scrimmage when healthy. He provides really good push and gets penetration versus the run, and he’s a slippery interior pass rusher, too. He has a nose for the ball and gets off blocks. He lacks the length and range of the guys above him but fits best at nose and three-technique. The Bills, who face major cap constraints, have already paid Ed Oliver and have three free-agent DTs, suggesting Jones should hit the market. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 330

Eluemunor has played right tackle in Las Vegas but might even be seen as a left tackle by some teams. He is a natural athlete with the feet and smooth agility to stay square on his targets, especially in pass protection. His ability to recover and play with consistent balance gives him a giant step up on the competition in this free-agent tackle pool. He makes it look easy at times. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-0 Weight: 230

The Ravens declined Queen’s fifth-year option after they paid Roquan Smith, but considering Queen’s age, instincts and playmaking production, he is the best option at this position. He can run, blitz and play the run or pass equally well. He can be impulsive at times, but he flies around and makes plays. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 330

Simpson plays with the strength and physicality of an old-school guard. He can control with his upper body and strong hands but can also pull, lead and adjust. He needs to become more consistent, but he moves defenders in both the run and pass game. He’s trending to be a really good player, and the Ravens tend to let players sign elsewhere (and collect compensatory picks). Right guard Kevin Zeitler is also a free agent. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-11 Weight: 173

Mooney’s high ranking is more about potential than his body of work. He can really run and shows the explosive ability to separate from coverage at every level. His ability to stretch the field can force opponents to defend the offense differently. His numbers will increase in a different scheme if the ball is delivered on time. Mooney does lack size, so he can be affected by incidental contact. Contested catches are the only small question I have. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 258

Henry is a versatile, do-everything option who catches the ball well in traffic and when covered. He can get open with his athletic skills, his instincts or both. His numbers were down in 2023, mostly because of the scheme and the lack of talent around him. He’s also an adequate blocker who can sustain to make all blocks needed in the run game. He’s seeking his third NFL contract after playing out his three-year, $37.5 million deal in New England. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 235

Luvu is a really good player despite being on his NFL second team. He is very instinctive and blends explosive pop with speed and athletic ability. He’s often all over the field, running and hitting everything — and ball carriers go down when he hits them. He’s also a really good blitzer with some natural pass rushing skill, and he’s hitting the market with his stock at its peak. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-4 Weight: 223

Pittman is a first-down machine. His size and elite catch radius make him one of the top contested-catch receivers in the game. His physicality as a runner after catch (528 YAC, most among free-agent wideouts) makes him a weapon with the ball, too. He might not possess deep speed, but he has competitive speed to take short throws and turn them into much more than the play design intended. I would not be surprised if Pittman gets tagged because of his production and how he offers the Colts’ QBs security. His size means he’s open consistently, even when covered. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-5 Weight: 320

Smith is still a high-level performer at the toughest position on the line. He just has not been able to stay healthy. He played in 13 games in 2023, but that equaled his highest mark since 2015, and he missed 33 of 50 games from 2020 to 2022. When on the field, he is strong, displaces defenders with an explosive punch and understands how to cut off angles. His lateral range has suffered some due to the injuries, but his physical presence sends a message to the opposition. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-4 Weight: 219

Higgins missed five games this year, so his numbers were down, but he also appeared less explosive. I was surprised at how little juice I saw on tape. He’s not an elite athlete for the position, but I think he is better than his health allowed, as this season was not the best reflection of his skill set. He is a big target who is most effective on slants and using his body to screen off defenders. He can deceptively eat up cushion with his long stride, and his length and catch radius allow him to make contested catches. He might be more valuable to the Bengals than to the rest of the league, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they tagged him. — Mueller

Age: 34 Height: 6-5 Weight: 285

Autry was a surprise entry to this list for me. He has the length to fit at five-technique and is both strong at the point of attack and athletic enough to chase plays down in space. He plays like a younger man at a position where quality options don’t become available often. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-3 Weight: 309

Jones has really good quickness and lateral range for the position, and his instincts and nose for the ball make him very productive, as he anticipates blocks well. His get-off and ability to get up and down the line of scrimmage are his biggest strengths. He raised his stock considerably with a career-best season in 2023. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-5 Weight: 264

Young played well in the Super Bowl, but he ranked No. 24 of 43 qualifying edge rushers in Pro Football Focus’ pass rush productivity over his time with the 49ers and had pursuit issues in the NFC Championship Game against the Lions. Any concerns about effort seemed rectified against the Chiefs, and Young’s explosive performance should grab the NFL’s attention. Whether he returns will be a matter of price. — David Lombardi

Age: 31 Height: 6-5 Weight: 231

Evans had a season best described as up and down. He played angry at times and often seemed frustrated by little things, which showed in his body language. But he is still a big, strong dude who can move the chains, break tackles and make highlight catches. He remains very productive, but persistent drops gave me pause for concern. This was a perplexing evaluation for me, so his fit with the right team and scheme is paramount. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-3 Weight: 194

Don’t dismiss Reynolds because of his key drops in the NFC Championship Game — per PFF, he had only three drops during the whole regular season. He has size and a solid catch radius and made big grabs for his team all season long. He is physical, fighting through contact and drawing his share of pass interference calls. His speed is not elite, but he has the body control to get in and out of breaks very well for a big man. He should be a solid No. 2 WR in the league. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-5 Weight: 255

Baltimore proved to be the perfect fit for Clowney, who was looking to resurrect his career. He said he’d love to return, but he certainly earned a far bigger payday than the $2.5 million deal he signed with the Ravens last fall. In past offseasons, Baltimore has avoided spending big bucks on the outside linebacker position. — Jeff Zrebiec

Age: 26 Height: 5-10 Weight: 201

Gilman came out of nowhere and really impressed me. He’s very instinctive and has athletic skills that consistently put him in position to make plays. He closes with first-step acceleration and times pass breakups very well. He will tackle and play the run by wrapping with physicality. He also has a knack for the ball, always getting his hands on it. A sixth-round pick who has started only one full season, he might fly under the radar and prove to be a bargain. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 220

Don’t be discouraged by the lack of numbers. Chinn can run, tackle and close in coverage. He has the range of a free safety but hits like a Will ‘backer. He injured his quad and started only eight games in 2023. The runner-up for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2020 is a better player than the numbers show. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-2 Weight: 222

Dugger, a 2020 second-round pick from Division II Lenoir-Rhyne, improved slowly through his first few seasons. He nabbed two pick sixes in a standout 2022 season, but 2023 wasn’t quite as good. He offers precisely what many modern defenses seek, with the size of a linebacker and the athleticism to drop deep as a safety. — Chad Graff

Age: 34 Height: 6-4 Weight: 340

Zeitler still sets culture with the Ravens by being physical and technique-sound. He plays with an old-school toughness but isn’t the same athlete he once was. His smarts and football IQ make up for any slip. He relies on his upper body more than engaging his legs and pad level, but he still has tread left as a top right guard. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-2 Weight: 225

Davis will not jump off the screen with his explosiveness, as he is more of a steady and consistent type. He is an easily identifiable target because of his size, especially versus zone defense. He can adjust and make catches outside his frame, and he’s physical while fighting through contact on his routes — being big and strong are obvious advantages. He is still developing as a route runner and as a coverage reader. Because of this, and given his age, he offers a lot of upside. He is solid in all areas, just not elite in any. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 5-11 Weight: 208

A nickel with the Saints who has transitioned to safety the last two seasons, Gardner-Johnson moves very well, with smooth hips and transitions. He covers ground quickly and can cover tight ends and slot receivers man-to-man. He is still learning to tackle like a safety should. He is not physical. Injuries (including a torn pec in 2023) have stunted his development, but I see big upside given his skill. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-3 Weight: 335

Reader is more of a nose and/or three-technique. He has really good feet and agility in tight areas, and he plays with a consistent motor. He wears out offensive guards with relentless effort, which is impressive given his size. Durability is a bit of a concern (23 games missed in the past four seasons). — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 238

Edwards was the biggest surprise for me when watching this running back class. He has power and agility, and he’s always falling forward. Even though he is older, he has juice and acceleration, both laterally and vertically. He also has less than half of the career touches (729) that Barkley (1,489) and Jacobs (1,502) have. Edwards also has a great nose for sticks and has been way underutilized in the pass game. He has very good hands, can adjust outside his frame and will break tackles after the catch. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 258

Wonnum could be highly coveted by teams that need depth on the edge. He has developed into a solid, consistent player over the last four years, although he is recovering from a partially torn quad. He is one of three Vikings edge rushers (Danielle Hunter, Marcus Davenport) on this list. — Alec Lewis

Age: 31 Height: 5-11 Weight: 200

Opportunities and targets were limited for OBJ this season, but his skills and talent are still evident. He can run, he has the explosive ability to separate and he draws pass interference penalties as well as any other player in the NFL. He adjusts well to off-target throws and catches with his hands on par with the league’s elite. Even with his injury history, there is plenty more in the tank here if he should desire to move teams again. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-3 Weight: 247

King Henry can still be a culture-changing, identity-building running back for the right offense. The question is: Which offense will that be? He has natural vision and nifty feet to pick his way through the initial level of the defense. Even though he might lack a fifth gear at this stage, he is still really productive with his unique style. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-6 Weight: 330

Hunt, a four-year starter predominantly at right guard, missed a lot of time this year while battling a hamstring injury. He really needs to watch his weight and stamina. He brings a lot of mass to the point of attack and can get movement and cover up defenders consistently in the run game. His size and strength give him a natural anchor in pass protection as well. He just needs to stay healthy. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 350

Onwenu probably fits best at guard, but he’s been the Patriots’ most natural-footed athlete and best option at tackle. He lacks ideal length, but he plays with a good base and technique, allowing him to have very good position on contact and the ability to sustain with his balance and recovery. He has more than 1,300 career snaps at both right tackle and right guard, along with 386 snaps at left guard. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 330

Entering his ninth NFL season, Robinson might be joining his fourth NFL team, but he doesn’t turn 30 until March 2025 and remains a good player. He can play three- or five-technique, which will make him a valued commodity. He’s better as a run defender than a pass rusher, with a nose for the ball and an ability to slip blocks. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-7 Weight: 316

Peat is a guard by trade but filled in well enough at left tackle this year that we are leaving him in the tackle group, but some might still see him as a guard. He is strong, powerful on impact and can lock on to sustain in both the run and pass game. He’s not fleet of foot but imposes his will with his frame and physical presence. He’s a better player than a lot of right tackles in the league, although all of his NFL experience is on the left side. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-4 Weight: 310

Cox can still rush the passer. His 43 pressures ranked 13th among all defensive tackles in 2023, according to TruMedia. With Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter expected to step into larger roles, Cox might become a rotational backup if he re-signs with Philadelphia. Retirement is also a possibility. — Brooks Kubena

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 299

Coleman shows good quickness, hands and reactions, along with a strong feel for the game, making him a possible upgrade for many NFL teams. He isn’t the biggest or strongest, but he blends a certain patience with a high-motor intensity to be effective in both the run and pass games. He is more of a finesse type than a power player when it comes to style. Solid NFL center. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-2 Weight: 310

Wynn is on his second team after being a first-round pick of the Patriots in 2018. He has also played some at offensive tackle but found comfort and his natural position this year at left guard before getting injured in Week 7. He has all the physical tools to be a top talent, with both quickness and athletic ability, but injuries — he has played in just 50 of 99 possible games through six seasons — are a major concern. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 5-9 Weight: 215

Swift might lack the power and low pad level of the backs above him here, but he has plenty of wiggle to make people miss and burst to escape tacklers in tight areas. He’s just not the finisher that some bigger-bodied guys are. He catches the ball easily, is very effective running angle routes and can adjust smoothly to bad throws. Given his youth, he could merit a three- or four-year contract. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-4 Weight: 249

Fant is better than the numbers show. With development, he still has the upside that made him a first-round pick in 2019. Part of a three-man rotation at tight end in Seattle, he should be able to showcase his skills more in a different scheme. He can run and separate, with the athletic ability to attack all quadrants of the field. He also has the ball skills to catch and adjust outside his frame. As a blocker, he shows strength and “want to” as well. He could be a good value for somebody. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 6-4 Weight: 269

The Macon, Ga., native enjoyed playing close to home and had his best season since 2020. Dupree can play outside linebacker or a more traditional defensive end spot (like he did for the Falcons), which might make him a good fit for more teams. — Josh Kendall

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 311

A Pro Bowler in 2021, Jackson has been a mainstay at left guard on one of the best offensive lines in football. He’s mobile in space, powerful at the line of scrimmage and a remarkably consistent lineman when healthy — and he’s young. The Lions might not be able to keep him. — Colton Pouncy

Age: 33 Height: 6-4 Weight: 295

Hubbard was the Titans’ starter and full-time right tackle for nine games before injuring biceps and missing the balance of the season. He lacks ideal size but has excellent quickness and agility, particularly his lateral agility. He’s not well known around the league but is tough and consistent, and I love the way he competes. I think he can produce regardless of his measurables, even in the back end of his career. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-5 Weight: 244

Schultz is a threat in the pass game because of his athletic ability and body control. He catches everything, can get open on his own without scheme help and is a tough matchup for linebackers because of his route running instincts. In the run game, he’s a positional blocker who lacks top-notch strength to sustain at times. He is worthy of a multiyear deal after settling for a one-year contract last offseason. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 237

White is very quick to key and diagnose and is an excellent tackler. He might be the most versatile of the off-ball linebackers, from both an alignment and skill set standpoint. He can blitz and come downhill to attack ball carriers. He’s a solid tackler as well. He missed three games in 2023 but has mostly been healthy in his career. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-3 Weight: 250

Despite not signing with the Ravens until Week 4, Van Noy had one of the best seasons of his career, playing on a one-year, $1.4 million deal. He showed he has plenty of juice left, meaning he probably won’t have to wait as long to find his 2024 team. — Jeff Zrebiec

Age: 27 Height: 5-10 Weight: 200

The best nickel defender in this class, Nixon has a knack for reading and reacting to routes and diagnosing plays. He has catch-up burst to run with crossers and deeper routes. Some might view him as a starter, but at minimum, he should be a solid third cornerback/nickel. He also brings special teams value, earning first-team All-Pro honors as a kick returner in 2022 and 2023. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 237

The Texans clearly leaned on Cashman for responsibility on defense, as he made all the adjustment calls, shifts to the front, etc. He can run, has very good twitch and sees the game well. His reads and reactions are consistent, and he has a good nose for the ball. He can go sideline-to-sideline but also still come downhill with some force. He has a bit of an injury history and just 21 starts in five seasons, but teams will be interested. — Mueller

Age: 31 Height: 5-11 Weight: 194

Already a veteran of four teams, Nelson is a more experienced option at cornerback who had a solid body of work in 2023. He understands how to play and positions himself accordingly. He still is very light on his feet, can mirror in man-to-man coverage and closes with top-flight suddenness. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-10 Weight: 200

Ekeler’s 21 first downs via reception led this group of backs in 2023. He is slippery after the catch and runs bigger than his size, forcing arm tacklers to miss like a larger back. He has really good natural vision to find daylight and a nose for the goal line. He has plenty of gas left in his tank from a speed and acceleration standpoint, but he’s at his best when supplemented with an early-down back. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-6 Weight: 265

The Vikings could give Davenport an extension to push back some of his $6.8 million in dead cap, but he didn’t do much in 2023 to earn one. He battled ankle injuries and played in only four games. He has recorded only 2.5 sacks in the last two seasons combined but still has talent. — Alec Lewis

Age: 30 Height: 5-11 Weight: 193

Another journeyman cornerback who’s still playing well, Darby was not a full-time player in Baltimore (his fifth team) coming off a torn ACL in 2022. But when he played, he showed the ability to run and play man-to-man along with various zone techniques. A willing tackler, he is still athletic enough to make up ground and close with suddenness. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 240

Brooks is a very active inside linebacker who really has no holes in his game, but he’s slightly less explosive as an athlete than the three linebackers ahead of him on this list. He can play on all three downs, and his football IQ stands out. The Seahawks seem unlikely to bring back Bobby Wagner, who is also a free agent, so perhaps they’ll prioritize re-signing Brooks. — Mueller

Age: 38 Height: 6-8 Weight: 282

Campbell started all 17 games and contributed to the Falcons’ defensive turnaround. He finished the season playing at a high level and said he would like to play at least another year if the circumstances are right. His chances of re-signing in Atlanta declined upon defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen’s move to Jacksonville. — Josh Kendall

Age: 26 Height: 6-3 Weight: 316

Biadasz relies on upper-body strength and hands to stay connected in the run game. He is not always as square on contact as he could be, so he has to fight to regain his balance some. He is very effective on angle blocks and double teams. He’s a young and improving player. — Mueller

Age: 33 Height: 6-0 Weight: 190

The Cowboys would probably love to have Gilmore back for another season. He played well in 2023. But already having Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland means Dallas will likely not be willing to spend much on its No. 3 cornerback. Gilmore would have to be willing to take something very team-friendly. Jourdan Lewis is also a free agent. — Jon Machota

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 242

Van Ginkel can play off the ball or on the edge, where he impressed in 2023 while filling in for the injured Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, ranking 10th in pressure rate among all players with at least 200 pass rush snaps, per TruMedia. He could have untapped potential if he finds a larger role. — David DeChant

Age: 28 Height: 6-4 Weight: 305

Opeta started six games in 2023 (five at right guard) offering depth while the Eagles battled injuries up front. He surrendered 21 pressures, fifth-most among guards who played within his range of snaps (516), according to TruMedia, but he’s shown flashes to merit a starting role. — Brooks Kubena

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 195

Samuel has played mainly in the slot but might be better suited to move outside. No matter where he plays, his versatility should be viewed by most teams as a strength. He has excellent quickness and explosiveness and can change speeds to stretch defenses. He would be a clear-cut upgrade for many teams. He is instinctive and gets to open areas quickly against zone coverage. I see him as an undervalued player who still has upside, but he would be on his third team if he leaves Washington. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-11 Weight: 198

Fuller’s speed has declined, but his anticipation and instincts help offset that. Even so, he’s approaching 30 and has some knee concerns, making his market a bit murky. With Benjamin St-Juste and Emmanuel Forbes around, he doesn’t seem likely to return to Washington, which will miss his leadership. — Ben Standig

Age: 34 Height: 6-1 Weight: 233

David is a smart and instinctive football player who makes all the calls and directs traffic. He’s trusted by coaches and has minimal wasted movements or actions. He’s an efficient, steady player, even if he’s slipped a bit from his peak as he enters Year 13. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 188

Yiadom had his best season on his fifth team in 2023, breaking up 14 passes while allowing just 23 completions on 47 targets, per Pro Football Reference. Through his first five seasons, he had just 13 PBUs while allowing 101 completions on 155 targets. He’ll have to convince teams that this season wasn’t an outlier. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-6 Weight: 312

Cleveland made 49 starts over three-plus seasons with the Vikings before the Jaguars acquired him at the trade deadline this season. An offensive tackle at Boise State, he has spent most of his NFL career at left guard, where he allowed three sacks on 476 pass blocking snaps last season, per TruMedia. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 202

Blackmon is a very good athlete with range, easy and fluid hips and the ability to cover ground in the deep part of the field. He is what we call a “run and hit” guy. His center-field tracking and ball skills are top-notch, although his injury history is lengthy, including a torn ACL in 2019 at Utah, a torn Achilles in 2021 and a shoulder injury in 2023. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-6 Weight: 260

Epenesa has a good blend of speed and power that makes him unblockable on some reps, though there is still some inconsistency to his game. Regardless, entering his age-26 season with 13 sacks in the last two seasons as only a part-time player, he has the profile of a player whom teams flock to in free agency. He might get a bigger contract than some expect. — Joe Buscaglia

Age: 29 Height: 6-0 Weight: 228

Zeke can still pick his way through traffic and put his foot in the ground to accelerate with conviction and pop. He still breaks arm tackles but might be lacking the breakaway speed he once had. He’s very good in the pass game on screens and dump-offs, getting yards on his own. He moves the chains effectively and could easily be considered a starting back for many NFL teams. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 300

James has largely stayed healthy and maintained a baseline level of play in his three years starting at center for the Raiders, but he can be overpowered at times. Las Vegas can likely do better at the position. — Tashan Reed

Age: 27 Height: 5-9 Weight: 180

Brown remains very fast, and he’s been productive for stretches, but he’s also battled nagging injuries and caught just half of his targets in 2023. He’s very slight and gets knocked off of routes easily, an issue that can be difficult for offensive coordinators to scheme around. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-5 Weight: 253

Trautman is more effective in the pass game than the run game. He has above-average body control, and nobody adjusted to more balls outside his catching radius — his numbers reflected this. He lacks ideal strength and power in the run game but works for position and can lean on defenders. There is more in his tank from a production standpoint. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-4 Weight: 322

Charles never stuck at tackle or guard for Washington, as he battled injuries and inconsistency, including losing his starting job at left guard this past season. He’s not likely to return to the Commanders. — Ben Standig

Age: 27 Height: 6-2 Weight: 320

Gallimore played in all 17 games last season, totaling one sack and two tackles for loss. If the price is right, the 2020 third-round pick could be back, but that depends on the Cowboys’ other options as they look to improve their run defense, and whether Gallimore can find a bigger role elsewhere. — Jon Machota

Age: 25 Height: 6-7 Weight: 363

Becton is a large man who can create space on impact and cover up defenders on contact. He lacks ideal lateral range and the ability to recover when off-balance. His inconsistencies show consistently. His injury history is also concerning, even though he started 16 of 17 games in 2023, predominantly at left tackle — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 190

A regular starter in Jacksonville in 2019 and 2020, Herndon has been relegated to the third cornerback role since 2021, playing predominantly in the slot. He doesn’t have an interception since 2019, but his experience and versatility will offer value somewhere. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 319

For the first time in his career, Kinlaw was healthy for a whole season. He had some midseason struggles against the run but delivered in big moments and totaled 35 pressures as a pass rusher. The 2020 first-round pick’s future looks bright, and the Niners might struggle to keep him. — David Lombardi

Age: 26 Height: 6-1 Weight: 295

Brewer allowed seven sacks in 2023, per TruMedia, as the whole Titans offensive line struggled. However, he’s young, experienced (40 starts) and versatile (experience at both left and right guard), with the mobility that zone-heavy running teams covet. — David DeChant

Age: 26 Height: 6-5 Weight: 312

Williams moved from left tackle to right tackle this season but has the same game. He is very quick and athletic, and he can move in space with balance. He still lacks power and anchor once engaged but did a better job of being physical in 2023 while playing every snap for Cincinnati. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-6 Weight: 245

Gesicki is a one-dimensional, pass-catching tight end who can also line up in the slot as a bigger wideout. Not a prototype Y in a regular personnel group, he needs to be used as a matchup or red zone option to be productive. His blocking lags behind the tight ends above him on this list. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 225

Darnold had less than 50 attempts this season in San Francisco, but he displayed physical talent and intangibles, showing why he was drafted highly in 2018. His arm strength, accuracy and ability to process finally fit into a scheme for the first time in his career. He’s a viable option to upgrade a team if he were allowed to compete for a starting job. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-2 Weight: 240

A surprise in a good way for me, Smith is a borderline starting tight end, but he’s more skilled than that, and increased usage would improve his numbers. He’s very capable of being an option as move tight end or H-back. He runs well and can stretch the field, which could make him a value signing. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-2 Weight: 228

The third linebacker behind Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw with the 49ers, Al-Shaair followed Ran Carthon to Tennessee last offseason on a one-year deal and finished fifth in the NFL with 163 tackles. He can improve his coverage awareness, but he’s a starting-caliber player who could still have upside. — David DeChant

Age: 33 Height: 6-8 Weight: 327

Even though Lucas played less than 25 percent of the snaps for Washington (all on the left side) in 2023, his length and technique have proven to be very effective at combatting speed rushes and protecting on an island at tackle. He might just be a starting option for a needy team, or at least as a third offensive tackle. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-0 Weight: 209

In Pollard’s first year as the Cowboys’ “bell cow,” I’d give him a B-minus. He lacks power and downhill physicality between the tackles, but he’s nifty and runs with good balance. He can be a factor breaking arm tackles and as a receiver out of the backfield. He runs with discipline and intentionality but is not a creator of plays on his own. — Mueller

Age: 35 Height: 6-1 Weight: 217

Even at 35, Taylor can be a solid backup. He makes good decisions for the most part and can administrate the offense while offering plus athletic ability. He has enough arm, gets the ball out quickly and can throw accurately downfield. — Mueller

Age: 34 Height: 6-0 Weight: 242

Wagner led the NFL in tackles in 2023, but he can’t move like he used to. He would like to play a 13th NFL season, and he’d like to do it wearing a Seahawks uniform, but with Pete Carroll out as coach, a reunion would appear unlikely. Seahawks linebackers Jordyn Brooks and Devin Bush are also free agents. — Michael-Shawn Dugar

Age: 36 Height: 6-4 Weight: 217

Best suited as a backup at this stage, Tannehill can still process coverage, but his release seems to have slowed a bit. He is athletic and can be deceptively effective while extending plays or tucking and running for a first down. His arm velocity is average at this point in his career, and the ball does not jump off his hand. He can stand in the pocket, if protected, and make most NFL throws. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 5-7 Weight: 203

A versatile, undersized but productive back, Singletary uses lateral quickness more than explosive north-south speed to make defenders miss. He has natural vision to find holes but can go down easily at times because of his smaller frame. He’s a good fit in the Texans’ scheme. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 5-11 Weight: 198

Savage flashed his talent during an all-rookie first season, but never truly lived up to that playmaking potential over the next four years. He missed seven games this season with a recurring calf injury. The Packers have decisions to make with several contributing defensive backs hitting free agency. — Matt Schneidman

Age: 25 Height: 5-11 Weight: 210

Not tendered as a restricted free agent last offseason, Stone re-signed with the Ravens on a reduced deal and had the best year of his career. He led the AFC with seven interceptions and started 11 games. Also a solid special teams player, Stone has earned himself a nice-sized contract and a starting spot. — Jeff Zrebiec

Age: 28 Height: 6-7 Weight: 314

Nijman wasn’t a regular starter in 2023, but he’s experienced on both sides, especially at left tackle. He has size, athleticism and the ability to bend, working to engage his lower body as a run blocker and pass blocker. He catches more than he punches, but he plays under control with the balance to recover. He has the length to play on an island and actually was effective against top pass rushers. He is hesitant at times to see and react to stunts, but that should improve with reps. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-1 Weight: 203

Pringle isn’t a household name, but he has a great combination of size and speed, plus reliable hands when throws come his way (69.5 catch rate in his career). He also has some juice as a kick returner. He could fit nicely in an offense that needs a speedy third or fourth receiver. — David DeChant

Age: 29 Height: 6-4 Weight: 254

Hooper still has the hands, body control and feel versus zone coverage to be very productive. He can’t run like he once could but is effective because of his football IQ and consistent ability to separate on short routes. — Mueller

Age: 32 Height: 6-5 Weight: 322

A third tackle option who started 13 games on the right side as an injury replacement in 2023, Fant has always been one of the better athletes at the position. He just lacks ideal power and anchor. Assuming Tytus Howard returns healthy for the Texans in 2024, Fant would likely return to the bench if he re-signs with Houston. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 5-7 Weight: 207

The 2020 first-round pick, who has battled injuries throughout his career, wound up being the Chiefs’ primary backup to Isiah Pacheco. He really has a knack for making defenders miss after the catch, averaging 13.4 YAC per reception, tops in this group. He is quicker than he is fast and can gain yards when plays are not blocked as designed. — Mueller

Age: 25 Height: 6-3 Weight: 240

Uche appeared primed for a big payday, but that probably won’t be on the table after his production dipped. In 2022, he was one of the NFL’s leaders in pressure rate, notching 11.5 sacks. But without Matthew Judon on the other side for most of 2023, Uche’s pressure rate and sack numbers (3.5) dipped. Now he’s likely headed toward a one-year, prove-it deal. — Chad Graff

Age: 27 Height: 6-2 Weight: 327

A four-year starter in Seattle (the last three seasons at left guard), Lewis might be a little bit heavy, which affected his stamina late in games. But that size helps him get significant push in the run game. As a pass blocker, he’s inconsistent adjusting laterally but holds up very well against power rushes. His agility is what worries me the most, but for teams that prioritize a downhill run game, he’d be a good fit. — Mueller

Age: 27 Height: 6-5 Weight: 312

Williams battled nagging injuries in college and early in his NFL career, and then he missed the second half of 2023 with a torn ACL. He has shown impressive stretches while playing guard and center, but durability is a significant concern. — David DeChant

Age: 36 Height: 6-2 Weight: 265

The ageless wonder wants to come back to Philly for what he called a one-year “farewell tour.” It’s hard to project Graham’s future as anything other than 1) playing for the Eagles in 2024 or 2) retiring. His snap share has steadily diminished from 69 percent in 2020 to 33 percent in 2023, but he’s still an efficient pass rusher. — Brooks Kubena

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 235

Rudolph showed enough while starting the Steelers’ last three regular-season games to earn a shot to compete. He showed improved poise and pocket awareness to go with his impressive deep ball ability, which was evident in college at Oklahoma State. He is a viable backup in the right scheme. — Mueller

Age: 32 Height: 6-1 Weight: 236

Hicks was a captain and called the Vikings’ defensive signals, and he performed admirably on the field. He’s not the fastest nor the most physical, but his discipline and experience will keep any defense in check. Although he missed four games in 2023, he previously hadn’t missed a game since 2018, putting early-career injury woes behind him. — Alec Lewis

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 255

Armstrong would get a lot more attention if the Cowboys didn’t already have Micah Parsons, DeMarcus Lawrence and Sam Williams. He is a good player, finishing second on the team in sacks each of the last two seasons (8.5 in 2022, 7.5 in 2023) despite making only six total starts. His price tag will likely be too high for Dallas. — Jon Machota

Age: 31 Height: 6-4 Weight: 235

Brissett was remarkably efficient in relief of Sam Howell — leading touchdowns on five consecutive possessions — but that shouldn’t be the expectation. If Washington brings him back on a one- or two-year contract, he would mentor whichever rookie it drafts at No. 2. — Ben Standig

Age: 34 Height: 6-1 Weight: 212

Gipson has been a revelation for the 49ers since they signed him during the 2022 preseason following Jimmie Ward’s injury. The Niners retained Gipson for $2.9 million last season. With Talanoa Hufanga rehabbing from a torn ACL, another one-year deal might make sense if Gipson chooses to continue playing. — David Lombardi

Age: 29 Height: 6-1 Weight: 235

Walker struggled with a handful of injuries late in the 2023 season after missing most of 2022 with a quad injury. The linebacker position seems to rank last in positional priority with the folks running the Browns, so he likely won’t be back. — Zac Jackson

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 234

Tranquill was a key part of the Chiefs’ deep linebacker rotation, tying for third on the team in tackles in the regular season despite playing just 57 percent of the snaps. He’s a dangerous blitzer who excels at creating negative plays, logging 9.5 sacks, 15 QB hits, 17 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles over the last two seasons. — David DeChant

Age: 29 Height: 6-5 Weight: 312

Risner hit the open market last offseason and was not as sought after as he hoped. He signed with Minnesota three weeks into September and became a starter at left guard in Week 7. Pass protection is his strength. The Vikings are likely to want Risner back, but they won’t be the only team interested. — Alec Lewis

Age: 29 Height: 6-0 Weight: 179

Wallace had six interceptions and 24 passes defensed in his two seasons with the Steelers, who would love to have him back but won’t consider him a high priority. He shouldn’t be in high demand, which would allow the Steelers to snoop around for somebody younger with more upside. — Mark Kaboly

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 225

Minshew stepped into a less-than-ideal situation after Anthony Richardson’s injury and played winning football in 2023. He finished with 18 total TDs (15 passing, three rushing) against 14 total turnovers (nine interceptions, five lost fumbles), so it wasn’t always pretty, but I think Indianapolis should prioritize bringing him back. — James Boyd

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 236

An instinctive player, Jewell has the football IQ to administrate the defense, make calls and get others lined up. He relies on his reads and reactions more than speed and range, but he shows a consistent nose for the ball and has been productive. He won’t make plays beyond the scope of the scheme, but his discipline will be welcome anywhere. — Mueller

Age: 30 Height: 6-4 Weight: 260

Swaim is the best and most consistent run blocker of all tight ends in this class. He’s physical, strong and very willing — which should not be assumed as a given, even at the NFL level. He does the dirty work. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-10 Weight: 210

Released by the Vikings, Cook flopped with the Jets before being waived, then went unclaimed on waivers and played sparingly for Baltimore in one playoff game. As low as his stock is now, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry in 2022 and doesn’t turn 30 until August 2025. — David DeChant

Age: 27 Height: 5-11 Weight: 203

Osborn had a disappointing season, dropping seven passes, according to PFF. But he was rarely the primary read, and he’s a strong blocker and runner after the catch. He’s probably in line for a short-term deal between $5 million and $8 million. — Alec Lewis

Age: 25 Height: 6-1 Weight: 205

Injured for most of the 2023 season, Henderson — who was a first-round pick by the Jaguars on 2020 — has the height, weight and skill set to be a quality cornerback. He just needs a larger body of work. He would rank higher if healthy. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-2 Weight: 229

Untendered by the Packers as a restricted free agent last offseason, Barnes joined the Cardinals and flashed as a part-time starter, logging 55 tackles and six passes defensed in only 408 defensive snaps. Arizona has plenty of cap space if it wants to keep him. — David DeChant

Age: 39 Height: 6-6 Weight: 245

I find it hard to believe any team is going to make Flacco its starter, but he played well enough to draw interest — and maybe command more money than the Browns want to pay a backup QB. Given Flacco’s popularity in the locker room, can Cleveland risk bringing him back in case Deshaun Watson struggles, or would that undermine Watson? — Zac Jackson

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 196

Davis has ideal physical traits. The Chargers saw those traits turn into congruous production only in spurts, however, as he excelled late in 2022 but struggled in 2023. A line-up-and-play, heavy-man-coverage system could be a better fit than Brandon Staley’s scheme was. — Daniel Popper

Age: 26 Height: 6-2 Weight: 203

A starter from Day 1 despite being drafted in the sixth round, Fuller has been productive and does a good job of minimizing damage on the back end. He is not a dynamic athlete, nor is he physical, but he shows good understanding and instincts. He just lacks the burst and ideal play speed to be a long-term answer for the Rams. — Mueller

Age: 26 Height: 6-0 Weight: 208

Rapp was signed to be the Bills’ third safety, but when he was asked to start, he struggled. He was a touch too late on some big-play attempts and accrued some reckless personal foul penalties. However, Rapp is still young and could find a stable starting role for a modest salary this offseason. — Joe Buscaglia

Age: 30 Height: 6-4 Weight: 231

Winston has fit well in the Saints’ locker room, but he’s been uneven in 21 appearances (10 starts) with New Orleans over the last four seasons. His best stretch came during seven games as a starter in 2021 before tearing his ACL. His coach that season, Sean Payton, might need a new QB in Denver … — David DeChant

Age: 30 Height: 6-2 Weight: 305

Rankins has a strong all-around skill set, providing versatility in where he can align and his style of play. He’s agile and can get an edge as an inside rusher. He also plays well with his hands and shows good range, even outside the tackle box. His effort and anticipation remain strengths as he enters his ninth season. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 200

An All-Pro special-teamer in 2022, Reaves’ 2023 season ended early due to a torn ACL, but he could be a useful third safety for somebody. — Mueller

Age: 28 Height: 6-1 Weight: 312

A regular starter in 2021 and 2022 with the Rams, Gaines was relegated to a backup role in Tampa, where his numbers dipped while playing behind Vita Vea, Calijah Kancey and Logan Hall. He’s not much of a pass rusher, but he should provide value in a D-line rotation. — David DeChant

Age: 28 Height: 5-11 Weight: 185

Jackson is coming off his worst season with the Giants since signing a three-year, $39 million contract in 2021. His durability concerns (18 games missed from 2020 to 2021) continued in New York, as he missed 14 games in three seasons. He can still cover, and his flexibility to play in the slot adds value, but he struggles with tackling. — Dan Duggan

Age: 29 Height: 6-2 Weight: 203

All signs point to the end in Cincinnati for Boyd, who should have a market among teams searching for a slot receiver. His reliability and savvy will be gold for any team grooming a young quarterback. He’ll probably end up with a multiyear deal in the $7-9 million per season range, which would be too rich for the Bengals’ balance sheet. — Paul Dehner Jr.

Age: 31 Height: 6-5 Weight: 242

Gregory is still a talented pass rusher. He can turn the corner, but he can also turn straight-line speed into power. He struggles to hold a disciplined edge and maintain leverage against ball carriers and scrambling QBs. He gets caught inside consistently. But his effort with the 49ers was good, and he could provide value as a situational pass rusher on a cheap deal somewhere. — Mueller

Age: 29 Height: 5-11 Weight: 210

Owens entered the starting lineup because of injury in 2023 but held onto his starting spot. Outside of a couple of glaring missed tackles against the Chargers and 49ers, he wasn’t a liability, although the Packers could use more of a game-changer at the position. — Matt Schneidman

Age: 27 Height: 6-4 Weight: 228

Lock has appeared in only four games (two starts) since 2021, highlighted by his 92-yard, game-winning touchdown drive against the Eagles this season. He remains turnover-prone (three INTs on 76 attempts in 2023), but perhaps that shining moment will draw a few suitors. — David DeChant

Age: 28 Height: 6-2 Weight: 215

Known primarily for his blocking, Brown posted a career-high 567 receiving yards in just 10 games in 2023, averaging 17.2 yards per catch (fourth-best among all players with at least 30 receptions). His skill set should interest teams that need a quality third or fourth receiver. — David DeChant

Age: 33 Height: 6-6 Weight: 281

Sturdily built with strong hands, Gholston has been a quality run defender throughout his career, playing base end in a 4-3 scheme or five- and three-technique in a 3-4. His snaps dipped in 2023, but he should still contribute to a rotation somewhere. — David DeChant

Age: 27 Height: 6-3 Weight: 225

An undersized edge rusher in college, Baun played almost exclusively off the ball for the Saints in his first three seasons. Back on the edge in 2023, he showed flashes, beating Penei Sewell cleanly for his first career sack and posting four QB hits and 11 pressures over the final six games. Perhaps another team will provide a better fit. — David DeChant

Age: 30 Height: 6-4 Weight: 222

Mariota remains a solid backup with good mobility, which is useful behind one of the league’s more mobile starters in Jalen Hurts. Will the Eagles retain him, or will they prefer 2023 sixth-round pick Tanner McKee (or someone else)? — Brooks Kubena

Undeniable

Relive  the Kansas City Chiefs’ unforgettable 2023 championship season. Undeniable takes fans from training camp through the final whistle in Las Vegas.

Relive the Kansas City Chiefs’ unforgettable 2023 championship season.

Nate Taylor, Dan Pompei, Zak Keefer and The Athletic NFL Staff

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— The Athletic’s James Boyd, Joe Buscaglia, Paul Dehner Jr., Michael-Shawn Dugar, Dan Duggan, Chad Graff, Zac Jackson, Mark Kaboly, Josh Kendall, Brooks Kubena, David Lombardi, Jon Machota, Daniel Popper, Tashan Reed, Matt Schneidman, Ben Standig and Jeff Zrebiec contributed to this story.

(Top illustration: Daniel Goldfarb / The Athletic; photos of, from left, Kirk Cousins, Brian Burns and Saquon Barkley: Stephen Maturen, David Jensen / Getty Images, Michael Owens / Associated Press)

The NFL offseason began Sunday night after the Kansas City Chiefs beat the San Francisco 49ers 25-22 to claim the Super Bowl LVIII title and (only slightly less importantly) the top spot in our postseason power rankings.

That means that all the fan bases that have been tuning out as their teams were eliminated from playoff contention or the playoffs are now back in the game. Hope is alive again for everyone with free agency and the draft coming into view.

With that in mind, we’re resetting our power rankings by combining some of the old (last season’s results) and some of the new (who’s getting a stud quarterback back, who might get a new coach lift, who has salary-cap space, etc.) to set the field going forward.

1. Kansas City Chiefs

Patrick Mahomes, who was 8-for-8 passing on the drive that just won the Super Bowl, won his third Super Bowl MVP trophy and is one of five quarterbacks in NFL history to win at least three Super Bowl titles (and he was behind by double digits in all three of those games). He is 15-3 in the playoffs in his six-year career and has advanced at least to the AFC Championship Game in all six of those seasons. Kansas City has $24 million in salary-cap space but might as well use it all to make sure the defense stays stocked because Mahomes will make it work on offense.

2. San Francisco 49ers

This will be a tough week, but the future will be fine. The 49ers are over the salary cap (by just $3.7 million) but have all of their significant offensive weapons under contract. They also still have Kyle Shanahan, which despite what everyone is saying today, is a good thing. Shanahan is 72-54 as a head coach. San Francisco is second in the league in yards per play (5.9) and seventh in scoring (25.04) since Shanahan became the head coach in 2017, according to TruMedia.

GO DEEPER

Kyle Shanahan defends 49ers’ decision to take the ball to start overtime of Super Bowl 58

Everyone’s favorite underdog had the 49ers on the ropes in the NFC Championship Game, has money to spend ($47 million in cap space) and, shockingly, still has offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who rebuffed the Washington Commanders to stay in Detroit. Every significant offensive contributor remains under contract on a team that finished fifth in the league in scoring (27.35 ppg). When coach Dan Campbell said after the loss to the Niners that it would be “twice as hard” to get back to that point next season, it wasn’t poor-mouthing, it was just his first motivational speech of the 2024 season.

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson just won his second NFL MVP award, but can he get Baltimore over the hump in the playoffs? (Tommy Gilligan / USA Today)

A disappointing ending (scoring 10 points in the AFC Championship Game against the underdog Chiefs) shouldn’t overshadow the fact the Ravens, who have $7.3 million cap space, remain the class of the AFC’s B flight (which includes any team that doesn’t employ Patrick Mahomes). There won’t be any Lamar Jackson contract drama this offseason, which will allow Jackson and offensive coordinator Todd Monken to strengthen their connection. That’s good news for the Ravens considering Jackson is coming off the second-best season of his career and second NFL MVP award. The quarterback’s yards per attempt (7.9) this year were a career-high and his passer rating (101.6) and touchdown passes (27) were the second best of his career.

The Texans are one of the big movers since the last publication of these rankings. Rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud put 45 points on one of the league’s most aggressive defenses in the playoffs, beating the Browns 45-14 in the wild-card round, and was named offensive rookie of the year. His offensive coordinator, Bobby Slowik, is back after taking head coaching interviews, and Houston has $57.4 million in cap space.

A Matt LaFleur Appreciation Post: The Packers head coach somehow is the forgotten man in the Kyle Shanahan-Sean McVay conversation. LaFleur is 56-27 in five seasons in Green Bay. That .675 winning percentage is better than Shanahan or McVay, not to mention every other active coach in the league other than Jim Harbaugh (.695). Until last season, Aaron Rodgers got the credit for LaFleur’s accomplishments, but the Packers (who are $2.9 million above the salary cap) are doing it now with 25-year-old Jordan Love.

Things get a lot harder for Buffalo starting this offseason because Josh Allen’s cap hit just went from $18.6 million to $47 million, and it will be north of $40 million for the next five seasons. It’s why the Bills already are $51.3 million over the 2024 cap. The good news is they still have Allen, and he’s the reason Buffalo sits with Baltimore on the AFC’s second shelf. Remember, the Bills finished the season fourth in point margin (plus-140) despite six regular-season losses.

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8. Cleveland Browns

Deshaun Watson is back, but we’re all still trying to figure out if that’s a good thing. Kevin Stefanski earned NFL coach of the year honors by getting the Browns to the playoffs with no Nick Chubb and with Joe Flacco at quarterback after Watson’s season-ending injury. Watson has started only 12 games since joining the Browns two years ago (8-4 record), and he’s 57th in the league in EPA per attempt (minus-.07) in that time, according to TruMedia. Still, the Browns, who are $19.6 million over the cap, have a great defense and Chubb returning from a devastating knee injury.

Are you ready for a lot of Tua Tagovailoa talk? Well, you better be. The Dolphins quarterback is under contract for 2024 at a $23.2 million cap hit, but that’s the last year of his deal and “Should Miami give Tua a market-setting deal?” is going to be one of the questions of the offseason. The Dolphins aren’t exactly rolling in spending money. They are $51.9 million over the salary cap at the moment and should pay defensive tackle Christian Wilkins this offseason.

Tua Tagovailoa got on stage with Darius Rucker to play the guitar & sing Wagon Wheel in Vegas

Daniel Jones was in the crowd cheering him on

(via @kasideekarsten) pic.twitter.com/LKizs1IVWs

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) February 10, 2024

No team has moved up this list more than the Bengals, who not only have $59.4 million cap space but are getting Joe Burrow back from a season-ending wrist injury. Offensive coordinator Brian Callahan is gone, but Burrow’s return more than makes up for it. Burrow is 27-15 as a starter in the last three seasons and cheap(-ish) for one more year. Burrow’s cap hit for 2024 is $29.7 million. After that, it goes over $46 million for each of the next five seasons.

The Cowboys are allowed to be in the top half of these rankings only because the playoffs are over. Dallas, which is $19.7 million over the salary cap, has won 12 regular-season games in each of the last three years but only one playoff game in that span. Dak Prescott and Mike McCarthy are back, looking to move past last month’s embarrassing 48-32 loss to the Packers, but running back Tony Pollard is an unrestricted free agent.

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Everyone of note is under contract, and the Rams have $27.7 million in salary-cap space. They won seven of their last nine regular-season games and came within a point of upsetting the Lions in the playoffs. Barring an unexpected (but you could see it at his age) retirement by Matthew Stafford, the Rams will enter 2024 as a dark-horse conference championship contender.

Did we underestimate the Bucs all season long? Did the Eagles just quit? Tampa Bay’s 32-9 win over Philadelphia in the wild-card round raised questions about both teams. Questions that probably won’t be answered until next season starts, but the Buccaneers do at least deserve some recognition here. Tampa Bay — which has $36.9 million in salary-cap space, some of which certainly will go to re-signing Baker Mayfield — has gone to the playoffs each of the last four seasons, winning the division title three times and a Super Bowl once in that span.

In a world where Houston quarterback C.J. Stroud didn’t exist, Indianapolis would be feeling very good about itself right now. The Colts are getting quarterback Anthony Richardson back from his season-ending shoulder surgery and are believers in Shane Steichen after his first year as head coach. Throw in $58.9 million of salary-cap space to plug holes, and Colts fans can talk themselves into a brewing rivalry with Stroud and the Texans.

15. Philadelphia Eagles

A case could be made to put the Eagles just about anywhere on this list. Many of the reasons they went to the Super Bowl a season ago (Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith) are still around, but questions abound. They have $20.2 million in salary-cap space but may lose Jason Kelce, Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham to retirement and/or free agency. Then there’s the coaching staff overhaul that ended with Kellen Moore in charge of the offense and Vic Fangio in charge of the defense. How good are the Eagles? Who knows?

Kirk Cousins is the top quarterback on the free-agent market. Will he return to the Vikings? (David Berding / Getty Images)

This position is Kirk Cousins dependent. The 35-year-old free agent is coming off a torn Achilles tendon, but he’s still going to be the hottest quarterback commodity on the market. The Vikings have $24.7 million in cap space and will create as much more as they need to to get Cousins back. He’s expressed his contentment with Minnesota, and why not? In his two seasons playing for Kevin O’Connell, Cousins is third in the league in passing yards (275.12) and passing touchdowns (1.88) per game, according to TruMedia.

Robert Saleh should just pretend last year never happened. Seriously. Make it a bit starting now. Pretend this is Aaron Rodgers’ first season with the team. Claim he’s never heard the names Pat McAfee or Zach Wilson. Lean into it. The Jets have $5 million in salary-cap space, the No. 10 pick in the draft and a healthy Rodgers. New York still has Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, but maybe Saleh can pretend that’s not real either.

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Seattle gets a new head coach bump thanks to Mike Macdonald’s hiring, but it’s still in one of the league’s toughest divisions with the 49ers, Rams and perhaps ascendant Cardinals. The Seahawks need to create some salary-cap room (they’re minus-$5.2 million at the moment) and hope Geno Smith has a bounce-back season. The quarterback’s passer rating (100.8 to 92.1), touchdowns (32 to 20) and yards per attempt (7.5 to 7.3) all went down after a surprising 2022, according to TruMedia.

Mike Tomlin checked the “winning season” box again, but that’s about all the Steelers got out of the season. They weren’t competitive against Buffalo in the first round of the playoffs, and they don’t seem to know if Kenny Pickett or Mason Rudolph is the quarterback. Something everyone in Pittsburgh can look forward to, though, are some great sideline shots of new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith and mercurial wide receiver George Pickens throughout the season. Pittsburgh is $16 million over the cap.

Yes, Jim Harbaugh is quirky, but only Guy Chamberlin (who coached the Canton Bulldogs among others in the 1920s; I had to look it up), John Madden, Vince Lombardi and George Allen have a better career winning percentage in the NFL than Harbaugh’s .695. He also has Justin Herbert. There are issues, though, including an aging roster and the fact the Chargers are $45.8 million over the cap.

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No team will have a longer offseason than the Jaguars, who lost five of their last six games to fall out of playoff contention. Jacksonville, which has $11.3 million in cap space, has only two more cheap years of Trevor Lawrence. The quarterback will be an $11 million cap hit this year and then either play on his fifth-year option or a new deal, either of which will be a bigger number. The Jags pick 17th in the first round.

The Raiders were 5-4 under interim head coach Antonio Pierce, which was good enough to make him full-time head coach Antonio Pierce. Now, he has his work cut out for him. The Raiders have some money to spend ($36 million in cap space) and the No. 13 pick in the upcoming draft, but they probably need a quarterback and are a long way from being able to compete with the division-dominating Chiefs.

It’s hard to see where this team will find a solution at quarterback. Sean Payton still won’t say if Russell Wilson will be back, but things aren’t trending in that direction. The Broncos are set to pick 12th so they’ll either have to trade up or decide they can live with one of the second-tier quarterback prospects if they want a rookie quarterback. They are $23.9 million over the salary cap and will take another big cap hit if they cut Wilson ($85 million in dead money if he’s released before June 1), so attracting a name in free agency seems unlikely.

What the Bears decide to do with quarterback Justin Fields and the first pick in the 2024 draft will set the NFL offseason dominoes in motion. (Michael Reaves / Getty Images)

Matt Eberflus is coming back. Now, what about Justin Fields? Thanks to last year’s trade with the Carolina Panthers, the Bears have the No. 1 pick, which means they can take Caleb Williams (or Drake Maye or even Jayden Daniels, but probably Williams) or bank on more development by Fields. Either way, this is going to be an offseason of additions. The Bears have the Nos. 1 and 9 picks in the first round and $46.9 million of cap space.

Mike Vrabel is out, and Brian Callahan and a more “collaborative” mindset are in. Will that and $68.1 million in salary-cap space be enough to get Tennessee back into the playoff hunt after two years out of the mix? That depends mostly on quarterback Will Levis, who started nine games last year and whom Callahan, the former Bengals offensive coordinator, was hired to elevate. The Titans were 3-6 in Levis’ starts.

26. Washington Commanders

The Commanders’ offseason of optimism — new owner, No. 2 pick, $73.6 million in cap space — lost some momentum when Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson seemed to leave them at the head coaching altar late in the process. It may turn out that Washington stumbled into a great hire with Dan Quinn, whose positive attitude should help a franchise that hasn’t won a playoff game since 2005, or it may be a bust. A lot could depend on whether Quinn’s offensive coordinator hire, Kliff Kingsbury, works out.

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Jerod Mayo is on the clock, and it seems as if he’s suddenly in charge of the first round of the NFL Draft. The Patriots pick No. 3. Quarterbacks are considered locks to be taken in the first two picks, but things get interesting at No. 3. Will Mayo decide it’s time to move on from Mac Jones and draft a quarterback or will he take Marvin Harrison Jr. to help Jones’ development? What New England does with its $66 million in cap space in March may give us some clue about that.

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate the Saints for always playing their role. General manager Mickey Loomis scoffs at the salary cap, and thus New Orleans is in the worst cap shape in the league heading into the offseason ($83.9 million over the cap). The other thing Loomis always does is figure it out by the time the fall arrives, although Saints fans might be starting to wonder about the long-term strategy. New Orleans hasn’t made the playoffs or won double-digit games in the last three seasons.

The Falcons have a new head coach, with Raheem Morris taking over for the fired Arthur Smith, and $25.8 million in salary-cap space. What they don’t have is a quarterback. That’s why they will be attached to every available one until the question is settled. Justin Fields? Sure, he could be an option. Kirk Cousins? He’s familiar with the new offensive system. Trading up from No. 8 in the draft to get Jayden Daniels? Might be an option. That’s a preview of the next two months for the Falcons.

Daniel Jones will count at least $41.6 million toward the salary cap each of the next three seasons. The Giants have the No. 6 pick in the first round. They have to at least consider making a change at quarterback. They also have to figure out what to do about Saquon Barkley. They couldn’t get a long-term deal done with their star running back last offseason but have $21.8 million in cap space available they want to try harder this offseason.

31. Arizona Cardinals

This is the offseason the Cardinals have been waiting for since last offseason. Arizona has $41.9 million in cap space and has three picks in the top 35 selections and seven of the top 104. No team will get a bigger facelift before the start of next season. One place where there won’t be a change is quarterback as the Cardinals have committed to keeping Kyler Murray.

32. Carolina Panthers

The Panthers hired a new head coach, Dave Canales, to fix their still-kind-of-new quarterback, Bryce Young. Canales was the surprise hire of the offseason, coming to Carolina after only one year of calling plays at division-rival Tampa Bay. Either he blew the Panthers away in the interview process or mercurial owner David Tepper was worried he wasn’t going to be able to attract a bigger-name hire. Carolina has $28.6 million in cap space heading into the offseason.

(Top photo: Michael Owens / Getty Images)

The biggest Super Bowl in history came to life in the second quarter in Las Vegas, with Travis Kelce appearing to battle his coach Andy Reid after the Chiefs got off to a stuttering start against the San Francisco 49ers.

After the first quarter ended without either team scoring, San Francisco took the lead early in the second quarter when Jake Moody made Super Bowl history by converting the longest punt in its history at 55 yards. It would also have looked good from a longer term perspective.

And then things started going wrong for the Chiefs, even if things weren't really going well up until that point.

Mahomes picked off Mecole Hardman with a 52-yard bomb, but on the next play, wide receiver Isiah Pacheco made an uncharacteristic fumble. He apologized to every member of his teammate on the bench at Allegiant Stadium.

But as the Chiefs left the field, Kelce seemed to have an argument with the coach he speaks so often about how much he respects.

Swift returned to take her place in the $1 million Kelce family suite, with her crew and his family sitting one row behind her

Kelce is tackled by San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Chase Young during the early parts of the first quarter

Young then broke through the Chiefs O-Line and sacked Patrick Mahomes, while 49ers teammate Nick Bose celebrates

The 34-year-old Kelce, one of the Chiefs' star men, looked typically cool and collected during warm-ups

Reid almost seemed to lose his balance for a moment when Kelce bumped into him, Taylor Swift's boyfriend practically holding his arm to keep him upright as he screamed.

It was a repeat of the Christmas scenes that were so shocking when the Chiefs meekly surrendered in a home loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Then on the next offense, Mahomes loses 10 yards due to intentional grounding at a time when they needed the quarterback to step up.

In the first quarter, both teams had stuttered as they tried to switch gears.

49ers running back Christian McCaffrey, so often imperious with the ball under his arm, fumbled for the first time since Week 7, a streak of more than three and a half months that ended early in the biggest stretch of them all.

These were extremely unusual errors for both him and Pacheco, who lost the ball in the second inning.

But the Chiefs had no early success of their own to shout about and Chiefs quarterback Mahomes was sacked when Chase Young broke through the Chiefs O-Line.

The action started shortly before 7:00 PM EST (4:00 PM local time) at Allegiant Stadium, after country music icon Reba McEntire sang the national anthem. Swift had returned from Japan for the match after playing four consecutive nights on her Eras Tour in Tokyo

She'll be lumped into a suite — which boyfriend Travis reportedly paid $1 million for — with the rest of the Kelce family, her own mom and dad, and friends Ice Spice and Blake Lively.

She was seen giving Kelce's older brother Jason a hug as they were reunited and he then introduced himself to American rapper Ice Spice – scenes that NFL fans never thought possible when the season started in September.

The Chiefs won the pregame coin toss and deferred, leaving the 49ers with the ball in the battle for the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

For Travis and the Chiefs, the game finally getting underway draws a line under two weeks of intense build-up, with the tight end in particular receiving a new wave of attention thanks to his girlfriend.

A win for Kansas City would see the team join a unique club of consecutive Super Bowl winners, but history is also at stake for San Francisco.

If they win tonight, they will join the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers for a record six Super Bowl titles.

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (center) gives a late team talk in Kansas City as Kelce stood next to him

Brittany Mahomes, the wife of Chiefs quarterback Patrick, took the field with their children before the game

Rapper Jay-Z stood on the field at Allegiant Stadium in Vegas ahead of the Chiefs-49ers game

The Swifties still entered the stadium for the biggest night on the American sports calendar

While there is a lot of attention on the Chiefs, the 49ers could seal a record-tying sixth Super Bowl with a win

Prince Harry made no mention of his father’s cancer when he popped up in Las Vegas to make an ultra-British and gag-filled speech comparing rugby to American football at a NFL awards ceremony last night.

The Duke of Sussex flew to Sin City just 24 hours after landing in LA following a 11,000-mile round trip to London to see King Charles for 45 minutes.

Harry was not expected to be seen again until he travels with Meghan to Canada next week for an Invictus Games event but shocked the audience as he turned up to hand out the Walter Payton Man of the Year award.

The winner, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward, was just as surprised to see him, hugging the duke, before he exclaimed: ‘Prince freakin Harry, I’m just shocked, that’s Prince Harry’.

Harry appeared in public for the first time since his father’s cancer diagnosis on Thursday night – but there was no mention of his father, who has started cancer treatment. Hours earlier Prince William thanked the public for their support when he attended an awards ceremony with Tom Cruise in London . 

Harry has famously been to Vegas before. Going on a lads holiday before meeting Meghan where he reportedly ‘ran up a £30,000’ bill at a luxury hotel, went to a wet and wild pool party with J-Lo and was later pictured covering his privates during a late-night game of strip billiards.

But 12 years on he was back in Vegas with a big grin on his face and as the audience cheered him, Harry joked about that the United States ‘stole rugby from us and you made it your own’. 

Poking fun at what might have happened when American Football was created, he said: ‘Instead of passing it backwards, just pass it forwards. Why not wear pads and a helmet?’  Of course, have an offence and defence, that makes sense, and why not have a breather every 15 seconds? And you know what? Instead of a 10-month season, let’s just make it 18 weeks. Genius’.

He went on: ‘All kidding aside, what you guys do on and off the field is truly remarkable. You are role models for millions in the way you carry yourselves and the way you give back. This final award, the highest honour, is all about serving your community, and there is one special man we’d like to pay tribute to now.’

An animated Cameron Hayward of the Pittsburgh Steelers poses for a portrait after winning the Walter Payton Man of the year with Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex

The Duke of Sussex , 39, handed the Walter Payton Man of the Year award to Pittsburgh Steelers football player Cameron Heyward

Cameron yelled: ‘Prince freakin Harry, I’m just shocked, that’s Prince Harry’ when he saw him

Harry was full of beans during his speech – but made no mention of his father’s cancer battle

Prince Harry, middle, presenter of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award talks to winner Pittsburgh Steelers’ Cameron Heyward, left, as Keegan-Michael Key looks on

He made a shock appearance at the 2024 NFL Honors ceremony at the Resorts World Theater in Las Vegas on Thursday evening

ameron Hayward (C) of the Pittsburgh Steelers poses for a portrait after winning the Walter Payton Man of the year with Keegan-Michael Key (L) and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex at the 13th Annual NFL Honors

Prince Harry arrives back at LAX after a short trip to London to briefly see his father

Prince Harry flew into London on a ten-hour flight from Los Angeles on Tuesday and arrived at the royal residence at 2.42pm before spending around 45 minutes with Charles after the King’s surprise cancer disclosure. 

Harry, who has been estranged from his father and brother Prince William since leaving royal life, then quickly jetted back to LA and was in Vegas the following day. 

Doctors discovered the King’s cancer whilst treating the monarch for an enlarged prostate just over a week prior, according to the Palace.

He returned to his Sandringham estate to recuperate following treatment, arriving via the royal helicopter at around 4.20pm.

He and Harry had a ‘brief meeting’ before the King and Camilla were driven to Buckingham Palace where a helicopter was waiting to take them back to Sandringham in Norfolk.

The Duke is not believed to have seen his brother William or sister-in-law Kate Middleton, who is recovering from her abdominal surgery and on extended leave.

‘William has shown today that he has disowned Harry, he doesn’t want to know him, and he probably doesn’t even like him anymore. Harry is just not part of his life,’ royal expert Jennie Bond told DailyMail.com.

‘That rift is so deep now, and that has been shown by Harry being here and them not meeting, so deep that I really do wonder if it can ever, ever be mended.’

Harry had flown more than 5,000 miles from Los Angeles to London after his father informed him of his diagnosis. He traveled without his two young children Prince Archie, four, and Princess Lilibet, two.

It was their first formal meeting in person since the late Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022.

The prince did attend Charles’s coronation at Westminster Abbey in May last year but was not seen interacting with the newly-crowned King and Queen.

Prince Harry flew into London on a ten-hour flight from Los Angeles on Tuesday and arrived at the royal residence at 2.42pm before spending around 45 minutes with Charles 

Meghan Markle was all smiles as she drove around near her $14 million Montecito home on Wednesday

The Duchess was out and about while waiting for her husband Prince Harry to return from London where he was visiting his cancer-stricken father King Charles

After meeting with his son, King Charles left Clarence House with Queen Camilla on Tuesday

The quick visit did not feature a reunion with his brother Prince William with the rift between the two since Harry stepped back from royal duties still open

A palace source indicated to The Times that Harry and the King’s meeting was brief because Charles was tired from a procedure on Monday.

Charles was said to have been unhappy as he was left ‘kicking his heels’ waiting for Harry to arrive as he delayed his trip to Sandringham ‘ for ‘peace and quiet.’ 

But they said the King, 75, and Queen, 76, were ‘coping magnificently’, adding: ‘If you didn’t know what was the matter, you wouldn’t have any idea that he had any condition at all.’

As Harry was in London, Meghan was thought to be have been at home in Montecito with her kids while virtually all of Southern California was under flash flood advisories and watches.

On Wednesday, she was spotted driving a Range Rover in the LA area looking carefree despite her husband’s trip to London to visit the ailing King. 

The Duchess of Sussex flashed a smile as she drove around near her $14 million Montecito home. Meghan looked relaxed from behind the wheel of her Range Rover in a baseball cap and dark, oversized sunglasses, and sipped from a coffee mug as she drove along. 

Harry jetted back to LA hours after Meghan was spotted driving around town. The next day, the Duke was in Vegas for the NFL Honors where he poked fun at the sport.   

‘Really love how you stole Rugby from us,’ Harry, a noted Rugby enthusiast, said. 

He then joked about the minor differences, such as passing it forward in football, instead of backward as in Rugby. Or how the NFL needs a break every 15 seconds of play. 

But, his real reason on stage was to honor Heyward with one of the league’s top honors. 

‘All you guys do on and off the field is truly remarkable. You are role models for millions in the way you carry yourselves and in the way you give back,’ Harry said. 

‘I want to say thank you to the Pittsburgh Steelers for giving me this opportunity,’ he said

Heyward seemed surprised by the man presenting the award calling him Prince ‘freaking’ Harry. 

‘I want to say thank you to the Pittsburgh Steelers for giving me this opportunity,’ the defensive lineman said. 

‘Mike T (Tomlin), it’s an honor to be coached by you. I couldn’t play for any other coach. To my teammates, I’m thankful to be your teammate.’ 

This was the sixth time the Steelers nominated Heyward for the award. Heyward created the Heyward House Foundation that supports several initiatives in the Pittsburgh area.

The foundation also honors his father, Craig ‘Ironhead’ Heyward, a fullback who played 11 seasons in the NFL. He died in 2006 at 39 of brain cancer.

The Walter Payton Man of the Year award is given to player’s with a commitment to philanthropy and community impact, as well as excellence on the field.