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FanNation: Offseason Grades for Every NFL Team
We’ve reached that time of the offseason when it’s time to grade every decision and every move that’s been made for the past six months for every team.
We’re only three weeks away from the Jacksonville Jaguars and Las Vegas Raiders reporting for training camp, so what better time to evaluate all 32 NFL teams.
Here’s a closer look at what you might have missed this offseason and what it means:
NFC WEST
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Key additions: Allen Robinson II, WR (FA); Bobby Wagner, LB (FA)
Key losses: Von Miller, OLB (FA); Darious Williams, CB (FA); Sebastian Joseph-Day, NT (FA); Austin Corbett, G (FA); Johnny Mundt, TE (FA); Orgonnia Okoronkwo, OLB (FA); Robert Woods, WR (trade); Andrew Whitworth, OT (retired), Johnny Hekker, P (released)
Offseason Grade: A. On the surface it looks like the Rams lost a lot of talent, but most of the losses have been replaced by either rookies or players waiting for an opportunity to prove themselves. The loss of Robert Woods resulted in an upgrade in Robinson II, and the loss of Whitworth will give Joseph Noteboom the chance to step into the starting role at left tackle. The biggest loss was Miller, who left for Buffalo. But the Rams were able to upgrade middle linebacker with Wagner.
The best thing the Rams did was re-sign stars Matthew Stafford, Aaron Donald and Cooper Kupp, moves that actually saved them cap space this offseason, and provides them an opportunity to compete for a second consecutive Super Bowl.
Biggest question: What will happen with Odell Beckham Jr.? Beckham remains the Rams biggest unsigned target, and given the role he played in last year’s Super Bowl run, the Rams would be wise to try and retain him heading into next year despite what his injury status might say. — Matt Galatzan
Fantasy fact: Kupp is coming off the greatest fantasy football season of all time among wide receivers, scoring 439.5 points. That passed the previous record set by Jerry Rice in 1995 when he scored 414.04 points. However, Rice did play one less game, and his 25.88 points per game average is still slightly higher than Kupp’s 25.85 fantasy points. — Michael Fabiano, Sports Illustrated
Ram Digest: More on Los Angeles’ offseason
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Key additions: Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, WR (trade); Will Hernandez, G (UFA); Keaontay Ingram, RB (draft); Josh Jackson, CB (FA); Trey McBride, TE (draft); Ben Niemann, LB (FA); Cameron Thomas, LB (draft); Myjai Sanders, LB (draft); Nick Vigil, LB (UFA); RB Darrel Williams, RB (FA)
Key losses: Chase Edmonds, RB (UFA); Max Garcia, C/G (UFA); Jordan Hicks, LB (released); Chandler Jones, LB (UFA); Christian Kirk, WR (UFA); Jordan Phillips, DL (released)
Offseason grade: B-. The Cardinals’ approach was panned in many places, but there was a method to their supposed madness. Large contracts weren’t a part of the plan because they did that with Jordan Phillips and linebacker Devon Kennard in 2020 and it wasn’t money well spent. Phillips is gone and Kennard had his deal reduced. With cap space needed soon for quarterback Kyler Murray, Brown, cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. and safety Jalen Thompson, the goal was to retain tight end Zach Ertz, running back James Conner, linebacker Dennis Gardeck, wide receiver A.J. Green, backup quarterback Colt McCoy and several others, and they were successful. Keeping key players and not creating additional needs is just as important as filling holes in the offseason. An underrated move could be the signing of Hernandez, who coaches hope will add needed physicality to the offensive line. That grade will improve when Murray is signed, which will end the distractions that began shortly after the 2021 season ended with a playoff loss to the Rams.
Biggest question: Aside from Murray’s deal, which is expected to be settled before camp opens July 26, call it a draw between adding depth to the secondary and figuring out the pass-rushing rotation aside from Markus Golden, who led the team with 11 sacks last season. The departure of Jones has resulted in numerous players hoping to fill the void, including Devon Kennard, Dennis Gardeck, Victor Dimukeje, Cameron Thomas, Myjai Sanders and Jesse Luketa. Meanwhile, the death of cornerback Jeff Gladney on Memorial Day has left the team searching for more depth as camp approaches. — Howard Balzer
Fantasy fact: Conner scored 18 total touchdowns with the Cardinals in 2021. It’s the second-most touchdowns scored by an Arizona back in the team’s history behind only David Johnson’s 20 in 2016. Conner’s 257.7 PPR fantasy points is third-most scored by a Cardinals runner behind Johnson (407.8) and Larry Centers (270.1) since 1990. — Fabiano
All Cardinals: More on Arizona’s offseason
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Key additions: Charvarius Ward, CB (FA), Ray-Ray McCloud, WR/PR (FA), Drake Jackson, DE (draft), Ty Davis-Price, RB (draft), Danny Gray, WR (draft)
Key losses: Alex Mack, C (retired); Laken Tomlinson, OG (FA); Tom Compton, OT (FA); Raheem Mostert, RB (FA); D.J. Jones, DT (FA); Arden Key, DE (FA); Jaquiski Tartt, SS (FA); K’Waun Williams, NCB (FA)
Offseason grade: C+. The 49ers had a modest offseason. In free agency, they addressed their two biggest needs—cornerback and special teams—but also lost three starters on their offensive line, two key contributors to their defensive line, two starters in the secondary and the fastest running back in the NFL when healthy. Most people expected the 49ers would be more aggressive considering they went to the NFC Championship Game last season and were one or two players away from a Super Bowl title. Plus, they had the ability to create roughly $17 million in cap space whenever they wanted this offseason simply by releasing Jimmy Garoppolo, but didn’t. For now, he’s still on the team and his contract remains on their books, and that has hindered their ability to make meaningful moves. To top it off, Deebo Samuel, arguably their best player, requested a trade at the beginning of the offseason and still hasn’t rescinded the request. He did attend mandatory minicamp, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he had a change of heart. It might just mean he didn’t want to pay more than $90,000 in fines. The 49ers need to extend Samuel before training camp starts in late July to avoid a major problem.
Biggest question: Who replaces K’Waun Williams? He had been the starter at nickelback for the 49ers since 2017, but he signed this offseason with the Broncos and the 49ers do not have a clear replacement. The starter during OTAs and minicamp was veteran Darqueze Dennard, who might not even make the team. The 49ers probably hope this year’s fifth-round pick Samuel Womack or last year’s fifth-round pick Deommodore Lenoir will win the job, but there’s no guarantee either player is a starting-caliber nickel. If the competition doesn’t produce one, the 49ers might need to sign one or trade for one before the regular season starts. — Grant Cohn
Fantasy fact: Elijah Mitchell led all 49ers running backs with 963 rushing yards during his rookie year, but can he do it again? The team has had a different rushing leader in each year under head coach Kyle Shanahan (2017-2022), though four of those runners were undrafted free agents. Unless injuries occur, I see Mitchell breaking this trend. — Fabiano
All 49ers: More on San Francisco’s offseason
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Key additions: Drew Lock, QB (trade); Kenneth Walker III, RB (draft); Noah Fant, TE (trade); Charles Cross, LT (draft); Abraham Lucas, RT (draft); Austin Blythe, C (FA); Shelby Harris, DT (trade); Quinton Jefferson, DT (FA); Uchenna Nwosu, LB (FA); Boye Mafe, LB (draft); Artie Burns, CB (FA); Coby Bryant, CB (draft); Tariq Woolen, CB (draft)
Key losses: Russell Wilson, QB (trade); Gerald Everett, TE (FA); Duane Brown, LT (FA); Brandon Shell, RT (FA); Ethan Pocic, C (FA); Carlos Dunlap, DE (released); Bobby Wagner, LB (released); D.J. Reed, CB (FA)
Offseason Grade: C-. Since the Seahawks traded the best quarterback in franchise history and released a future first ballot Hall of Famer in Wagner, the offseason may look like a complete failure from the outside. But while those losses undoubtedly will usher in a rebuild, GM John Schneider deserves some credit for quickly replenishing the roster with quality young talent, starting with the selection of Cross with the ninth selection in April’s draft. The team hit key positions of need, doubling up at the tackle, edge rush and cornerback positions, accelerating the rebuild process and helping fortify the roster for when the next franchise quarterback comes to town.
As for free agency, the Seahawks altered their approach by signing several younger free agents such as Nwosu and Burns who still may have untapped upside, particularly playing in a more aggressive defense under coordinator Clint Hurtt. Bringing Blythe in and reuniting him with offensive line coach Andy Dickerson could be an underrated move to further shore up the offensive line in front of either Geno Smith or Lock.
Biggest question: Who will be under center when the Seahawks begin the post-Russell Wilson era in Week 1? It’s been a decade since Seattle entered a season without No. 3 running the offense and with veteran journeymen Smith and Lock set to compete to replace him, quarterback remains a huge question mark for a team with plenty of talent on both sides of the football. Trading for Baker Mayfield also remains a possibility heading toward the start of the season.
Fantasy fact: As the starting quarterback in Denver in 2020, Lock’s top wide receiver averaged barely more than 10 fantasy points per game. In three starts for the Broncos in 2021, his top wideout averaged 9.6 fantasy points per game. If he ends up winning the top spot, fantasy fans should be very concerned about DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. — Fabiano
Seahawks Country: More on Seattle’s offseason
NFC EAST
DALLAS COWBOYS
Key additions: Dalton Schultz, TE (franchise tag); Leighton Vander Esch, LB (re-signed); Malik Hooker, S (FA); Durance Armstrong, DE (FA); Michael Gallup, WR (re-signed); James Washington, WR (FA); Jayron Kearse, S (re-signed); Tyler Smith, OT (draft)
Key losses: Amari Cooper, WR (trade), La’el Collins, OT (FA); Connor Williams, OL (FA); Cedrick Wilson, WR (FA); Randy Gregory, DE (FA)
Offseason grade: C. The theme of the Cowboys’ offseason has been losing more players than they’ve gained. Key pieces from last season are gone from both sides of the ball including Cooper and Collins on offense, and Gregory on defense.
The offensive line was bordering on questionable status last season with age and injuries catching up with long-time staple Tyron Smith and the sub-par performance of center Tyler Biadasz. Dallas drafted Smith at No.24 but that’s commonly regarded to be a stretch. While it’s possible Smith works out, the pick seemed like a reach.
Dallas traded away Cooper and most of the receiver experience with him. It will rely on CeeDee Lamb—in just his third pro season—to take over. Tolbert was taken in the third round but if he can’t contribute immediately, this team is in trouble. Michael Gallup won’t be available to start the season because of his Week 17 ACL injury last season.
Biggest question: Can Dak Prescott stay healthy? Prescott started last season making an early case for MVP until he suffered a calf injury while throwing the game-winning overtime touchdown to Lamb against the Patriots. Prescott was never the same. Prescott needs to return to his early 2021 form and that will largely depend on the health and performance of the offensive line in front of him, which is also a big question. — Timm Hamm
Fantasy fact: Ezekiel Elliott finished seventh in fantasy points among running backs last season, and he’s now finished no worse than ninth at the position in every NFL season in which he’s played at least 15 games. Still, his second-half struggles and the emergence of Tony Pollard have Elliott’s 2022 ADP in the third or fourth round. He could be a steal. — Fabiano
Cowboys Country: More on Dallas’ offseason
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Key additions: A.J. Brown, WR (trade); Haason Reddick, EDGE (FA); James Bradberry, CB (FA); Kyzir White, LB (FA), Zach Pascal, WR (FA); Jaquiski Tartt, S (FA); Jordan Davis, DL (draft); LB Nakobe Dean, LB (draft)
Key losses: Brandon Brooks, G (retired); Rodney McLeod, S (FA); Steven Nelson, CB (FA); Alex Singleton, LB (FA); Hassan Ridgeway, DT (FA); Genard Avery, LB (FA)
Offseason grade: A. Somewhat surprisingly, the Eagles went all-in on challenging for a Super Bowl this year, bulking up the defense and acquiring Brown, who is one of the top pass catchers in the game. They could have gone the draft route again for another receiver to pair with DeVonta Smith and waited for the development to happen but decided to deal for Brown and sign him to a $100 million extension.
Same thing on defense. The Eagles could have been content with putting a second-year CB such as Zech McPhearson or Tay Gowan opposite Pro Bowler Darius Slay and living with the growing pains. Instead, they signed veteran Bradberry to give the Eagles a pair of potential shutdown corners. The addition of Reddick and the return of veteran Brandon Graham from a torn Achilles that cost him his 2021 season should help a pass rush that finished next to last in the league with just 29. Davis is also expected to grow into a three-down player and will be a key piece in the middle of defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon’s odd-man fronts.
Biggest question: Will all the new pieces fit and can second-year head coach Nick Sirianni, who has been handed a team that looks like it could contend on paper, be able to manage expectations, which are off the charts in Philadelphia at the moment?
With the exception of right guard, where Brooks’ retirement will open a battle to start between Isaac Seumalo and Jack Driscoll, the starting spots are mostly solidified, so camp will be spent identifying depth behind the starters, especially at receiver, tight end and linebacker. — Ed Kracz
Fantasy fact: In the first six weeks of last season, the Eagles offense ranked 10th in pass percentage and 23rd in rush percentage. Over their final 11 games, however, they ranked dead last in pass percentage and were tops in the league in rush percentage. With the addition of Brown, fantasy fans have to hope the team uses a more balanced attack in 2022. — Fabiano
Eagles Today: More on Philadelphia’s offseason
WASHINGTON COMMANDERS
Key additions: Carson Wentz, QB (trade); Jahan Dotson, WR (draft); Andrew Norwell, OL (FA); Trai Turner, OL (FA)
Key losses: Ryan Fitzpatrick, QB (retired); DeAndre Carter, WR (FA); Brandon Scherff, OL (FA); Landon Collins, S (released)
Offseason Grade: B-. Washington didn’t do a whole lot with its offseason, opting for one large move rather than many small ones. With Wentz adding $28 million to the cap space, there wasn’t a whole lot of wiggle room to make any more moves. While there were other potential quarterback upgrades to make this offseason, Washington opted to make an affordable one in terms of assets, trading two third-round picks for their new quarterback. Wentz has one year to prove himself. If he doesn’t, the Commanders can tap into 2023’s loaded QB class.
Biggest question: Will the Commanders sign a veteran linebacker? Ron Rivera has alluded numerous times this offseason about wanting to add a veteran linebacker. The team drafted Jamin Davis in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft, but he has migrated to his more natural position on the outside. Cole Holcomb has gotten the lion’s share of the first-team reps, but it doesn’t appear as if he’s won the starting job. He’ll have to do so in training camp, otherwise the team may look outside the organization at a linebacker like Anthony Barr or Deion Jones. — Jeremy Brener
Fantasy fact: Antonio Gibson finished 10th in fantasy points among running backs last season, but he was terribly inconsistent. In fact, he scored fewer than 12 points seven times and was limited to single digits in six of those games. With J.D. McKissic in the mix and the selection of Brian Robinson in the draft, Gibson’s 2022 touch share could decline. — Fabiano
Washington Football: More on Washington’s offseason
NEW YORK GIANTS
Key additions: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge (draft); Evan Neal, OT (draft); Daniel Bellinger, TE (draft), OC Jon Feliciano (UFA), G Mark Glowinski, G (UFA)
Key losses: Austin Johnson, DT (UFA, Chargers), Logan Ryan, S (released), Evan Engram, TE (FA), Keion Crossen, DB/STs (UFA, Miami)
Offseason Grade: B-. New GM Joe Schoen was significantly hamstrung, thanks to the prior regime’s bold yet unsuccessful gamble to stretch the salary cap to acquire veteran help. Schoen did stockpile draft picks, filling them with prospects that address numerous holes on the roster. He also weeded out veterans such as Ryan who were no longer in the team’s long-term plans to straighten out the cap moving forward. It’s going to take time for everything to come together, but the early feelings are that Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll have a long-term vision similar to how the Bills, their former team, were built from the bottom up.
Biggest question: Can Daboll and Schoen save Daniel Jones? After co-owner John Mara admitted the previous regime did everything possible to screw up Jones, Schoen and Daboll have done everything possible to reinforce what’s around him to give him the best possible chance at success. That includes a system that Jones himself also contributed to developing, a better offensive line and the freedom to return to his rookie-season gunslinging ways. But can Jones take that long-awaited step forward and be the quarterback the organization has always envisioned him becoming? If he can, he’ll land a nice payday, and the Giants will be set moving forward. If he can’t, the Giants are potentially looking at starting again with a new franchise quarterback in 2023. — Patricia Traina
Fantasy fact: In his first two seasons in the NFL, Saquon Barkley averaged 4.8 yards per rush and produced a combined 3,169 scrimmage yards in 29 games. In his last two seasons, he has averaged a mere 3.5 yards per rush with a combined 950 scrimmage yards in just 15 games. Barkley is still going in the top three to four rounds in most fantasy drafts. — Fabiano
Giants Country: More on New York’s offseason
NFC NORTH
GREEN BAY PACKERS
Key additions: De’Vondre Campbell, LB (re-signed); Rasul Douglas, CB (re-signed); Sammy Watkins, WR (FA); Jarran Reed, DT (FA); Keisean Nixon, CB (FA); Pat O’Donnell, P (FA); Quay Walker, LB (draft); Devonte Wyatt, DT (draft); Christian Watson, WR (draft)
Key losses: Davante Adams, WR (traded); Za’Darius Smith, OLB (released); Billy Turner, RT (released); Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR (FA); Chandon Sullivan, CB (FA); Lucas Patrick, G/C (FA).
Offseason grade: C. Arguably the biggest transaction during the entire NFL offseason was the trade of All-Pro receiver Davante Adams to the Raiders for first- and second-round picks. With the first-round pick, the Packers selected Walker, a linebacker prospect with an incredible combination of size and speed. He potentially will give the Packers an elite tandem alongside Campbell. The Packers packaged their second-round pick to move up to select receiver Christian Watson, who also features an incredible combination of size and speed. He potentially will join Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb and Adams in the team’s pantheon of great second-round receivers. But whether Walker and Watson will maximize their athletic gifts is anyone’s guess. Their development will determine whether the Packers won or lost the blockbuster trade. Re-signing Campbell and Douglas were huge moves in keeping together what could be a powerhouse defense.
Biggest question: Who replaces Adams? Until this season, Aaron Rodgers had never gone into a season without a proven star receiver. It’s not as if the Packers are going to stop throwing the football, so who’s capable of getting open and catching it? Allen Lazard, a quality role player the past couple seasons, will move into the No. 1 spot. In free agency, the team signed Watkins, the fourth pick of the 2014 draft. Over the past six seasons, he’s topped 40 receptions only once. Watson, Romeo Doubs (fourth round) and Samori Toure (seventh round) were added in the draft. The veteran Cobb and 2020 third-rounder Amari Rodgers will compete in the slot. The season might hinge on whether anyone from that group can get open on third-and-10 in a key moment in the playoffs.— Bill Huber
Fantasy fact: Adams had 669 catches and 73 touchdowns in his 116 career games with the Green Bay Packers. He was traded to the Raiders this offseason. Without him, the Packers’ top three wideouts are Allen Lazard, Watson and Cobb. The trio has produced a combined 700 catches and 66 touchdowns in the NFL. — Fabiano
Packer Central: More on Green Bay’s offseason
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Key additions: Za'Darius Smith, OLB (FA); Jordan Hicks, LB (FA); Harrison Phillips, DT (FA); Lewis Cine, S (draft), Andrew Booth, CB (draft); Patrick Peterson, CB (re-signed); Chandon Sullivan, CB (FA); Chris Reed, G (FA); Johnny Mundt, TE (FA)
Key losses: Michael Pierce, DT (released); Tyler Conklin, TE (FA); Anthony Barr, LB (FA); Xavier Woods, S (FA); Mason Cole, G/C (FA); Everson Griffen, DE (unsigned); Sheldon Richardson, DT (FA)
Offseason grade: B-. The big story of the Vikings' offseason was a full regime change. After two consecutive losing seasons, longtime GM Rick Spielman and head coach Mike Zimmer were replaced by younger leaders in Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Kevin O'Connell. These moves were all about changing the Vikings' culture with an influx of collaboration, analytics and a more modern approach. Interestingly, that didn't lead to a very different offseason from a roster-building perspective. The Vikings declined to hit the reset button, instead choosing to gear up for what they believe will be a season of playoff contention. They extended Kirk Cousins again, made a free agency splash by signing Smith, and added or retained several other veterans at positions of need. Clearly, they believe this roster is ready to win at a high level right now. O'Connell brought Wes Phillips with him from the Rams to be his offensive coordinator and hired respected veteran coach Ed Donatell to be his DC. Cine and Booth Jr. should help revamp the secondary as rookies.
Biggest question: How many of the top three draft picks will be starters in Week 1? Cine, the first-round safety out of Georgia, has an incredible skill set and seems likely to beat out Camryn Bynum for a starting job in training camp. Booth faces an uphill battle to take Cameron Dantzler's job at outside cornerback, but it's possible. The same goes for fellow second-rounder Ed Ingram, who will be in a three-person battle for the Vikings' vacant right guard job with veteran free agent pickups Chris Reed and Jesse Davis. — Will Ragatz
Fantasy fact: Jefferson has recorded 604.6 fantasy points in his first two seasons in the NFL. That is the second-most points scored by a wide receiver in his first two years behind only Odell Beckham Jr.’s 614.3 points. However, Jefferson’s 196 catches and 3,016 yards are the most posted by a wideout in Years 1-2. He’s a first-rounder in fantasy drafts. — Fabiano
Inside The Vikings: More on Minnesota’s offseason
CHICAGO BEARS
Key additions: Justin Jones, DT (FA); Lucas Patrick, C/G (FA); Byron Pringle, LB (FA); Nicholas Morrow, LB (FA); Al-Quadin Muhammad, DE (FA); Jaquan Brisker, S (draft); Kyler Gordon, CB (draft); Velus Jones Jr., WR (draft)
Key losses: Khalil Mack, OLB (trade); Allen Robinson II, WR (FA); Akiem Hicks, DE (FA); James Daniels, G (FA); Jason Peters, T (FA); Eddie Goldman, NT (released); Bilal Nichols, DE (FA); Danny Trevathan, ILB (released), Alec Ogletree, ILB (released); Tashaun Gipson, S (FA); Nick Foles, QB (released); Andy Dalton, QB (FA)
Offseason grade: C. GM Ryan Poles was unable to sign any marquee free agents to help QB Justin Fields. Poles had little cap space and no first-round draft pick. So, he simply cleared cap space and got rid of players who didn't fit new offensive and defensive systems under coach Matt Eberflus. The goal was to have cap space next year and the Bears ($100 million) have the most of any team, so from this end the plan worked. For this season, their other goal was adding cheaper free agent starters on short-term contracts such as Justin Jones, Patrick, Morrow and Pringle, provided he is able to avoid further trouble with the law after an arrest on driving charges. Expect young players such as Brisker and Gordon to emerge quickly while both WR Darnell Mooney and TE Cole Kmet make more strides in Year 3.
Biggest question: What will their starting offensive line look like on opening day? The new offense is based on David Montgomery's running and play-action passes but the blocking is a huge question. They could have new starters at three or four positions, including rookie Braxton Jones at left tackle. Larry Borom appears set for either left or right tackle. The biggest uncertainty is who is at right guard: former center Sam Mustipher, tackle Teven Jenkins or one of three rookies. It's also possible they'll trade for a guard or pick up one who is cut. — Gene Chamberlain
Fantasy fact: The Bears have had just three quarterbacks (Mitchell Trubisky, Jay Cutler, Erik Kramer) score more than 200 fantasy points in a single season in the Super Bowl era. That’s just three quarterbacks in 56 years! Couple that trend with the lack of elite-level talent the team has in the current pass attack, and Fields could be in for a difficult season. — Fabiano
Bear Digest: More on Chicago’s offseason
DETROIT LIONS
Key additions: Aidan Hutchinson, DE (draft); Jameson Williams, WR (draft); DJ Chark, WR (FA); DeShon Elliott, S (FA); Mike Hughes, CB (FA), Chris Board, LB (FA)
Key losses: Trey Flowers, DE (released); Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB (FA); KhaDarel Hodge, WR (FA); Dean Marlowe, S (FA); Nick Williams, DT (FA)
Offseason Grade: C+. In free agency, the Lions decided to bring back a significant number of their own free agents, leaving many to wonder why a team that only won three games would still want a plethora of the same players back. The team did address one of its biggest weaknesses from last year at wide receiver, drafting Williams in the first round and signing Chark. The defense still has question marks at linebacker, but drafting Hutchinson should start the process of improving the defensive line.
Biggest question: Can the offensive line stay healthy? Last season, the projected starting five did not see the field together all that much because of injuries. Taylor Decker and Frank Ragnow must stay healthy and Penei Sewell is expected to take a significant leap forward in his second year. The unit must open holes for D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams, especially in the red zone. — John Maakaron
Fantasy fact: The Lions added two field stretchers in Chark and Williams this offseason. For them to succeed, however, Jared Goff needs to improve his downfield passing stats. Last season, he ranked 25th in attempts of 20-plus air yards (3.3 PG) and tied for 22nd in big plays (20-plus yards) among quarterbacks with at least 12 starts. — Fabiano
All Lions: More on Detroit’s offseason
NFC SOUTH
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Key Additions: Shaq Mason, OG (trade); Luke Goedeke, OG (draft); Russell Gage, WR (FA), Cade Otton, TE (draft); Rachaad White, RB (draft); Logan Hall, DE (draft); Akiem Hicks, DE (FA), Keanu Neal, S (FA); Logan Ryan, S (FA)
Key Losses: Ali Marpet, OG (retired); Alex Cappa, OG (FA), Rob Gronkowski, TE (retired); Ndamukong Suh, DE (FA); Jason Pierre-Paul, OLB (FA); Jordan Whitehead, S (FA)
Offseason Grade: B+. Losing Marpet and Cappa up front is going to hurt, and Gronkowski was a bigger part of the blocking scheme than many realize. However, the acquisition of Mason came at pennies on the dollar while Aaron Stinnie is a Super Bowl-winning lineman himself, making the new guys not as big a dropoff as one might see at first glance. Getting Gage to sign after seeing him twice per year with the Falcons will give the Buccaneers offense a new weapon for quarterback Tom Brady. On defense, Joe Tryon-Shoyinka's rise to starter without JPP on the roster should be an improvement and could help cover some of the penetration issues the defense had in 2021. There are some new faces this time around, and a tough schedule won't do the Bucs any favors. But come mid-January, this team is going to be well equipped to compete for its third Lombardi.
Biggest question: Who will be the second back on the field behind Fournette, and how versatile will that person make the Gronkowski-less Bucs offense? The favorite will be rookie Rachaad White while Ke'Shawn Vaughn has more years of NFL experience, and veteran Giovanni Bernard will be in the mix, too.
Fantasy fact: Fournette saw a near 30% touch share and averaged a career-high 18.3 fantasy points in his 14 games last season. He figures to get a big workload again in 2021, as the Buccaneers let Jones walk as a free agent. Even with Giovani Bernard and rookie Rachaad White in the mix, Lombardi Lenny will be a top-30 overall pick. — Fabiano
BucsGameday: More on Tampa Bay’s offseason
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Key additions: Dennis Allen, Head Coach (Promotion), Jarvis Landry, WR (UFA); Tyrann Mathieu, S (UFA); Trevor Penning, T (draft); Chris Olave, WR (draft); Alontae Taylor, S (draft); D'Marco Jackson, LB (draft); Devine Ozigbo, RB (UFA); Taco Charlton, DE (UFA); Lucas Krull, TE (UDFA); Smoke Monday, S (UDFA)
Key losses: Sean Payton, Head Coach (retired); Marcus Williams, S (UFA); Terron Armstead, T (UFA); Malcolm Jenkins, S (retired); Will Clapp, OL (UFA); Lil'Jordan Humphrey, WR (UFA); Kenny Stills, WR (UFA); Ty Montgomery, RB (UFA); Trevor Siemian, QB (UFA); Kwon Alexander, LB (UFA)
Offseason grade: A-. New Orleans' front office had a salary cap deficit of approximately $77M going into the offseason. GM Mickey Loomis and VP of Football Operations Khai Harley were able to restructure and revise contracts, whittle down the cap numbers to a manageable -$20M and begin to sign players. The Saints flirted with quarterback Deshaun Watson before signing starting QB Jameis Winston to a two-year, $14 million deal. Perhaps the best two offseason acquisitions were to add Landry and Mathieu. Both have roots in the New Orleans area. Loomis made shrewd moves by retaining most of the coaching staff and promoting Allen as head coach and Pete Carmichael as primary play caller.
Biggest question: Two critical questions persist with the Saints: How will the Saints respond to Allen without the veteran coaching leadership of Sean Payton? And how will Jameis Winston rebound from his ACL injury?
Fantasy fact: Alvin Kamara is coming off a 2021 season that saw him produce career lows in yards per carry average (3.9), targets (67), catches (47), receiving yards (439) and fantasy points (234.7). However, he did average 20.2 fantasy points in five full games played with Jameis Winston. That includes four games with 18-plus and one with 30-plus. — Fabiano
Saints News Network: More on New Orleans’ offseason
ATLANTA FALCONS
Key additions: Marcus Mariota, QB (FA); Desmond Ridder, QB (draft); Damien Williams, RB (FA); Drake London, WR (draft); Bryan Edwards, WR (trade), Anthony Firkser, TE (FA); Germain Ifedi, OT (FA); Lorenzo Carter, OLB (FA); Arnold Ebiketie, OLB (draft); Rashaan Evans, ILB (FA); Casey Hayward, CB (FA); Dean Marlowe, S (FA)
Key losses: Matt Ryan, QB (trade); Mike Davis, RB (released); Calvin Ridley, WR (suspension); Russell Gage, WR (FA); Foye Oluokun, LB (FA); Dante Fowler, OLB (cut); Duron Harmon, S (FA)
Offseason Grade: B-. The Falcons swung and missed on Deshaun Watson, leading to a chain reaction of moves that eventually forced Atlanta to fully begin its rebuild a year early. Their Watson pursuit led to trading Ryan after 14 seasons under center. The team also transformed its front seven after releasing Fowler and letting Oluokun, last year’s tackle leader, walk in free agency. As a team, the Falcons got worse, but sometimes you need to take a step back to move forward.
Biggest question: Does the team count on Mariota, who hasn’t started a game in two years, or will the team hand the ball to third-round rookie Ridder? While Mariota is considered the favorite, Ridder has impressed early and he has turned the Falcons offseason into a quarterback battle for the first time in more than 20 years. — Jeremy Brener
Fantasy fact: Cordarrelle Patterson, a wide receiver converted to running back, scored 234.6 fantasy points last season. Believe it or not, that’s the fifth-most points recorded in a single season by a Falcons running back since 2000. Jamal Anderson leads the team in fantasy points at the position when he scored 337.5 points during the 1998 season. — Fabiano
Falcon Report: More on Atlanta’s offseason
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Key additions: RB D’Onta Foreman, RB (FA); Rashard Higgins, WR (FA); Ikem Ekwonu, OT (draft); Bradley Bozeman, C (FA); Austin Corbett, G (FA); Matt Ioannidis, DT (FA); Damien Wilson, LB (FA); Corey Littleton, LB (FA); Xavier Woods, S (FA); Matt Corral, QB (draft)
Key losses: DaQuan Jones, DT (FA); Haason Reddick, LB (FA); Jermaine Carter Jr., LB (FA); Stephon Gilmore, CB (FA).
Offseason grade: B+. The Panthers aren’t necessarily ready to compete for a playoff spot but they did improve the roster significantly this offseason. Losing both Reddick and Gilmore in free agency hurts, but they were able to completely revamp the offensive line by drafting Ikem Ekwonu sixth and by signing Bozeman and Corbett in free agency. Carolina has the depth at corner to withstand the loss of Gilmore with Jaycee Horn, Donte Jackson, CJ Henderson, Keith Taylor Jr. and others. However, they failed to find a replacement for Reddick, which could mean Brian Burns’ path to the quarterback won’t be as easy this fall.
Biggest question: Who will be the starting quarterback in Week 1? Carolina was very close to making a draft-night trade for Baker Mayfield but instead traded back into the third round to select Corral out of Ole Miss. Coming from an RPO-centric offense, Corral has a lot to learn and isn’t ready to push Sam Darnold for the starting job. GM Scott Fitterer has made it clear he wants competition in the quarterback room which is why the Panthers are still being linked to Mayfield and even Jimmy Garoppolo. — Schuyler Callihan
Fantasy fact: Christian McCaffrey ranks third in fantasy points per game average (21.8) at his position in the last two years. Unfortunately, he’s also played just 10 games during that time due to injuries. CMC’s high level of statistical success will keep him in the first round, even in the top five overall, but there might not be a bigger risk-reward pick. — Fabiano
All Panthers: More on Carolina’s offseason
AFC WEST
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Key additions: Justin Reid, S (FA); JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR (FA); Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR (FA); Ronald Jones, RB (FA); Trent McDuffie, CB (draft); George Karlaftis, EDGE (draft); Skyy Moore, WR (draft); Bryan Cook, S (draft)
Key losses: Tyreek Hill, WR (trade); Tyrann Mathieu, S (FA); Charvarius Ward, CB (FA); Anthony Hitchens, LB (released); Melvin Ingram, EDGE (FA); Mike Hughes, CB (FA); Jarran Reed, DT (FA); Demarcus Robinson, WR (FA); Byron Pringle, WR (FA)
Offseason grade: B. By moving on from Hill and Mathieu, the Chiefs disrupted their short-term stability. In return, they gained the assets needed to completely rebuild a younger, cheaper defense that should pay dividends down the line. Offensively, short-term free agents such as Smith-Schuster and Valdes-Scantling were signed to keep the Chiefs’ offense humming as the team steps into a new era without Hill as the Chiefs' top wide receiver.
Biggest question: How much and how quickly can the Chiefs’ young defense grow? The Chiefs have some obvious questions with their pass catchers, but most of those can be answered by simply having Patrick Mahomes at quarterback. Defensively, rookies such as first-round picks Trent McDuffie and George Karlaftis will be expected to start immediately at important positions where the Chiefs don't have much depth. At the second level, the Chiefs moved on from Hitchens and will now rely on linebackers Nick Bolton and Willie Gay Jr. in the middle of the defense, despite that duo entering their second and third seasons, respectively. With Ward leaving in free agency, the Chiefs lost their most consistent corner. At EDGE, they're relying on a last-chance year for Frank Clark and a rotation of role players across from Karlaftis. The Chiefs have built a young, cheap defensive foundation for years to come, but can they hold their own through the first half of the season or will growing pains lose games? — Joshua Brisco
Fantasy fact: Travis Kelce needs just 46.34 fantasy points to become only the seventh tight end in the Super Bowl era to score over 2,000 points in his career. He’ll reach that total faster than any other player at the position. Kelce is still far behind the career leader in fantasy points among tight ends, as Tony Gonzalez holds the record with over 3,510 points. — Fabiano
Arrowhead Report: More on Kansas City’s offseason
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
Key additions: Davante Adams, WR (FA); Chandler Jones, DE (FA); Anthony Averett, CB (FA); Brandon Bolden, WR (FA); Mack Hollins, WR (FA); Zamir White, RB (draft); Neil Farrell Jr., DL (draft); Matthew Butler, DL (draft)
Key losses: Yannick Ngakoue, DE (trade); Nick Kwiatkoski, LB (released); Cory Littleton, LB (released); Carl Nassib, DL (released)
Offseason grade: A. The Raiders added the best offensive and defensive free agents to a 10-win team that was the fifth seed in the AFC playoffs. The Raiders upgraded their coaching staff with Josh McDaniels and the addition of GM Dave Ziegler has the Raiders working in the same direction. With the key additions of several free agents, the Raiders are poised to make a legitimate run at the AFC West title.
Biggest question: The Raiders would like to add an additional offensive lineman, defensive back and perhaps even a linebacker. Any addition would have to make sense in terms of the long-term financially, as well as to the chemistry in the locker room.
Fantasy fact: The Raiders made a huge move to acquire Adams, who scored more than 320 fantasy points in each of his last three full seasons in Green Bay. In the last 20 years, no Raiders wideouts have scored more than 259.1 fantasy points in a single season. That was Hunter Renfrow, who hit that mark just last season. Bad news for Adams? — Fabiano
Raider Maven: More on Las Vegas’ offseason
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Key additions: Khalil Mack, OLB (trade); J.C. Jackson, CB (FA); Kyle Van Noy, LB (FA); Bryce Callahan, CB (FA); Sebastian Joseph-Day, DL (FA); Austin Johnson, DL (FA); Gerald Everett, TE (FA); Zion Johnson, OG (draft)
Key losses: Kyzir White, LB (FA); Uchenna Nwosu, OLB (FA); Justin Jones, DL (FA); Jared Cook, TE (FA); Kyler Fackrell, OLB (FA); Stephen Anderson, TE (FA); Bryan Bulaga, OT (released)
Offseason grade: A. The Chargers acquired Khalil Mack in early March, and they kept their foot on the throttle throughout free agency, landing the top defender on the market in Jackson. The Chargers added a multitude of defenders that enter the Chargers’ building with previous experience of playing in coach Brandon Staley’s scheme, which should offer a rather smooth transition. They also filled a hole at right guard by selecting Zion Johnson, arguably the best interior offensive lineman in the draft, with their first-round pick. It’s been about as good of an offseason on paper as the Chargers could have envisioned when things got rolling four months ago.
Biggest question: Who plays right tackle? The Chargers are going to let Trey Pipkins, who is entering his fourth year with the team, and Storm Norton, who was largely hit-and-miss across 15 starts last season, battle in training camp for the job. Pipkins has had moments of looking like a starting-caliber tackle. But during his first three seasons, he’s primarily been a developmental project rather than a legitimate starter. The Chargers are hoping he can take another step forward and keep the right side clean for Justin Herbert. — Nick Cothrel
Fantasy fact: Herbert has scored 713.6 fantasy points in his first two seasons in the NFL. That is the most points scored by a quarterback in his first two years in league history. His 69 touchdown passes is also a record previously held by Dan Marino (68). Herbert also has more passing yards (9.350) than any other quarterback in Years 1-2. — Fabiano
Charger Report: More on Los Angeles’ offseason
DENVER BRONCOS
Key additions: Russell Wilson, QB (trade), Nathaniel Hackett, HC, D.J. Jones, DT (FA), Randy Gregory, DE (FA), K’Waun Williams, CB (FA), Josh Johnson, QB (FA), Ben Braden, OL (FA), Tom Compton, OL (FA), Billy Turner, OL (FA), J.R. Reid, S (FA), Alex Singleton, LB (FA), Nik Bonitto, OLB (draft), Greg Dulcich, TE (draft)
Key losses: Vic Fangio, HC (fired), Shelby Harris, DL (trade), Noah Fant, TE (trade), Drew Lock, QB (trade), Teddy Bridgewater, QB (FA), Alexander Johnson, LB (FA), Bobby Massie, OL (FA), Cam Fleming, OL (FA), Bryce Callahan, CB (FA), Kyle Fuller, CB (FA), Kenny Young, LB (FA), Shamar Stephen, DL (FA)
Offseason grade: A+. What more could the Broncos have done to jumpstart this roster? Acquiring a nine-time Pro Bowl QB still playing in his prime years has set the Broncos up for a renaissance. Add to that the acquisition of a run-stuffing nose tackle (Jones) and a bonafide edge rusher (Gregory) to pair with Bradley Chubb, and the Broncos’ defense also took a massive step forward—even if Bonitto doesn’t pan out early.
Biggest question: Can an inexperienced coaching staff complement Wilson and the new-look offense/defense? If Nathaniel Hackett was the right choice to succeed Fangio, the new coaches will be a boon for Wilson. Conversely, if there are too many coaching growing pains, the Broncos might still be a year out from truly moving the needle and unseating the Chiefs in the AFC West. — Chad Jensen
Fantasy fact: In his 10 seasons in Seattle, Wilson helped fuel a total of nine 200-plus point campaigns from his wide receivers. That includes DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, who both had over 265 points in 2020. That’s good news for Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton and the Broncos wideouts, who have had just two wideouts with 200 points since 2016. — Fabiano
Mile High Huddle: More on Denver’s offseason
AFC EAST
BUFFALO BILLS
Key additions: Von Miller, DE (FA); Shaq Lawson, DE (FA); Jordan Phillips, DT (FA); DaQuan Jones, DT (FA); Tim Settle, DT (FA); Ike Boettger, G (re-signed); Greg Mancz, G (FA); Kaiir Elam, CB (draft); Christian Benford, CB (draft); Rodger Saffold, G (FA); Ryan Bates, G (re-signed); Terrel Bernard, LB (draft); Baylon Spector, LB (draft); Matt Araiza, P (draft); Case Keenum, QB (trade); James Cook, RB (draft); Duke Johnson, RB (FA); Taiwan Jones, RB (re-signed); David Quessenberry, T (FA); O.J. Howard, TE (FA); Tavon Austin, WR (FA); Jamison Crowder, WR (FA); Khalil Shakir, WR (draft)
Key losses: Levi Wallace, CB (FA); Star Lotulelei, DT (released); Mario Addison, DE (FA), Jerry Hughes, DE (FA); Emmanuel Sanders, WR (FA); Cole Beasley, WR (released); Daryl Williams, OL (released); Jon Feliciano, G (released); Mitchell Trubisky, QB (FA); Efe Obada, DE (FA); Vernon Butler, DT (FA); Harrison Phillips, DT (FA); A.J. Klein, LB (released)
Offseason grade: B+. For a team that’s advanced in the playoffs in each of the past two seasons, the Bills have had quite a significant amount of roster turnover this year, but almost all of it has been for the better. They added the top pass rusher on the free-agent market in Miller, bolstered both lines with other key free-agent additions such as Saffold, Phillips, Settle and Lawson, replaced backup QB Mitchell Trubisky with someone even more accomplished in Keenum and drafted Elam in the first round. They also drafted Cook, who should help in the passing game and added Crowder and Austin. GM Brandon Beane did this all by staying under the salary cap, too.
Biggest question: What’s happening at cornerback? Tre’Davious White had surgery to fix a ruptured ACL in December, and remains out indefinitely. Their other starter on the outside, Wallace, was allowed to depart in free agency. The Bills responded by drafting two corners in Elam and Benford but not adding any veterans. As long as White is out of the picture, they will need Dane Jackson and probably Elam to step into a defense that was ranked No. 1 in scoring and yards last season and prove they belong. — Nick Fierro
Fantasy fact: Allen has finished as the No. 1 quarterback in fantasy points in each of the past two seasons. Can he do it for a third consecutive year? Well, only two other quarterbacks have accomplished the feat in the Super Bowl era. Steve Young finished first in 1992, 1993 and 1994, and Brett Favre finished first in 1995, 1996 and 1997. Can Allen join the list? — Fabiano
Bills Central: More on Buffalo’s offseason
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Key additions: Cole Strange, OL (draft); Tyquan Thornton, WR (draft); James White, RB (re-signed); Mack Wilson, LB (trade); Malcolm Butler, CB (FA); Jakobi Meyers, WR (re-signed); Devin McCourty, S (re-signed); Ty Montgomery, WR (FA); Nick Folk, K (re-signed); Trent Brown, OL (re-signed); DeVante Parker, WR (trade); Jabrill Peppers, S (FA); Lil’Jordan Humphrey, WR (FA).
Key losses: Kyle Van Noy, LB (FA); Shaq Mason, OL (trade); Chase Winovich, DE (trade); J.C. Jackson, CB (FA); Gunner Olszewski, ST (FA); Ted Karras, OL (FA); Don’t’a Hightower, LB (FA)
Offseason grade: C-. Coming off a disappointing season in which a 9-4 start deteriorated into an embarrassing 30-point playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, the Patriots responded by making no drastic moves in the offseason. Defensively, New England lost a Pro Bowl playmaker in Jackson and moved to replace him with Butler and Texans’ free agent Mitchell. While most thought Bill Belichick would look to improve a sagging linebacker corps, he merely acquired Browns’ castoff Mack Wilson and, surprisingly, didn’t address the position in 10 draft choices. On offense, the Patriots filled the void left by Mason and Karras by reaching in the first round for Strange and then curiously using picks on two of their deepest positions: quarterback and running back. The departure of long-time offensive play caller Josh McDaniels to the Las Vegas Raiders left the immediate future of second-year quarterback Mac Jones in the unproven hands of Joe Judge and Matt Patricia.
Biggest question: Who is the Patriots’ No. 1 receiver? They traded for Parker, but in an AFC East that boasts Tyreek Hill (Dolphins), Stefon Diggs (Bills) and Garrett Wilson (Jets), can veterans Meyers, Kendrick Bourne, N’Keal Harry and Nelson Agholor, or rookie speedster Thornton step up? — Richie Whitt
Fantasy fact: Damien Harris had 15 touchdowns and finished with 210.1 fantasy points last season. The only Patriots back to score more touchdowns in a single season in the last 20 years is LeGarrette Blount (18 touchdowns in 2016). Only James White (2018), Corey Dillon (2004) and Blount have scored more points than Harris for New England in that time. — Fabiano
Patriots Country: More on New England’s offseason
MIAMI DOLPHINS
Key additions: WR Tyreek Hill (trade); T Terron Armstead (FA); WR Cedrick Wilson Jr. (FA); C/G Connor Williams (FA); RB Chase Edmonds (FA); RB Raheem Mostert (FA); RB Sony Michel (FA); QB Teddy Bridgewater (FA); DE Emmanuel Ogbah (FA/re-signed); TE Mike Gesicki (FA/re-signed)
Key losses: WR DeVante Parker (trade); RB Duke Johnson (FA); QB Jacoby Brissett (FA); G/T Jesse Davis (released)
Offseason grade: A. Considering the Dolphins were able to upgrade practically everywhere on offense and keep intact a pretty good defense, it’s difficult to pick at anything they did in the offseason. The acquisitions of Hill and Armstead were the headline grabbers, for sure, but Bridgewater is a significant upgrade over Brissett as the backup quarterback. The trio of Mostert, Edmonds and Michel is more dynamic than what the Dolphins had last year, and Wilson complements the addition of Hill. On defense, the Dolphins were able to retain a long list of pending free agents headed by Ogbah but also featuring Elandon Roberts, Duke Riley and Brennan Scarlett, among others. It’s hard to find fault with the overall body of work for a team that was one game out of the playoffs each of the past two seasons.
Biggest question: Can Tua Tagovailoa become a franchise quarterback? The fifth pick in the 2020 NFL Draft enters a crossroads season, but has been given all the support he needs to take a major step forward in 2022. It won’t be until the regular season that the Dolphins will get the answer to their most important question, but training camp certainly could help set the stage for Tagovailoa to have a successful third NFL season. — Alain Poupart
Fantasy fact: The Dolphins acquired Hill this offseason in a blockbuster deal. In his last three full seasons in Kansas City, he scored at least 296.5 fantasy points and was over 300 points twice. Since 2002, the Dolphins have had just one wideout (Jarvis Landry, 2015) score more than 265 fantasy points in a single season. That’s a pretty bad trend for Hill. — Fabiano
All Dolphins: More on Miami’s offseason
NEW YORK JETS
Key additions: Ahmad 'Sauce' Gardner, CB (draft); Garrett Wilson, WR (draft); C.J. Uzomah, TE (FA); D.J. Reed, CB (FA); Breece Hall, RB (draft); Tyler Conklin, TE (FA); Laken Tomlinson, OG (FA); Jordan Whitehead, S (FA); Jermaine Johnson, EDGE (draft); Braxton Berrios, WR (FA)
Key losses: Marcus Maye, S (FA); Jamison Crowder, WR (FA); Morgan Moses, OT (FA); Folorunso Fatukasi, DT (FA)
Offseason grade: A-. The Jets made significant improvements on both sides of the ball this offseason, bolstering position groups that needed to be addressed. Their secondary is much stronger, New York's deep pass rush is even deeper and on offense, second-year quarterback Zach Wilson is surrounded by plenty of weapons. He'll have a real opportunity to show what he's capable of and build on his rookie year, utilizing the playmakers around him. New York might not be ready to end their postseason drought—the longest in the NFL—but they certainly will enter next season with a better team, a club that added a mix of young talent and experienced veterans over the last few months.
Biggest question: With so many new faces playing an important role, will this group put it together between the lines? Even with that spectacular grade, this roster is littered with question marks leading up to the regular season. Specifically, will Mekhi Becton stay healthy and produce at offensive tackle? What will Carl Lawson's first season with New York look like after last year's Achilles injury? And most importantly, can Zach Wilson take a step forward as a sophomore? If he can't, New York is in trouble. — Max Goodman
Fantasy fact: Over the last 20 seasons, NFL tight ends have scored 200-plus fantasy points 65 times. None of those tight ends played for the Jets. In fact, New York has never had a player at the position score more than 174.5 points in a single season. That was Dustin Keller (2011). He and Johnny Mitchell (1994) are the lone Jets tight ends with 150-plus points. — Fabiano
Jets Country: More on New York’s offseason
AFC NORTH
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Key additions: Kyle Hamilton, S (draft); Morgan Moses, OT (FA); Marcus Williams, S (FA); Michael Pierce, DT (FA); Tyler Linderbaum, C (draft)
Key losses: Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, WR (trade); Tavon Young, CB (released); Sammy Watkins, WR (FA); DeShon Elliott, S (FA); Anthony Averett, CB (FA); Bradley Bozeman, C (FA)
Offseason grade: B. The Ravens signed Williams, Moses and Pierce. They re-signed Campbell, who has been stellar over the past two seasons. The Ravens will move forward with a young group of wide receivers headlined by second-year player Rashod Bateman, who emerged as their most dependable wideout by the end of the season. The Ravens added 11 draft picks, including a pair of first-rounders in Hamilton and Linderbaum. Both of those players are expected to start as rookies and make an immediate impact. The Ravens also picked up David Ojabo, who was a first-round pick before he blew out his Achilles during his pro day. Baltimore was able to grab Ojabo in the second round and he is expected to be back on the field at some point during the season.
Biggest question: Is the pass rush better? The Ravens finished in the bottom third of the league with 34 sacks last year. Tyus Bowser, who led the team with seven sacks, is dealing with an Achilles injury and it's still uncertain when he will be ready to play. Outside linebacker Odafe Oweh was second on the Ravens with five sacks and is poised for an even bigger season. Oweh underwent offseason shoulder surgery but should be ready for training camp. The Ravens thought they had a deal with edge rusher Za'Darius Smith to further boost the pass rush, but he decided to sign with the Vikings.
Fantasy fact: Among the Ravens’ 20 best PPR fantasy seasons in franchise history among wide receivers, Hollywood Brown (2021) is the lone one who has made that list in the last five years. Furthermore, no other wideout has produced a top-10 season for the team since 2015. Bateman remains a breakout player, but history shows he has a ceiling. — Fabiano
Raven Country: More on Baltimore’s offseason
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Key additions: Alex Cappa, RG (FA); Ted Karras, C (FA); La’el Collins, RT (FA); Hayden Hurst, TE (FA)
Key losses: CJ Uzomah, TE (FA); Larry Ogunjobi, DT (FA)
Offseason grade: A-. The Bengals desperately needed to address their offensive line and that’s exactly what they did in free agency. Adding Cappa, Karras and Collins should do wonders for Joe Burrow, who was sacked 70 times in 20 games last season (including playoffs).
Cincinnati kept most of its starters and has one of the deeper rosters in the NFL. The Bengals added young, talented players such as safety Dax Hill and cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt in the draft. The Bengals only have three players on their roster over the age of 30 and two of them are the punter (Kevin Huber, 36) and long-snapper (Clark Harris, 37).
They still have some question marks on the offensive and defensive lines, but the Bengals are better, at least on paper, than they were a year ago.
Biggest question: The Bengals’ offensive line should be better, but who’s going to start at left guard? Jackson Carman is the favorite, but rookie Cordell Volson and second-year lineman D’Ante Smith will also battle for the starting job. Cincinnati was one play away from winning the Super Bowl last season, but the offensive line was a thorn in their side throughout their playoff run. If they’re going to get back to the Super Bowl, they need one of their young linemen to emerge this season. — James Rapien
Fantasy fact: Ja’Marr Chase is coming off the second-best rookie season from a wide receiver based on PPR points (304.6), falling just shy of Randy Moss’s record-setting 304.7 points back in 1998. Three of the top five fantasy seasons ever posted from rookie wideouts have come out of LSU: Chase (2021), Odell Beckham Jr. (2014) and Justin Jefferson (2020). — Fabiano
All Bengals: More on Cincinnati’s offseason
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Key additions: Mitch Trubisky, QB (FA); Kenny Pickett, QB (draft); Levi Wallace, CB (FA); George Pickens, WR (draft); James Daniels, OG (FA); Mason Cole, C (FA); Myles Jack, ILB (FA); Larry Oladokun, DT (FA)
Key losses: Ben Roethlisberger, QB (retired); JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR (FA); Stephon Tuitt, DE (retired; Joe Haden, CB (FA)
Offseason grade: B+. There's a major question mark at quarterback, and the Steelers only made small splashes when it came to fixing their offensive line. But, overall, this team certainly improved. They'll head into the season with a loaded wide receiver room, a much improved defensive line and inside linebacker core and options at cornerback. If Trubisky or Pickett click, the ceiling is much higher than anticipated for Pittsburgh.
Biggest question: The Steelers need to address their running back depth. Najee Harris can't continue to touch the ball 400 times per season and be expected to stay healthy for the playoffs. Right now, the solution is to limit his touches, but the best answer is to find a reliable backup.
Fantasy fact: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin has always liked to use a featured running back, and that trend continued last season with Harris. He led the position with 381 touches and also played 972 offensive snaps. That led the league among backs and was 173 more snaps played than the next best runner (Ezekiel Elliott). Harris is a top-five pick. — Fabiano
All Steelers: More on Pittsburgh’s offseason
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Key additions: Deshaun Watson, QB (trade); Amari Cooper, WR (trade); Jadeveon Clowney, DE (FA); Taven Bryan, DT (FA)
Key losses: Austin Hooper, TE (released); Jarvis Landry, WR (released); J.C. Tretter, C (released)
Offseason grade: B. The Browns don’t know if they’ll have Deshaun Watson, who awaits a possible suspension. Watson faces two dozen civil lawsuits, each detailing graphic accounts of sexual harassment and sexual assault that occurred during massage therapy sessions. Cooper offers the height, weight and speed the Browns like and is a more consistent receiver than the team has had in the past several years. Retaining Clowney and keeping him across from Myles Garrett was critical to their defense.
Losing Hooper and Landry might hurt the Browns more in the locker room than in terms of on-field play. Hooper was never productive or efficient with the Browns as a receiver and Landry has been ineffective the past two seasons in no small part due to injury. On the field, Tretter is the biggest loss, but due to his own injuries, he was almost never able to practice. As a result, Nick Harris, who is entering his third season, took almost all the starter reps in practice for 2021 and had an impressive performance against the Packers and standout nose Kenny Clark. That's why the Browns are confident he can step in and start.
It's reasonable to question if enough was done at wide receiver or defensive tackle.
Biggest question: How much can the Browns get out of Jacoby Brissett? It may not require divine intervention, but the odds are similar that anyone but Brissett will be the plan at quarterback in the event of a Watson suspension. Brissett has shown the ability to be a functional quarterback. In a loaded AFC Conference, he will be punching above his weight on an almost weekly basis and the Browns will have to be good enough to level the playing field if they intend on competing for the postseason. — Pete Smith
Fantasy fact: The Browns traded for Cooper in the offseason, and he’ll serve as the No. 1 wide receiver in the offensive of coach Kevin Stefanski. While the system should include a bigger focus on the passing game with Deshaun Watson in the mix, it’s still notable that no wideout in a Stefanski offense has finished better than 20th in PPR fantasy points. — Fabiano
Browns Digest: More on Cleveland’s offseason
AFC SOUTH
TENNESSEE TITANS
Key additions: Treylon Burks, WR; DaShawn Hand, DE (FA); Austin Hooper, TE (FA); Roger McCreary, CB (draft); A.J. Moore, S (FA); Demarcus Walker, DL (FA); Malik Willis, QB (draft); Robert Woods, WR (trade)
Key losses: A.J. Brown, WR (trade); Jayon Brown, ILB (FA); Darrynton Evans, RB (released); Rashaan Evans, ILB (FA); Anthony Firkser, TE (FA); D’Onta Foreman, RB (FA); Jackrabbit Jenkins, CB (released); Julio Jones, WR (released); David Quessenberry, RT (FA); Rodger Saffiold, LG (released)
Offseason grade: C. GM Jon Robinson once again navigated a difficult salary cap situation with the release of several key veterans. Robinson also avoided any in-season contract drama with the trade of Brown to the Eagles during the first round of the draft.
There are serious questions about whether the Titans effectively filled the holes in their roster. There are no obvious replacements for Saffold and Quessenberry, who were fixtures on an offensive line that allowed too many sacks. The only proven wide receivers on the roster are Woods, who is on the mend from reconstructive knee surgery during the second half of last season, and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, an undrafted rookie in 2020 who has 41 career receptions.
Burks, the 18th pick in the draft, was alternately limited or unavailable for on-field work throughout the offseason because of issues with asthma. That comes after 2020 first-round pick Isaiah Wilson was cut after one forgettable season and 2021 first-round choice Caleb Farley contributed almost nothing because of injury issues.
Biggest question: Who is going to be quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s go-to guy on the outside? Brown was Tennessee’s leading receiver in each of his first three years in the league, and it was clear how much Tannehill trusted him. Westbrook-Ikhine is the only one who has any kind of established relationship with Tannehill. Someone has to emerge from a group that includes veteran journeyman Josh Malone, 2021 fourth-round pick Dez Fitzpatrick and long-time practice squad members Cody Hollister and Mason Kinsey as reliable and productive options, particularly while Woods and Burks work themselves into the offense. — David Boclair
Fantasy fact: Derrick Henry rushed the ball 219 times in eight games last season before getting hurt. That pace would have resulted in a full-season total of 465 carries, which would have shattered Larry Johnson’s NFL record 416 carries (2006). Between the regular season and playoffs, Henry has a league-high 1,021 carries since 2019. That’s a ton of work. — Fabiano
All Titans: More on Tennessee’s offseason
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Key additions: Matt Ryan, QB (trade); Yannick Ngakoue, DE (trade); Stephon Gilmore, CB (FA); Matt Pryor, OL (re-signed); Mo Alie-Cox, TE (re-signed); Alec Pierce, WR (draft); Nick Cross, S (draft); Brandon Facyson, CB (FA)
Key losses: Carson Wentz, QB (trade); Eric Fisher, OT (FA); Mark Glowinski, G (FA); Jack Doyle, TE (retired); Rock Ya-Sin, CB (trade); Zach Pascal, WR (FA); Khari Willis, S (retired); Xavier Rhodes, CB (FA); Al-Quadin Muhammad, DE (FA)
Offseason grade: A-. The Colts made significant upgrades at arguably the two most important positions; quarterback and edge rusher, while keeping much of their nucleus intact. Last year’s team looked like it could’ve beaten anyone in the NFL but one of its biggest issues was erratic quarterback play. Ryan should bring the stability, accountability and leadership the Colts are looking for. As for edge rusher, Ngakoue has been one of the NFL’s most consistent pass rushers throughout his career, never recording fewer than 44 total pressures (per PFF). The addition of Gilmore also represents an upgrade to the secondary. The Colts wisely moved on from Wentz and Fisher. However, not signing proven players at left tackle or wide receiver keeps them from receiving an even higher grade.
Biggest question: Who's the No. 1 receiver? The biggest mystery on the Colts roster is the pass catchers, both wide receivers and tight ends. The Colts elected not to sign established outside veterans in these spots, rather relying on the young players already on the roster and fortifying the group with explosive young talent through the draft. Still, behind top wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and tight end Mo Alie-Cox, none of the key players expected to contribute in 2022 had more than 13 receptions in 2021. The Colts will also rely heavily on running backs Jonathan Taylor and Nyheim Hines in the passing game, lessening the urgency at receiver and tight end, but proven depth is still lacking at those positions. Will a couple of players rise to the occasion in camp as the Colts expect? — Chad Jenson
Fantasy fact: During Ryan’s 14 years in Atlanta, the Falcons had 16 instances of wide receivers scoring 200-plus fantasy points. That includes Julio Jones and Roddy White, who each had at least one season with more than 300 points. That’s positive news for Pittman Jr., who had a near 26 percent target share in the Colts offense last season. — FabianoHorseshoe Huddle: More on Indianapolis’ offseason
Horseshoe Huddle: More on Indianapolis’ offseason
HOUSTON TEXANS
Key additions: Derek Stingley Jr., CB (draft); Kenyon Green, OL (draft); Jalen Pitre, S (draft); John Metchie III, WR (draft); Kyle Allen, QB (FA) Cedric Ogbuehi, OT (FA); Maliek Collins, DT (FA); A.J. Cann, G (FA); Stephen Nelson, CB (FA); Mario Addison, DE (FA); Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB (FA); Raheem Green, DE (FA); Andy Janovich, FB (FA)
Key losses: Justin Reid, S (FA); Jake Martin, OLB (FA); Tyrod Taylor, QB (FA); AJ Moore, S (FA);
Offseason Grade: A. The Texans had a fantastic offseason on all fronts, most notably through the draft, where they landed potentially four immediate starters in Stingley, Pitre, Green and Metchie III. But they also did an excellent job making financially smart free-agent signings at priority positions as well, including backup quarterback, defensive end and along the offensive line. But their biggest and best move of the offseason was trading Deshaun Watson to Cleveland, and clearing out the cloud that hung over the franchise.
Biggest question: How will Lovie Smith fix this team? The Texans were broken last season. A lot of that had to do with Watson. However, Smith has seemingly come in and revitalized the franchise. Can he keep it going when the losses start mounting up? — Matt Galatzan
Fantasy fact: The Texans will head into this season with Davis Mills as their starting quarterback. He won’t bring much fantasy fanfare in drafts, but he did finish his rookie year strong. Mills actually ranked 10th in fantasy points among signal-callers over the final five weeks and outscored Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins and Jalen Hurts during that time. — Fabiano
Texans Daily: More on Houston’s offseason
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Key additions: Christian Kirk, WR (FA); Travon Walker, OLB (draft); Brandon Scherff, OG (FA); Foyesade Oluokun, LB (FA); Evan Engram, TE (FA); Devin Lloyd, LB (draft); Foley Fatukasi, DL (FA); Darious Williams, CB (FA); Zay Jones, WR (FA)
Key losses: DJ Chark, WR (FA); Myles Jack, LB (FA); Andrew Norwell, OG (FA); A.J. Cann, OG (FA); Taven Bryan, DL (FA); Brandon Linder, C (retired)
Offseason grade: B-. The Jaguars were one of the most aggressive teams in free agency, giving significant contracts to Kirk, Scherff, Fatukasi, Williams, Oluokun, Engram and Jones. That is a long and expensive list of players with perhaps only one name who is considered a top talent at his position: Scherff. But the Jaguars significantly improved a roster that didn’t have much depth or experienced talent. While the Jaguars did overpay (four years, $84 million for Kirk) for several players, each player represents a clear upgrade to what the Jaguars had at the position last year. Whether this is a sustainable model for team building is questionable, but the Jaguars entered this offseason hoping to improve defensively and in the wide receiver and tight end room, and their moves did just that. The Jaguars’ draft was one of the more unique ones this year. They bucked conventional wisdom at No. 1 in Georgia’s Walker and then added a defensive player with two of their next three picks (Lloyd at No. 27, Muma at No. 70). The Jaguars turned linebacker and edge rusher into two strengths after a year in which each unit suffered through injuries and poor depth. And Luke Fortner, who was taken with the No. 65 pick, will instantly give the Jaguars improved depth at both center and guard.
Biggest question: Can running backs James Robinson and Travis Etienne stay healthy? Both are coming off serious season-ending injuries from a year ago. Etienne suffered a Lisfranc fracture in the preseason but was cleared for full practice at the start of OTAs, going on to shine with his explosiveness this spring. Robinson, meanwhile, suffered a torn Achilles in Week 16 and his return is uncertain. How close either is to 100% and what kind of impact they can have on the offense is a major question moving forward. — John Shipley
Fantasy fact: The Jaguars signed Kirk to a four-year, $72 million contract in the offseason. Over the last decade, the Jags have had just three receivers record more than 200 fantasy points and just one since 2016. Those wideouts, Allen Robinson, D.J. Chark and Allen Hurns, are also the lone receivers to post 1,000-plus yards during that time. — Fabiano
Jaguars Report: More on Jacksonville’s offseason
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