Remaining Roster Holes for NFL Teams Heading into Summer Break
ICARO Media Group
As the NFL heads into its summer break, teams are preparing for the upcoming training camps and looking to address the remaining roster holes. Despite the completion of the 2024 NFL Draft and multiple waves of free agency, there are still areas of concern for every organization. Let's take a closer look at some of the biggest remaining roster holes scattered across the league.
1. Dallas Cowboys: Running Back
The Cowboys face a dilemma at the running back position. While Ezekiel Elliott played adequately last season, his yards per attempt were the lowest of his career. With concerns about his efficiency, the Cowboys lack a low-cost rookie option to lean on, making it necessary for the team to consider adding another quality back.
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edge Rusher
After Shaq Barrett's departure, the Buccaneers have a gap in their defensive front. Barrett led the team in quarterback pressures last season, and the remaining edge defenders do not possess the same level of productivity. Adding a veteran presence to the position would greatly enhance their chances of clinching a fourth consecutive division title.
3. New York Jets: Tight End
The Jets currently lack a standout tight end option on their roster. Tyler Conklin, the top player in the TE depth chart, is a fine supplemental player, but he may not command attention or significantly boost production. Strengthening this position would alleviate some of the pressure on the receiving group, particularly if Mike Williams is slow to recover from a torn ACL.
4. Miami Dolphins: Offensive Line
Miami's offensive line was substantially weakened last season due to injuries, and the team has yet to adequately address the issue. With concerns about pass protection and instability at the guard positions, the Dolphins must focus on solidifying their offensive line to offer better protection for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
5. New England Patriots: Offensive Line
The Patriots have significant depth questions throughout their offensive line, especially at the left tackle position. The options currently available are primarily right tackles, and their performance last season was underwhelming. With a rookie signal-caller potentially taking over in the near future, the Patriots must address the offensive line to ensure their young quarterback's protection.
6. Chicago Bears: Edge Rusher
Chicago's defensive front lacks a sufficient edge-rushing complement to Montez Sweat. While DeMarcus Walker and Dominique Robinson have shown promise, the group struggled to generate enough pressure without Sweat. The Bears are heavily reliant on Sweat and their defensive scheme, but the addition of another pass rusher may be necessary.
7. Washington Football Team: Offensive Line
The left tackle position for Washington is a cause for concern. The team did not address this position adequately in free agency and relied on a third-round draft pick to fill the role. With a rookie quarterback in Jayden Daniels, the offensive line needs to provide sufficient protection to allow his elusiveness to mitigate any issues.
8. Chicago Bears: Wide Receiver
The Bears lack a true No. 1 wide receiver on their roster. Their current options, including rookie Ladd McConkey, do not possess overwhelming production or consistency. Adding a veteran receiver to complement Justin Herbert during this transition year would significantly benefit the team.
9. Pittsburgh Steelers: Wide Receiver
The Steelers' receiver room is a topic of concern among fans and analysts. George Pickens stands as the primary option, but beyond that, there are many uncertainties. The team is relying on low-production mid-round rookies and gadget players to fill the void. The addition of a veteran wide receiver before the start of the season would bring stability to the position.
10. Atlanta Falcons: Edge Rusher
The Falcons once again face questions about their edge pressure. Their top pass rushers from last season, Calais Campbell and Bud Dupree, are no longer on the roster. The remaining edge defenders do not possess the same level of production, and the team is relying on coaching and development to compensate for the lack of pressure. However, additional help is needed to strengthen their defense and boost their chances of reaching the playoffs.
As teams head into the summer break, these roster holes will remain a focal point for general managers and coaches. With the lingering free agents and potential roster cuts, there may still be opportunities to address these areas of need before training camps commence.