The NFL offseason is a time of speculation and anticipation, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how their favorite teams will perform in the upcoming season. While much attention is often focused on star players and high-profile signings, there are several key storylines that may be flying under the radar as the 2024 campaign approaches.
One such storyline involves the Miami Dolphins and their offensive line depth. While much has been made of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s contract situation, the Dolphins enter the 2024 season with question marks at both backup quarterback and along the offensive line. With starting left tackle Terron Armstead having a history of injuries and a lack of proven depth behind him, the Dolphins may find themselves in a precarious position if key players go down.
Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks boast a talented roster that could surprise many in the upcoming season. Despite questions at quarterback and along the offensive line, the Seahawks have a wealth of skill talent, including running back Kenneth Walker III and wide receivers DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. With a new defensive coordinator in Mike Macdonald, the Seahawks could be poised for a run at the NFC West title.
In Jacksonville, the Jaguars face uncertainty regarding who will be calling plays for quarterback Trevor Lawrence in the upcoming season. After a disappointing 2023 campaign, in which Lawrence struggled under offensive coordinator Press Taylor, head coach Doug Pederson has been tight-lipped about who will be in charge of the offense in 2024. With Pederson’s history of offensive struggles in Philadelphia, the Jaguars’ play-calling situation is one to watch as the season approaches.
Running backs have also seen a resurgence in value recently, with several high-profile backs signing lucrative contracts in free agency and the draft. Teams like the Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams have invested early-round picks in running backs, signaling a renewed emphasis on the ground game in today’s pass-happy NFL. With players like Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey setting new benchmarks for the position, running backs are once again proving their worth in the league.
Finally, the NFL’s new kickoff rules have the potential to shake up the game in unexpected ways. With teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Pittsburgh Steelers making efforts to optimize their return game, fans can expect to see a renewed focus on special teams play in the upcoming season. As the league adjusts to the new rules, both players and fans will need to familiarize themselves with the changes to ensure a smooth transition on game day.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, these storylines will be ones to watch, with potential implications for teams and players across the league. While the focus may often be on the biggest names and flashiest signings, it’s often the overlooked details that can make the biggest impact once the games begin.
