Seven NFL Teams Under Pressure to Succeed in 2024
The 2024 NFL season is just around the corner, and several teams are under immense pressure to perform. Whether it’s due to high expectations, underwhelming performances last season, or coaching hot seats, these teams need to deliver.
The New York Jets: A Season of Redemption?
The New York Jets are under the most pressure to succeed this season. After acquiring Aaron Rodgers last year, the team’s expectations were sky-high. However, Rodgers’ season-ending injury on the fourth play of the 2023 season was a massive setback. The team’s defense was phenomenal, finishing first in PFF grade and third in EPA per play, but the offense struggled without Rodgers.
This season, the Jets have bolstered their offense with the additions of Mike Williams, Tyron Smith, John Simpson, Morgan Moses, Olu Fashanu, and Malachi Corley. With Rodgers back under center, the Jets need to make the playoffs and win a game to justify their offseason moves.
Aaron Rodgers is back, and the Jets need him to deliver
The Philadelphia Eagles: Bouncing Back from Disappointment
The Philadelphia Eagles had a disappointing 2023 season, imploding down the stretch and losing six of their last seven games, including a wild-card loss to the Buccaneers. The team’s defense was a major concern, ranking 28th in PFF coverage grade.
To address this, the Eagles drafted defensive backs Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean with their top two selections. They also hired revered defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to replace the makeshift tandem of Sean Desai and Matt Patricia.
The Eagles need their defense to step up in 2024
The Miami Dolphins: Ending the Playoff Drought
The Miami Dolphins have not won a playoff game in 24 years, and the pressure is on to end this drought. The team has a talented roster, with Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and Tua Tagovailoa leading the offense. The defense, which was ravaged by injuries last season, should be healthier this year, with the returns of Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips.
Tua Tagovailoa needs to lead the Dolphins to the playoffs
The Dallas Cowboys: Dak Prescott’s Contract Year
The Dallas Cowboys are under pressure to perform, especially with Dak Prescott’s contract expiring soon. The team needs to retain both Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, but cap casualties may be necessary to make it happen. Head coach Mike McCarthy is also under scrutiny, having failed to reach the NFC Championship game despite a talented roster.
Dak Prescott needs to lead the Cowboys to the playoffs
The Atlanta Falcons: Turning the Corner
The Atlanta Falcons have gone 7-10 in each of the past three seasons, and it’s time for a change. The team has a new head coach in Raheem Morris and a new offensive coordinator in Zac Robinson. With a talented roster, including Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, the Falcons need to make the playoffs for the first time in seven years.
Bijan Robinson needs to lead the Falcons to the playoffs
The Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence’s Breakout Year
The Jacksonville Jaguars have gone 9-8 in each of the past two years, but the perception surrounding the team is vastly different. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is now tied for the highest-paid player in NFL history, and expectations are higher than ever. With a talented roster, including Evan Engram, Christian Kirk, and Brian Thomas Jr., the Jaguars need to make a deep playoff run.
Trevor Lawrence needs to lead the Jaguars to the playoffs
The Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams’ Rookie Year
The Chicago Bears have gone 10-24 over the past two years, but they finally have the components to be good. With Caleb Williams under center, the Bears need to make a push for the playoffs. General manager Ryan Poles has made several key signings, including Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, Kevin Byard, and D’Andre Swift.
Caleb Williams needs to lead the Bears to the playoffs
These seven teams are under immense pressure to succeed in 2024. Will they rise to the challenge, or will they falter under the weight of expectations?
