Pressure Cooker: 10 People in the NFL Facing the Most Heat in 2024
Pressure is a funny thing. It can bring out the best in people, or it can be the catalyst for downfall. In the NFL, pressure is a constant companion, and the 2024 season is no exception. As we count down the weeks until kickoff, it’s clear that some individuals and duos will be under more scrutiny than others.
The Heat is On
1. Jets GM Joe Douglas and Head Coach Robert Saleh
The Jets have a long history of disappointment, and it’s hard to blame the fans for feeling frustrated. With 13 straight seasons without a playoff berth, the pressure is on Douglas and Saleh to turn things around. Can they finally break the curse of mediocrity?
Jets’ fans have been waiting a long time for success
2. Cowboys Head Coach Mike McCarthy
Mike McCarthy is a coach with a track record of success, but his recent postseason performances have left a lot to be desired. With a 1-3 combined postseason record, it’s clear that the Cowboys need to do better. McCarthy’s job is on the line, and he needs to prove himself in 2024.
McCarthy’s postseason woes have been well-documented
3. Steelers QB Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson has been one of the most successful quarterbacks of the past decade, but his recent decline is a cause for concern. With a new team and a fresh start, Wilson needs to prove that he still has what it takes to be an elite QB.
Wilson is under pressure to perform in Pittsburgh
4. Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa
Tua Tagovailoa is a young quarterback with a lot of potential, but he’s still waiting for a long-term deal. With the Dolphins hesitant to commit to him fully, Tagovailoa needs to have a breakout season in 2024.
Tua is looking for a big season in 2024
5. Bears Head Coach Matt Eberflus
Matt Eberflus is a coach on the hot seat, and he knows it. With a struggling offense and a tough schedule ahead, Eberflus needs to get his team on track quickly.
Eberflus is under pressure to turn things around in Chicago
6. Falcons CEO Rich McKay and GM Terry Fontenot
The Falcons’ front office has been under scrutiny for months, and it’s clear that changes need to be made. With a new head coach and a retooled roster, McKay and Fontenot need to get it right in 2024.
The Falcons’ front office is under pressure to succeed
7. Eagles RB Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley is a talented running back with a lot to prove. After a rocky stint with the Giants, Barkley needs to show that he’s still an elite player.
Barkley is looking to prove himself in Philly
8. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott
Dak Prescott is a quarterback with a lot of talent and a lot of pressure. With a ticking clock on his contract and a tough schedule ahead, Prescott needs to have a big season in 2024.
Prescott is under pressure to perform in Dallas
9. Texans WR Stefon Diggs
Stefon Diggs is a talented receiver with a reputation for being difficult. After forcing his way out of two situations, Diggs needs to prove that he’s worth the trouble.
Diggs is looking for a fresh start in Houston
10. Bengals Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo
Lou Anarumo is a defensive coordinator with a lot to prove. After a lackluster performance in 2023, Anarumo needs to get his unit on track quickly.
Anarumo is under pressure to improve the Bengals’ defense
Pressure is a powerful motivator, and it will be interesting to see how these individuals and duos respond in 2024. One thing is for sure: the heat is on.
