The NFL season has already claimed its first casualties from injuries and that will have an impact on rosters across the league.
Notable names added to the Injured Reserve lists this week include Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward, Seahawks offensive tackle Abe Lucas, Browns offensive tackle Jack Conklin, Ravens running back JK Dobbins, Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp and, of course, Jets Quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the most pressing position needs for each NFL team:
AFC
Bengals: Offensive guard
- Projected key free agents: DT DJ Reader, WR Tee Higgins, WR Tyler Boyd, OT Jonah Williams, CB Chidobe Awuzie
Cincinnati doesn’t have a pressing need at any particular spot as the starting lineup is well positioned. The franchise has invested significant resources into the offensive line over the last two offseasons, but still needs to fill positions before Joe Burrow can feel confident. Jonah Williams is a relatively unknown player at the right tackle position. Alex Cappa and Ted Karras played well last season, but the team needs to identify some long-term building blocks. Cordell Volson will start at left back.
Safety is another position to consider as Dax Hill has not seen extended playing time to date.
Bills: Linebacker
- Projected key free agents: S Micah Hyde, EDGE Leonard Floyd, EDGE AJ Epenesa, WR Gabriel Davis, DT Poona Ford
There are no major flaws that stand out, as Buffalo filled some of its most pressing needs in the draft by taking Utah tight end Dalton Kincaid and Florida offensive lineman O’Cyrus Torrence. However, they did not vigorously attempt to replace Tremaine Edmunds after he left in free agency. They have a few options in the squad, but none are up to the challenge yet.
Broncos: Defensive line
- Projected key free agents: LB Josey Jewell, K Wil Lutz, EDGE Frank Clark, CB K’Waun Williams, S Kareem Jackson
Dre’Mont Jones left Denver in free agency. The Broncos are left with some above-average players at the position, and one has to wonder if that’s sustainable going forward. Mike Purcell, aged 32, is one of the main authors. Length and depth have been crucial during head coach Sean Payton’s time with the Saints, and that will be a challenge as he begins his time with Denver.
Wide receiver should be improved with the return of Jerry Jeudy.
- Projected key free agents: WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, EDGE Za’Darius Smith, S Grant Delpit, DT Shelby Harris, WR Marquise Goodwin
If they are able to stay healthy, linebackers shouldn’t be much of a problem for Cleveland. The problem is that Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, Tony Fields II, Sione Takitaki and Anthony Walker Jr. have all struggled with injuries in recent years. They’ve already lost Jacob Phillips and Jordan Kunaszyk at least temporarily to injuries. Phillips was lost for the year. The unit should benefit greatly from an improved interior defensive line in front of them.
Chargers: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: RB Austin Ekeler, TE Gerald Everett, LB Kenneth Murray, DT Austin Johnson, CB Michael Davis
Los Angeles has brought new players to the position in recent offseasons, but hasn’t achieved the results they hoped for. Morgan Fox, Sebastian Joseph-Day and Austin Johnson need to be the best versions of themselves. There are also similarities between rookie Scott Matlock and Fox.
The secondary could also be a concern, but before that becomes clear, they have to play someone other than Miami.
Chiefs: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: DT Chris Jones, OT Donovan Smith, S Mike Edwards, LB Willie Gay Jr., CB L’Jarius Sneed
Kansas City seemed lost at wide receiver in its opening loss, but ultimately it’s the defensive tackles who apply the most pressure. They lost some of their interior defensive line in free agency, so the Chiefs are essentially stuck with Chris Jones, who has been waiting for a new contract. Jones has been fantastic for the reigning Super Bowl champions, but the Chiefs will need to continue to strengthen their defense to withstand some of these grueling AFC battles. In the later rounds of the NFL Draft, they took Keondre Coburn from Texas and traded him for Neil Farrell Jr., but that may not suit their needs for the upcoming season.
The talent collection will be worth discussing if it doesn’t improve upon the return of Travis Kelce.
Colts: Secondary
- Projected key free agents: RB Jonathan Taylor, WR Michael Pittman Jr., DT Grover Stewart, CB Kenny Moore, QB Gardner Minshew
The secondary was a concern in the loss to Jacksonville in Week 1. Trevor Lawrence completed 75% of his passes. According to TruMedia, Indianapolis’ defense was responsible for eight missed tackles.
Running back is also an issue, but that was hard to predict given the situation with Jonathan Taylor.
Dolphins: Offensive guard
- Projected key free agents: DT Christian Wilkins, DT Raekwon Davis, C Connor Williams, OG Robert Hunt, LB Jerome Baker
Tight end is the most talent-lacking position on the roster, but offensive guard will have a bigger impact on the season. Free agent signing Isaiah Wynn has moved to left guard, which is relatively unheard of at this level. The offensive tackle play was significantly improved last season, and Connor Williams was fantastic at center in his first season after being signed in free agency. Miami’s offensive guard play hasn’t lived up to expectations and the season hinges on the health of Tua Tagovailoa.
The linebackers’ play was disappointing in Week 1, but they have the talent to bounce back.
Jaguars: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: EDGE Josh Allen, WR Calvin Ridley, OG Ben Bartch, K Brandon McManus, EDGE K’Lavon Chaisson
Week 1 leads me to believe that the offensive line may be a bigger problem, but only time will tell. Right now, defensive tackle has the lowest ceiling on the roster. They need consistent play from this group as the rest of the squad is ready to compete in this division.
Jacksonville has invested heavily in the cornerback position in recent years. The Jaguars signed free agents Darious Williams and Shaq Griffin and selected CJ Henderson in the first round and Tyson Campbell in the second round, who remains a building block at the position. The Jaguars need more from this group, especially after firing Griffin. They picked up three flyers at the position in the late round and the group as a whole looked good in Week 1.
Jets: Offensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: EDGE Carl Lawson, OT Duane Brown, RB Dalvin Cook, WR Mecole Hardman, S Jordan Whitehead
The biggest problem could be quarterback following Aaron Rodgers’ injury. While Zach Wilson’s performance didn’t exactly inspire confidence, they’ll probably give him a game or two to lose confidence. Left tackle Duane Brown recently turned 38 and Mekhi Becton was rotated to the right side. It is reasonable to ask whether either is a viable solution for the duration of the season. General manager Joe Douglas has assembled a roster that has few limitations, but offensive tackle is one of them.
Patriots: Offensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: OT Trent Brown, TE Hunter Henry, S Kyle Dugger, EDGE Josh Uche, OG Mike Onwenu
New England should start Trent Brown — who has played six of his eight seasons at right tackle — at left guard and 34-year-old Riley Reiff at right guard. The position was already considered a concern, then it was announced that Reiff would miss at least the first four games on injured reserve. Calvin Anderson started at right tackle after three seasons with the Broncos. It wasn’t an overwhelming performance. Theoretically, in a pinch, the team could move starting guard Michael Onwenu to right tackle, where he played the better part of four games as a rookie in 2021, but he is also dealing with an injury.
Raiders: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: RB Josh Jacobs, TE Austin Hooper, CB Marcus Peters, C Andre James, OT Jermaine Eluemunor
There are glaring weaknesses on both sides of the ball, including defensive tackle and cornerback. The depth at edge rusher will be reduced if Chandler Jones doesn’t show up.
Las Vegas addressed essentially every position except offensive line during the draft. It’s a big area of concern as Jimmy Garoppolo establishes himself as the starter. Greg Van Roten seems like a quality addition, but is this a viable long-term solution? The Raiders have a plethora of weapons in the passing game, but Garoppolo may not have the time to distribute the football.
Ravens: Running back
- Projected key free agents: DT Justin Madubuike, RB JK Dobbins, WR Odell Beckham Jr., OG Kevin Zeitler, DT Michael Pierce
JK Dobbins’ injury has forced Baltimore to move to the running back position. Essentially, they’re left with Justice Hill, Gus Edwards and Melvin Gordon. Will one of them take on the burden of carrying the team’s running game? It’s an all-too-familiar situation for Baltimore.
The young edge rushers competed against the Texans.
- Projected key free agents: CB Levi Wallace, EDGE Markus Golden, QB Mason Rudolph, CB Desmond King, WR Miles Boykin
Linebacker was and still is an issue for the ever-consistent AFC franchise. Cole Holcomb is a high-volume tackler and Elandon Roberts was a reliable player during part of New England’s run. It’s not a high-ceiling group, but the Steelers’ defensive line is one of the best in the league. They will keep some of those blockers away from the secondary talent.
Cam Heyward has been placed on injured reserve, meaning he will miss the next four weeks. They are well placed to weather his loss as rookie Keeanu Benton showed promise in his debut. Montravius Adams and Larry Ogunjobi have experience at this level.
The offense as a whole was really disappointing, especially the offensive line.
Texans: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: OT Josh Jones, DT Sheldon Rankins, TE Dalton Schultz, RB Devin Singletary, CB Shaquill Griffin
If you look closely, Houston has a viable contributor at almost every position, but defensive line is the most pressing need, even after adding Will Anderson Jr. at No. 3 overall. Last season they lacked real difference makers who could influence the opposing quarterback and keep up at the point of attack. Demeco Ryans’ starting unit isn’t bad, but it lacks depth, and that’s an area where teams want the ability to rotate players in and out.
The interior offensive line also had major problems in the opening game.
- Projected key free agents: QB Ryan Tannehill, RB Derrick Henry, DT Teair Tart, DT Denico Autry, CB Sean Murphy-Bunting
From an individual position perspective, head coach Mike Vrabel has a big need at the position he played in the NFL. The average fan would have a hard time naming a linebacker on their roster. Fortunately, the defensive line is a strength, so some of those linebackers should become available.
The offensive line is still a work in progress. However, they received valuable contributions from newcomers Peter Skoronski, Chris Hubbard and Daniel Brunskill.
NFC
49ers: Interior offensive line
- Projected key free agents: QB Sam Darnold, DT Javon Kinlaw, S Tashaun Gipson, LB Oren Burks, EDGE Clelin Ferrell
San Francisco gives Colton McKivitz a shot at right tackle after Mike McGlinchey leaves in free agency; This could prove to be a big need for the 49ers. However, this is compounded by the lack of confidence in the interior offensive line. Spencer Burford had some success as a rookie, but he will be relied upon heavily this season. The offensive scheme takes some of the pressure off.
Bears: Interior offensive line
- Projected key free agents: WR Darnell Mooney, EDGE Yannick Ngakoue, WR Chase Claypool, RB D’Onta Foreman, DT Justin Jones
Where do you start discussing the crime? They fought mightily. The interior offensive line could be solid, but it could also be very bad. The floor is much lower than the ceiling is high. Depth is a bigger problem.
Edge rusher had been a big need, but they made good free agent signings in Yannick Ngakoue and DeMarcus Walker. The starting defensive tackles aren’t consistent success stories, but they do have some promising young talent behind them.
Buccaneers: Interior offensive line
- Projected key free agents: WR Mike Evans, LB Devin White, LB Lavonte David, S Antoine Winfield Jr., QB Baker Mayfield
The defense is made up of big names and proven veterans. Most of them will be free agents after the season. Tampa Bay’s offensive line is a mystery. His most proven asset is Tristan Wirfs, who switches from right tackle to left, but he looked great in the opening game. New right tackle Luke Goedeke played left guard last season but also looked solid. Right guard Cody Mauch made his first appearance. It may be working out well, but there are a lot of things moving in front of first-year starting quarterback Baker Mayfield.
- Projected key free agents: WR Hollywood Brown, EDGE LJ Collier, QB Josh Dobbs, CB Antonio Hamilton, WR Greg Dortch
Spin a wheel and represent the defensive position the Cardinals land on. There are many names in their defense that would baffle the average fan. The Cardinals need help on the outside and inside of the defensive line. The Cardinals lost JJ Watt to retirement, but Zach Allen also left as a free agent. First-year head coach Jonathan Gannon comes from a situation where he had a plethora of options on defense. Cornerback is another area of need and the offensive line was in shambles in Week 1.
- Projected key free agents: EDGE Chase Young, EDGE Montez Sweat, S Kamren Curl, QB Jacoby Brissett, WR Curtis Samuel
Washington selected Mississippi State cornerback Emmanuel Forbes in the first round, which opened the door for the team to explore other positions as the draft progressed. With a young quarterback expected this season, it’s important for the Commanders to find a reliable backup at tight end for Sam Howell. Tight ends accounted for 45 receptions and fewer than 500 yards last season. Logan Thomas is the most reliable of the bunch, but even he struggles with injuries.
Cowboys: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: OT Tyron Smith, RB Tony Pollard, CB Stephon Gilmore, EDGE Dorance Armstrong, S Jayron Kearse
The Cowboys looked great in Week 1. If they were forced to pick a position based on Week 1, it would have to be running back, but it may be too early to make that claim.
Dallas’ starting unit was bolstered this offseason, so you’ll have to split hairs to find a reasonable pick to address the team’s most pressing need. The Cowboys have players filling important roles, but play hasn’t been consistent, which is why they drafted Mazi Smith out of Michigan in the first round. With some young talent on the roster, the hope is that this will become a strong position for the Cowboys by the end of the season. Defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is known for getting the best out of his players.
- Projected key free agents: C Jason Kelce, EDGE Brandon Graham, DT Fletcher Cox, EDGE Derek Barnett, RB D’Andre Swift
There is no shortage of talent on the Philadelphia roster. The Eagles have essentially addressed every problem area on their roster. Reed Blankenship gained valuable playing experience last season and Justin Evan was helpful. The Eagles don’t have any glaring weaknesses yet.
- Projected key free agents: C Matt Hennessy, CB Jeff Okudah, EDGE Calais Campbell, RB Cordarrelle Patterson, EDGE Bud Dupree
Although the pass catcher pictures could have been placed on a milk carton after Week 1, linebacker is still a more pressing need. Atlanta has added some strength to its defensive front this offseason, but the linebacker group remains a problem. They will continue to develop Troy Andersen, but will be overly reliant on unproven talent around him.
Giants: Interior offensive line
- Projected key free agents: DT Leonard Williams, CB Adoree’ Jackson, RB Saquon Barkley, WR Parris Campbell, DT A’Shawn Robinson
New York had a tough day across the board against Dallas. It is difficult to determine a need position based on their performance. The wide receiver group has been disappointing, but the interior offensive line is coming through. In fact, it could have been extended to the entire offensive line.
They also need to create more pass rush opportunities.
Lions: Cornerback
- Projected key free agents: OG Jonah Jackson, S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, CB Emmanuel Moseley, QB Teddy Bridgewater, EDGE Romeo Okwara
Detroit was impressive in its Week 1 win over Kansas City. The group rose to the occasion, but the success of the cornerbacks could be directly tied to the struggles of the Chiefs’ pass catchers. According to TruMedia, they were credited with three drops and ended several rides.
- Projected key free agents: EDGE Rashan Gary, RB AJ Dillon, OT Yosh Nijman, OG Jon Runyan, S Darnell Savage
Green Bay has some interior offensive players who have played well, but this is an important year for this group. They may need to direct some assets in this direction next year. However, security is more of a problem for the coming season. Darnell Savage was a disappointment and there’s little to be confident about in this room.
- Projected key free agents: EDGE Brian Burns, S Jeremy Chinn, LB Frankie Luvu, WR DJ Chark, EDGE Justin Houston
Carolina drafted the quarterback of the future when Alabama’s Bryce Young was announced as the No. 1 overall pick. Wide receivers struggled to create separation.
After the draft, cornerback remains a position that could be addressed in the short and long term. They’ve added some guys to the edge rusher and defensive tackle roles, but other than returning stars Derrick Brown and edge rusher Brian Burns, no one is locked in as a regular contributor; except maybe Shy Tuttle.
Rams: Edge rusher
- Projected key free agents: WR Van Jefferson, WR Demarcus Robinson, S Jordan Fuller, RB Cam Akers, S John Johnson
The interior offensive line was a big need after the offensive tackle positions around it fell apart last season. The Rams signed TCU interior offensive lineman Steve Avila and traded him for Kevin Dotson. They should be significantly improved. The attention turns to the defensive side of the ball.
Cornerback Jalen Ramsey was traded. The group played better than expected at the start. There are holes throughout the roster, but the pass rush is the biggest concern. Jonah Williams, Earnest Brown, Byron Young Nick Hampton, Michael Hoecht and Zach VanValkenburg – who from this group has proven that they can heat up the opposing quarterback at this level? Los Angeles needs someone to step up from the bottom half of the league.
Saints: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: OG Andrus Peat, C Cesar Ruiz, QB Jameis Winston, OT James Hurst, EDGE Carl Granderson
New Orleans signed Clemson’s Bryan Bresee to create a pass rush from the inside, but this is a group that needs to get stronger in the middle. They signed Khalen Saunders and Nathan Shepherd in the offseason, but these two have big shoes to fill. The defensive line has set the tone for NFC South franchises for years, and this season they may be missing that advantage.
Seahawks: Offensive guard
- Projected key free agents: OG Damien Lewis, LB Bobby Wagner, EDGE Mario Edwards, EDGE Darrell Taylor, LB Devin Bush
General Manager John Schneider has found several long-term employees in the last two years. Offensive guard is the biggest need for this team. The Seahawks could use a starter and certainly need accountable depth.
They need to find more consistent pass rush options to take some of the pressure off the secondary. Seattle is one of five teams that didn’t record a sack in Week 1.
Vikings: Defensive tackle
- Projected key free agents: QB Kirk Cousins, EDGE Danielle Hunter, EDGE Marcus Davenport, OG Ezra Cleveland, LB Jordan Hicks
Minnesota has lost two games this season by a total of nine points. They are allowing 166.0 rushing yards per game this season. The Vikings need to get stronger at the point of contact. The cornerback group fared better than expected.