At this point in the season, no one is healthy. There have been more injuries to starting quarterbacks this season than years prior, which puts stress on teams to find other ways to arrive at victory.
Some of the notable names added to injured reserve this week include Giants offensive tackle Evan Neal, Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson, Jets offensive tackle Duane Brown and Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson.
With that in mind, here is a look at the most pressing positional needs for every NFL team entering Week 17.
AFC
Projected key free agents: DT D.J. Reader, WR Tee Higgins, WR Tyler Boyd, OT Jonah Williams, CB Chidobe Awuzie
The Bengals are allowing 256.1 passing yards per game, which is fifth-most in the NFL. They put a lot of faith in a young cornerback room that has understandably seen its share of ups-and-downs this season. Cam Taylor-Britt was added to the injured reserve Dec. 4.
The franchise has invested significant resources into the offensive line over the past two offseasons, but still have positions to fill. The unit has not played up to expectations as it is allowing pressure, on average, in 2.38 seconds, according to TruMedia; the fifth-worst margin in the league.
Cincinnati added defensive tackle D.J. Reader to the injured reserve this week. Zach Carter will see more repetitions alongside B.J. Hill with Reader out.
Bills: Defensive tackle
Buffalo is charging towards the postseason with some momentum and teams will not want to play them. One cause for concern is the middle of the defense. Defensive tackles DaQuan Jones and Jordan Phillips and linebacker Matt Milano are on the injured reserve. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver has been slowed down by injury as well. Terrel Bernard, Tyrel Dodson and Dorian Williams have been asked to grow up in a hurry as the team attempts to fill a need at the position.
Broncos: Defensive tackle
Despite a really…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/every-nfl-teams-biggest-need-entering-week-17-how-the-patriots-and-vikings-replace-key-offensive-pieces/
Author : Josh Edwards
Publish date : 2023-12-29 15:13:53
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