NFL free agency has not even officially opened and yet it seems most of the big names have already been spoken for. Free agency is often viewed as an opportunity for teams to fill positional needs but it is also a moment that leads to gaping voids being created on a roster.
Here are how teams who have lost notable free agents could replace those players through the 2024 NFL Draft:
Minnesota Vikings
QB Kirk Cousins to sign with Falcons: Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy
Denver and Minnesota stand out as the two most likely suitors for McCarthy. When considering what head coaches Sean Payton and Kevin O’Connell have preferred in the past, the criteria is similar: a pocket passer, first and foremost, who throws with touch, rhythm and consistency. McCarthy is a proven winner with a tough, gritty approach; all qualities that will endear him to the likes of Payton, O’Connell and others.
Only one can land the prospect, however, and the Vikings pick one spot ahead of Denver. At the end of the day, any team that is interested in McCarthy may have to trade up to secure his rights. Minnesota is a team that has quietly explored trading up for a quarterback the past few years. With Cousins moving on to Atlanta, the table is cleared for the selection of McCarthy.
Baltimore Ravens
LB Patrick Queen to sign with Steelers: N.C. State LB Payton Wilson
Baltimore made a big move a year ago acquiring linebacker Roquan Smith from Chicago. In hindsight, the move likely spelled the end of former first-round pick Patrick Queen’s time with the Ravens. The team has last year’s third-round pick, Trenton Simpson, and recently re-signed Malik Harrison. However, the jury is still out and the AFC North franchise could be looking for consistency from Smith’s running mate.
Wilson has aced the pre-draft process. He is a free spirit as a football prospect: fast and rangy. Baltimore could target him with the No. 62…
Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-how-kirk-cousins-josh-jacobs-and-others-can-be-replaced-by-their-former-teams/
Author : Josh Edwards
Publish date : 2024-03-13 13:45:20
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