NFL OFFSEASON PREVIEW - 680 The Fan | 680 The Fan€¦ · year several teams made signicant moves that proved to be major factors during the 2019 season. ... Shrek 2 was the box office

NFLOFFSEASONPREVIEW2020

680 The Fan’s Carlos Medina aka “Front Office Los”breaks down all 32 NFL teams with in-depth

analysis and research covering the2020 offseason.

Follow Carlos Medina on Twitter @frontofficelos

Good Players GetGreat Contracts

Free Agents 2020 forAll 32 Teams

Who’s Getting CutThis Offseason

The FalconsSearch for Sacks

THE 2020 OFFSEASON

NFL Offseason Preview 2020

Champions Are Made In The OffseasonWelcome to the 2020 NFL Offseason. This is the point where every NFL team has the chance tosignificantly alter their upcoming season with shrewd moves in both free agency and the draft. Just lastyear several teams made signicant moves that proved to be major factors during the 2019 season.

The Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs traded threepicks including a first and second rounder for Seahawksdefensive end Frank Clark. Clark would record eight sacksduring the season, and the most important sack of the postseason. Clark sacked 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppoloto end the final drive threat in the Super Bowl.

The Baltimore Ravens added running back Mark Ingram toadd a physical running presence to their offense. Ingramrushed for over 1,000 yards and averaged five yards percarry for the 14-2 Ravens.

The Buffalo Bills committed to overhauling their offensive line last offseason. Team generalmanager Brandon Beane signed six veterans and drafted tackle Cody Ford in the second round. Thegroup became the foundation for quarterback Josh Allen and running back Devin Singletary tomake a return to the playoffs.

The Tennessee Titans took on quarterback Ryan Tannehill in what was a salary dump for theMiami Dolphins. The Titans traded 4th and 7th round picks in exchange for a 6th round pick and aquarterback that helped take them to the AFC Championship Game.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed former Denver Broncoslinebacker Shaquil Barrett to a one-year deal. The plan was toallow Barrett to be an every-down pass rusher. Barrettrecorded 19.5 sacks in 2019. Barrett had recorded 14 sackstotal in his previous five seasons.

Everyone who got involved with former Steelers receiverAntonio Brown had a poor experience. Not every move is agreat one. Sometimes it truly comes down to the move yourorganization decides not to make.

Making The Moves

PRESSURE PLAYERS

Atlanta Falcons Offseason 2020

The Search for 40The year was 2004. Usher featuring Lil Jon and Ludacris had the biggest hit in the country with“Yeah!”, Shrek 2 was the box office leader and President Bush beat Senator Kerry in a presidentialelection. 2004 was the last season the Atlanta Falcons were able to record 40 team sacks in a season.Yes, it’s been that long since this team could regularly put quarterbacks on the ground.

It’s not for a lack of trying. Players such as PatrickKerney and John Abraham have donned the red andblack and have terrorized quarterbacks in the last 15seasons. While individual players have had greatseasons, the team as a group has not been formidable inthis important statistical accomplishment.

The 40 sack number is not an irrational goal for NFLdefenses. Consider that 17 teams in the NFL recorded atleast 40 sacks last season. In a league that features somuch passing, getting to the 40 sack plateau is supposedto be easier than it was 15 years ago.

With the Falcons set to part ways with pass rusher Vic Beasley, who led the NFL in sacks in 2016, theFalcons this offseason will once again be in the market for pass rushers. Former first round pick TakkMcKinley managed just 3.5 sacks in 2019 as the Falcons will have until May to decide if they want topick up his 5th year contract option.

Atlanta Falcons Offseason 2020

Falcons Team Sacks By Year

2019 - 28

2018 - 37

2017 - 39

2016 - 34

2015 - 19

2014 - 22

2013 - 32

2012 - 29

2011 - 33

2010 - 31

2009 - 28

2008 - 34

2007 - 25

2006 - 37

2005 - 39

2004 - 41

NFCSOUTH2020

TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEWS

Just as in the past, the NFC South is defined byquarterback news and career decisions.


New Orleans SaintsGM: Mickey LoomisCoach: Sean Payton2019 Record: 13-3

Atlanta FalconsGM: Thomas DmitroffCoach: Dan Quinn2019 Record: 7-9

Tampa Bay BuccaneersGM: Jason LichtCoach: Bruce Arians2019 Record: 7-9

Carolina PanthersGM: Marty HurneyCoach: Matt Rhule2019 Record: 5-11

Janoris Jenkins, CB: Jenkins will be 32 years old in 2020, and the previous contract hesigned with the Giants is still the contract he’s playing under. Jenkins is set to countmore than $11M dollars against the cap. Jenkins is due a roster bonus in March that willindicate if the team is keeping or cutting him. Cap savings: $11.2M

Nick Easton, G: Backup player who was unable to be active consistently on game day.Played in 10 games while starting six in 2019. Easton is set to count more than $5Magainst the cap in 2020. Cap savings: $4M

(-image source cbssports.com)

Targets for Release/Restructure

New Orleans2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 9thDef. Rank: 11th

2019 Record: 13-3 Projected Cap Space: $12 million

Key Free Agents

Drew Brees, QB -Threw 27touchdowns and justfour interceptions in11 starts. It will beentirely up to him asto whether to playin 2020 or retire.

Teddy Bridgewater,QB - Posted a 5-0record subbing infor an injured DrewBrees. Just 27 yearsold and looks to befully back fromdevastating leginjury.

Andrus Peat, G - Theformer first roundpick found a homeat guard starting tengames and posting asolid season.

Taysom Hill, QB(RFA) - Hill willrequire a tenderoffer in order tosecure his servicesand protect himfrom another team.Future starter for theSaints.

Eli Apple, CB -Played well as thesecond corner toMarshon Lattimore.Will be just 25 as heenters his sixth yearin the league in2020.

The past three seasons the New OrleansSaints have been one of the best teams in theNFL. They have accumulated a regularseason record of 37-11 during the time periodand have been one of the best teams in termsof overall offensive and defensive rankings.

But with a 2-3 record in the playoffs, theSaints previous three seasons have ended inheartbreaking fashion. Two of those threelosses have occured in overtime, as 2019ended at the hands of the Minnesota Vikingsagain.

This offseason will be determined in largepart by what quarterback Drew Brees decidesto do with his career. Brees recently turned41, and has stated that he’s going to be aSaint for life. It’s clear that Brees either

intends to play another year in New Orleansor retire to his family.

If Brees does decide to retire, the team willnot be without options. Backup quarterbackTeddy Bridgewater led the team to a 5-0record in his starts after Brees injured histhumb. Versatile quarterback Taysom Hillhas been discussed as the eventual successorbut he is currently a restricted free agent andwill require a tender to retain his services.Hill is also an older NFL player after servinga mission while at BYU in comparison to histime in the league.

The Saints may or may not lose theiroffensive icon. But a team coached by SeanPayton can’t be discounted to still becompetitive if Brees retires.

Three Heartbreakers in Three Years

Devonte Freeman, RB: Had a career low in average yards per carry in 2019. Freemanmissed two more games in 2019, and has missed 16 games over the past two seasons. Heis set to count $9.5M against the cap in 2020. Cap savings: $3.5M

Keanu Neal, S: Neal has suffered major injuries in each of the past two seasons. Aftertearing an ACL in 2018 to open the season, Neal suffered an Achilles tendon during thethird game of the 2019 season. A one-year deal for league minimum would be suitablegiven the situation. Cap savings: $6.4

(-image source si.com)


Atlanta Falcons2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 5thDef. Rank: 20th


2020 must be the “make or break” seasonfor head coach Dan Quinn and team generalmanager Thomas Dimitroff. Because beingone of the worst teams in the NFL after thefirst eight games of 2019 was not enough toforce a change in leadership.

The Falcons were outscored 250-165 ingetting off to a 1-7 start in 2019. The teamgot off to a similar 1-4 start in 2018 beforerallying to a 4-4 record, just to lose fivestraight to take them out of contention. Longlosing streaks have marred the Falcons pasttwo seasons before late season wins haverallied them to 7-9 records.

The 2020 NFL offseason represents adifferent challenge for this Falcons regime.Typically the Falcons have done an

outstanding job of managing the salary capand having enough available to easily re-sign their own and add a piece eachoffseason. With limited space this offseason,the Falcons will have to move on fromselected veterans in order to be able tosecure those they wish to keep.

Tight end Austin Hooper is in his prime andhas developed into a reliable Pro Bowltarget at his position. Keeping him willrequire $10-$12M in salary cap space.

The group that was part of the 2016 SuperBowl season is changing. The icons such asMatt Ryan and Julio Jones remain, but thepieces around these two are going to changeover the next two offseasons. It’s “make orbreak” time around here.

Key Free Agents

Austin Hooper, TE -The two-time ProBowler has caught146 passes over thepast two seasonsand 10 touchdowns.The Falcons tightcap situation mayleave them with onlythe franchise tagoption if they try tokeep him.

Vic Beasley, DE - Theformer top 10 picklead the NFL insacks in 2016 buthas largely been adisappointmentsince. Recordedeight sacks in 2019.

De’Vondre Campbell,LB - A full-timestarter over the pastthree seasons,Campbell was goodin pass defense butstruggled early in theseason with the run.Intercepted twopasses and forcedthree fumbles.

Matt Bosher, P - Agroin injury limitedBosher to just threegames in 2019 afterappearing in 127games since 2011.

7-9 and Repeat

Jameis Winston, QB: The franchise tags have not been set, but the quarterback tag isexpected to be in the range of $27M given the current top contracts in the league. Theteam could choose to give him a smaller extension that would lessen the cap impact of a$27M franchise tag. Winston just turned 26 years old, and from a health perspective isnot a risk given his history.

(-image sportingnewscom)


Tampa Bay2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 3rdDef. Rank: 15th

Key Free Agents

Jameis Winston, QB -Wildly talented butalso turnover prone.Winston lead theleague in passingyards and turnoversin 2019. Looks to bea target for thefranchise tag.

Shaq Barrett, LB -Recorded a franchiserecord 19.5 sackslast season. Gradedout as one of the toppass rushers in theleague. Should chasethe $18M+ mark forelite pass rushers.

Ndamukong Suh, DL -Has played theprevious two seasonson one-yearcontracts. Recorded41 tackles and 2.5sacks, 33 years old.

Jason Pierre-Paul, DL/LB - Returned froma neck fracture torecord 6.5 sacks.

Carl Nassib, LB - NFLNext Gen Stats ratedNassib as the bestpass rusher againstdouble teams in2019. Recorded sixsacks. Will turn just27 years old beforetraining camp.


The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are in such astrange place. Consider that in 2019 therewere 63 quarterbacks who took at least 20snaps during the season, and 52 quarterbackswho played at least 100 snaps.

The Buccaneers have on their roster theNFL’s leading passing yardage leader inquarterback Jameis Winston who threw 33touchdown passes while starting all 16games. This is supposed to be a cornerstone,someone you build upon and depend on. Butthat’s not Jameis Winston.

Winston is the first man to join the “30-30”club by throwing 30 interceptions. His finalone ended the Buccaneers 16th game inovertime as it was returned for a touchdown.Winston also lost five fumbles in 2019 to

finish with a final turnover total of 35.Understand that Winston’s total turnovers aremore than any other team in the NFL.Winston turned the ball over more than theSaints and Patriots combined.

Teams in the NFL can’t consistently wingiving the ball away to their opponents. Butthat’s just part of Winston’s game. So whatdoes the team do about it? All signs point toa franchise tag this offseason and the hopethat he does what he’s yet to do: improve hisdecision making with the football.

The team could choose to draft or sign analternate at quarterback who won’t be astalented as a passer as Winston. Again, this isone of the stranger situations for head coachBruce Arians and the Buccaneers.

To Commit...and For How Long?

Cam Newton, QB: The decision will come down to what direction new coach Matt Rhulewants to go with his program. Newton missed 14 games in 2019 with a foot injury and hasdealt with shoulder issues in recent years. If the Panthers choose to release or trade Newton,they will be committing to a full rebuild. Cap savings: $19.1M

Greg Olsen, TE: The veteran tight end has been working in the broadcast booth in his sparetime so a full time move to that profession would be understandable. Olsen has fought thruinjuries to get on the field in recent years. Cap savings: $7.9M

(-image source usatoday.com)


Carolina2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 19thDef. Rank: 23rd


Key Free Agents

James Bradberry, CB -Will either receive anew contract or thefranchise tag fromthe Panthers. Careerhigh threeintereceptions in2019.

Tre Boston, S -Reliable veteransafety whointercepted threepasses in 2019.

Mario Addison, DL -Led the Pantherswith nine sacks butis set to be 33 yearsold by the start of theseason. A short-termdeal for qualitymoney would make alot of sense for acontending team.

Gerald McCoy, DT -The 10 year veteranrecorded five sacksplaying on a oneyear deal. He’lllikely be looking tohunt for a ring.

Bruce Irvin, DE -Veteran pass rusherrecorded 8.5 sacks in2019. Irvin willlikely be able to get adeal for more thanthe $4M he playedfor last season.

There was a time in the NFL where thecollege coach could not be successful. Thatwas the mentality for much of the leaguedespite the Jimmy Johnson accomplishmentsof the 1990’s.

Since then guys with a mix of pro andcollege experience have had tremendoussuccess. Pete Carrol has his title, as doesTom Coughlin. Hoping to have this type ofsuccess, the Carolina Panthers made themove and hired Baylor coach Matt Rhule.

Rhule is recognized for his ability to quicklychange a football program and turn it into awinner. He took over a poor Temple teamand turned them into a 10 game winner.More impressively, he took over a Baylorteam in shambles and in three years they

made it to a Sugar Bowl with an 11-2 record.This kind of turnaround is what the Pantherswould love to have happpen for them.

The Panthers 5-11 record in 2019 can beassociated to their instability at quarterback.Franchise quarterback Cam Newton madejust two starts after being plagued by a footinjury. New passing game coordinator JoeBrady, previously of LSU, may or may notbe working with Newton. Newton has justone-year remaining on his current contract.

With the retirement of All-Pro linebackerLuke Kuechly, both the offense and defensehave a giant hole in the middle. Rhule signeda seven-year deal, and will have the time toestablish new leaders on both offense anddefense.

A Leadership Change

NFCEAST2020


The Eagles took the division in 2019, as the rest of thedivision changed their head coaches.


Philadelphia EaglesVP Football: HowieRosemanCoach: Doug Pederson2019 Record: 9-7

Dallas CowboysGM: Jerry JonesCoach: Mike McCarthy2019 Record: 8-8

New York GiantsGM: Dave GettlemanCoach: Joe Judge2019 Record: 4-12

Washington RedskinsGM: TBDCoach: Ron Rivera2019 Record: 3-13

Nigel Bradham, OLB – The veteran linebacker is not playing at a level to justify a nearly$10M cap hit in 2020. The Eagles hold a club option for the remaining three years ofBradham’s deal from 2020 to 2022. While the dead money on the deal would be pricy,the savings for choosing to not pick up the options would also be signficant. Capsavings: $4.4M



Philadelphia2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 14thDef. Rank: 10th


The good news: the Philadelphia Eagles areNFC East champions again. The bad news:The Eagles are old and need to get younger.

Windows in the NFL are largelymomentary. Younger teams may get fiveyears to make runs at championships, whereas older teams tend to see the bottom fall outfaster. The Eagles featured the second oldestroster in the NFL heading into the 2019season and were strickened by injuriesnearly all season. What followed was aquick playoff exit at the hands of the SeattleSeahawks.

Quarterback Carson Wentz had a terrificseason given the core of receivers he had towork with. Wentz reached the 4,000 yardpassing mark without any receiver catching

more than 500 yards in passes. ReceiverAlshon Jeffery missed six games and theplayoffs and turns 30 before training camp.The 33 year old DeSean Jackson appeared injust three games in 2019. An overhaul of thereceiving core is coming in Philadelphia.

The age is showing up not just at receiver.Safety Malcolm Jenkins has been a stud overhis career and is now 32 years old. The ultra-dependable and productive tight end ZachErtz and brickwall defensive tackle FletcherCox are both 29.

The Eagles may have one good run left inthem. Their veterans are still good enough tomake the playoffs. But the transition to thenext group around Wentz will begin soon.

Key Free Agents

Ronald Darby, CB –Continues to misstime, missing fivegames in 2019. Darbyhas missed 12 gamesover the past twoseasons.

Jason Peters, LT – Willbe 38 by next trainingcamp, it will beentirely up to Peters ifhe intends to retire orplay another season.Has had a tremendouscareer, HOFdiscussion worthy.

Nelson Agholor, WR -The former firstrounder caught just 39passes in 2019. TheEagles will revamptheir receiving coreand move on fromAgholor.

Jalen Mills, CB -Missed time over thepast two seasons butdoes represent a solidsecond option atcornerback.

Timmy Jernigan, DL -Value is limited due toinjuries and theamount of snaps he’sbeen able to play inrecent years. Jerniganlast played more than26% of the snaps in2017 when he played48% of them.

The Aging Champions

Tyrone Crawford, DL – Played in just four games in 2019 due to a hip injury. Hasbeen a good player but at 30 years old, his contract offers cap flexibility to signyounger players. Cap savings: $8M

Cameron Flemming, OL – Has performed as the Cowboys swing tackle over thepast two seasons filling in for when Tyron Smith’s back or neck have caused himissues. The Cowboys hold a club option on Flemming. Cutting him only makessense if the team drafts or aquires another cheaper swing tackle. Cap savings:$4.4M



Dallas2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 1stDef. Rank: 9th


The Dallas Cowboys 2018 season came toan end in the divisonal round of the playoffsto the LA Rams that season. Head coachJason Garrett looked as if he had securedanother contract extension and a long-termfuture with the team. But after much internaldiscussion, Garrett was left to make 2019 amake or break season for his Cowboyscareer.

The Jason Garrett ended with an 8-8 record.Dallas was one of several teams in the NFLto feature a team that was ranked in the topten in offense and defense, the rest of themmade the playoffs while Dallas did not. TheCowboys would lose all but one of their one-score games they played in 2019.

Next up is former Green Bay Packers head

coach Mike McCarthy, who inherits a teamwith talent but in need of discipline andattention to detail. The Cowboys job givesMcCarthy an opportunity to improve on his125-77-2 career record while also showingthat he can get it done without Brett Favreor Aaron Rodgers playing quarterback.

The “cheap” years of Cowboys quarterbackDak Prescott are now over with. WhilePrescott put together a 40-24 record duringhis first four seasons, his contract totaledjust $2.7M. He’s now due for the bigpayday. Prescott threw for nearly 5,000yards in 2019 with 30 touchdowns and 11interceptions.

The core is in place for Dallas. It will be onMcCarthy to make it all work again.

Key Free Agents

Robert Quinn, DE –The Cowboys leadingsacker with 11.5 in2019. Reportedlywants to stay inDallas and has thesupport of the frontoffice.

Amari Cooper, WR –Recorded nearly1,200 yards and eighttouchdowns in 2019.

Dak Prescott, QB – Setto make a lot ofmoney. Finishedsecond in the NFL inpassing yards.

Byron Jones, CB – Aformer All-Pro,Jones is theCowboys bestmember of theirsecondary.

Randall Cobb, WR –Had a healthy seasonand recorded 828yards receiving.Dropped eight passeson the season, amongthe league leaders.

Maliek Collins, DT –Recorded four sacksand made 20 tackleson the interior of theCowboys defensiveline. Would be asolid addition for any4-3 team.

A Win-Now Situation

Alec Ogletree, LB – The style of defense the Giants intend to play will determineOgletree’s fate. He represents the third largest cap hit on the team with a total of$11.75M. Cap savings: $8.25M

Rhett Ellison, TE – Was injured for much of 2019 and could not get on the fieldfor the team’s final six games of the season due to a concussion. Recorded just18 catches for the season. Cap savings: $5M

(-image usatoday.com)


New York2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 23rdDef. Rank: 25th


The 2019 New York Giants season started atime of transition for a proud franchise thathas tasted Super Bowl victory twice over thepast 15 NFL seasons. But times are achanging.

It started during the 2019 NFL Draft withthe selection of quarterback Daniel Jones inthe opening round. Jones would end uptaking over for veteran quarterback EliManning before missing two games withinjury. Jones would throw 24 touchdownpasses against 12 interceptions during his 12starts, putting together a quality rookiecampaign.

Two-time Super Bowl winning quarterbackManning has retired from the team after abig game career. That move removes the

true last link to the championship years offor the Giants. Where the Giants go fromhere will be dictated by new coach JoeJudge.

The former Patriots special teams coach willbe the latest in a line of former Patriotscoaches to try and prove they can havesuccess away from Bill Belichick. Judgewill not call plays, so he will have to dependon new offensive coordinator Jason Garrettand defensive coordinator Patrick Graham toimplement the Joe Judge vision.

The Giants have won 12 games over the pastthree seasons. Clearly an overhaul is needed,but it remains to be seen if this newdirection will be any different then therecent ones.

Key Free Agents

Eli Manning, QB – Thetwo-time Super Bowlchampion is 39 yearsold and has retiredfrom the NFL. Formertop overall draft pickis a future Hall ofFamer.

Leonard Williams, DL –The former top 10pick had very littleimpact during his timewith the Giants afteran in-season trade.The Giants will havelost two draft picks fornothing if Williamsmoves on.

Markus Golden, OLB –Exploded for 10 sacksafter two quietseasons. Looked likethe player from 2016who recorded 12.5sacks in Arizona.

David Mayo, ILB –Started 13 games dueto injuries to thedefense. Offersdependability as abackup and spotstarter.

Deone Bucannon, ILB –The former firstrounder played as asituational linebackerduring his time inNew York. Can be arotational piece, has toplay a very specificrole due to his size.

A Team In Transition

Josh Norman, CB – Benched during the 2019 season, Norman played in a limitednumber of snaps over the final six games of the season. The 32 year oldcornerback would save significant cap space if he’s not on the 2020 roster. Capsavings: $12.5M

Jordan Reed, TE – Suffered his seventh documented concussion of his careerduring the 2019 preseason and was unable to play during the regular season.Reed’s career is likely over. Cap savings: $8.5M

(-image source huffingtonpost.com)


Washington2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 31stDef. Rank: 27th


Washington is back in a very familar place.It’s a place that they tend to visit every fewyears in an effort to put together a consistentwinner.

The Redskins are back at square one, thatplace where they fire a coach and hire a newone and say all the right things about achange in direction and leadership.Inevitably, the Dan Snyder leadership modelkicks in and dooms whatever hope the newcoach may have brought.

Next up is former Panthers head coach RonRivera, who follows the model the Redskinshave used when they hired Mike Shanahanand Joe Gibbs. Rivera has shown the abilityto get a team to the Super Bowl, but willhave to do that for a team that hasn’t

finished over .500 since 2015. The Redskinswere last in first place in 2018, beforequarterback Alex Smith’s injury wrecked theplan for former coach Jay Gruden.

The Redskins are not without talent as theyhave invested heavily in recent years on bothlines of scrimmage with premium draft picks.But the biggest factor for improvement willbe the development of quarterback DwayneHaskins.

Last year’s first round pick, Haskins earnedan opportunity to start and posted a record of2-5. But his play improved significantly inhis final two starts against Philadelphia andNew York. If Haskins can make steadyimprovement, this team will give Ron Riveraa fighting chance before the next turnover.

Key Free Agents

Brandon Scherff, G –The Pro Bowl guardhas been offered acontract extensionduring the season buthas yet to come toterms. Looking tobecome the highestpaid guard in theNFL.

Vernon Davis, TE –Missed the final 12games of the seasonwith a concussion.Has announced hisretirement from theNFL.

Adrian Peterson, RB –Rushed for nearly 900yards whilemaintaining a 4.3 avgyards per carry.Scored fivetouchdowns. Will be35 years old thisspring.

Ereck Flowers, G – 16game starter who hadmore success as aguard than as a tacklein New York.

Case Keenum, QB –Completed 67% of hispasses collecting 11touchdowns and fiveinterceptions. Still aquality option as abackup quarterbackdespite a 1-7 record in2019.

Turning It Over Again

NFCNORTH2020


The Packers are again on top, and the Vikingsare facing a ton of cap challenges in 2020


Green Bay PackersGM: Brian GutekunstCoach: Matt LaFleur2019 Record: 13-3

Minnesota VikingsGM: Rick SpielmanCoach: Mike Zimmer2019 Record: 10-6

Chicago BearsGM: Ryan PaceCoach: Matt Nagy2019 Record: 8-8

Detroit LionsGM: Bob QuinnCoach: Matt Patricia2019 Record: 3-12-1

Jimmy Graham, TE: A player who survived last season’s cap moves, Graham looksdone as a major factor in an NFL offense. Caught 38 passes for 447 yards and threetouchdowns in 2019. Cap savings: $8M

Lane Taylor, G: The former starter lost his job to a younger player and doesn’t lookto be in the plans as a starter moving forward. Taylor would have to present optionsas a backup at a multitude of positions in order to stay for his $6M cap hit. Capsavings: $4.6M



Green Bay2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 18thDef. Rank: 18th


The start of the Matt LaFleur era in GreenBay has to be considered a success. ThePackers won the NFC North and posted arecord of 13-3 before having their seasonend in the NFC Championship Game.

Things are changing in Green Bay. ThePackers uncharacteristically dipped into freeagency last offseason and landed passrushers Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smithwho combined for 25.5 sacks in 2019. Theywere key to balancing out a team that hasbecome increasingly less dependent on thebrilliance of quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Rodgers was good in 2019 again, tossing 26touchdown passes against just fourinterceptions. But the offense was just 15thin scoring and 18th in total offense. That

was partly due to the balance the offensedisplayed between Rodgers and running backAaron Jones. Jones rushed for 1,084 yardsand tied for the NFL lead in totaltouchdowns, scoring 19 on the season.

With receiver Davante Adams missing fourgames with a toe injury in 2019, the Packersare very aware of their need to add moredepth to their offense. Speed is going to bean emphasis this offseason both offensivelyand defensively. Watch for additons to bemade to both the receiving corp and thebackfield.

The Packers will move on from some keyveterans this offseason. But the opportunityto chase another championship under AaronRodgers has opened up again.

Key Free Agents

Blake Martinez, LB - Atackling machine thathas been among theleague leaders over thepast three seasons.Stuffs the stat sheet andplays with injury as hedealt with a brokenhand in 2019. Tends tomake a lot of downfieldtackles.

Bryan Bulaga, RT -Started all 16 gamesand dealt with injurybut was one of the bestright tackles in passblocking in the league.Did miss the divisonalround of the playoffs.Will be in line for aquality contract but isan injury concern as aplayer.

Geronimo Allison, WR -Caught a career high 34passes for 287 yardsand two touchdowns in2019. Allison playednearly 60% of theoffensive snaps but hadlimited production forthat much playing time.

Mason Crosby, K - Hadthe best season of hiscareer in terms ofkicking accuracy.Crosby hit 22 of his 24kicks, going over the90% mark for the firsttime in his career.Turns 36 years oldearly in the 2020season.

Back into Contention

Xavier Rhodes, CB: The Vikings will have to clear cap space and Rhodes’ play in 2019warrants the move. No longer playing at an elite, let alone an acceptable level. Wouldhave to take a major paycut to stay with the team. Cap savings: $10.5M

Shamar Stephen, DT: Returned to Minnesota after a year in Seattle and was just okay inthe Vikings defense. Given their cap situation, the team will have to jettison veteransthat aren’t playing up to their cap charge. Cap savings: $2.5M



Minnesota2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 16thDef. Rank: 14th

2019 Record: 10-6 Projected Cap Space: $3 million over

Sunrise, death and taxes. Those are thethings that are joked about that areabsolutes. In the NFL, you might as welladd in the salary cap. Eventually the cap willput you in position where you have tochange course and remake your team.

That is where the Minnesota Vikings areafter the past three years as being a factor inthe NFC. Appearances in the NFCChampionship game and in the divisionalround of the playoffs, the Vikings are nowin a situation where change is coming to theteam.

The Vikings are loaded on offense. But it istheir defense that is now going to have toadapt with the NFL salary cap ramificationsplaying the biggest role. For a team that

fiinished with a limited amount of healthycornerbacks to end their 2019 season, theVikings defense in the 2020 offseason willbe recognized for the changes they have tomake.

Cornerbacks Trae Waynes and MackensieAlexander are free agents. Former elitecorner Xavier Rhodes looked like a playerplaying on his last legs in 2019. Couple thatwith playmaking safety Anthony Harrislooking at a big contract in free agency, theVikings will have to rebuild a former teamstrength.

The Vikings will look to overhaul theirdefense and get younger. The offense willbe good again. But for coach Mike Zimmer,he’ll have to figure out the next group on D.

Key Free Agents

Anthony Harris, S -Tied for the leaguelead with sixinterceptions this pastseason. Will be one ofthe top rated freeagents on the marketand has performedwell at free and boxsafety.

Trae Waynes, CB -Was the better of theVikings two startingcornerbacks but wasno more than just solidin 2019. The formerfirst rounder turns 28years of age duringtraining camp.

Dan Bailey, K - Hadhis best season since2015 making 27 of 29kicks. AlthoughBailey did miss four ofhis 44 extra pointattempts in 2019.Bailey was previouslythe most accuratekicker in leaguehistory before 2017.

Mackensie Alexander,CB - A knee injurybrought Alexander’sseason to an end afterhe was having the bestseason of his career.Alexander hasdisplayed the ability tocover and be aphysical player andtackle near the line ofscrimmage.

A Defense That’s Changing

Prince Amukamara, CB: Set to count $10 million dollars against the cap in 2020,Amukamara’s production as far as taking the football away from the offense was lackingin 2019. Amukamara had three interceptions in 2018, but that’s it in his three seasons inChicago. Set to turn 31 this summer. Cap savings: $8.9M

Taylor Gabriel, WR: Injuries caused Gabriel to miss seven games in 2019, as his role onthe team was assumed by younger players. The soon-to-be 29 year old will offer savingson a tight Bears cap. Cap savings: $4.5M

(-image wgnplus.com)


Chicago2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 29thDef. Rank: 8th


For a Chicago Bears team that won the NFCNorth in 2018 with a record of 12-4, thebiggest question after this season is this:What the hell happpened?

The Bears defense gave up a couple moretouchdowns than the 2018 version. Themain issue was the offense that fell victim towhat happens in the NFL.

Opposing teams scheme during theoffseason on how to beat the divisionwinner. Head coach Matt Nagy’s offensewas unable to stay ahead of adjustmentsmade by opposing defenses. After scoring421 points in 2018, that total fell to 280 in2019.

Most of the blame has fallen on third-yearquarterback Mitch Trubisky, who followed

up his 24 touchdown and 12 interceptionseason by falling to 17 touchdowns and 10interceptions. Trubisky’s numbers fell acrossthe board from completion percentage toquarterback rating.

With the Bears offense being largely inept,the rest of the NFC North caught and pastthem. It will be up to Nagy to reinvent hisschemes. Otherwise there is a very realpossibility that the Bears will have to moveon to a different quarterback.

The Bears defense continues to be amongstthe best in the NFL. For the offense, anumber of younger receivers began toemerge in 2019, but it will ultimately be onTrubisky to find the magic that put him in thePro Bowl as a second year starter in 2018.

Key Free Agents

HaHa Clinton-Dix, S -Played on a one-yeardeal in 2019 and earneda larger contract aftermaking 78 tackles andpicking off two passes.A 16 game starter lastseason.

Nick Kwiatkoski, LB -Recorded 68 tacklesmaking eight starts in2019. An experiencedyounger player that theBears will bring back ifthey have spaceavailable.

Danny Trevathan, LB -Missed seven games in2019 but wasproductive when on thefield and during hisfour seasons inChicago. Turns 30years old in March.

Chase Daniel, QB -Perhaps the best optionin the league when itcomes to a backupquarterback whoprovides a “caddy like”influence for a youngerstarter with the abilityto play if needed.

Aaron Lynch, OLB - Hasseen his production falloff since he recorded12.5 sacks over his firsttwo seasons. No teamhas been able to buildon that initialproduction. Recordedtwo sacks in 2019 whilerecording just sixtackles.

A Big Stepback Offensively

Jesse James, TE: The four-year $22M dollar contract he signed has turned into a hugebust. James managed just 16 catches in 2019. The Lions can already get out of the dealand recover some cap dollars. Cap savings: $3M

Ricky Wagner, RT: The well-compensated veteran right tackle does not perform at alevel to justify bringing him back as a nearly $12M tackle. Cap savings: $6.1M

(-image source cdnewsday.com)


Detroit2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 17thDef. Rank: 31st

2019 Record: 3-12-1 Projected Cap Space: $42 million

Losing your franchise quarterback duringthe season is typically a recipe for disaster.For the 2019 Lions without quarterbackMatthew Stafford, that’s exactly how itplayed out.

Stafford, who’s taken the team to theplayoffs three times during his Lions career,was only able to make eight starts and ledthe Lions to a 3-4-1 record over that time.What followed was an 0-8 record betweentwo backup starters.

The Matt Patricia era has looked a lot likeformer Patriots assistants who take over jobsin the NFL. Patricia is just 9-22-1 over histwo years as the head coach. A coach knownfor defense, Patricia’s team finished with aleague ranking of 31st in the NFL in 2019.

The Lions have attempted to change theiroffense for a generation. Under a defensive-minded coach, the Lions have put resourcesinto the offensive line and running game inrecent years, but they haven’t been a capablerunning team since the years of BarrySanders.

What this has resulted in is asking Stafford tomake all of the throws all of the time. Until2019 Stafford has been able to stay on thefield and give it his best try. But recentinjuries calls that into question movingforward.

With the NFC North having three differentdivision winners over the past three seasons,it’s an uphill climb for Patricia. He has onemore year to get it done.

Key Free Agents

A’Shawn Robinson, DT- Inconsistency hasbeen the hallmark ofthe former secondround pick’s career. Achange of scenery andscheme may behelpful.

Danny Amendola, WR -The 34 year oldreceiver caught 62passes in 2019 for 678yards. The offensesuits his abilities.Amendola is lookingto re-sign in Detroit.

Graham Glasgow, G -Has started 58 of his62 career gamesduring his fourseasons in Detroit.Should be able to landa quality contract fromthe Lions or anotherteam.

Jeff Driskel, QB -Completed 59% of hispasses for fourtouchdowns and fourinterceptions in histhree starts in 2019.Driskel did go 0-3 as astarting quarterback.

Logan Thomas, TE -2019 represents hisbest season aftermoving fromquarterback. Recorded16 catches for 173yards and atouchdown.

A Team In Search of a Recipe

NFCWEST2020


The NFC West featured another NFC Champion, andanother Super Bowl loss.


San Francisco 49ersGM: John LynchCoach: Kyle Shanahan2019 Record: 13-3

Seattle SeahawksGM: John SchneiderCoach: Pete Carroll2019 Record: 11-5

Los Angeles RamsGM: Les SneadCoach: Sean McVay2019 Record: 9-7

Arizona CardinalsGM: Steve KeimCoach: Kliff Kingsbury2019 Record: 5-11

Marquise Goodwin, WR: Set to count nearly $5M against the cap in 2020 and has notbeen healthy for a full season since 2017. Played in just nine games in 2019 and caughtjust 12 passes due to injury. Cap savings: $3.6M

Joe Staley, LT: The veteran left tackle has two years remaining on his deal with largerbase salaries. If Staley plans to continue to play, his contract could provide some capsavings if more dollars are needed to re-sign their own young veterans.

(-image source 49ers.com)


San Francisco2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 4thDef. Rank: 2nd


As Super Bowl 54 reached the final sevenminutes on the clock, the San Francisco49ers held a 20-10 lead on a Kansas CityChiefs team that looked lost offensively.The knockout blow looked ready to bedelivered. The 49ers win probability, ifyou’re into such things, sat near 95%.

21 unanswered points later, the Chiefs wereSuper Bowl champions by a score of 31-20and the 49ers were left to head back to theoffseason drawing board. Sometimes ithapppens just that fast.

The 49ers have arrived in the NFC. Theteam has established themselves as a factormoving forward with a fearsome defenseand a balanced physical offense. The 49erscould choose to let their team continue to

mature and watch the improvement. But thatclock has been accelerated.

The 49ers have needs on the interioroffensive line and would like to add someexplosive elements to their offense. Whilereceiver Deebo Samuel is promising andtight end George Kittle is as good as it gets,the need to replace or re-sign free agentreceiver Emmnauel Sanders will be key.

The 49ers will have to fill their needs withoutthe help of a full compliment of draft picks.While the 49ers have their own first roundpick, they are lacking second, third andfourth round picks due to trades.

The 49ers nearly had it. 2020 is aboutfinishing the deal.

Key Free Agents

Arik Armstead, DL -Had a huge 2019,recording 10 sacksand 54 total tackles.Should command ahuge contract.

Jimmie Ward, FS -Versatile defenderwho had a good yearafter signing a one-year deal in 2019.Made 65 tackles.

Emmanuel Sanders,WR - Came to the49ers in a midseasontrade with Denver.Recorded 36 catchesfor 502 yards andthree touchdownsduring his 10 gamesin San Francisco.

Matt Breida (RFA), RB- Was not healthy in2019 and didn’t findthe success that hedid in 2018. Will haveto sign a “show me”deal this offseason ifhe is not tendered.

Sheldon Day, DT -Rotational tackle whoplayed in every gamein 2019. Wouldprovide quality depthfor a team looking fora young veteran whowill not be expensiveto land.

Nearly Champions

Ed Dickson, TE: Appeared in 10 games and made 12 catches for 143 yards before a pairof IR trips ended his season. Expected to be pushed off the roster by three younger andless expensive options. Cap savings: $3M

(-image rantsports.com)


Seattle2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 8thDef. Rank: 26th


The Seattle Seahawks are a factor in theNFC once again despite the 49ers and Ramseach reaching the Super Bowl over the pasttwo seasons. Much of that can be attributedto the elite play of quarterback RussellWilson.

If Lamar Jackson hadn’t turned the NFL in2019 into his personal playground, RussellWilson would probably be the league’sMVP. Wilson led the Seahawks to theplayoffs again, despite being pressured inthe pocket on nearly 40% of his passattempts. The Seahawks don’t protectWilson well, but they continue to winbecause of Wilson.

While the Seahawks ran out of availablerunning backs in 2019, the focus will be

getting defensive end Jadeveon Clowneyback on the roster. But establishing his valuewill be a challenge. Clowney has never had adouble-digit sack season during his NFLcareer. Clowney recorded just three sacks in2019. But he’s also proven to be a terror onthe field who harrasses the offense and cantake over the game with his ability topressure opposing teams.

The Seahawks do have money to spend andsome areas they’d like to improve. Righttackle is a spot where the team could chooseto sign one of their own or upgrade in freeagency. The team would also like to addanother player or two to improve a defensethat is no longer among the best in theleague.

Key Free Agents

Jadeveon Clowney, DE- Expected to chasethe $18-$20M markper season as one ofthe highest paiddefensive players inthe league.

Jarran Reed, DT -Followed up atremendous 2018season in which herecorded 50 tacklesand 10.5 sacks with asix-game suspensionand mediocre play in2019.

Germain Ifedi, RT -Appeared in all 16games and providesspot duty whenneeded at both tacklepositions. Should notbe a regular starterbut is better thanmost lower tieroptions in freeagency.

Quinton Jefferson, DE -The versatiledefensive linemanplayed everywherefor the Seahawks.Recorded 26 tacklesand 3.5 sacks.Suffered a brokenfoot to end hisseason but will behealthy by trainingcamp.

Ready to Spend

Eric Weddle, FS: The Rams have younger and cheaper options at the position whichmakes the 35 year old Weddle expendable. Weddle has stated he is still looking to playin 2020 but expects to be a starter. Cap savings: $4.2M

Clay Matthews, OLB: While Matthews had eight sacks in 2019, he faded at the end ofthe season and recorded just one sack over the final two months of the season. Could bethe odd man out as the team looks to retain their younger linebacker talent. Cap savings:$3.7M



Los Angeles2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 7thDef. Rank: 13th


In the game of no-limit Texas hold’em, itwould be called going “all-in”. It would belike playing your last dollar in the lottery, orapproaching the prettiest girl in the bar. TheLA Rams took a shot at getting back to theSuper Bowl in 2019 and winning it. It didn’twork out.

The Rams became one of the few teams toappear in the Super Bowl and miss theplayoffs the following season. But it wasn’tbecause of a lack of trying. The Rams madethe biggest in-season trade in 2019 movingtwo first round picks and a fourth round pickfor Jaguars cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Whilethe defense was respectable, the offensivechanges that occurred last offseason cameback to bite the Rams.

In 2018 the Rams started the same fiveplayers on their offensive line and they wereoutstanding. But losing guard Rodger Saffoldand center John Sullivan before 2019 createda level of inconsistency that the Ramsoffense couldn’t overcome. After averaging32.9 points per game in 2018, they fell to24.6 in 2019.

The Rams are looking to create the rosterconsistency that created a playoff team in2017 and 2018. That will be a challenge astheir leading tackler in Cory Littleton andpass rusher Dante Fowler are set to becomefree agents. Their anchor at left tackle,Andrew Whitworth, is also set to be free.

The Rams shot their shot in 2019. They’lllook to do it again in 2020.

Key Free Agents

Dante Fowler, DE - Theformer third overallpick put it all togetherin 2019 recording 56tackles and 11.5sacks. Looking for abig contract.

Andrew Whitworth, LT -If the 38 year olddecides to play he isreportedly onlyinterested in returningto the Rams.

Michael Brockers, DT -Should command aquality contract infree agency. Solidrun player who canget after thequarterback at times.Recorded threesacks in 2019.

Cory Littleton, LB - Hadan outstanding 2019season and will beone of the top freeagents in all of theNFL. Tremendoustackler. Recorded134 tackles lastseason.

Greg Zuerline, K -Accuracy fell off in2019, posting hisworst season since2015. Made 72.7% ofhis field goalatttempts.

Went For It...And Now What?

Robert Alford, CB – Alford’s base salary for 2020 becomes fully guaranteed inMarch. Missing all of last season with a broken leg, Alford will have to provehe’s healthy enough for the team to honor the salary guarantee. Cap savings:$4.5M

Andy Lee, P – Lee was 2nd in the NFL in average per kick but 17th in net yards.At 38 years old, it will entirely be up to Lee if he wants to punt in the NFL in2020. The team could go younger and cheaper at the position. Cap savings: $2M

(-image source centriotimescom)


Arizona2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 21stDef. Rank: 32nd

2019 Record: 5-10-1 Projected Cap Space: $68 million

A year after going 3-13 and earning the #1overall pick in the NFL Draft, the Cardinalsdecided to make a rather big coursecorrection for 2019. The results are lookingpretty interesting.

The Cardinals fired head coach Steve Wilksafter the 2018 season and decided to moveon from first round quarterback Josh Rosen.In came former Texas Tech football coachKliff Kingsbury and quarterback KylerMurray who was drafted first overall.

The 2019 Cardinals posted a 5-10-1 record,and showed that they are developing one ofthe more fun offenses in the NFL. Murrayhad a very good rookie season passing for3,722 yards and 20 touchdowns against just12 interceptions. Murray’s ability to

scramble added another 544 yards to hisoffensive output as he scored fourtouchdowns as a runner.

While the passing offense was still belowleague averages, Murray making a jump inyear two has the team very excited aboutwhat they can become.

Any moves to help faciliate that jump byMurray will be the offseason goal. TheCardinals have needs on the offensive lineand would love to add another playmaker tothe offense. Running back Kenyan Drakewas dynamic as a runner and receiver but heintends to test free agency.

The Cardinals have undergone a lot ofchange and they’re now more interesting.

Key Free Agents

DJ Humphries, G –Started 16 games in2019 and graded outwell despitecommitting the 2ndmost amount ofpenalties in the NFL.

Kenyan Drake, RB –Rushed for a careerhigh 817 yards inMiami and in Arizonaafter a midseasontrade. Showed hisimpressive skills out ofthe backfield catching50 passes in 2019.Determined to testfree agency.

Jordan Mills, RT –Continues to be asolid swing tackleproviding depth andthe ability to spot start.

Pharoh Cooper, WR –Caught 25 passes in2019 and offers returnability. Turns 25 yearsold in March.

Zach Kerr, DT – Was aquality physicalpresence inside for theCardinals defense.

Jonathan Bullard, DE –Recorded 1.5 sacks in2019 but was primarilyin charge of playingthe run up front. Theformer third round pickis just 26 years old.

Developing an Explosive Offense

TOP FREE AGENTS

Franchise TagProjections:

QB - $26.8M

DE - $19.3M

LB - $16.2M

CB - $16.4M

WR - $18.4M

RB - $12.4M

S - $12.7M

TE - $11M

2020 NFL Offseason

Who Will Make it to Free Agency...The 2020 NFL Offseason will be marked by the continued growth in the

NFL salary cap. For the 2017 season, the salary cap was $168 milliondollars. The current estimate for the 2020 season is around $199 millon

dollars. That’s $992 million more dollars available for teams to spend in

just four years worth of time.

The result of this continued cap explosion is that it’s become increasingly

difficult for elite players to reach the free agent market. Many of them

end up with a new contract extension or a franchise tag and an eventualbig contract. Typically a player who gets to free agency that you have

heard of is dealing with an injury. What the end result has been of late is

that good players make it to free agency and get paid great player money.

2020 NFL Offseason

Free Agents

Tom Brady - QB - New England Patriots

Dak Prescott - QB - Dallas Cowboys

Jadeveon Clowney - DE - Seattle Seahawks

Ryan Tannehill - QB - Tennessee Titans

Shaq Barrett - DE - Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Amari Cooper - WR - Dallas Cowboys

Yannick Ngakoue - DE - Jacksonville Jaguars

Arik Armstead - DE - San Francisco 49ers

Chris Jones - DE - Kansas City Chiefs

Brandon Scherff - G - Washington Redskins

AJ Green - WR - Cincinnati Bengals

Austin Hooper - TE - Atlanta Falcons

AFCSOUTH2020


The AFC South features teams who have recentlymade trips to the AFC Championship game.


Houston TexansGM: Bill O’BrienCoach: Bill O’Brien2019 Record: 10-6

Tennessee TitansGM: Jon RobinsonCoach: Mike Vrabel2019 Record: 9-7

Indianapolis ColtsGM: Chris BallardCoach: Frank Reich2019 Record: 7-9

Jacksonville JaguarsGM: David CaldwellCoach: Doug Marrone2019 Record: 6-10

Laremy Tunsil, LT: Entering into his fifth-year option in 2020, Tunsil is looking for acontract extension. Considering what the Texans gave up in trade to secure his services,a deal for Tunsil will be coming over the next 12 months as long as the left tackle stayshealthy.

Deshaun Watson, QB: After completing his third season in the NFL, Watson is noweligible for a contract extension. With the Texans cap space available this offseason,securing Watson with a new deal will be more affordable then waiting until nextoffseason.

(-image source espn.com)


Houston2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 13thDef. Rank: 28th


The Houston Texans continue to be the mosttalented team in the AFC South. The teamfeatures a dynamic franchise quarterbackand playmakers at nearly every level of theoffense and the defense. With that pointedout, since 2014 they are the only AFC Southteam to not reach the AFC Title Game.

The Texans reached the divisional round ofthe playoffs and became the first road teamto score 31 points and lose the game.Blowing a 24 point lead was just the start, asthe Texans would go on to lose to theeventual Super Bowl champion Kansas CityChiefs by 20 points.

Houston has had the benefit of theaffordable DeShaun Watson at quarterbackover the last three season. Watson is now

eligible for a contract extension thisoffseason. Given that the Texans need to re-sign key members of their team and securecontract extensions, the NFL salary cap is setto squeeze this team moving forward.

The Texans consolidated power thisoffseason by naming head coach BillO’Brien as the team GM. The team is lackingtheir a first round pick after their trade forleft tackle Laremy Tunsil from Miami.

Houston is in need a secondary help andwould love to add more pass rushers to theirdefense in 2020. The team also must figureout who will be their starting running back in2020.

The Texans are talented but unaccomplished.

Key Free Agents

Bradley Roby, CB -Established himself in2019 as a leadcornerback for ateam. The former firstround pick willcommand one of thelargest cornerbackcontracts in themarket thisoffseason.

Lamar Miller, RB - Apreseason kneeinjury ended hisseason. Will have toprove his healthbefore securinganother multi-yeardeal.

Carlos Hyde, RB -Rushed for over1,000 yards in 2019but will turn 30 yearsold in September.

Johnathan Joseph, CB- Reliable veterancornerback whowants to play again in2020. Turns 36 yearsold in April.

DJ Reader, DT -Recognized as one ofthe better interiordefensive lineman inthe NFL in 2019.Legitimate run stufferwho will be 26 yearsold this summer.

An Expensive Offseason

Delanie Walker, TE: The soon-to-be 36 year old tight end missed nine games and theplayoffs in 2019 with an ankle injury. Recorded just 21 catches. Cap savings $6.4M

Malcolm Butler, CB: Missed seven game in 2019 and has been inconsistent during histime in Nashville. Butler is set to count more than $13M dollars against the cap in 2020,a season in which he turns 30 years old. Butler is a prime candidate for a negotiatedsalary cut. Cap savings: $7.3M

(-image source inquistr.com)


Tennessee2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 13thDef. Rank: 28th


The 2019 Tennessee Titans went on one ofthe most impressive runs of the NFL season.The Titans got off to a 2-4 start beforemoving to quarterback Ryan Tannehill tosave the season. Tannehill delivered a 7-3record and helped the team find their wayinto the AFC Championship game.

While Tannehill was the hottest quarterbackover the final weeks of the season, theoffense was paced by NFL leading rusherDerrick Henry. The former second roundpick ran for over 1,500 yards and helpedestablish the physical play for the Titans.

Henry is now set to enter free agency thisoffseason. The former Heisman Trophywinner is looking to land a massive runningback contract. The franchise tag is an option

but the succesful play of Tannehillcomplicates the matter.

While Henry had pedigree Tannehill did not.The former top 10 pick had enjoyed relativesuccess in the league but had not led awinning team in the playoffs. Tannehillplayed a key role in the playoffs along withHenry in beating the Patriots and Ravens onthe road. Establishing his value movingforward presents a tricky situation afterplaying on a one-year deal for just twomillion dollars.

The Titans have cap space and momentumgoing this offseason. They have a shot atestablishing a playoff contender. What theychoose to do with their new signal caller andfranchise runner will define this offseason.

Key Free Agents

Derrick Henry, RB -One of the stars ofthe season andpostseason in 2019.Henry rushed for over1,500 yards, leadingthe NFL in thecategory.

Ryan Tannehill, QB -Played the bestfootball of his careerand was the hottestquarterback in theleague over the final13 games of theseason going 9-4.

Jack Conklin, RT - Hasbeen one of thebetter right tackles inthe NFL despite justan okay 2019. Gaveup four sacks thispast season.

Kamalei Correa, LB -Sacked thequarterback a careerhigh five times in2019.

Marcus Mariota, QB -Will look to start foranother team in2020. 29-32 careerrecord as a starter.

Logan Ryan, CB -Allowed 80 catcheson 114 targets.Physical rundefender.

Building on a Run

Ryan Kelly, C: The 2019 Pro Bowler is a prime candidate for a contract extension thisoffseason. Kelly is set to play 2020 on his fifth year option which will cost the Colts$10.3M. The Colts could lower this figure with their immense amount of cap space bygiving Kelly a contract extension.

TY Hilton, WR: Set to be 31 years old and did miss six games in 2020. The Colts couldchoose to offer Hilton a small extension or move on from the player entirely. But withtheir cap space it’s entirely up to them. They can more than afford Hilton’s cap charge of$14.5M for 2020.

(-image source harriers.com)


Indianapolis2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 25thDef. Rank: 16th


On the eve of the 2019 NFL season, Coltsfranchise quarterback Andrew Luckannounced his retirement from the league. Aculmination of injuries left Luck in pain andunable to compete at the level he felt wasneeded to be successful for the franchise.

After a 10-6 season in 2018 the Colts wereleft to scramble to adjust to a new reality oflacking a difference maker at quarterback.

Quarterback Jacoby Brissett was servicablein his 15 starts going 7-8 while throwing 18touchdowns and six interceptions. But for afranchise defined by Johnny Unitas, PeytonManning and Luck, servicable is notenough.

No one has more cap space than the Colts

this offseason. And they’ll need it as theychange the direction of the franchise and lookto set themselves up for the future. Finding anew franchise quarterback is an obvious goal.

The Colts hold the 13th pick in the upcomingNFL Draft. They are just outside of the rangeof the elite prospects. They are left to decidewhether to strengthen the team aroundBrissett or attempt to land an elitequarterback prospect and move forward fromthere.

The Colts are a good football team who cancompete as presently constructed. But theColts are about chasing championships. Howthey choose to go about that will befascinating this offseason.

Key Free Agents

Anthony Castonzo, LT -Played very well in2019 allowing justthree sacks anddrawing twopenalities. Turns 32during training campthis year.

Eric Ebron, TE - Aseason after catching70 passing andbecoming a ProBowler for the firsttime, Ebron caughtjust 31 passes andmissed five gamesdue to an ankleinjury.

Jabaal Sheard, OLB -Veteran racked up4.5 sacks over 13games this pastseason. Has beensolid but notspectacular over thepast four seasons.Considered a “pro’spro” by the Colts frontoffice.

Devin Funchess, WR -A broken collarbonevirtually wiped out allof Funchess’ season.Caught three passesin just one game in2019. Has been aviable second or thirdoption previously inhis career.

The Unexpected Overhaul

Marqise Lee, WR: The Jaguars gave Lee a $34M dollar contract two years ago andthat’s when his injuries began. Lee has only been available for six games over the pasttwo seasons. Cap savings: $5.25M

Calais Campbell, DT: Campbell is still a quality player despite his numbers taking a dipin 2019. The Jaguars cap situation will be the reason he is released if they need to makemore money available. Cap savings $15M

Marcell Dareus, DT: Simply not enough production to justify keeping him. Capsavings: $20M

(-image source cbsbaltimore.com)


Jacksonville2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 20thDef. Rank: 24th


The 2017 season featured the JacksonvilleJaguars in the AFC Championship game.After a stepback season in 2018, the Jaguarswent for it in 2019. Unfortuately the atteptfailed to produce a winner.

The Jaguars added former Super Bowl MVPNick Foles last offseason in an effort toreach the upper-echelon of the AFCcontenders once again. But an injury toFoles caused him to miss 10 weeks of theNFL season. Foles would end up losing allfour of his starts in 2019.

The Jaguars are now 11-21 over the past twoseasons. The franchise is now left to figureout what to do with what was one of themost talented young rosters in the NFL twoyears ago. A midseason trade of cornerback

Jalen Ramsey added first round picks in both2020 and 2021. Giving the Jaguars draftcapital to add new talent, but their holes arenumerous.

The Jaguars will have to figure out who tostart at quarterback as rookie GardnerMinshew was intriguing afer completingnearly 70% of his passes for 21 touchdownsand six interceptions.

The offense requires more playmakers atreceiver after the flameouts of players suchas Marqise Lee. Adding some depth at tightend and linebacker would also be helpful.

The Jaguars went for it with the best playersavailable on the market in recent years. It’snow time to change direction.

Key Free Agents

Yannick Ngakoue, DE -Sacked thequarterback eighttimes last season.His 37.5 sacks duringhis four seasonsmakes him a goodcompliment to DEJosh Allen. Will likelycommand a contractin the $14-$15 milliondollar per year range.

Keelan Cole (RFA),WR - Caught 24passes for 361 yardsand threetouchdowns in 2019.A reliable player whois always availableand provides a solidoption in the passinggame.

Akeem Spence, DT -28 year old veteranprovides depth onrunning downs.Recorded 14 tacklesin 2019. Hasappeared in 103games during hisNFL career.

Najee Goode, LB - Theeight-year veteran isa stop-gap playerwho can provide ateam withexperienced depth.Missed six games in2019.

Looking to Bounce Back

AFCEAST2020


The Patriots continued their reign but a massivechange could be coming.


New England PatriotsCoach: Bill Belichick2019 Record: 12-4

Buffalo BillsGM: Brandon BeaneCoach: Sean McDermott2019 Record: 10-6

New York JetsGM: Joe DouglasCoach: Adam Gase2019 Record: 7-9

Miami DolphinsGM: Chris GrierCoach: Brian Flores2019 Record: 7-9

Mohammed Sanu, WR: The Patriots don’t typically make this kind of mistake. The teamgave up a second round pick for Sanu during the season. Sanu’s final seven gamesresulted in just 15 catches. The Patriots could choose to use the cap space elsewhere orhope he improves in the offense with an offseason of study. Cap savings: $6.5M

Stephen Gostkowski, K: Had not missed any time in the league since 2010. A left hipinjury limited Gostkowski to just four games in 2019. The 36 year old will have to provehe’s healthy to have a spot in 2020. Cap savings: $3.6M

(-image source rollingstone.com)


New England2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 15thDef. Rank: 1st


After a two decade run in the NFL, can weall finally ask the question that has beenassumed but never realized...is it over?

The New England Patriots run wouldeventually end. That was always a certainty.But after a nine-year Super Bowl drought,the Patriots have won titles in three of thepast six seasons.

This most recent run left us to wonder justwhen this era of greatness would everconclude? Maybe it’s this offseason, maybeit’s not. But the chances seem better thanzero.

Quarterback Tom Brady is a free agent andis reportedly looking for a contract that putshim in line with the other top paid

quarterbacks in the league. For many yearsfans and players alike would joke that Bradydidn’t need the money because of the successof his wife. At this point in his career, itappears Tom Brady is looking to dispel thisnotion.

Brady spent the season reportedly asking theteam to add weapons for what he felt was anoffense that lacked explosion. He wascertainly justified as the team exited theplayoffs in the opening round.

Perhaps Tom Brady is looking for a team thatwill give him offensive ammunition.

Or maybe this is all just about drama for thedynasty to keep us all on our toes.

Key Free Agents

Tom Brady, QB - Thisoffseason representsthe first time Bradyhas ever been anunrestricted freeagent. Bradyreportedly looking fora +30M dollar deal onaverage.

Joe Thuney, G - One ofthe best guards infootball, he is alwaysavailable and doesnot come off the field.Allowed just one sackwhile playing 99% ofthe plays in 2019.

Jamie Collins, OLB -Finished the seasonwith seven sacks andthree interceptionswhile also recording81 tackles.

Kyle Van Noy, LB -Recorded 6.5 sacksand forced threefumbles in a careerbest season.

Danny Shelton, DT -Had his best seasonas a pro playerrecording 62 tacklesand three sacks.

Ted Karras, C - Filled inat center and playedover 1,000 snaps forthe team.

Dynasty Over?

TJ Yeldon, RB: While only a near $2M cap hit in 2020, Yeldon spent 2019 as the thirdrunning back on the roster. If the Bills add a runner or choose to draft one, Yeldon couldbecome expendable. Cap savings: $1.6M

Lee Smith, TE: Caught just four passes in the Bills offense as the veteran tight end andrun blocker in the offense. Already 32 years old, a cheaper option would push Smith offof the roster. Cap savings: $2.2M



Buffalo2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 24thDef. Rank: 3rd


The Buffalo Bills were a playoff team againfor the second time in three seasons. But thistime it was completely different.

The Bills decision in 2018 to change courseand attempt to raise the ceiling of their teamhas seemingly worked. Led by quartebackTyrod Taylor in 2017, that Bills team maxedout at 9-7.

The 2019 version of the Bills featured theintriguing Josh Allen at quarterback whoposted a 10-6 record while throwing 20touchdowns against nine interceptions.Allen’s completion percentage jumped from52% to 58% in year two. If Allen takesanother step forward as a passer, it will takethe Bills to another level.

The Bills are loaded this offseasn and canmove in any direction they see fit. The teamholds $90M dollars in cap space and ninedraft picks to add to this playoff roster. Theirfree agents can be easily retained with theoffseason ammunition they hold.

The Bills want to get bigger and faster at thereceiver position. Leading pass catchers JohnBrown and Cole Beasley are 5’11 and 5’8respectively. Getting Josh Allen more sizeand speed to throw to can help improve theoverall offensive ranking.

The Bills have a shot at completing a goalthat only one team has done in the better partof 20 years, taking the divison away from thePatriots. The Bills are built to do it. Theadditions they make can make it happen.

Key Free Agents

Shaq Lawsone, DE -Found a comfortzone in the Billsdefense as aneffective run stopperand contributed 6.5sacks as well.Looking for a qualitymid-level contract.

Jordan Phillips, DT - ARun stuffer who wasa terror againstquarterbacks as aninside pass rusher.Recorded a careerhigh 9.5 sacks in2019.

Frank Gore, RB -Continues to beproductive in abackup role in theNFL. Recordednearly 600 yards butaveraged just 3.6yards per carry.

Kevin Johnson, CB -While he has aconcussion history,Johnson played in all16 games in 2019.

Isaiah McKenzie, WR -Made 27 catches for254 yards and scoreda touchdown. Offersreturn ability ifneeded as a punt andkickoff returner.

Help Wanted

Trumaine Johnson, CB: Has been a medicore player since signing his massive deal twooffseasons ago. The Jets are now in position given the guaranteed money left on the dealto move on and create cap space. The Jets will still create $12M dollars in dead capspace. Cap savings: $3M

Brian Winters, G: Finished the season on injured reserve after missing seven games. TheJets are looking to be aggressive in improving their guard play this offseason. Capsavings: $7.3M

(-image source espn.com)


New York2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 32ndDef. Rank: 7th


The 2019 New York Jets started the seasonwith hopes for an improved team and proofthat the program was headed in the rightdirection.

The 0-3 start to the season seemedcompounded by quarterback Sam Darnoldcontracting mononucleosis. Later inOctober, Darnold would be caught on micsaying he was, “seeing ghosts” against thePatriots unending pass rush. The season wasnot going well.

The back end of their season featured somevery winnable football games. Given howthey played over the first eight games, noone expected much. But the Jets finished theseason with a 6-2 record down the

stretch. A 7-9 record overall gives thecoaching staff a shot to show that theirprogram does have a chance to win in theNFL.

The Jets will hopefully stay healthy ondefense in 2020. One of their big additions in2019, linebacker CJ Mosley, was only on thefield for two games. Despite their injuries,the Jets had a top 10 defensive ranking.

Improving the Jets is not a mystery. The teamneeds to vastly improve their offensive lineas quickly as possible. It can be done, as therival Bills changed four spots on their linelast offseason.

The Jets may be headed in the right directionfinally. Maybe, hopefully.

Key Free Agents

Robby Anderson, WR -Reportedly lookingfor a contractaveraging between$13M-$15M perseason. Caught 52passes for 779 yardsand five touchdownsin 2019. A qualitynumber two optionwith the ability tomake the big playsdownfield.

Jordan Jenkins, OLB -Has produced aspass rusher over thepast two seasons forthe Jets. Recordedeight sacks in 2019after recording sevensacks in 2018.

Brian Poole, CB - Hasbeen solid in the NFLwhen playing a veryspecific role as anickel cornerback inthe slot. Interceptedone pass and made58 tackles in 2019.

James Burgess, LB -Was a factor playingon the defense fromNovember until theend of the season.Has been with sixother teams beforehaving some successin the league.

A Second Half of Hope

Reshad Jones, SS: The Dolphins have been aggressive in ending some of their long-termcontracts that are of no use to them during this rebuild. Jones’ deal would not haveoffered any cap savings before the 2020 offseason. It does now. Cap savings: $5.4M

Albert Wilson, WR: Wilson caught the third most amount of passes on the Dolphinsteam in 2019. 2020 represents the final year of his deal. The team could choose to givehim a contract extension or trade him in a cap savings move to a team looking for aquality veteran. Cap savings: $9.5M

(-image mypalmbeachpost.com)


Miami2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 27thDef. Rank: 30th


The 2019 Miami Dolphins were like thefootball version of the 1989 baseball movieMajor League.

This Dolphins team wasn’t designed to getthe team to move, but they were designed tolose games while shedding bad contracts.For the players that didn’t want to be there,trades were made to send quality players outof town in exchange for future draft picks.“Tanking” was assigned to their statusaround the league.

But a very movie-like thing happened on theway to the bottom of the NFL...the Dolphinsgot better. One could make the argumentthat head coach Brian Flores deserved a votefor NFL Coach of the year.

After starting the season 0-7, the Dolphinsstarted winning football games that theywere never supposed to. The Dolphinsfinished the season going 5-4 over their lastnine games. And like any Hollywoodproduction, the upstart Dolphins beat themighty New England Patriots on the finalweekend of the season. Of course in the finalminutes of the game. Roll credits!

The Dolphins are still a few years away. Theteam is looking to draft their quarterback ofthe future in the 2020 draft. The team isholding a ridiculous amount of picks. Miamihas their own first rounder, along with theSteelers and Texans first rounders. They alsohold the Saints second round pick.

“We’re contenders now.” (well not yet)

Key Free Agents

Evan Boehm, G -Played 55% of thesnaps in 2019 at bothguard and center.Provides versatilityand ability to start.

Aqib Talib, CB -Essentially wastraded from LA toMiami so theDolphins could aquirea fifth round draftchoice for eatingTalib’s salary. Turns34 years old for the2020 season.

J’Marcus Webb, RT - Alate in camp signingwho ended upplaying 542 snaps in2019.

Vince Biegel, LB (RFA)- Made 10 starts in2019 and recorded57 tackles and 2.5sacks. Showedenough promise tomake a qualifyingoffer.

Clive Walford, TE - Arotational tight endwho has never puttogether all of his sizeand athleticism. Soliddepth piece for afranchise as asecond or third tightend.

The Teardown Movie

AFCNORTH2020


The Ravens now feature the league MVP, as the rest ofthe division is experiencing a lot of change.


Baltimore RavensGM: Eric DeCostaCoach: John Harbaugh2019 Record: 14-2

Pittsburgh SteelersGM: Kevin ColbertCoach: Mike Tomlin2019 Record: 8-8

Cleveland BrownsGM: Andrew BerryCoach: Kevin Stefanski2019 Record: 6-10

Cincinnati BengalsGM: Mike BrownCoach: Zac Taylor2019 Record: 2-14

Brandon Carr, CB: Gave up five touchdowns in coverage in 2019. The veteransecondary player also spent time at safety but is no longer a $7M dollar a year player.Carr could return with a smaller deal. Cap savings: $6M

Brandon Williams, DT: The decision here is whether a two down defensive playershould cost $14M against the salary cap. Williams is a good player, but typically onlyplays 45-53% of the defensive snaps in the Ravens defense. Cap savings: $4.3M

(-image source cbsbaltimore.com)


Baltimore2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 2ndDef. Rank: 4th


Last year in this very publication thediscussion point for the future of theBaltimore Ravens centered on quarterbackLamar Jackson taking the next step in hisdevelopment. In 2019, he did just that andso much more.

Lamar Jackson was an offensive force ofnature this past season. A hurricane of yardsand points. Yes, the highlight runs were stillthere as Jackson rushed for 1,206 yards andseven touchdowns. But his work undercenter showed what the best athlete can doon the field when attacking the defense withhis arm. Jackson threw for 3,167 yards and36 touchdowns. His league MVP award waswell deserved.

Now it’s about what Lamar Jackson does for

an encore. The Baltimore Ravens will enter2020 as a Super Bowl favorite.

The Ravens will use this offseason to add totheir pass rush and provide another receiverto add to their dangerous offense. Alsosecuring offensive line help will be anotherkey as guard Marshal Yanda has openlydiscussed retirement this offseason.

For all of their fireworks offensively, theRavens are a physical run-based team. Theplayoff injury to running back Mark Ingramdemonstrated what happens when the Ravenslose their physical run presence.

The Ravens are set to make a run at thechampion Chiefs and the rest of the NFL.That run will be led by the league MVP.

Key Free Agents

Jimmy Smith, CB -Returned from injuryin 2019 just to missmore time with aknee injury. Shouldbe looking around theleague for a veteranminimum deal.

Michael Pierce, DT -Run stuffer who’s jobis to take up blockersand allow thelinebackers to flow tothe football.

Patrick Onwuasor, LB- An important playerfor the Ravensdefense early in2019, an ankle injurylimited his snaps overthe remainder of2019. Recorded 64tackles and threesacks.

Seth Roberts, WR -Had the worst seasonof his career catchingjust 21 passes for271 yards and twotouchdowns.

Pernell McPhee, OLB- Injuries have takenaway McPhee’sversatility andavailability. Missedthe final nine gamesof the season with atriceps injury.

An MVP Performance

Mark Barron, LB: Was not a quality player in the Steelers defense in 2019. Does notseem to fit well and know where to be regularly in the Steelers schemes. A change ofscenery is likely. Cap savings: $5.2M

Anthony Chickillo, LB: Played just 13% of the snaps on defense in 2019 and wasprimarily a special teams player. But is paid like a solid NFL starter. Cap savings: $5M



Pittsburgh2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 30thDef. Rank: 5th


The Pittsburgh Steelers 2019 season is atestament to the leadership of head coachMike Tomlin. While an 8-8 season leavesmuch to desire, what the Steelers enduredwas the type of player losses that sink teamsto 3-13 records.

It started last offseason with the losses ofreceiver Antonio Brown and running backLe’veon Bell. It continued when quarterbackBen Roethlisberger was lost week two to anelbow injury. What followed was a merry-go-round of players being asked to fill theroles of these pivotal players.

The Steelers rebounded from an 0-3 start topost winning streaks of four and threegames. The team would start MasonRudolph for eight games and Devlin Hodges

for another six games. These are hardlyhousehold names. And yet, the Steelersentered late December with an 8-5 record anda shot to make the playoffs. A credit to MikeTomlin indeed.

The 2020 offseason is about what is next forthis proud franchise. The team expects to getback a healthy Roethlisberger but the clockis ticking as he will turn 38 years old inMarch. With his draft counterparts in EliManning and Philip Rivers at the end, BigBen can’t be far behind.

The Steelers lack a first round pick, so thequarterback of the future will likely not bepart of this draft. But the Steelers need toprepare for the future that is coming. Theirhead coach is up for that challenge.

Key Free Agents

Bud Dupree, OLB -Has developed into aquality edge rusherduring his five yearsin Pittsburgh.Recorded a careerhigh 11.5 sacks in2019

Javon Hargrave, DL -Has the dynamicability to play insideand outside while stillcontroling the rungame and creatingpressure in thepassing game.Combined to get 10.5sacks over the pasttwo seasons.

Artie Burns, CB - Therelationship betweenBurns and theSteelers is not good.Has not lived up tohis first roundselection or his earlycareer production.

Nick Vannett, TE -Made 13 catches for128 yards after hisaquisition from theSeattle Seahawks.

BJ Finney, G - Madefour starts and wasthe primary backupon the interior lineover the 16 games of2019.

What’s Next in 2020?

Christian Kirksey, LB: Has been unable to stay healthy over the past two seasons aftersigning his big contract. Kirksey played in just two games in 2019 and missed ninegames in 2018. Cap savings: $7.5M

Terrance Mitchell, CB: Was just okay playing in the Browns secondary. Gave up a largeamount of completed passes in 2019. Cap savings: $3M

(-image source washingtontimes.com)


Cleveland2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 22ndDef. Rank: 22nd


The Cleveland Browns are changing onceagain. This pretty much can be written on ayearly basis.

Last year the Browns search firm suggestedthat Minnesota Vikings assistant coachKevin Stefanski was their man to lead theminto the future. The team passed on him atthe time. A year later, he is now the newcoach of the Cleveland Browns.

Since 2013 the Browns have had fivedifferent head coaches as they search for thesecret sauce. While continuity has proven tobe a hallmark of good teams in the NFL theBrowns have constantly changed.

The Browns have talent this time around.But one has to wonder if the amount of

change once again sets them up for failure?

Successful NFL teams change their rostersbut maintain an identity. The Browns areonce again in a situation with a coach andfront office who will look to alter the rosterto fit what they want. It’s a recipe for losing.

The Browns seemed to have the rightquarterback in Baker Mayfield, who rejectsthe idea that the Browns are perennial losers.But his reaction to outside criticism causesone to question his maturity.

Couple that with the volatitly of receiversOdell Beckham Jr and Jarvis Landry, canStefanski really get this group on the samepage?

It’s a time of change in Cleveland again.

Key Free Agents

Greg Robinson, LT -Was one of the mostpenalized tackles inthe NFL, but alsoplayed well enough toearn anothercontract. Played 2019on one-year deal.

Joe Schobert, LB - Ledthe Browns in tacklesrecording 113.Played nearly everysnap defensively.Schober looks to testfree agency.

Juston Burris, S/CB -Versatile player whomoved around theBrowns secondaryand played well.Intercepted twopasses playing bothsafety and slotcorner.

Kareem Hunt (RFA),RB - Rushed for 4.2yards per carry in2019 and also caught37 passes returningfrom leaguesuspension. TheBrowns will have tomake a qualifyingoffer to Hunt in orderto secure draft pickcompensation for hisrights.

Another Change at The Top

Andy Dalton, QB: The Bengals will be drafting a quarterback highly, ending the Daltonera. Dalton lost his job during the season before getting it back for the final five games.The 32 year old has a record of 70-61-2 during his career. Cap savings $17.7M

Giovani Bernard, RB: Set to count over $4M against the 2020 cap. Bernard rushed forjust 170 yards in 2019 while catching a career low 30 passes. Cap savings $2.8M

(-image source theinquistr.com)


Cincinnati Bengals2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 26thDef. Rank: 29th


From 2011 to 2015, the Cincinnati Bengalswent 52-27-1 delivering playoff seasonsover the time period. But a 19-28-1 recordfrom 2016 to 2018 ended the era of headcoach Marvin Lewis.

Enter new coach Zac Taylor who fit thetrend of hiring young offensive mindsaround the league. The Bengals planned torun an offense that would put pressure ondefenses and points on the board. After apreseason injury to receiver AJ Green, theoffense sputtered. A 2-14 season followed in2019.

The Bengals now hold the number oneoverall pick in the NFL Draft. LSU HeismanTrophy winning quarterback and Ohionative Joe Burrow is expected to be the

pick as the Bengals begin a new era in theirteam history. What Burrow finds when hearrives is what this offseason is about.

The Bengals featured one of the worstdefenses in the league last season and thatstarted with their inability to stop the run.The team gave up 4.7 yards per carry. Fixingthe defensive line, namely the defensiveinterior will be a key this offseason. TheBengals offensive line will also needreinforcements as they graded out as one ofthe worst in the NFL. Certainly not ideal fora young quarterback to play behind.

The Bengals in 2020 will have a college starplaying under center. But if they are to getback to their playoff era, they need to makesure he’s setup for success.

Key Free Agents

Aj Green, WR - Missedall of 2019 with tornligaments in hisankle. The seven-time Pro Bowlershould still be able toland a qualitycontract or get hitwith the franchisetag.

Darqueze Dennard, CB- Had a solid seasonfor a bad footballteam. Recorded fivepasses defended in2019, and 17 overthe past threeseasons.

Tyler Eifert, TE - Wasfinally healthy andable to play in 16games for the firsttime during his seven-year career.Recorded 43 catchesand threetouchdowns in 2019.

Andrew Billings, DT -Played well recording35 tackles as aninterior run defender.

Nick Vigil, LB -Recorded 111 tacklesin 2019. The formerthird round pick hadhis best season andis looking at a solidcontract.

Drafting #1

AFCWEST2020


The Chiefs are the champions for the first time in 50years.


Kansas City ChiefsGM: Brett VeachCoach: Andy Reid2019 Record: 12-4

Denver BroncosVP of Ops: John ElwayCoach: Vic Fangio2019 Record: 7-9

Las Vegas RaidersGM: Mike MayokCoach: Jon Gruden2019 Record: 7-9

Los Angeles ChargersGM: Tom TelescoCoach: Anthony Lynn2019 Record: 5-11

Sammy Watkins, WR: Has never become the elite receiver that his draft status indicated.Has recorded just a single thousand yard receiving season when he played in Buffalo in2015. Recorded 52 catches in 2019 for 673 yards and three touchdowns. A move torelease would give the Chiefs more space for several deals this offseason. Cap savings:$14M

(-image source dallasnews.com)


Kansas City2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 6thDef. Rank: 17th


For the first time in 50 NFL seasons, theKansas City Chiefs are Super BowlChampions.

January 11th, 1970 was the previous timethat this organization won the leaguechampionship. Since then the Chiefs havehad other great football teams that have hadlegitimate shots to win a championship. Butnone could get it done until this 2019version.

The numbers for quarterback PatrickMahomes and this Chiefs offense wereastounding. With his MVP performance inthe Super Bowl, Mahomes became theyoungest quarterback to win the award.Mahomes is now a league MVP and a SuperBowl MVP at the age of 24.

Consider that Mahomes and the Chiefs were5-0 in 2019 when trailing by double-digits.Their three double-digit comeback wins inthe NFL Playoffs were also a league record.This group accomplished what we had neverseen before.

The Chiefs will face the challenge of keepingtheir championship group together. EverySuper Bowl winner deals with teams comingin to pick them over. Defensive linemanChris Jones is going to get a massive paydayor the franchise tag.

Rosters change for NFL teams constantly. Aslong as the Chiefs have a healthy PatrickMahomes they’re going to have a shot everyseason to win the Super Bowl. The 50 yearwait is over.

Key Free Agents

Chris Jones, DL - Theteam’s biggestpriority thisoffseason. Hasrecorded 24.5 sacksover the past twoseasons. Will make arun at $20M perseason.

Emmanuel Ogbah, DE- Put together a goodseason in KCrecording 5.5 sacksand 32 tackles.Suffered a torn pecthat ended hisseason. Was theChiefs leading sackerat time of injury andwill have a market.

Kendall Fuller, CB -Gave the Chiefsplayoff snaps atsafety after lateseason injuries.

Bashaud Breeland, CB- Plays a lot, but theveteran cornerbackstruggled in coveragein 2019.

Demarcus Robinson,WR - The beneficiaryof the Chiefs prolificoffense. Caught acareer high 32passes for 449 yardsand four touchdownsin 2019.

A Once in a Lifetime Player

Joe Flacco, QB: With Drew Lock now under center, Flacco’s contract can be moved offthe roster. While it creates $13M in dead cap space, it also gives John Elway moremoney to work with this offseason. Cap savings: $10M

Ron Leary, G: The injury concerns that dropped him in the draft and made him availableas a free agent for the Broncos showed up during his time in Denver. Leary has yet toplay 16 games in a season for the Broncos and has missed 19 games. Cap savings:$8.5M

(-image source denverbroncos.com)


Denver2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 28thDef. Rank: 12th


Denver Broncos team general manager JohnElway may have found something. Thatsomething has been elusive in recent years.

In the years since the retirement of PeytonManning, the Broncos have looked underevery rock and tried nearly every option tofind their next quarterback. The team hasgone with Trevor Siemian, Paxton Lynch,Brock Osweiler, Joe Flacco and BrandonAllen under center trying to get it done.

Enter Drew Lock, the rookie quarterbackfrom Missouri who was selected with the42nd pick in the 2019 draft. Lock took overin week 13 and led the Broncos to a 4-1record. Lock would complete 64% of hispasses while tossing seven touchdowns andthree interceptions.

If Elway and the Broncos have thequarterback situation under control, theyhave a ton of flexibility to setup their rosterthis offseason. The Broncos have the mostcap space they have had under Elway’sleadership. They also hold 12 picks,including three third rounders and twofourth round picks. The Broncos also featurethe third youngest roster in the NFL.

Denver will need to secure additional talentat offensive tackle and cornerback. Headcoach Vic Fangio had the defense playingwell again in 2019 but would love to addsome pieces to aid the pass rush. Adding aweapon or two for Drew Lock wouldn’t hurteither.

As long Lock truly is the ever elusive QB.

Key Free Agents

Justin Simmmons, FS -Had a breakoutseason just in timefor free agency.Recorded 93 tacklesand intercepted fourpasses, namedsecond team All-Pro.

Chris Harris, CB -Reportedly wants toreturn but plans totest the market to seewhat his value isrelative to otherteams. Turns 31years old thissummer.

Derek Wolfe, DE - Thepass rusher and rundefender had aquality 2019.Recorded a careerhigh seven sacks.

Connor McGovern, C -Allowed just one sackin 2019 andcommitted zeropenalties. A solidplayer at the positionwho will get a qualitycontract.

Will Parks, S/CB -Played as a nickelcornerback but canalso play as a safety.Made 35 tackles lastseason andintercepted a pass.

An Offseason with Resources

Gabe Jackson, G: Missed eight games over the past two seasons. If the Raiders trulywant to overhaul their line and lineup for Las Vegas, Jackson would provide additionalcap space. Cap savings: $9.6M

Tyrell Williams, WR: Williams was signed to be a complimentary player and turned inhis typical 40 catch season, his third consecutive season to do so. But his cap number for2020 indicates he’s very good second receiver. That hasn’t been the case. Cap savings:$11.1M

(-image source raiders.com)


Las Vegas2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 11thDef. Rank: 19th


In the storied history of the Raiders, movingfrom one community to the next is nothingnew. But this time around the Raiders havefound a way to create one of the mostanticipated fan experiences in leaguehistory.

The Raiders are now the Las Vegas Raiders.After a couple of lame duck seasons inOakland, the NFL fans in Las Vegas couldnot be more excited about Jon Gruden andhis team coming to the city. The Raidersplan for this offseason couldn’t be moreVegas, as they plan to purse and land freeagent quarterback Tom Brady.

With nearly $80M dollars in cap space, theRaiders have more than enough to meet anyfinancial desires Brady might have. But they

can also offer Brady a far more luxuriousexperience than several other NFL cities.With Los Angeles just a short trip away, theRaiders can offer a flexible roster with theability to spend that a team like the Chargerscan’t do.

Considering head coach Jon Gruden’saffinity for veteran quarterbacks, it would allmake sense.

The Raiders were a 6-4 football team afterthe first 10 games of 2019. They’re not thatfar off from being ready to compete for theirfirst playoff season since 2016.

The Raiders have a new home and arelooking to make a huge splash. They’re in nobetter city to do so.

Key Free Agents

Daryl Worley, CB - A15 game starter in2019 put together asolid season. Formerthird round pick. Asolid contract iscoming.

Dion Jordan, DL - Theformer top five pickcame back to addsome pressure to theRaiders pass rush.

**Denzelle Good, G -Stepped in due toinjury and providedsolid guard play.Quality veterandepth. (**signed to 1year deal Jan 9th2020)

Karl Joseph, SS -Despite missingseven games, stillposted a qualityseason that will makehim a coveted freeagent.

DeAndre Washington,HB - Caught 36passes for 292 yards.Rushed for 387yards.

Jalen Richard, HB -Receiving andchange of pace backcaught 36 passes for323 yards and rushedfor 145 yards.

On To Las Vegas

Denzel Perryman, LB: Returned from a knee injury and did not play well enough to beconsidered an $8M dollar player. Made 10 starts and played in 14 games. The teamcould give him another season, but it seems this program is moving on from injuredveterans this offseason. Cap savings: $6.5M

Mike Pouncey, C: The neck injury that ended Pouncey’s season may have ended hiscareer. If healthy, Pouncey is more than worth his contract. The health issue is the onlyreason he would not be part of the 2020 Chargers. Cap savings: $4.7M

(-image source mighty1090.com)


Los Angeles2020 OffseasonOff. Rank: 10thDef. Rank: 6th


The Los Angeles Chargers are set to moveinto their new stadium along with the LosAngeles Rams. The team that will be on thefield will look wildly different than theyhave in recent memory.

Quarterback Philip Rivers will not return tothe team after 16 seasons, 14 as the startingquarterback. Rivers has decided to move hisfamily to Florida and will decide if he wantsto play again in 2020. Running back MelvinGordon is set to be a free agent after holdingout from the team early in the season with acontract dispute.

Critics of the Chargers will point out theirrelocation fee as the reason the team hasbeen thrifty with their recent transcations.This offseason will either fuel that fire or

put it to rest. With more than $60M dollars incap space this offseason, the Chargers havemore than enough money available to pivotaway from the Rivers era and set themselvesup as a playoff contender again.

The Chargers do hold the 6th overall pick inthe NFL Draft and could look to select theirquarterback of the future. Selecting aquarterback in the first round would be thefirst time the team has done so since 2004.While bringing in a veteran would make theChargers competitive faster, moving into anew building with a new franchisequarterback does have it’s own appeal.

No matter what the Chargers choose to doone thing is certain. They will have acompletely new look.

Key Free Agents

Philip Rivers, QB - The38 year oldquarterback will notbe back with the LAChargers. Whetherhe decides to play in2020 will depend onthe situation forRivers and his family.

Melvin Gordon, RB -The big pay daydidn’t materialize in2019 with theChargers. Rushed for612 yards after aprolonged holdout.

Travis Benjamin, TE -Made just six catchesand played in fivegames last season.

Hunter Henry, TE - Thetalented tight end is aconstant injury risk.Has played in just 41games over fourseasons. Made 55catches in 2019 withfive touchdowns.

Michael Schofield, G -In a season withoffensive lineinstability, Schofieldplayed every snap forthe Chargers offensein 2019. Has startedevery game for theChargers the pasttwo seasons.

Massive Changes Coming

About the AuthorCarlos Medina has worked in the sports talk radio industry since 2001 as a Producer, Host

and News Reporter. A graduate of Texas Wesleyan University and The University of

Alabama, he has covered NFL assignments in both the Dallas and Atlanta markets. Carlos is

a dedicated fan of the game and a student of NFL organizational success. He has also served

as a media consultant for Atlanta-based NFL Combine training facilities teaching future

NFL draftees about the business and media aspects of the NFL. His work can be heard

weekdays on Sports Radio 680 The Fan in Atlanta, GA. He lives in Cumming, GA with his

wife and two daughters.

Follow him on Twitter @frontofficelos

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NFL OFFSEASON PREVIEW - 680 The Fan | 680 The Fan€¦ · year several teams made signicant moves that proved to be major factors during the 2019 season. ... Shrek 2 was the box office