2024 NFL Draft: What does each team in the AFC North division need? Projected picks
As the NFL draft approaches, teams in the AFC North are preparing for what should be a competitive season. Each team is aiming to address key areas of need.
NFL Draft 2024 live online: First-round picks, teams, players and big board updates
Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals have the 18th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, and there is a debate about which position to prioritize. Some believe that tight end is the team’s most pressing need, while others argue that the focus should shift to other areas.
Looking at the current roster, the team has just drafted Brock Bowers, the only first-round tight end available. However, it’s not just about filling a spot; sometimes, the team has to address a need. Many analysts are sure the team’s offensive line needs restructuring despite recent acquisitions like Trent Brown. Questions still linger about the ongoing need for the tackle position. Although Trent Brown has been with the team for a year, a good tackle is not an acute need, but it’s still necessary.
Other positions, including defensive tackle, cornerback, safety, running back, and wide receiver, are scrutinized for their potential impact on the team’s success. Despite differing opinions, the consensus is that cornerback may be the Bengals’ most pressing need. However, some argue that the team’s current cornerbacks show promise and can develop over time.
In conclusion, the team can settle on cornerback as the priority, aiming to address concerns and solidify the team’s defense for the upcoming season.
Browns
Discussions about their draft strategy have led to debates about their perceived needs, with quarterback being a topic of contention. Despite attempts to address various positions, such as wide receiver and offensive line, many believe the team lacks a clear-cut need due to their previous season’s efforts to build depth and roster strength.
Potential draft targets such as Patrick Paul and Michael Penix Jr. are considered developmental quarterbacks. Some envision a competitive quarterback room with Penix Jr. alongside Deshawn Watson, Jameis Winston, Tyler Huntley, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
The Browns face a dilemma: should they prioritize addressing perceived needs or focus on drafting the best available player? Despite the uncertainty, it is clear that the Browns’ draft strategy is far from straightforward, and the outcome remains uncertain.
Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens urgently need an edge rusher, and recent developments have highlighted the urgency of addressing this key position. During the off-season, the team experienced significant departures, including key players, coaching staff, and front-office personnel. However, the addition of Derrick Henry has provided a glimmer of hope for the team’s offense, particularly in combination with Keaton Mitchell’s skills, which stress the potential for a dynamic running game.
Although there have been doubts about the team’s recent struggles, there is consensus that addressing the pass rush should be a top priority. The choice between an edge rusher or a guard has been debated, but we believe an edge rusher is the most necessary.
Looking at potential draft targets, Chop Robinson is rising as a top candidate. While there are concerns about his fit within the Ravens’ defensive scheme, his pass-rushing abilities make him an attractive option.
Ultimately, the Ravens could select Robinson with the 30th pick, signaling their commitment to shoring up their pass rush for the upcoming season.
Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have some important decisions to make as they approach the 20th overall pick in the draft. While quarterback may not be a top priority, other positions, such as the offensive line, need attention.
One player who may need to be replaced is Dan Moore Jr. This has led to discussions about potential draft targets, including Isaia Faga.
If the Steelers do choose to select Faga, he is a highly promising prospect with a reputation for dominating the run game. Given the AFC Central’s emphasis on physicality and run-blocking, Faga would be an excellent match for the Steelers’ offensive line. Although he played on the defensive line at Alabama, he has great power and speed that transition to the next level and could also be used in the offense.