2024 NFL Draft: what does each team in the NFC East division need? Projected picks

NFL Draft 2024 live online: First-round picks, teams, players and big board updates

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders are preparing for the upcoming NFL draft, and their primary focus remains securing a quality quarterback. With significant changes in their quarterback room, including the departure of their signal-caller, Washington is under pressure to find a solution to their quarterback dilemma. The Commanders’ decision-making process has been influenced by various factors, including the need to address issues like sack rate, which is a critical metric in evaluating quarterbacks. For instance, Jaden Daniels’ high sack rate is a cause for concern, as quarterbacks with high sack rates tend to struggle.

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While the Commanders have made significant improvements in free agency, including acquiring key defensive players like Carlton Davis and DJ Reader, their focus in the draft remains on the quarterback position and other areas of need. Washington has done well in free agency, but there’s room for improvement. Adding an edge rusher to complement and bolster the offensive line remains a priority for the future.

The Commanders’ approach to the draft reflects their desire to build a well-rounded and competitive team. With Drake May expected to be their second-round pick, Washington aims to solidify their quarterback position while addressing other key areas, positioning themselves for success in the upcoming season.

New York Giants

The New York Giants are currently at a crucial point in their team-building process. They need to evaluate their roster and plan for the future. The Giants have an opportunity to make significant selections, but they need to prioritize their biggest needs. One of the most important questions the Giants must address is whether they need a quarterback. Experts suggest that the definition of need goes beyond immediate concerns and includes a broader outlook. For example, if the Giants think they might need to replace Daniel Jones in the next two years, then quarterback becomes necessary.

Some propose using a ranking system that evaluates each position group on a scale from zero to five to help determine their top needs. This system provides a more comprehensive view of the team’s strengths and weaknesses. According to this scale, the Giants’ top needs are cornerback and wide receiver. While the offensive line is also a consideration, especially with the best tackle still available, a blue-chip receiver like Rome Odunze could tip the scales in their favor. The top cornerback prospects, such as Quinan Mitchell and Teran Arnold, offer significant talent and depth. However, the receiver class is equally impressive, with Rome Odunze potentially being a first-round steal.

The Giants also need to consider their current roster composition. Despite Deontay Banks’s disappointing rookie season, the team is committed to giving him time to develop, which could mitigate the immediate need at cornerback. Ultimately, the Giants need to balance their immediate needs against future considerations. While cornerback and wide receiver rank high on their priority list, the possibility of getting a talent like Rome Odunze may sway their decision at the sixth overall pick.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles focus on identifying their biggest areas of need and making strategic choices to strengthen their roster as they approach the draft selection. One key consideration is the guard position, as Cam Jurgens will replace Jason Kelce at center. Therefore, the Eagles need a reliable option at right guard to complete their offensive line. Right guard is definitely a priority for them because they need someone to fill that role effectively. However, the Eagles have strengths across the board in key positions like cornerback, defensive line, safety, and linebacker, leaving them with few glaring needs.

The Eagles’ defensive line, anchored by players like Devon White, is formidable. They have a solid running back, wide receiver, and tight end. Tackle and edge rushers are positions they typically value, but they’re well-covered in those areas. In a way, the Eagles face a dilemma: selecting based on immediate needs or opting for the best available talent. With players like Dallas Turner and JC Latham still on the board, the temptation to draft for need is substantial.

However, you risk missing out on top talent at other positions when you draft for need. Despite the temptation to fill the guard position, the Eagles ultimately prioritize versatility and talent. With JC Latham available, they make a bold move by selecting him to solidify their offensive line. Moving Latham to guard provides the Eagles with flexibility and strength up front. This pick allows them to crush opponents in the trenches.

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys have some areas of concern that are drawing attention. One of the main concerns is the running back position. Currently, Duce Vaughn is the starting running back, but there are questions about the team’s depth and ability to handle the workload. Although Vaughn is talented, his small size of 5′5″ and 176 pounds raises concerns about his ability to carry the load.

Another position being considered is cornerback. While Jourdan Lewis primarily plays in the slot, the Cowboys lack a standout outside corner to complement Trevon Diggs. The team needs a reliable option on the outside to strengthen its defense. In addition to these positions, the Cowboys also have needs at center and guard. TJ Bass and Brock Hoffman are potential options to bolster the offensive line. These needs will require some tough decisions, and Jerry Jones might surprise everyone with a bold move, as he is known to do.