The 2024 NFL season will be here before you know it, as the summer lull before training camp will soon give way to preseason games and the September kickoff we’re all waiting for.
While some teams feel set for their rosters with veteran and rookies aplenty, there are a few contenders who might consider options in free agency to help with depth or add starting competition before the regular season starts.
We’ve identified eight teams that could meaningfully contend in their divisions this season and some free agents that may help them.
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Atlanta Falcons
Secondary
The Falcons should be a real threat to win the NFC South this fall and perhaps play spoiler in the postseason. The offense looks ready to go as is, and the defensive front seven is stacked with veterans and rookies to sort through. However, the secondary could use a veteran investment or two ahead of training camp. The team has options at cornerback and safety, but bringing in a player with experience in Raheem Morris’ defense might be a smart move for a team that really needs to contend sooner than later.
Options: CB Ahkello Witherspoon, S John Johnson III
Witherspoon and Johnson have both played for the Los Angeles Rams, where Morris just finished three years as defensive coordinator. They’d both fill starting roles if need be and could be excellent depth at absolute worst.
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Baltimore Ravens
Guard
The Ravens don’t have a proven option at left guard right now, and that might not be the best plan of action for a team that is trying to supplant the Kansas City Chiefs as the team to beat in the AFC. The team might sleep easier with a veteran on the roster to contend for a spot on the offensive line protecting superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Options: G Halapoulivaati Vaitai, G Gabe Jackson
Vaitai started last year for the Detroit Lions at guard and represents the best option out there to contend for the Ravens. Jackson is another solid veteran option who most recently played for the Carolina Panthers.
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Buffalo Bills
Wide receiver
The Bills aren’t lacking for names to fill the depth chart spots at receiver right now. It’s just that not all of those options inspire a ton of confidence for a Buffalo team that is trying to win a Super Bowl this upcoming season. Finding a player of Stefon Diggs’ caliber isn’t happening right now, but there are some interesting names available in free agency that provide experience.
Options: WR Michael Thomas, WR Hunter Renfrow
Thomas has struggled to stay healthy in the past few seasons, but when he’s on, he’s a starting-caliber talent. Renfrow feels like he was miscast on his recent Las Vegas Raiders teams and could benefit from a fresh start.