As the 2024 NFL trade deadline approaches following Week 9, teams are making their last in-season adjustments to strengthen rosters for a playoff push or future development. This annual deadline closes the most impactful period for roster changes, especially for franchises eyeing strategic improvements.
Throughout the season, each team’s roster is being evaluated with a focus on weaknesses and potential upgrades. By season’s end, we’ll have compiled a comprehensive list of each team’s primary needs—from immediate holes to long-term aspirations, including the 2025 NFL draft and free agency prospects. This approach goes beyond reactions to single games and considers each team’s overarching roster-building strategy.
For the AFC, analyst Alex Ballentine provides assessments, while NFC teams are scouted by Matt Holder. Each Monday, fans can look forward to in-depth roster insights and updates across the league.
Team Highlights
Arizona Cardinals: Playoff Push on the Horizon
Once thought to be potential sellers at the trade deadline, the Arizona Cardinals have surprised many by climbing to the top of the NFC West standings after a dominant 29-9 win over Chicago. Now with three consecutive wins, the Cardinals may look to add key pieces for a playoff run.
Key Weaknesses:
- Defensive Tackle: The Cardinals could benefit from trading for Tennessee Titans’ defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day, who has been solid this season with 19 tackles, two sacks, and multiple pressures.
- Other Needs: Edge-rusher, cornerback, guard, and right tackle.
- Looking Ahead to Free Agency and Draft: With interior line needs growing, guard Aaron Banks from San Francisco is a potential free-agent target, while cornerback Jahdae Barron of Texas could address secondary depth in the 2025 draft.
Atlanta Falcons: Poised for NFC South Dominance
After a rocky start, the Atlanta Falcons have hit their stride, winning five of their last six games, including a recent victory over Dallas. With the playoffs in sight, the Falcons may be just a move or two away from solidifying their spot in the postseason.
Key Weaknesses:
- Edge-Rusher: The Falcons, struggling with only six sacks this season, could look to trade for Giants edge-rusher Azeez Ojulari to elevate their pass rush.
- Other Needs: Defensive tackle, center, nickelback, and linebacker.
- 2025 Targets: Slot corner Mike Hilton of Cincinnati could upgrade Atlanta’s secondary, while Georgia’s Jalon Walker, a versatile edge/linebacker prospect, could be a potential 2025 draft target.
Baltimore Ravens: Eyeing a Super Bowl Run
After a narrow loss to Cleveland, the Ravens rebounded with a commanding 41-10 win over Denver, further establishing themselves as Super Bowl contenders. Wide receiver Zay Flowers impressed with 127 receiving yards, while quarterback Lamar Jackson delivered an MVP-worthy performance.
Key Weaknesses:
- Interior offensive line, wide receiver, offensive tackle, edge-rusher, and cornerback.
With the trade deadline closing in, teams across the league are assessing whether to bolster their ranks now or focus on upcoming offseason opportunities, setting the stage for an exciting second half of the NFL season.