Bouncing Back: 4 NFL Teams Poised for Big Turnarounds in 2024
NFL history is littered with examples of teams turning things around after disappointing seasons. We can point to recent examples, not least the Super Bowl LII winners, the Philadelphia Eagles, who managed to win it all a season after flopping. Of course, none of this is uncommon: trades and draft picks mean plenty of teams can suddenly find themselves with the pieces in place to transform from a poor team into a competitive one.
That said, these things are often clearer in hindsight. NFL fans know that the trajectory of a season can change in a short time. Indeed, anyone live betting on an NFL game will know that things can change in a single play. But we have reason to believe that the following quartet can complete big turnarounds in 2024. They might need the rub of the green to go their way, but that’s normal in football, and these four have the pieces in place to be competitive in the new season.
New York Jets (7-10 in 2023)
Posting a 7-10 record in the last two seasons and a dismal 55-109 record over the last decade (the second worst in the NFL), it always seems to be a question of whether “next season will be better” for the Jets. But are the green shoots finally going to blossom? Defense, in particular, looks like it will be solid for the Jets, and the growing maturity of 2022 draftees Sauce Gardener and Garret Wilson could see them become cornerstones of the team. The problem is, of course, the quarterback position. Zach Wilson hasn’t lived up to expectations, and Aaron Rodgers has injury issues, so a trade might be on the cards. If they can get it right, they can compete and go a lot further than people expect.
Denver Broncos (8-9)
The Broncos were a whisker away from being good last season, although they had to deal with just about every issue you can throw at an NFL team – coaching changes, injuries to key players, inconsistency at quarterback, and defensive frailties. It is obviously not guaranteed that those things will automatically improve, but the Broncos should be healthier and have the chance to follow a clear plan under Sean Payton. Russell Wilson will be key, for sure. If he can buy into Payton’s vision and stay healthy, the Broncos can be competitive in an intriguing AFC West.
Chicago Bears (7-10)
The 2024 No.1 overall draft pick Caleb Williams is primed to play a significant role for the Bears. Despite his quality, there is always a risk when heaping the pressure on a young player, especially at quarterback, but the rumors coming out of the Bears camp are that Williams is ready. More importantly, the Bears have strengthened all around, and they might be able to offer Williams the offensive support and protection he needs to flourish. The Bears actually have one of the easiest schedules in the league (ranked 30th in difficulty overall), so the Williams era might begin with a winning season.
Atlanta Falcons (7-10)
The Falcons have been “quiet” builders over the last few seasons, using draft picks and trades to create a roster that is full of potential. Like the Bears, they have one of the easiest schedules for the 2024 season. Yes, they lack stars, but there is enough in this team, particularly with the addition of Kirk Cousins at quarterback, to see the Falcons posting a winning record. Moreover, the weaknesses among other teams in the NFC South mean the Falcons could easily top the division with a little luck.
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