Which NFL team most needs to nail their draft class?

The NFL Draft is set for April 24th, and we’re now just a couple of weeks away. It’s crucial for every team to hit on their draft picks, as they’re investing both time and money into these players. However, in my opinion, there are several teams that need to hit on their draft picks more than others. Here are five teams who I believe need to nail their draft class this year:

Cincinnati Bengals: With significant money invested in Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins — all deserving of top-market deals — the Bengals can’t afford to let another great offensive season go to waste because of defensive struggles. They need to address the Trey Hendrickson situation while also adding another edge rusher and strengthening the defensive line. Secondary help would also be valuable, along with continued investment in the offensive line.

Cleveland Browns: The Browns hold the 2nd overall pick and have tied themselves to Deshaun Watson’s hefty contract. With limited cap space and large investments in both Watson and Myles Garrett, they need to address multiple positions. While the quarterback situation remains uncertain, they also need upgrades at running back and edge rusher to complement Garrett. Potential upgrades to the offensive line will also be important, as they may face line issues in the future.

Dallas Cowboys: Teams with complicated cap situations often top these kinds of lists. The Cowboys, with significant money tied up in Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Trevon Diggs, will soon have to pay Micah Parsons top-tier money as well. To balance these hefty contracts, they need to hit on several draft picks. Adding another wide receiver to complement Lamb should be a priority, along with upgrading the running back position and bolstering the offensive line.

Los Angeles Rams: This might be an interesting take, but the Rams need to continue their streak of drafting productive classes to stay competitive in their current window. Recent picks like Jared Verse, Braden Fiske, Puka Nacua, and Kyren Williams have helped solidify the Rams as one of the top teams in the NFC. However, with Cooper Kupp gone and Matthew Stafford nearing the end of his career, they need to identify their quarterback of the future and strengthen the secondary to maximize this window.

San Francisco 49ers: The 2025 49ers will look much different than the 2024 version. Key contributors like Deebo Samuel, Talanoa Hufanga, Dre Greenlaw, and Aaron Banks are gone, Trent Williams is nearing the end of his career, and Brock Purdy is due for an extension. To remain competitive in their current window, the 49ers will need to upgrade several key areas, including the offensive line (on both sides), the defensive line, and the secondary.