The 2024 NFL offseason may turn out to be one of the most intriguing periods in recent league history. Teams will shape their strategies based on the outcomes of the 2023 season, making bold moves to position themselves for a potential Super Bowl run. The NFL offseason of 2024 is already generating speculation, with fans and analysts predicting blockbuster trades and roster shakeups.
In recent years, teams have shown a willingness to make dramatic moves, including high-profile trades of elite players. Here are three major scenarios that could unfold during the NFL offseason of 2024, capturing widespread media attention and reshaping the league.
1. Arizona Cardinals Secure the #1 Overall Pick in the 2024 NFL Draft
As 2023 mock drafts give way to early predictions for 2024, the Arizona Cardinals are a team to watch. With a challenging 2023 season ahead, there is a realistic possibility that the Cardinals could earn the #1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Caleb Williams, widely regarded as the top quarterback prospect and often compared to Patrick Mahomes, could become the centerpiece of the Cardinals’ rebuild.
A new coaching staff and the opportunity to reset the quarterback position might lead the Cardinals to trade Kyler Murray, who is recovering from an ACL tear. According to overthecap.com, trading Murray after June 1st would save the team an impressive $38.8 million against their salary cap. This financial flexibility, combined with the prospect of drafting Williams, makes a reset at quarterback an appealing option for Arizona. Such a move would be one of the defining moments of the NFL offseason of 2024.
2. Denver Broncos Consider Moving on from Russell Wilson
Russell Wilson’s tenure with the Denver Broncos has been underwhelming, and the 2024 NFL offseason could mark the end of his time in Denver. If Wilson fails to make significant progress in his second season under head coach Sean Payton, the Broncos may decide to cut ties and start fresh.
While releasing Wilson would result in a staggering $35.4 million in dead money without any cap savings, the team might view it as a necessary step to move forward. Payton could decide that parting ways with Wilson, despite the financial consequences, is the best long-term decision for the franchise. The decision to move on from a high-profile quarterback would undoubtedly dominate headlines during the NFL offseason of 2024.
3. Las Vegas Raiders Trade Davante Adams
When the Las Vegas Raiders acquired Davante Adams during the 2022 NFL offseason, it seemed like a perfect match. Adams reunited with his college teammate Derek Carr and provided the Raiders with a premier wide receiver. However, the team’s decision to release Carr and replace him with Jimmy Garoppolo has led to turmoil.
Adams has expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the organization, and a disappointing 2023 season could prompt the Raiders to explore a trade. Moving Adams would save the team up to $17.5 million in cap space for 2024. Given his elite talent, Adams would be a sought-after asset, and a trade involving him would be one of the most talked-about events of the NFL offseason of 2024.
Other Storylines to Watch
Beyond these three major scenarios, the 2024 NFL offseason promises additional intrigue:
- Free Agent Frenzy: High-profile players hitting the open market could lead to bidding wars among teams looking to bolster their rosters.
- Coaching Changes: Struggling franchises may overhaul their coaching staffs, seeking fresh leadership for the 2024 season.
- Draft Day Trades: Teams could make bold moves during the 2024 NFL Draft, trading picks and players to reshape their futures.
The Economic and Strategic Impact of the Offseason
The NFL offseason of 2024 will have ripple effects beyond the field. Player trades, free agency signings, and coaching changes can influence ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and fan engagement. Teams that make bold moves may energize their fan bases, while others could face criticism for perceived missteps. The financial and strategic decisions made during this period will shape the league’s competitive landscape for years to come.
