NFL Free Agency is akin to a springtime holiday, where every move and acquisition feels like unwrapping presents beneath a Christmas tree for fans. With that said, the AFC North’s offseason activity resembles a bustling household with an abundance of gifts. Let’s take an early peek and assess each team’s standing ahead of the upcoming season.
4th) Cincinnati Bengals
Photo Cred: SI
The Bengals are currently more akin to distressed cats than roaring tigers. Not only is their franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, sidelined with a significant injury, but they’ve also faced setbacks with the loss of key players like running back Joe Mixon and potentially Tee Higgins, their star wide receiver. With these critical pieces absent and uncertainties surrounding Burrow’s recovery, significant gaps need addressing, particularly in a competitive division like the AFC North. Despite making some moves in the offseason to fill these voids, including signings like Zack Moss and Sheldon Rankins, Cincinnati faces an uphill battle. While they’re loading up with a solid team, Burrow’s setback places them at the bottom of the divisional rankings.
3rd) Pittsburgh Steelers
Photo Cred: USA Today
In the realm of certainties — death, taxes, and a Mike Tomlin-led Steelers squad boasting an above .500 record. Despite enduring a season without elite quarterback play, the Steelers managed to navigate through tough matchups, keeping themselves afloat. This offseason marked a significant overhaul in Pittsburgh’s quarterback situation, bidding farewell to their previous quarterbacks and ushering in big names like Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Offensively, the additions of George Pickens, Najee Harris, and Jaylen Warren inject excitement, promising a dynamic offensive presence. While there were minor hiccups, such as the trade of Diontae Johnson, the Steelers seem poised for a strong showing in the upcoming season.
2nd) Cleveland Browns
Photo Cred: SI
The Dawg Pound is roaring back, armed and ready not just for divisional battles but for league dominance. Despite setbacks like the injury to Deshaun Watson and Nick Chubb, the Browns have displayed resilience, clinching playoff berths amidst adversity. With Joe Flacco’s impressive comeback and acquisitions like Jerry Jeudy, the Browns’ offensive arsenal is formidable. Coupled with defensive prowess led by Myles Garrett, the Browns boast a well-rounded team. With the anticipation of Watson’s return and the addition of key offensive pieces, Cleveland is a force to be reckoned with in the AFC North.
1st) Baltimore Ravens
As the reigning AFC North champions and home to the NFL’s Most Valuable Player, the Ravens are primed for another stellar season. Despite a bittersweet end to the 2023 season, the Ravens boast an impressive record and have made significant roster moves in the offseason. Led by Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ offense dominated in rushing yards, with the addition of Zay Flowers providing an extra dimension to their aerial attack.
The acquisition of Derrick Henry adds unparalleled strength to an already potent rushing game, setting the stage for greatness. Defensively, despite losing Patrick Queen, the Ravens remain formidable, boasting top-tier talents like Roequan Smith and Marlon Humphrey. The Ravens, with their potent combination of offensive firepower and defensive prowess, are poised to set the tone not only in the AFC North but across the entire league with the dawn of the Lamar Jackson-Derrick Henry era.
