Dallas Cowboys: Emphasizing Defense
Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY NETWORK
Heading into the 2024 NFL season, the Dallas Cowboys boast one of the league’s top defenses, having ranked among the top five in scoring last year. Micah Parsons led the charge with an impressive 14 sacks, while Daron Bland set an NFL record with five pick-sixes. Although the team lost some players in free agency, key defensive stalwarts return for the upcoming season. The departure of defensive coordinator Dan Quinn poses a significant question mark, but if the Cowboys can replicate their stout defensive performance from last season and maintain consistency in the playoffs, they have a strong chance at Super Bowl success.
New York Giants: Defensive Revamp
Photo Cred: SI
Following a disappointing 6-11 finish in 2023, the New York Giants are looking to bounce back with a revamped defense under new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, formerly with the Tennessee Titans. Despite their struggles, the Giants led the league in turnovers forced last season. The acquisition of OLB Brian Burns from the Carolina Panthers adds firepower to their defense. If Bowen can continue to build a unit that excels in takeaways and stopping the run, the Giants’ fate will largely depend on quarterback Daniel Jones’s performance in their pursuit of a championship.
Philadelphia Eagles: Barkley Boost
Photo Cred: USA Today
The Philadelphia Eagles aim to rebound after a late-season stumble in 2023, bolstered by their potent rushing attack which ranked in the top ten last year. The addition of RB Saquon Barkley, acquired from division rival New York Giants, promises to elevate their ground game significantly. Barkley’s proven ability to amass over 1,300 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in a single season provides a major upgrade. With Barkley in their backfield, the Eagles have their sights set on making a deep playoff run and potentially clinching the Lombardi Trophy.
Washington Commanders: Daniels’ Potential
Photo Cred: NFL
The Commanders finished 4-13 season in 2023, in 2024 they are banking on quarterback Jayden Daniels, their 2024 draft pick from LSU and winner of the 2023 Heisman Award. Daniels arrives with impressive college credentials, throwing for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns in his final collegiate season. With the departure of quarterback Sam Howell, Daniels represents a new era for the Commanders. If he can translate his college success to the professional level, Daniels has the potential to transform Washington into contenders for a Super Bowl title.
