Heading into the 2024 season, the AFC North promises to be a battleground of titans, each team poised to make significant strides towards hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. Renowned for its fierce competition and storied rivalries, this division stands on the brink of a historic season where all four teams could potentially clinch playoff berths—an unprecedented achievement in recent NFL history.
Baltimore Ravens: MVP Lamar Jackson Leads the Charge
Photo Cred: Matt York/AP
The Baltimore Ravens enter the season with Lamar Jackson at the helm, continuing to redefine quarterback play with his unmatched dual-threat ability. Jackson’s 2023 campaign was a showcase of his skills, amassing over 3,600 passing yards and 800 rushing yards. While the Ravens narrowly missed a Super Bowl appearance, Jackson’s leadership secured them a division title and the coveted #1 seed. For an offense that already excelled in executing read option plays, they have a chance to be a lot better in 2024.
Lamar’s rushing ability has spearheaded Ravens ground game for years, and it’s about to get even better. Over the offseason, Baltimore signed former Tennessee Titan, running back Derrick Henry to lead the running back room. Opposing linebackers will now have to deal with the power of Henry and the quickness of Lamar Jackson on the field at the same time.Adding Derrick Henry to their roster from the Titans strengthens an already formidable ground game, complementing Jackson’s electrifying speed and impeccable decision-making in the read-option offense. Despite changes in defensive personnel and coaching with Mike Macdonald’s departure, Baltimore remains poised to dominate by dictating game tempo through their dynamic offensive strategies.
Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow Returns to Full Strength
Photo Cred: AP News
After battling injuries in 2023, Joe Burrow returns to lead the Cincinnati Bengals with renewed vigor. With previous AFC Championship and Super Bowl appearances, Burrow’s experience and leadership are pivotal as the Bengals seek to reclaim the division crown. Supported by an emerging roster and bolstered by key offseason acquisitions, Burrow aims to guide the Bengals back into contention with an explosive offense and a revitalized defensive strategy.
With a full offseason of rest, Bengals fans hope a healthy Burrow will return the team back to where they left off in 2022.The last two seasons that Burrow was healthy, the Bengals had two AFC Championship game appearances and one Super Bowl appearance. If Burrow can put up his usual numbers and stay healthy throughout the season, then the Bengals can go from worst to first in the AFC North.
Cleveland Browns: Defensive Dominance and Offensive Potential
Photo Cred: USA Today
The Cleveland Browns emerge into the 2024 season with a reputation for defensive prowess, highlighted by Myles Garrett’s dominant performance leading the league’s top-ranked defense in various metrics such as total defense, passing defense, and third-down efficiency. The Browns ferocious front seven is led by the 2023 defensive player of the year, Myles Garrett. Last year he recorded 14 sacks and four forced fumbles. Despite quarterback challenges in the previous season, Coach Kevin Stefanski guided the Browns to an 11-6 record and a wildcard berth, underscoring their resilience.
For the Browns to advance further in 2024, their success hinges on rejuvenating their offense to complement the stellar defense that retains key playmakers. The resurgence of stars like Deshaun Watson and Nick Chubb will be critical in realizing Cleveland’s ambitions for postseason success. With one of the best defenses in the league, the viability of
quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Nick Chubb, both injured in 2023, will
determine how far the Browns will go in the AFC.
Pittsburgh Steelers: A Two-Pronged Quarterback Strategy
Photo Cred: Joe Sargent/Getty Images
In response to quarterback challenges last season, the Pittsburgh Steelers made bold moves to strengthen their roster. Following Kenny Pickett’s departure, the Steelers secured Russell Wilson, a seasoned Super Bowl champion known for his clutch performances, and Justin Fields, a promising young quarterback on a budget-friendly contract. Under the guidance of the experienced Mike Tomlin, the Steelers aim to return to AFC contention with their revamped quarterback lineup.
Blending veteran experience with emerging talent, Pittsburgh is poised to challenge their division rivals and stake their claim in the competitive AFC landscape. The insanity of both these signings is that the Steelers are paying under five million dollars this year for both quarterbacks combined. While Russell Wilson will make just under $40 million this year, the Steelers are only paying him $1.2 million because the Denver Broncos must cover the rest, which totals to $38 million. As for Fields, he is still on his rookie contract, and Pittsburgh only must pay him $3.2 million.
As each AFC North contender embarks on the 2024 season with distinct narratives and strategic enhancements, the stage is set for a fierce divisional showdown. With teams bolstering their rosters, refining their strategies, and leveraging key acquisitions, the battle for the division crown and beyond promises to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. Football fans can expect nothing short of electrifying performances, dramatic comebacks, and the relentless pursuit of football’s ultimate prize—the Lombardi Trophy.
