The 2024 NFL season is rapidly approaching, leaving fans and analysts speculating which playoff teams from the previous year might falter. With free agency and the draft concluded, the rosters are largely set, providing a clearer picture of the competitive landscape. This analysis delves into three teams that reached the playoffs in 2023 but face significant challenges in securing a return trip in 2024.
The Buffalo Bills’ Uncertain Future
Despite Josh Allen’s exceptional talent at quarterback, the Buffalo Bills have endured substantial roster losses that raise concerns about their playoff prospects. The departure of star wide receiver Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans, coupled with the loss of Gabe Davis to the Jacksonville Jaguars, significantly weakens the Bills’ offensive firepower.
While the Bills attempted to address these losses by signing Curtis Samuel and drafting Keon Coleman, replacing Diggs and Davis’ production will be a daunting task. Furthermore, salary cap constraints limited Buffalo’s ability to make impactful additions in free agency. Although the AFC East appears winnable, the improved New York Jets and the consistently competitive Miami Dolphins pose formidable challenges. Considering the Bills’ 6-6 record midway through last season, their late-season surge might not be sustainable in 2024. A nine-win season seems plausible, but that might not suffice in the highly competitive AFC.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Question Marks Remain
The Pittsburgh Steelers addressed their quarterback woes by acquiring Russell Wilson, a significant upgrade over Kenny Pickett. However, significant questions linger regarding their overall competitiveness. Despite ranking 25th in offense and 21st in defense, the Steelers managed to reach the playoffs in 2023, suggesting a degree of luck.
The trade of wide receiver Diontae Johnson further depletes the Steelers’ receiving corps, leaving George Pickens as the primary target. The lack of proven receiving options raises concerns about Wilson’s ability to effectively lead the offense. While rookie Roman Wilson offers potential, relying on an unproven player is a risky proposition. Moreover, the Steelers benefited from Joe Burrow’s injury last season, which weakened the Cincinnati Bengals. A healthy Burrow, combined with the strength of the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns, could make the AFC North significantly more challenging for Pittsburgh in 2024.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Facing Stiff Competition
While the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are projected to win the NFC South again, their narrow 9-8 record and tiebreaker victory over the New Orleans Saints in 2023 raise concerns about their playoff sustainability. The Atlanta Falcons, strengthened by the addition of Kirk Cousins, and the consistently competitive Saints pose significant threats.
Although re-signing Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, and other key free agents provides continuity, the Buccaneers lacked the financial flexibility to make significant upgrades. Relying solely on internal improvement might not be sufficient to fend off the improved competition within the division. While Mayfield, Evans, and Chris Godwin form a potent offensive core, the Buccaneers’ overall roster lacks the depth and star power of other NFC contenders. Their success in 2024 hinges on continued development from young players like Trey Palmer and maintaining a high level of performance from their veteran core.
Conclusion
The upcoming NFL season promises intense competition, and several 2023 playoff teams face an uphill battle to return to the postseason. The Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, despite their prior success, must overcome significant challenges to secure a playoff berth in 2024. The evolving landscape of the NFL demands continuous improvement, and these teams’ ability to adapt will determine their fate in the upcoming season.
