2024 NFL Draft: what does each team in the NFC West division need? Projected picks

Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals have experienced some turbulent times lately at the organization, with notable player departures and new acquisitions. Wide receivers Marcus Brown and Rondale Moore and offensive lineman DJ Humphries are no longer part of the team. However, the Cardinals have made some moves in free agency to fill the gaps left behind. They acquired quarterback Desmond Ritter in a trade with the Atlanta Falcons to add depth and competition to the QB position. Additionally, they secured defensive tackle Justin Jones and linebacker Mark Wilson on three-year deals. Quarterback Sean Murphy-Bunting also signed a three-year deal, strengthening the team’s defensive depth.

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Overall, these signings represent some solid additions to the Cardinals’ roster. However, the team hasn’t made significant moves this offseason, which leaves fans curious about their draft strategy. Last season, the Cardinals ranked 26th in passing offense and fourth in rushing offense. With a healthy Kyler Murray expected next season, there’s optimism for improvement, particularly in the passing game. On defense, the Cardinals struggled last season, ranking 13th against the pass but dead last against the run. Improving their rushing defense will be a priority heading into the draft.

Considering their needs, the Cardinals are expected to target cornerback, running back, wide receiver, and interior offensive lineman in the 2024 draft. Addressing these areas will be compulsory for the team to comPete at a high level next season.

Los Angeles Rams

This draft holds particular significance for the Rams, as it marks the first time since 2016 that they have a first-round pick, so they are preparing for the upcoming season with important personnel changes, as several key players are no longer with the team. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald, a longtime future Hall of Famer, announced his retirement, leaving a void in the defense. Additionally, safety Jordan Fuller and Joe John Johnson were not retained, and linebacker Troy Reeder and defensive lineman Joe Williams were also let go. However, during the free agency period, the Rams made notable signings to bolster their roster, including offensive guard Kevin Dotson, who re-signed with the team on a three-year deal, providing stability on the offensive line. They also added offensive guard Noah Jackson and secured cornerbacks Darius Williams and Tre’Davious White, the latter on a one-year deal. Safety Keanu Neal joined on a two-year contract, while quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo signed a one-year deal, adding depth to the roster.

Last season, the Rams ranked ninth in total passing offense and 11th in rushing offense, a testament to head coach Sean McVay’s ability to keep the offense competitive, especially with quarterback Matthew Stafford leading the charge. Defensively, the Rams were 20th against the pass and 12th against the run. However, they face a challenge with the departure of defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, now the Atlanta Falcons’s head coach. How the defense will perform under new leadership remains to be seen, especially without their anchor, Aaron Donald.

Heading into the draft, the Rams will focus on addressing key positions, including defensive tackle and edge rusher, to fill the void left by Donald’s retirement. They may also target cornerback, offensive tackle, and possibly a kicker due to past kicking problems. This draft holds particular significance for the Rams, as it marks the first time since 2016 that they have a first-round pick.

San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers have let go of several key players this offseason, including quarterback Sam Darnold, edge rushers Clint Freeney, Chase Young, and Randy Gregory, defensive linemen Eric Armstead and Javon Kinlaw, and safety Tashan Gibson. Nevertheless, the 49ers have also made moves during free agency to strengthen their roster. They signed quarterback Josh Dobbs to a one-year deal, providing depth to the quarterback position. Edge rusher Leonard Floyd joined the team on a two-year deal, while linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, previously with the Green Bay Packers, signed with the team, adding strength to their linebacker corps.

Last season, the 49ers had a strong offense, ranking fourth in passing and third in rushing. With weapons like Brock Purdy and a solid offensive line, they are expected to maintain their offensive prowess in the upcoming season. Defensively, the 49ers were also solid, ranking 14th against the pass and third against the rush. Adding key pieces in free agency is expected to enhance their defense further, potentially making them even more formidable than last year.

In the draft, the 49ers will target several positions to address their needs, including cornerback, offensive tackle, interior offensive lineman, wide receiver, and linebacker. While the draft has good options at wide receiver, the team may focus more on reinforcing its offensive line in the early rounds.

Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks were very active during the 2024 offseason. After finishing last in their division, the team had to release several important players, such as Bobby Wagner, Drew Lock, Rashaad Penny, Jordan Brooks, Devin Bush, Jamal Adams, and Quandre Diggs. On the other hand, the Seahawks have also made some acquisitions during free agency to strengthen their lineup. They have re-signed tight end Noah Fant for two years and traded for defensive end Leonard Williams on a three-year deal. Furthermore, they have also added defensive tackle Jonathan Hankins to their team to improve their rushing defense. To replace the departing safeties, the team signed Jan Jenkins, acquiring Jerome Baker and Sam Howell via trade from the Washington CoMMAnders.

Last season, the Seahawks had a decent passing offense, ranking 13th, but their rushing game was disappointing, ranking only 28th. Improving their rushing offense will be a top priority for the upcoming season. Defensively, the team ranked 21st against the pass and a worrying 31st against the rush, indicating significant room for improvement on that side of the ball.

As they head into the draft, the Seahawks will focus on addressing key offense and defense needs. Their primary areas of concern include defensive tackle, linebacker, and edge rusher to strengthen their defense. They will be looking to add depth at interior offensive linemen and tight end positions on offense.