We covered the AFC on Monday, so let's get into the NFC.
The contenders in the NFC all have newsworthy storylines to monitor this month, whether it's the Eagles having a new offensive coordinator, the 49ers navigating Brandon Aiyuk's discontent or the Packers looking to take the next step.
Let's get into it.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys
Can a young OL and thin RB depth chart put too much pressure on Dak Prescott?
With Tyler Guyton (Round 1) set to start at left tackle and Cooper Beebe (Round 3) likely handling the interior line duties, the Cowboys' offensive line will be very young and potentially inconsistent.
Additionally, the running back depth is a concern with Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle at the top, creating uncertainty about the run game’s reliability.
This situation could place significant pressure on Dak Prescott, potentially impacting his performance and the overall offense. — Chris Raybon
New York Giants
Who will step up at tight end after Darren Waller’s retirement?
With Waller retired, Daniel Bellinger is the current starting tight end, but he has yet to impress significantly. The Giants drafted Theo Johnson in the fourth round, and he brings athleticism but lacks experience and production.
Johnson’s ability to quickly adapt to the NFL will be critical for addressing the tight end position's impact on the offense. — Sean Koerner
Washington Commanders
Can Jayden Daniels be transformative for the Washington offense under Kliff Kingsbury?
Jayden Daniels’ success is crucial for the Commanders' offense.
If Daniels can meet expectations and perform well under Kingsbury's system, it could elevate the entire offense. His development and impact will be central to the team's success. — Chris Raybon
Philadelphia Eagles
How will the Eagles adjust the Tush Push with Jason Kelce’s retirement and a new OC?
The Tush Push has been a successful play for the Eagles, but with Kelce retiring and Kellen Moore as the new OC, adjustments will be necessary.
Experimenting with variations of the play or involving players like Saquon Barkley could help maintain its effectiveness and adapt to the changes. — Sean Koerner
NFC West
San Francisco 49ers
Will Brandon Aiyuk be traded, and if so, how will it affect the offense?
The possibility of trading Brandon Aiyuk raises questions about how the offense would adapt.
If he's traded, the 49ers will need to adjust their offensive strategy, and the performance of newly acquired or existing receivers like Ricky Pearsall will be critical in maintaining offensive effectiveness. — Chris Raybon
Seattle Seahawks
Can Jaxon Smith-Njigba break out this season?
JSN’s potential breakout depends on the health and performance of DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. If one of them misses time or JSN continues to develop, he could have a significant impact.
His career trajectory might follow a path similar to CeeDee Lamb, with a possible breakout in Year 3 or 4. — Sean Koerner
Los Angeles Rams
Can the defense hold up without Aaron Donald, or will it sink their playoff chances?
Aaron Donald’s absence is a significant loss for the Rams' defense. The defense was already below average last year, and without Donald, it may struggle further, potentially impacting the team's playoff chances.
However, with a strong offense led by Matthew Stafford and key receivers, the Rams might still be competitive. — Chris Raybon
Arizona Cardinals
How crucial is Paris Johnson’s transition back to left tackle for his development and the Cardinals’ O-line?
Paris Johnson’s move back to left tackle is important for his development and the stability of the Cardinals' offensive line.
His performance at LT will be a key factor in both his career growth and the overall effectiveness of the Cardinals' offense. — Sean Koerner
NFC South
New Orleans Saints
Can the Saints overcome their No. 32-ranked PFF OL?
The Saints' offensive line has struggled, ranking last in PFF’s rankings. With Klint Kubiak as the new offensive coordinator, the offense might see improvements through better play-calling and motion.
Derek Carr’s quick release and ability to manage pressure will be crucial in overcoming the line's deficiencies. — Chris Raybon
Carolina Panthers
Can Bryce Young bounce back with improved weapons under new HC Dave Canales?
Bryce Young's sophomore season will benefit from a better supporting cast, including Diontae Johnson, Xavier Legette and Jonathon Brooks.
His ability to leverage these new weapons and show improvement will be crucial for his development and the Panthers' success. — Sean Koerner
Atlanta Falcons
How explosive can the Falcons’ offense be with new OC Zac Robinson and Kirk Cousins at QB?
The Falcons have a strong skill position group with Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Kyle Pitts and more.
With Robinson as the new OC and Kirk Cousins recovering from an Achilles injury, the offense's explosiveness will depend on how well these elements come together and adapt to the new system. — Chris Raybon
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Can Baker Mayfield maintain his performance from last season without Dave Canales?
Baker Mayfield's ability to replicate his previous success will be under scrutiny, especially without Dave Canales.
The presence of Mike Evans and Chris Godwin should help, but Mayfield's performance will be key for his long-term perception and the Bucs' overall success. — Sean Koerner
NFC North
Green Bay Packers
Will the defense finally meet expectations with Jeff Hafley as DC?
The Packers defense has underperformed despite having above-average talent. Hafley’s arrival as DC could be a turning point, potentially improving the defense's performance.
If Hafley can unlock the unit's potential, the Packers could be a strong playoff contender. — Sean Koerner
Minnesota Vikings
How important is the battle for the No. 3 WR spot with TJ Hockenson's potential absence?
The competition for the No. 3 WR spot (Brandon Powell, Trent Sherfield and Jalen Nailor) is crucial, especially if TJ Hockenson misses time. The choice of the No. 3 WR will impact the passing game and overall offensive effectiveness. — Sean Koerner
Detroit Lions
Will the pass defense improve with the new cornerback additions?
The Lions have revamped their cornerback group with additions like Carlton Davis III, Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson.
Whether these changes will address the pass defense issues experienced last year remains to be seen, especially after previous attempts to improve the unit. — Chris Raybon
Chicago Bears
How will Caleb Williams perform with a strong supporting cast?
Caleb Williams’ success will be influenced by his ability to utilize his supporting cast, including wide receivers Rome Odunze and veteran Keenan Allen.
A strong performance from Williams will be critical for the Bears' future and their overall success. — Sean Koerner
