5 hours ago
Injuries:
Key Backups: (T): Storm Norton, Tyler Vrabel (G): John Leglue, Kyle Hinton (C): Ryan Neuzil
Fantasy Impact: It's debatable whether guard is a position analytically responsible to invest in at the high end, but making Chris Lindstrom the highest paid at his position in the league at least kept high-end, homegrown talent in Atlanta. Kaleb McGary has also developed into one of the NFL's best RTs, giving the Falcons elite upside on that end. LT Jake Matthews remains solid but is another year older, while C remains a question. At LG, 2023 second-round pick Matthew Bergeron still has something to prove. High-end protection may be more necessity than luxury with new franchise quarterback Kirk Cousins recovering from an Achilles tear, and never having counted elusiveness among his top strengths. Rookie first-rounder Michael Penix is a better scrambler, but barring another injury to Cousins he doesn't project to suit up much Year 1.
Trending: Up
Injuries:
Key Backups: (T): Colby Sorsdal, Dan Skipper (G): Kayode Awosika, (C): Graham Glasgow
Fantasy Impact: Penei Sewell has come along as hoped since falling to the Lions at No. 7 overall in 2021, and the Lions finally proved in 2022 that if things mesh right, this is an O-line unit with No.1 upside. Injuries are the main factor for concern, as Detroit's depth along the offensive trench is somewhat questionable, but there's time to bolster those needs in the offseason. Issues with depth could be more crucial than ever in 2024, with Jonah Jackson holding down the fort at LG for the Rams rather than Lions.
Trending: Down
Injuries: Roderick Johnson (undisclosed)
Key Backups: (T): Fred Johnson, Jack Driskoll (G): Brett Toth (C):
Fantasy Impact: The Eagles' offensive decline down the stretch of the 2023 season had little to do with the O-line, which was still healthy and playing at a high level. That isn't guaranteed to remain consistent year-to-year anymore, though, with standout C Jason Kelce stepping away and into retirement, and Cam Jurgens now stepping into big shoes. RT Lane Johnson, heading into his age-34 season, is closer to the end than the beginning as well. Jalen Hurts' considerable athleticism will provide some cushion for any protection struggles that should arise, but all no longer looks perfectly steady on the offensive front.
Trending: Down
Injuries: Jedrick Wills (knee), Jack Conklin (knee - ACL), Drew Forbes (back), Dawson Deaton (knee - ACL)
Key Backups: (T): Leroy Watson (G): Drew Forbes (C): Nick Harris, Luke Wypler
Fantasy Impact: The Browns were built to lead with a strong O-line and elite rushing game, but season-ending injuries RT Jack Conklin and star RB Nick Chubb derailed that plan -- and losing Deshaun Watson to a shoulder fracture seems like the nail in this offense's coffin. An early playoff exit and some late-season Joe Flacco magic shouldn't overshadow the fact that with Watson in tow, this offense's future is somewhat murky. Even getting Chubb and the O-line back to full health for 2024, which aren't guaranteed outcomes, will leave some room for doubt about efficiency going forward. Coach Kevin Stefanski has proven his ability to manufacture production with minimal pieces, but Watson's contract situation and lackluster play can't be overlooked. He's regularly compromised otherwise solid protection and playcalling.
Trending: Up