Each NFL season presents players with pivotal moments where they must prove their worth for various reasons, including age, contract situations, injuries, subpar performance, or personal issues.
One notable case is wide receiver Calvin Ridley, who returned from a year-long suspension in 2022 due to the league’s gambling policy. Before his suspension, Ridley stepped away from football to prioritize his mental health during the 2021 season. In 2023, he thrived with the Jacksonville Jaguars after a trade during his suspension, recording 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. In March, Ridley signed a lucrative four-year, $92 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, averaging $23 million annually.
As we look ahead to the 2024 season, here are ten offensive players outside of the quarterback position to watch closely for their career trajectories.
Stefon Diggs, the wide receiver for the Houston Texans, had a mixed 2023 season. He started strong with 49 receptions for 620 yards and five touchdowns in the first six games but faded in the later stages without a 100-yard game in the final 11 games, including the playoffs. The Bills traded him to the Texans while restructuring his contract, which resulted in a raise for 2024. As he turns 31, Diggs faces pressure to return to his previous form.
Running back Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns was in discussions for the best running back label until a severe left knee injury sidelined him two games into the 2023 season. Chubb opted for a revised contract rather than risking being released, but he begins the season on the reserve/physically unable to perform list.
Wide receiver Tee Higgins from the Cincinnati Bengals is another key player to monitor. He struggled with injuries last season and saw a decline in his stats. The Bengals placed a franchise tag on him, worth $21.816 million, but Higgins requested a trade. With his production and contract situation, he remains in a critical position heading into free agency.
Ronnie Stanley, the offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens, was once an elite player but has faced injuries that have limited his performance. After taking a pay cut, he has an opportunity for a fresh start in 2024, where a strong comeback could lead him to another major contract.
Kyle Pitts, the tight end for the Atlanta Falcons, showcased immense potential as a rookie but has since been underutilized. With a new coaching approach, he may finally break out and solidify his role in the offense after the team picked up his fifth-year option.
Marquise Brown, now with the Kansas City Chiefs, had a disappointing season with the Cardinals. After signing a one-year deal, he faces recovery from a dislocated shoulder but has the chance to excel in a new offensive environment with quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris consistently surpasses 1,000 rushing yards each season, yet the team did not pick up his fifth-year option. An efficient season could secure him a better deal moving forward as he looks to match or surpass similar contracts in the league.
Orlando Brown’s departure opened doors for Jawaan Taylor, who signed a significant contract with the Chiefs. However, he faced challenges with penalties in 2023, placing him under scrutiny for staying with the team in the following seasons if he doesn’t improve.
Jameson Williams of the Detroit Lions, selected 12th overall in the 2022 draft, has faced setbacks due to injuries and a suspension. With a starting position opening up, he has a critical opportunity to showcase his abilities this season to secure his future with the team.
Finally, Treylon Burks, with the Tennessee Titans, needs to step up as he has struggled to fill the gap left by A.J. Brown. With new competition in the receiver corps, Burks must leverage any chance he gets to solidify his standing with the Titans.