Each NFL season brings new challenges for players, with many facing pivotal moments in their careers. Key factors include age, contract situations, injuries, subpar performances, and off-field issues.
Wide receiver Calvin Ridley is one player who has seized his opportunity. After serving a one-year suspension under the NFL’s gambling policy in 2022, he returned to the league. Prior to his suspension, Ridley took a break from football midway through the 2021 season to focus on his mental well-being. He thrived in 2023 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, tallying 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns following a trade during his suspension. Ridley secured a lucrative four-year, $92 million contract with the Tennessee Titans in March as a free agent.
Here are ten noteworthy offensive players, excluding quarterbacks, to watch in the 2024 season, each facing critical crossroads.
Stefon Diggs, the Houston Texans wide receiver, had a mixed 2023 season. He started strong with 49 receptions for 620 yards and five touchdowns in the first six games but struggled later, failing to hit 100 receiving yards in any of the final 11 games, including the playoffs where he managed just 73 yards over two games. Diggs was traded from the Buffalo Bills to the Texans, and his contract was restructured to better fit the new arrangement. As he approaches free agency in 2025, his performance this season is crucial.
Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns was a top running back until a serious knee injury sidelined him early in the 2023 season. After coming off a record-breaking year in 2022, Chubb faced a recovery period, but the Browns opted to retain him on a modified contract rather than releasing him. He is currently on the reserve/physically unable to perform list, with hopes to return by late September.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins dealt with injuries that limited his play in 2023, preventing him from reaching 1,000 receiving yards for a third consecutive season. As a franchise player for the Bengals, Higgins requested a trade amid speculation about his future with the team, particularly with another standout receiver, Ja’Marr Chase, expected to sign a lucrative extension.
Baltimore Ravens tackle Ronnie Stanley was a star offensive lineman after securing a major contract in 2020, but injuries hindered his performance in subsequent seasons. He received a pay cut for 2024 but has the potential for significant incentives if he can perform at a higher level.
Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts began his career strong but has been underutilized recently. With a new head coach expressing enthusiasm for his role in the offense, Pitts hopes to reclaim his early success as the team exercises his fifth-year option.
Marquise Brown joined the Kansas City Chiefs after a lackluster season, hoping to reconnect with quarterback Patrick Mahomes and improve his performance. However, an injury might delay his impact.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris consistently topped 1,000 rushing yards in his first three seasons but faces uncertainty as the team opted not to pick up his fifth-year option. Improved efficiency and production could position him for a more favorable contract.
Offensive lineman Jawaan Taylor of the Chiefs entered an elite contract bracket but faced scrutiny for penalty issues in 2023. With his contract fully guaranteed in 2025, his future in Kansas City could depend on improved performance.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams, who was a first-round pick, has had a rocky start to his career due to injury and suspension. With an opening on the roster following a teammate’s departure, this season is critical for him to prove his value.
Finally, Tennessee Titans wide receiver Treylon Burks has struggled to establish himself since being drafted. With the team acquiring veteran receivers, Burks faces competition for playing time, making his upcoming season pivotal for his future with the Titans.