As every season begins, a fresh group of players faces critical moments in their careers, driven by various factors including age, contracts, injuries, and performance issues. Wide receiver Calvin Ridley exemplifies someone seizing the opportunity to prove himself. After a one-year suspension in 2022 for violating the NFL’s gambling policy, Ridley returned with a strong performance in 2023, recording 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Following a trade during his suspension, he secured a lucrative four-year contract worth $92 million with the Tennessee Titans as an unrestricted free agent in March.
Looking ahead to the 2024 NFL season, here are ten offensive players (excluding quarterbacks) to watch closely:
Stefon Diggs (WR, Houston Texans) saw his performance dwindle last season, where he caught 49 passes for 620 yards and five touchdowns in Buffalo’s first six games but failed to reach 100 receiving yards in the last 11 games, including the playoffs. Diggs was traded to the Texans, with a revamped contract that increased his 2024 salary to $22.52 million. If he doesn’t return to form, he may face challenges in free agency next year.
Nick Chubb (RB, Cleveland Browns), who was once in the conversation for the best running back title, suffered a severe left knee injury early in the 2023 season, resulting in surgeries. The Browns retained him on a restructured deal worth a guaranteed $2.05 million, with potential incentives based on performance. Chubb will begin the season on the reserve/physically unable to perform list, missing at least the first four games.
Tee Higgins (WR, Cincinnati Bengals) struggled with injuries last season, limiting him to 12 games and 42 receptions for 656 yards. The Bengals designated him as a franchise player, and with trade requests being discussed, this could impact his future, especially as he navigates a potential last season in Cincinnati.
Ronnie Stanley (OT, Baltimore Ravens) was regarded as one of the top offensive tackles but has been plagued by injuries since signing a lucrative extension. After a difficult 2023, he took a pay cut for the upcoming season but has the potential to regain his prime performance level and secure a new big contract.
Kyle Pitts (TE, Atlanta Falcons) burst onto the scene as a rookie with over 1,000 receiving yards but has been underutilized in recent seasons. With a new head coach expressing excitement for his role, this could be an important year for Pitts, especially with a guaranteed fifth-year option set for 2025.
Marquise Brown (WR, Kansas City Chiefs) had a rough season with the Cardinals and is now positioned in Kansas City’s revamped receiving corps. A shoulder injury could sideline him at the start of the season, but if he can connect with quarterback Patrick Mahomes, he may find increased financial success amidst the rising receiver market.
Najee Harris (RB, Pittsburgh Steelers) has consistently rushed for over 1,000 yards in his first three NFL seasons despite relatively low efficiency. With the Steelers not picking up his fifth-year option, a strong 2024 could lead him to surpass the recent extension Rhamondre Stevenson received from the Patriots.
Jawaan Taylor (OT, Kansas City Chiefs) was surprisingly signed for a significant contract, now facing pressure after leading the league in penalties last season. With financially guaranteed money in 2025, the Chiefs will need a turnaround in his performance to avoid potential trade complications.
Jameson Williams (WR, Detroit Lions) has endured challenges due to an ACL injury and a suspension. With a recent opportunity opening up after a teammate’s departure, Williams needs to step up to justify a potential fifth-year option exercise.
Treylon Burks (WR, Tennessee Titans) has struggled to meet expectations as a first-round pick. With competition heightening in the Titans’ receiving corps, he must prove his worth to earn a fourth season in Tennessee, as past draft picks seem to be under scrutiny.