We should always start sorting through the team’s offseason needs as soon as possible. (We’re focusing on you in particular, QB-dependent New England Patriots.) Based on research by Yardbarker NFL writers, each AFC team should target one of these 2024 free agents.
East of the AFC
Bills | Buffalo | Safety Xavier McKinney: With Buffalo’s starting safety, Micah Hyde, 33, coming up next season and a history of alarming neck issues in the previous three years, a younger free safety should be pursued. According to Pro Football Reference, McKinney, who plays defense for the New York Giants, wears multiple hats. He has already recorded a career-high 94 tackles and his lowest quarterback rating allowed since his six-game rookie season (66.8).
Miami Dolphins | Center Lloyd Cushenberry III: Following Connor Williams’ season-ending Achilles injury in Week 14, the team might be less eager to re-sign the starting center and upcoming free agent. Cushenberry of Denver would be a great substitute. Cushenberry, ranked ninth overall by PFF’s grading system (73.2), hasn’t given up a sack and has only given up nine pressures on 519 pass-blocking snaps this season.
NFL | Wide Receiver Mike Evans: After failing to sign Evans around the trade deadline, New York ought to try again for the future Hall of Famer, especially in light of Allen Lazard’s $44 million, four-year contract’s lackluster first results. Even though Baker Mayfield replaced Tom Brady as the quarterback in Tampa Bay, Evans has surpassed 1,000 yards
QB Kirk Cousins of the New England Patriots: While the Patriots might take care of their quarterback situation in the April draft, it might be alluring to acquire Cousins, who had the second-highest passing average (291.4) prior to tearing his Achilles tendon. A more successful rebuild may be achieved by signing 12-year veteran Kirk Cousins, selecting Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., and selecting a developing quarterback in the draft. This is because the Patriots lack the tools to support a rookie quarterback. — Colum Dell
Denver Broncos of the AFC West | TE Dalton Schultz: How durable is a second-year TE? It’s troubling that Greg Dulcich has missed 12 games due to hamstring and foot problems. In his 12 games with the Texans, Schultz has 44 grabs for 513 yards and five touchdown catches. He would provide a much-needed punch
Mike Evans, wide receiver, Kansas City Chiefs The Chiefs have no choice but to make this move. Evans would strengthen an inconsistent receiving group and flourish with a top quarterback like Patrick Mahomes at Tampa Bay. Evans is second in the league in receiving touchdowns (11 in 15 games).
DT Justin Madubuike of the Las Vegas Raiders: No Raider has produced more than four sacks, with the exception of standout DE Maxx Crosby (13.5 sacks in 14 games). With a career-high 12 sacks in 14 games with the Ravens, Madubuike would provide Crosby with the much-needed assistance.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS | CB Jaylon Johnson: With 261.4 passing yards allowed, the Chargers are ranked 30th in the NFL. Johnson of Chicago recently received the highest pass-coverage grade of 91.5 from PFF,
