The NFL Draft is drawing ever closer with the annual selection of the best college football players set to take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on April 24-26. It is a critical time for all 32 NFL teams and the last significant chance to shape rosters ahead of the preseason training camps in July and August.
With that in mind, here is one key team need for every AFC franchise.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills (30th in Round 1) – Cornerback
The Bills need more bodies at this crucial position after trading away former first-round pick Kaiir Elam. They also need defensive tackle depth, but I wouldn't be upset with a receiver for Josh Allen.
Miami Dolphins (13th in Round 1) – Offensive Line
The Dolphins need to take a leaf out of the Philadelphia Eagles' book and get tougher on both lines. And that need is now even greater following the recent retirement of Pro Bowl tackle Terron Armstead.
New England Patriots (4th in Round 1) – Offensive Line
The offseason signings of Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins ease the pressure at receiver. Drake Maye operated behind one of the worst lines in football and Mike Vrabel will want to build a wall up front.
New York Jets (7th in Round 1) – Tight End
The Jets need a new right tackle and probably a second receiver to play alongside Garrett Wilson, but this team could also really use a reliable tight end to help new quarterback Justin Fields.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens (27th in Round 1) – Offensive Line
The Ravens re-signed offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley earlier this offseason, but they could use some additional help at guard. Cornerback could be another area addressed early in the Draft.
Cincinnati Bengals (17th in Round 1) – Edge Rusher
With more than 40 percent of their salary cap invested in three offensive superstars, the Draft must offer cheap defensive options. Edge rusher could be key if Trey Hendrickson does not get a new deal.
Cleveland Browns (2nd in Round 1) – Quarterback
They may think that spending a second overall pick on a quarterback in this class is too rich, but this absolutely remains the Browns' highest priority. Kenny Pickett is their alternative for 2025 right now.
Pittsburgh Steelers (21st in Round 1) – Quarterback
There has been no viable replacement found since Ben Roethlisberger retired three years ago and waiting on Aaron Rodgers is a short-term play at best. If not QB, a high-end running back is needed.
AFC South
Houston Texans (25th in Round 1) – Offensive Line
Houston sent star quarterback C.J. Stroud into a sophomore regression due to shocking offensive line play. The need up front is even greater following the trading away of tackle Laremy Tunsil.
Indianapolis Colts (14th in Round 1) – Tight End
The four tight ends on the Colts' roster combined for 39 catches in 2024! And not one of them had more than 14. This team is crying out for a playmaker and QB safety blanket at the tight end position.
Jacksonville Jaguars (5th in Round 1) – Defensive Tackle
The Jags were very poor against the run in 2024 and will want to shore up that interior with a difference-maker who can also rush the passer, complementing Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen.
Tennessee Titans (1st in Round 1) – Quarterback
The Will Levis experiment was over by the end of last September and it's a very poorly-kept secret that the Titans are going to take Miami quarterback Cam Ward first overall when the Draft begins.
AFC West
Denver Broncos (20th in Round 1) – Running Back
The Broncos already have an outstanding defense in place so building around QB Bo Nix is vital. Javonte Williams rushed for just 513 yards last season so the need for an elite runner is obvious.
Kansas City Chiefs (31st in Round 1) – Offensive Line
The last time Patrick Mahomes was bullied in a Super Bowl defeat, KC quickly fixed their line. Expect the same again and free agent tackle Jaylen Moore likely needs to be joined by another new face.
Las Vegas Raiders (6th in Round 1) – Running Back
Pete Carroll loves to run the football and Raheem Mostert is not going to be the lead dog in the backfield. If Ashton Jeanty is there at six, the Raiders will full-on sprint to the podium to call his name.
Los Angeles Chargers (22nd in Round 1) – Tight End or Wide Receiver
The Chargers are coming off a playoff season but not one in which they scored freely. They need much more in the passing game and that requires an early addition at tight end or receiver for Justin Herbert.
