The 2024 NFL season brings a wave of changes for several teams. With new coordinators, fresh strategies, and updated rosters, some offenses are bound to look dramatically different. In this article, we dive into five teams’ offensive overhauls and compare their potential effectiveness. Let’s see which team might have the edge this season.
Atlanta Falcons: Embracing More Receivers
The Atlanta Falcons under offensive coordinator Zac Robinson are expected to pivot towards a more receiver-heavy design. Historically, the Falcons preferred a run-centric strategy, which is evident from their low passing rates. With the team going out in free agency and getting veteran Kirk Cousins, plus investing a first-round draft pick in Michael Penix Jr., it’s clear the team wants to air it out more in the future.
Key Changes:
- Increased Passing Frequency: Transitioning from a run-heavy offense to one utilizing more receivers.
- Personnel Adjustments: More reliance on Drake London and Kyle Pitts.
- Formation Shifts: Moving from 12 personnel (two tight ends) to 11 personnel (three wide receivers).
Impact:
The shift should open up the field, facilitating better usage of playmakers like London and Pitts. However, the success of this change hinges on the team’s ability to execute under a more complex passing scheme. Will these adjustments result in a more dynamic Falcons offense or merely expose deeper inefficiencies?
Philadelphia Eagles: More Pre-Snap Movement
Kellen Moore is set to revolutionize the Philadelphia Eagles’ approach with an emphasis on pre-snap movement. Jalen Hurts claims that 95 percent of the offense will be new.
Key Changes:
- Enhanced Motion: From a low 23.2 percent to a potentially much higher rate.
- Receiver Position Flexibility: Allowing A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith more slot opportunities.
- Route Complexity: Incorporating routes that maximize yards after the catch.
Impact:
By increasing pre-snap movement, the Eagles can create mismatches and exploit defensive weaknesses.
This could be particularly beneficial for Jalen Hurts, facilitating easier reads and quicker decision-making. The challenge will be maintaining the high efficiency they showed last season while implementing such extensive changes.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Bigger and Stronger
The Pittsburgh Steelers, now under the guidance of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, are expected to focus on a stronger, more physically imposing style.
Key Changes:
- Heavier Personnel: Utilizing more tight ends and fullbacks.
- Enhanced Running Game: Leaning on Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris.
- Quarterback Options: Potentially Russell Wilson or Justin Fields.
Impact:
This approach could benefit the Steelers by creating a more balanced attack that leverages the strengths of their running backs. Improved offensive line play and effective use of tight ends like Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington could make the Steelers a formidable ground-and-pound team, freeing up the passing game for big plays.
Washington Commanders: Faster Tempo and No-Huddle Offense
Under new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, the Washington Commanders might adopt a faster-paced, no-huddle offense.
Key Changes:
- Tempo Increase: Faster play execution and quick snaps.
- Aggressive Playcalling: More deep shots and aggressive downfield plays.
- Balanced Attack: Mixing the run with a dynamic aerial assault.
Impact:
Speeding up the tempo can catch defenses off guard, allowing for easier exploitation of mismatches.
A faster pace combined with an aggressive play-calling approach may rejuvenate the Commanders’ offense, turning them into a high-scoring unit.
Seattle Seahawks: Explosive Passing and Air Raid Principles
Ryan Grubb’s influence on the Seattle Seahawks promises an explosive, vertically-oriented passing game.
Key Changes:
- Air Raid Concepts: Incorporating elements focused on stretching the field vertically.
- Targeting Strengths: Maximizing the potential of DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
- Quarterback Confidence: Empowering Geno Smith to take more deep shots.
Impact:
This modern approach could make the Seahawks one of the most exciting offenses to watch. By focusing on vertical routes and big plays, Seattle could exploit the speed and skill of their receivers. Success will depend on the consistency and accuracy of quarterback Geno Smith in executing Grubb’s high-octane offense.
Conclusion
Comparing these overhauled NFL offenses reveals distinct strategies and potential strengths. The Atlanta Falcons’ shift toward more receivers offers promise but comes with risks. The Philadelphia Eagles’ motion-heavy approach could unlock new dimensions for their star receivers. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ emphasis on physicality might create a balanced and punishing attack. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders’ tempo change could make them a formidable opponent. Lastly, the Seattle Seahawks’ air raid principles position them as an offensive juggernaut.
As we anticipate the 2024 season, it’s clear that each team has a compelling case for having the edge. Success will ultimately depend on execution, player adaptability, and how defenses respond. Keep an eye on these offenses as they redefine modern NFL play – and perhaps consider prop bets NFL enthusiasts might place on their outcomes this season.
