NFL 2022: Every AFC team’s biggest need and free agent fix
12. Baltimore Ravens: Edge Rusher
After reaching the playoffs three consecutive seasons, John Harbaugh’s club opened 8-3 this past year. But injuries and inconsistency led to a season-ending six-game losing streak and the Ravens finished last in the AFC North.
Baltimore has a new defensive coordinator (Mike Macdonald) and hopes to have better luck when it comes to health in the secondary. The Ravens have lost their share of pass rushers in recent years and need to address that.
Sign: OLB Hasson Reddick (Carolina Panthers)
11. Cleveland Browns: Safety
Arguably the most disappointing team in the NFL in 2021, the Browns were looking to build off their first playoff appearance since 2002 and first postseason win since 1994. However, this was a club hampered by an injured quarterback and a defensive unit that was inconsistent.
Last offseason, Cleveland spent lots of money on defense and with mixed results. They could have a hole in the secondary and may fill it with a two-time Pro Bowl ball hawk.
Sign: S Quandre Diggs (Seattle Seahawks)
10. Los Angeles Chargers: Tight End
After ending 2020 with four consecutive wins, there were those who felt the Chargers may carry that momentum into this past season. But it was an erratic year for the team under first-time NFL head coach Brandon Staley and the Bolts’ season ended with an overtime loss to the Raiders in Week 18.
The club just orchestrated the trade to pick up pass-rusher Khalil Mack and has lots of salary cap room. But will GM Tom Telesco bring back Jared Cook?
Sign: T Blake Jarwin (Released by Dallas Cowboys)
9. Miami Dolphins: Linebacker
Just when it appeared that the franchise was turning the corner, head coach Brian Flores was dismissed after three seasons. The new sideline boss is former 49ers’ offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. And that could mean good things for young quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Defensive coordinator Josh Boyer returns and heads a unit that relies on takeaways. The Dolphins have some holes to fill at linebacker as their run defense was inconsistent at best.