NFL 2022: Every NFC team’s biggest need and free agent fix
4. Los Angeles Rams: Linebacker
It’s been quite a run for head coach Sean McVay. The defending NFL champion Rams have posted five consecutive winning seasons, reached the playoffs four times, and split a pair of Super Bowl appearances under his guidance.
While quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Cooper Kupp garnered plenty of headlines, the Rams’ defense was a bit inconsistent. Could the organization bring back a performer who began his career with the club?
Sign: LB Cory Littleton (If released by Las Vegas Raiders)
3. Dallas Cowboys: Offensive Line
No team in the league scored more points this past season. And with the help of defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s unit, the Cowboys led the NFL with 34 takeaways. But the NFC East champions fell short at home vs. the 49ers in the wild card round.
There’s still some talented performers on the offensive line but this group has not performed up to expectations in recent years. Adding a solid eight-year veteran could provide a boost.
Sign: G Andrew Norwell (Jacksonville Jaguars)
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cornerback
In case you were wondering who the starting quarterback for Bruce Arians’ team would be this fall, wonder no more. Tom Brady, who announced his retirement earlier this year, unretired just before the start of free agency.
This past season, the Bucs failed to repeat as Super Bowl champions and there were various reasons why. Todd Bowles’ defensive unit finished 21st in the NFL in passing yards allowed and could lose cornerback Carlton Davis.
Sign: CB Kyle Fuller (Denver Broncos)
1. Green Bay Packers: Defensive Line
Four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers is returning for his 18th NFL season. He and the Packers look to make amends for a second straight home playoff loss, the latest at the hands (and helmets) of the San Francisco 49ers.
But if the team is to get back to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2010, there must be more consistent contributions from the defense. In recent years, this unit has been pushed around by the league’s more physical offensive lines.