Top 2014 NFL Draft Need for Every AFC Team
By Erik Lambert
Dec 22, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive back Nickell Robey (37) sacks Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Buffalo beats Miami 19-0. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Buffalo Bills – Top need: Wide Receiver
It’s somewhat difficult to pinpoint the biggest need for the Buffalo Bills. They seem like a team that has talent at every position but just not enough of it. One area that could use more help is wide receiver, particularly in the size department.
Miami Dolphins – Top need: Offensive Line
It doesn’t matter if it’s a guard or a tackle. The Miami Dolphins need offensive line help however they can get it. Richie Incognito is gone as is Jonathan Martin. Filling those gaps has to take priority if they want to keep Ryan Tannehill alive.
New England Patriots – Top need: Defensive Tackle
The loss of Vince Wilfork was perhaps the most impactful for the New England Patriots because their run defense hasn’t been the same without him. So adding some young defensive tackles to the mix would certainly make things easier.
New York Jets – Top need: Wide Receiver
Mark Sanchez had his greatest success when he had a solid receiving corps for the New York Jets. Geno Smith has not had that luxury. Whether Rex Ryan is canned or not, Gang Green has to give their young quarterback more weapons.
Baltimore Ravens – Top need: Wide Receiver
Losing Anquan Boldin turned out to be far harder to overcome that first realized for Joe Flacco and the Baltimore Ravens. A lack of playmakers at wide receiver has put them in position to miss the playoffs for the first time since 2008.
Cincinnati Bengals – Top need: Safety
There is talent across the roster both in terms of players and coaches. That is why the Cincinnati Bengals are making another trip to the playoffs. That being said, their secondary has taken some hits and they still have no difference-maker at safety.
Cleveland Browns – Top need: Quarterback
Three different players have started at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns in 2013. That should tell somebody everything they need to know about the 2014 NFL draft intentions for the franchise.
Pittsburgh Steelers – Top need: Cornerback
Too much age and a lack of young talent is seriously hurting the Pittsburgh Steelers defense. Ike Taylor can’t be expected to carry the load anymore. They need more help at cornerback, and the 2014 class is reportedly quite deep.
Houston Texans – Top need: Quarterback
They have the first overall pick, so they can take any player at any position they want. Since three different names have donned the starting quarterback job, it’s really hard seeing them go in a different direction.
Indianapolis Colts – Top need: Offensive Guard
Andrew Luck has taken his share of hits this season. On top of that the Indianapolis Colts have often struggled to run the football. That is typically a problem with interior blocking, so adding help at guard would be a nice, safe maneuver.
Jacksonville Jaguars – Top need: Quarterback
Chad Henne? Blaine Gabbert? These guys are not franchise quarterbacks. Henne has done enough to win some games for the Jacksonville Jaguars, but they cannot afford to pass up taking a talented young arm in the draft.
Tennessee Titans – Top need: Quarterback
Let’s face facts. The Tennessee Titans had a good enough roster to make the playoffs but the second Jake Locker reverted to his inefficient and then injured self, things went south. They need a legitimate quarterback.
Denver Broncos – Top need: Defensive End
Von Miller is done with a torn ACL and the Denver Broncos still don’t have anybody to replace him. Their pass rush isn’t the greatest, and though they seem to spend a lot of high draft picks on defensive linemen, it doesn’t decrease their need for another rusher.
Kansas City Chiefs – Top need: Wide Receiver
Jamaal Charles is the focal point of the Kansas City Chiefs offense, but in order to go from good to great they need more weapons on the outside for Alex Smith. That makes wide receiver high on the list.
Oakland Raiders – Top need: Quarterback
Terrelle Pryor and Matt McGloin have had their moments in 2013 but neither can solve the issues ailing the Oakland Raiders. Perhaps it’s better to start fresh with a legitimate high draft pick at the key position in the league.
San Diego Chargers – Top need: Cornerback
Philip Rivers has revived his career and the San Diego Chargers offense. The defense meanwhile has made strides but they still need help with their pass coverage. Drafting a solid cover corner could do wonders for that problem.