The 2024-25 NFL season is poised for dynamic shifts and heightened competition, particularly within the NFC South. This offseason’s flurry of activity has already set the stage for a captivating year, highlighted by the Atlanta Falcons’ acquisition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins.
This strategic move has positioned the Falcons as strong contenders to clinch the division title.
Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, last season’s division champions, aim for a fourth consecutive top finish.
The New Orleans Saints are looking to rebound from a disappointing 2023-24 season, and the Carolina Panthers are undertaking significant changes after a challenging 2-15 season, their worst since 2010.
With these developments in mind, let’s delve into each team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
Atlanta Falcons in 2024
While the Falcons are favoured to win the NFC South in the 2024 season, their success hinges on several key factors. The acquisition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins provides immediate stability and leadership to an offense already boasting talents like wide receiver Drake London, running back Bijan Robinson, and tight end Kyle Pitts. Cousins’ health will be crucial, as he is coming off a season-ending Achilles injury. If he returns to form, the team’s offensive potential is significant.
Raheem Morris’s hiring as head coach also introduces a new strategic vision, which could be vital for the Falcons’ playoff aspirations.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2024
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the 2024 season with high expectations following their third straight NFC South division title. Retaining key offensive players like quarterback Baker Mayfield and wide receiver Mike Evans ensures continuity and stability. Hiring Liam Coen as offensive coordinator, who previously worked successfully with Mayfield, should help maintain, if not enhance, their offensive productivity.
However, the departure of defensive stalwarts Carlton Davis and Devin White raises concerns about their ability to remain dominant on defense. Their replacements—veterans like Lavonte David, Greg Gaines, Jordan Whitehead, and Randy Gregory—along with the extension of All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr., should mitigate some of that loss.
New Orleans Saints in 2024
Entering the 2024 season, the New Orleans Saints face a somewhat optimistic yet cautious outlook. With the third-easiest schedule based on opponent win totals, the Saints possess a favorable pathway to improve upon last season.
Derek Carr remains at the helm, aiming to build upon his chemistry with key offensive players Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave. Together, they accounted for a 44.2% target share last year. The potential expansion of Kendre Miller’s role as a second-year back adds another dimension to the offense.
Defensively, retaining veterans Demario Davis and Tyrann Mathieu provide stability, while the addition of Chase Young injects fresh energy into their pass rush. Young, who tallied 7.5 sacks last season, could bolster a unit that struggled at times.
Carolina Panthers in 2024
The Carolina Panthers strive for a turnaround in the 2024 season after a tumultuous 2023-24 campaign. Despite the struggles of rookie quarterback Bryce Young, who recorded a dismal -0.31 expected points added per dropback, the team has made strategic moves to bolster his supporting cast.
The acquisitions of Diontae Johnson and rookie first-round pick Xavier Legette promise to invigorate the passing game, providing Young with reliable targets. Defensively, the Panthers faced significant losses, including Brian Burns and Donte Jackson, but have made key signings, such as Jadeveon Clowney and Jordan Fuller, to fill these gaps.
The Bottom Line
The NFC South promises a fiercely contested division in the 2024-25 NFL season, as each team showcases unique strengths and weaknesses.
Kirk Cousins and head coach Raheem Morris will lead the Atlanta Falcons in their push for the division title.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers remain top contenders but face challenges on defense after key departures.
The New Orleans Saints have the potential for significant improvement, while the Carolina Panthers look to rebound and develop their young quarterback.
Ultimately, the NFC South’s winner will be determined by talent, strategy, and execution. The NFL odds for the 2024/2025 season are already out on FanDuel, and it will be exciting to see which team emerges victorious in this highly competitive division.