**NFL Teams Shift Focus to 2024 Draft After Free Agency Frenzy**
With the bulk of NFL free agency transactions now in the rearview mirror, teams across the league are redirecting their attention to the upcoming 2024 draft. While a few notable players still linger on the open market, organizations are strategizing their next moves to address roster needs and bolster their squads for the upcoming season.
One team that made significant strides in shoring up their roster during free agency is the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals made a series of savvy acquisitions, including running back Zack Moss, tight end Mike Gesicki, defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins, and safety Geno Stone. These additions addressed some key areas of concern for the Bengals, but there are still lingering needs that must be addressed as they prepare for the draft.
Here are the three biggest needs for the Cincinnati Bengals as they head into the 2024 draft:
**1. Running Back:** The Bengals made headlines with the surprising trade of running back Joe Mixon to the Houston Texans this offseason. While the addition of Zack Moss provides a solid foundation, the Bengals must look to add depth and talent to their backfield. While there are veteran options available in free agency such as J.K. Dobbins, Ezekiel Elliott, and Kareem Hunt, the Bengals could also opt to target a running back in the draft to inject youth and versatility into their lineup.
**2. Cornerback:** Despite investing in cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and DJ Turner II in recent drafts, the Bengals find themselves thin at the cornerback position. While Taylor-Britt has shown promise, Turner II is still unproven, leaving the Bengals vulnerable in the secondary. Adding a seasoned veteran like Stephon Gilmore, Steven Nelson, or Xavien Howard in free agency could provide immediate help, but the Bengals may also look to the draft to bolster their cornerback depth.
**3. Wide Receiver:** The status of wide receiver Tee Higgins looms large as the Bengals approach the draft. While there have been rumors of a potential trade, head coach Zac Taylor has expressed confidence in Higgins’ role with the team. Nonetheless, with uncertainty surrounding Higgins and the potential departure of free agent Tyler Boyd, the Bengals could benefit from adding another dynamic playmaker to complement star receiver Ja’Marr Chase and provide support for quarterback Joe Burrow.
As the Bengals prepare to address these needs in the draft, the organization remains focused on building a championship-caliber team. While free agency provided an opportunity to address immediate roster concerns, the draft represents a chance to lay the groundwork for sustained success in the seasons to come.
In the fast-paced world of the NFL, teams must remain vigilant in their pursuit of talent and strategic in their decision-making. With the draft on the horizon, the Cincinnati Bengals and other organizations are poised to make bold moves as they strive to position themselves for success in the highly competitive landscape of professional football.
