As the 2026 NFL season approaches, each NFC team is facing its own unique challenges and opportunities. In this article, I'll delve into the biggest remaining roster issues for these franchises, offering my insights and analysis on the potential impact these concerns could have on the upcoming campaign.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys: Cornerback Depth
The Cowboys have bolstered their defense at various levels, but the depth at cornerback is a cause for concern. DaRon Bland, an All-Pro in 2023, has missed a significant number of games recently, and the other cornerbacks on the roster have question marks. Free agent Cobie Durant is a solid coverage player but may struggle against the run. The Cowboys' susceptibility on the outside could be a critical issue if they don't find a reliable depth option.
New York Giants: Center
The Giants have made solid offseason moves, but the center position is a potential liability. John Michael Schmitz, the projected starter, struggled with pass protection and run blocking last season. His performance could be a weak link in John Harbaugh's new offensive scheme.
Philadelphia Eagles: Safety
The departure of Reed Blankenship leaves a void at safety. While Marcus Epps has starting experience, the Eagles' otherwise elite roster could be vulnerable at this position. Safety is a key area to watch for Philly.
Washington Commanders: Outside WR2
The Commanders have a solid receiver in Terry McLaurin, but the depth chart opposite him is a major issue. Treylon Burks has been underwhelming, and the other receivers are mostly complementary options. Jayden Daniels will need to make the most of limited resources at this position.
NFC North
Chicago Bears: Defensive Tackle
The interior defensive line, which struggled against the run last season, hasn't seen much improvement. The Bears replaced Andrew Billings with Neville Gallimore, but this move may not provide the necessary boost. In a competitive division, this could be a significant issue.
Detroit Lions: Secondary
The Lions' secondary has undergone significant changes, with key players facing injuries or legal issues. The current lineup at cornerback and safety is not particularly strong, and the loss of Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph would further weaken this unit. The secondary is a major area of concern for Detroit.
Green Bay Packers: Edge Rusher
Micah Parsons' knee injury and the lack of depth at edge rusher are potential problems for the Packers. Lukas Van Ness and Dani Dennis-Sutton haven't inspired much confidence, and the addition of Haason Reddick could be a smart move to provide a reliable rotation.
Minnesota Vikings: Tight End
T.J. Hockenson's recent decline in production and the lack of improvement at tight end could limit the Vikings' offensive ceiling. With a strong wide receiver trio, the absence of a reliable tight end could be a critical factor in their success.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons: Interior Defensive Line
The departure of David Onyemata and Ruke Orhorhoro leaves a void at defensive tackle. The Falcons have added some depth, but the loss of game-changing talent at this position could be a weak spot in an otherwise improving defense.
Carolina Panthers: Tight End
The Panthers' failure to add a pass-catching tight end for Bryce Young is a notable oversight. With Tommy Tremble and Ja'Tavion Sanders as the primary options, Young may struggle to find reliable targets.
New Orleans Saints: Wide Receiver Depth
While the Saints have a strong wide receiver duo in Jordyn Tyson and Chris Olave, their depth is a concern. Both Tyson and Olave have injury histories, and the lack of proven depth could make the offense inconsistent.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tight End
The Buccaneers' tight end group was the least productive in the NFL last season, and they haven't made significant upgrades. Baker Mayfield's tight end options are lacking, which could impact the offense's effectiveness.
NFC West
Arizona Cardinals: Quarterback
Jacoby Brissett's performance last season was adequate, but he's a journeyman, not a franchise quarterback. The Cardinals' lack of a reliable starter at this position could be a long-term issue.
Los Angeles Rams: Wide Receiver Depth
The Rams have an impressive roster, but the depth at wide receiver is a potential concern. Davante Adams' age and injury history, coupled with the lack of a reliable WR3, could impact the offense's consistency.
San Francisco 49ers: Center Field Safety
The departure of Talanoa Hufanga has left a hole at center field safety. The current options haven't stood out, and the 49ers may need to address this position further to ensure a solid secondary.
Seattle Seahawks: Wide Receiver
Despite the presence of Cooper Kupp and Rashid Shaheed, the Seahawks' wide receiver corps is not as strong as some may believe. Kupp's production dipped in the second half of 2025, and Shaheed hasn't found the end zone as a receiver with Seattle. The heavy reliance on Jaxon Smith-Njigba could be a potential weakness.
As we head into the 2026 NFL season, these roster issues will be critical to watch. Each team's ability to address these concerns could be the difference between a successful campaign and a disappointing season.
