Every NFL Team's Biggest Need Ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft

April 18, 2026

Every NFL Team's Biggest Need Ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Read every team's NFL need ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft including positional and roster needs.

The 2026 NFL Draft is just days away, which means it's time to identify every NFL team's biggest need. While not all of these needs may be addressed in the draft, this is a great opportunity to improve the roster.

Last year, we saw several teams massively improve their roster, like the Giants finding their franchise QB in Jaxson Dart.

What are each team's biggest needs? Let's dive in!

Arizona Cardinals

Offensive Line

The Cardinals have many weak points on their rebuilding roster, but the offensive line stands as the most important ahead of the NFL Draft. During the 2025 season, the Cardinals surrendered the fifth-most sacks in the sport (59) and trailed the No. 2-No. 4 teams by just one sack. This led to many of their offensive struggles.

While they signed guard Isaac Seumalo in the offseason (who earned the 12th-highest Overall Grade on PFF among guards), they still need additional support on the outside and on the right-hand side of the line.

Atlanta Falcons

Quarterback

Even though the Atlanta Falcons addressed this position in free agency by signing former first-round pick Tua Tagovailoa, this remains a major weakness in their offense. Michael Penix Jr. has shown flashes of upside at times but has yet to fully develop into a full-time starting QB.

Given the talent on this roster, with Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts Sr. leading the offense and several high-end rookies on the defensive side of the ball, a stable QB should bring this team back to the postseason.

Baltimore Ravens

Secondary

The Ravens fell just short of the postseason in 2025 as Lamar Jackson dealt with numerous injuries. However, with Jackson set to enter training camp at full strength, the Ravens should look to bolster their defense to prepare them for another deep postseason run. Last season, their secondary struggled, allowing a hefty 247.9 passing yards per game.

While they have one of the game's top safeties in Kyle Hamilton, they could use additional depth at cornerback. In 2025, their No. 1 corner, Nate Wiggins, earned a low 63.8 Overall Grade, per PFF.

Buffalo Bills

Edge Rusher

The Buffalo Bills have fallen short of postseason expectations throughout all of Josh Allen's tenure. While their offense can score points at a high rate, they could use another spark plug on defense, especially on the defensive line. In 2025, the Bills tallied just 36 sacks, which placed them below average.

Much of their production came from Greg Rousseau. Rousseau led the way, tallying 7.0 sacks with 46 tackles. This was the third time over his last four seasons in which he tallied at least seven sacks in a season.

Carolina Panthers

Tight End

The Panthers were one of the most surprising teams during the 2025 campaign. They were able to claim the NFC South title and nearly upset the heavily favored Los Angeles Rams in the opening round. While Tetairoa McMillan looks like a budding star at the WR position, and No. 2 option Jalen Coker has shown flashes of brilliance, a reliable TE can take this offense to the next level.

During the 2025 campaign, the Panthers had minimal production at this position as Ja'Tavion Sanders caught just 29 passes for 190 yards and one touchdown.

Chicago Bears

Edge Rusher

The Bears took a massive step forward in 2025, not only claiming the NFC North title but also winning the Wild Card round. While their postseason run was cut short in the Divisional Round, they have a young team that could take another step forward in Ben Johnson's second year.

However, where they do need additional support is on the defensive line. Last season, the Bears tallied just 35 total sacks as a defensive unit, which was well below average.

Cincinnati Bengals

Offensive Line

While their defense has several areas of concern, particularly following the departure of Trey Hendrickson to their division rival, the Baltimore Ravens, another top option on the offensive line will keep this team in the playoff race. When Joe Burrow is on the field, the Bengals look like a potent Super Bowl contender. However, injury has limited him for most of his career.

Since 2023, the Bengals have allowed 48 or more sacks in two of the three campaigns. If Burrow can see stronger protection in the pocket, this team could make a legitimate run in the postseason.

Cleveland Browns

Quarterback

Even after drafting two QBs in the 2025 NFL Draft, this position remains a major need heading into the 2026 campaign. Currently, the Browns are slated to have Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel compete for the starting QB1 job during spring training. Watson did not see the field at all during the 2025 season, and both Sanders and Gabriel struggled in their respective debuts.

Sanders was given more opportunities but would average a low 157.8 passing yards per game with a 2:7 TD:INT over his final four games of the campaign.

Dallas Cowboys

Secondary

The Dallas Cowboys boast one of the most dominant offensive units in the sport. In 2025, Dak Prescott played at a near-MVP level as he had two of the game's top wide receivers, George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb, as the focal points of his passing attack. However, they were unable to reach the postseason due to their subpar defense.

In 2025, they achieved the highest PPG (30.1) with their struggles coming through the air. The Cowboys' secondary surrendered a league-high 251.7 passing yards per game. They are the only team in the league that allowed more than 250.0 passing yards per game.

Denver Broncos

Tight End

The Broncos are one of the teams on this list that does not have a glaring weakness. In the offseason, they acquired a legitimate WR2 in Jaylen Waddle and opted to re-sign veteran running back JK Dobbins. However, the component of their offense that did not provide much of a spark in 2025 was the TE position.

Leading up to the 2025 campaign, HC Sean Payton gave glowing remarks about Evan Engram. However, Engram would have a minimal role in this offense, catching just 50 passes for a low 461 yards and one touchdown.

Detroit Lions

Secondary

As expected, the Detroit offense lit up the scoreboard once again in 2025. Led by superstar running back Jahmyr Gibbs and wide receiver Amo-Ra St. Brown, the Lions averaged an elite 28.3 PPG. However, they missed the postseason due to inconsistent defensive play.

While they endured equal struggles in both the rushing and passing game, they should look to bolster their secondary in the upcoming NFL Draft. On defense, they allowed 24.3 PPG and a modest 217.4 passing yards per game. Their No. 1 defensive back, D.J. Reed, was limited to just 11 games. Adding more depth to their secondary should put them in a great spot to return to the playoffs in 2026.

Green Bay Packers

Wide Receiver

In free agency, the Packers opted to let Romeo Doubs walk as he signed a massive contract with the New England Patriots. This leaves just Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, and second-year wideouts without Matthew Golden as the primary wideouts on the roster. While both Watson and Reed have shown flashes at times, they have struggled to stay on the field.

Golden, a former first-round selection, had a very disappointing debut season, catching just 29 passes for a mere 361 yards with no scores in the regular season. In order for them to compete with the top teams in the NFC, they need another playmaker in the offense.

WHAT A TIME FOR MATTHEW GOLDEN'S FIRST TOUCHDOWN OF THE SEASON

GBvsCHI on Prime Video
Also streaming on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/s0j2j3XGKC

— NFL (@NFL) January 11, 2026

Houston Texans

Offensive Line

The Texans have one of the most complete rosters in the NFL. They boast the sport's top defense unit and a strong offense with a star wide receiver in Nic Collins, and a revamped running back room led by David Montgomery. As a result, their biggest "need" would be on the offensive line.

In 2025, Houston allowed 31 sacks, placing them above the average. However, in their postseason loss to the Patriots, C.J. Stroud struggled to find any footing as he was sacked three times. Adding depth in this position could provide Stroud with a much-needed boost.

Indianapolis Colts

Secondary

The Colts were off to a dominant start in 2025, looking like legitimate Super Bowl contenders. However, following Daniel Jones's injury, they had a disastrous second half, which resulted in them falling just short in the Wild Card race. Given that they opted to resign Jones, their biggest need is on the defensive side of the game.

In 2025, Indianapolis allowed a high 24.2 PPG, with most of their struggles coming through the air, surrendering the second-most passing yards per game, tying them with the Ravens at 247.9.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Edge Rusher

Like the Bears, the Jaguars took a massive step forward with a revamped coaching staff. Led by Liam Coen, the Jaguars took the AFC South crown and hosted a playoff game. While their postseason run was short, as they took a first-round exit to the Buffalo Bills, they appear to be trending in the right direction.

In 2025, their major weakness was the defensive line, particularly given their sack totals. Outside of Josh Hines-Allen, the Jaguars lack depth when looking at true pass rushers on the line, as they tallied a mere 32 total sacks as a team, the sixth-lowest in the NFL.

Kansas City Chiefs

Offensive Line

With Patrick Mahomes working his way back from a severe knee injury, adding more depth to their offensive line would not only keep this team's playoff window open but also protect their franchise QB. In 2025, the Chiefs fell short of their playoff bid and struggled to contain opposing edge rushers, allowing the 11th-most sacks in the league.

While they have one of the game's top centers in Creed Humphrey, rookie left tackle Josh Simmons missed nearly the entire second half due to injury, and their starting right tackle, Jaylon Moore, placed 56th out of the 89 graded tackles on PFF.

Las Vegas Raiders

Offensive Line

The Raiders already began making strides to improve this spot on their team by signing superstar center Tyler Linderbaum to a massive three-year deal worth up to $81 million. With the Ravens, Linderbaum placed fifth at the entire position in terms of PFF grade and was No. 4 overall pass blocker.

However, their line still needs help, as this team surrendered the most sacks in the league (64) in 2025. This weak production prevents rookie running back Ashton Jeanty from finding much sustained success, as he was under constant pressure. An improved line will lay the foundation for future QB1 Fernando Mendoza to become a leader of this franchise.

Los Angeles Chargers

Offensive Line

The Chargers have one of the most dominant offenses in the league on paper, but saw their depth tested during the 2025 season. The Chargers saw several starting options, such as Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, miss significant time. As a result, the Chargers struggled to protect Justin Herbert, who was sacked 60 times, tied for the second-most in the league.

While both Alt and Slater will be healthy to begin the season, the Chargers need to add additional depth at these positions to ensure this team is built for an extended playoff run.

Los Angeles Rams

Tight End

The Rams do not have many weaknesses on their roster as they have one of the top offensive and defensive units in 2025. However, while they received production from their tight end position, especially near the red zone, the Rams could use a more stable option at the position to compete for a Super Bowl in 2026.

Last season, Colby Parkinson found the back of the end zone eight times, but saw just 16.3 air yards per game. While Terrance Ferguson showed flashes in a deep threat role at this position, the Rams could use another spark to make their offense even more difficult to defend.

Miami Dolphins

Wide Receiver

The Dolphins were involved in one of the more prominent trades this offseason that saw Jaylen Waddle move to the Denver Broncos in exchange for a surplus of first-round picks. Waddle, a former first-round pick himself, has spent his entire career with the Dolphins and has emerged as one of the game's top options.

However, with Waddle (and Tyreek Hill) no longer on the roster, newly signed QB Malik Willis will have to rely on Jalen Tolbert and Malik Washington to catch passes in 2026.

Minnesota Vikings

Offensive Line

While the case could be made that they have a major need at QB, they did sign Kyler Murray in free agency in hopes of solving this problem. Instead, their offensive line will take the spot on this list. In 2025, JJ McCarthy did not have a productive NFL debut but did have the best procured, as they all allowed the second-most sacks in the sport.

While the left side of their line is strong with Christian Darrisaw at left tackle and the young Donovan Jackson at left guard, their right side needs additional help, as guard Will Fries was placed below average in terms of PFF grading.

New England Patriots

Wide Receiver

Even though the Patriots made a splash at this position in the offseason, signing Romeo Doubs to a four-year contract, they could still use more depth at this position. The Patriots parted ways with Stefon Diggs as well. While Doubs figures to slide into Diggs' role, there are not many consistent options outside him.

In 2025, Kayshon Boutte caught only 33 passes, and Mack Hollins brought in only 46. They have been linked to Philadelphia's A.J. Brown in trade discussions, which would take this offense to an entirely different level.

New Orleans Saints

Offensive Line

The Saints had a major need at running back, but they went out and signed Travis Etienne Jr. to one of the biggest contracts in the offseason. Instead, their offensive line will stand as the position of most need ahead of the NFL Draft. In 2025, the Saints surrendered 49 sacks, placing them in the top 10 in most sacks allowed.

They drafted Kelvin Banks Jr. in the opening round of the 2025 NFL Draft, who tuned in a solid debut season, earning a 73.3 Overall Grade on PFF, placing him 29th among tackles. However, targeting another high-end prospect on the line will put Tyer Shough in the best position to emerge as a franchise-caliber QB in his second season.

New York Giants

Wide Receiver

While their wide receiver room appeared to be solidified following the breakout seasons of Malik Nabers in 2024, he suffered a serious knee injury, which kept him on the shelf for most of 2025. Additionally, in free agency, the team opted not to re-sign Wan'Dale Robinson, who emerged as a legit high-end No. 2 WR in the league last season.

While they did bring in Darnell Mooney in free agency, the Giants lack depth at the position, especially if Nabers has a slow start to the season. With a potential franchise QB in Jaxson Dart under center, adding another high-end pass catcher to this team can push them into playoff contention.

New York Jets

Quarterback

The other team on this list that is in desperate need of a signal caller is the New York Jets. After the Justine Fields experience did not go as planned in 2025, they opted to bring back former Jet Geno Smith to operate as a bridge QB in 2026. Smith is signing off on one of the worst seasons of his career with the Raiders, when he posted a 19:17 TD:INT.

The team could look to draft a QB in the upcoming draft or opt to wait to find their long-term solution in the 2027 class.

Philadelphia Eagles

Linebacker

The Eagles do not have many weaknesses on paper. While they may need help at the WR position if they opt to trade A.J. Brown, for now, their weakness comes in shutting down the opposing rushing attacks. In 2025, the Eagles struggled to shut down opposing running backs, surrendering the 13th-most rushing yards per game.

While they have several high-end edge rushers like Jihaad Campbell and Jalen Carter, adding another high-end run-stopper could bring this defense back to a top-5 unit, as they were in 2024.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Quarterback

With the Aaron Rodgers situation still very unclear, Pittsburgh's biggest need entering the draft is still at quarterback. In his first season in Pittsburgh, the age-42 QB tallied 3,322 yards with 24 passing scores en route to leading them to an AFC North title. However, their postseason run would fall short in the Wild Card round.

While they do have a young option on the roster in Will Howard (who they drafted last spring), they still need a reliable option for 2026 if they hope to compete once again, assuming Rodgers does not return.

San Francisco 49ers

Edge Rusher

The 49ers struggled to reach the opposing quarterback in 2025. Last season, San Francisco enjoyed an ice boucne-abck campaign, but they finished the season with only 20 total sacks, the lowest in the port. In fact, they were the only team that did not have more than 20 total sacks.

While they have talent like Nick Bosa, he has struggled to stay on the field for a full season. The 49ers should look to target a high-end edge rusher in the draft to serve as not only a complementary piece to Bosa, but someone who could take the lead role in case he misses more playing time.

Seattle Seahawks

Running Back

Following the departure of Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, the team's biggest need is very clearly the running back position. While they do have a capable starting option in Zach Charbonnet under contract, he suffered an ACL tear in their postseason run, which could limit him for most of the first half of the 2026 season.

Alongside Charbonnet, the Seahawks have depth options like Emanuel Wilson (former Green Bay Packers backup), George Holani, and Kenny McIntosh. A reliable option in the early rounds would keep their Super Bowl window wide open.

Kenneth Walker III TOUCHDOWN. Seattle starts fast.

LARvsSEA on FOX/FOX One
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— NFL (@NFL) January 25, 2026

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Secondary

The Buccaneers fell just short in their bid for the postseason but have a strong roster well-equipped to be in serious contention for the NFC South crown in 2026. On offense, they have a deep roster, which is highlighted by young running back Bucky Irving and potential breakout wide receiver Emeka Egbuka.

However, their primary weakness is currently in the secondary. Last season, Tampa Bay allowed a modest 238.2 passing yards per game, which placed them sixth-highest in the league. Outside of top safety Antoine Winfield, the Buccaneers had two underwhelming starting cornerbacks, as both Zyon McCollum and Benjamin Morrison both grade below average on PFF.

Tennessee Titans

Offensive Line

As a rebuilding team, the Tennessee Titans have several glaring needs on their roster. While running back was considered for this spot, they do have two competition options if they choose to rely on Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears again in 2026. Instead, improving their offensive line will provide the greatest impact for this young franchise.

Currently, the lone bright spot on this offensive line is guard Peter Skoronski. The former 11th overall selection from the 2023 NFL Draft placed eighth among all guards according to PFF in Overall Grade in 2025, and was also one of the best pass blockers in the sport.

Washington Commanders

Wide Receiver

Rounding out our list will be the Washington Commanders. While they have begun to show interest in Brandon Aiyuk, which would significantly boost their team, they still need another high-end WR and may look to target this position with their first-round pick. While Terry McLaurin is under contract as the clear WR1, the team lacks depth around him.

Currently, the No 2 option will fall to Dyami Brown, Luke McCaffrey, and Treylon Burks. All three of these wideouts have never produced as a No.2 option throughout their careers and are better suited for a change-of-pace role.

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