As the 2024 NFL season hurtles towards its climax in Week 16, the stakes are skyrocketing not just for teams eyeing the playoffs, but also for several key players whose futures hang in the balance. Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano, our seasoned league insiders, unpack the drama, offer their predictions, and dish out essential fantasy football tips.
Brock Purdy: A Ticking Clock?
At the center of contract buzz this week is Brock Purdy, the San Francisco 49ers quarterback. Having ascended from being the final pick in the 2022 draft to a starting QB, Purdy’s current performance could heavily influence his financial future. Graziano points out, “Purdy is extension-eligible for the first time this offseason. His performance over these final games could drastically impact the size of his extension, especially with the 49ers facing salary cap puzzles.”
Fowler adds a broader perspective on the league’s valuation of quarterbacks. “With five teams dedicating over 20% of their salary cap to quarterbacks, Purdy’s situation is a test case for the 49ers’ willingness to commit a substantial portion of their budget.”
Aaron Rodgers: Another Chance?
Another veteran under the microscope is Aaron Rodgers. Despite a turbulent season with the Jets, Rodgers’ future in the league remains a hot topic. Graziano acknowledges, “It’s hard to see a team taking a chance on Rodgers in 2025 after his struggles, but NFL history is filled with surprises.”
Playoff Contenders and Pretenders
As the playoff picture sharpens, our insiders share insights on teams that could make surprising deep runs or falter at the threshold. Fowler is particularly bullish on the Rams, noting, “Los Angeles has emerged as a dark horse, especially if their star-studded offense stays healthy.”
Graziano highlights the Baltimore Ravens as a team that could disrupt the playoff landscape. “With Lamar Jackson at his peak and a potent defense, the Ravens are a team no one wants to face in January,” he explains.
Defensive Player of the Year: Who’s Leading?
The race for Defensive Player of the Year is heating up with Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt leading the charge. However, Fowler believes there’s room for an upset. “This year’s race is more open, allowing for potential surprises like Green Bay’s Xavier McKinney or Houston’s Derek Stingley Jr. to make late pushes for the award.”
Fantasy Football: Who to Start?
Heading into the fantasy playoffs, Fowler advises not to overlook Buccaneers’ Jalen McMillan. “With a recent uptick in targets and production, McMillan could be a pivotal player in fantasy lineups,” he suggests. Meanwhile, Graziano sees value in Jerome Ford of the Browns, especially with Nick Chubb sidelined. “Ford faces a Bengals defense that’s been vulnerable against the run, making him a strong play this week.”
The Coaching Carousel and Trade Regrets
As the season winds down, speculation about coaching changes is ramping up. Fowler notes, “Mike Vrabel’s name is buzzing, linked with potential openings from Dallas to Las Vegas, and even a return to college football at Ohio State.”
Reflecting on trades, Graziano laments some of the high-profile moves that haven’t panned out. “Big-name receivers like DeAndre Hopkins and Amari Cooper haven’t dramatically shifted their teams’ fortunes, raising questions about the value of midseason trades.”
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