Teams sitting at home in January can rejoice in one NFL truth while regretting another. They can rejoice in the fact that the NFL's extreme parity -- more than 20 teams were in the playoff mix in the final weeks of the regular season -- facilitates quick rebuilds. The Cincinnati Bengals, for example, just executed a six-game turnaround, going from four wins and a top-five draft pick to 10 wins and a division title -- and a trip to the Super Bowl. But the Bengals have Joe Burrow, which brings us to the regret: Many of the teams in the bottom third of the standings don't have a steady quarterback option. Most also need offensive line improvements. Bad protection coupled with indecision in the pocket breeds losing.
Now that the 2021 season is over, we're looking ahead at just how much work each must do this offseason -- and potentially beyond. Which teams need to tear it all down and start over? Which need to take a new approach in order to move toward contender status? Which need only a savvy move or two to get into the mix? And which are already trending in the right direction and should continue on the path they are on?
The annual overhaul tiers are ready -- well-stocked with offseason priorities for each team to get better over the next six months.
Jump ahead:
Time for a major rebuild
New coach taking control
Time to reassess
Stuck in QB purgatory
Comfortable despite losing season
On the right track (mostly)
Need a postseason breakthrough
Still serious contenders
TIME FOR A MAJOR REBUILD
Jacksonville Jaguars
2021 record: 3-14
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.3
Projected 2022 cap space: $42,625,233
Big-ticket free agent: Cam Robinson, OT
Low-key important free agent: DJ Chark Jr., WR
Priorities this offseason: Support quarterback Trevor Lawrence with a better supporting cast on offense and a better plan. Everything Jacksonville does over the next eight months should be to maximize Lawrence, whose rookie year was one to forget. The No. 1 pick has an impressive skill set but needs more talent around him, an innovative offensive coach and a team culture that won't let him down.
Jacksonville also needs upgrades along both lines and at just about every position. The new head coach must bring stability to the building after a disastrous past two years. Finding someone who can safely build relationships and trust with players is a priority after the issues Urban Meyer had in this area.
Detroit Lions
2021 record: 3-13-1
Average age of starters in 2021: 25.4
Projected 2022 cap space: $37,369,359
Big-ticket free agent: Charles Harris, OLB
Low-key important free agent: Jalen Reeves-Maybin, ILB
Priorities this offseason: Upgrade the defense and figure out if Jared Goff is the quarterback in 2022. Goff carries a $31.15 million cap hit vs. $30.5 million in dead money, so the next year of his contract is essentially a sunk cost. But the Lions are short on alternatives at quarterback, so running it back wouldn't shock. The offense has intriguing young playmakers, including tight end T.J. Hockenson, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and running back D'Andre Swift, but it needs an infusion of talent on the perimeter.
Spending a top draft pick on one of the top pass-rushers (Aidan Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux) would fill a glaring need for the Lions' defense, but that side of the ball needs so much more. Overall speed and pedigree is lacking.
Houston Texans
2021 record: 4-13
Average age of starters in 2021: 27.1
Projected 2022 cap space: $32,188,712
Big-ticket free agent: Kamu Grugier-Hill, ILB
Low-key important free agent: Chris Conley, WR
Priorities this offseason: Deal quarterback Deshaun Watson before the draft. General manager Nick Caserio has been reluctant to trade Watson, whose 22 lawsuits alleging sexual assault remain unresolved, but Caserio needs to start this rebuild in earnest, and the best way to do so is by accumulating first-round picks from another team for Watson. If there is movement on Watson's case between the March 17 start of the new league year and the draft in late April, Caserio should be aggressive in dealing him.
The Texans need upgrades at virtually every position. Since the draft class is considered weak at QB, Caserio might stick with Davis Mills and acquire a bridge option, such as Teddy Bridgewater.
New York Giants
2021 record: 4-13
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.4
Projected 2022 cap space: $4,678,225
Big-ticket free agent: Jabrill Peppers, S
Low-key important free agent: Austin Johnson, DT
Priorities this offseason: Offensive line, offensive line, offensive line. This has been a massive problem the past two seasons. Use draft capital (two first-rounders) to get one of the top linemen in the draft -- perhaps Alabama tackle Evan Neal -- and double down in free agency.
The Giants also need to keep quarterback Daniel Jones under contract but not pick up his fifth-year option, which would make him a 2023 free agent. That would give New York the flexibility to either play Jones next year or big-game hunt for a quarterback such as Russell Wilson if the opportunity opens. New York still has a lot of offensive skill, but no one ever seems to be healthy. The front office needs to address whether those players can stay on the field. Lastly, the Giants have to find reinforcements along the defensive front seven.
NEW COACH TAKING CONTROL
Chicago Bears
2021 record: 6-11
Average age of starters in 2021: 28.0
Projected 2022 cap space: $41,752,020
Big-ticket free agent: Allen Robinson II, WR
Low-key important free agent: James Daniels, G
Priorities this offseason: Evaluators say the Bears' roster might be among the league's worst, so clearly the problems run deeper than Matt Nagy's coaching. David Montgomery is the perfect running back to lessen the burden on a young quarterback, yet he is averaging 3.8 yards per carry because the offensive line isn't good enough. Chicago has to upgrade up front to give Montgomery space. Additionally, quarterback Justin Fields needs at least three vertical threats, and for 2022, he has one reliable option at wide receiver: Darnell Mooney. Acquiring weapons on the outside should be a priority.
It's also probably time to gauge edge rusher Khalil Mack's trade value. He missed 10 games this season, he will turn 31 in February and he has a $30.15 million cap hit. That's the injury-age-contract trifecta for a potential release or trade, no matter how good he might still be. The Bears could use those resources on younger players along the defensive line and secondary.
Miami Dolphins
2021 record: 9-8
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.5
Projected 2022 cap space: $73,231,745
Big-ticket free agent: Mike Gesicki, TE
Low-key important free agent: Emmanuel Ogbah, DE
Priorities this offseason: The Dolphins raised very public doubts about quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in their pursuits of Deshaun Watson, a storyline they never really squashed. I expect Miami to circle back on Watson. Indications are Watson wants to be a Dolphin, and if the legal issues get cleared up, he will have suitors. We can view Miami's options like this, both of which have pros and cons:
Stick with Tagovailoa, allowing Miami to keep more than $70 million in 2022 cap space to continue improving the roster around a quarterback it knows can win games but doesn't know how far he can take it.
Trade for Watson, which basically cuts that cap space in half (Watson has a $40 million cap hit next year) and would cost serious draft capital in exchange
Regardless which way the Dolphins go, they also have other areas that need addressing. In free agency, they should start with the offensive line. There are plenty of tackles are available, from Terron Armstead to Cam Robinson to Trent Brown. Considering the Dolphins have converted two high draft picks from tackle to guard (Robert Hunt and Austin Jackson), the draft might be telling you it's time to spend on the position.
TIME TO REASSESS
Atlanta Falcons
2021 record: 7-10
Average age of starters in 2021: 27.2
Projected 2022 cap space: $457,005
Big-ticket free agent: Cordarrelle Patterson, RB
Low-key important free agent: Fabian Moreau, CB
Priorities this offseason: Sell a clear vision. The status of Atlanta's roster tells us the Falcons are rebuilding, but their moves haven't always indicated that. Keeping quarterback Matt Ryan suggests Atlanta is in contention, and it paid him $23 million last year. The Falcons could pay a quarterback far less for a six-win season. That's not a knock on Ryan, who helped keep Atlanta competitive, but for a team that appears cash- and cap-strapped, it might be time to trade some of its high-priced players.
The Falcons also should gauge the trade market for Calvin Ridley, who's a fringe top-10 wide receiver when in the lineup. Ridley missed 12 games while focusing on his mental health, and it's unclear where he stands in Atlanta's plans. The team has been supportive, but a fresh start might help both parties. Ridley would have a robust market.
Minnesota Vikings
2021 record: 8-9
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.5
Projected 2022 cap space: minus-$10,542,088
Big-ticket free agent: Anthony Barr, OLB
Low-key important free agent: Xavier Woods, S
Priorities this offseason: This one is easy. With quarterback Kirk Cousins' $45 million cap hit staring the front office down, Minnesota must decide how it feels about life in the middle. Cousins symbolizes steady QB play and the occasional playoff berth. Is that worth nearly one-fourth of your salary cap? It might be time to reinvent things.
Extending Cousins can lessen that cap hit, but he would have a trade market if the Vikings want to enhance draft capital. It's hard to fault the Vikings if they want to go all in on 2022 with one more year of Cousins, letting him play out his deal and banking on the quartet of Cousins, wide receiver Justin Jefferson, running back Dalvin Cook and wideout Adam Thielen fueling a playoff run. But that hasn't worked the past two seasons.
Either way, the Vikings also must figure out an aging defense. Most of its key players are 29 or older, and the best player who isn't -- Danielle Hunter (27) -- has played seven games in two seasons. The Vikings have to decide on Hunter's $18 million roster bonus due on the fifth day of the league year. He is a premier talent, but that's a hefty number for a largely unavailable player.
Pittsburgh Steelers
2021 record: 9-7-1
Average age of roster in 2021: 26.4
Projected 2022 cap space: $42,716,831
Big ticket free agent: Ben Roethlisberger, QB
Low-key important free agent: Trai Turner, G
Priorities this offseason: Replacing a franchise legend, two-time Super Bowl winner and future Hall of Famer at quarterback is a good start. Ben Roethlisberger's impending retirement leaves coach Mike Tomlin charting a new path at QB for the first time since he took over the Steelers in 2007. The Steelers have a clear runway when it comes to options: They can go with the middle-tier veteran, big-game hunt for the top quarterbacks available via trade, or lean into the draft while Mason Rudolph bridges the gap in 2022.
That new quarterback will need improvements along an offensive line that ranked 28th in rushing offense. The Steelers didn't invest heavily in the position group in 2021, and it showed. Cornerback Joe Haden and receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster are among notable free agents Pittsburgh could try to keep on one-year deals, while extending safety Minkah Fitzpatrick will occupy part of the summer. And the Steelers need to sort through the future of Stephon Tuitt, an elite defensive tackle who missed the season.
This is a crucial time for Pittsburgh, which could see GM Kevin Colbert retire after his contract expires following the 2022 draft. Staff changes could be on the way, too. Defensive coordinator Keith Butler's contract also expires this offseason.
STUCK IN QB PURGATORY
Carolina Panthers
2021 record: 5-12
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.4
Projected 2022 cap space: $24,831,160
Big-ticket free agent: Stephon Gilmore, CB
Low-key important free agent: Haason Reddick, OLB
Priorities this offseason: Retool the offense. Right now, the Panthers aren't scaring anybody on that side of the ball. Upgrading at quarterback would be prudent, but with Sam Darnold's $18.6 million option guaranteed, alternatives are limited. Perhaps they can gauge Darnold's trade value and reenter Deshaun Watson talks.
Quarterback is hardly the only problem. Carolina has to find a long-term bookend tackle to pair with Taylor Moton, and it needs to enter the modern era of football and actually use the tight end in the passing game. Ian Thomas, a 2022 free agent, and Tommy Tremble are intriguing options, but they combined for 38 catches and 368 yards on 65 targets. Usage is an issue here. Get reinforcements in the backfield and in the slot in case running back Christian McCaffrey isn't healthy -- but pray that he is.
And on defensive side, the Panthers should try to retain free-agent cornerback Stephon Gilmore and re-sign edge rusher Haason Reddick, who has balled out on a one-year, prove-it deal.
Washington Football Team
2021 record: 7-10
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.7
Projected 2022 cap space: $52,190,552
Big-ticket free agent: Brandon Scherff, G
Low-key important free agent: J.D. McKissic, RB
Priorities this offseason: Situate the quarterback position long term. Taylor Heinicke played admirably in 2021, but coach Ron Rivera has gone through two seasons without stability at the position. It's time. No more bridge options. Identify your guy.
Interior offensive line will be an issue since Brandon Scherff -- coming off two franchise tags -- will likely command $20 million per year in free agency. Replenishing the line is crucial. And signing wide receiver Terry McLaurin to an extension would be a prudent move. He has been the team's most reliable player for three seasons.
Lastly, I'd like to see Washington motivate Chase Young to unleash havoc in Year 3. He came out flat this season before his knee injury, but he belongs up there with Nick Bosa and other top young pass-rushers, and he needs to show it.
Denver Broncos
2021 record: 7-10
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.4
Projected 2022 cap space: $52,737,300
Big-ticket free agent: Melvin Gordon III, RB
Low-key important free agent: Bryce Callahan, CB
Priorities this offseason: Let's run through the Broncos' rankings in scoring offense over the past six years: 23rd, 28th, 28th, 24th, 27th and 22nd. Fixing the offense is paramount, as moving the ball consistently has been an issue since Peyton Manning retired. The only difference is this Denver team is well-stocked with talent. The Broncos have everything they need on offense, save the franchise quarterback. And even if Denver doesn't land, say, an Aaron Rodgers, there will be upgrades available. But overall, a new offensive vision and some innovation in the passing game seem necessary.
Save a few depth adds along the front seven or at safety (Kareem Jackson, 33, is a free agent), the defense is ready to win now. With Kyle Fuller and Bryce Callahan likely going to free agency, the Broncos need a third corner opposite Pat Surtain II and Ronald Darby. Plenty of options will be available, including Callahan on a potential re-sign.
Cleveland Browns
2021 record: 8-9
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.3
Projected 2022 cap space: $25,572,149
Big-ticket free agent: Jadeveon Clowney, DE
Low-key important free agent: David Njoku, TE
Priorities this offseason: Here's my understanding of the Baker Mayfield-Browns situation after a turbulent season. Mayfield wants to make this work and believes the relationship with the team and coaches is salvageable. It would take deterioration from the current state to prompt any sort of trade request. Mayfield and coach Kevin Stefanski know they need a stronger relationship; Mayfield thrives off camaraderie and connection, and Stefanski is known by players as more of a CEO type. But the second-year coach has that gear to connect more with his quarterback, and I suspect that will happen.
It's also very early, with many QB dominoes still to fall leaguewide. Will that affect Browns' thinking? Possibly, but trading Mayfield's $18.58 million option year wouldn't be easy. The good news for the Browns is they've seen Mayfield play well twice: as a rookie in 2018 and in 2020 with a playoff run. The torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder -- which could keep him out of OTAs this offseason due to surgery -- clearly affected his mechanics. The Browns are expecting better play from him overall going forward.
The Browns also could use one more explosive pass-catcher to complement the running game. And on defense, I'm expecting the Browns and representatives for Pro Bowl corner Denzel Ward to secure a long-term extension this offseason. Finally, re-signing edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney at a reasonable clip wouldn't hurt, either.
New Orleans Saints
2021 record: 9-8
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.9
Projected 2022 cap space: minus-$60,559,322
Big-ticket free agent: Terron Armstead, OT
Low-key important free agent: Marcus Williams, S
Priorities this offseason: Get receiver help! There's an argument that the Saints had the league's worst receiver corps this season, and there's no reason not to upgrade. As for who is throwing the ball to the receivers, the Saints could consider re-signing Jameis Winston, who threw 14 touchdown passes to three interceptions before tearing his ACL. The Saints were 5-2 when he got hurt in Week 8. But even so, New Orleans ought to comb the Deshaun Watson/Russell Wilson markets, just in case.
The Saints also should attempt to re-sign tackle Terron Armstead, who might price himself out of town, and Marcus Williams, one of the game's best ball hawking safeties. New Orleans' defense, though aging in spots, remains a force, especially in the secondary.
I'd say the last -- and perhaps most important -- thing would be to clean up that salary-cap deficit, but we talk about this every year, and the Saints always find a way to maneuver it.
Philadelphia Eagles
2021 record: 9-8
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.3
Projected 2022 cap space: minus-$2,794,808
Big-ticket free agent: Jason Kelce, C
Low-key important free agent: Steven Nelson, CB
Priorities this offseason: Take stock of the quarterback position and solidify its future. The lifeless wild-card loss to Tampa Bay raises questions about Jalen Hurts' 2022 outlook in green. Hurts did an admirable job leading Philadelphia to nine wins and a playoff berth, but his problems against the Bucs -- including struggling to see open receivers and bailing from the pocket too early -- aren't new. Philadelphia at least needs to create competition for Hurts. And with GM Howie Roseman's aggressive mentality, the Eagles are bound to be involved in a few big-game QB talks leaguewide. How could they not be, with three first-round picks (Nos. 15, 16 and 19 overall)?
The Eagles stay competitive most years because they prioritize line play, and both lines should remain solid. Re-signing Jason Kelce (who might retire) is a no-brainer. He's still playing well.
Philadelphia must address the secondary, which loses three starters. That entire group is aging, and it's time to add draft pedigree there.
COMFORTABLE DESPITE LOSING SEASON
New York Jets
2021 record: 4-13
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.1
Projected 2022 cap space: $50,261,250
Big-ticket free agent: Marcus Maye, S
Low-key important free agent: Braxton Berrios, WR
Priorities this offseason: Continue to build the offensive line and receiving corps for quarterback Zach Wilson. GM Joe Douglas has prioritized the line in his first few years on the job, but that doesn't mean the position is fixed -- especially with a young rookie QB who suffered a knee injury in Year 1. Continue to load up there.
The Jets are not talented enough at the skill positions, either, though re-signing wideout Braxton Berrios, a revelation late during the season, would be a smart move. And coach Robert Saleh needs reinforcements in the secondary on defense. One of the team's first draft picks (two in the top 10) could be on a defensive back.
Seattle Seahawks
2021 record: 7-10
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.8
Projected 2022 cap space: $42,919,637
Big-ticket free agent: Quandre Diggs, S
Low-key important free agent: Brandon Shell, OT
Priorities this offseason: Sort out the future, with or without quarterback Russell Wilson. If Wilson feels Seattle will make the necessary moves to contend, he'll stay. If it's status quo, he could want out. Now it's important to remember Seattle's way of roster building might differ from how Wilson sees things. That's why I believe Wilson and coach Pete Carroll have had philosophical differences. Wilson has, at times, wanted aggressiveness on the open market, while Seattle typically spends wisely. The gap can be bridged, presumably with a series of personnel moves.
Either way, the offensive line still needs major improvements, and cornerback is a long-standing issue. The Seahawks also are faced with a decision on the future of linebacker Bobby Wagner, who has a $20 million cap hit in 2022, and extending wide receiver DK Metcalf (a 2023 free agent) wouldn't be a bad idea. This is not a teardown job, but the roster has a few soft spots.
ON THE RIGHT TRACK (MOSTLY)
Baltimore Ravens
2021 record: 8-9
Average age of starters in 2021: 27.3
Projected 2022 cap space: $45,349,986
Big-ticket free agent: Bradley Bozeman, C
Low-key important free agent: Anthony Averett, CB
Priorities this offseason: Figure out why Ravens players are getting hurt at an alarming rate. Baltimore finishes the year with 18 players on injured reserve. Those are numbers that prompt internal reviews on injury-prevention seminars. Broken bones turned a contending team to a middle-of-the-road finisher. Maybe this is an anomaly, but Baltimore needs to figure it out -- and fast.
The Ravens also have to stay patient regarding quarterback Lamar Jackson's future. They were loosely prepared to do a deal with Jackson last summer, but the QB didn't stress the issue. His fourth-year performance featured moments of brilliance, a midseason lull and a late-season fizzle due to an ankle issue that cost him the final four games. Jackson is set to play on a fifth-year option of $23 million.
Indianapolis Colts
2021 record: 9-8
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.7
Projected 2022 cap space: $56,027,639
Big-ticket free agent: Eric Fisher, OT
Low-key important free agent: Mark Glowinski, G
Priorities this offseason: The baffling loss to Jacksonville in Week 18, with the playoffs on the line, will haunt Indy this offseason. The Colts have built an impressive roster under GM Chris Ballard but can't translate Pro Bowl performances into January success. They can attack a few holes to get there and could use a veteran pass-rusher to complement young talent after ranking 23rd in sacks (33).
The passing game got exposed late in the season without a reliable No. 2 wide receiver opposite Michael Pittman Jr. Adding more explosion on the outside will help quarterback Carson Wentz. But otherwise, Indy should be primed for an AFC South title run in 2022 if it can avoid the slow start it experienced this past season.
Las Vegas Raiders
2021 record: 10-7
Average age of roster in 2021: 27.2
Projected 2022 cap space: $27,394,692
Big ticket free agent: Marcus Mariota, QB
Low-key important free agent: Casey Hayward Jr., CB
Priorities this offseason: Re-sign Derek Carr. It's pretty simple. Teams need quarterbacks who can elevate their teams in critical moments, and Carr was memorable in that area this season. The rumors that swirled about Carr's future with the franchise percolated during the Jon Gruden era, but that era is over. Shut those rumors down by giving Carr a deal commensurate with his skill set and the quarterback market.
The Raiders should then sign elite slot receiver Hunter Renfrow, a 2023 free agent, to an extension as soon as possible (and maybe linebacker Denzel Perryman too). On defense, it's time for the Raiders to find long-term solutions at cornerback and the interior defensive line. The team has shown a deft touch in the middle to late rounds of the draft but has busted on too many first-rounders. Changing that trend while improving the defense with talented and high-character players will be prudent. Corner Casey Hayward Jr. played well at age 32 and could re-sign.
Los Angeles Chargers
2021 record: 9-8
Average age of starters in 2021: 26.8
Projected 2022 cap space: $72,360,732
Big-ticket free agent: Mike Williams, WR
Low-key important free agent: Uchenna Nwosu, OLB
Priorities this offseason: The run must be stopped. The Chargers couldn't play the run all season, and it kept them out of the playoffs. The defense faces an offseason retooling, with several key players -- defensive tackle Justin Jones, cornerback Chris Harris Jr. and linebackers Uchenna Nwosu, Kyzir White and Kyler Fackrell -- set to hit free agency. Picking up Derwin James Jr.'s fifth-year option is an easy call, and expect the Chargers to engage James' agent in extension talks.
Wide receiver Mike Williams has played his way into a major payout in March, and with Keenan Allen still the primary option in the passing game, Los Angeles must determine its threshold for paying Williams No. 1 WR money. Otherwise, the Chargers shouldn't change much. Let quarterback Justin Herbert continue to sling it.
New England Patriots
2021 record: 10-7
Average age of roster in 2021: 27.3
Projected 2022 cap space: $16,486,325
Big ticket free agent: J.C. Jackson, CB
Low-key important free agent: Trent Brown, OT
Priorities this offseason: Maximize Mac Jones' production with more help. A college quarterback-turned-wideout led the Patriots in receiving (Jakobi Meyers, 866 yards). One of their $50 million tight ends caught fewer than two passes per game this past season (Jonnu Smith, 28 receptions in 16 games). A wide receiver due $9 million next year is coming off a 473-yard campaign (Nelson Agholor). The Patriots should strengthen their pass-catching arsenal. New England has a multidimensional attack with an imposing running game but needs more. Free-agent wideout Chris Godwin would be perfect for New England's offense if the team is comfortable with his medical evaluation, coming off a torn ACL. The Patriots must decide on Agholor, who has a $14.9 million cap hit versus $10 million in dead money.
A major decision on J.C. Jackson looms. Jackson has become one of the game's premier cornerbacks and will be paid as such. Not sure New England loves him enough to pay him close to $20 million per year. And I would find a way to keep linebacker Dont'a Hightower. His age (31) is an issue, but he is a leader who keeps the defense organized and doesn't rely on speed, which should help his game age well.
NEED POSTSEASON BREAKTHROUGH
Dallas Cowboys
2021 record: 12-5
Average age of roster in 2021: 26.6
Projected 2022 cap space: minus-$17,714,526
Big ticket free agent: Randy Gregory, DE
Low-key important free agent: Dalton Schultz, TE
Priorities this offseason: Spend the offseason diagnosing the franchise's playoff allergy. Dallas hasn't won back-to-back playoff games since 1995, has 11 straight playoff appearances without a conference title game showing and fell flat against San Francisco in the wild-card round despite a three-year postseason absence. Dallas was prolific against bad teams but uneven against good teams. Many opponents considered Dallas a fringe contender -- good but not great. But there's enough talent to change that.
Personnel moves won't fix it. Something else is holding Dallas back, and it has to find the edge. Physicality could be an issue, since the 49ers appeared to have that edge early in the wild-card game. The vaunted offensive line is aging, and it's probably time to start planning for life after offensive tackle Tyron Smith, who's 31 and hasn't played more than 13 games in a season since 2015.
Attempting to re-sign Randy Gregory and Dalton Schultz would be prudent, but first Dallas must create cap space. Restructuring DeMarcus Lawrence ($27 million) or Ezekiel Elliott ($18.22 million) are among options.
Arizona Cardinals
2021 record: 11-6
Average age of roster in 2021: 27.9
Projected 2022 cap space: $12,720,083
Big ticket free agent: Chandler Jones, OLB
Low-key important free agent: Chase Edmonds, RB
Priorities this offseason: The Cardinals were supposed to be past these late-season meltdowns. They loaded up on veteran leadership to instill toughness. And it wasn't enough. Quarterback Kyler Murray looked lost in his postseason debut, and the Cardinals were handled on both sides of the ball against the Rams. Whatever gear Arizona had thought it had found, it's time to search again.
It's not a talent issue. Coach Kliff Kingsbury has shown the ability to adapt before. Early in his tenure, he got away from the true Air Raid and toughened up with more protection in the passing game and run-game principles. He'll evaluate everything this offseason to fully support Murray.
The Cardinals are at their best when running the ball well, so re-signing James Conner, Chase Edmonds or both will be options. The team has decisions to make on several key veterans on one-year deals, including tight end Zach Ertz, wide receiver A.J. Green and outside linebacker Markus Golden.
Green Bay Packers
2021 record: 13-4
Average age of roster in 2021: 26.4
Projected 2022 cap space: minus-$44,823,871
Big ticket free agent: Davante Adams, WR
Low-key important free agent: De'Vondre Campbell, ILB
Priorities this offseason: Plan for Aaron Rodgers' future without overreacting. Green Bay played the Rodgers situation perfectly last offseason, staying in the shadows while waiting for him to make the first move, letting him vent publicly, then engendering trust upon his return to the team. Now, both sides have a stronger relationship and the good vibes flowed. This offseason will be different in that Rodgers' contract -- which includes a $46-million salary cap hit in 2022 -- creates urgency. That's not really as tenable a number for a franchise swimming in cap debt. But the Packers can essentially let Rodgers decide where he wants to be in 2022, then react accordingly, knowing they can franchise-tag Adams to keep the Adams-Rodgers pair together. If Rodgers wants to stay, a new contract is likely to be on the table -- as it should be for Adams. But the Jordan Love option is still there, with Green Bay knowing it could save about $20 million on the cap and garner hefty draft capital if Rodgers wants out. The Packers can make a compelling case for him to stay but won't beg.
They have several skill players who are hitting free agency, so they must decide whether they can afford Robert Tonyan or Marquez Valdes-Scantling. If Rodgers and Adams get paid, the answer is probably no.
Tennessee Titans
2021 record: 12-5
Average age of roster in 2021: 27.1
Projected 2022 cap space: $2,663,739
Big ticket free agent: Harold Landry III, OLB
Low-key important free agent: Geoff Swaim, TE
Priorities this offseason: Stout offensive line play is crucial for Derrick Henry's production, and though Tennessee's line has been stout for a while, reinforcements might be due. Center Ben Jones and guard Rodger Saffold turn 33 and 34, respectfully, this summer. Right tackle David Quessenberry turns 32 in August. Left tackle Taylor Lewan missed a combined 19 games the last three seasons because of injury. Not to say these players can't be productive together in 2022, but replenishing the front with youth seems necessary.
Tennessee can get out of Julio Jones' $11.5-million salary without cap issues, so it must decide whether he can still produce at age 33 in 2022 coming off lingering hamstring issues. Tennessee finished tied for 10th with 16 interceptions but could use an additional cornerback. Janoris Jenkins turned 33 in October and Caleb Farley is coming off a torn ACL.
Buffalo Bills
2021 record: 11-6
Average age of roster in 2021: 27.1
Projected 2022 cap space: $4,788,035
Big ticket free agent: Jerry Hughes, DE
Low-key important free agent: Levi Wallace, CB
Priorities this offseason: Capitalize on the front end of quarterback Josh Allen's massive contract with creative spending in 2022. Allen has a $16.4 million cap hit next year, but that number balloons to $39.8 million in 2023 and increases from there. It's time to spend a little. With Jerry Hughes set to hit free agency, the Bills could take a chance on a game-wrecking defensive end in free agency, setting up a contract with escape clauses after Year 1. An extra offensive lineman and pass-catcher would be useful, too.
The Bills should be decisive in what they want to pay linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, a 2023 free agent. The LB market is reaching $20 million per year, and Buffalo won't be eager to pay that. Edmunds is a game-wrecker, but some teams think he's miscast as a middle linebacker and should be an attacking outside linebacker. Evaluators are torn on whether he's elite, but those who love his game, love his game. Cornerback Levi Wallace, meanwhile, will be more affordable, and given his production with Tre'Davious White out, the Bills should consider bringing him back.
San Francisco 49ers
2021 record: 10-7
Average age of roster in 2021: 27.4
Projected 2022 cap space: $598,693
Big ticket free agent: Laken Tomlinson, G
Low-key important free agent: Arden Key, DE
Priorities this offseason: Spend part of the offseason pumping up Jimmy Garoppolo's trade market. He wins! He's a locker room favorite! Whatever it takes. Maybe the 49ers keep Garoppolo and extend the Trey Lance developmental program, but they can save $24.2 million by moving on. It's Lance's time. Kyle Shanahan can get creative by constructing an offense that utilizes Lance's dual-threat ability and features tight end George Kittle and receiver/running back Deebo Samuel as cornerstones.
March and April are all about upgrading at cornerback. It's impressive San Francisco finished in the top 10 on defense with 34-year-old Josh Norman as the lead outside corner. The 49ers won't have a first-round pick but must get creative through free agency and Days 2 and 3 of the draft to bolster the back end of the defense. And they have to save cash now for that massive Nick Bosa extension, which they can do this offseason or next.
Cincinnati Bengals
2021 record: 10-7
Average age of roster in 2021: 26.1
Projected 2022 cap space: $48,553,332
Big ticket free agent: Jessie Bates III, S
Low-key important free agent: C.J. Uzomah, TE
Priorities this offseason: The work along the offensive line is not done. The Bengals have an elite collective of skill players around quarterback Joe Burrow but need to keep him upright. The offensive line improved in spots, but Burrow still took a league-high 51 sacks. Burrow has the acumen to get rid of the ball quickly and check into the right plays. Still, he shouldn't have to worry too much about that. Adding pedigree on Day 1 or 2 of the draft will help Cincinnati take the next step.
The Bengals' defense has proven more opportunistic than expected. Last year's free agency class was stellar, with edge rusher Trey Hendrickson leading the way with 14 sacks and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie making Pro Football Focus' All-Pro team. Slot corner Mike Hilton and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi were nice additions.
But the team shouldn't allocate all of its resources on players outside of the building. They already have a high-end safety in Jessie Bates III. The Bengals should either extend him before free agency or apply the franchise tag with the intention of hammering out a deal before July. He's the leader of the defense. Splurging on free agents without taking care of in-house players can affect locker-room morale. Also, the cornerback spot opposite Awuzie will be an issue after Trae Waynes missed most of the last two years and with Eli Apple hitting free agency.
STILL SERIOUS CONTENDERS
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2021 record: 13-4
Average age of roster in 2021: 28.0
Projected 2022 cap space: $10,314,077
Big ticket free agent: Chris Godwin, WR
Low-key important free agent: Ryan Jensen, C
Priorities this offseason: The Bucs have work to do to keep the championship group together for another run. Eight key starters are hitting free agency, and though quarterback Tom Brady appears on a year-to-year plan, he probably needs his contract updated annually to keep him two years from free agency and soften the cap hit (his current deal goes until 2023). ESPN's Adam Schefter and Jeff Darlington reported that Brady plans to take some time to mull his options before committing to returning in 2022. And the team must crystallize the post-Brady plan, whenever it comes. Will second-round pick Kyle Trask eventually get a one-year showcase?
The Bucs have spent serious coin to keep their free agents happy and paid. They would like to do the same for Chris Godwin, despite his ACL injury. They believe he's the kind of player they want to keep around for the long term. So if his medical condition checks out for a robust 2022 outlook, expect the team to try to re-sign him. Edge rusher Jason Pierre-Paul, tight end Rob Gronkowski, center Ryan Jensen and running back Leonard Fournette are among other free agents who are still producing in a big way.
Coach Bruce Arians looks like he's having too much fun to walk away, but the Bucs would also like to keep defensive coordinator Todd Bowles in the building. They don't want to lose him to a head-coaching job. Perhaps a succession plan is necessary.
Kansas City Chiefs
2021 record: 12-5
Average age of roster in 2021: 26.9
Projected 2022 cap space: $11,950,875
Big ticket free agent: Tyrann Mathieu, S
Low-key important free agent: Derrick Nnadi, DT
Priorities this offseason: Assuming Kansas City puts the franchise tag on left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. as expected, the offense is in ideal shape. Key players Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Joe Thuney are on the front end of long-term deals. Receiver Tyreek Hill is a 2023 free agent and turns 28 this offseason. The Chiefs must re-sign him. The offensive line has plenty of intriguing young players under rookie contracts next year. Adding a complementary receiver would be a bonus.
But the focus should be on maintaining -- or, in some areas, improving -- the defense. Safety Tyrann Mathieu is an emotional leader for that side of the ball. I have a hard time believing the Chiefs will let him walk, though they will likely try to structure a new deal with escape hatches because of his age (he turns 30 in May).
Up front, Kansas City has decisions to make. With Melvin Gordon III, Jarran Reed and Derrick Nnadi hitting free agency, the team probably can't re-sign everyone. It must choose which player is most dependable and most disruptive. Using free agency and the draft to bolster the front seven and secondary will be crucial. For as long as they remain in contention, the Chiefs will constantly push against the salary cap to maximize championship chances.
Los Angeles Rams
2021 record: 12-5
Average age of roster in 2021: 26.2
Projected 2022 cap space: $234,753
Big ticket free agent: Von Miller, OLB
Low-key important free agent: Austin Corbett, G
Priorities this offseason: It's hard to say the Rams should stop gambling on trades for high-priced veterans because they've won so much, but it might be time. After all, those players for whom they traded are all pillars now. They have what they need. At some point, the team needs draft capital, and it can't rely on compensatory picks forever.
Now it's time to pay up on key players. Recently acquired edge rusher Von Miller and receiver Odell Beckham Jr. are free agents. Do the Rams create the cap space to sign one or both? I'm guessing Miller will be the priority because the team gave up second- and third-round picks for him, and the team has said publicly it would like to extend him. The Rams will get receiver Robert Woods back next year, so perhaps Beckham -- who was brilliant at times in L.A. -- will get his payday elsewhere. Extending guard Austin Corbett and/or corner Darious Williams, two underrated players, would also be savvy moves.