The NFL is Back: 50 Things to Know Before the 2024 Season Kicks Off
The wait is finally over! The 2024 NFL season is just 50 days away, and the anticipation is reaching fever pitch. The gridiron is calling, and the roar of the crowd is just around the corner. To get you ready for the action, let’s delve into 50 fascinating facts and insights about the upcoming season. We’ll explore historical trends, statistical oddities, and player milestones, all leading up to the season opener between the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Baltimore Ravens, the team sporting last season’s best regular season record.
The NFL is truly a national pastime, captivating millions across the country. According to Nielsen data, 93 out of the 100 most-watched television broadcasts in 2023 were NFL games, a testament to the league’s enduring popularity. This season promises to be even more exciting, with a slew of intriguing storylines and individual rivalries to watch.
We’ve compiled a treasure trove of compelling insights from the CBS Sports research department, offering a glimpse into the statistical landscape that could impact fantasy football lineups or even influence your gambling bets. Let’s dive in and uncover the hidden gems of the 2024 NFL season.
- The 2024 NFL season is just 50 days away, with the Kansas City Chiefs set to face the Baltimore Ravens in the season opener.
- NFL games dominated TV ratings in 2023, with 93 out of the top 100 most-watched broadcasts being NFL games.
- The Kansas City Chiefs are aiming to make history by winning a third consecutive Super Bowl, a feat only achieved by four other teams in NFL history.
- Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is a key factor in the Chiefs’ success, already boasting multiple Super Bowl wins and MVP titles.
- Get ready for an exciting season filled with intriguing storylines, player milestones, and intense rivalries across the league.
- Stay tuned for statistical insights that could impact fantasy football decisions and betting strategies throughout the season.
- The anticipation for the upcoming NFL season is at an all-time high, promising fans a thrilling ride on the gridiron.
The Chiefs’ Reign: Can They Threepeat?
The Kansas City Chiefs are the reigning Super Bowl champions, and they’re gunning for an unprecedented feat: winning three consecutive Super Bowls. They’ve already etched their name in NFL history as only the fifth team to achieve three Super Bowl victories in a five-year span, joining the likes of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys, and New England Patriots.
However, the quest for a threepeat is daunting. The Chiefs are aiming to become the first team in NFL history to accomplish this impressive feat and join the Green Bay Packers as the only team to win three consecutive NFL titles.
The Chiefs’ success is largely attributed to the brilliance of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who continues to rewrite the NFL record books. He’s already one of five quarterbacks with three or more Super Bowl wins, a member of the elite club that includes Tom Brady, Joe Montana, Terry Bradshaw, and Troy Aikman. He’s also one of three quarterbacks with three or more Super Bowl MVPs, joining Brady and Montana. Mahomes’ dominance is further solidified by being the first player in NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB history to win three championship MVPs within their first seven seasons.
Mahomes’ leadership and the Chiefs’ relentless pursuit of excellence will be a major storyline throughout the season. Will they overcome the odds and achieve the impossible? We’ll have to wait and see, but one thing is certain: the Chiefs will be a force to be reckoned with and a prime candidate for another Super Bowl appearance.
The 49ers’ Rise: Can Purdy Replicate His Magic?
The San Francisco 49ers were a revelation last season, led by the unexpected rise of quarterback Brock Purdy. Purdy’s emergence was nothing short of remarkable. He took the league by storm, shattering records and proving that he’s a legitimate NFL quarterback.
Purdy’s accomplishments are truly remarkable. He led the NFL in yards per pass attempt with 9.6, the highest single-season mark ever, surpassing even the legendary Tom Brady. He also dominated the league in yards per attempt on throws of various distances, showcasing his exceptional arm talent and ability to stretch the field.
Purdy’s breakout season placed him in an exclusive club with Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, Patrick Mahomes, and Justin Herbert, as the only quarterbacks to achieve 30-plus passing touchdowns and 4,000-plus passing yards in their first season as a full-time starter. His performance ignited the 49ers’ offense, making them a formidable force in the NFC.
Now, the question on everyone’s mind is: can Purdy replicate his magic in 2024? The pressure will be on him to maintain his high level of play and lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance. With a talented offensive supporting cast and a strong defense, the 49ers have all the ingredients for a successful season.
The Ravens’ Resurgence: Can Lamar Jackson Remain Elite?
The Baltimore Ravens have a new head coach, but their ambitions remain the same: to compete for a Super Bowl title. Their quest for ultimate glory depends heavily on the performance of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is seeking to reclaim his MVP form.
Jackson’s impact on the Ravens is undeniable. He’s the youngest quarterback in NFL history to win two league MVPs, a testament to his extraordinary talent and athleticism. He’s a dual-threat quarterback who can dissect defenses with his arm and legs, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Jackson’s performance last season was a mixed bag. He led the Ravens to a stellar regular season record, but they ultimately fell short in the playoffs. The Ravens are determined to make amends and are banking on Jackson to lead them to a deep playoff run.
One of the key factors that could influence Jackson’s performance is the addition of Derrick Henry to the Ravens’ offense. Henry’s arrival will provide Jackson with a reliable running back, potentially lessening his burden as a rusher and allowing him to focus more on his passing game. With a potent offensive attack and a defense that was among the best in the league last season, the Ravens are poised for a successful season.
The Bills’ Dominance: Will They Finally Break Through?
The Buffalo Bills have been a dominant force in the AFC for the past four years, but they’ve struggled to translate their regular season success into playoff wins. Their quest for a Super Bowl title will hinge on the continued dominance of quarterback Josh Allen, who is a legitimate MVP contender.
Allen’s numbers speak for themselves. He’s a dynamic quarterback with a powerful arm and the ability to make big plays both in the air and on the ground. He’s also a leader who inspires his teammates and pushes them to be their best.
The Bills’ offense is explosive, but their defense is equally impressive. They led the NFL in both scoring offense and scoring defense in the 2020s, making them the first team to achieve this feat in a four-year span since the 1990-1993 San Francisco 49ers.
Despite their impressive credentials, the Bills have yet to win a Super Bowl. They’re a team that has all the pieces in place to make a deep playoff run. The question is, can they overcome their playoff demons and finally break through? With Allen at the helm, the Bills are certainly capable of achieving their ultimate goal.
The Jets’ Retooling: Can Rodgers Lead Them to the Playoffs?
The New York Jets are looking to turn the page and end their long playoff drought. They’ve acquired a future Hall of Fame quarterback in Aaron Rodgers, hoping to revitalize their offense and inject a winning culture into the organization.
Rodgers’ arrival is a major coup for the Jets, adding a seasoned veteran and a proven winner to their roster. He’s a quarterback who has achieved greatness in the NFL, winning an MVP award and leading the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl victory.
The Jets have a talented defense that ranked among the best in the league last season. They allowed the fewest yards per play and the third-fewest total yards per game, making them a formidable defensive unit. With Rodgers leading the offense, the Jets should be a much more potent team on both sides of the ball.
The Jets’ playoff drought has stretched for 13 seasons, tied for the longest active streak in the four major professional sports leagues in North America. Can Rodgers break this drought and lead them back to the postseason? The answer to that question will be a major storyline to watch this season.
The Patriots’ Transition: Can Mayo Lead Them to Success?
The New England Patriots have entered a new era with the hiring of Jerod Mayo as their new head coach. Mayo, a former standout linebacker for the Patriots, is tasked with carrying on the legacy of Bill Belichick, the team’s longtime head coach and one of the most successful coaches in NFL history.
Mayo’s coaching career has been impressive so far, but he faces a significant challenge in replacing Belichick. Belichick’s coaching brilliance and his ability to build a winning culture are legendary. Mayo has big shoes to fill, but he’s a smart and capable coach with a strong understanding of the Patriots’ system.
The Patriots’ roster has some talented young players, including quarterback Mac Jones, who is looking to establish himself as a franchise quarterback. They’ll also have to find a way to replace their top wide receiver, Jakobi Meyers, who signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency.
The Patriots are a team in transition, but they have a solid foundation and a strong coaching staff. With Mayo at the helm, they have a chance to remain competitive in the AFC East.
The Dolphins’ Dilemma: Can They Overcome Their Playoff Woes?
The Miami Dolphins are a team with a lot of offensive firepower, led by the lightning-fast Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, but they haven’t been able to translate their offensive explosiveness into playoff success.
The Dolphins have a history of struggling against playoff teams, making it difficult for them to make a deep playoff run. Their recent struggles against playoff teams have been particularly alarming, with a -110 point differential, the second-worst ever by a team to make the postseason.
The Dolphins’ success hinges on the performance of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. He’s a talented quarterback with a quick release and a knack for making big plays, but he’s also prone to injuries. If Tagovailoa can stay healthy and play at a high level, the Dolphins have a chance to make a serious run in the AFC.
The Dolphins have a lot of potential, but they need to prove that they can win the big games. With a talented offense and a solid defense, they have the ingredients for a successful season. But they need to overcome their playoff demons and show that they’re capable of competing for a championship.
The Texans’ Transformation: Can Stroud Lead Them to Respectability?
The Houston Texans are a team in a state of flux, but they have a bright future with the arrival of quarterback C.J. Stroud. Stroud, the 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, is a talented quarterback with a strong arm and a knack for making big plays.
Stroud’s impact on the Texans’ offense was immediate. He led the league in touchdown-to-interception ratio and passing yards per game, putting him in the same company as Tom Brady and Joe Montana. His performance as a rookie was nothing short of remarkable.
The Texans also drafted Will Anderson Jr., the 2023 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, adding a dominant edge rusher to their roster. They’ve been actively building their roster through the draft and free agency, hoping to become a competitive team in the AFC South.
The Texans have a long way to go, but they’re on the right track with Stroud leading the way. With a talented young core and a solid coaching staff, they have the potential to become a force to be reckoned with in the AFC.
The Colts’ Uncertain Future: Can Richardson Make a Statement?
The Indianapolis Colts are hoping that quarterback Anthony Richardson can be the solution to their quarterback woes. Richardson, a talented and athletic quarterback, has the potential to be a star in the NFL.
Richardson’s rookie season was cut short due to a shoulder injury, but he showed flashes of brilliance in his limited action. He became one of only four players in NFL history with three-plus passing touchdowns and three-plus rushing touchdowns in their first four career games, joining an elite group.
The Colts have a solid offensive supporting cast, including running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. Their defense is also solid, giving Richardson a solid foundation to build upon.
The Colts have a lot of uncertainty surrounding their future, but they have a chance to be a surprise team this season if Richardson can stay healthy and play at a high level.
The Titans’ Quest for Identity: Can Levis Find His Groove?
The Tennessee Titans are entering a new era, with the departure of Derrick Henry and the arrival of quarterback Will Levis. Levis, a talented but raw quarterback, is hoping to make his mark on the NFL.
Levis’s rookie season was a mixed bag. He had a strong debut, throwing for four touchdowns, but struggled to maintain consistency throughout the season. He’s a quarterback with a lot of potential, but he needs time to develop and find his groove.
The Titans are a team with a lot of uncertainty. They’ve lost several key players, including Henry and running back Dontrell Hilliard, and their offense will need time to find its identity.
The Titans are a team with a lot of questions. Can Levis become a franchise quarterback? Can they find a way to replace Henry’s production? These are questions that will be answered over the course of the season.
The Raiders’ Reinvention: Can Pierce Guide Them to Success?
The Las Vegas Raiders are looking to turn the page with a new head coach in Antonio Pierce. Pierce, a former standout linebacker for the New York Giants, is tasked with leading the Raiders back to their winning ways.
Pierce’s coaching experience is limited, but he has a strong understanding of the game and a proven ability to motivate his players. He’s hoping to create a winning culture and establish a strong defensive foundation for the Raiders.
The Raiders have a talented roster, including Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby, who is one of only two players with 12-plus sacks and 80-plus tackles in consecutive seasons. They also have a solid offensive core, led by quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.
The Raiders are a team with a lot of potential, but they need to find consistency and establish an identity. With Pierce at the helm, they have a chance to make a push for a playoff berth.
The Broncos’ Struggles: Can They Find a Winning Formula?
The Denver Broncos are in a state of disarray, with a long playoff drought and a recent history of quarterback struggles. Their quest to return to their winning ways is a long and arduous journey.
The Broncos have missed the postseason for eight consecutive seasons, the longest playoff drought ever for a team after winning a Super Bowl. They’ve made several changes to their roster and coaching staff, but they haven’t been able to find a winning formula.
The Broncos are a team with a lot of questions. Can quarterback Russell Wilson rediscover his form? Can they build a solid offensive line? Can they find a way to improve their defense? These are questions that will be answered over the course of the season.
The Cowboys’ Aspirations: Can They Break Through in the Playoffs?
The Dallas Cowboys have been a perennial contender in the NFC East, but they haven’t been able to make a deep playoff run in recent years. Their quest for a Super Bowl title will be a major storyline to watch this season.
The Cowboys’ offense is explosive, led by quarterback Dak Prescott, who has established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league. They also have a talented offensive supporting cast, including wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and running back Tony Pollard.
The Cowboys’ defense is also strong, anchored by Micah Parsons, who has emerged as one of the most dominant defensive players in the league. He’s a force to be reckoned with on the edge, and his impact on the Cowboys’ defense has been significant.
The Cowboys are a team with a lot of talent and a strong coaching staff. They’re a legitimate contender in the NFC, but they need to overcome their recent playoff struggles and find a way to win the big games.
The Eagles’ Championship Hopes: Can They Repeat Their Success?
The Philadelphia Eagles are the reigning NFC champions, but they face a tough challenge in defending their title. They’ll need to overcome a tough schedule and a talented NFC.
The Eagles’ offense is one of the most explosive in the league. They have a talented quarterback in Jalen Hurts, who has established himself as a legitimate MVP contender. They also have a strong running game, led by Miles Sanders and Kenneth Gainwell, and a talented receiving corps, including A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
The Eagles’ defense is also formidable, anchored by Fletcher Cox, Brandon Graham, and Darius Slay. They’re a team with a lot of talent and a strong coaching staff.
The Eagles have a chance to make a deep playoff run, but they’ll need to overcome a tough schedule and a talented NFC. They’ll also need to stay healthy and avoid any major injuries.
The Lions’ Resurgence: Can They Continue Their Momentum?
The Detroit Lions are a team on the rise, with a young and talented roster. They’re coming off a successful season and are looking to build on their momentum.
The Lions’ offense is explosive, led by quarterback Jared Goff, who has rediscovered his form. They also have a talented running game, led by D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams, and a solid receiving corps, including Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.
The Lions’ defense is still developing, but they have a solid core of players, including Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston. They’re a team with a lot of potential, and they’re looking to make a statement this season.
The Lions have a chance to be a surprise team this season. They have a talented roster, a solid coaching staff, and a lot of momentum. They’re looking to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the NFC North.
The Panthers’ New Era: Can They Compete in the NFC South?
The Carolina Panthers are a team in transition, with a new head coach in Frank Reich and a new quarterback in Bryce Young. They’re looking to rebuild their roster and establish a new identity.
Young, the 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, is a talented quarterback with a lot of potential. He’s hoping to make a smooth transition to the NFL and lead the Panthers to a winning season.
The Panthers have a lot of work to do, but they have a solid foundation and a strong coaching staff. They’re looking to compete in the NFC South, but they’ll need to make a lot of improvements to do so.
The Saints’ Uncertain Future: Can They Bounce Back from Last Season?
The New Orleans Saints are a team with a lot of questions, coming off a disappointing season. They’re looking to rebuild their roster and find a way to return to their winning ways.
The Saints’ offense is still potent, led by quarterback Derek Carr and wide receiver Michael Thomas. They also have a solid running game, led by Alvin Kamara.
The Saints’ defense is still a strong unit, anchored by Marshon Lattimore and Demario Davis. They’re a team with a lot of talent, but they need to find a way to generate more turnovers and improve their pass rush.
The Saints are a team with a lot of uncertainty. Can they find a way to return to their winning ways? They’re looking to challenge for a playoff berth, but they’ll need to make a lot of improvements to do so.
The Falcons’ Rebuild: Can They Make Progress in the NFC South?
The Atlanta Falcons are a team in a state of flux, with a young roster and a new head coach in Arthur Smith. They’re looking to rebuild their team and establish a new identity.
The Falcons’ offense is still developing, led by quarterback Desmond Ridder. They also have a talented running back in Bijan Robinson.
The Falcons’ defense is still a work in progress, but they have a few promising young players, including Arnold Ebiketie. They’re a team with a lot of potential, but they need to find a way to improve their offense and defense.
The Falcons are a team with a lot of questions. Can they find a way to become a competitive team in the NFC South? They’re looking to make progress this season, but they’ll need to make a lot of improvements to do so.
The Cardinals’ Retooling: Can They Start a New Chapter?
The Arizona Cardinals are a team in a state of rebuilding, with a new head coach in Jonathan Gannon. They’re looking to turn the page and start a new chapter.
The Cardinals have a lot of work to do, but they have a few promising young players, including Kyler Murray, DeAndre Hopkins, and Zach Ertz. They’re looking to build a competitive team, but it’ll take time.
The Cardinals are a team with a lot of uncertainty. Can they find a way to return to their winning ways? They’re looking to make progress this season, but they’ll need to make a lot of improvements to do so.
The 2024 NFL season promises to be an exciting and unpredictable one. With a new wave of talent emerging and established teams looking to maintain their dominance, the race for the Lombardi Trophy is wide open. The journey to Super Bowl LVIII is just 50 days away, and the anticipation is building. Get ready for the roar of the crowd, the thrill of the game, and the unforgettable moments that make the NFL such a captivating sport.
