With training camps underway for all 32 NFL teams, it’s time to look at which players can improve the most in 2024.
Here, we’ll examine the most likely improvement candidates for each of the four teams in the NFC South. This includes two former first-round picks who, so far, have yet to meet expectations in their NFL careers.
The Top Candidates To Improve for Each Team in the NFC South in 2024
Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Pitts
Following a trip to the Pro Bowl during his rookie season, Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts had high expectations in 2022 and 2023.
Pitts was rarely used properly by former Falcons play-caller Arthur Smith, though. Now, Zac Robinson is Atlanta’s offensive coordinator, and Pitts should be in line for a massive improvement over his disappointing performances in each of the last two seasons.
Carolina Panthers: Bryce Young
Bryce Young is the only second-year player on this entire list. While it’s easy to expect last year’s No. 1 pick to take a step forward in 2024, he looked horrendous as a rookie. In response, the Panthers made arguably the best hire of this offseason, hiring Dave Canales to be the head coach.
Dave Canales says there’s no plan to “fix” Bryce Young. Instead, they seek to build an offense around him that has an identity. #Panthers pic.twitter.com/Z027Z0mZhK
— Sheena Quick (@Sheena_Marie3) February 27, 2024
Canales did a phenomenal job revitalizing the careers of Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield. He will be looking to do the same with Young, who I believe will take a massive leap this upcoming season.
New Orleans Saints: Trevor Penning
Given that the New Orleans Saints ruled out Ryan Ramczyk for the upcoming season, it’s time for Trevor Penning to justify his draft capital. After dealing with injuries and playing poorly, Penning is now projected to start in 2024. Despite his recent struggles, Penning must take advantage of this opportunity and develop in New Orleans.
KEEP READING: NFL Cut Candidates 2024
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Zyon McCollum
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded former starting cornerback Carlton Davis to the Lions this offseason. Part of Tampa Bay’s thinking behind the move was the franchise’s confidence in Zyon McCollum. While the Buccaneers dealt with injuries at cornerback, McCollum filled in admirably and should take a significant step forward as CB2 in 2024.
