As the NFL Draft approaches, the Baltimore Ravens are focusing on addressing their offensive line, particularly the guard position, following the departure of Patrick Mekari. Last season's line showed improvement as it gained experience, but the need for new talent is pressing. Expect the Ravens to target offensive guards in the mid-rounds of the draft.

Marcus Mbow from Purdue is a notable name, showcasing speed and athleticism for his size. Despite Purdue's struggles, Mbow has proved himself as a solid run blocker. Willie Lampkin from North Carolina is another intriguing option, known for his versatility and high energy on the field, potentially offering significant value as a mid-round pick. Garrett Dillinger from LSU rounds out the list, with experience at both guard and tackle positions, demonstrating a knack for both run-blocking and pass protection, fitting well into the Ravens' zone-read scheme.

The Philadelphia Eagles made significant moves in free agency, adding nine players who could shape the team's performance in 2025. With key departures impacting the roster, the Eagles bolstered their lineup with a mix of experienced and young talent. Notably, they signed linebacker Azeez Ojulari, whose past performance suggests he could replicate or exceed the production of former starters.

The defense received a boost with Joshua Uche and Adoree' Jackson, while the offense added running back A.J. Dillon to complement Saquon Barkley. These strategic additions aim to fill gaps and maintain the Eagles' competitive edge as they pursue another Super Bowl run.

Matt Eberflus returns to Dallas as the new defensive coordinator for the Cowboys, stepping into the role after a challenging stint as head coach of the Chicago Bears. Eberflus aims to revamp the Cowboys' defense by leveraging standout talents like Micah Parsons, Trevon Diggs, and DaRon Bland. He emphasizes aggressive play designed to generate turnovers while addressing the team's deficiencies against the run, echoing past successes under former coordinator Rod Marinelli.

Eberflus' strategy revolves around maximizing Parsons' unique abilities, aiming to utilize him predominantly as a pass rusher. Meanwhile, he expresses excitement about working with the All-Pro cornerback duo of Diggs and Bland, despite Diggs' recovery from knee surgery. Eberflus' commitment to restoring the defense's former glory highlights the Cowboys’ ambitious goals for the upcoming season.

The Philadelphia Eagles continue to set the standard in the NFL, showcasing a well-constructed roster that has made them 6.5-point favorites in the upcoming NFC Championship game. The Eagles’ draft strategy, particularly their focus on players from the University of Georgia, has been instrumental in building a formidable defense. With four starters, including Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter, drafted in recent years, the Eagles have exemplified how to effectively rebuild a team’s defensive unit. Dan Morgan and the Carolina Panthers, looking to rejuvenate their own defense, would do well to consider similar moves in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.

At the draft, the Panthers are expected to have the opportunity to select from a trio of promising Georgia defenders: Malaki Starks, Jalon Walker, and Mykell Williams. Starks, a ball-hawking safety, could address the Panthers’ significant need in the secondary as they prepare to lose multiple safeties to free agency. Meanwhile, Williams presents a versatile option with the potential to excel as both an outside linebacker and a defensive lineman, filling a critical role alongside veterans like Jadeveon Clowney. Lastly, Walker’s versatility could prove invaluable in helping the Panthers re-establish a defensive identity akin to what has been successful with the Eagles. The strategic parallels between the two franchises could mark a turning point for the Panthers as they aim to reinvent their defensive strategy for success in the league.

The Dallas Cowboys faced a disappointing defeat in Week 17, losing 41-7 to the Philadelphia Eagles. This loss marked a significant downturn for the Cowboys, who had previously been on a positive streak with four wins in their last five games. With this defeat, their record fell to 7-9, leaving them with only one game left to play in the season.

Among the players, tight end Jake Ferguson struggled significantly, managing only 18 yards on three receptions and losing a fumble, which further emphasized his disappointing season without a touchdown. Cornerback Andrew Booth also had a rough outing, failing to keep pace with his assignments and allowing an early touchdown, raising concerns about the depth of the secondary.

On a brighter note, wide receiver Jalen Tolbert stood out by catching his seventh touchdown of the season and scoring in three consecutive games, dispelling earlier doubts about his performance. Running back Rico Dowdle made history by surpassing 1,000 rushing yards, becoming the first undrafted free agent in Cowboys history to achieve this milestone. However, quarterback Cooper Rush's performance was lackluster, throwing two interceptions, including a pick-six, and showcasing the inconsistency that has plagued him.

Head coach Mike McCarthy's future also came into question following the loss, as it highlighted the precarious nature of his position with the team. The defeat served as a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL, possibly influencing owner Jerry Jones's decision on McCarthy's return in 2025.