The NFC East witnessed a thrilling battle last season primarily between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles. While the Eagles, fresh from a Super Bowl appearance, initially looked set to dominate the division, a series of unexpected losses towards the season’s end allowed the Cowboys to clinch the title with a stellar 12-5 record.
Injuries plagued the New York Giants as their quarterback Daniel Jones was sidelined for a significant portion due to a neck injury and a torn ACL. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders grappled with an underperforming offensive line that severely impacted their offense, and their situation was exacerbated by the mid-season trades of key defensive players Monte Sweat and Chase Young.
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, there’s an air of cautious optimism among the Giants, who anticipate a competitive comeback with a healthy Daniel Jones. The Commanders, on the other hand, are placing their hopes on rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to emerge as a cornerstone for the franchise.
As teams gear up for the 2024 season, here are key non-quarterback players in the NFC East who are expected to make a significant impact:
#4 – **Dallas Cowboys: CeeDee Lamb, Wide Receiver**
CeeDee Lamb has evolved into one of the NFL’s premier receivers, consistently improving over his career to notch three consecutive Pro Bowl selections.
Last season, he led the NFL with 135 receptions and broke Michael Irvin’s franchise records for both receptions and receiving yards in a single season, earning him First-Team All-Pro honors. With Tony Pollard no longer in the mix, the Cowboys will rely even more heavily on Lamb’s dynamic playmaking abilities.
Both Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott are entering contract years, making this season crucial for their future with the Cowboys.
#3 – **New York Giants: Brian Burns, Defensive End**
Before the 2024 Draft, the Giants secured a significant trade by acquiring linebacker Brian Burns from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for second and fifth-round draft picks. Burns, who immediately became one of the highest-paid defensive players with a five-year, $141 million contract, is set to enhance the Giants’ defense alongside Dexter Lawrence and assist in the development of second-year edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux.
#2 – **Washington Commanders: Terry McLaurin, Wide Receiver**
Terry McLaurin has consistently been a reliable asset for the Commanders, surpassing 70 receptions and 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last four seasons. With rookie Jayden Daniels stepping in as quarterback, McLaurin’s experience and leadership will be crucial in aiding the young quarterback’s transition and development.
#1 – **Philadelphia Eagles: Saquon Barkley, Running Back**
In an intriguing offseason move, Saquon Barkley switched allegiances within the NFC East, moving from the New York Giants to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Barkley, who amassed over 5,200 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns in six seasons with the Giants, is expected to revive the Eagles’ running game which faltered last season following Miles Sanders’ departure. Barkley’s addition not only boosts the Eagles’ offense but also intensifies the NFC East rivalry by joining a direct competitor.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, these key players are poised to influence the dynamics of the NFC East and contribute significantly to their teams’ success.