NFL Wild Card Weekend: Major Questions Linger for the Losers

The Wild Card Weekend has wrapped up, setting the stage for six NFL teams to advance to the divisional round of the playoffs, while another half-dozen face an early exit and a start to their offseason planning for 2025. As emerging contenders like the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs gear up for their playoff debuts, teams heading home are left grappling with critical questions about their futures.

Here’s a look at the most pressing inquiries surrounding the eliminated teams:

Denver Broncos: Can They Upgrade Weapons for Bo Nix?

The Denver Broncos are faced with a pivotal decision regarding their rookie quarterback, Bo Nix. He demonstrated promising NFL instincts, particularly with his mobility. The challenge now lies in surrounding him with the right talent. The offensive line showed resilience in 2024, suggesting the focus should shift to enhancing the skill positions. Will they bring in a dynamic running back or a game-changing wide receiver to bolster their offensive firepower?

Green Bay Packers: Will Improved Health Lead to Success?

The Green Bay Packers enjoyed a solid campaign but struggled to reach their full potential, largely due to injuries. Quarterback Jordan Love battled through multiple ailments, and top targets like Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, and Romeo Doubs battled injuries as well. As the offseason approaches, will the organization take steps to build deeper roster depth, or could a disciplined approach from Love be the key to unlocking their potential next season?

Los Angeles Chargers: How Will Justin Herbert Evolve?

Justin Herbert's raw talent has long drawn praise, but his performance on the playoff stage raised eyebrows. His inaugural playoff experience under head coach Jim Harbaugh revealed inconsistencies that could haunt a young quarterback. To bounce back, the Chargers need to focus on two main areas: securing a reliable partner for standout Ladd McConkey and cultivating Herbert's confidence through this battle-tested journey.

Minnesota Vikings: What’s Next for Sam Darnold?

A change seems imminent for the Vikings and quarterback Sam Darnold. Once on the brink of a lucrative contract, his playoff performance against the Los Angeles Rams fell flat, raising questions about his value. As the team considers their options, with J.J. McCarthy waiting in the wings, how will the Vikings navigate Darnold's checkered but intriguing season?

Pittsburgh Steelers: Will They Finally Embrace Transformation?

The Steelers made headlines last offseason with a surprising change at quarterback, bringing in both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Yet, after another early playoff exit, the need for a philosophical shift is pressing. Will management continue to back Mike Tomlin’s conservative coaching style, or is it finally time for Pittsburgh to adapt its game plan in an era that demands innovation?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Is Todd Bowles Safe?

The fate of head coach Todd Bowles remains uncertain as the Buccaneers shift their focus in the offseason. Will the organization choose to retain him despite playoff failures? With speculation swirling around potential coaching changes throughout the league, Bowles' future hangs in the balance as team executives weigh the need for a fresh perspective against the desire for stability.

As teams assess their shortcomings, the wild-card round has left questions that will shape the narratives of the NFL offseason. Stay tuned as we follow the developments and changes in the league that could transform the next season!