Fansided

5 NFL teams with the biggest concerns for 2014

By Andrew Garda

Aug 8, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh McCown (12) calls an audible during the first half of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 8, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Josh McCown (12) calls an audible during the first half of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jul 31, 2014; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain (55) at training camp at the River Ridge Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 31, 2014; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Rolando McClain (55) at training camp at the River Ridge Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Dallas Cowboys

Offensively, this could be one of the most prolific squads in football.

They’d better be, since the defense appears to be ready to do a good imitation of a sieve.

Since releasing DeMarcus Ware (still a sound move even if it turned out to be the first domino here), they’ve lost Sean Lee for the season, had Henry Melton and rookie Demarcus Lawrence hurt and Anthony Spencer placed on the PUP.

A front seven which didn’t appear all that solid last year has actually managed to take a step back, which is going to make it even harder on a secondary which is already a big question mark.

According to Ourlads.com, Morris Claiborne is behind Orlando Scandrick at right cornerback—which whether it’s permanent or not, is a bit disturbing in regards to the third-year defensive back’s development. Meanwhile, the team hopes Claiborne and Brandon Carr—ranked No. 57 overall by Pro Football Focus in 2013 (subscription required)—will be more comfortable in new defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli’s scheme, with more man coverage.

Still, it’s a group that needs some pressure up front and right now, it doesn’t look like they’ll get it.

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