One X-factor for every NFL team heading into 2020

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 12: Strong safety Tyrann Mathieu #32 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts during player introductions before the AFC Divisional playoff game against the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium on January 12, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images) /

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Dallas Cowboys – Everson Griffen

Griffen might be the Cowboys’ newest player but he arrives in Dallas with massive expectations. He’s the guy who will need to transform the team’s pass rush from mediocre (at best) to good in 2020.

The former Vikings star isn’t a flashy edge rusher, but he can collapse the pocket with his unique combination of power and finesse. The Cowboys need him to notch double-digit sacks this year. Their Super Bowl hopes may hinge on Griffen’s ability to be their X-factor.

New York Giants – Evan Engram

The Giants really missed their starting tight end when he missed eight games last season. Engram could easily turn out to be Daniel Jones’ most dangerous weapon in 2020.

In particular, Engram will need to give his quarterback a valuable safety blanket due to the team’s question marks at both tackle positions. The Giants need Engram to catch short passes and turn them to intermediate and long gains.

Philadelphia Eagles – Jalen Reagor

The Eagles can’t reasonably expect to rely on Alshon Jeffery and DeSean Jackson to both start 16 games at wide receiver this season. That means Reagor, despite being a rookie, needs to be ready to play right away.

He’s got the quick-twitch athleticism required to beat press coverage at the NFL level. It might take Reagor some time to adjust to the mental side of the pro game, but Carson Wentz knows him to be an impact weapon by the time the playoffs roll around.

Washington Football Team – Thomas Davis

The veteran middle linebacker isn’t going to be a meaningful part of Washington’s future, but he does have a major role to fill in 2020. Ron Rivera can’t be the only adult in the locker room for his new team. He needs Davis to be the team’s spiritual leader both on and off the field.

Davis won’t need to be a star, but he does need to hold down the middle linebacker spot. Otherwise, he won’t be able to hold the respect of his teammates. If Davis can help Washington’s front seven play to its full potential it could help this team be more competitive than most experts are projecting.

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