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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ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 08: Hayden Hurst #81 of the Baltimore Ravens runs the ball for a touchdown during the third quarter of an NFL game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on December 08, 2019 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Bryan M. Bennett/Getty Images) /

Atlanta Falcons – Hayden Hurst

Austin Hooper’s free-agency departure left the Falcons with a giant hole to fill at tight end. Credit the team’s front office for filling that vacancy with a very capable replacement.

Hurst won’t be the same deep threat for the Falcons passing game that Hooper was a season ago. He is, however, a superior in-line blocker. It’s not out of the question Hurts could provide Atlanta with a sneaky upgrade at tight end in 2020.

Carolina Panthers – Derrick Brown

The Panthers’ defense was shockingly bad against the run in 2019. That’s why they spent a high first round pick on the former Auburn defensive tackle. Brown will be expected to partner with Kawann Short to give Carolina one of the best interior defensive lines in the NFL next season.

The Panthers aren’t going to be playoff contenders in 2020, but they need young players to prove they can be difference-makers to build a foundation for future success. Brown has to show star potential for Carolina during his rookie season to be considered a success.

New Orleans Saints – Marcus Davenport

The Saints know their offense is good enough to win a Super Bowl this season. All the questions in New Orleans surround the team’s ability to build a defense good enough to hold up their end of the bargain.

Someone other than Cam Jordan has to provide the team quality edge-rushing production to make that happen. Davenport has a lot of talent, but to date, his production hasn’t lived up to his potential. Look for that to change in 2020.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Ronald Jones

If you’re inclined to take Buccaneers’ coach Bruce Arians at his word then Jones is going to “carry the load” at running back for Tampa Bay this season. Tom Brady is going to throw the ball a ton, but he’ll need a quality rushing attack to keep him from overdoing things.

Jones has struggled with inconsistency as a pro, but he’s shown tantalizing ability at times. He should get a lot of touches in open space this season. Expect him to produce more than his share of big plays as a result.

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