Biggest NFL x-factors for all 32 teams

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - OCTOBER 10: Danielle Hunter #99 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates in the second half against the Detroit Lions at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Detroit Lions 19-17. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – DECEMBER 12: Hayden Hurst #81 of the Atlanta Falcons completes a three-yard reception for a touchdown over the Carolina Panthers in the fourth quarter of the game at Bank of America Stadium on December 12, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Cincinnati Bengals: TE Hayden Hurst

You have to be impressed with the direction that defending AFC champions are headed in these days. A year ago, the Cincinnati Bengals surprised many by not only winning the AFC North but knocking off both the Titans and Chiefs on the road in the playoffs to reach Super Bowl LVI.

But the team did have a significant weakness and it cost them dearly against the Rams on Super Sunday. Cincinnati addressed the offensive line three times in free agency. But they also snared pass-catching tight end Hayden Hurst. His best year came in 2020 with the Falcons, when he totaled career highs in catches (56), receiving yards (571) and TD grabs (6). And his addition could take the sting out of losing C.J. Uzomah to the Jets in free agency.

Cleveland Browns: WR Amari Cooper

As of this writing, no one is quite sure who the starting quarterback will be for Kevin Stafanski’s club in Week 1 when the Browns visit Carolina. Then again, there’s a little uncertainty when it comes to the Panthers’ situation as well. That’s because Cleveland sent former first overall pick Baker Mayfield to Charlotte for a 2024 conditional draft choice.

What is certain is that wide receiver Amari Cooper (obtained via trade from the Cowboys) is now a member of Stefanski’s team. And considering the uncertainty at the Browns’ quarterbacking position – along with the departures of wide receivers Jarvis Landry and Rashard Higgins – the seven-year pro may have to come up with a career campaign.

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