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) /

5 of 16

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 04: Tyler Smith #OL48 of Tulsa runs a drill during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 04, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

Dallas Cowboys: OL Tyler Smith

The offensive line of the Dallas Cowboys has been the team’s focal point for success for many years. In 2020, this unit seemed to take a big of a dip. But there was a revival of sorts this past season as left tackle Tyron Smith and right guard Zack Martin had exemplary years.

Now this team has some new faces along that front. Left guard Connor Williams signed with the Miami Dolphins while right tackle Le’al Collins was a salary-cap casualty and joined the Cincinnati Bengals. It made sense that the team used in first-round draft choice in April on Tulsa’s Tyler Smith. He’s already shown a little versatility in OTAs and could wind up filling either Williams’ or Collins’ spot.

Denver Broncos: DL D.J. Jones

Yes, Russell Wilson is in the Mile High City. But there are also some new faces along the defensive front for the Denver Broncos, who look to get back to the playoffs for the first time since winning Super Bowl 50 in 2015.

The team was steady on defense last year – allowing the right-fewest total yards in the league. But the club was mediocre against the run (15th in the NFL). The Broncos managed a so-so 36 sacks and forced only 19 turnovers in 17 games.

But defensive lineman D.J. Jones helps the defense in numerous ways. A better push by the defensive front should help vs. the run. And Jones could make life easier for not only Bradley Chubb but former Cowboys’ edge rusher Randy Gregory as well.

Home/NFL