The 2024 NFL schedule will soon be announced, revealing which teams are set to face the most challenging slate of opponents this season. Warren Sharp, a well-respected NFL analyst, has compiled a list of the league’s 32 teams based on their strength of schedule, using projected win totals from Vegas oddsmakers.
According to Sharp, “With odds released for all 32 NFL teams, we are now able to calculate NFL Strength of Schedule using projected win totals from Vegas oddsmakers.”
The Pittsburgh Steelers lead the list with the hardest schedule, while other contenders like the New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, and Minnesota Vikings are not far behind. Here’s a closer look at these five teams facing the toughest challenges.
Pittsburgh Steelers Brace for Tough Season
The Pittsburgh Steelers, under head coach Mike Tomlin, are set to embark on their first season with Russell Wilson at quarterback. Despite winning 10 games last year, the Steelers face a grueling set of opponents in 2024. However, Tomlin has a proven track record of success, and Wilson could be the upgrade the team needs to navigate this difficult journey.
New England Patriots Face Challenges in Rebuilding
The New England Patriots are facing a rocky start to their new era, even after drafting quarterback Drake Maye third overall. The team’s offseason moves have been criticized, including not hiring an official general manager and promoting Jerod Mayo from within to replace Bill Belichick. Despite their cap space, roster improvements remain insufficient, and the Patriots may struggle to win more than three games.
𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝟓 𝐃𝐄𝐅𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐍𝐅𝐋
(𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭)1. Cleveland Browns
2. New York Jets
3. Kansas City Chiefs
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. San Francisco 49ers pic.twitter.com/zQgb5eMkZ0— NFL Notifications (@NFLNotify) May 6, 2024
Cleveland Browns Defense Shines, Deshaun Watson Struggles
The Cleveland Browns’ defense thrived under Jim Schwartz in 2023, finally reaching its potential. If Deshaun Watson can regain his form, the Browns could be a dangerous contender. However, Watson’s performance has been inconsistent so far, leaving fans unsure if he can deliver in 2024.
Baltimore Ravens Face Tough Road Ahead
The Baltimore Ravens’ schedule is challenging, as their six AFC North divisional games contribute to a high strength of schedule ranking. Despite Lamar Jackson’s MVP win last season, the team fell short in the playoffs. The Ravens will need to answer critical questions to overcome recent postseason struggles.
Minnesota Vikings Transition to McCarthy Era in the NFL
The Minnesota Vikings have entered a new era after drafting JJ McCarthy in 2024, replacing the Kirk Cousins era. With Sam Darnold and McCarthy in the QB room, head coach Kevin O’Connell must develop McCarthy into a franchise quarterback while guiding the team through their challenging schedule.
