2024 AFC North Predictions

After months without NFL action, the highly anticipated 2024 season is fast approaching, and AFC North fans are buzzing with excitement. As week one draws near, the rivalry-packed division promises to deliver another year of intense battles. From the cool autumn air to the sound of bone-jarring hits, the AFC North is where grit and glory collide every Sunday. But before the first snap, it’s time to take a closer look at this stacked division. Which team will emerge as the king of the North? Who’s set to surprise? Get ready as we dive into the AFC North—where the road to the playoffs begins and fierce rivalries are reborn.

2024 AFC North: Breaking Down the Battles

In the AFC North, every game, every play, and every rivalry matchup carries immense weight. The 2024 NFL season will be no different, with the division set to deliver some of the most heated battles and unpredictable outcomes. From perennial contenders to potential underdogs, the AFC North promises drama, intensity, and plenty of storylines to follow. We’re breaking down what makes this division one of the most competitive in football. Let’s dive into the AFC North and see who’s poised to claim the crown in one of the NFL’s toughest divisions.

The Baltimore Ravens

The AFC North has always been home to fierce competition, and 2024 looks no different. Once again, the Baltimore Ravens are favorites to claim the division title, bolstered by the stunning addition of star running back Derrick Henry. While Henry's pedigree as a dominant force in the NFL is undeniable, there are some concerns surrounding his performance at age 30. History suggests that running backs over the age of 28 often experience a decline in production, especially after changing teams. However, the Ravens are built to mitigate any potential downturn.

Their defense remains one of the strongest in the league, capable of stifling even the best offenses. And let’s not forget the dynamic rushing ability of 2024 MVP Lamar Jackson, whose dual-threat capabilities make the Ravens offense incredibly hard to contain. Add to that the potential breakout of Zay Flowers, whose speed and playmaking ability could elevate the passing attack, and it’s clear the Ravens are in a strong position to top the AFC North once again. With all these pieces in place, Baltimore is primed for another deep run, but they’ll still face plenty of challenges from their divisional rivals.

The Pittsburg Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have enjoyed incredible consistency under head coach Mike Tomlin, avoiding a losing season throughout his tenure. However, 2024 could be a turning point. The Steelers face one of the toughest schedules in the NFL, and even more concerning is their uncertainty at quarterback. Pittsburgh made headlines by bringing in both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields during the offseason, with Wilson expected to start. Yet, Fields isn't one to sit on the bench quietly, making it a legitimate quarterback battle. And as the saying goes, "If you have two quarterbacks, you have none." This lack of a clear identity under center could create significant challenges for the Steelers' offense.

Additionally, the departure of their top wide receiver, Diontae Johnson, to the Panthers has left a major gap in the passing game. Now, the pressure is on George Pickens to step up and become the go-to target. While Pickens has shown promise, the question remains whether he can carry the load as the clear number one option. With these uncertainties at quarterback and in the receiving corps, coupled with their daunting schedule, the Steelers may struggle to keep pace in the AFC North this season. Tomlin’s resilience and leadership will undoubtedly be tested as Pittsburgh tries to navigate these challenges.

The Cincinatti Bengals

The Bengals struggled last season, finishing last in the AFC North, mainly due to injuries that derailed star quarterback Joe Burrow’s season. He started with a calf injury, which led to a slow start, and ended the year with a wrist injury. Backup Jake Browning took over, but it wasn’t enough to keep Cincinnati in contention. Heading into 2024, Burrow is expected to be fully healthy, giving the Bengals a much-needed boost. However, the team faces a new challenge: star wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase is holding out of practice in pursuit of a contract extension despite having two years left on his current deal. Chase has made it clear he wants to be the NFL’s highest-paid receiver, even if it’s just by a cent, which has caused some tension with the front office, who historically avoid midseason negotiations.

While Chase is undeniably one of the league’s top wideouts, his demand for the top contract may be premature, given that players like Justin Jefferson and CeeDee Lamb have had seasons where they’ve led the league in production, something Chase has yet to achieve. If the Bengals hope to be serious contenders this year, they’ll need to resolve this holdout quickly. With a healthy Burrow and Chase back on the field, Cincinnati could challenge for the AFC North crown, but for now, they remain just behind the Ravens in the race for the division title.

The Cleveland Browns

The Browns finished second in the AFC North last year with an impressive 11-6 record despite losing Nick Chubb and Deshaun Watson to injury. Their success was largely driven by one of the league’s best defenses, anchored by Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. Heading into 2024, Watson is expected to be fully healthy, but Chubb is set to miss several games after suffering a serious ACL and MCL injury, and it's uncertain when he'll return to full speed. This season is critical for Watson, who has yet to live up to the expectations that came with his massive contract after being traded from the Texans. So far, the Browns have been paying for underperformance at quarterback.

However, Cleveland has restructured Watson's contract, freeing up over $35 million in cap space. How the Browns choose to use that money could significantly impact their future success. While the defense remains elite, and Watson’s health gives the offense a boost, the uncertainty around Chubb’s recovery and Watson’s inconsistency may keep them from topping the division. For now, I have the Browns finishing third in the AFC North, behind the Ravens and Bengals.

AFC North 2024: Ravens Lead, Bengals and Browns in Pursuit

The Ravens have all the intangibles to win this division and once again make a deep playoff run. With Lamar Jackson healthy, a reinforced backfield, and a stout defense, they are the team to beat in the AFC North. The Bengals, with a healthy Joe Burrow, could challenge, but uncertainty around Ja’Marr Chase’s contract looms. The Browns' strong defense keeps them competitive, though Deshaun Watson’s performance remains a question mark. Meanwhile, the Steelers face challenges with a tough schedule and an unsettled quarterback situation, making them the least likely to contend for the division title.

Stay Informed on NFL Divisional Action with Gridiron Goal Post

As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, the AFC North’s fierce battles will keep us glued to our screens. Whether your team is poised to dominate or aiming to make a surprise run, this season promises excitement and drama. To keep up with every twist, turn, and triumph, make Gridiron Goal Post your go-to source. We’ll break down the action, celebrate the wins, and analyze each divisional clash. So, grab your snacks, don your lucky jersey, and join us for every thrilling moment of the NFL season—right here, where the game’s heartbeat echoes the loudest!