First look at NFL draft needs, notes and nuggets for all 32 teams: What you should know

There are just four weeks left in the 2021 NFL season, and while some teams are thinking about making the playoffs, others are looking ahead to the 2022 NFL draft. So, let’s turn our attention there for a moment.

The ESPN Football Power Index (FPI) projects the Lions and Texans to pick 1-2 in April, with the Jaguars, Jets and Giants not far behind. The Jets and the Giants, by the way, each have two first-round picks that are projected to be in the top 10. The Eagles, meanwhile, have three first-round picks thanks to the Carson Wentz trade. And even the Buccaneers, the FPI’s favorite to win the Super Bowl, have an eye to the 2022 draft class.

We asked our NFL Nation reporters for early insight into every team’s draft plans. What position(s) should each team focus on as a result of the 2021 season? Will we see trades involving picks for quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers, Deshaun Watson or Russell Wilson?

There is still a bunch of time between now and when Round 1 begins on April 28, but let’s start the draft conversation with the AFC East.

AFC EAST

Buffalo Bills

Projected first-round pick: No. 23

The Bills prioritized the pass rush in last year’s draft, but this season has shown that the interior of both the offensive and defensive lines could use some help. On the D-line, there are multiple older players whom the team might choose to move on from, and the O-line could use upgrades after recent draft picks haven’t worked out thus far, including 2019 second-round pick Cody Ford. Getting bigger up front on both sides of the ball should be a priority heading into the draft. — Alaina Getzenberg

Miami Dolphins

Projected first-round pick: No. 21

Once upon a time this season, it appeared the Dolphins made a horrible mistake by trading their first-round pick to the Eagles. But after this five-game win streak and the pick projected to be No. 10 overall, that decision is a lot more palatable.

Miami still owns the 49ers’ first-round pick and needs help on the offensive line, but it also will be flush with cash this offseason, and it might be wiser to solve the problem through free agency. Don’t be surprised to see general manager Chris Grier take a linebacker or simply the best player available when it comes to the Dolphins’ first selection. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

New England Patriots

Projected first-round pick: No. 29

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