There are thousands of NFL storylines this year, but few stand out to be thankful for. In this piece, I’ll take you through what we should be grateful for in this NFL season. Please, enjoy the holidays and be safe!
Storylines to Be Thankful for This Thanksgiving in the NFL
1. AFC West Competition
Not too long ago, the AFC West looked like the Kansas City Chiefs division for the next decade or so. Terrible coaching prevented the Los Angeles Chargers from ascending to their ceiling, a quarterback carousel kept the Denver Broncos from relevancy and the Las Vegas Raiders were, and still are so mismanaged that they were deemed one of the most hopeless franchises in the league. In just one year, much has changed.
Jim Harbaugh‘s arrival has quickly whipped the Chargers into shape. What many thought to be a less-talented roster compared to years past has surprised the NFL landscape with a 7-4 record through 12 weeks. His infectious attitude has completely changed the team’s mentality, as well as a change in offensive approach via offensive coordinator Greg Roman.
In Denver, Bo Nix‘s ascension has landed him firmly in Offensive Rookie of the Year discussions. His development has completely changed the team’s trajectory not only this season but for the future. The defense hasn’t lost a step and figures to be elite for at least the next couple of seasons.
For a division thought to be owned by Kansas City, great competition is definitely welcomed.
2. The Return of Jameis Winston
Being the NFL’s first overall pick in 2015, many expected Jameis Winston to have a long career as an NFL starter. They were right about him having a long career, however it hasn’t always been as a starter. After flaming out in Tampa Bay, he learned behind Drew Brees for a bit. Even in that role, Winston’s charisma showed, drawing teammates and fans alike to grow an appreciation for a guy who is always his true, authentic self.
After departing the New Orleans Saints for the Cleveland Browns this past season, no one knew if Winston would play at all in 2024. Due to a season-ending injury for Winston roughly halfway through the season, that’s exactly what happened. Winston has been starting since and hasn’t looked back. He’s rallied a tired and dejected fanbase to root for their team again, even without any playoff hope. An exhilarating snow game victory in primetime against the Pittsburgh Steelers this past Thursday is perhaps Winston’s crowning moment of the season. Regardless of the outcome, fans are just happy to see one of the game’s best characters back in a starting role.
3. The Health of J.K Dobbins
Back in 2020, J.K. Dobbins was the crown jewel of Ohio State’s backfield, finishing the season with over 2,000 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. After being selected in the second round, his dominance looked to be continuing during his rookie year. While gaining momentum in his second year, he tore his ACL, prematurely ending his 2021 season. Subsequent season-ending injuries ended his 2022 and 2023 campaigns, though he looked excellent when healthy.
With how plentiful running backs are in the league, it was no surprise that the Baltimore Ravens elected to let him walk in free agency. The Chargers picked him up later into free agency and haven’t looked back since. He’s been a key piece in the Chargers’ offense, rushing for nearly 70 yards a game. On this pace, he’s set to finish 2024 with just under 1,200 rushing yards and is an obvious finalist for the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award. Dobbins’ story is one of perseverance, hard work, and love for the game. Hats off to him.
Main Image: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
