Pressure does more than just burst pipes, as the cliché goes. In the NFL, it leads to firings, benchings, trades, and regret.
With less than 10 weeks until the start of the 2024 season, The Post is highlighting the 10 people (or duos) around the league who will face the most stress when the scores count. And it all begins right here in town…
1. Jets GM Joe Douglas/head coach Robert Saleh
It’s rare for a head coach to get a fourth season with an 18-33 record or a general manager to get a sixth season with a 27-56 record.
The Jets have missed the playoffs for 13 straight seasons.
Saleh is predicted to be the NFL’s first head coach fired in an offseason betting list.
With the Jets favored in 11 of their first 12 games, there’s no excuse for a slow start.
Aaron Rodgers is also under pressure as he returns from injury, but it’s unlikely the Jets will let him go if he wants to play beyond 2024.
2. Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy
It’s surprising McCarthy wasn’t let go after a disappointing end to last season.
McCarthy and others face pressure from the looming figure of Bill Belichick, waiting to take over a ready-made team.
Owner Jerry Jones must fulfill his promise to go “all-in” at some point.
3. Steelers QB Russell Wilson
Wilson needs to revitalize his career after a decline in performance.
It’s now or never for Wilson to return to his Hall of Fame potential.
4. Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa
Tagovailoa needs to play well to secure a lucrative contract.
He must prove himself as a difference-maker, not just a distributor.
5. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus
Eberflus secured his job with a strong finish last season and is now focused on developing rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
6. Falcons CEO Rich McKay/GM Terry Fontenot
The executives have made controversial decisions, including creating a quarterback controversy by signing Kirk Cousins.
7. Eagles RB Saquon Barkley
Barkley must prove himself with the Eagles after a contract dispute with the Giants.
He needs to show he was the missing piece in the offense and strengthen the market for other running backs.
8. Cowboys QB Dak Prescott
Prescott needs to overcome his playoff record and show he deserves a lucrative contract.
9. Texans WR Stefon Diggs
Diggs must perform well to exceed his previous contract and secure his future.
10. Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo
Anarumo needs to step up the Bengals’ defense to support quarterback Joe Burrow and the offensive weapons.
