NFL Free Agency: NFC West Betting Odds and Predictions

Following a strong 2023, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance, the San Francisco 49ers are the clear frontrunners in the NFC West, with odds at -215. Close on their heels, albeit at a distance, are the Los Angeles Rams, who managed to secure a spot in the playoffs last season, with their current odds at +380. The Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals are the online betting underdogs in this divisional race, with odds of +650 and +1200, respectively, reflecting their less favored status to top the NFC West.

Free agency can only do so much, so don’t count on the Cardinals to cash any future bets. But the Rams, and perhaps the Seahawks, have the potential to take a big step forward in 2024.

1. San Francisco 49ers

Notable free agents: Chase Young (EDGE), Tashaun Gipson (S)

Despite narrowly losing the Super Bowl to the Chiefs and boasting critical players in their prime, NFL rumors have it that the 49ers are facing financial constraints, spotlighting tough decisions ahead, especially regarding their high-cost wide receiver pair, Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. The offensive line also warrants attention, given Trent Williams’ advancing age (35) and Colton McKivitz’s struggles, leading the team with nine sacks allowed.

If his NFL MVP betting odds are anything to go by, the sportsbook doesn’t expect QB Brock Purdy to have quite an electric season. After almost winning the title in 2023, his NFL betting line of +1400 indicates a lack of faith among prognosticators.

On defense, the 49ers’ strategy relies heavily on a four-man pass rush, primarily shouldered by Nick Bosa, as they lack consistent edge rushers beyond him. With Chase Young, Clelin Ferrell, and Randy Gregory’s contracts expiring, the team faces potential voids, leaving only untested talents like Drake Jackson and rookie Robert Beal Jr.

Chase Young stands out as a valuable free agent with high potential. He recovered impressively with 7.5 sacks after an ACL injury and set a high price for potential suitors. These scenarios surrounding Young and the rest of this team’s free agents outline crucial areas for the 49ers to address, balancing maintaining depth and securing high-impact players.

With the Vegas betting odds at -215 for the 49ers to win the division, they lack value but are a safe bet to outpace the rest of the NFC West. They are the heaviest NFL betting favorites to win their division among other teams.

𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚#Bears have started to make calls to both free agents and other teams in the hopes of acquiring an edge rusher.

GM Ryan Poles really values the insight of QB Justin Fields who is said to be “pounding the table” for Chase Young. pic.twitter.com/DPEf3MGsNE

— NFL Notifications (@NFLNotify) May 15, 2023

2. Los Angeles Rams

Notable free agents: John Johnson II (S), Ahkello Witherspoon (CB), Coleman Shelton (C), Kevin Dotson (RG)

Matthew Stafford’s hefty contract, approaching $50 million annually over the next three years, necessitates restructuring, especially given the Rams’ youth-driven resurgence in 2023. With quality, cost-controlled talent on both offense and defense, their $40 million in cap space positions them for significant defensive upgrades.

The choice between bolstering the cornerback position and enhancing the outside linebacker squad is challenging.

The potential departure of veteran corner Ahkello Witherspoon, coupled with the inconsistency among younger secondary players, highlights a gap. However, with foundational parts like Aaron Donald, Kobie Turner, and Byron Young energizing the pass rush, acquiring an experienced outside linebacker could bring strategic completeness.

While the Rams’ free agency pool isn’t particularly stellar, players like Johnson offer valuable experience, notably in the safety role, potentially attracting attention on the market. Similarly, Witherspoon’s adaptability makes him a viable starter in various defensive setups.

PFF projected contract values for the Rams’ top free agents, including a $60 million deal for Kevin Dotson. Ahkello Witherspoon’s value came in lower than I expected. https://t.co/6QW4LhrHfF

— Cameron DaSilva (@camdasilva) March 7, 2024

3. Seattle Seahawks

Notable free agents: Leonard Williams (IDL), Bobby Wagner (LB), Jordyn Brooks (LB), Noah Fant (TE)

Under new head coach Mike Macdonald, the stage is set for a significant transformation, making them potential sleepers, especially if they secure a future quarterback with the No. 16 NFL draft pick. However, this new era comes at the cost of severing ties with veterans such as Pro Bowl defensive backs Jamal Adams and Quandre Diggs, alongside planning for Leonard Williams’ departure.

Linebackers emerge as a critical area for McDonald’s, indicating a significant overhaul to reinforce the core of offense and defense.

With the Seahawks parting ways with Pete Carroll, it appears Bobby Wagner, a Seattle legend, may have played his last game for the team, alongside Jordyn Brooks, facing free agency.

“3 #Seahawks free agents who could be forced into retirement,” according to Lee Vowell:

3. RG Phil Haynes [might not find a home].
2. LB Devin Bush [dropped to the bottom of his career].
1. LB Bobby Wagner [age].

[📷: Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports] pic.twitter.com/tXCqCvOtx1

— HawkMania (@hawkmania4) March 4, 2024

4. Arizona Cardinals

Notable free agents: Marquise Brown (WR), Antonio Hamilton (CB)

With $56 million in projected cap space, ranking fifth among NFL teams, and holding the No. 4 draft pick, the Cardinals are well-positioned to enhance Kyler Murray’s support system this year.

Last season’s shortage of options, highlighted by Marquise Brown’s injury and a lack of depth beyond James Conner and emerging tight end Trey McBride, underscores the need for a top-tier receiver. A talent like Marvin Harrison Jr. would be a significant boost if available at their draft position.

However, Arizona’s requirements extend beyond the offense. The defense, lacking a standout cornerback and an effective edge rusher for years, needs foundational pieces, starting with the defensive line.

The Cardinals are in dire need of an anchor to redefine their defensive strategy. While securing a player like Harrison would be a no-brainer for GM Monti Ossenfort, prioritizing the defensive line is equally critical to balance team needs and bolster overall performance.

Questions Of The Day