As the 2024 NFL regular season reaches its conclusion, the final few playoff positions are at stake. Some teams are maneuvering for better playoff positioning, while others, including the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, have secured their spots and are focused on entering the postseason in good health. However, maintaining a complete and healthy roster for playoff games remains a challenge, with several teams already facing significant injury woes. There is optimism, however, in the form of several experienced veterans who could serve as valuable reinforcements for teams looking to make a deep playoff run. This group includes pass-rusher Yannick Ngakoue, recently released by the New England Patriots, and running back Ezekiel Elliott, who was let go by the Dallas Cowboys this week. Although it can be difficult for these players to integrate into new rosters and make immediate impacts, having seasoned depth can prove beneficial during the postseason.

One player whose situation has taken a downward turn is three-time Pro Bowl safety Jamal Adams. After being released by the Seattle Seahawks in the offseason, he was briefly signed by the Tennessee Titans before being cut in mid-October and, most recently, released from the Detroit Lions practice squad. There are valid questions regarding what the 29-year-old has left to offer, having played only 40 combined defensive snaps this season. Adams could fill a role as a hybrid defensive back-linebacker, providing situational pass-rushing value. His last season with significant production was in 2020, when he recorded 9.5 sacks. Notably, Washington Commanders linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. was Adams's defensive coordinator at Seattle during that year. With the Commanders tallying 41 sacks this season, they might benefit from adding Adams, particularly as depth at safety, linebacker, and edge-rusher. Similarly, the Green Bay Packers could consider Adams to bolster their safety unit, especially with injuries affecting players like Javon Bullard.

Meanwhile, right tackle La'el Collins has been available since the Buffalo Bills released him during final roster cuts in August. While Collins, 31, has faced challenges in recent years, including a torn ACL, he brings 71 career starts to any team seeking help on the offensive line. Although no teams currently exhibit a glaring need for a right tackle, the Kansas City Chiefs might find Collins beneficial for depth, given that guard Joe Thuney has been playing left tackle and right tackle Jawaan Taylor is dealing with a knee injury. Additionally, the Philadelphia Eagles might see Collins as an insurance option, particularly as their right tackle Landon Dickerson contends with past injuries. Collins previously played under Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore in Dallas, which could facilitate a smooth transition.