As the 2024 NFL free agency period approaches, one name that is expected to draw significant interest is Javon Hargrave, the talented defensive tackle for the San Francisco 49ers. Hargrave, who has been a cornerstone of the 49ers’ elite defensive line since joining the team in 2023, is poised to be one of the most coveted free agents this offseason. With his ability to disrupt the quarterback, clog running lanes, and provide consistent pressure from the interior, Hargrave is sure to be a “popular target” for several teams around the league.
One division in particular where Hargrave is expected to be in high demand is the AFC East. Teams like the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, and New York Jets have all been searching for ways to fortify their defensive lines, and Hargrave’s potential departure from San Francisco opens the door for a bidding war for his services. This article takes a deep dive into why Hargrave will be one of the top targets in free agency and which AFC East teams are likely to make a strong push to secure his talents.
Javon Hargrave: A Dominant Force in the Middle
Before exploring the impact Hargrave will have on free agency, it’s important to understand just how impactful he has been during his NFL career. Hargrave, 31, began his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he earned a reputation as one of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the league. After four seasons in Pittsburgh, he signed a massive contract with the 49ers in 2023, adding another formidable piece to a defensive line that already included stars like Nick Bosa and Arik Armstead.
In his first season with the 49ers, Hargrave showcased his unique combination of size (6’2″, 305 pounds) and athleticism, registering 10 sacks, 60 tackles, and 13 tackles for loss. Hargrave’s ability to generate pressure up the middle allowed San Francisco’s defense to control the line of scrimmage, contributing to their top-ranked unit. His ability to penetrate gaps, collapse the pocket, and shut down the run game has made him a key asset in defensive schemes across the league.
Notably, Hargrave’s impact is felt in both the pass rush and the run game. In an era where interior defensive linemen are increasingly expected to contribute as pass rushers, Hargrave’s ability to affect the game on all fronts makes him a rare commodity. His presence on the field can completely alter the trajectory of an offense, forcing opposing quarterbacks to adjust their game plans and running backs to look for alternative lanes to attack.
Why the AFC East is Eyeing Hargrave
The AFC East has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, with several teams in the division looking to contend for the playoffs and, ultimately, the Super Bowl. As a result, teams in the AFC East are targeting high-impact players who can help elevate their rosters to elite status. Hargrave fits this profile perfectly, making him a coveted free agent in a division that has seen increased competition.
Let’s take a closer look at each AFC East team’s needs and why they will likely target Hargrave in free agency:
1. Miami Dolphins: A Defensive Upgrade is Essential
The Miami Dolphins have been one of the most exciting teams in the AFC, thanks to the dynamic play of Tua Tagovailoa and their high-powered offense. However, despite their offensive prowess, the Dolphins have struggled defensively, especially when it comes to stopping the run and generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
In particular, Miami has struggled to consistently disrupt the pocket from the interior of the defensive line. With defensive tackle Raekwon Davis showing flashes but not consistently dominating, Hargrave would immediately provide the Dolphins with a reliable force in the middle of their defense. His pass-rushing ability would complement the edge rush provided by players like Jaelan Phillips, and his ability to shut down the run would be a major asset for a defense that ranked 24th in yards allowed per carry in 2023.
The Dolphins’ need for a game-changing defensive tackle is clear, and they have the cap space to make a significant offer to Hargrave. Given Miami’s status as an emerging contender in the AFC, landing a player of Hargrave’s caliber could be the key to taking their defense to the next level.
2. Buffalo Bills: Super Bowl Contenders in Need of Defensive Help
The Buffalo Bills are firmly in the Super Bowl window with quarterback Josh Allen leading their offense, but they have faced a consistent issue: the inability to generate pressure from the interior of their defensive line. While edge rushers like Von Miller and Greg Rousseau are stars, the Bills have lacked a dominant presence up the middle since the departure of Star Lotulelei.
The Bills are in a win-now mode and could be looking to add a game-changer to their defense. Hargrave would fill that void perfectly. His ability to both pressure the quarterback and stop the run would provide the Bills with a well-rounded defensive tackle who could change the course of games. Furthermore, the AFC East has seen an influx of potent offenses, making a player like Hargrave a vital addition to Buffalo’s defense as they look to keep up with teams like the Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs.
Hargrave would likely thrive in Buffalo’s defensive system, which emphasizes aggressive play and the ability to control the line of scrimmage. The Bills’ defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier could use Hargrave in various ways, creating mismatches against opposing offensive lines.
3. New England Patriots: A New Chapter for the Defense
Under head coach Bill Belichick, the New England Patriots have historically built strong, dominant defenses. However, in recent seasons, the team has struggled to find consistent pressure up the middle. The departure of longtime stalwart Lawrence Guy has left a noticeable hole in the Patriots’ defensive line, and Hargrave could be the perfect player to step into that role.
Belichick values versatility, and Hargrave’s ability to play both the run and pass equally well would make him an excellent fit in New England’s scheme. Moreover, the Patriots need to revamp their defense if they are to remain competitive in the AFC East, with a rising Dolphins team and the playoff-contending Bills in the division.
Although New England has historically been more frugal in free agency, the acquisition of a top-tier talent like Hargrave could be a game-changer for Belichick’s defense. If the Patriots are serious about staying competitive in the division, they may pull the trigger on a major move for the defensive tackle.
4. New York Jets: A Dominant Defensive Line
The New York Jets boast one of the best defenses in the NFL, anchored by the likes of Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner. However, despite their strengths, they are still in need of a reliable, game-changing presence on the interior of the defensive line. Adding a player like Hargrave would not only strengthen their defense but also give them the ability to control games more effectively.
Hargrave would pair wonderfully with Williams to form one of the most formidable defensive tackle duos in the league. His ability to command double teams would free up Williams to exploit one-on-one matchups, and Hargrave’s ability to pressure the quarterback would make life difficult for opposing offenses. The Jets are building something special on defense, and adding Hargrave would elevate them to another level, giving them a potential championship-caliber unit.
The Bottom Line
As the 2024 NFL free agency period approaches, Javon Hargrave will undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after defensive players in the league. His unique skill set, combining powerful interior rushing with the ability to disrupt both the passing and running game, will make him a top target for several AFC East teams.
Whether it’s the Miami Dolphins looking to complete their defensive transformation, the Buffalo Bills attempting to strengthen their playoff push, the New England Patriots looking for a versatile defender to retool their defense, or the New York Jets aiming to create an even more dominant defensive front, Hargrave’s impact in the AFC East could be profound. Expect a bidding war for this talented defensive tackle, and the eventual team that lands him could very well become the new frontrunner in the AFC East.