Offseason no time to rest for those out of playoffs

	Once again, the Falcons need to find a coach who will best figure out a way to utilize Michael Vick's unique talents. Simon Bruty/SI

For the 20 teams not in the midst of game-planning for the NFL playoffs, the offseason officially commenced on New Year's Day. Here's an early team-by-team look at the most pressing issues facing the clubs who have already packed it in:

Arizona -- Round up the usual suspects. The Cardinals have another coaching search to conduct. Dennis Green is out, but the status quo batted .500, because VP of football operations Rod Graves was given a contract extension. Early rumors have Arizona eyeing Tennessee offensive coordinator Norm Chow. On the field, the offensive line will get heavy attention. Tackle Leonard Davis will be allowed to walk in free agency, and the Cards would love it if Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas lingers to No. 5.

Atlanta -- The Falcons coaching search will dominate the earliest days of the offseason, and then whomever they tap will set the course for the rest of it. Presumably, finding a way to best utilize Michael Vick's talents will again be at the top of the priority list, along with balancing out an offense that finished first in rushing and last in passing. Securing some consistency at receiver is a must if Vick is ever going to arrive as a top-shelf NFL passer.

Buffalo -- The Bills showed improvement in Dick Jauron's first season, but there are many deficiencies to address. Finding a run-stuffing defensive tackle to consistently hold the point of attack is job one. The Bills have to get bigger up front after giving up 141 yards rushing per game, and will likely let middle linebacker London Fletcher reach free agency. Running back Willis McGahee wants a contract extension, but he didn't do enough to earn one in 2006. Quarterback J.P. Losman could use another receiving threat to go with Lee Evans.

Carolina -- The Panthers' underachievement this season will spawn change, and that may start with the departure of offensive coordinator Dan Henning, who presided over a unit that finished last in the crucial category of third-down conversions (31.1 percent). Carolina might also bid farewell to defensive end Mike Rucker due to age and injuries, and can't be sure if it can count on linebacker Dan Morgan to return from his latest concussion. At quarterback, another veteran to either back up or compete with Jake Delhomme is needed.

Cincinnati -- The Bengals' .500 finish was a huge disappointment, and for the first time in his four-year tenure, coach Marvin Lewis will enter an offseason with increasing pressure coming to bear on him. The team's lack of off-field discipline has been a public-relations disaster, and on field, the defense is desperate for a leader and play-maker to build around. Look for Cincy to pursue a big-name free agent like linebacker Adalius Thomas as the centerpiece of its personnel upgrades.

Cleveland -- Browns owner Randy Lerner will decide the fate of coach Romeo Crennel in the coming days, but if Crennel returns, part of the deal will likely include changes to his staff. A veteran offensive coordinator could be sought to replace Jeff Davidson, and assistants Terry Robiskie and Ben Coates could be on their way out as well. Cleveland's offensive line is a mess, and the team should be a player in the veteran quarterback market, with Charlie Frye far from entrenched.