I`ll post the NFC later.
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys open training camp on July 24 at the River Ridge Residence Inn in Oxnard, California. Here's a closer look at the Cowboys' camp:
Top storyline: Can the Cowboys do it again? They surprised many with their 13-3 season in 2016 despite Tony Romo being relegated to spectator because of a compression fracture in his back. They enter this season with high expectations, thanks to a young core mixed with talented veterans. The Cowboys believe second-year stars Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott will not let success go to their heads, and veterans such as Jason Witten and Sean Lee can keep the team grounded in reality.
The Cowboys' theme is "recommit" as they look to post back-to-back seasons with double-digit victories for the first time since 1995-96. In 2015, the Cowboys followed up a 12-4 season with a disastrous 4-12 campaign, the second-worst of the Jerry Jones era. With the owner and general manager going into the Hall of Fame this summer, the Cowboys want to show they have staying power.
QB depth chart: A year ago, Prescott entered camp battling Jameill Showers for the No. 3 job behind Romo and Kellen Moore. Now Prescott has an Offensive Rookie of the Year award and Pro Bowl appearance to his credit. Moore, who missed last season with an ankle injury suffered the first week of camp, returns as the backup and has the blessing of coordinator Scott Linehan. Zac Dysert and Cooper Rush are in contention for the No. 3 spot, but the Cowboys might carry only two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.
Bubble watch: Wide receiver Brice Butler had a great offseason, but he must carry it into training camp to secure a roster spot. If Butler performs this summer as he did during the spring, the Cowboys' receiving corps would take a jump. Center/guard Joe Looney was active for every game last season, but with Jonathan Cooper taking center snaps in the spring, Looney's spot would be in jeopardy.
That rookie could start: The Cowboys took Taco Charlton in the first round so he could impact their pass rush. With David Irving due to miss the first four games because of suspension, Charlton will push for a starting spot at either defensive end spot. Don't be surprised if second-round pick Chidobe Awuzie works his way into the mix at cornerback.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Secondary as primary: The Cowboys lost more than 2,500 snaps with the free-agent defections of Brandon Carr, Barry Church, Morris Claiborne and J.J. Wilcox. The only major free-agent addition was cornerback Nolan Carroll. They are counting on improvement from within, from the likes of Jeff Heath, Byron Jones and Anthony Brown. Dallas also selected four secondary players in the draft. How quickly this group comes together in the summer will go a long way in determining the potential success this winter.
Still dominant: The Cowboys have boasted one of the best offensive lines in football the past three seasons, but they lost Ronald Leary to free agency and Doug Free to retirement. There are questions about Cooper at left guard and La'el Collins at right tackle, but the Cowboys believe the standard set by Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Zack Martin will lift the level of play of whomever fills out the line.
The Dallas Cowboys open training camp on July 24 at the River Ridge Residence Inn in Oxnard, California. Here's a closer look at the Cowboys' camp:
Top storyline: Can the Cowboys do it again? They surprised many with their 13-3 season in 2016 despite Tony Romo being relegated to spectator because of a compression fracture in his back. They enter this season with high expectations, thanks to a young core mixed with talented veterans. The Cowboys believe second-year stars Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott will not let success go to their heads, and veterans such as Jason Witten and Sean Lee can keep the team grounded in reality.
The Cowboys' theme is "recommit" as they look to post back-to-back seasons with double-digit victories for the first time since 1995-96. In 2015, the Cowboys followed up a 12-4 season with a disastrous 4-12 campaign, the second-worst of the Jerry Jones era. With the owner and general manager going into the Hall of Fame this summer, the Cowboys want to show they have staying power.
QB depth chart: A year ago, Prescott entered camp battling Jameill Showers for the No. 3 job behind Romo and Kellen Moore. Now Prescott has an Offensive Rookie of the Year award and Pro Bowl appearance to his credit. Moore, who missed last season with an ankle injury suffered the first week of camp, returns as the backup and has the blessing of coordinator Scott Linehan. Zac Dysert and Cooper Rush are in contention for the No. 3 spot, but the Cowboys might carry only two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.
Bubble watch: Wide receiver Brice Butler had a great offseason, but he must carry it into training camp to secure a roster spot. If Butler performs this summer as he did during the spring, the Cowboys' receiving corps would take a jump. Center/guard Joe Looney was active for every game last season, but with Jonathan Cooper taking center snaps in the spring, Looney's spot would be in jeopardy.
That rookie could start: The Cowboys took Taco Charlton in the first round so he could impact their pass rush. With David Irving due to miss the first four games because of suspension, Charlton will push for a starting spot at either defensive end spot. Don't be surprised if second-round pick Chidobe Awuzie works his way into the mix at cornerback.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Secondary as primary: The Cowboys lost more than 2,500 snaps with the free-agent defections of Brandon Carr, Barry Church, Morris Claiborne and J.J. Wilcox. The only major free-agent addition was cornerback Nolan Carroll. They are counting on improvement from within, from the likes of Jeff Heath, Byron Jones and Anthony Brown. Dallas also selected four secondary players in the draft. How quickly this group comes together in the summer will go a long way in determining the potential success this winter.
Still dominant: The Cowboys have boasted one of the best offensive lines in football the past three seasons, but they lost Ronald Leary to free agency and Doug Free to retirement. There are questions about Cooper at left guard and La'el Collins at right tackle, but the Cowboys believe the standard set by Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Zack Martin will lift the level of play of whomever fills out the line.
The New York Giants open training camp July 27 at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, N.J. Here’s a closer look at the Giants camp:
How the new-look offense takes shape: The Giants added wide receiver Brandon Marshall in free agency and tight end Evan Engram in the draft. Paul Perkins is now the starter at running back. We’ll see if it makes a significant difference for an offense that averaged a paltry 19.4 points per game last season.
Is the offensive line good enough? There is a good chance the Giants go with the same line that started most of last season. That leaves massive doubts about their tackles. Left tackle Ereck Flowers dropped weight this offseason, but will it translate to a better, more effective player? Also, how will free-agent signing D.J. Fluker fit into the mix? Will he fit into the mix? We’ll find out quickly this summer.
Defense’s next step: The Giants allowed the second-fewest points (17.8 ppg) last season, and there's potential for their defense to be even better in its second season together. The goal will be to keep this group healthy and find ways to integrate young players such as middle linebacker B.J. Goodson, safety Darian Thompson and defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson. Let's see if they dominate this summer.
QB depth chart: Eyes will be on the Giants’ quarterback position this year more than most, and it has little to do with Eli Manning. He remains the unequivocal starter. But behind him there is intrigue with third-round pick Davis Webb and former New York Jets starter Geno Smith now in the mix. Smith and veteran Josh Johnson are expected to compete for the backup job, and Webb probably will serve as the third-stringer this season as he makes the massive jump to a pro-style offense. All their performances this summer will be scrutinized.
Bubble watch: Smith might be a former second-round pick and starter, but he’s far from guaranteed a spot on the roster. He’s coming off a major knee injury and is learning a new offense. If he doesn’t perform well this summer, the Giants won’t hesitate to end the experiment. Smith’s contract included only $325K in guaranteed money for a reason. He's playing for a roster spot at training camp.
Rookies could start: Engram and Tomlinson are expected to contribute immediately. The Giants’ top two picks still need to prove capable of starting this summer. The Giants have players at tight end (Rhett Ellison, Will Tye and Matt LaCosse) and defensive tackle (Corbin Bryant, Jay Bromley and Robert Thomas) who will seriously compete for the jobs.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Top competition: Darian Thompson vs. Andrew Adams at free safety. Safeties coach David Merritt said this spring Adams earned the opportunity to be in the mix with the way he played last season as an undrafted rookie. He’ll have his work cut out for him, though. Thompson returns healthy, and the Giants are especially high on their 2016 third-round pick as a center fielder to play opposite Landon Collins. Thompson enters camp as the favorite, as long as his body cooperates.
The new middle linebacker: Goodson is slated to take over in the middle of the Giants' defense after a strong spring in which he proved capable of being the team’s play-caller. It’s the second-year linebacker’s job to lose. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will be watching closely to see if Goodson can help take his defense to the next level as an upgrade over last season's starter, Kelvin Sheppard.
The Philadelphia Eagles open training camp on July 27 at the NovaCare Complex in Philadelphia. Here’s a closer look at the Eagles camp:
Top storyline: Quarterback Carson Wentz enters training camp with the wind at his back. The deck was stacked against Wentz his rookie year, in some respects. He was handed the gig eight days before the start of the season, following the Sam Bradford trade, and he manned an offense that lacked sufficient firepower at the skill positions. Wentz is now ingrained in the role of QB and leader, and thanks to the work of the Eagles’ front office, he is surrounded by new talent, including wide receivers Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith and running back LeGarrette Blount. The environment is right for Wentz to take significant strides in his sophomore campaign.
QB depth chart: Wentz is firmly cemented at the top. Nick Foles, who threw 27 touchdowns and two interceptions for the Eagles during Chip Kelly’s first season as head coach in 2013, returns as a backup after spending last season with the Kansas City Chiefs in a similar role. Matt McGloin is No. 3.
Bubble watch: Linebacker Mychal Kendricks was the subject of trade discussions this offseason after he was used in a limited capacity by defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz last season. The Eagles are not particularly deep at linebacker, but given all the recent smoke, his status is at least worth keeping an eye on. Defensive end Marcus Smith II, a former first-round pick, is in jeopardy of being cut.
That rookie could start: Cornerback Rasul Douglas. The third-round pick out of West Virginia got plenty of reps with the first team this spring, taking over one of the outside corner spots in nickel situations. This team is thin at cornerback. With fellow rookie Sidney Jones still recovering from an Achilles injury, the door is open for Douglas (6-foot-2, 209 pounds) to contend for a starting gig opposite Jalen Mills.
Getting to know Alshon: Wentz and Jeffery were in the feeling-out period this spring, as one would occasionally zig while the other zagged during OTAs and minicamp. But when they were on the same page, the ball never hit the turf. That really stood out, especially after the Eagles' receivers led the league in drop rate last season. Jeffery was had one drop on 92 targets last season, per ESPN Stats & Info. With a huge catch radius and sticky hands, Jeffery can be a security blanket for Wentz. Now they just need to sync up.
Stout up front: Pro Football Focus recently rated the Eagles’ offensive line as the best in football. While the Cowboys and others might have something to say about that, the Eagles’ front is solid on paper. A few keys for that to translate through the season: 35-year old left tackle Jason Peters needs to stay healthy; right tackle Lane Johnson has to stay suspension-free; and center Jason Kelce needs to find the consistency that has eluded him the past two years.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Derek and the pass rush: The Eagles spent their first-round pick on edge rusher Derek Barnett, who broke Reggie White’s sack record at Tennessee. Schwartz’s defense is predicated on the front four getting home, and that didn’t happen enough last season. The Eagles need a player or two to step up and fill the all-important pass-rusher role, especially with Connor Barwin gone to the Rams. Veterans Vinny Curry and Chris Long will get their chances opposite Brandon Graham. Barnett will be a key player to watch this summer to see if he’s ready to join (or perhaps overtake) them on the big stage.
The Washington Redskins open training camp on July 27 at the Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center in Richmond, Virginia. Here’s a closer look at the Redskins’ camp:
Top storyline: It's quarterback Kirk Cousins and whether this will be his last season in Washington. The Redskins failed to reach a long-term deal with Cousins by the July 17 deadline, so now there’s a chance he will be a free agent in the 2018 offseason. He can aid himself by helping the Redskins maintain a strong passing attack despite the loss of receivers Pierre Garcon and DeSean Jackson. Make no mistake: Washington has firepower, but it also has two receivers with no experience (Terrelle Pryor) or very little (Josh Doctson) playing with Cousins. No excuses, though. If Cousins wants the (really, really) big bucks, he must deliver.
QB depth chart: The Redskins have a solid starter in Cousins and a smart backup in Colt McCoy. Cousins has started the past two seasons, setting franchise records in passing yards each season. McCoy has big fans in the organization. It's arm strength that separates the two quarterbacks. Second-year QB Nate Sudfeld, a 2016 sixth-round pick, struggled in training camp last summer. He must show this summer whether he is on track to develop into a future starter or just a backup.
Bubble watch: Receiver Brian Quick. The former Ram, coming off his best season (41 catches, 564 yards), didn’t look great in the spring, and it’s hard to imagine him cracking the Redskins’ top four. If he’s a back-end roster guy, special teams will come into play. Regardless, he’ll need a strong camp to earn a roster spot.
That rookie could start: The obvious one is first-round pick Jonathan Allen at defensive end, considering many would have picked him in the top five, had there been no concerns about his shoulders. Allen worked with the second and third units in the spring, but his talent suggests that he will be an early starter. Fourth-round running back Samaje Perine is another to watch.
Vet to watch: Linebacker Junior Galette. He missed the past two seasons with Achilles injuries, so despite being with Washington since the summer of 2015, he has yet to appear in a game. He shed 15 pounds in hopes it will help him maintain his explosion off the line despite the injuries. If he regains his form, Galette, who posted a combined 22 sacks in 2013 and '14 with New Orleans, could have a solid impact on the pass rush.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Key battle: Inside linebacker. The Redskins signed Zach Brown in the offseason, making him their highest paid inside linebacker. If he starts, he could be one of a possible seven new starters on defense. In the spring, Brown worked mostly with the second defense, though he and Mason Foster split time with the starters in minicamp. Brown’s speed and athleticism will get him on the field; he can help in their nickel package if nothing else. But who starts out of these three: Brown, Foster and Will Compton? Also, third-year Martrell Spaight will sneak into this race if he stays healthy. Coaches like him.
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears open training camp on July 26 at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois. Here’s a closer look at the Bears' camp:
Top storyline: There are really only two major storylines for the Bears in 2017. The first involves embattled head coach John Fox, whose record in Chicago is 9-23. Will the Bears fire Fox during or after the season? The second storyline pertains to rookie quarterback Mitchell Trubisky, whom Chicago drafted No. 2 overall in April. When will Trubisky -- the Bears' quarterback of the future -- be ready to take over the starting job? Everything else is basically window dressing. The Bears have missed the postseason nine of the past 10 years, and it will be a major upset if Chicago stays healthy and wins enough games to qualify for the playoffs this season. Chicago is still rebuilding, but you can’t properly rebuild until the head coach and starting quarterback are locked in for the foreseeable future. The Bears have a long way to go in that regard.
QB depth chart: Trubisky is the future, but right now the starting job belongs to veteran Mike Glennon, whom Bears general manager Ryan Pace guaranteed $16 million for 2017. Glennon, who took all the first-team reps in the offseason program, has been assured -- repeatedly -- that he’s the guy for now. Veteran Mark Sanchez -- guaranteed $1 million -- was the No. 2 quarterback before he suffered a knee injury prior to mandatory minicamp. Trubisky will begin camp as either the No. 2 or No. 3. Connor Shaw is the fourth quarterback on the roster. The Bears had planned to waive Shaw but decided not to when Sanchez got hurt.
Bubble watch: Veteran tight end Zach Miller is vulnerable after the Bears drafted Adam Shaheen in the second round. Miller is coming back from another foot injury and needs to have a productive and healthy camp to make the squad. Outside linebacker Lamarr Houston is scheduled to earn a base salary of $5.950 million, but he’s out of guaranteed money. That might be problematic for Houston, especially because the Bears are crowded at outside linebacker. Former first-round pick Kyle Fuller missed all of last season after a routine knee scope. The Bears spent money at cornerback in the offseason, signing Prince Amukamara and Marcus Cooper. Where that leaves Fuller is anyone’s guess at this point.
That rookie could start: Shaheen. The 6-foot-6, 277-pound tight end looked good in the offseason program. Chicago invested big dollars in free-agent tight end Dion Sims -- guaranteed $6 million in 2017 -- but Shaheen could give the Bears two starting-caliber tight ends. Of course, Shaheen played college ball at tiny Division II Ashland University, so he has to still prove he can do it at the NFL level when the pads go on. But so far, so good. Chicago is also high on running back Tarik Cohen, a fourth-round pick. He could spell Jordan Howard in the backfield.
Encore performance: The expectations are high for Howard, who last season finished second in the NFL in rushing yards (1,313). The amazing part about that is Howard wasn’t in great shape last season, partly because he didn’t expect to play so much. If you go back and watch the film, Howard actually left a lot of yards on the field. But he looked well-conditioned in the offseason program and should account for a large chunk of Chicago’s offense. Howard was one of only five rookies in NFL history to average at least 5.0 yards per carry on a minimum 250 rushing attempts. He also became just the fourth Bears player to rush for 1,300 yards in a season, joining Walter Payton, Matt Forte and Thomas Jones.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Now or never: The Bears have to find out whether receiver Kevin White is for real. The No. 7 overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft, White has played in just four regular-season games. After suffering two separate leg injuries (to the same leg), the Bears have no idea what to expect from White, who caught 109 balls in his final season at West Virginia. But he arrived in Chicago with limited experience running NFL-caliber routes, making all the time he’s missed even more costly. The Bears let receiver Alshon Jeffery walk away for nothing this offseason. The only way Chicago saves face after that move is for White to emerge.
The Chicago Bears open training camp on July 26 at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois. Here’s a closer look at the Bears' camp:
Top storyline: There are really only two major storylines for the Bears in 2017. The first involves embattled head coach John Fox, whose record in Chicago is 9-23. Will the Bears fire Fox during or after the season? The second storyline pertains to rookie quarterback Mitchell Trubisky, whom Chicago drafted No. 2 overall in April. When will Trubisky -- the Bears' quarterback of the future -- be ready to take over the starting job? Everything else is basically window dressing. The Bears have missed the postseason nine of the past 10 years, and it will be a major upset if Chicago stays healthy and wins enough games to qualify for the playoffs this season. Chicago is still rebuilding, but you can’t properly rebuild until the head coach and starting quarterback are locked in for the foreseeable future. The Bears have a long way to go in that regard.
QB depth chart: Trubisky is the future, but right now the starting job belongs to veteran Mike Glennon, whom Bears general manager Ryan Pace guaranteed $16 million for 2017. Glennon, who took all the first-team reps in the offseason program, has been assured -- repeatedly -- that he’s the guy for now. Veteran Mark Sanchez -- guaranteed $1 million -- was the No. 2 quarterback before he suffered a knee injury prior to mandatory minicamp. Trubisky will begin camp as either the No. 2 or No. 3. Connor Shaw is the fourth quarterback on the roster. The Bears had planned to waive Shaw but decided not to when Sanchez got hurt.
Bubble watch: Veteran tight end Zach Miller is vulnerable after the Bears drafted Adam Shaheen in the second round. Miller is coming back from another foot injury and needs to have a productive and healthy camp to make the squad. Outside linebacker Lamarr Houston is scheduled to earn a base salary of $5.950 million, but he’s out of guaranteed money. That might be problematic for Houston, especially because the Bears are crowded at outside linebacker. Former first-round pick Kyle Fuller missed all of last season after a routine knee scope. The Bears spent money at cornerback in the offseason, signing Prince Amukamara and Marcus Cooper. Where that leaves Fuller is anyone’s guess at this point.
That rookie could start: Shaheen. The 6-foot-6, 277-pound tight end looked good in the offseason program. Chicago invested big dollars in free-agent tight end Dion Sims -- guaranteed $6 million in 2017 -- but Shaheen could give the Bears two starting-caliber tight ends. Of course, Shaheen played college ball at tiny Division II Ashland University, so he has to still prove he can do it at the NFL level when the pads go on. But so far, so good. Chicago is also high on running back Tarik Cohen, a fourth-round pick. He could spell Jordan Howard in the backfield.
Encore performance: The expectations are high for Howard, who last season finished second in the NFL in rushing yards (1,313). The amazing part about that is Howard wasn’t in great shape last season, partly because he didn’t expect to play so much. If you go back and watch the film, Howard actually left a lot of yards on the field. But he looked well-conditioned in the offseason program and should account for a large chunk of Chicago’s offense. Howard was one of only five rookies in NFL history to average at least 5.0 yards per carry on a minimum 250 rushing attempts. He also became just the fourth Bears player to rush for 1,300 yards in a season, joining Walter Payton, Matt Forte and Thomas Jones.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Now or never: The Bears have to find out whether receiver Kevin White is for real. The No. 7 overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft, White has played in just four regular-season games. After suffering two separate leg injuries (to the same leg), the Bears have no idea what to expect from White, who caught 109 balls in his final season at West Virginia. But he arrived in Chicago with limited experience running NFL-caliber routes, making all the time he’s missed even more costly. The Bears let receiver Alshon Jeffery walk away for nothing this offseason. The only way Chicago saves face after that move is for White to emerge.
The Detroit Lions open training camp on July 31 at their practice facility in Allen Park, Michigan. Here’s a closer look at the Lions camp:
Top storyline: This is going to be fairly broad, but the 2017 season seems to be centered around one thing: Can the Lions go from a team trying to squeeze into the playoffs to one that can win the NFC North title for the first time in two decades and a playoff game for the first time in more than a quarter century? Everything around the franchise -- and its immediate future -- probably will revolve around that. There’s a lot tied into that too. Coach Jim Caldwell is entering the final year of his contract, and if things don’t go well this year, what might general manager Bob Quinn do? Caldwell was not Quinn’s hire, and while he appears to have a strong working relationship with Caldwell, would a season missing the playoffs and struggling change his mind? If Caldwell and the Lions are able to make the playoffs again -- and possibly win a division title and/or a postseason game along with that -- the franchise might finally be headed in a direction toward success for the first time since the mid-1990s.
QB depth chart: The starter is set in Matthew Stafford, who is entering his ninth season and on the verge of becoming one of the top 10 quarterbacks in the league. Behind him is the real competition, as second-year pro Jake Rudock and rookie Brad Kaaya will battle for the No. 2 spot -- and possibly only one roster spot. Rudock looked to be well ahead during the spring, but reps and preseason games are going to help determine this competition.
Bubble watch: Offensive guard Laken Tomlinson is going to be one to watch throughout camp. The former first-round pick has $1,212,296 in guaranteed money this season, so the Lions would take a small hit (and a total of $3,451,476 in dead money) if they let him go. With T.J. Lang and Graham Glasgow the probable starters at guard and Joe Dahl an all-purpose lineman who can fill in at either guard spot (or at tackle, in a pinch), it might come down to whether the Lions want to keep five interior offensive linemen. Quinn has shown he’s willing to make tough cuts when necessary, so pay attention to where Tomlinson ends up lining up during camp. Another thing that could factor in is Lang coming off hip surgery. The longer he is not able to practice (he’s expected to be back around the start of training camp), the better Tomlinson’s chances are to be on the roster.
That rookie could start: Barring something surprising, first-round pick Jarrad Davis should be Detroit’s middle linebacker from the get-go. He has taken almost every first-team rep there this spring, and the Lions have said he’s their middle linebacker of the future. Receiver Kenny Golladay is another player to keep an eye on, mostly in three-receiver sets. Golden Tate and Marvin Jones are the starting wideouts, but in a pass-happy offense that often employs three receivers, Golladay should get a lot of early work if he continues to progress from how he performed during spring.
Who, exactly, is protecting Stafford’s blind side? With Taylor Decker out for a while, who protects Stafford’s blindside is a big deal. The Lions have a lot of options -- but all come with questions. Greg Robinson is a former No. 2 overall pick who has the potential, but not the production to be effective. Cyrus Kouandjio should push Robinson, but he is coming off a hip injury. Corey Robinson also is coming off an injury. Cornelius Lucas is the wild card, as he has the most experience in the Lions' offense, although mostly at right tackle; he’s a more natural left tackle and should be in the middle of the competition, as well. But who wins the job is one of the few true starting position battles in camp.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Will the run game finally show up? In all his years as a head coach or offensive coordinator, Caldwell has never had a run game ranked higher than No. 26 in the league, even though he had Ray Rice and Joseph Addai at points in Baltimore and Indianapolis. But Caldwell continues to extol the importance of having a strong run game. The Lions focused a lot of energy on improving the blocking for Ameer Abdullah (signing Lang, Rick Wagner and Darren Fells). Abdullah seems to be fine coming off his Lisfranc surgery last season, and he has shown the promise to be the dynamic rusher the Lions need. The question is whether the Lions will be able to reverse a trend under Caldwell and actually have a strong run game for the first time since Reggie Bush was a 1,000-yard rusher in 2013.
GREEN BAY, Wis. -- The Green Bay Packers report to training camp July 26 at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin, and practice for the first time July 27 at Ray Nitschke Field in Green Bay. Here's a closer look at the Packers' camp:
Top storyline: If the Packers don't come out of training camp with at least one new starting cornerback, then something probably went disastrously wrong. They signed veteran free agent Davon House, who began his career with the Packers and has returned after two seasons with the Jaguars, and used their top pick on the athletic Kevin King. One or both should start if the Packers hope to radically improve their passing defense, which ranked 31st in the NFL last season.
That doesn't mean Damarious Randall, Quinten Rollins and LaDarius Gunter should be banished to the bench, but look for Randall and Rollins to play more in the slot this season. As for Gunter, who became the team's default No. 1 corner last season after injuries ravaged the position, he should perform better if he's not asked to cover the top opposing receiver week in and week out.
QB depth chart: The Packers didn't trade Brett Hundley this offseason, and unless another team loses its starter in the preseason, it looks like Hundley will back up Aaron Rodgers for another year. There's a good chance that before next season, the Packers will trade Hundley, a 2015 fifth-round selection who should net them a higher draft pick. Whether they keep a third quarterback on the roster this season depends on whether Joe Callahan can build off last summer's stellar play or whether BYU rookie Taysom Hill challenges Callahan.
Bubble watch: Last year, the Packers kept seven receivers on their opening-day roster. They could do so again, but will fourth-year pro Jeff Janis be among them? With another solid class of incoming receivers led by seventh-round pick Malachi Dupre, who excelled during the offseason program, Janis could be on the roster bubble, especially if the Packers think their special-teams unit can sustain losing him.
That rookie could start: In addition to King, the Packers are going to have to find a way to get fellow second-round pick Josh Jones on the field if he continues his playmaking ways from the OTAs. The safety from NC State could see time at inside linebacker as well as in the secondary in a hybrid role.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Bennett for Cook: Last year, it took Rodgers some time to gel with Jared Cook, in part because of injuries to the tight end. Martellus Bennett is this year's Cook -- a veteran free-agent tight end who's expected to add something dynamic to the offense. How quickly Rodgers and Bennett connect could determine how effective the Packers are coming out of the gates to start this season.
Contract watch: At some point, the Packers are going to have to extend Rodgers' contract even though he has three more seasons left on his current deal. His stellar play combined with the exploding quarterback market have made the deal undervalued. Could a new deal be done in training camp? Typically the Packers like to get a contract extension or two completed with a veteran before the start of the regular season. Among those in line for extensions are Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Davante Adams and Corey Linsley.
The Minnesota Vikings open training camp on July 23 at Minnesota State University in Mankato, Minnesota. Here's a closer look at the Vikings' camp:
Top storyline: The Vikings will try to forge a new offensive identity in 2017 after saying goodbye to Adrian Peterson and bringing in two new running backs to replace their all-time leading rusher. Latavius Murray and Dalvin Cook figure to be featured in the backfield, but the Vikings won't funnel their offense through their ground game the way they did with Peterson. They'll involve their backs in the passing game, enlist the services of Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen and hope for an improvement from Laquon Treadwell, as they try to improve the league's fifth-worst offense from 2016 and make a decision on Sam Bradford's future.
QB depth chart: Bradford enters the year as the starter, with Case Keenum and Taylor Heinicke fighting for the No. 2 spot behind him. Teddy Bridgewater is still working his way back from the knee injury he suffered last Aug. 30, and he figures to start the year on the physically unable to perform list, as the Vikings move forward with Bradford as their starter for 2017. The 29-year-old Bradford is a free agent after the season, and his play this year will likely determine if he receives a contract extension.
Bubble watch: Wide receiver Jarius Wright received a four-year contract extension before the start of the 2015 season, but caught only 11 passes a year ago and could be in a fight for playing time with Treadwell, Michael Floyd and rookies Rodney Adams and Stacy Coley. He appeared to fall out of favor in the Vikings' offense a year ago, and carries a $3.138 million cap figure for 2017, so the Vikings could part ways with the 2012 fourth-rounder if they're confident in their receiver depth.
That rookie could start: Cook got plenty of work with the first-team offense while Murray rehabbed from ankle surgery during the Vikings' spring program. The second-round pick from Florida State should have a significant role in the offense, both as a runner and receiver; coach Mike Zimmer said at the end of the offseason program he believes Cook "has a chance to be special."
<article class="ad-300"></article>Offensive line takes shape: The Vikings still have to figure out what they'll do at center and right guard, after drafting Pat Elflein in the third round and contemplating the possibility of starting Nick Easton at center, but they hope they'll have a sturdier group in front of Bradford than the one they fielded a year ago. Riley Reiff will start at left tackle and Mike Remmers will play right tackle after the Vikings gave the two free agents a combined $36.8 million guaranteed. The team had the league's worst running game a year ago, and the line improvements were especially targeted to improve the offense on the ground.
Alexander gets a shot in the slot: As the Vikings try to replace Captain Munnerlyn at nickel cornerback, they'll take a long look at second-year corner Mackensie Alexander, whom Zimmer praised this offseason after a trying rookie season. The Vikings liked Alexander as a cover corner when they drafted him in the second round out of Clemson, and he could be counted on early in the season, when the Vikings face Drew Brees, Ben Roethlisberger and Jameis Winston during the first three weeks of the year.
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons open training camp July 27 at their headquarters in Flowery Branch, Georgia. Here's a closer look at the Falcons' camp:
Top storyline: The health of key players such as All-Pro wide receiver Julio Jones, Pro Bowl cornerback Desmond Trufant and first-round draft pick Takk McKinley. Jones said he plans to be fully ready to go after undergoing surgery on his left foot March 6, a procedure the team said would sideline Jones for four to five months. Jones did some light running during minicamp. Trufant is back in action after missing the second half of last season following pectoral surgery. He did some light work during minicamp. Meanwhile, the rookie pass-rusher McKinley had pre-draft shoulder surgery, and coach Dan Quinn said McKinley's training camp status would be determined once he reports.
The battle at right guard between Wes Schweitzer and Ben Garland is also a storyline to follow, with both players splitting reps during minicamp and no clear-cut favorite emerging.
QB depth chart: The Falcons have stability with reigning MVP Matt Ryan, who hasn't missed a game since 2009. Ryan finished with a league-best 117.1 passer rating last season while completing 373 of 534 passes for 4,944 yards with 38 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. Veteran Matt Schaub is the insurance policy, and the Falcons kept just those two on the active roster.
Bubble watch: Not saying the Falcons will cut ties with Jalen Collins, who started in place of Trufant last season, but Trufant's return from injury, the emergence of C.J. Goodwin and the drafting of corner/safety Damontae Kazee leave questions about Collins' role. Trufant and Robert Alford are the starters. Goodwin made plays in the Super Bowl, while Collins struggled. Collins, a former second-round pick, has to play well this preseason and show up on special teams.
That rookie could start: McKinley, if healthy, is expected to be a major contributor, but that doesn't mean he'll start. He could be more of a pass-rush specialist. Linebacker Duke Riley is the guy to watch. The third-round pick from LSU brings more speed to the group, and Quinn talked about aligning Riley with former college teammate Deion Jones and De'Vondre Campbell in a base look. Plus, Riley could push to stay on the field in nickel situations. Riley is certainly working hard for it.
<article class="ad-300"></article>On the money: Devonta Freeman is going to get paid. Expect a deal to happen either before or during training camp, with Freeman having one year and $1.797 million left on his contract. The two-time Pro Bowl running back continues to be patient. Once he signs a long-term deal, it's up to Freeman to maintain a high level of play. He has put together a combined 3,180 yards rushing and receiving and 27 touchdowns over the past two seasons.
Encore performance? Vic Beasley Jr. led the league with 15.5 sacks last season. His buddy, Von Miller, who finished second last season (13.5), is aiming for the top spot. The two worked together this offseason during a pass-rush summit at Stanford. We'll see if spending time with Miller will take Beasley's game to an even higher level.
The Atlanta Falcons open training camp July 27 at their headquarters in Flowery Branch, Georgia. Here's a closer look at the Falcons' camp:
Top storyline: The health of key players such as All-Pro wide receiver Julio Jones, Pro Bowl cornerback Desmond Trufant and first-round draft pick Takk McKinley. Jones said he plans to be fully ready to go after undergoing surgery on his left foot March 6, a procedure the team said would sideline Jones for four to five months. Jones did some light running during minicamp. Trufant is back in action after missing the second half of last season following pectoral surgery. He did some light work during minicamp. Meanwhile, the rookie pass-rusher McKinley had pre-draft shoulder surgery, and coach Dan Quinn said McKinley's training camp status would be determined once he reports.
The battle at right guard between Wes Schweitzer and Ben Garland is also a storyline to follow, with both players splitting reps during minicamp and no clear-cut favorite emerging.
QB depth chart: The Falcons have stability with reigning MVP Matt Ryan, who hasn't missed a game since 2009. Ryan finished with a league-best 117.1 passer rating last season while completing 373 of 534 passes for 4,944 yards with 38 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. Veteran Matt Schaub is the insurance policy, and the Falcons kept just those two on the active roster.
Bubble watch: Not saying the Falcons will cut ties with Jalen Collins, who started in place of Trufant last season, but Trufant's return from injury, the emergence of C.J. Goodwin and the drafting of corner/safety Damontae Kazee leave questions about Collins' role. Trufant and Robert Alford are the starters. Goodwin made plays in the Super Bowl, while Collins struggled. Collins, a former second-round pick, has to play well this preseason and show up on special teams.
That rookie could start: McKinley, if healthy, is expected to be a major contributor, but that doesn't mean he'll start. He could be more of a pass-rush specialist. Linebacker Duke Riley is the guy to watch. The third-round pick from LSU brings more speed to the group, and Quinn talked about aligning Riley with former college teammate Deion Jones and De'Vondre Campbell in a base look. Plus, Riley could push to stay on the field in nickel situations. Riley is certainly working hard for it.
<article class="ad-300"></article>On the money: Devonta Freeman is going to get paid. Expect a deal to happen either before or during training camp, with Freeman having one year and $1.797 million left on his contract. The two-time Pro Bowl running back continues to be patient. Once he signs a long-term deal, it's up to Freeman to maintain a high level of play. He has put together a combined 3,180 yards rushing and receiving and 27 touchdowns over the past two seasons.
Encore performance? Vic Beasley Jr. led the league with 15.5 sacks last season. His buddy, Von Miller, who finished second last season (13.5), is aiming for the top spot. The two worked together this offseason during a pass-rush summit at Stanford. We'll see if spending time with Miller will take Beasley's game to an even higher level.
The Carolina Panthers open training camp on July 26 at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Here’s a closer look at the Panthers' camp:
Top storyline: As quarterback Cam Newton goes, so go the Panthers. When Newton had an MVP season in 2015, the Panthers went to the Super Bowl. When he had statistically the worst season of his career in 2016, the team struggled and missed the playoffs after capturing three consecutive NFC South titles. Newton had offseason surgery to fix a partially torn rotator cuff, so training camp will be the first big test to see if the problem has been corrected. The Panthers added more weapons in first- and second-round draft picks Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel. Their presence will give the 6-foot-5 quarterback more opportunities to get rid of the ball quicker and take fewer hits ... and to give him fewer reasons to run. It’s an evolution for Newton and the offense, and how well that adaptation process goes will largely determine how well the Panthers do this season.
QB depth chart: Newton is coming off shoulder surgery, and the Panthers want their franchise quarterback to run less in order to safeguard his long-term health. Beyond that, nothing has changed from the past three seasons. Derek Anderson remains entrenched as the veteran and capable backup. Joe Webb is back as a third quarterback/wide receiver/special-teams player.
Bubble watch: The message that place-kicker Graham Gano needed to step up came on the third day of the draft, when the Panthers selected Harrison Butker out of Georgia Tech in the seventh round. It was the first time the Panthers drafted a place-kicker. Gano missed several big kicks that had a drastic impact on last season’s 6-10 record, and he made just 78.9 percent of his field goals.
That rookie could start: Taylor Moton. The second-round pick out of Western Michigan might be a long shot to start at right tackle, but with the future of Michael Oher uncertain and 2015 fourth-round pick Daryl Williams still somewhat unproven, Moton might get an opportunity. He impressed coaches during offseason workouts with his ability to play right and left tackle. Moton could be a year away, but if he impresses when the pads are on, he’ll have a chance to start now.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Kelvin Benjamin's weight: Much, probably too much, was made of the 6-foot-5 wide receiver being overweight at the start of offseason workouts. The last time that happened was two years ago, and Benjamin reported to training camp in the best shape of his career. He was arguably the MVP of that 2015 camp before suffering a season-ending knee injury. If Benjamin can return to that form and be pushed by the other receiving weapons the Panthers have added, he could be in for a big season.
Contract issues: In 2016, Greg Olsen became the first tight end in NFL history to record three consecutive seasons with 1,000 receiving yards. He wants a restructured deal to reflect that accomplishment, even though his current contract doesn’t expire until after the 2018 season. Outside linebacker Thomas Davis, 34, entering the final year of his deal, also would like an extension. These are two key players and leaders, so look for the front office to do all it can to keep them happy.
The New Orleans Saints open training camp on July 26 at their practice facility in Metairie, Louisiana. Here's a closer look at the Saints' camp:
Top storyline: The two most important things the Saints need to accomplish this summer involve revamping the defense and replenishing the banged-up offensive line. But the most compelling storyline will be the revival of Adrian Peterson.
One of the NFL's all-time great running backs is determined to prove he's not close to being finished at age 32, despite missing most of last year with a torn meniscus in his knee. Peterson is especially motivated since the Minnesota Vikings let him go after 10 years, and he had to settle for a bargain deal with the Saints that would entail sharing time with Mark Ingram. Peterson has received rave reviews from his new teammates so far, but we'll be able to gauge his progress even better once the pads come on.
QB depth chart: Speaking of future Hall of Famers determined to outrun Father Time, Drew Brees is still thriving at 38. He led the NFL for the seventh time with 5,208 passing yards last season. Brees is heading into the final year of his contract, but he has given every indication that he plans to stay in New Orleans as long as he's wanted.
This position group would have been much more dramatic if the Saints had drafted Patrick Mahomes II in the first round (which came close to happening). But the Saints did upgrade their backup spot by bringing back 30-year-old Chase Daniel to replace Luke McCown. Third-year pro Garrett Grayson and fifth-year pro Ryan Nassib will battle to obtain a developmental spot on the 53-man roster.
Bubble watch: At least one or two prominent linebackers will probably miss the cut for the Saints, who have loaded up on depth to revamp the position. Stephone Anthony, a 2015 first-round pick, is in jeopardy if he doesn't show marked improvement under new linebackers coach Mike Nolan or fails to become a special-teams asset. Veterans Dannell Ellerbe and Manti Te'o need to prove they can stay healthy to secure spots on a roster that also includes newly signed A.J. Klein, newly drafted Alex Anzalone, last year's leading tackler Craig Robertson and versatile backup Nate Stupar, among others.
That rookie could start: The obvious answer is cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who was the 11th pick in the draft and fills a glaring need. But as he just turned 21 and started only one full year at Ohio State, the dynamic speedster may still need seasoning. Second-round safety Marcus Williams -- a ball-hawking center fielder -- saw more time with the first string during OTAs and minicamp in three-safety sets. Chances are, both of them will see plenty of playing time for a secondary in need of more playmakers.
Line dancing: The Saints' offensive line took some big hits this offseason, with the two best players requiring surgeries. Left tackle Terron Armstead could be out for months, if not the whole season, because of shoulder surgery. The Saints are hoping center Max Unger can return from foot surgery before Week 1. It will be interesting to see how the Saints replace Armstead, arguably one of the top three talents on the entire roster. The most likely move would be to slide third-year pro Andrus Peat from left guard to left tackle (his natural position). But first-round draft pick Ryan Ramczyk could make a push for the job if he impresses during training camp.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Replacing Cooks: The boldest move New Orleans made this offseason was trading big-play receiver Brandin Cooks to the New England Patriots for the 32nd pick in the draft. They feel confident their offense is still deep and dynamic enough to rank among the NFL's elite (much like when they traded Jimmy Graham two years ago). The Saints signed another dynamic speedster in free agency, Ted Ginn Jr., to help replace Cooks' deep-threat abilities. They'll also count heavily on starters Michael Thomas and Willie Snead. The big, physical Thomas had one of the greatest rookie seasons of any receiver in NFL history, recording 92 catches for 1,137 yards and nine touchdowns in 15 games played.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers open training camp on July 28 at One Buccaneer Place in Tampa, Florida. Here's a closer look at the Bucs camp:
Top storyline: After finishing 9-7 last season and being chosen for HBO's "Hard Knocks" for the 2017 season, the Bucs are getting rare national attention, and even consideration for the NFC South title. Snagging wide receiver DeSean Jackson in free agency and tight end O.J. Howard in the draft has upped expectations for a team that hasn't reached the playoffs since 2007 -- tied for the fourth-longest streak in the NFL. Can the Bucs handle life under the microscope? Can quarterback Jameis Winston take the next step in that all-too-crucial third year as a starting quarterback? The team is giving him every opportunity to succeed with a ton of new weapons.
QB depth chart: The Bucs signed Ryan Fitzpatrick late this offseason to replace Mike Glennon as the backup QB, giving the team much-needed experience behind Winston. This is the first time in Winston's NFL career that he'll have a true veteran helping him. After that, the Bucs will have to make a decision regarding Ryan Griffin, who has been their third quarterback the past two seasons but has yet to take a regular-season snap. They carried three quarterbacks on the active roster last season, but coach Dirk Koetter is leaning toward two. Griffin, 27, is no longer practice-squad eligible.
Bubble watch: The Bucs have more depth at a number of key positions than they have had in the past. At nickel cornerback, Robert McClain was brought in to compete with Jude Adjei-Barimah and Javien Elliott, who started 10 and five games last season, respectively. There are also a number of receivers vying for the fifth and final spot behind Jackson, Mike Evans, Adam Humphries and rookie Chris Godwin; Donteea Dye, Bernard Reedy, Josh Huff, Freddie Martino and Derel Walker look like the most serious contenders. Special-teams ability will play a big role in determining that final spot.
That rookie could start: Howard took mostly second-team reps during mandatory minicamp but should get more work with the starters in training camp. It really isn't a matter of him "beating out" Cameron Brate as a starter -- it's more like 1A and 1B. They have different roles in this offense, with Brate serving as a pass-catcher, while Howard lines up as both a run-blocker and a receiver. Look for more two-tight-end sets this season to showcase their talents. Howard also has the size to be able to catch passes across the middle in traffic, something the Bucs' offense has been sorely lacking.
D-line health concerns: The Bucs had a number of players sidelined this offseason, so health will be a concern, especially along the defensive line. Two of their top pass-rushers, Jacquies Smith and Noah Spence, have not taken a snap this offseason because of injuries. Smith has been rehabbing a torn ACL and Spence had surgery to repair a torn labrum. George Johnson missed all of last season because of a fractured hip. At safety, rookie Justin Evans, a second-round draft pick, missed mandatory minicamp and several OTAs because of an undisclosed injury, and Adjei-Barimah also has been sitting out. Rookie running back Jeremy McNichols continues to recover from shoulder surgery.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Kicking competition: There will be a kicking battle, and it will carry into the preseason. The Bucs signed veteran Nick Folk to compete with 2016 second-round draft pick Roberto Aguayo. The two participated in friendly contests throughout the offseason, with both drilling kicks from 50-plus yards on the final day of minicamp. Folk went 27-of-31 (87.1 percent) on field goals last season. Aguayo struggled, making 22-of-31 (71 percent), the lowest percentage of any kicker in the league. Folk's ability from 40-plus yards, an area of concern for Aguayo, could ultimately be the difference-maker. Folk went 3-for-3 on field goals from 40 to 49 yards, tied for best in the league, while Aguayo went 4-of-10.
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The Arizona Cardinals open training camp on July 22 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Here's a closer look at the Cardinals' camp:
Top storyline: Sure, there are individual position battles that will be captivating, but the top storyline heading into this year's training camp will be how -- and if -- the Cardinals can put last season's underachieving 7-8-1 record behind them as they try to make what could be their last Super Bowl run with their current core. This time a year ago, the Cardinals weren't just the favorites to win the NFC, they were among the favorites to win the Super Bowl. Now they're afterthoughts when it comes to predicting who will hoist the Lombardi Trophy, and that's OK by them. But how well they can translate that underdog mentality into on-field production will determine how this season will go. Like last season, they're returning a roster well-equipped to win another division title and make a run deep into the playoffs.
QB depth chart: As long as starter Carson Palmer is healthy, he'll be on the field. Behind him, however, is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into training camp as Drew Stanton and Blaine Gabbert will compete for the backup job.
Bubble watch: Kareem Martin has steadily progressed at outside linebacker since making the conversion from defensive tackle in 2015, but with the presence of Chandler Jones and Markus Golden, the drafting of Haason Reddick -- a former defensive end who can also rush the passer from the edge -- and the signing of free agent Jarvis Jones, Martin might be at risk of being cut this camp.
That rookie could start: With one rookie -- first-round pick Reddick -- already expected to start, the other rookie who could start is safety Budda Baker. The second-round pick has the versatility to play nickel or base safety, which could help him see the field early and often. He'll likely be a starting nickel safety by Week 1.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Fitz's finale? It doesn't matter that the season hasn't begun. One of the hottest topics this season will be whether it's the last for Larry Fitzgerald. He took about a month to decide whether he was playing in 2017, and he said this offseason that he'll address his future once -- during training camp. Regardless of what he says, his playing future will be a constant topic whether he likes it or not.
Badger's back: This season might be more important for Tyrann Mathieu than anyone on the roster. For the third time in four years, the Honey Badger is coming off a season that ended on injured reserve. The Cardinals have committed big money to the fifth-year safety, and now they want their return on investment. Mathieu says he's healthy and ready to go, and he was practicing without a knee brace -- all signs the Honey Badger could be back. But only time will tell.
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The Arizona Cardinals open training camp on July 22 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Here's a closer look at the Cardinals' camp:
Top storyline: Sure, there are individual position battles that will be captivating, but the top storyline heading into this year's training camp will be how -- and if -- the Cardinals can put last season's underachieving 7-8-1 record behind them as they try to make what could be their last Super Bowl run with their current core. This time a year ago, the Cardinals weren't just the favorites to win the NFC, they were among the favorites to win the Super Bowl. Now they're afterthoughts when it comes to predicting who will hoist the Lombardi Trophy, and that's OK by them. But how well they can translate that underdog mentality into on-field production will determine how this season will go. Like last season, they're returning a roster well-equipped to win another division title and make a run deep into the playoffs.
QB depth chart: As long as starter Carson Palmer is healthy, he'll be on the field. Behind him, however, is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into training camp as Drew Stanton and Blaine Gabbert will compete for the backup job.
Bubble watch: Kareem Martin has steadily progressed at outside linebacker since making the conversion from defensive tackle in 2015, but with the presence of Chandler Jones and Markus Golden, the drafting of Haason Reddick -- a former defensive end who can also rush the passer from the edge -- and the signing of free agent Jarvis Jones, Martin might be at risk of being cut this camp.
That rookie could start: With one rookie -- first-round pick Reddick -- already expected to start, the other rookie who could start is safety Budda Baker. The second-round pick has the versatility to play nickel or base safety, which could help him see the field early and often. He'll likely be a starting nickel safety by Week 1.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Fitz's finale? It doesn't matter that the season hasn't begun. One of the hottest topics this season will be whether it's the last for Larry Fitzgerald. He took about a month to decide whether he was playing in 2017, and he said this offseason that he'll address his future once -- during training camp. Regardless of what he says, his playing future will be a constant topic whether he likes it or not.
Badger's back: This season might be more important for Tyrann Mathieu than anyone on the roster. For the third time in four years, the Honey Badger is coming off a season that ended on injured reserve. The Cardinals have committed big money to the fifth-year safety, and now they want their return on investment. Mathieu says he's healthy and ready to go, and he was practicing without a knee brace -- all signs the Honey Badger could be back. But only time will tell.
The Los Angeles Rams open training camp July 29 on the campus of UC Irvine in Southern California. Here's a closer look at the Rams' camp.
Top storyline: Aaron Donald will dominate training camp like he dominates opposing guards. The Rams' star defensive lineman has spent the offseason hoping for a restructured contract, and nothing has been solidified. It's complicated. The Rams want to continue to build around Donald, but it's hard to justify paying him like one of the game's elite defensive players, as he deserves, for one very simple reason: Donald is still two years away from free agency. That means he is very affordable, set to make less than $9 million in base salary these next two seasons. And it means both sides have a lot of ground to make up. The NFL's highest-paid defensive player is Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller, who signed a six-year, $114.5 million contract that guarantees him $70 million. But Miller signed that to replace a franchise tag. Among the five largest contracts for defensive players, only J.J. Watt's was agreed upon leading up to his fourth season. And that didn't happen until September. Internally, the Rams extended Robert Quinn and Tavon Austin before their fourth year. But those moves also took place around September. This could take a while.
QB depth chart: Rookie head coach Sean McVay opened the door for speculation during the offseason program when he was asked about competition at quarterback and began his answer by stating the following: "I think what we've tried to preach to our players is we're going to let the best players play. We're trying to win football games, and whoever we feel like gives us the best chance is who's going to play behind center." That prompted some to wonder whether Sean Mannion, a third-round pick in 2015, has a chance to unseat Jared Goff, the No. 1 overall pick in 2016, as the starter. Short answer: No. Goff will be given a very long leash. They need to see what he's all about under this new system. But if his struggles drag on ...
Bubble watch: Cory Harkey and Bradley Marquez, two guys whose on-field contributions last season came mostly on special teams, seem to be in danger of losing spots to younger players. Marquez caught only three passes in 2016, and the Rams have 10 other receivers on their roster. Harkey, a 27-year-old tight end and fullback, has been a core locker room leader. But that was under a different regime. The Rams like their three young tight ends -- Tyler Higbee, Gerald Everett and Temarrick Hemingway -- and just used a sixth-round pick on a versatile fullback, Sam Rogers.
That rookie could start: Cooper Kupp amassed 6,464 receiving yards at Eastern Washington, the most by any collegiate receiver at any level. And you can't chalk that up merely to inferior competition. Kupp is sure-handed with a knack for getting open. He looks primed to solidify a role as a slot receiver, starting alongside Austin and Robert Woods. And he should develop into a reliable security blanket for Goff, who could desperately use one of those.
Up for grabs: Some starting spots remain unsettled heading into training camp. Jamon Brown is the favorite at right tackle, but he'll have to earn it. Dominique Easley appears set to start alongside Michael Brockers and Donald, but others might enter the conversation. Higbee looks as though he will be the one to soak up most of the tight-end targets left behind by Lance Kendricks, but Everett -- the 44th overall pick in April -- could challenge him. It'll also be interesting to see how the pecking order stacks up at receiver.
Changing places: The initial plan called for Lamarcus Joyner to play free safety in base sets and resume his role as a slot corner in substitution packages, but he could simply remain at free safety, too. The decision might come down to Nickell Robey-Coleman, an established slot corner acquired in free agency, versus John Johnson, a talented safety selected in the third round. One of those two might end up receiving a lot of snaps. Aside from Joyner, Rob Havenstein is moving from right tackle to right guard, and Quinn is transitioning from defensive end to outside linebacker. Training camp will be crucial for them, too.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Setting the tone: The season of firsts continues for McVay, who, at 31, is the youngest head coach in the NFL's modern era. First draft, first offseason program, and now, first training camp. McVay has impressed players with his enthusiasm and knowledge, but these upcoming three weeks in Irvine are an even bigger test for him. The Rams begin the 2017 regular season with back-to-back home games, which are followed by a matchup against the rebuilding 49ers (who, granted, beat the Rams twice last season). The Rams have an opportunity to get off to a fast start. But it's up to McVay to prepare them well enough.
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The San Francisco 49ers will report for training camp July 27 with the first practice slated for the following day.
As we head toward the start of camp, we're previewing each position and the competitions that could ensue. Today we look at wide receiver, where the Niners made some drastic changes in the offseason and it's possible only one player from last year's team will be retained.
On the roster: Pierre Garcon, Marquise Goodwin, Jeremy Kerley, Aldrick Robinson, Trent Taylor, Victor Bolden Jr. Kendrick Bourne, Aaron Burbridge, DeAndre Carter, Bruce Ellington, BJ Johnson III, DeAndre Smelter.
Locked in: Garcon, Goodwin, Kerley, Taylor.
Battles to watch: When it comes to the top of the 49ers' receiver depth chart, there really isn't much drama. Garcon and Goodwin look like the favorites to start on the outside with Kerley serving as the primary slot receiver and intriguing rookie Taylor also capable of helping out inside. Robinson is probably a good bet to win a job as well, but we left him off the lock list if only because the Niners seemed to have some interesting young prospects who could elbow their way into the room as training camp and the preseason roll on.
Without knowing exactly how many receivers coach Kyle Shanahan intends to keep, it's hard to project who is in a good spot and who isn't, but it's fair to assume there will be five or six on the initial incarnation of the roster after the last round of preseason cuts. Assuming that's the case, there's one or two spots up for grabs here.
Robinson would certainly be a favorite to land one of them given his relationship with Shanahan and knowledge of the offense. While the 49ers didn't move quite as quickly to sign Robinson as they did Garcon and Goodwin, he wasn't far behind. Plus, Robinson has the ability to play outside, which makes him a logical candidate to provide depth behind Garcon and Goodwin.
Ellington is another returning body, but his battles with injuries have made him hard to count on. Plus, Ellington is best suited for the slot, and with Kerley and Taylor likely to stick, it's hard to envision the Niners keeping another receiver who is best used inside. Still, he will have a chance to push for a spot if he can stay healthy. If Ellington can offer some return ability, perhaps he could surprise.
Speaking of special teams, Burbridge is one who can't be counted out. He earned raves from the previous staff for his ability to cover kicks and punts and he's only entering his second year. His value on special teams alone could position him to win a spot.
<article class="ad-300"></article>Carter is also an interesting option after a strong spring, and though he doesn't offer much size, he has some playmaking ability. Bourne and Bolden both flashed some of that back in the spring as well, though Bourne will be playing catch-up after missing a chunk of the offseason program.
Smelter, perhaps, is the most intriguing of all. The Niners project to be one of the smallest receiving corps in the league, and while Shanahan & Co. have said that doesn't matter, having at least one big-bodied wideout would offer something different. Smelter has been hanging on with the Niners for a while despite never offering much in the way of production, and this could be his last chance. If he can make plays in the preseason, he could find a way to make the roster.
Whether the 49ers end up keeping five or six receivers, most of the competition at this position figures to come from the bottom portion of the depth chart.
