The NFL training camp is now underway, and the 2025 season is fast approaching. Reporters from NFL Nation document their daily insights while observing teams’ practices during these nearly two weeks.
One major focus across all camps is the fierce competition among players vying for spots on the depth chart. Throughout camp, players aim to prove their worth to secure a place on the final 53-man roster by the end of August. Still, earning a roster spot isn’t the end goal, as coaches have clearly designated who will start and who will serve as backups.
For instance, the Los Angeles Rams are working to identify a third receiving option behind Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. Meanwhile, teams like the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and New Orleans Saints are still undecided on their starting quarterbacks for the first week of the season. Across all NFL camps, there are 32 significant positional battles happening.
AFC East Highlights:
Buffalo Bills: The backup quarterback role behind Josh Allen remains uncertain, as both Mitchell Trubisky and Mike White share reps. The cornerback position also sees competition, especially with Maxwell Hairston sidelined by an LCL sprain.
Miami Dolphins: After releasing or trading their starting corners, the Dolphins have aggressively added new players like Cornell Armstrong, Jack Jones, and Mike Hilton. This position is a key area of focus going into the season.
New England Patriots: The wide receiver group is strong, led by Stefon Diggs and Cason Boat, with veterans and rookies competing for third and fourth receiving roles.
- New York Jets: Center spot is hotly contested between Josh Myers and other contenders, with Myers’ experience and past connection with QB Justin Fields playing a major role.
AFC North Highlights:
Baltimore Ravens: Two rookies are battling to replace Justin Tucker as kicker, with Tyler Loop slightly favored over John Hoyland.
Cincinnati Bengals: Lucas Patric and Codiford are competing, but Codiford currently holds the right guard position firmly.
Cleveland Browns: The quarterback battle includes veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, as well as rookies Dillon Gabriel and Chedure Sanders.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: After trading George Pickens, the team looks to solidify their No. 2 wide receiver spot, with multiple players in contention.
AFC South Highlights:
Houston Texans: Both tackle spots have competition, featuring rookie Ileonte Elsary challenging veterans.
- Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson Sr. and Daniel Jones battle for the starting quarterback role.
AFC West Highlights:
Denver Broncos: Running back positions appear secure, but players like JK Dobbins and rookie RJ Harvey compete for playing time.
Kansas City Chiefs: The left guard spot is contested primarily between rookie Josh Simmons and Jaylon Moore.
Las Vegas Raiders: The cornerback group remains unsettled, with Eric Stokes and others rotating in reps.
- Los Angeles Chargers: The center position is a three-way competition to improve last year’s poor offensive line performance.
NFC East Highlights:
Dallas Cowboys: Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders vie for the primary running back role.
New York Giants: The battle for the second cornerback spot is more intense than the right guard competition.
Philadelphia Eagles: Cornerback roles are split between veteran Adoree’ Jackson and young player Kelee Ringo.
- Washington Commanders: Rookie Josh Connery Jr. competes with veteran Andrew Wyley at right tackle.
NFC North Highlights:
Chicago Bears: Three players are fighting for left tackle duties to protect QB Caleb Williams.
Detroit Lions: Veteran Graham Glasgow’s loss to injury has opened a competition at center.
Green Bay Packers: With Christian Watson recovering from surgery, Matthew Golden is stepping up as a key wide receiver.
- Minnesota Vikings: The fourth wide receiver role gains importance due to potential suspensions and injuries.
NFC South Highlights:
Atlanta Falcons: The safety spot is contested between veterans and rookies, including Jordan Fuller and Xavier Watts.
Carolina Panthers: Center duties alternate between Austin Corbett and Cade Mays, with Mays seen as a promising long-term solution.
New Orleans Saints: A quarterback battle between Tyler Schaff, Spencer Rattler, and Jake Haener remains open.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Christian Izien is expected to make the roster, but faces challenge from rookie Jacob Parrish.
NFC West Highlights:
Arizona Cardinals: Outside linebacker positions are competitive with additions like Josh Sweat joining the mix.
Los Angeles Rams: The team is finalizing their No. 3 wide receiver spot behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
San Francisco 49ers: Safety position appears fluid due to injuries, with new acquisitions competing for roles.
- Seattle Seahawks: Right guard competition focuses on veterans Anthony Bradford and Christian Haynes.
Fan Take: As teams finalize their rosters, these intense training camp battles highlight the raw competitiveness and depth of talent in the NFL, promising an electrifying season ahead. For fans, it’s a unique opportunity to witness the emergence of future stars and understand the strategic decisions shaping their favorite teams.
