The scent of freshly cut grass fills the air as tackle dummies are set up across NFL practice fields. Players have arrived at camps nationwide, and training is underway. The Green Bay Packers made a major move by signing offensive tackle Zach Tom to an $88 million, four-year contract extension as camps kick off. Despite just a few days into camp and full pads still on, there’s enough action to evaluate standout performers, early struggles, lingering holdouts, and injury updates.
Notable highlights include Dallas Cowboys’ top receiver CeeDee Lamb, who missed last year’s camp due to contract talks but returned strong in Oxnard, California. After leading the NFL with 135 catches in 2023, Lamb is showing he can repeat that success. Former top-ten draft pick Isaiah Simmons impressed during his first practice with the Packers, earning praise for his speed and coverage from running back Josh Jacobs. Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ hunt to replace Pro Bowler DeMarcus Lawrence at edge rusher is heating up, with rookie Marshawn Neeland already making plays against quarterback Dak Prescott.
With the Philadelphia Eagles, 2025 first-round pick Jihaad Campbell has made a remarkable early impression despite recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. His athleticism and defensive skills quickly stood out during drills. The New England Patriots’ rookie wideout Kyle Williams showed surprising speed and catching ability during camp as well.
On the flip side, some players are facing a rough start. Indianapolis Colts’ quarterbacks Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones have shown mixed performances in drills, with the starting role still undecided. Giants’ first-round pick Jackson Dart struggled with accuracy and threw an interception, though he remains optimistic about learning the NFL pace.
Holdouts continue, notably with Washington Commanders’ Pro Bowler Terry McLaurin, who remains away from camp amid contract talks despite his recent standout season. All-Pro edge rusher Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals is also awaiting contract talks while ranking among the top sack leaders of the past decade.
Injury concerns emerged as Giants Pro Bowl receiver Malik Nabers dealt with toe issues, and the Arizona Cardinals began camp with several defensive linemen on the physically unable to perform list, including key draft picks. A serious injury to Miami Dolphins’ offensive lineman Byron Matos required him to be airlifted to a trauma center, though he is stable.
Fan Take: NFL training camps are a vital testing ground where stars emerge, struggles show, and team dynamics start to take shape. These early stories matter because they give fans a first glimpse of what to expect this season, revealing potential breakout players and pressing challenges that could impact the NFL’s competitive balance.
