The NFL’s exhibition schedule for the upcoming year has commenced with the annual face-off at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The game, pitting the Los Angeles Chargers against the Detroit Lions, heavily favored one side, and saw former signal-caller Trey Lance of the San Francisco 49ers take center stage. Now, the anticipation builds for the initial full allotment of warm-up games, beginning this Thursday.
Many teams with Super Bowl aspirations, including the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, are anticipated to largely keep their star players on the sidelines to avoid injuries before the real competition begins. However, numerous teams will use these games to cement their rosters and cultivate a sense of unity before the season kicks off in September.
So, which NFL squads are in particular need of these practice rounds? Which teams could particularly benefit from getting vital players and position battles onto the field? Here are eight clubs that fit this description, including at least one with Super Bowl hopes, as well as what each will be looking for in the coming weeks:
Primary Concerns:
- Will Penix showcase enough potential to be seen as the future of the franchise, both internally and by fans?
- With Cousins now in a backup role to Penix, how will his presence be handled during the preseason, and could his play alter his trade value?
- With the addition of edge rushers Walker and Pearce, can Morris create a defense that’s significantly improved?
Primary Concerns:
Primary Concerns:
Primary Concerns:
- Can Richardson prove his durability and sharpen his throwing skills for Steichen, regaining his status as QB1?
- Can Jones prove that he can be a more efficient and better player than Richardson?
- With injuries impacting Ward, Jones and Brents, how will Anarumo sort out the secondary?
Primary Concerns:
- Can Lawrence, who is looking to improve, find his footing under Coen’s direction?
- To what extent can Lawrence and Hunter build chemistry, and can it carry over?
- Can Bigsby challenge Etienne, who is playing for a new contract, for the lead role?
Primary Concerns:
- As the new starting quarterback, can McCarthy keep drives going against a live defense after facing his own teammates?
- With mixed summer results from Howell and Rypien, can O’Connell have faith in the backup spot?
- Can Okudah or Rodgers solidify themselves as a starter for Flores?
Primary Concerns:
- In the quarterback rotation, will Moore lean toward Shough, Rattler, or Haener?
- How will Banks perform as the anchor of the offensive line?
- With the additions of Reid and Blackmon, can Staley improve the safety position?
Primary Concerns:
- Will Rodgers get substantial time on the field?
- Will a receiving threat emerge to complement Metcalf and Wilson?
- How will the revamped secondary perform with the addition of Ramsey and Slay, but without Fitzpatrick?
