NFL 2024: Major Concerns for Teams Entering Training Camp
From the status of the rookie quarterbacks to the veterans seeking new contracts to big schematic changes, there are plenty of intriguing NFL story lines to follow this preseason.
The NFL Offseason is Over: A Glimpse into the 2024 Season
The NFL offseason has finally come to an end, and as teams don pads and engage in full-contact practices, we get our first real glimpse of what each team might look like in 2024.
This article delves into the exciting new faces, familiar players in new places, the expectations from top teams, and the ongoing contract negotiations across the league.
Which Rookie Quarterbacks Will Win a Starting Job?
The 2024 NFL draft brought in a new crop of talented quarterbacks, and the battle for starting positions is fierce.
Leading the pack is Chicago's Caleb Williams, who was given the starting job from day one. Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron has confidence in Williams' aggressive playstyle.
Despite Chicago's defense having an upper hand in practice, Williams remains undeterred. Head coach Matt Eberflus hasn't confirmed if Williams will play in the Hall of Fame Game, but any early reps against the Texans' formidable front four will be a crucial test.
In Washington, Jayden Daniels is sharing first-team reps with veteran Marcus Mariota. Although Daniels is the favorite to start, his transition from college to the NFL will be under scrutiny.
The rookie's ability to handle pressure and avoid unnecessary hits will be key factors in his development.
Meanwhile, in New England, Drake Maye will need to outperform Jacoby Brissett, a seasoned journeyman known for his smart decision-making, to secure the starting role.
Similarly, J.J. McCarthy in Minnesota faces an uphill battle against Sam Darnold, though the pressure will mount if Darnold falters or other rookies excel early on.
Other first-round quarterbacks, like Atlanta's Michael Penix, will likely not see action unless injuries occur.
The competition in Denver between Bo Nix, Jarret Stidham, and Zach Wilson is another situation to watch, although it remains uncertain who will emerge as the starter.
How is Stefon Diggs Fitting in with the Houston Texans?
The Houston Texans are entering year two of the C.J. Stroud era with high expectations. The acquisition of veteran receiver Stefon Diggs aims to bolster their offense.
With Nico Collins already a big-play threat, Diggs adds another dimension to the passing game.
However, the Texans' commitment to a balanced offense, featuring Joe Mixon and Dameon Pierce in the backfield, raises questions about target distribution.
Ensuring that Stroud can effectively utilize both Diggs and Collins will be critical for Houston's offensive success this season.
How Will the Baltimore Ravens Feature Derrick Henry in This Offense?
The Baltimore Ravens made significant strides in their passing game last season, with Lamar Jackson leading the way to his second MVP award.
The addition of Derrick Henry to the backfield alongside Jackson and Keaton Mitchell (returning from an ACL injury) promises to make the Ravens' running game even more formidable.
Henry's ability to run from shotgun and pistol formations, combined with Jackson's rushing prowess, presents a dynamic threat to defenses.
Observing how this trio develops chemistry and executes running plays during training camp will be fascinating.
What Can Kellen Moore Do to Fix the Philadelphia Eagles’ Offensive Woes?
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni faces immense pressure after a disappointing end to the 2023 season.
Enter Kellen Moore as the new offensive coordinator, tasked with revitalizing the offense led by quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Moore's previous success with Dak Prescott and Justin Herbert highlights his ability to enhance passing efficiency, particularly against blitzes.
If Hurts can quickly adapt to Moore's system and improve his blitz management, expect a breakout season for slot receiver DeVonta Smith, who could thrive in this new offensive scheme.
Can the Detroit Lions Rein in Offenses with Their Revamped Secondary?
The Detroit Lions are poised to challenge the San Francisco 49ers for NFC supremacy, thanks to their revamped secondary.
First-round pick Terrion Arnold and former Buccaneers cornerback Carlton Davis add physicality and playmaking ability to the perimeter.
With Brian Branch potentially moving to safety, the Lions' secondary boasts depth and versatility.
The development of these players during training camp will be crucial in determining whether Detroit's defense can elevate the team to new heights.
Will Jeff Hafley’s Aggressive Scheme Unlock the Green Bay Packers Defense?
Green Bay's new defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, brings an attacking and simplified defensive scheme to the Packers.
This approach suits cornerback Jaire Alexander and the versatile defenders in the middle, like Quay Walker and rookie Edgerrin Cooper.
Most importantly, it allows the pass-rushing rotation of Rashan Gary, Preston Smith, Lukas Van Ness, and Kingsley Enagbare to thrive.
The success of this aggressive scheme will be pivotal for the Packers as they aim to reclaim the NFC North and make a deep playoff run.
What Will It Take to End Each Holdout Across the League?
Contract negotiations are always a significant storyline during the offseason. Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is holding out for a new long-term deal, seeking a contract similar to Justin Jefferson's $140 million extension.
Lamb's holdout puts pressure on the Cowboys to secure his future before addressing deals for other stars like Micah Parsons and Dak Prescott.
Jets pass rusher Haason Reddick and 49ers tackle Trent Williams are also holding out for new contracts. Reddick, set to make $15 million this season, seeks a pay increase to match his production.
Williams, an All-Pro in the past three seasons, desires a reworked deal as he approaches the end of his current contract.
Balancing these demands with future salary cap implications will be a delicate task for their respective teams.
What’s the Latest on the Quarterback Market?
Several high-profile quarterbacks could secure new contracts before the regular season begins.
Dallas' Dak Prescott is in a contract year, and the Cowboys have yet to initiate negotiations, potentially leading to a lucrative open-market scenario.
Miami's Tua Tagovailoa is also seeking a new deal, with negotiations likely to push his salary north of $50 million per year. Tagovailoa's participation in training camp hinges on reaching an agreement.
In Green Bay, Jordan Love is holding in, and while optimism surrounds a new contract, the Packers must navigate their traditional approach to contract structures.
A long-term deal with rolling guarantees, similar to Patrick Mahomes' contract, could be a solution. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact each team's future and the overall quarterback market.
Conclusion
As the NFL offseason ends and training camps commence, the anticipation for the 2024 season reaches new heights.
From rookie quarterbacks vying for starting roles to star players holding out for new contracts, the storylines are abundant.
How teams adapt to new faces, schemes, and challenges will shape the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await the answers that training camps and preseason games will provide, setting the stage for an exciting NFL season.