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Training

Camp Update Volume 13, Issue 1 – 8/7/18 We say it all the time because it's true: Things change fast in the NFL. And they never change faster than they do in August. And nobody covers those changes and team situations more comprehensively than Footballguys.com. Our Training Camp Updates come out once a week in August and our staff covers everything you need to know about every NFL team. This is the deep stuff that gives you an edge. We're not going to rave that Aaron Rodgers or Ezekiel Elliot are great. You already know that.

Read our weekly updates to get the inside scoop on how the Patriots running back competition is going and which player is the best bet for your draft. Or the Cowboys WR corps. Or which Washington receiver is shining in practice. It's the kind of information that will put you over the edge and on the way to dominating your draft.

Happy reading and let's have a great 2018 season,

Joe Bryant and David Dodds Owners, Footballguys.com

Arizona Cardinals

Atlanta Falcons

Baltimore Ravens

Buffalo Bills

Carolina Panthers

Chicago Bears

Cincinnati Bengals

Cleveland Browns

Dallas Cowboys

Denver Broncos

Detroit Lions

Green Bay Packers

Houston Texans

Indianapolis Colts

Jacksonville Jaguars

Kansas City Chiefs

LA Chargers

LA Rams

Miami Dolphins

Minnesota Vikings

New England Patriots

New Orleans Saints

New York Giants

New York Jets

Oakland Raiders

Philadelphia Eagles

Pittsburgh Steelers

San Francisco 49ers

Seattle Seahawks

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tennessee Titans

Washington Redskins

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Arizona Cardinals

QB: Sam Bradford versus Josh Rosen is one of the quarterback battles everyone wants to watch thisoffseason. So far, the gap between the two is rather large with Bradford looking the part of the polished, veteran starter. Rosen can do things that Bradford can’t, but he has also made mistakes that Bradford would never do. Head coach Steve Wilks made it very clear Bradford is the favorite to start Week 1. “I don’t waver that Sam is our starter. It’s his job to lose,” said Wilks. Rosen has had nothing but praise for Bradford. “I think people forget how good he is,” Rosen said. “He’s unbelievably quick and decisive with everything he does. The ball just doesn’t touch the ground. He’s very quick and light on his feet in the pocket. The ball goes where it needs to go. It’s his first year in this offense, too, and it seems like it’s been his fourth.” Rosen’s arm strength has been impressive, but his decision-making needs work.

RB: The hype for David Johnson to reach 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving is a legitimate goal. Johnson has been split out regularly in early practices which gives merit to the ‘1000/1000’ pursuit. When Johnson does get split out wide in real games, the question will be who comes on the field at running back? Fourth-round rookie Chase Edmonds looks like the real deal and is already penciled in as the backup running back. “The game is starting to slow down a little bit for me,” Edmonds said. “Still making rookie mistakes, just like a lot of us. I think the most important thing for me right now is to eliminate those mistakes and not be a mistake repeater.” One of the eye-opening moments of camp saw Johnson line up at fullback, with Edmonds at tailback behind him. Johnson ended up blocking for the smaller Edmonds on the play. Edmonds has been impressive as a blocker and is showing the skills to be a three-down back just like Johnson. He can block, catch and run. Having both on the field at the same time could create mismatches.

WR: What we know for sure is Larry Fitzgerald is ready to lead receiving corps. The rest of the pecking order is to be determined. Second-round rookie Christian Kirk, free agent Brice Butler, sophomore Chad Williams, and deep threat J.J. Nelson all want the starting job, but none have earned it through two weeks of camp. Butler said it best, “It brings the best out of everybody. I’m pretty sure there are ten other guys in the room vying for that number 2 or number 3 spot. It’ll make for a great camp.”

TE: A few weeks ago Ricky Seals-Jones was charged with assault related to a bathroom incident at a W Hotel. It’s not yet clear how the arrest will impact Seals-Jones this season, if at all, but for now, he’s on the field trying to build off last year’s surprisingly productive role. He has been lining up as the starting tight end

throughout camp. Jermaine Gresham is on the PUP list but will push for a role upon his return.

Defense: The Cardinals switched to a 4-3 this offseason under Wilks, from the 3-4 front during the Bruce Arians regime. The players are excited by the switch and think they’ll vault into the league’s best units, as a result. “It fits our skill set,” said star cornerback Patrick Peterson. “I believe guys are now in a position to flourish even more than they did in the previous system.” Wilks is happy that Peterson is frustrated about not being targeted enough in practice. “To be honest, I hope it continues to happen. And with him, he’s frustrated, but that’s the price of being great.”

Returners: Asked about rookie receiver Christian Kirk, head coach Steve Wilks showed excitement about the potential to use him on returns, "I think he’s going to bring some great value on special teams, particularly the return game."

Cardinals Depth Chart QB: Sam Bradford, Josh Rosen, Mike Glennon RB: David Johnson, Chase Edmonds, T.J. Logan, D.J. Foster (KR), Sherman Badie FB: Derrick Coleman, Elijhaa Penny WR: Larry Fitzgerald, Brice Butler, Christian Kirk (KR/PR), J.J. Nelson, Chad Williams, Carlton Agudosi, Trent Sherfield, Jalen Tolliver, C.J. Duncan, Corey Willis, Greg Little TE: Ricky Seals-Jones, Jermaine Gresham (inj), Gabe Holmes, Bryce Williams LT: DJ Humphries, John Wetzel, Will Holden LG: Mike Iupati, Mason Cole C: A.Q. Shipley, Daniel Munyer, Max Tuerk RG: Justin Pugh, Evan Boehm RT: Andre Smith, Korey Cunningham K: Phil Dawson DT: Corey Peters (NT), Rodney Gunter, Robert Nkemdiche, Olsen Pierre, Pasoni Tasini DE: Chandler Jones, Markus Golden, Bryson Albright, Vontarrius Dora, Moubarak Djeri, Peli Anau MLB: Haason Reddick, Josh Bynes (S), Scooby Wright, Gabe Martin OLB: Deone Bucannon (W), Edmond Robinson, Jeremy Cash, Praise Martin-Oguike CB: Patrick Peterson (PR), Jamar Taylor, Brandon Williams, Bene Benwikere, Chris Campbell, Louis Young, Jonathan Moxey, Jarell Carter S: Budda Baker, Antoine Bethea, Rudy Ford Coaches: Head Coach: Steven Wilks, Off Coord: Mike McCoy, QB Coach: Byron Leftwich, RB Coach: Kirby Wilson, WR Coach: Kevin Garver, TE Coach: Jason Michael, OL Coach: Ray Brown, SpecTm Coach: Jeff Rodgers, Def Coord: Al Holcomb, DL Coach: Don Johnson, LB Coach: Larry Foote, DB Coach: David Merritt

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Atlanta Falcons

QB: Matt Ryan and Matt Schaub have had trouble moving the offense in scrimmages throughout camp. The defense has intercepted and sacked both players repeatedly and earned a safety on Schaub. Eric Saubert, Julio Jones, and Mohamed Sanu have been the primary beneficiaries of redzone targets during this week’s scrimmages. The most important news is that Ryan believes offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian, “is a lot more comfortable with the personnel, knowing what guys to use in certain situations.”

RB: Devonta Freeman looks as strong as ever, and he’s even earning vertical targets as a receiver. The entire depth chart has done a good job catching the football during camp. Beat writers have also highlighted strong moments from Tevin Coleman, rookie Ito Smith, Justin Crawford, and free agent Malik Williams in both 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. Smith has missed time with a foot injury but will be in the mix for a return specialist role. He also showcased elite agility by getting separation on linebacker Deion Jones during a run. Williams has been up-and-down. For example, a week into practice, he fumbled but immediately broke several long runs after that.

WR: Julio Jones reported to training camp on time, and he says he’s never been healthier. Mohammed Sanu is designated to see most of his time in the slot while rookie Calvin Ridley plays opposite Jones on the outside. Ridley has dropped multiple passes in camp and beat writers are citing Ridley’s past issue at Alabama as a “major weakness of his game.” Ridley is also returning punts. Marvin Hall is having another good training camp, and Matt Ryan praised Hall as a “good reserve” who has “great top… speed.” There’s a possibility that Hall could earn the fourth spot on the depth chart, which could lead to consistent playing time. It’s speculation at this point, but this is Hall’s second consecutive praiseworthy camp. In spite of Hall’s strong showing, some believe that Justin Hardy has an edge because he has better hands.

TE: Matt Ryan told the media that Austin Hooper “has shown a lot of progress” as a route runner. The third-year starter is developing better timing with Ryan, and it could mean a breakout season. Veteran Logan Paulsen is slated to replace Levine Toilolo as the blocking tight end and in jumbo sub packages. Second-year tight end Eric Saubert has had a productive summer; he’s regularly making catches all over the field, including as a vertical threat. When he had a pair of drops during one practice last week, observers noted them as uncharacteristic, which is an indicator of his consistency. Saubert looks more like a big slot receiver, which could make him a low-volume, big-play option in the two- and three-tight end sets that Atlanta has been using a lot this summer.

Defense: The defense has generated a lot of big plays in camp, sacking and intercepting the first- and second-team quarterbacks during scrimmages and holding the first-team offense scoreless during a session. Rookie cornerback Isaiah Oliver has been a standout performer, covering Julio Jones “for extended periods of time, reportedly holding his own against the All-Pro.” Lineman Jack Crawford is also earning praise from head coach Dan Quinn for his power, and the team anticipates Crawford will be a crucial component in the rotation.

Returners: The Falcons opened training camp with a four-man competition for the starting punt returner role between Justin Hardy, Marvin Hall, Reggie Davis, and Calvin Ridley. The same four players have been handling kickoffs, along with a surprise participant in rookie running back Ito Smith. On Smith returning kickoffs, head coach Dan Quinn said, "I do think he has the traits to do it. He’s got real quickness to go. We’re going to have to get him into some game reps and take a look at it."

Falcons Depth Chart QB: Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Garrett Grayson, Kurt Benkert RB: Devonta Freeman, Tevin Coleman, Ito Smith, Demario Richard, Terrence Magee, Malik Williams FB: Luke McNitt, Daniel Marx WR: Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, Calvin Ridley, Justin Hardy, Russell Gage, Marvin Hall, Nick Williams (RFA), Deante Burton, Reggie Davis, Dontez Byrd, Damoun Patterson TE: Austin Hooper, Logan Paulsen, Eric Saubert, Alex Gray, Jake Roh, Jaeden Graham LT: Jake Matthews, Austin Pasztor LG: Andy Levitre, Sean Harlow C: Alex Mack, Ben Garland RG: Brandon Fusco, Wes Schweitzer RT: Ryan Schraeder, Ty Sambrailo K: Matt Bryant DT: Grady Jarrett (NT), Jack Crawford, Deadrin Senat DE: Vic Beasley, Brooks Reed, Takkarist McKinley, Derrick Shelby, J′terius Jones, Anthony Wimbush MLB: Deion Jones OLB: De′Vondre Campbell (W), Duke Riley (inj) (S), Fole Oluokun, Kemal Ishmael CB: Desmond Trufant, Robert Alford, Brian Poole, Isaiah Oliver, Justin Bethel, Blidi Wreh-Wilson S: Keanu Neal (SS), Ricardo Allen (FS), Damontae Kazee, Sharrod Neasman, Foyesade Oluokun, Ron Parker, Quincy Mauger, Marcelis Branch, Tyson Graham Coaches: Head Coach: Dan Quinn, Off Coord: Steve Sarkisian, QB Coach: Greg Knapp, RB Coach: Bernie Parmalee, WR Coach: Raheem Morris, TE Coach: Wade Harman, OL Coach: Chris Morgan, SpecTm Coach: Keith Armstrong, Def Coord: Marquand Manuel, DL Coach: Brian Young, LB Coach: Jeff Ulbrich, DB Coach: Doug Mallory

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Baltimore Ravens

QB: Lamar Jackson is the most exciting quarterback story in camp, but his arrival has lit a fire under incumbent starter Joe Flacco. NBC’s Peter King heard from a longtime Ravens observer that Flacco is having “far and away” the best camp of his career. With Jackson being a first-round pick and Flacco rarely missing games, it seemed as though the team might only keep two quarterbacks. But Robert Griffin III has exceeded expectations in camp so far. Griffin also started the Hall of Fame Game and outplayed Jackson. Jackson was unimpressive in the game, but John Harbaugh saw enough to be encouraged.

RB: Last season at this time, Alex Collins was at the bottom of Baltimore’s depth chart. Attrition and ineffectiveness ahead of him led to Collins taking over the starting job after the first month and gaining nearly 1,000 yards on the ground. This season, the position is all his, with little evidence that he could lose it. The attention hasn’t changed Collins’ preparation, though. "He's in the same mindset," Coach John Harbaugh said. "I don't think he's changed one bit." Helping Collins – and the entire offense – is the return from the PUP list of all-world guard Marshal Yanda. Behind Collins, Kenneth Dixon has already missed practices with injury (though he did return on August 4). Javorius Allen should be the favorite to be the team’s passing downs back. He had taken the second-most reps on the team leading up to the Hall of Fame Game. Collins, Allen, and Dixon are the only roster locks, but undrafted free agent Gus Edwards has been impressive and is pushing for the fourth slot.

WR: Michael Crabtree is the overwhelming favorite to lead this team in targets. It’s no surprise Crabtree has been a primary focus in the red zone during team drills since John Brown and Willie Snead aren’t built for tight quarters, and the tight ends are unproven. Speedster John Brown is also a new addition coming over from Arizona. If you peruse the Ravens official Twitter account between July 26 and July 31, you’ll see evidence of multiple Flacco-to-Brown highlights. The two are making a quick connection – especially on deep balls. Snead is head-and-shoulders above any other candidate for the third receiver job and could be used both inside and outside interchangeably with Brown. Snead can also contribute in two-receiver sets if there were an injury in front of him. This trio is all new to Baltimore, but they provide the team with a versatile set of playmakers. Behind them is Chris Moore, a third-year player showing steady development. He has made flashy plays in OTAs and early in camp. With multiple injury-prone players in front of him, Moore may be called upon for significant action. He appears ready to step up if needed. Former first-round pick Breshad Perriman is still on the roster – for now. Perriman’s struggles with injury are well-documented. He is no longer a shoo-in for a roster spot. He had a ball go through his hands for

an interception in the Hall of Fame Game. With rookies Jaleel Scott and Jordan Lasley near-locks and flashy second-year man Tim White being the favorite for kick return duties, there might not be enough spots to go around for Perriman. The team did pick up Perriman’s $650K roster bonus, but that doesn’t guarantee they’ll keep him.

TE: First-round pick Hayden Hurst has had mixed reviews so far. He’s had struggles (a dropped pass and a false start in the same practice) but also bright spots (the touchdown catch in the Hall of Fame Game). He should be considered the favorite to start. His competition is fellow rookie Mark Andrews, who missed seven straight practices with a nebulous soft-tissue injury, before returning over the weekend. It might be easier for Andrews to catch up than it would be for Hurst, though. Andrews probably won’t be asked to do much blocking; he would be best utilized as a big slot receiver to create mismatches. Nick Boyle should also make the team due to his blocking ability. Maxx Williams might not make the cut.

K: Justin Tucker is in no danger of losing his job, but the Ravens used another kicker in the Hall of Fame game, undrafted free agent Kaare Vedvik, out of Marshall. Vedvik made both of his extra point attempts and a 31-yard field goal. He also handled all of the punting duties. He could make the team and possibly spell Tucker on kickoffs.

Defense: The outside linebackers are a strength with veteran Terrell Suggs and third-year player Matt Judon. Last year, Judon was second on the team with eight sacks. Moreover, the second-year duo of Tyus Bowser and Tim Williams provides plenty of depth. The defensive line is also deep; the team has rotated as many as seven players with the first team. Although Patrick Ricard had a productive Hall of Fame Game, he’s not likely to see many snaps on the defensive line. Ricard is also the team’s primary fullback, cementing his roster spot. In the secondary, Eric Weddle is a stalwart and quarterback of the defense. 2017 first-round pick Marlon Humphrey has been impressive in practice, making plays during drills and live action.

Returners: Receivers Tim White and Janarion Grant are fighting to earn a roster spot, but both could bolster their claim by locking down the return specialist job. White has the inside track for now, but both players split opportunities in the Ravens' first preseason game.

Ravens Depth Chart QB: Joe Flacco, Lamar Jackson, Robert Griffin III, Josh Woodrum RB: Alex Collins, Javorius Allen (3RB), Kenneth Dixon (3RB), De′Lance Turner, John Crockett, Gus Edwards FB: Ricky Ortiz WR: Michael Crabtree, John Brown, Willie Snead, Chris Moore, Jordan Lasley, Breshad Perriman, Jaleel Scott, Tim

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White (KR/PR), DeVier Posey, Jaelon Acklin, Andre Levrone, Janarion Grant (KR/PR), Quincy Adeboyejo (inj) TE: Hayden Hurst, Mark Andrews, Nick Boyle, Maxx Williams, Vince Mayle, Darren Waller (susp) LT: Ronnie Stanley, Dieugot Joseph LG: James Hurst, Nico Siragusa C: Matt Skura RG: Marshal Yanda, Jermaine Eluemunor RT: Alex Lewis, Orlando Brown K: Justin Tucker NT: Brandon Williams, Michael Pierce (NT) DE: Willie Henry, Brent Urban, Carl Davis (DT), Chris Wormley, Bronson Kaufusi, Zach Sieler, Patrick Ricard (FB) ILB: C.J. Mosley (M), Patrick Onwuasor (W), Kamalei Correa (W), Albert McClellan, Kenny Young, Bam Bradley OLB: Terrell Suggs, Matt Judon, Tyus Bowser, Tim Williams, Za′Darius Smith, Myles Humphrey CB: Jimmy Smith (inj), Brandon Carr, Marlon Humphrey, Stanley Jean-Baptiste, Anthony Averett, Tavon Young, Jaylen Hill (inj), Maurice Canady, Bennett Jackson, Robertson Daniel S: Eric Weddle (FS), Tony Jefferson (SS), Anthony Levine (FS/CB), DeShon Elliott, Chuck Clark Coaches: Head Coach: John Harbaugh, Off Coord: Marty Mornhinweg, RB Coach: Thomas Hammock, WR Coach: Bobby Engram, TE Coach: Greg Roman, OL Coach: Joe DAlessandris, SpecTm Coach: Jerry Rosburg, Def Coord: Don Martindale, DL Coach: Joe Cullen, LB Coach: Mike Macdonald, DB Coach: Chris Hewitt

Buffalo Bills

QB: The open competition for the starting role has understandably dominated beat writers’ attention in camp. The coaches are taking things slow with first-rounder Josh Allen while allowing AJ McCarron and Nathan Peterman to split time with the first-team offense. Don't overreact to Allen spending extensive time with the backups as he has flashed at times, including a long run in a recent practice at New Era Field. McCarron is the early favorite to start the season opener but isn't running away with it, and Peterman has made enough plays to keep things close heading into the preseason opener.

RB: LeSean McCoy has been accused of orchestrating a home burglary that left his ex-girlfriend badly injured, but charges have yet to be filed as the investigation is still pending. He's attending training camp, and the Bills have said they expect him to be available for the entire season, although the legal issues leave his status in doubt. A pivotal situation to watch is the performance of the offensive line after they lost three of their best players in the offseason. Meanwhile, Chris Ivory was signed to back up McCoy, but undrafted rookie Keith Ford has impressed early on and may have a chance to make the team as a depth player.

WR: The receivers are widely considered to be among the weakest in the league, but there is potential. Kelvin

Benjamin stands out as a former first-round pick who came into camp with something to prove as he heads into a contract year, but his career has been trending in the wrong direction. Last year's second-round pick Zay Jones is trying to put a very tough year behind him and was added to the active roster on Sunday. Jeremy Kerley figures to contribute as the team's slot receiver and is only a year removed from a 64-catch season with the 49ers. After those three, there should be plenty of competition for the remaining roster spots. Former first-round pick Corey Coleman was added to the mix late on Sunday as the Bills acquired him from the Browns in exchange for a 2020 draft pick.

TE: Charles Clay is back as the starting tight end and figures to get plenty of rest during the preseason as the team tries to keep him healthy. Nick O'Leary and Logan Thomas provide quality depth at the position, but both were dealing with minor injuries early on. One of the early standouts in camp has been Jason Croom, a converted college receiver who spent last year on the team's practice squad.

Defense: Despite bringing back many of the same players from a year ago, expectations are higher for the defense thanks to several offseason upgrades. First-round rookie Tremaine Edmunds has stood out and should provide an upgrade over Preston Brown at middle linebacker once he gets acclimated. Vontae Davis and Trent Murphy also look like clear upgrades at cornerback and edge rusher, respectively, provided they can stay healthy. Star Lotulelei is also an important presence at nose tackle, and Rafael Bush upgrades the #3 safety spot.

Returners: When asked if anyone had emerged as a leading candidate to handle returns, special teams coordinator Danny Crossman replied, "No... as I said before, until we start doing it for real it’s good competition, we’re getting a good feel on guys, I’m getting to know guys, but until you’re out there in [a] real game... that’s when I think that stuff, like every other position, will start to separate itself and settle itself down."

Bills Depth Chart QB: AJ McCarron, Nathan Peterman, Josh Allen RB: LeSean McCoy, Chris Ivory, Travaris Cadet, Taiwan Jones, Marcus Murphy, Aaron Green FB: Patrick DiMarco WR: Kelvin Benjamin, Corey Coleman, Zay Jones (inj), Jeremy Kerley, Andre Holmes, Rod Streator, Ray-Ray McCloud, Austin Proehl, Malachi Dupre, Robert Foster, Kaelin Clay (KR), Brandon Reilly, Cam Phillips, Quan Bray TE: Charles Clay, Nick O′Leary, Logan Thomas (inj), Khari Lee, Jason Croom, Keith Towbridge LT: Dion Dawkins, Marshall Newhouse LG: Ryan Groy, Adam Redmond C: Russell Bodine RG: Vlad Ducasse, John Miller, Wyatt Teller RT: Jordan Mills, Conor McDermott

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K: Stephen Hauschka DT: Star Lotulelei, Kyle Williams, Adolphus Washington, Harrison Phillips, Ricky Hatley, Deandre Coleman DE: Jerry Hughes, Trent Murphy, Shaq Lawson, Eddie Yarbrough, Terrence Fede, Marquavius Lewis, Mat Boesen, Owa Odighizuwa MLB: Tremaine Edmunds, Ramon Humber, Tanner Vallejo OLB: Lorenzo Alexander (S), Julian Stanford, Matt Milano, Keenan Robinson, Xavier Woodson-Luster, Deon Lacey CB: Tre′Davious White, Vontae Davis, Philip Gaines, Greg Mabin, Taron Johnson, Siran Neal, Lafayette Pitts, Levi Wallace, Ryan Carter, Breon Borders S: Micah Hyde (SS)(PR), Jordan Poyer (FS), Rafael Bush, L.J. McCray, Kelcie McCray, Dean Marlowe Coaches: Head Coach: Sean McDermott, Off Coord: Brian Daboll, QB Coach: David Culley, RB Coach: Kelly Skipper, WR Coach: Terry Robiskie, TE Coach: Rob Boras, OL Coach: Juan Castillo, SpecTm Coach: Danny Crossman, Def Coord: Leslie Frazier, DL Coach: Bill Teerlinck, LB Coach: Bobby Babich, DB Coach: John Butler

Carolina Panthers

QB: Cam Newton came into training camp full of energy and antics. Newton arrived healthy and “ready to rock,” according to wide receiver Devin Funchess. Newton appears to be adapting well to offensive coordinator Norv Turner. Turner stated he wants to raise Newton’s career completion percentage from 58.5 percent to between 65 and 70 percent this year. When asked if he thinks that is realistic, Newton replied, “Absolutely.” As tight end Greg Olsen pointed out, the fact that the Panthers quarterback has been healthy and fully engaged in all the offseason and preseason work, building chemistry with his teammates, and infecting everyone with his enthusiasm “makes a big difference.” The competition between Garrett Gilbert and Taylor Heinicke for backup duties is tight. The two have been alternating days as the second-string play-caller. Head coach Ron Rivera praised Heinicke’s “lively arm,” but said he is a bit too much of a “gunslinger.” On the other hand, Rivera described Gilbert as “a little more cerebral,” but maintained that the preseason games would be crucial in deciding the No. 2 role.

RB: Christian McCaffrey entered training camp as the primary running back, a position made clear when Rivera said he wants to make McCaffrey “a very integral part” of the offense. “[H]e can be one of those guys that hopefully gets the ball 25 to 30 times a game,” Rivera stated. McCaffrey said he feels more comfortable and more developed, but he wants to focus on consistency and to be a complete back. The head coach’s comments indicate that C.J. Anderson will be a complementary contributor rather than share the workload evenly with McCaffrey. For his part, Anderson told the media he was a good fit in Carolina.

He added that he was going to practice and to play with a big chip on his shoulder. When asked about the running back situation, Norv Turner explained that he would be taking into account matchups and making in-game adjustments. Cameron Artis-Payne is off to a quiet start, although one beat writer speculated his roster spot hinges on special teams contributions.

WR: Devin Funchess is heading into a contract year, but his focus is on “strictly football.” His first week of camp was not particularly remarkable, but his overall performance was solid. For years the team has searched for the right receiver to start opposite of Funchess, and that could be veteran Torrey Smith. Smith, whom the Panthers brought in to be a deep threat, has shown good rapport with Cam Newton. Newton praised Smith’s veteran leadership in the locker room, stating he felt Funchess was learning a lot from the older receiver. Many believe that experience on top of his skill could win Smith the number two spot. However, the competition is fierce between him, Curtis Samuel, and rookie D.J. Moore. Samuel sat out the first five days of practice with a sore ankle but impressed with big plays upon his return. Ron Rivera praised Samuel’s speed but wants to see more consistency. Moore is not to be discounted. The highlights from each practice always include at least one big play from the talented rookie. On Day 6, Moore soared over Donte Jackson in individuals to snag a catch that drew gasps of admiration from the crowd. It is worth noting that the repetitions Moore got were mostly against a fellow rookie and rarely against seasoned defenders. Damiere Byrd is also turning heads; he’s made some deft catches and run better routes than in the past. Jarius Wright hasn’t stood out but is technically in the running for the No. 3 role.

TE: Greg Olsen is healthy and playing at his usual Pro Bowl level. He remains a model of consistency. Chris Manhertz was placed on the PUP list with a broken left foot, so rookie Ian Thomas, Jason Vander Laan, and Evan Baylis are getting plenty of reps. Both Thomas and Vander Laan had a great first day, earning a mention from Rivera. In contrast to his strong first practice, Thomas has been inconsistent since. He has plus speed and an ability to get open but has to stop dropping passes. Vander Laan received much work with the first team until a shoulder injury took him out of practice for most of the last week.

Defense: Last year, James Bradberry ran away with the defensive camp MVP award and is almost sure to do the same this year. Each day, Bradberry makes big plays on the ball, earning praise from Rivera for consistency and hard work. The coaching staff and teammates alike are also pleased with free agent Dontari Poe’s performance. Luke Kuechly marveled at Poe’s agility, and Rivera commented, “Dontari Poe has been everything we’ve hoped for.” Kuechly is fully recovered from labrum repair

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surgery and is using training camp to focus on improving his pass rush. Unfortunately, Julius Peppers was sidelined the entire week with a shoulder injury, but he was taken off of the PUP list on the ninth day of practice. Ross Cockrell suffered a broken leg and is out for the season. His absence could solidify Kevon Seymour as the starting cornerback opposite Bradberry, but rookie Donte Jackson is making enough of a splash that he could end up stealing the spot. Fellow rookie Rashaan Gaulden has flashed as he competes for snaps at safety.

Returners: With head coach Ron Rivera calling 25-30 touches per game "ideal" and offensive coordinator Norv Turner calling 20-25 touches "realistic" for Christian McCaffrey, it remains a real question whether the team will want to continue to risk him on special teams. One option to replace him would be rookie receiver D.J. Moore, who was spotted fielding punts on the second day of camp.

Panthers Depth Chart QB: Cam Newton, Garrett Gilbert, Taylor Heinicke, Kyle Allen RB: Christian McCaffrey (3RB), C.J. Anderson (SD), Cameron Artis-Payne, Elijah Hood, Fozzy Whittaker (IR) FB: Alex Armah WR: Devin Funchess, D.J. Moore, Torrey Smith, Jarius Wright, Curtis Samuel, Damiere Byrd, Kaelin Clay (KR/PR), Fred Ross, Austin Duke, Rasheed Bailey, Mose Frazier, Jamaal Jones, Bug Howard TE: Greg Olsen, Ian Thomas, Chris Manhertz (inj), Scott Simonson (RFA), Evan Baylis LT: Matt Kalil LG: Amini Silatolu, Jeremiah Sirles C: Ryan Kalil, Greg Van Roten, Tyler Larsen RG: Trai Turner RT: Taylor Moton, Daryl Williams (INJ) K: Graham Gano DT: Kawann Short, Dontari Poe, Vernon Butler, Kendrick Norton, Kyle Love DE: Mario Addison, Wes Horton, Julius Peppers, Daeshon Hall, Marquis Haynes, Bryan Cox Jr., Zach Moore, Karter Schult MLB: Luke Kuechly (inj), David Mayo (W/S), Jermaine Carter, Andre Smith OLB: Shaq Thompson (W), Thomas Davis (S) (susp), Jared Norris, Brian Blechen, Richie Brown, Skai Moore CB: James Bradberry, Kevon Seymour, Donte Jackson, Captain Munnerlyn, Corn Elder, Ladarius Gunter, Lorenzo Doss, Cole Luke, Ross Cockrell (IR) S: Mike Adams (SS), Da′Norris Searcy (FS), Colin Jones, Rashaan Gaulden (FS/CB), Demetrious Cox, Dezmen Southward, Damian Parms Coaches: Head Coach: Ron Rivera, Off Coord: Norv Turner, QB Coach: Scott Turner, RB Coach: Jim Skipper, WR Coach: Lance Taylor, TE Coach: Pete Hoener, SpecTm Coach: Chase Blackburn, Def Coord: Eric Washington, DL Coach: Brady Hoke, LB Coach: Steve Russ, DB Coach: Curtis Fuller

Chicago Bears

QB: The Bears opened up the preseason against the Ravens on Thursday night in the Hall of Fame game, but Mitch Trubisky and his fellow starters got the night off. Chase Daniel started and threw for just 53 yards in the first half with two interceptions and a short touchdown. The team will rise and fall on the play of Trubisky this year so everybody will want to see how quickly he can pick up the new offense under Matt Nagy. Camp observers note Trubisky has been prone to turnovers and mistakes at times but looks dynamic at other times. It’s critical the second-year starter develops consistency, but there will be growing pains; it’s natural.

RB: Despite sitting out the opener, Jordan Howard and Tarik Cohen are expected to handle the bulk of the workload again this year. Howard will remain the workhorse on early downs, but Cohen is going to get a big boost from an offense that is designed to get him the ball in space as the Chiefs did with Tyreek Hill. Benny Cunningham is an experienced veteran who provides quality depth, which he demonstrated after breaking off a 30-yard run against the Ravens.

WR: Allen Robinson was signed to be the No. 1 receiver, but he's coming off a torn ACL and is off to a slow start. Robinson’s early camp struggles have allowed rookie Anthony Miller to emerge as the star of training camp. Miller is an exceptional route runner and has soft hands. Taylor Gabriel and Kevin White, who slot as the Nos. 3 and 4 receivers, also sat out versus the Ravens. If Josh Bellamy makes the 53-man roster due to his special-teams contributions, there may only be one or two spots up for grabs. Javon Wims is making a strong claim for one of them. He caught seven passes on ten targets for 89 yards against the Ravens. The rookie may not have enough speed or quickness to create separation consistently, but at 6-foot-4 he's a big body who can make catches over the middle.

TE: Another key addition to the offense this year is tight end Trey Burton, who played well as a reserve with the Eagles and will try to replicate what Travis Kelce did in the role, playing for Nagy in Kansas City. Adam Shaheen is a talented young player as well, but he'll likely need to improve as a blocker to get on the field in two tight-end sets. Dion Sims returns as the experienced veteran and blocking tight end, although he had a very rough game against the Ravens.

K: The Bears signed Cody Parkey to a four-year, $15 million deal in an attempt to solve their kicker woes since letting Robbie Gould go. Parkey made an extra point and chipshot field goal attempt in the Hall of Fame game. He’s a fantasy sleeper with the improvements to the Bears offense.

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Defense: The biggest storyline for the defense is the holdout of first-round linebacker Roquan Smith. Neither side appears willing to budge regarding language in the contract that voids guaranteed money in the event of a suspension. The Bears do have solid depth at inside linebacker with Danny Trevathan and Nick Kwiatkoski, but Smith was a top-10 draft pick who can elevate the entire defense. The pass rush is the biggest concern, and the team is counting heavily on Leonard Floyd finally reaching his potential. He has not missed any time in camp but hasn't exactly stood out either as he continues to recover from right knee surgery. Young players like Isaiah Irving and Kylie Fitts had strong games and contributed to an impressive 8-sack performance against the Ravens. The secondary remains intact from last year but a player to watch is free safety Eddie Jackson, who is showing more versatility and making plays up near the line of scrimmage.

Returners: The electric Tarik Cohen was sensational as a returner in 2017. With little competition around him, he remains a likely bet to be one of the league's rare two-way return specialists.

Bears Depth Chart QB: Mitchell Trubisky, Chase Daniel, Tyler Bray RB: Jordan Howard (SD), Tarik Cohen (3RB/PR), Benny Cunningham, Taquan Mizzell, Ryan Nall FB: Michael Burton WR: Allen Robinson, Anthony Miller, Taylor Gabriel, Kevin White, Joshua Bellamy, Bennie Fowler, Javon Wims, Tanner Gentry, Mario Alford, DeMarcus Ayers, Marlon Brown TE: Trey Burton, Adam Shaheen, Dion Sims, Daniel Brown, Ben Braunecker, Colin Thompson LT: Charles Leno LG: Bradley Sowell, James Daniels C: Cody Whitehair, Hroniss Grasu RG: Kyle Long, Eric Kush RT: Bobby Massie K: Cody Parkey NT: Eddie Goldman (inj), John Jenkins DE: Akiem Hicks, Jonathan Bullard, Roy Robertson-Harris, Rashaad Coward, Bilal Nichols, Nick Williams, Olubunmi Rotimi ILB: Danny Trevathan, Nick Kwiatkoski, Roquan Smith, Joel Iyiegbuniwe, Jonathan Anderson, John Timu OLB: Leonard Floyd (inj), Aaron Lynch, Sam Acho, Kylie Fitts, Isaiah Irving CB: Kyle Fuller, Prince Amukamara, Bryce Callahan, Marcus Cooper, Sherrick McManus, CreíVon LeBlanc, Rashard Fant, Doran Grant, Kevin Tolliver, Jonathan Mincy S: Eddie Jackson (FS/PR), Adrian Amos (SS), Deon Bush, DeAndre Houston-Carson, Deiondre′ Hall Coaches: Head Coach: Matt Nagy, Off Coord: Mark Helfrich, QB Coach: Dave Ragone, WR Coach: Mike Furrey, TE Coach: Keith Gilbertson, OL Coach: Harry Hiestand, SpecTm Coach: Chris Tabor, Def Coord: Vic Fangio, DL Coach: Jay Rodgers, LB Coach: Glenn Pires, DB Coach: Ed Donatell

Cincinnati Bengals

QB: Andy Dalton has had an encouraging start to training camp. He was efficient in the team’s mock game, completing 10-of-13 passes for 140 yards. “We had some longer drives, which you want in those situations,” said Dalton. “We got some chunk plays from Kermit (Whitfield) and A.J. (Green). From the standpoint of moving the ball, I think we did what we wanted to do today.” Dalton is one of the many players raving about the new offense designed by offensive coordinator Bill Lazor. “I really like the way we’re doing things, the way that Bill is calling stuff and the way the offense is set up,” said Dalton. “I feel comfortable. Things feel new, which is good.” Jeff Driskel and Matt Barkley have both been struggling in the battle for the backup job. Rookie Logan Woodside has barely seen the field and may be in the doghouse after a recent DUI arrest.

RB: Joe Mixon has been getting the majority of first-team reps and has the look of a bellcow. He slimmed down to 218 pounds and is more explosive than he was as a rookie. Mixon has earned praise from the coaches for his understanding of the offense. “He’s a very disciplined runner right now and a very disciplined student. He’s grown up,” says running backs coach Kyle Caskey. “As a rookie you really don’t know what you’re getting yourself into sometimes. He’s been through it. He’s got a different mindset than he had. He’s really taken ownership of where he’s at on the team at this point.” The running game looks to have taken a huge leap forward so far in camp, largely due to improvements on the offensive line and a more aggressive blocking scheme installed by new offensive line coach Frank Pollack. In contrast to last year, the offensive line is winning against the defensive line in short-yardage drills. Giovani Bernard is a fan of the changes, as well. “I think everyone across the board has picked up the pace,” said Bernard. “The offensive line is moving a lot quicker. Running backs are moving a lot quicker. The receivers are moving, and with Andy (Dalton) getting the ball out quick, things have been clicking.” Bernard also feels quicker himself, now almost two years removed from the torn ACL that ended his 2016 season.

WR: The decision to cut veteran stalwart Brandon LaFell was only a mild surprise, but one that has significant repercussions for this position group. LaFell led all Bengals skill position players in snaps both last season (860) and in 2016 (1,011). His departure creates a massive void in terms of available playing time and targets (206 over last two season). According to receivers coach Bob Bicknell, the move was made possible by the emergence of the younger receivers. “Now the hard stuff happens,” said Bicknell. “Now we have to be more consistent. They’ve flashed, but it’s not about flashing now. It’s really about consistency.” Nobody has flashed more than John Ross, who has

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stepped in as the starter on the outside across from A.J. Green. Ross has been an early standout, repeatedly hauling in deep passes from Dalton. He has added almost 10 pounds of muscle and is finally healthy, which has allowed him to show off the 4.22 speed that made him a top-10 draft pick. While Ross has been getting behind the defense with ease and making highlight grabs, he has also been inconsistent and had some issues with drops. Josh Malone and Auden Tate have had their moments, though both have missed time recently with injuries. A.J. Green made some big plays in the team’s mock game and looks to be in midseason form. Tyler Boyd is the starter in the slot. He ended last season on a positive note and has carried that momentum into the preseason.

TE: The team is treating Tyler Eifert with kid gloves because of his chronic back problems. They took their time easing him into action and have tried to limit his full-contact reps. The team may carry a similar approach into the regular season, using Eifert primarily in high-leverage situations like third downs and in the red zone. Behind Eifert, C.J. Uzomah has had a strong offseason and is pushing Tyler Kroft for playing time. If Eifert gets hurt again, expect both Uzomah and Kroft to contribute.

Defense: Carl Lawson is poised to build off of an excellent rookie season that saw him notch 8.5 sacks. He has added a bit of weight and is focused solely on playing defensive end after splitting time between end and linebacker last season. Lawson has been praised by veteran teammates, including Cordy Glenn, who compared Lawson to Dwight Freeney. “He’s a freak of nature,” said Glenn. “He’s fast, but then he’s got power, and at the end of the day he’s determined to get a sack every play. For most guys in the league to be good you have to have two dominant traits. He’s got three. He’s strong, fast and his motor is, ‘I have to get a sack.’ Great motor.” William Jackson continues to emerge as one of the league’s top young cornerbacks. He has held his own shadowing A.J. Green during most practices.

Returners: Over the past two years, receiver Alex Erickson has been carving out an ever-increasing role in the return game. With Adam Jones, his long-time complement, no longer on the roster, Erickson is a strong candidate to lead the league in total returns this year.

Bengals Depth Chart QB: Andy Dalton, Matt Barkley, Logan Woodside, Jeff Driskel RB: Joe Mixon, Giovani Bernard (3RB), Mark Walton, Brian Hill, Tra Carson, Jarveon Williams, Quinton Flowers FB: Ryan Hewitt (HB/TE) WR: A.J. Green, John Ross, Tyler Boyd, Josh Malone, Alex Erickson (KR/PR), Auden Tate, Cody Core, Ka′Raun White, Levonte Whitfield TE: Tyler Eifert, Tyler Kroft, C.J. Uzomah, Cethan Carter, Mason Schreck, Scott Orndoff LT: Cordy Glenn, Cedric Ogbuehi

LG: Clint Boling, Christian Westerman C: Billy Price, T.J. Johnson RG: Trey Hopkins RT: Jake Fisher , Bobby Hart, Alex Redmond K: Randy Bullock, Jon Brown DT: Geno Atkins, Andrew Billings, Ryan Glasgow, Chris Baker, Andrew Brown, Josh Tupou DE: Carlos Dunlap, Jordan Willis, Michael Johnson, Sam Hubbard, Ja′Von Rolland-Jones MLB: Vincent Rey (W), Preston Brown, Jordan Evans, Hardy Nickerson OLB: Vontaze Burfict (W) (susp), Nick Vigil (S), Carl Lawson (S/DE), Malik Jefferson, Brandon Bell, Chris Worley CB: Dre Kirkpatrick, Darqueze Dennard, William Jackson III, Adam Jones, Davontae Harris, Darius Phillips, Josh Shaw, KeiVarae Russell, Sojourn Shelton, Tony McRae, C.J. Goodwin S: George Iloka (FS), Clayton Fejedelem (SS), Shawn Williams (SS), Jessie Bates (FS), Brandon Wilson (FS), Robinson Therezie Coaches: Head Coach: Marvin Lewis, Off Coord: Bill Lazor, QB Coach: Alex VanPelt, RB Coach: Kyle Caskey, WR Coach: Bob Bicknell, TE Coach: Jonathan Hayes, OL Coach: Bob Wylie, OL Coach: Frank Pollack, SpecTm Coach: Darrin Simmons, Def Coord: Teryl Austin, DL Coach: Jacob Burney, LB Coach: Jim Haslett, DB Coach: Robert Livingston, DB Coach: Daronte Jones

Cleveland Browns

QB: Despite the team taking Baker Mayfield number one overall in the draft, head coach Hue Jackson has made it clear that Tyrod Taylor will be the Week 1 starter. “I'm not going to change,” Jackson told the media regarding the decision to have Taylor lead the offense. While his play in camp has been labeled conservative by some, Taylor has already made a favorable impression with teammates. Linebacker Christian Kirksey said of Taylor: “Tyrod has changed the culture. Just seeing his track record playing in the league, not having as many turnovers, taking Buffalo to the playoffs last year -- being around a guy like that, who really understands the name of the game and understands how to lead guys, I’m excited to see what he can do when it comes to Week One and to see how the offense moves forward.” There is clearly no quarterback competition, but that is not to say that Baker Mayfield hasn’t performed well. The rookie has had a strong camp and has worked tirelessly to absorb instruction from Tyrod Taylor and journeyman Drew Stanton. He was interception-free through the early practices and showed impressive accuracy.

RB: Carlos Hyde has set high expectations for himself. When asked if he could rush for 1,000 yards this season, he said, “Why stop at 1,000 rushing yards? I’d like to raise the bar a little higher than just 1,000. I want to aim for the top rusher in the NFL, not just 1,000.” It will be difficult to accomplish this feat with both Duke

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Johnson and Nick Chubb also demanding touches. Johnson made known his preference to be in a receiving role as the primary slot receiver, and if his recent contract extension and last year’s usage is any indication, he may get his wish. Chubb has earned the nickname “Old School” at practice because of his refusal to wear gloves and his no-nonsense running style.

WR: Josh Gordon remains away from the team and is rumored to be working out privately while receiving mental health treatment in Gainesville, Florida. He was put on the Non-football Injury List and will need reinstatement from the Commissioner before he can begin playing again. In Gordon’s absence, Jarvis Landry has cemented himself as Tyrod Taylor’s favorite target. Rookie Antonio Callaway made it back after suffering a groin injury in organized team activities and is being used primarily as a deep threat. Rishard Higgins, who is fighting for a roster spot, seems to have a great rapport with Baker Mayfield. Ricardo Louis is out for the season due to having a surgical procedure on the neck injury he suffered last year. Finally, the Corey Coleman era ended with a whimper, as the Bills acquired the mercurial receiver for a 2020 seventh-round draft pick. Coleman’s departure and Gordon’s continued absence has reignited speculation Dez Bryant could sign soon. For now, it remains pure speculation, but the Browns currently lack experience beyond Landry.

TE: David Njoku has had a rough camp, particularly with drops. Behind him, Seth DeValve and Darren Fells are competing for the primary backup job. DeValve has a thigh injury that has held him out of recent practices and Fells has been quiet. Rookie Julian Allen has worked with the second team. So far, he’s made the most of this opportunity.

K: Zane Gonzalez was a disappointment last year, so the team brought in Ross Martin to compete with him. Martin has been effective so far, showing his distance on a 50+ yard field goal during the team’s intrasquad scrimmage. Hue Jackson praised Martin for doing a “nice job” but cautioned the team is “a long way from deciding who is on this team.”

Defense: Though Gregg Williams has gotten a great deal of criticism from the media and fans, Myles Garrett has stated that he enjoys playing in Williams’ scheme. Garrett missed the eighth day of practice and was seen wearing a sleeve on his knee, leaving speculation that he may be dealing with a minor knee issue. Fortunately, he was without the sleeve at practice on Monday. Garrett, Emmanuel Ogbah, and Jamie Collins are excited to play together after the three hardly spent time together last year due to injuries. "I think it will be a scary combination,'' said Garrett. "(Collins) can rush anywhere he wants to. I know Emmanuel can move in and I can move in. … We can

be effective anywhere across the line, and then you sprinkle him in, it makes a combo that people have to watch out for." Recent addition Mychal Kendricks has been making play after play in padded practices and could crack the starting lineup. After being sidelined with a groin injury, Jabrill Peppers was cleared to begin practicing again and was excited to get back to business. Terrance Mitchell was glowing in his praise of rookie corner Denzel Ward. “Denzel is young and hungry,” Mitchell said. “I’m a believer in the ‘it’ factor. He has it.”

Returners: In 2017, rookie safety Jabrill Peppers handled the bulk of the returns. Despite playing a larger role on defense in 2018, Peppers is an early favorite to keep his job on special teams. He is listed atop the initial depth chart at both punt and kickoff returner.

Browns Depth Chart QB: Tyrod Taylor, Drew Stanton, Baker Mayfield, Joel Stave RB: Carlos Hyde, Duke Johnson (WR/KR), Nick Chubb, Matt Dayes, Josh Rounds FB: Dan Vitale, Marquez Williams WR: Josh Gordon, Jarvis Landry, Antonio Callaway, Rashard Higgins, Jeff Janis, Damion Ratley, Kasen Williams, Matt Hazel, C.J. Board, Ricardo Louis (IR) TE: David Njoku, Seth Devalve, Darren Fells, Devon Cajuste, Julian Allen LT: Shon Coleman, Rod Johnson LG: Joel Bitonio, Spencer Drango C: JC Tretter, Austin Reiter RG: Kevin Zeitler, Austin Corbett RT: Chris Hubbard, Donald Stephenson K: Zane Gonzalez DT: Trevon Coley, Larry Ogunjobi, Jamie Meder, Caleb Brantley, Trenton Thompson, Zaycoven Henderson, Lenny Jones DE: Myles Garrett, Emmanuel Ogbah, Chris Smith, Chad Thomas, Carl Nassib, Nate Orchard, Collin Bevins, Jeremy Faulk, Ricky Ali′ifua MLB: Joe Schobert, Dominique Alexander, Genard Avery, Tank Carder OLB: Jamie Collins (S)(inj), Christian Kirksey (W), Mychal Kendricks (W/M), James Burgess (S), B.J. Bello, Josh Keyes (RFA) CB: Denzel Ward, Travis Carrie, Terrance Mitchell, E.J. Gaines, Briean Boddy-Calhoun (inj), Simeon Thomas, Michael Jordan, Reggie Porter, Denzel Rice, Trevon Hartfield, Howard Wilson (IR) S: Damarious Randall (FS), Derrick Kindred (inj), Jabrill Peppers (SS/PR/KR), Derron Smith, Darius Hilary, Justin Currie, Kai Nacua Coaches: Head Coach: Hue Jackson, Off Coord: Todd Haley, QB Coach: Ken Zampese, RB Coach: Freddie Kitchens, WR Coach: Adam Henry, TE Coach: Greg Seamon, SpecTm Coach: Amos Jones, Def Coord: Gregg Williams, DL Coach: Clyde Simmons, LB Coach: Blake Williams, DB Coach: DeWayne Walker

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Dallas Cowboys

QB: Dak Prescott has had an up-and-down camp, so far. Calvin Watkins of The Athletic said, “managing [the offense] is something Prescott is doing, though you would like to see more completions down the field in team drills and some results in the red zone. Prescott’s touch seems a bit off; either he’s overthrowing a receiver, or it’s an underthrow. It doesn’t matter if it’s a deep ball or something short.” It would be less concerning if Prescott were learning a new system, but this is his third year playing in Jason Garrett and Scott Linehan’s offense. In the annual Blue/White scrimmage (Sunday, August 5th), the defense had four interceptions, including two from Prescott during the two-minute drill. Mike White has yet to make a credible push for the No. 2 job against Cooper Rush.

RB: Ezekiel Elliott is doing his best to make people forget last year’s debacle. He had a quiet offseason, and those close to him say he’s matured and learned to stay out of the limelight. Elliott showed up to camp in fantastic shape and has, without question, been the team’s best offensive player. The Cowboys line has also returned to elite status, which makes Elliott’s renewed focus all the more enticing. The backup roles are undefined heading into the opening preseason game. Rookie Bo Scarbrough has done nothing but impress, but he’s also deferred to Rod Smith as a veteran leader; Smith is an elite pass protector which makes him a logical choice as the No. 2. Neither is guaranteed much playing time with Elliott in prime form, but whoever gets the backup role would be a sought-after commodity considering how well the Cowboys line run blocks.

WR: Ask six beat writers who the No. 1 receiver is, and you’ll probably get six different answers. A case can be made for incumbent Terrance Williams, rookie Michael Gallup, acquired veteran Tavon Austin, free agent veteran Allen Hurns, proven slot ace Cole Beasley, or journeyman Deonte Thompson. All six have run with the first-team at times. Based on snap counts, Hurns, Gallup, and Beasley are vying for the largest pieces of the pie. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan has been rotating the group by design but expects more defined roles to emerge in the coming weeks. "Right now, you guys have probably noticed, we're moving guys around a lot," Linehan said. "That's a positive, especially early and now. But the thing that's gotta be improved upon is OK, when it gets down to crunch time, this is the guy, he's a go-to player in this route or this play." Terrance Williams has been quiet in camp, running with the second team almost exclusively. The coaches are downplaying the second-team relegation as a result of bringing Williams along slowly following an offseason foot injury. Time will tell. Williams may be too inexpensive and experienced to cut, but he would make a compelling trade chip to the receiver-starved Seahawks if Earl Thomas does become available.

Thompson has an Achilles injury, which could derail his strong camp if the injury persists. Rookie Cedrick Wilson’s season-ending injury thins competition for the final roster spot.

TE: Replacing Jason Witten isn’t going to be easy, and two weeks into training camp it’s taken a committee of players to fill the role. Geoff Swaim is, by far, the best pass blocking tight end on the roster and it’ll be hard to keep him off the field on obvious run downs. Rookie Dalton Schultz has flashed but needs to build consistency, and improve his blocking. Blake Jarwin is the most gifted receiver of the group and has gotten more first-team reps than the others, but it’s still a plurality heading into the opening preseason game.

K: Dan Bailey was a perennially reliable fantasy kicker until last year when a groin injury robbed his distance and accuracy. He has been okay through two weeks but missed a pair of 40-yard kicks a few days ago which raises some concern.

Defense: DeMarcus Lawrence, the team’s franchise player, has been the best pass rusher in camp; it’s no surprise. Who starts opposite Lawrence remains a question, as Randy Gregory needs a few weeks of preseason game action to stake his claim. Sean Lee is sitting out of padded practices, for precautionary reasons. The coaches are comfortable with Lee’s grasp of the defense and want to try to keep him healthy for a full 16-game schedule, for once. Rookie Leighton Vander Esch has handled coverage duties well, as expected, but has been inconsistent otherwise. He’ll be given a shot at covering opposing team’s best slot receiver or tight end in the preseason; a baptism by fire, of sorts. Watkins sees a marked improvement in the cornerback play this year, thanks to a focus on press coverage. “The first-team corners, Byron Jones and Chidobe Awuzie, are fantastic on the outside, with Anthony Brown distancing himself as the slot corner with the first team. Jourdan Lewis is the second-team slot corner, and he’s made some strong plays as well,” said Watkins. At safety, things are less assured. Jeff Heath is smart, and a willing tackler, but he can’t cover dynamic receivers one-on-one. Xavier Woods has made plays but has also been out of position often enough to raise a red flag. The Cowboys continue to be linked to disgruntled All-Pro Earl Thomas – who continues to hold out of Seattle’s camp – but nothing official appears imminent.

Returners: New acquisition Tavon Austin has handled the majority of first-team reps at punt returner. Austin's performance as a returner with his old team – the Rams – steadily declined until he eventually was replaced.

Cowboys Depth Chart QB: Dak Prescott, Cooper Rush, Mike White, Zac Dysert RB: Ezekiel Elliott, Rod Smith, Tavon Austin (WR/PR), Bo Scarbrough, Trey Williams

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FB: Jamize Olawale WR: Allen Hurns, Michael Gallup, Cole Beasley, Terrance Williams (inj), Deonte Thompson, Noah Brown, K.D. Cannon, Cedrick Wilson (IR) TE: Geoff Swaim, Blake Jarwin, Dalton Schultz, Rico Gathers, Lance Lenoir, David Wells LT: Tyron Smith, Chaz Green LG: Connor Williams, Kadeem Edwards C: Travis Frederick, Joe Looney RG: Zack Martin RT: Lael Collins, Cameron Fleming K: Dan Bailey DT: Maliek Collins (inj), David Irving (susp), Jihad Ward, Datone Jones, Brian Price, Richard Ash, Daniel Ross DE: DeMarcus Lawrence (UFA-F), Tyrone Crawford, Taco Charlton, Randy Gregory, Dorance Armstrong Jr., Charles Tapper (inj), Kony Ealy MLB: Leighton Vander Esch (W), Joe Thomas OLB: Sean Lee, Damien Wilson (S), Jaylon Smith (S), Justin March-Lillard, Chris Covington, Joel Lanning (FB) CB: Chidobe Awuzie, Byron Jones, Anthony Brown, Jourdan Lewis, Duke Thomas, Marquez White S: Jeff Heath (SS), Xavier Woods (FS), Kavon Frazier (FS), Marqueston Huff, Kyle Queiro, Jameill Showers, Kameron Kelly, Jason Thompson Coaches: Head Coach: Jason Garrett, Off Coord: Scott Linehan, QB Coach: Kellen Moore, RB Coach: Gary Brown, WR Coach: Sanjay Lal, TE Coach: Doug Nussmeier, OL Coach: Paul Alexander, Def Coord: Rod Marinelli, DL Coach: Leon Lett, LB Coach: Ben Bloom, DB Coach: Kris Richard, DB Coach: Greg Jackson

Denver Broncos

QB: New starter Case Keenum created a buzz right off the bat, opening camp with five straight interception-free days. Fresh off watching Broncos passers throw the league’s sixth-most picks over the past two years, the team seems poised to ask a bit less of its quarterback in clutch 2018 situations. Keenum, who was not effective down the field in Minnesota last year, will likely be even more of a low-risk caretaker than Trevor Siemian was. Former first-round pick Paxton Lynch currently has little competition for the backup job, and his training camp performance offers a reason for measured optimism. Lynch has shown noticeable improvement, if only against scout defenses, at creating plays downfield and outside the pocket with his legs. There’s still chatter about the team looking to upgrade behind Keenum, but Lynch has held steady through the two weeks.

RB: There’s a bit of a logjam atop the depth chart, but rookie Royce Freeman has looked most impressive thus far. Third-year Devontae Booker opened camp in the starting lineup, but Freeman boasts a strong talent edge as a runner. Drafted at 229 pounds, and fresh off a 1,026-touch career at Oregon, Freeman looks custom-built for the Broncos’ ball-control offensive plans. His

vision and power have been praised on interior runs, and his cutting ability has also impressed, helping to spring him for a long touchdown last Wednesday. Seventh-round rookie David Williams, the team’s second-biggest back at 224 pounds, has shown well in short yardage. Still, last year’s preseason darling, DeAngelo Henderson, looms as the most likely to capture the No. 3 job. He ripped off a handful of long gains as a rookie, and he’s at it again, drawing early praise from offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave. “The guy who looked really good, I think initially, is De’Angelo,” Musgrave said. “He’s gone five or six weeks and I feel like he’s really done a nice job. He was doing a good job in the spring, too. It’s a very deep group.”

WR: For years, Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders have dominated the passing attack. That’s unlikely to change in 2018, but second-round rookie Courtland Sutton keeps making a case for time alongside them. In fact, he’s lining up with the starters more often than he’s not. Sutton is hauling in tough, contested catches down the field every day. Last Friday, he skyed for a 46-yarder despite blatant pass interference, and then beat All-Pro Chris Harris for a completion on the next snap. Sutton has outpaced fellow rookie DaeSean Hamilton and second-year Carlos Henderson, thus far. Henderson, embroiled in some sticky issues with the team, looks less likely every day to make the final roster. He may be battling Isaiah McKenzie and Tim Patrick just for a special teams role as the No. 6 man.

TE: Second-year tight end Jake Butt has been presumed all offseason as the Broncos’ starter, but a timeshare is starting to look more likely. Butt should open the year as the top slot (move) tight end, but undrafted journeyman Austin Traylor has excelled, mainly as a blocker. The team could use these two in tandem with Traylor playing the inline role formerly held by Virgil Green while Butt replaces A.J. Derby as the pass-catcher.

Defense: Through a week of camp, the cornerback position has been squarely in focus. With All-Pro Aqib Talib gone, the Broncos will rely heavily on new starter Bradley Roby and a host of youngsters to reestablish the smothering, splash-play coverage they struggled to deliver last season. Third-round rookie Isaac Yiadom has impressed – especially in man coverage against the Courtland Sutton. A replenished pass rush will help the secondary, and future Hall of Fame pass rusher DeMarcus Ware is assisting as a consultant. Top pick Bradley Chubb and second-year end DeMarcus Walker have flashed the ability to chase plays outside and close fast, while new addition Clinton McDonald “feels 100 percent” and will see plenty of penetration snaps.

Returners: There is an open competition for the punt return job, with incumbent Isaiah McKenzie trying to hold

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off DaeSean Hamilton, Brenden Langley, and Phillip Lindsay. When asked about their progress, special teams coordinator Tom McMahon said, "I like what they’re doing. I’ll be upfront with you; I think we have a long way to go with all of them."

Broncos Depth Chart QB: Case Keenum, Chad Kelly, Paxton Lynch RB: Devontae Booker (3RB), Royce Freeman, De′Angelo Henderson, Phillip Lindsay, David Williams FB: Andy Janovich WR: Demaryius Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders, Courtland Sutton, DaeSean Hamilton, Isaiah McKenzie, Jordan Taylor (inj), Carlos Henderson, Tim Patrick, Kenny Bell, Corey Brown, Jordan Leslie, River Cracaft TE: Jake Butt, Jeff Heuerman, Austin Traylor, Troy Fumagalli, Matt LaCosse, Brian Parker LT: Garett Bolles, Allen Barbre LG: Ronald Leary, Max Garcia, Jeremiah Poutasi C: Matt Paradis RG: Connor McGovern, Sam Jones, Billy Turner RT: Jared Veldheer, Menelik Watson, Cyrus Kounadijo K: Brandon McManus NT: Domata Peko, Clinton McDonald, Kyle Peko, Paul Boyette, DeShawn Williams DE: Derek Wolfe (inj), Adam Gotsis, Zach Kerr, Shelby Harris, Jhaustin Thomas ILB: Brandon Marshall, Todd Davis, Josey Jewell, Zaire Anderson, Joseph Jones, Jerrol Garcia-Williams OLB: Von Miller (W), Bradley Chubb, Shane Ray (inj), Shaquil Barrett (S)(RFA), DeMarcus Walker (W), Jeff Holland, Keishawn Bierria, Deiontrez Mount, Marcus Rush, Stansly Maponga CB: Chris Harris Jr., Bradley Roby, Brendan Langley (KR/PR), Tramaine Brock, Isaac Yiadom, Michael Hunter, Marcus Rios, C.J. Smith S: Darian Stewart (SS), Justin Simmons (FS), Su′a Cravens, Will Parks (FS), Jamal Carter (SS), Dymonte Thomas, Jordan Moore Coaches: Head Coach: Vance Joseph, Off Coord: Bill Musgrave, QB Coach: Mike Sullivan, RB Coach: Curtis Modkins, WR Coach: Zach Azzanni, TE Coach: Geep Chryst, OL Coach: Chris Strausser, OL Coach: Sean Kugler, SpecTm Coach: Tom McMahon, Def Coord: Joe Woods, DL Coach: Bill Kollar, LB Coach: Reggie Herring, DB Coach: Greg Williams, DB Coach: Marcus Robertson

Detroit Lions

QB: Matthew Stafford still throws with incredible velocity and his arm strength stands out per Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. Needless to say, Stafford is entrenched as the starter. However, there is a camp battle for the backup job as veteran Matt Cassel was brought in to compete with the younger Jake Rudock. There’s no separation through the first week as both have had good and bad moments. Cassel is a veteran passer with plenty of time under his belt and is probably the better option if Stafford were to miss time, but he lacks upside. Rudock is a smart, young quarterback and

he can extend plays with his feet, but he needs experience. The competition is likely to go down to the wire.

RB: The team will probably deploy a committee approach again this year. Rookie Kerryon Johnson has shown that he is a complete player throughout the first week of camp. The Free Press’ Dave Birkett reports that Johnson is showing off running, catching, and in pass protection. Pass protection is an underappreciated key to getting on the field as a young player, and Johnson is doing a nice job thus far. The Detroit News’ Justin Rogers reported that Johnson was holding his own, and that will significantly help him as camp moves along. LeGarrette Blount will also play a key role. Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com says Blount has shown versatility to get to the corner with speed and the ability to gain extra yards using his big body to move the pile. Theo Riddick is firmly entrenched as the third-down back, and he continues to be a nightmare matchup against linebackers in space. Justin Rogers called him a critical cog in the offense because of his third-down role. Ameer Abdullah is still quick and very talented. He has flashed in camp, but he faces an uphill battle for playing time, if not his roster spot. Abdullah, to his credit, is focusing on what’s in his own control. Mike O’Hara of DetroitLions.com reports that Abdullah’s work ethic and determination have stood out in camp thus far.

WR: The Lions have a fantastic duo in Golden Tate and Marvin Jones, and both have shown how and where they can win on the football field. Tate is expected to continue to take short throws and make defenders miss while generating yards after the catch. Jones will work the boundary and down the field and he has repeatedly exploited defenders in practice. Mike Mulholland of www.Mlive.com says that he has not seen a better player in camp than Jones. Second-year receiver Kenny Golladay is in store for a more significant workload and has looked sharp. Tim Twentyman wrote about Golladay’s big-play ability, his ability to high-point the football, and his body control while adjusting to the ball in the air. These are all positive traits that can lead to explosive plays. Golladay has a chance to be a breakout performer this year, particularly if Tate or Jones get hurt. T.J. Jones is reliable when given an opportunity. Jace Billingsley is physically suited to a slot role, and he has been studying film of Patriots receiver Julian Edelman to learn the intricacies of the position. Billingsley has had a good camp and could fill the fifth receiver role. Teo Redding and Brandon Powell have made good impressions, but it’s hard to see them hold down roster spots once final cuts are made.

TE: Veteran Luke Willson was signed to replace Eric Ebron, and looks the part so far. Willson is athletic, and he can run up the seam to stretch the field. Michael Roberts is a second-year option and is a big-bodied, redzone two-way threat. Jeff Risdon of Lionswire.com

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noted that Roberts dropped a few passes during practice last week and needs to improve if he wants a regular role in the offense. Levine Toilolo is another free agent addition, but he’s primarily a blocker.

Defense: New head coach Matt Patricia is overhauling the scheme. Expect the Lions to run both 4-3 and 3-4 looks based upon the opponent. Defensive end Ezekiel Ansah is playing on the franchise tag for $17.1 million as the sides failed to agree to a long-term extension. The defensive star began camp on the PUP list as he dealt with a minor knee injury, but he was cleared to practice this week. Linebacker Jarrad Davis is expected to have a prominent role in the middle of the defense as the linebackers are the stars in Patricia’s system. There is a lot to be worked through and much to be determined as we are only a week into camp. The Lions have multiple options in the secondary with players like Darius Slay, DeShawn Shead, Quandre Diggs, Nevin Lawson, Jamal Agnew and Glover Quin, and they can play a chess game matching up against opponents.

Returners: The Lions are hoping to find a replacement for Jamal Agnew, despite earning All-Pro honors as a returner last year, on kickoff returns. If they're successful, it will allow Agnew to focus more on punt returns and perhaps even see a few more snaps on offense.

Lions Depth Chart QB: Matthew Stafford, Matt Cassel, Jake Rudock RB: Kerryon Johnson, LeGarrette Blount (SD), Theo Riddick (3RB), Ameer Abdullah, Zach Zenner, Dwayne Washington, Tion Green FB: Nick Bawden (IR) WR: Golden Tate, Marvin Jones, Kenny Golladay, T.J. Jones, Jace Billingsley, Teo Redding, Bradley Marquez, Dontez Ford, Brandon Powell, Chris Lacy, Kyle Lewis TE: Luke Willson, Michael Roberts, Levine Toilolo, Hakeem Valles, DeAndre Goolsby, Brandon Barnes, Wes Saxton LT: Taylor Decker, Brian Mihalik LG: TJ Lang, Joe Dahl C: Graham Glasgow RG: Frank Ragnow, Kenny Wiggins RT: Rick Wagner, Tyrell Crosby K: Matt Prater DT: A′Shawn Robinson, Sylvester Williams, Da′Shawn Hand, Jeremiah Ledbetter, Rodney Coe, JoJo Wicker, Toby Johnson DE: Ezekiel Ansah, Kerry Hyder, Anthony Zettel, Cornelius Washington, Jeremiah Valoaga, Alex Barrett MLB: Jarrad Davis, Nick Bellore, Al-Rasheed Benton OLB: Jalen Reeves-Maybin (W), Christian Jones, Devon Kennard, Jonathan Freeny, Steve Longa, Cam Johnson, Chad Meredith CB: Darius Slay, Teez Tabor, Nevin Lawson, Deshawn Shead, Jamal Agnew (PR), Mike Ford S: Glover Quin (FS), Tavon Wilson (SS), Quandre Diggs (SS/CB), Miles Killebrew (SS), Tracy Walker (FS), Charles Washington, Stefan McClure, Rolan Milligan Coaches: Head Coach: Matt Patricia, Off Coord: Jim Bob Cooter, QB

Coach: George Godsey, WR Coach: Robert Prince, TE Coach: Chris White, OL Coach: Jeff Davidson, SpecTm Coach: Joe Marciano, Def Coord: Paul Pasqualoni, DL Coach: Bo Davis, LB Coach: Al Golden, DB Coach: Brian Stewart

Green Bay Packers

QB: Aaron Rodgers shook up thin-skinned camp observers by throwing seven interceptions over the first six days of camp, but common sense reigned on the seventh when the all-time great uncorked a dazzling fourth-down touchdown pass to Geronimo Allison. Rodgers is healthy after last year’s lost season, taking every expected camp snap thus far, and seems poised for a typical MVP-caliber campaign. Behind him, though, there’s a battle. Brett Hundley faceplanted last year in Rodgers’ stead, and the team dealt for fellow 2017 trainwreck DeShone Kizer to compete for the backup role. Kizer, at just 22 years old, has youth on his side and impressed with a perfect back-shoulder throw last Saturday. He seems to have a slight edge on Hundley at this point.

RB: Aaron Jones is suspended for the first two games and hasn’t won back the coaches’ confidence in camp, missing more than half the first week with a hamstring injury. Jamaal Williams looks most likely to start Week 1 and perhaps beyond, with Ty Montgomery as the primary passing-down back. Williams seemed painfully average as a rookie, but he added speed and explosiveness in the offseason. Montgomery’s role looks most secure, particularly with Randall Cobb re-aggravating an ankle injury. Devante Mays doesn’t look long for this roster. Last year he fumbled on two of his four rookie carries, and he left last Friday’s practice with a nagging hamstring injury. Massive rookie Joel Bouagnon (6-foot-2, 230 pounds) could seize this chance to move up.

WR: For the first time since 2007, the Packers enter training camp without Jordy Nelson. They sought to compensate with quantity through the draft, adding three big-bodied rookies over the 4th through 7th rounds. Through a week and a half of camp, there’s been plenty of optimism, especially about fourth-rounder J’Mon Moore and seventh-rounder Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Moore has drawn a healthy chunk of first-team reps, playing multiple receiver positions, while Valdes-Scantling has looked raw but physical and instinctive. The Packers have also seen early development from practice-squad journeyman Jake Kumerow, a 6-foot-4, 209-pounder from tiny Wisconsin-Whitewater. Aaron Rodgers has sung Kumerow’s praises: “[Kumerow] has had a fantastic camp… He’s made a ton of plays, did it all spring and summer, and now he’s getting reps with me and making a ton of

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plays.” The team needs quick contributions from the rookies, especially if Randall Cobb’s nagging ankle injury continues to keep him off the field. The fact that Cobb had ankle surgery over the summer, then was pulled from practice last Friday and didn’t return, is troubling. It’s safe to expect Geronimo Allison, a longtime favorite of Rodgers, to get most of the No. 2 reps in the meantime.

TE: Veteran Marcedes Lewis has made a quick impression on his new coaches. "His ability to cut off and anchor on a block and maintain at the line of scrimmage has been impressive," head coach McCarthy said. "Frankly, we haven't really had that here with a man of his size and his ability." Lewis brings a complement to Lance Kendricks in the in-line game, while Jimmy Graham plays almost exclusively from the slot. Graham, for his part, found the end zone for the first time as a Packer last Tuesday on an impressive hookup with Rodgers. Graham beat blanket coverage from safety Marwin Evans by skying high and pulling in a short throw in the end zone.

Defense: The team is revamping their ever-disappointing secondary yet again, now under new defensive coordinator Mike Pettine. Early returns are strong, at least on first-round cornerback Jaire Alexander, who’s already making plays from the slot with the first team. Alexander impressively jumped a Rodgers throw to Cobb for an interception in his first practice and hasn’t looked back; he’ll likely start inside come Week 1. In the front seven, the team is looking for relief at inside linebacker after losing Jake Ryan to a torn ACL. Third-round rookie Oren Burks seems like the early frontrunner for those reps but is a raw converted safety who may need seasoning. General manager Brian Gutekunst preaches patience with the team’s bevy of youngsters, saying, “We have some young players that show some promise out there, and we’d kind of like them to continue to grow into those kind of roles and see what we have. At the same time, we’re kind of always on the scenes preparing for everything.”

Returners: Trevor Davis enters the year with a commanding hold on the job after a dominating in the role last season.

Packers Depth Chart QB: Aaron Rodgers, Brett Hundley, DeShone Kizer RB: Jamaal Williams, Aaron Jones (susp), Ty Montgomery, Devante Mays FB: Aaron Ripkowski, Joe Kerridge WR: Davante Adams, Randall Cobb, Geronimo Allison, J′Mon Moore, Equanimeous St.Brown, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Trevor Davis (KR/PR), DeAngelo Yancey, Colby Pearson, Jake Kumerow, Herb Waters TE: Jimmy Graham, Lance Kendricks, Marcedes Lewis, Damon Gibson, Emanuel Byrd, Kevin Rader LT: David Bakhtiari, Jason Spriggs LG: Lane Taylor, Adam Pankey

C: Corey Linsley, Lucas Patrick RG: Justin McCray, Cole Madison RT: Bryan Bulaga, Kyle Murphy K: Mason Crosby NT: Kenny Clark, Tyler Lancaster DE: Mike Daniels, Muhammad Wilkerson, Dean Lowry, James Looney, Montravius Adams ILB: Blake Martinez, Oren Burks, Jake Ryan (IR) OLB: Clay Matthews (inj), Nick Perry (inj), Kyler Fackrell, Vince Biegel, Kendall Donnerson, Chris Odom CB: Kevin King, Quinten Rollins, Jaire Alexander, Josh Jackson, Tramon Williams, Davon House, Josh Hawkins, Lenzy Pipkins, Donatello Brown S: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (FS), Josh Jones, Marwin Evans, Kentrell Brice, Jermaine Whitehead, Ahmad Thomas Coaches: Head Coach: Mike McCarthy, Off Coord: Joe Philbin, QB Coach: Frank Cignetti, RB Coach: Ben Sirmans, WR Coach: David Raih, TE Coach: Brian Angelichio, OL Coach: James Campen, SpecTm Coach: Ron Zook, Def Coord: Mike Pettine, LB Coach: Winston Moss, LB Coach: Patrick Graham, DB Coach: Jason Simmons

Houston Texans

QB: Deshaun Watson is fully recovered from his ACL injury. He is practicing without restrictions and has shown no hesitation in using his athleticism. “I think he’s looked very good," quarterbacks coach Sean Ryan said. "To me, there doesn’t seem to be any sort of apprehension on his part. He’s out there, he’s doing what he does, moving around very well. So, I think to this point, I think all signs are positive.”

RB: D’Onta Foreman remains on the physically unable to perform list, and it's unclear if he'll be ready for the start of the regular season, as he recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon. "I think he's progressing well," coach Bill O'Brien said. "I think he's doing well. He's on the right track, and we'll see. We'll see how it goes, but I think he's headed in the right direction." Foreman’s recovery is a key storyline to follow this month. He was coming on strong in a promising rookie season before the injury happened in November. If Foreman is unable to return, Lamar Miller should be in line for a heavy workload in what could be an elite offense. Miller is leaner, lighter and noticeably more explosive after dropping eight pounds to get down to 217 pounds, the lightest he has been since his days with the Dolphins. "When I first got here, I was more focused on putting more weight on to be bigger and stronger,” said Miller. “The past two years, I felt kind of heavy, so I just tried to change something. I felt like if I get back to my playing weight back in 2015 and 2014, then I should be good.” Behind Miller and Foreman (when healthy), the rest of the depth chart is wide open. Alfred Blue is going into his fifth season with the Texans, and his experience is a plus. But, he signed a one-year deal with very little guaranteed money and is on the roster bubble,

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trying to beat out a trio of undrafted rookies. Lavon Coleman is the most impressive of the rookies, fueling speculation he could start the season as the No. 2. Terry Swanson and Troymaine Pope have also had their moments and are squarely in the mix for a roster spot.

WR: DeAndre Hopkins has an undeniable connection with Deshaun Watson. Expect the star receiver to pick up right where he left off last season. Fellow starter and deep threat Will Fuller has gained 15 to 20 pounds this offseason after working diligently with Texans trainers on a nutrition and weight training program. “Whatever it takes to help my team win,” Fuller said on what his goals are for this season. “I know one of those things is just staying healthy. That’s the big thing for me this year, just staying healthy. That’s what I want to do.” The added weight and strength should help Fuller’s durability. Rookie fourth-rounder Keke Coutee was making an early impression before suffering a hamstring injury. “He’s a guy that’s versatile," Watson said of Coutee. "He can do a lot of things in the slot position. A lot of guys are going have to really be on their toes to cover him. He’s a very instinctive and smart guy, a guy that learns very quickly and understands what the defense is doing to him. He just finds openings and he’s a guy that snatches the ball out there. It’s going to be a great addition for us.” Coutee is expected to miss several weeks. Braxton Miller has shown versatility, durability, and more consistent hands. The injury to Coutee helps Miller’s chances of holding onto the primary slot receiver job, at least to start the season. "He’s come a long ways in the years he’s been here," O'Brien said of Miller. "Again, he’s going to have to go out there and continue to get better and improve, but I do see a lot of improvement with him.”

TE: One of the best battles in Texans camp is at tight end. “You have some really stiff competition up and down,” O’Brien said. “Some guys that maybe haven’t played a lot of football in the NFL, but have, I think, really good futures as long as they keep working and trying to get better. So, it’s a very competitive position.” Veteran Ryan Griffin should be considered the early favorite to start, but the Texans spent mid-round picks on Jordan Akins and Jordan Thomas. Both have intriguing upside as pass catchers. Stephen Anderson is still hanging around as well.

K: The Texans brought in no competition for Ka’imi Fairbairn, but they may rethink that after an ugly practice session using narrow goalposts was rife with misses, including kicks that would have missed on regulation uprights, according to the Houston Press. Fairbairn did earn good marks for practicing in sloppy conditions while new special teams coordinator Brad Seely is evaluating him.

Defense: Jadeveon Clowney should be ready for Week 1 after being eased into training camp after undergoing

arthroscopic knee surgery. “He’s been very limited in terms of what he’s done on the field, but he looks great," said defensive line coach Anthony Weaver. All-World defensive stalwart J.J. Watt has been impressive early in camp; a welcome sight for Texans fans and a nightmarish reality for AFC South opponents. "Oh man, he looks like he's knocked the rust off pretty quick," Weaver said. "He's out there, he looks strong, fast, physical.” Kareem Jackson is transitioning from cornerback to safety and is locked in as the starter next to Tyrann Mathieu. He has looked natural at his new spot. "He's smart, he's instinctive and he's physical," secondary coach Anthony Midget said. "He's a guy that has played the position for us in the past when we needed to, so now he's concentrating on it and the more practice reps he gets at it, he'll just continue to get better."

Returners: Rookie Keke Coutee had an opportunity to earn the punt return job, but an early hamstring strain will sideline him for several weeks and could put a damper on his ability to make an impression.

Texans Depth Chart QB: Deshaun Watson, Brandon Weeden, Joe Webb, Stephen Morris RB: Lamar Miller, D′Onta Foreman (inj), Alfred Blue, Tyler Ervin, Lavon Coleman, Terry Swanson, Troymaine Pope FB: Jay Prosch WR: DeAndre Hopkins, Will Fuller (PR), Keke Coutee, Braxton Miller, Bruce Ellington, Sammie Coates, Jester Weah, Vyncent Smith, Chris Thompson (KR), DeAndrew White, Montay Crockett TE: Ryan Griffin, Stephen Anderson, Jordan Akins, Jordan Thomas, MyCole Pruitt, Matt Lengel, Zach Conque, Ryan Malleck LT: Julien Davenport, Kendall Lamm LG: Zach Fulton C: Nick Martin, Greg Mancz RG: Senio Kelemete, Jeff Allen (PUP) RT: Seantrel Henderson, Martinas Rankin K: Ka′imi Fairbairn NT: D.J. Reader (inj), Carlos Watkins, Chunky Clements, Darius Kilgo DE: Jadeveon Clowney (OLB), J.J. Watt, Christian Covington (inj), Brandon Dunn, Joel Heath, Angelo Blackson, Marcus Hardison, Matt Godin ILB: Benardrick McKinney (M), Zach Cunningham (W), Dylan Cole, Ben Heeney (RFA), Brian Peters (RFA) OLB: Whitney Mercilus, Brennan Scarlett (inj), Duke Ejiofor, Ufomba Kamalu, Peter Kalambayi, Gimel President, Davin Bellamy, LaTroy Lewis, Kennan Gilchrist CB: Johnathan Joseph, Kevin Johnson, Aaron Colvin, Johnson Bademosi, Jermaine Kelly, Marcus Burley, Johnthan Banks, Josh Thornton, Bryce Jones, Dee Virgin S: Tyrann Mathieu, Kareem Jackson, Justin Reid, Andre Hal, Corey Moore, Ibraheim Campbell, Kurtis Drummond, Treston DeCoud Coaches: Head Coach: Bill OBrien, QB Coach: Sean Ryan, RB Coach: Danny Barrett, WR Coach: John Perry, TE Coach: Tim Kelly, OL Coach: Mike Devlin, SpecTm Coach: Brad Seely, Def Coord: Romeo Crennel, DL Coach: Anthony Weaver, LB

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Coach: John Pagano, LB Coach: Bobby King, DB Coach: Anthony Midget

Indianapolis Colts

QB: Andrew Luck passed his first test with flying colors. He went 19-of-22 in the team’s first full-padded practice and continued to impress in team drills Wednesday, going 16-of-19 with receivers dropping two of the incompletions. Perhaps most importantly, Luck confirmed his arm strength hadn’t taken a hit during his nearly two-year rehabilitation. Luck rocketed a beautiful deep throw to wide receiver K.J. Brent in Thursday’s practice. Despite the encouraging start, the team is taking a cautious approach to Luck’s recovery from shoulder surgery by planning occasional rest days. Luck reminded everyone of how far he still has to go. “I’ll say this again; it’s going to be a long process still for me. If anything, I have learned just to be patient with myself and to sort of let things happen,” Luck said. We’ll see how much rust he has left to knock off when he plays “about a quarter” in Thursday’s preseason opener. Last year’s starter, Jacoby Brissett, is the clear backup and has the support of the front office. A day after new head coach Frank Reich called Brissett a top-20 quarterback, the team’s owner, Jim Irsay, told the Indianapolis Star they wouldn’t trade Brissett for a first-round pick.

RB: Fantasy general managers should prepare for a split backfield in Indianapolis. The leading ball carrier changes from day-to-day and Reich -- no stranger to committee backfields in his previous stops as offensive coordinator -- stated he won’t be changing his blueprint. “As we get more towards the games, we will be game-plan specific,” Reich said. “Certain guys have a little better feel on gap-scheme runs. Other runners have a better feel for zone scheme runs and you just kind of gear guys towards what they’re best.” Reich’s comments make Irsay’s claim Marlon Mack can approach 1,500 total yards this season unlikely. Mack has to contend with fifth-round draft pick Jordan Wilkins on base downs. Wilkins has opened eyes in practice since pads went on. “I think he’s making a very good impression. I’m very, very happy with the progress that he is making and he’s showing the ability to play on all three downs,” Reich said. “He’s better out of the backfield than I even thought he was going to be as a receiver. In pass protection, he’s good. He knows his stuff.” Wilkins may have the inside track for goal-line work, too. “With us going live and going goal-line, they wanted me to try to bring some physicality,” Wilkins said. “I’m trying to do that each and every day.” Fourth-round pick Nyheim Hines is also in the mix for touches. Hines, who played plenty of slot receiver at North Carolina State, has often been set in motion out of the backfield in practice when not already lined up in the slot. The Colts

curiously held onto Christine Michael after he landed on injured reserve last summer. Michael has run the ball well despite struggling with ball security and was prominently featured in team practices throughout the offseason. His chances at a roster spot improve with Robert Turbin serving a four-game suspension to begin the season.

WR: Luck hit T.Y. Hilton in stride for two gains of 30-plus yards in last Sunday’s practice. Given their familiarity, it’s no surprise the duo is already in sync. The battle for No. 2 duties in Indianapolis is far from decided, but free-agent acquisition Ryan Grant was listed as the starter opposite Hilton on the first unofficial depth chart. Grant’s stiffest competition comes from a motivated Chester Rogers and rookie standout Deon Cain. The team’s sixth-round pick out of Clemson, Cain got off to a hot start on the first day of camp and hasn’t looked back. At a recent practice, Cain caught Reich’s eye by snaring a pair of toe-tapping touchdowns in the back of the end zone through heavy coverage. “I’ve seen playmaking ability, I’ve seen really good body control,” Reich said of his rookie wideout. “Good speed. Good route runner. With a lot of young guys, you just need to fight for the consistency to do it every play. I really commend Deon, he’s come in and handled his business well and took to coaching well and he’s really gotten better over the last couple of months.” Rookie deep threat, Daurice Fountain, missed Friday’s practice with an undisclosed injury.

TE: There may be room for both Jack Doyle and Eric Ebron to be productive in Reich’s offense. Reich sounded downright giddy when discussing his tight end corps. “I’m really excited about our tight end group,” he said. “I knew what a good player Jack was. But getting him and Ebron together has been good and then the depth at tight end, the rest of those tight ends, really, I think have looked good.” Reich’s enthusiasm has been backed up by observations from practice. Doyle and Ebron were the two most active pass-catchers in last Tuesday’s workout. Ebron has lined up on the end of the line, in the slot, out wide, and has even joked about begging Reich for handoffs. The Indianapolis Star still expects a heavy dose of Doyle over the middle, while Ebron is used to create mismatches. Ebron has shed some weight and made a great first impression on Reich: “He’s a really highly intelligent football player, and that’s really good because when you want to use a guy with the versatility that he has and you can move him around and call all kinds of different things with him.”

Defense: The Colts received good news on two critical pieces of their defensive backfield. Free safety Malik Hooker, the No. 15 overall pick in last year’s draft, was activated off the PUP and appears on track for Week 1 after tearing both his ACL and MCL last year. Strong safety Clayton Geathers should be ready to start opposite Hooker in Week 1 after he was also added to

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the active roster. Anthony Walker, the team’s projected starter at middle linebacker, injured his groin and will miss a few weeks. Undrafted rookie Skai Moore has made the most Walker’s absence. "Skai has made a really good impression the first few days of camp," Reich said. “I have been happy with him, and really the key is consistency. He’s a young guy, so avoid the big mistake and communicate well. But he’s stepped up, and he’s really gotten himself in good condition. I think he’s doing a good job so far.”

Returners: The team is looking for a new return specialist after Quan Bray left for the Buffalo Bills. Their most experienced option, T.Y. Hilton, is also the most involved on offense, but Marlon Mack, Nyheim Hines, and Chester Rogers have also taken practice reps. Josh Ferguson will likely factor into the mix once he returns from injury.

Colts Depth Chart QB: Andrew Luck, Jacoby Brissett, Brad Kaaya, Phillip Walker RB: Marlon Mack, Nyheim Hines (3RB/KR), Jordan Wilkins, Robert Turbin (susp), Christine Michael, Josh Ferguson WR: T.Y. Hilton, Ryan Grant, Chester Rogers, Deon Cain, Daurice Fountain, Steve Ishmael, Krishawn Hogan, Dres Anderson, Seantavius Jones, K.J. Brent, James Wright, Kolby Listenbee (IR) TE: Jack Doyle, Eric Ebron, Erik Swoope, Darrell Daniels, Ross Travis, Jason Vander Laan, Mo Alie-Cox LT: Anthony Castonzo, LeRaven Clark, Tyreek Burwell LG: Quenton Nelson, Mark Glowinski C: Ryan Kelly RG: Matt Slauson, Braden Smith RT: Jack Mewhort, Joe Haeg, Denzelle Good K: Adam Vinatieri, Mike Badgley DT: Hassan Ridgeway, Margus Hunt, Anthony Johnson, Al Woods, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, Grover Stewart, Caraun Reid DE: Jabaal Sheard, Tarell Basham, Tyquan Lewis, Kemoko Turay, Chris McCain, John Simon, Denico Autry MLB: Antonio Morrison, Najee Goode, Tyrell Adams, Matthew Adams OLB: Jeremiah George, Darius Leonard, Anthony Walker, Zaire Franklin, Johnathan Calvin (IR) CB: Nate Hairston, Quincy Wilson, Pierre Desir, Kenny Moore II, Christopher Milton, D.J. White, Henre′ Tolliver S: Malik Hooker (FS), Mathias Farley (SS), Clayton Geathers (SS), T.J. Green (FS/CB), Ronald Martin, Michael Cirino Coaches: Head Coach: Frank Reich, Off Coord: Nick Sirianni, RB Coach: Tom Rathman, WR Coach: Kevin Patullo, TE Coach: Tom Manning, OL Coach: Dave DeGuglielmo, SpecTm Coach: Bubba Ventrone, Def Coord: Matt Eberflus, DL Coach: Mike Phair, LB Coach: Dave Borgonzi, DB Coach: Alan Williams, DB Coach: Jonathan Gannon

Jacksonville Jaguars

QB: Blake Bortles has gotten used to the anti-inflammatory medications and shots, the ice packs and

the regular trips to the treatment room when it comes to his right wrist. It is something Bortles has had to deal with over the past two seasons, and he did so without complaining. Back in January, Bortles had the problem fixed and is having the best preseason of his career. “When you do not have to worry about going to rehab or going to get treatment, you have to make sure you warm it up the right way; you have to take anti-inflammatory and do all of that stuff. It is just a lot of process to be able to go out there and do what you should be able to do without any pain,” Bortles said. “To be able to do that now finally is pretty awesome.” He is throwing the ball better, it’s leaving his hand much cleaner, and he has been more accurate. “He has gotten off to a good start, and you can see where he is a little bit ahead of where he has been in the past, which should be normal,” coach Doug Marrone said. “We are looking for him to make great strides, and he is working hard at it.”

RB: Leonard Fournette’s reported to camp at 223 pounds, which is 15 pounds lighter than he was as a rookie. He is looking quicker and leaner and gives the reasoning for reshaping his body as “I want to be great.” Behind Fournette, the Jaguars have solid depth with T.J. Yeldon and Corey Grant both putting in good showings throughout camp.

WR: Marrone has been excited about second-round selection D.J. Chark who had been impressive in consecutive days of practice last week, and capped the week off with a strong performance in the Florida Blue Family Night practice on Friday night. “He made plays; he still has a way to go for what we’re looking for,” Marrone said. “He has done a pretty good job on special teams, and he has made some plays. It will be interesting to see if those same type of plays carry over into a game atmosphere.” Chark is not the only receiver that has stood out as both Keelan Cole and Dede Westbrook have looked good in practice. Westbrook ended Friday night’s practice with an over-the-shoulder, sliding touchdown reception on a pass from Bortles. Shane Wynn is making a push for a roster spot.

TE: Austin Seferian-Jenkins has impressed. He showed off his footwork during 7-on-7 work in the red zone this week, using a double move to weave his way through the defense. He caught a well-thrown pass from Bortles for a touchdown on Friday night.

Defense: Myles Jack and Telvin Smith are going to start, but the coaches are still figuring out the linebacker configuration, including who starts alongside the veterans. Rookie Leon Jacobs has worked with the starters at strongside linebacker, and Blair Brown is working with the second team at the middle and weakside positions. Defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. remained on the PUP list recovering from a shoulder injury. The star pass rusher will miss the first game of the season on suspension, but is a critical piece to the

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Jaguars living up to their billing as the NFL’s top defense.

Returnrs: Receivers Dede Westbrook, Rashad Greene, Jaydon Mickens, and Shane Wynn are competing for the punt return job. Of the quartet, only Westbrook is a lock to make the final roster; the rest probably require a strong preseason showing on special teams to make the team.

Jaguars Depth Chart QB: Blake Bortles, Cody Kessler, Tanner Lee RB: Leonard Fournette, T.J. Yeldon (3RB), Corey Grant, Brandon Wilds, Tim Cook FB: Tommy Bohanon, Lamar Atkins WR: Marqise Lee, Keelan Cole, Dede Westbrook, D.J. Chark, Donte Moncrief, Rashad Greene, Allen Lazard, Shane Wynn, Jaydon Mickens, Tevaun Smith, DeAndre Smelter TE: Austin Seferian-Jenkins, James O′Shaughnessy, Niles Paul, Ben Koyack, David Grinnage LT: Cam Robinson, Josh Wells LG: Andrew Norwell, Josh Walker C: Brandon Linder, Tyler Shatley RG: AJ Cann, Chris Reed RT: Jermey Parnell, Will Richardson K: Josh Lambo DT: Malik Jackson, Marcell Dareus (NT), Abry Jones (NT), Taven Bryan, Michael Bennett, Eli Ankou, Sealver Siliga DE: Calais Campbell, Yannick Ngakoue, Dante Fowler Jr., Dawaune Smoot, Kapron Lewis-Moore, Carroll Phillips, Hunter Dimick MLB: Myles Jack, Brooks Ellis OLB: Telvin Smith (W), Blair Brown (S), Leon Jacobs, Donald Payne, Lerentee McCray, Deon King, Andrew Motuapuaka CB: Jalen Ramsey (inj), A.J. Bouye, D.J. Hayden, Dexter McDougle, Jalen Myrick, Tyler Patmon, Dee Delaney, Quenton Meeks, Josh Johnson, Sammy Seamster S: Barry Church (SS), Tashaun Gipson (FS), Ronnie Harrison (SS), Don Carey, Jarrod Wilson (FS), Cody Davis, Donald Payne, Charlie Miller Coaches: Head Coach: Doug Marrone, Off Coord: Nathaniel Hackett, QB Coach: Scott Milanovich, RB Coach: Tyrone Wheatley, WR Coach: Keenan McCardell, TE Coach: Ron Middleton, OL Coach: Pat Flaherty, SpecTm Coach: Joe DeCamillis, Def Coord: Todd Wash, DL Coach: Marion Hobby, LB Coach: Mark Collins, DB Coach: Perry Fewell

Kansas City Chiefs

QB: The excitement around Patrick Mahomes potential is palpable, but his three interceptions during last Thursday’s practice was a big headline this week. Mahomes called the wrong play on one of the turnovers and on another, Mahomes claimed that he would have run the ball in an actual game. According to some observers, Mahomes’ incompletions are more often drops than inaccurate passes. The downfield passing attack is working in practice, leaving observers excited by the chemistry they see between Mahomes and

Tyreek Hill. Writers are noting that Mahomes makes more full-field reads than Alex Smith, but he’s struggling most often in the red zone. Backup Chad Henne started slow but is “stringing some good days together.” Matt McGloin and rookie Chase Litton are in a tight competition for the No. 3 spot.

RB: Kareem Hunt spent a brief amount of time this week in the medical tent due to a hamstring issue. His injury isn’t serious, but the Chiefs are resting him more often as a precaution. Spencer Ware hasn’t participated in contact drills yet as he rehabs from torn PCL and LCLs last year, but he’s looked good enough that the coaches have complimented his quickness and installed him as the No. 2 back on the unofficial depth chart.

Damien Williams is challenging Charcandrick West for the No. 3 spot and has thrives as both a runner and receiver when given snaps with the first team. General manager Brett Veach describes Williams as a “situational starter talent.” West suffered a concussion earlier in the week, and if Williams continues performing well, West could be on the roster bubble.

WR: Mahomes and Tyreek Hill have established good chemistry early on, and Sammy Watkins is learning multiple positions so the Chiefs can move him around the formation with Hill and Travis Kelce. Demarcus Robinson is making noteworthy receptions and according to one observer, has made three of the best catches seen at camp. Blake Mack is listed on the wide receiver depth chart, but he’s more of a move tight end. He’s getting open during camp and making catches against hard contact. He’s also earning time with Patrick Mahomes. A big emphasis in camp has been back-shoulder throws to receivers, which was not a big part of Alex Smith’s game. Although not expected to challenge for playing time this year, Gehrig Dieter has clear chemistry with his camp roommate, Mahomes. There’s a close competition at the bottom of the depth chart between Jehu Chesson, Dieter, Mack, Jordan Smallwood, Byron Pringle, and Daniel Braverman. All of them have flashed early on.

TE: Reporters aren’t citing Travis Kelce as a daily standout, but when he has been targeted, he has made big plays during key situations. The tight ends dropped multiple passes during Sunday’s practice. Second-string tight end Demetrius Harris has been a frequent culprit. Jace Amaro is dropping easy passes, which has been his calling card with two previous teams. However, Amaro has also made enough big plays that he could be in contention for the third spot behind Harris.

Defense: Rookie linebacker Breeland Speaks is making the switch from defensive end and seeing occasional snaps with the first-team defense. His coverage skills are the biggest question mark but Speaks told the media that he has previous linebacker experience and that he

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was confident he could make the transition. Defensive lineman Chris Jones appears faster, according to Nick Jacobs, and Jones has already flashed moments of brilliance during his first two seasons.

Returners: The Chiefs have proven performers at punt returner (Tyreek Hill) and kickoff returner (DeAnthony Thomas), a luxury afforded to few other teams. Both players sit atop the depth chart heading into the preseason, and seemingly the only hope to dislodge one or the other would be speedy rookie Tremon Smith, who head coach Andy Reid described as having "great return ability."

Chiefs Depth Chart QB: Patrick Mahomes, Chad Henne, Matt McGloin, Chase Litton RB: Kareem Hunt, Spencer Ware, Damien Williams, Charcandrick West, Kerwynn Williams, George Atkinson III, Akeem Hunt (IR) FB: Anthony Sherman, Anthony Firkser, JD Moore WR: Sammy Watkins, Tyreek Hill (PR), Demarcus Robinson (KR/PR), Chris Conley, Jehu Chesson, De′Anthony Thomas, Daniel Braverman, Byron Pringle, Gehrig Dieter, Marcus Kemp, Elijah Marks TE: Travis Kelce, Demetrius Harris (susp), Orson Charles, Jace Amaro, Tim Wright, Dillon Gordon, Blake Mack, Alex Ellis LT: Eric Fisher LG: Brian Witzmann, Parker Ehinger C: Mitch Morse, Jordan Devey RG: Laurent Duvernay-Tardif RT: Mitchell Schwartz, Cameron Erving K: Harrison Butker NT: Xavier Williams, Derrick Nnadi, Justin Hamilton, Kahlil McKenzie, Stefan Charles, T.Y. McGill, Josh Augusta DE: Chris Jones, Allen Bailey, Tanoh Kpassagnon, Breeland Speaks, Jarvis Jenkins, Mike Purcell ILB: Reggie Ragland, Anthony Hitchens, Dorian O′Daniel, Terrance Smith OLB: Justin Houston (inj), Dee Ford (inj), Frank Zombo, Ukeme Eligwe, Tyrone Holmes CB: David Amerson, Kendall Fuller, Steven Nelson, Eric Murray, Tremon Smith, Keith Baxter, Makinton Dorleant, Sheldon Price, Arrion Springs, Will Redmond, Keith Reaser, Ashton Lampkin, D′Montre Wade S: Eric Berry (FS), Daniel Sorenson (SS), Robert Golden, Armani Watts, Leon McQuay, Devin Chappell, Jordan Sterns Coaches: Head Coach: Andy Reid, Off Coord: Eric Bieniemy, QB Coach: Mike Kafka, RB Coach: Deland McCullough, WR Coach: Greg Lewis, TE Coach: Tom Melvin, OL Coach: Andy Heck, SpecTm Coach: Dave Toub, Def Coord: Bob Sutton, DL Coach: Brett Reid, LB Coach: Mike Smith, LB Coach: Mark DeLeone, DB Coach: Emmitt Thomas, DB Coach: Al Harris

Los Angeles Chargers

QB: Phillip Rivers quietly finished the 2017 season second in both passing attempts (575) and yards (4,515), and remains one of the league’s best – yet somehow underappreciated – quarterbacks. Cardale Jones and Geno Smith are competing for the backup job vacated by Kellen Clemens. Head coach Anthony Lynn sees a neck-and-neck battle. “I’ve been watching that position all summer and all spring. Those guys are so neck-and-neck. The only things that are going to separate them are what they do in games, so once we get into the preseason, we’ll see who moves the ball down the field,” said Lynn. Notably, in the intra-squad scrimmage, Smith threw for 81 yards and a touchdown on 12 attempts with the second team, while Cardale Jones took four sacks and threw an interception.

RB: It’s been a quiet start to training camp for the running backs. Melvin Gordon is in the final year of his rookie deal and will enter free agency in 2019 barring a new contract, but he’s the clear lead back this season. Austin Ekeler remains the No. 2. Rookie seventh-rounder Justin Jackson is deadlocked with Russell Hansbrough for the No. 3 job. Coach Lynn has cautious praise for the rookie, “(Justin Jackson) has eyes on the side of his head. He has really good instincts, and there’s no wonder he has so many yards over his career because he can find the soft spot in a defense, and I like that about him. I think he can win his one-on-ones. We’ll see though.” Detrez Newsome is competing for a roster spot.

WR: The receiving corps is a strength. Keenan Allen is healthy deservedly sits atop the depth chart trying to follow up on last year’s 102-catch season. The rest of the depth chart is unsettled. Tyrell Williams, the incumbent starter, is healthy and has chemistry with Rivers. He caught a deep pass from Rivers in the intra-squad scrimmage. Mike Williams looks like a completely different player after struggling as a rookie. He’s made plays downfield throughout camp and added two touchdowns in the intra-squad scrimmage on Saturday. Travis Benjamin has had a quiet start to camp after injuring his shoulder while making a catch in practice. Dylan Cantrell missed Friday’s practice after limping off the field with a knee injury and was on the sidelines in crutches on Saturday. He’s out indefinitely, derailing an excellent start to camp. Cantrell’s injury creates opportunities for Artavis Scott and Geremy Davis.

TE: Already reeling from the loss of Hunter Henry earlier in the summer, rookie Austin Roberts suffered a torn ACL and will miss the season. For now, the rotation is Virgil Green, Sean Culkin, and Braedon Bowman. Culkin and Bowman are both undrafted free agents, who have appeared in a combined four games, with no receptions. Virgil Green, who spent the last seven seasons in Denver, has 71 career receptions. Green was a reliable receiver at Nevada before becoming primarily a blocker in Denver. The Chargers have moved to more three-

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receiver sets to emphasize their strength at receiver and limiting their weakness at tight end. If Antonio Gates doesn’t come out of retirement, look for the team to be active on the waiver wire.

K: Caleb Sturgis got $1 million guaranteed from the Chargers this offseason, but it has been former Buccaneer Roberto Aguayo turning heads in camp. Aguayo has been better than Sturgis so far, including a practice Thursday when Aguayo went 8-for-8 and Sturgis went 4-for-7, including misses from 41, 45, and 50 yards.

Defense: Lynn wants the defense to do a better job stopping the run after their intra-squad scrimmage. The defense has also been susceptible to the deep pass in practice, but defensive coordinator Gus Bradley has seen it as a “teachable moment.” There is an open competition at free safety between Rayshawn Jenkins, Jahleel Addae, Desmond King, and Jaylen Watkins. Cornerback Jason Verrett tore his Achilles early in camp and will miss the season. Cornerback Trevor Williams sprained his ankle and was wearing a walking boot after practice. He avoided a high-ankle sprain and should be able to return in the preseason. Strong safety Derwin James started camp on the NFI with a hamstring injury but was activated and has been practicing.

Returners: While there will be plenty of opportunities for the preseason to shake things up, last year’s three best returners -- Travis Benjamin, Desmond King, and Austin Ekeler -- all remain, and the depth chart is unchanged.

Chargers Depth Chart QB: Philip Rivers, Cardale Jones, Geno Smith, Nic Shimonek RB: Melvin Gordon, Austin Ekeler, Justin Jackson, Russ Hansbrough, Andre Williams (RFA) FB: Derek Watt WR: Keenan Allen, Tyrell Williams, Mike Williams, Travis Benjamin (PR), Dylan Cantrell, Geremy Davis (RFA), Isaiah Burse (RFA), Andre Patton, Artavis Scott, Nelson Spruce TE: Virgil Green, Sean McGrath (RFA), Braedon Bowman, Sean Culkin, Asante Cleveland (RFA), Hunter Henry (IR) LT: Russell Okung LG: Dan Feeney, Donavon Clark C: Mike Pouncey, Scott Quessenberry , Spencer Pulley RG: Forrest Lamp RT: Joe Barksdale, Michael Schofield, Sam Tevi K: Caleb Sturgis, Roberto Aguayo DT: Corey Liuget (susp), Brandon Mebane (NT), Damion Square, Steven Richardson DE: Joey Bosa, Melvin Ingram, Darius Philon, Isaac Rochell, Justin Jones, Uchenna Nwosu, Kaleb Eulls, Whitney Richardson MLB: Denzel Perryman, Nick Dzubnar (RFA) OLB: Jatavis Brown (W), Kyle Emanuel (S), Kyzir White (W/S), James Onwualu, Hayes Pullard CB: Casey Hayward, Trevor Williams (inj), Craig Mager, Tony Brown, Brandon Facyson, Channing Stribling, Jason Verrett (IR) S: Derwin James (FS), Jahleel Addae (SS), Desmond King

(FS/CB), Rayshawn Jenkins (FS), Adrian Phillips (FS), Jaylen Watkins, A.J. Hendy Coaches: Head Coach: Anthony Lynn, Off Coord: Ken Whisenhunt, QB Coach: Shane Steichen, RB Coach: Alfredo Roberts, WR Coach: Phil McGeoghan, TE Coach: Rip Scherer, OL Coach: Pat Meyer, SpecTm Coach: George Stewart, Def Coord: Gus Bradley, DL Coach: Giff Smith, LB Coach: Richard Smith, DB Coach: Ron Milus

Los Angeles Rams

QB: Jared Goff took a major step forward last year, completing 62% of his passes while throwing for 3,804 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. Goff is in a great situation with an innovative offensive coach in Sean McVay and an enviable group of playmakers led by Todd Gurley, Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods, and Cooper Kupp. Sean Mannion missed two days of padded practice with the birth of his daughter. Last year’s third-stringer, Brandon Allen filled in for Mannion during his absence. The backup quarterbacks have been underwhelming so far; don’t be surprised if the Rams scour the waiver wire for a veteran alternative.

RB: Todd Gurley entered camp with a new four-year, $60 million contract extension. He is locked in as the lead back, but the battle for the No. 2 position is wide open. Malcolm Brown and Justin Davis were listed as the Nos. 2 and 3 backs, respectively, on the initial team depth chart, but John Kelly is another name to monitor. Kelly has three-down ability and has won early praise for his pass blocking. Like the quarterback position, Gurley’s backup is a must watch during the preseason because of the strength of the offense.

WR: The wide receivers are a team strength. Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods return from last year’s number one scoring offense, and they’re joined by Brandin Cooks. The Rams traded for Cooks and then signed him to a five-year, $80 million contract before the start of camp. Even though Goff played well last season, he struggled with deep accuracy, so watching his relationship with Cooks is critical. McVay spoke highly of Cooks: “[I’m] impressed with how quickly he’s been able to learn the system, take ownership on the offense and then obviously just getting out here and making plays – doing what he’s done throughout his career.” Regarding usage, McVay said Cooks is, “catching slants. He’s doing things on some intermediate cuts, running away from people. So, he’s got the ability to separate. He can do a variety of things. It’s exciting to be able to work with players like him, where you’re not really limited in any way that you can utilize him.” Josh Reynolds had surgery in the offseason to repair a torn labrum but returned ready for training camp. He received praise from McVay for his catch radius, length, and body

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control, but has struggled with drops at times during camp. Pharoh Cooper, Michael Thomas, and Fred Brown along with undrafted free agents Steven Mitchel and KhaDarel Hodge are competing for no more than two roster spots.

TE: Gerald Everett had a shoulder injury in practice on Thursday and is expected to miss at least a week. McVay noted Everett has “responded well to the initial couple days of treatment” and indicated the injury wouldn’t require surgery. The Rams released their depth chart over the weekend, and Tyler Higbee was listed ahead of Everett. Higbee should have an opportunity to solidify his position atop the depth chart, especially after his strong first week of practice. While solidifying the starting job is essential, Higbee only caught 25 passes last season, so whether he can produce fantasy-relevant volume remains a question.

Defense: Aaron Donald has still not reported to camp as he seeks a contract extension. McVay noted that he was scheduled to meet over the weekend with the front office to discuss the Donald situation, but there “hasn’t been much progress in terms of dialogue since camp.” Safety Lamarcus Joyner is nursing a sore Achilles, while outside linebacker Matt Longacre is suffering from a bicep injury. Both are receiving treatment and expected to participate in joint practices with Baltimore next week.

Returners: In an unsurprising move, the team lists Pharoh Cooper, who led all players in combined return yardage and was named a first-team All-Pro returner by multiple publications, as the top kickoff and punt returner. The young receiver has little competition and is a good bet to challenge for the league lead once again.

Rams Depth Chart QB: Jared Goff, Sean Mannion, Brandon Allen, Luis Perez RB: Todd Gurley, John Kelly, Malcolm Brown, Justin Davis FB: Zach Laskey WR: Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, Josh Reynolds, Pharoh Cooper, Michael Thomas, Fred Brown TE: Gerald Everett, Tyler Higbee, Temarrick Hemingway, Johnny Mundt, Henry Krieger-Coble LT: Andrew Whitworth, Joe Noteboom, Cornelius Lucas LG: Rodger Saffold, Jamil Demby C: John Sullivan, Brian Allen RG: Jamon Brown, Austin Blythe RT: Rob Havenstein, Darrell Williams K: Greg Zuerlein, Sam Ficken NT: Ndamukong Suh, Dalton Keene DE: Aaron Donald, Michael Brockers, Ethan Westbrooks, Dominique Easley, John Franklin-Myers, Justin Lawler, Ryan Davis, Sebastian Joseph, Tanzel Smart, Morgan Fox (IR) ILB: Mark Barron (W), Cory Littleton, Ramik Wilson, Micah Kiser, Bryce Hager, Tegray Scales OLB: Samson Ebukam, Matt Longacre (RFA), Trevon Young, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo (inj), Carlos Thompson, Travin Howard, Ejuan Price, Taurean Nixon CB: Marcus Peters, Aqib Talib, Nickell Robey-Coleman, Dominique Hatfield, Sam Shields, Blake

Countess, Kevin Peterson, Taurean Nixon, Troy Hill S: Lamarcus Joyner, John Johnson, Marqui Christian, Isaiah Johnson, Charles Williams Coaches: Head Coach: Sean McVay, QB Coach: Zac Taylor, RB Coach: Skip Peete, WR Coach: Eric Yarber, TE Coach: Shane Waldron, OL Coach: Aaron Kromer, SpecTm Coach: John Fassel, Def Coord: Wade Philips, DL Coach: Bill Johnson, LB Coach: Joe Barry, DB Coach: Aubrey Pleasant, DB Coach: Ejiro Evero

Miami Dolphins

QB: Ryan Tannehill is healthy and moving around well on a knee that has kept him out of action for nearly two years. He has not been afraid to run and looks athletic when he has tucked the ball and taken off. His play has been inconsistent, however. Tannehill and the first-team offense struggled to move the ball against the second-team defense in the team’s annual open scrimmage. Tannehill played two series and completed just 3-of-6 passes for 22 yards. He was also sacked three times. Neither David Fales nor Brock Osweiler has shown anything to get excited about in the battle for the backup job.

RB: Frank Gore is listed as a co-starter alongside Kenyan Drake on the team’s initial depth chart. “He doesn’t look different than he did ten years ago,” said head coach Adam Gase of Gore. "He does a phenomenal job. He’s been preparing all spring. All I’ve heard from him since then is ‘Wait ‘til training camp.’ He is the last person I will ever doubt. Just seeing what he’s done throughout his career starting in college, he’s proven every person wrong we’ve ever known.” Gore’s fountain of youth should not dissuade excitement for Drake, who looks great, too. “I was like, ‘Man, I kinda see why they traded Jay Ajayi,’” Gore said. “He’s very talented. Jay Ajayi was a great back, too, but Kenyan is a very talented guy. He’s smart. He can do everything on the field. I think that me and him can really help this team be successful this year.”

WR: Danny Amendola has quickly established himself as Ryan Tannehill’s favorite target. Amendola has been working exclusively out of the slot and looks to be the starter there. He could vastly exceed expectations due to Tannehill’s propensity to look for his security blankets underneath. Devante Parker’s stock is trending down. He has struggled early in camp and is doing little to distinguish himself. Parker and Kenny Stills may have some unexpected competition on the outside from Albert Wilson. When Wilson signed a 3-year, $24 million contract this offseason, most expected him to step into the slot role vacated by Jarvis Landry. However, in camp, Wilson has played all three receiver positions and was listed as Kenny Stills’ backup on the team’s first official depth chart. After missing his entire rookie

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season with an injury, Isaiah Ford has been generating positive buzz. He is listed as the top backup in the slot, though he has missed a couple of recent practices with a shoulder injury.

TE: Mike Gesicki has been the offensive star of training camp. He has been dominant on jump balls in the red zone and has quickly become Tannehill’s go-to target in the end zone. “He just has unique timing, he knows how to box a guy out, he knows how to get in position,” Gase said of Gesicki’s redzone prowess. While Gesicki is still a major work in progress as a blocker, he probably won’t be asked to block too often. He has been seeing a lot of snaps flexed-out into the slot in two tight end sets and the coaching staff has been creative in moving him around to create favorable one-on-one matchups. While rookie tight ends are notoriously unreliable, Gesicki is working his way onto the radar as a late-round fantasy target. Beat writers have speculated that Gesicki could lead the Dolphins in receiving touchdowns.

K: The two rookies battling for the job had divergent results in the team scrimmage. Jason Sanders made both of his kicks, including a 47-yarder, while Greg Joseph missed a 52-yard kick to end up 1-for-2. Neither kicker has been exceptionally sharp in camp, but the team is preaching patience. The competition is close, and Joseph tightened it up after missing three kicks on the second day of camp with a 6-for-7 day including a make from 56 yards during last Thursday’s practice. Sanders has been better from long range than 30-to-40 yards, which is similar to his college track record.

Defense: Second-year defensive end Charles Harris has been one of Miami’s biggest standouts through the first two weeks. He has been wreaking havoc as a pass rusher, notching a pair of sacks in the scrimmage despite facing off against the starting offensive line. “He’s a tough matchup, especially on pass downs,” Gase said. “The thing that he’s improved on, especially from last year to this year and then through training camp, is his transition to a pass rush when it’s first and second down.” Xavien Howard has been dominant. He is quickly emerging as the team’s best defender and possibly developing into a true shutdown cornerback. First-rounder Minkah Fitzpatrick has wowed the coaching staff with his work ethic, spending long hours at the practice facility watching tape. He is lining up everywhere in the secondary, though most of his reps have come at safety and nickel cornerback covering the slot.

Returners: Jakeem Grant handled the majority of the returns last season, backed up by Jarvis Landry on punts and Senorise Perry on kickoffs. Landry has moved on to the Cleveland Browns, but the first depth chart of the season indicated that things otherwise haven't changed headed into 2018, with Grant expected to once again field most of their opportunities.

Dolphins Depth Chart QB: Ryan Tannehill (inj), David Fales, Brock Osweiler, Bryce Petty RB: Kenyan Drake, Frank Gore, Kalen Ballage, Senorise Perry, De′Veon Smith, Brandon Radcliff, Jeremy Langford WR: DeVante Parker, Kenny Stills, Danny Amendola, Albert Wilson, Jakeem Grant (KR/PR), Leonte Carroo, Isaiah Ford, Rashawn Scott, Francis Owusu, Drew Morgan, Malcolm Lewis TE: Mike Gesicki, MarQueis Gray, A.J. Derby, Durham Smythe, Thomas Duarte, Gavin Escobar LT: Laremy Tunsil LG: Anthony Steen, Jesse Davis C: Daniel Kilgore, Jake Brendel RG: Josh Sitton, Isaac Asiata RT: JaWuan James, Sam Young K: Jason Sanders, Greg Joseph DT: Davon Godchaux, Charles Harris (DE), Akeem Spence, Jordan Phillips, Vincent Taylor, Gabe Wright DE: Robert Quinn, Cameron Wake, Andre Branch, William Hayes, Cameron Malveaux, Jonathan Woodard, Quincy Redmon MLB: Raekwon McMillan (inj), Mike Hull, Quentin Poling OLB: Kiko Alonso (W), Stephone Anthony (W), Jerome Baker, Terence Garvin, Chase Allen (S), Jason Cabinda CB: Xavien Howard, Torry McTyver, Cordrea Tankersley, Bobby McCain, Tony Lippett (inj), Cornell Armstrong, Walt Aikens, Jordan Lucas, Taveze Calhoun S: Reshad Jones (SS), T.J. McDonald (SS), Minkah Fitzpatrick (FS/CB), Maurice Smith, Trae Elston Coaches: Head Coach: Adam Gase, Off Coord: Dowell Loggains, QB Coach: Bo Hardegree, RB Coach: Eric Studesville, WR Coach: Ben Johnson, WR Coach: Shawn Jefferson, TE Coach: Shane Day, OL Coach: Jeremiah Washburn, SpecTm Coach: Darren Rizzi, Def Coord: Matt Burke, DL Coach: Kris Kocurek, LB Coach: Frank Bush, DB Coach: Tony Oden

Minnesota Vikings

QB: Kirk Cousins is very optimistic about the offense’s potential, even though he struggled to move the ball against the first-team defense in 11-on-11s. He said the offense’s timing is a work in progress and “really always will be. Move the Ball, we call it, where we’re just playing unscripted football and reacting to the situation, and I thought all three groups moved the ball and did a nice job. I thought it was a sharp practice,” Cousins later added. “It’s going to go both ways from time to time, but I thought we made plays and got the ball up in the air, and ran the ball well and protected the football. I thought it was a lot of good stuff going on.”

RB: Dalvin Cook is the big story that warrants monitoring every week leading up to the season. Cook has been spotted running around without shoulder pads on the sideline while the rest of the team practices. He is ten months removed from ACL surgery on his left knee. Coach Mike Zimmer has already said that Cook will see game action at some point during the preseason. Cook

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has a hard time not getting excited about game day already, “I’m going to be hyped as s---, I know that. You’re going to be nervous, a little jitters, but once you get it out of the way, it’s time to go play some football. That’s going to be the thing with me.” Zimmer said Cook is “ready now” for preseason action after going through four days of padded practices. Cook is comfortable with contact, is cutting and he’s not showing signs of hesitation.”I didn’t see any signs that he was holding back or anything,” offensive coordinator John DeFilippo said. “He really looks like he is trusting that knee. He is explosive. I thought he’s done a great job in pass protection. I don’t see any hindrance out of him at all. We are continuing to monitor his reps and making sure that knee stays healthy and stays fresh throughout camp. It’s a long camp until we get to the regular season.”

WR: The team locked up Stefon Diggs with a five-year extension worth $81 million. Adam Thielen also signed a four-year, $22 million extension, ensuring the star tandem remain in Minnesota for years to come. Laquon Treadwell, Kendall Wright, Tavarres King, and Brandon Zylstra are vying for roles behind Thielen and Diggs. Treadwell is trying to regain the coaches’ confidence. DeFilippo is proud of Treadwell’s renewed focus, “I’m really proud of Treadwell. He has worked his butt off to really improve. I think from what I’ve heard he has matured. You see a young man having some success and not letting that success go to his head. We are going to continually challenge him every single day to stay mentally focused. He can do that. There is no doubt in my mind he can do that. I’m really happy where he is right now.” Brandon Zylstra is also having an excellent camp while being praised for catching everything thrown in his direction.

TE: DeFilippo spent last season as the quarterbacks coach in Philadelphia, where tight end Zach Ertz lined up all over the field and enjoyed a career year. Kyle Rudolph could be used similarly, lining up in the slot or outside.

K: The kicker competition could very well produce two starting kickers, with one playing for someone else this year. On Friday, Daniel Carlson missed from 46 yards, and Kai Forbath missed from 39 and 62 yards, with each making three attempts. Earlier in the week, both went 4-for-4. The competition is too close to call right now, and should linger well into the preseason.

Defense: Starting strongside linebacker Anthony Barr has been spotted joining the defensive line group for multiple pass-rush drills and could be utilized as an edge rusher in a defensive subpackage this season. In the past, the Vikings have used Barr and Eric Kendricks in plenty of double A-gap blitzes and bluffs, but they’ve never used Barr as a fifth lineman.

Returners: First-round pick Mike Hughes made a name for himself on special teams in college, returning two kickoffs and one punt for a touchdown in his final season. He immediately steps in and upgrades a kickoff return unit that has been rudderless since the loss of Cordarrelle Patterson. The big story to watch is whether Hughes can also claim punt return duties away from Marcus Sherels, Minnesota's all-time leader in punt return attempts, yards, and touchdowns.

Vikings Depth Chart QB: Kirk Cousins, Trevor Siemian, Kyle Sloter RB: Dalvin Cook, Latavius Murray, C.J. Ham, Kamryn Pettway, Roc Thomas, Mack Brown, Bishop Sankey (RFA), Mike Boone WR: Stefon Diggs, Adam Thielen, Laquon Treadwell, Kendall Wright, Brandon Zylstra, Stacy Coley (KR), Tavarres King, Korey Robertson, Jake Wieneke, Jeff Badet, Cayleb Jones (susp) TE: Kyle Rudolph, David Morgan, Tyler Conklin, Blake Bell, Cedrick Lang, Tyler Hoppes LT: Riley Reiff, Brian O′Neill, Rashod Hill LG: Nick Easton, Colby Gossett C: Pat Elflein RG: Tom Compton, Danny Isidora RT: Mike Remmers, Aviante Collins K: Kai Forbath, Daniel Carlson DT: Linval Joseph (NT), Sheldon Richardson, Jaleel Johnson, Jalyn Holmes, David Parry, Sharrif Floyd (res) DE: Everson Griffen, Danielle Hunter, Brian Robison, Ade Aruna, Stephen Weatherly, Tashawn Bower, Caushaud Lyons, Ifeadi Odenigbo, Hercules Mata′afa (IR) MLB: Eric Kendricks, Kentrell Brothers (susp), Devante Downs, Antwione Williams OLB: Anthony Barr (S), Ben Gedeon (W/M), Reshard Cliett, Eric Wilson, Garrett Dooley, Shaan Washington CB: Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, Mackensie Alexander, Mike Hughes, Terence Newman, Marcus Sherels (KR), Holton Hill, Horace Richardson S: Harrison Smith (FS), Andrew Sendejo, Anthony Harris (FS), Jayron Kearse, Jack Tocho Coaches: Head Coach: Mike Zimmer, Off Coord: John DeFilippo, QB Coach: Kevin Stefanski, RB Coach: Kennedy Pola, WR Coach: Darrell Hazell, TE Coach: Clancy Barone, OL Coach: Tony Sparano, SpecTm Coach: Mike Priefer, Def Coord: George Edwards, DL Coach: Andre Patterson, LB Coach: Adam Zimmer, DB Coach: Jerry Gray

New England Patriots

QB: Brian Hoyer’s job as Tom Brady’s backup appears safe. Seventh-round rookie Danny Etling has been exceptionally scattershot, particularly on short and intermediate throws, though he’s turned some heads with his cannon-like arm strength. The Patriots don’t seem likely to keep three quarterbacks on the roster – they haven’t in years – so Etling looks destined for the practice squad.

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RB: Confusion reigned last week when the football world learned of rookie Sony Michel’s knee injury – without much clarity or context at all. Michel was initially announced with a PUP-caliber knee injury, one likely to limit his availability all season, but it was later clarified as a fluid-draining procedure that should cost him roughly ten days of camp. It remains a blow to his early development, but a much more palatable one. And Michel has impressed thus far, showcasing first-round speed and making splash plays on the edges. In any event, Rex Burkhead now looks like the team’s most important back to open the season, and he was listed as the No. 1 on the team’s first depth chart. Injuries hampered Burkhead in his debut season as a Patriot, but he was effective as both a receiver and a runner while healthy. Still, given the Patriots’ history, he’ll almost certainly share early-down work with a power runner like Mike Gillislee or Jeremy Hill. One of those two will now almost certainly land on the final roster, and Hill looks to have a definitive edge. He’s worked in some with the first-team offense, while Gillislee has been relegated almost entirely to third-team work with Etling.

WR: This unit has been all over the map, of course, and didn’t iron out a bit with the replacement of Jordan Matthews with Eric Decker. Decker is healthy and was integrated heavily into his first practice, but came aboard with such a small signing bonus ($75,000) that he’s no lock to make the Week 1 roster. Still, he reportedly looked crisp and ready in his debut. In any event, Decker will jockey with Chris Hogan, Kenny Britt, and Phillip Dorsett in preparation for Julian Edelman’s suspension. Britt, who just came off the PUP list last week, has put in virtually no on-field work and may be slipping down this depth chart. Dorsett closed his 2017 on a rough note but has turned heads with a few contested catches downfield. Edelman, for his part, has complained about his conditioning and performance through camp’s opening. Malcolm Mitchell was released on Monday after attempts to trade the oft-injured receiver failed.

TE: Rob Gronkowski is at camp and participating, with the hurdles from the early offseason clearing up rapidly. Gronkowski reported to the team on time, of course, eschewing any real retirement chatter. And he’s claimed that he has no intention to hold out in his search for a new contract. Gronkowski is always a risky proposition but isn’t carrying the question marks into camp that he often does. Behind him, Jacob Hollister continues to impress as he seeks to make the roster. He’s getting downfield well and has drawn plenty of camp praise, from Belichick and Gronkowski specifically. Don’t rule out Hollister overtaking Dwayne Allen as the No. 2.

Defense: Stephon Gilmore looks more confident – and disruptive – in his second Patriots camp than he did last season. Gilmore’s play yo-yoed quite a bit throughout August and even September of last year, but he’s

looked like a true shutdown corner thus far, breaking up passes with regularity. Gilmore’s resurgence would go a long way toward fixing the leaky secondary that hurt the Patriots dearly last season. Another big step would be a contribution from new signee Danny Shelton, who’s seeing plenty of first-team work and looks destined for heavy usage on running downs. At 335 pounds, Shelton has dominated his share of one-on-one drills early on and should make for a robust rotational piece on the inside.

Returners: The only active NFL players who rank in the Top 10 all-time in career punt return or kickoff return average are Julian Edelman and Cordarrelle Patterson, both of whom play for the Patriots, which means New England's only real concern on special teams is filling the void left by Edelman's four-game suspension to start the year. The early competition has been wide open; even running back Rex Burkhead has gotten reps.

Patriots Depth Chart QB: Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer, Danny Etling RB: Rex Burkhead, Sony Michel (inj), James White (3RB), Jeremy Hill, Mike Gillislee, Brandon Bolden, Ralph Webb FB: James Develin, Henry Poggi WR: Julian Edelman (susp), Chris Hogan, Cordarrelle Patterson (KR), Eric Decker, Kenny Britt, Phillip Dorsett, Matt Slater, Braxton Berrios (PR), Riley McCarron, Devin Lucien, Paul Turner, Jordan Matthews (IR) TE: Rob Gronkowski, Dwayne Allen, Jacob Hollister, Will Tye, Ryan Izzo, Trent Harris LT: Trent Brown, LaAdrian Waddle, Cole Croston LG: Joe Thuney, Isaiah Wynn C: David Andrews, Luke Bowanko, James Ferentz RG: Shaq Mason, Ted Karras RT: Marcus Cannon, Matt Tobin, Ulrick John K: Stephen Gostkowski DT: Malcom Brown, Danny Shelton, Lawrence Guy, Vincent Valentine, Adam Butler, John Atkins DE: Trey Flowers, Deatrich Wise, Adrian Clayborn, Derek Rivers (inj), Eric Lee, Geneo Grissom, Keionta Davis, Caleb Kidder MLB: Dont′a Hightower (inj), Nicholas Grigsby, Christian Sam, Ja′Whaun Bentley OLB: Kyle Van Noy (W), Elandon Roberts, Marquis Flowers, Harvey Langi (DE) CB: Stephon Gilmore, Eric Rowe, Jason McCourty, Duke Dawson, Cyrus Jones (PR) (inj), Jonathan Jones, J.C. Jackson, Keion Crossen, Jomal Wiltz, Ryan Lewis S: Devin McCourty (FS/CB), Patrick Chung (SS), Duron Harmon (SS), Jordan Richards (SS), Nate Ebner, Brandon King, Damarius Travis Coaches: Head Coach: Bill Belichick, Off Coord: Josh McDaniels, RB Coach: Ivan Fears, WR Coach: Chad Oshea, TE Coach: Nick Caley, OL Coach: Dante Scarnecchia, SpecTm Coach: Joe Judge, DL Coach: Brendan Daly, LB Coach: Brian Flores, DB Coach: Josh Boyer, DB Coach: Steve Belichick

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New Orleans Saints

QB: Drew Brees is looking great and is, of course, locked in under center for the Saints. However, the battle to back him up rages on, and 27-year-old Taysom Hill is turning heads. Hill quarterbacked at BYU following an extended Mormon mission, costing him a 2017 draft slot. Still, he impressed last year in Green Bay’s camp completing 14-of-20 passes and throwing two touchdowns. He’s been red-hot thus far as a Saint. Hill has both thrown with poise and strength and showcased his read-option and running skills, for which Sean Payton could find use during the preseason as Hill looks to cement a roster spot. Former Texan Tom Savage will likely nail down the No. 2 job, but Hill is making the choice difficult for Payton and company.

RB: With Mark Ingram set to miss the first quarter of the season, there’s a full slate of names competing for a potentially substantial four-game role. Journeyman Terrance West should absorb most of Ingram’s rushing load over that span and may have had a breakthrough last Friday. He’s reportedly making plays on the interior, which is Ingram’s job under normal circumstances, and he remains the only real candidate to fill in. Jonathan Williams is also in the mix, but he’s clearly behind West and isn’t a lock to make the roster. There’s been praise for sixth-round rookie Boston Scott, too, with Payton comparing him openly with ex-Saint Darren Sproles. “He’s further along in the passing game,” Payton said last Friday. “But I think he’s been improving. He’s going to be in that mix as a returner, and we’ll see what he can do.” Scott could be battling veteran Shane Vereen, signed in mid-July, for an early-season role on passing downs, giving Alvin Kamara a breather. Scott’s case was helped a bit by Vereen sitting out virtually the entire week with an undisclosed injury.

WR: Budding superstar Michael Thomas has drawn raves throughout the opening of camp. Amos Morale III of the Times-Picayune has exhaustively covered Thomas’ stellar opening to camp, with the third-year stud dominating with physicality and showcasing his usual connection with Brees. Behind Thomas, the team just sent three of its fringe wideouts to injured reserve, though the depth chart remains fairly muddied. Cameron Meredith is rehabbing from last year’s ACL tear and missing quite a few practices, but staying in tune with Brees in general. Third-round rookie Tre’Quan Smith has dazzled with his speed and acrobatics, working his way in for reps with the first team while Meredith recovers. Smith even burned phenom cornerback Marshon Lattimore to haul in a deep ball from Brees on the first day of camp. He looks locked in as Meredith’s top competitor for No. 3 reps behind Thomas and Ted Ginn, particularly with Brandon Coleman’s release. Tommylee Lewis continues to impress, though new signee Brandon Tate’s kick-return experience could push the diminutive Lewis off the roster. The team also

just added troubled veteran Michael Floyd to the camp mix, but neither he nor Tate seems likely to crack the team’s top four anytime soon.

TE: Presumptive starter Ben Watson walked away from practice last Monday with an undisclosed injury and hasn’t returned. His absence has opened up reps for the team’s blocking specialists, Josh Hill and Michael Hoomanawanui. Hill filled in extensively last year for the concussion-addled Coby Fleener; he’s experienced in the offense and athletic enough to make tough redzone catches. The Saints have also been able to get a look at Dan Arnold, an undrafted wide receiver from 2017 who’s being shifted into a slot (move) tight end role. The 6-foot-6 Arnold has been beating first- and second-team defenders down the field – not a huge surprise, considering he averaged 18.6 yards per catch as a senior at Wisconsin-Platteville.

Defense: Dennis Allen’s unit has focused heavily on aggressiveness thus far in camp, and the results have been impressive. Cornerback Ken Crawley has been especially disruptive – in last Friday’s session, he went one-on-one with Michael Thomas for five consecutive drills, denying completions on three of them and being flagged for penalties on the other two. The penalties were at least a strong indication Crawley intends to play the assertive, ball-hawking role in contrast to technical shutdown style Marshon Lattimore utilizes. Linebackers A.J. Klein and Craig Robertson look rejuvenated, too, chasing down runs and breaking up passes over the middle. The talk of defensive camp, however, has been last year’s second-round pick, free safety Marcus Williams. He’s anticipating throws and pouncing on them, leading Brees to compare him to the legendary Ed Reed.

Returners: Head coach Sean Payton likened his special teams to reality television, "Our return game is kind of like The Bachelor right now. We have about 12 contestants. All with roses. We don't know who our returner is going to be. And if she doesn’t like any of them, we will bring in more." Putting the team's money where his mouth is, Payton recently signed return specialist Brandon Tate to see if he can make an impact.

Saints Depth Chart QB: Drew Brees, Tom Savage, Taysom Hill, J.T. Barrett RB: Alvin Kamara (3RB), Mark Ingram (susp), Shane Vereen, Jonathan Williams, Boston Scott, Terrance West, Trey Edmunds FB: Zach Line WR: Michael Thomas, Ted Ginn (KR/PR), Cameron Meredith, Tre′Quan Smith, Tommylee Lewis (PR), Michael Floyd, Brandon Tate, Austin Carr, Travin Dural, Dan Arnold, Keith Kirkwood TE: Ben Watson, Josh Hill, Michael Hoomanawanui, Deon Yelder, Garrett Griffin LT: Terron Armstead, Bryce Harris LG: Andrus Peat

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C: Max Unger, Will Clapp RG: Larry Warford, Jermon Bushrod, Andrew Tiller RT: Ryan Ramczyk, Rick Leonard, John Theus K: Wil Lutz DT: Sheldon Rankins, Tyeler Davison, David Onyemata, Mitchell Loewen, David Parry (RFA), Jay Bromley, Taylor Stallworth, Woodrow Hamilton, Devaroe Lawrence DE: Cameron Jordan, Trey Hendrickson, Marcus Davenport, Hau′oli Kikaha, Alex Okafor, Al-Quadin Muhammad (inj), George Johnson, Alex Jenkins MLB: Demario Davis, Manti Te′o, Adam Bighill OLB: A.J. Klein (S), Alex Anzalone (W), Craig Robertson (W/S), Nathan Stupar CB: Marshon Lattimore, Ken Crawley, Patrick Robinson, PJ Williams, Kamrin Moore, Justin Hardee, De′Vante Harris, Arthur Maulet, Bradley Sylve S: Vonn Bell, Marcus Williams, Kurt Coleman, Chris Banjo, Natrell Jamerson, Rickey Jefferson Coaches: Head Coach: Sean Payton, QB Coach: Joe Lombardi, RB Coach: Joel Thomas, WR Coach: Curtis Johnson, TE Coach: Dan Campbell, OL Coach: Dan Roushar, SpecTm Coach: Bradford Banta, Def Coord: Dennis Allen, DL Coach: Ryan Nielsen, LB Coach: Mike Nolan, DB Coach: Aaron Glenn

New York Giants

QB: Eli Manning has been described as “sharp” and “focused” by his coaches in recent days, which is a welcome development after last year’s debacle. It hasn’t all been perfect, particularly in the 2-minute drill, but overall Manning is in fantastic shape and has been good far more often than bad. David Webb looks like a different player this summer. He’s gotten stronger and has shown a preternatural command of Pat Shurmur’s offense after floundering to understand Ben McAdoo’s last season.

RB: Saquon Barkley is going to be a focal point offensively, and has impressed as a runner, receiver, and most importantly, a pass protector. Position coach Craig Johnson notes, “He understands protections. “When we went through the process before he got drafted here, we asked a lot about that, and I think they really did a good job (at Penn State) with teaching him. Like all players, when they come to the NFL, you have to have more protections, but the bottom line is that he understands the general concepts and then he has to understand what we call versus what he learned in college.” The drama revolves around Jonathan Stewart and Wayne Gallman for the No. 2 job. The coaches continue praising Stewart for his leadership more than his practice results, while Gallman has taken Stewart and Barkley’s arrivals as an impetus to improve in all facets.

WR: The front office and Odell Beckham’s agents continue to work on a contract extension. To Beckham’s credit, he didn’t hold out and hasn’t let the contract situation affect his focus during camp. It’s possible last year’s season-ending injury gave Beckham a more mature perspective. “Like I said, after I see my ankle snap and it feels like your world turns upside down, life’s just different. I’m just happy. Honestly, for real, I’m just happy to be back out there running around. And like I said before, I don’t believe in any of that stuff. I feel like they’ll get it done when they get it done, let my agent and them figure it out. I just come out here, try and get all the plays down, focus on being the best that I can be. So, it’ll happen when it happens.” Sterling Shepard looks excellent, showing no signs of the ankle injury that turned him into a plodding possession receiver in 2017. Giants.com’s John Schmeelk called him training camp’s offensive star. Cody Latimer is attempting to gel with Eli Manning in a way he never did with brother Peyton in Denver. So far, so good as Latimer has taken hold of the No. 3 receiver role. Receivers coach Tyke Tolbert, who coached Latimer in Denver, believes Latimer is a changed man. "He's matured now. He's engaged, has a son, he's a dedicated guy," Tolbert said. "He takes the most meticulous notes of anybody I've ever been around. He studies football away from the building. He's really become a true pro. He has really good speed. He's probably one of the best 50/50 ball catchers I've ever been around. When the ball's in the air, he likes to go get it. We caught Cody at the right time to bring him here."

TE: Evan Engram is on notice. The talent is undisputed, but the hands are a concern. After a jaw-dropping 11 dropped passes last year, the new coaching staff has made it clear Engram has to improve his catch rate if he wants to be a regular part of the passing attack. So far, he’s failed to improve. Shurmur has Engram doing extra hands work before and after position drills, but you can expect the team to test Engram in a big spot early in the preseason to gain (or lose) confidence in the athletic, second-year playmaker.

K: Aldrick Rosas is getting a fresh start under new head coach Pat Shurmur. Shurmur commented on Rosas’ strong leg and said his mechanics improved over the spring. He was excellent in camp last year, won the job, but faltered during the season, so we can’t put too much into his performance this summer. It was surprising that the Giants didn’t sign a more established veteran in the offseason, but it’s possible they add someone in the next few weeks.

Defense: Defensive leader Damon Harrison loves what he’s seen in the early going from rookie defensive tackle B.J. Hill. “I don’t know if you guys have been watching, but he’s probably the most athletic defensive lineman that we have, and that says a lot. He can do a little bit of everything, which is encouraging to see, so

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I’m excited to get a chance to go out there preseason game one and beyond it and actually see what he can do during game day,” said Harrison. Olivier Vernon has been dominant but hasn’t been able to unless his full fury given a lack of contact on most days. Rookie linebacker Lorenzo Carter is aggressive and looks the part, but he needs to be careful not to overpursue. Veteran Connor Barwin was a late addition to the roster, and he appears ready to make an impact as a situational pass rusher. New defensive coordinator James Bettcher is still figuring out the ideal configuration of the secondary, in particularly the nickel back role. Third-year cornerback Donte Deayon was the leader through the first week, but a hamstring injury has opened the door for B.W. Webb. Webb has made big plays (interceptions and pass breakups) since taking over in the slot, and it promises to be a fierce preseason battle between Deayon and Webb in the coming weeks.

Returners: Receiver Kalif Raymond ended 2017 as the top return specialist, but his play was shaky and his roster spot potentially at risk. He's proven a much more reliable player on offense through early training camps, which bolsters his chances of making the team's final 53-man roster and retaining return duties.

Giants Depth Chart QB: Eli Manning, Davis Webb, Kyle Lauletta RB: Saquon Barkley, Wayne Gallman, Jonathan Stewart, Jalen Simmons, Paul Perkins (IR) FB: Shane Smith WR: Odell Beckham Jr., Sterling Shepard (KR), Roger Lewis, Cody Latimer, Russell Shepard, Hunter Sharp, Travis Rudolph, Amba Etta-Tawo, Marquis Bundy, Davon Grayson, Kalif Raymond, Keeon Johnson TE: Evan Engram, Rhett Ellison, Jerell Adams, Ryan O′Malley LT: Nate Solder, Chad Wheeler LG: Will Hernandez, Patrick Omameh C: Brett Jones, Jon Halapio RG: John Jerry, John Greco RT: Ereck Flowers, Adam Bisnowaty K: Aldrick Rosas, Marshall Koehn NT: Damon Harrison, Robert Thomas, Josh Banks DE: Dalvin Tomlinson, B.J. Hill, Romeo Okwara, Josh Mauro (susp), RJ McIntosh, Jordan Williams ILB: Alec Ogletree, B.J. Goodson, Calvin Munson, Ray-Ray Armstrong, Mark Herzlich, J.T. Thomas, Thurston Armbrister, Curtis Grant, Derrick Matthews OLB: Olivier Vernon, Kareem Martin, Lorenzo Carter, Connor Barwin, Avery Moss, Kerry Wynn CB: Janoris Jenkins (inj), Eli Apple, William Gay, Michael Thomas, Donte Deayon, Leonard Johnson, B.W. Webb, Jeremiah McKinnon, Brandon Dixon, Grant Haley, Sam Beal (IR) S: Landon Collins, Darian Thompson, Andrew Adams, Mykkele Thompson, Tim Scott Coaches: Head Coach: Pat Shurmur, Off Coord: Mike Shula, RB Coach: Craig Johnson, WR Coach: Tyke Tolbert, TE Coach: Lunda Wells, OL Coach: Hal Hunter, SpecTm Coach: Thomas McGaughey, Def Coord: James Bettcher, DL Coach: Gary Emanuel, LB Coach: Bill McGovern, DB Coach: Lou Anarumo

New York Jets

QB: Rookie Sam Darnold was late to camp due to issues with his contract, but has impressed the coaching staff and given Jets fans hope since his arrival. He’s improved each day, and his Saturday practice (his third so far) was his best according to NJ.com’s Darryl Slater. Darnold has seen 71 reps overall, 20 behind the starting line, completing 18-of-33 passes, with four touchdowns and two interceptions. The Daily News’ Manish Mehta tweeted out that the Jets “are privately so impressed with Sam Darnold's smart pre-snap recognition, adjustments, and post-snap decisions.” He’s far from perfect, but so far the team is happy with his progress. While Darnold was out the first few days of camp, Josh McCown and Teddy Bridgewater took all the snaps to mixed results. They’ve improved over the last few days, and both veterans were effective during Saturday’s Green & White scrimmage. Bridgewater was 10-of-12 for 53 yards but faced intense pressure culminating in four sacks. McCown was 9-of-9 for 69 yards, a touchdown, and no sacks or interceptions. Darnold was 11-of-16 for 89 yards, three sacks, and no touchdowns or interceptions. He also had the least work with the starting offensive line. While all three appear to be in contention for the starting job, the hope is Darnold shows enough in the next few weeks to take the helm.

RB: Things didn’t start off well for the Jets backfield, as Elijah McGuire broke his foot and required surgery. It will sideline him for around six weeks. Isaiah Crowell has made McGuire’s loss easier to swallow, and is slowly becoming more than just a runner. Connor Hughes of The Athletic (subscription required) is impressed with Crowell, particularly his receiving skills. “Something I didn’t know about Crowell: He can catch. Seriously. He’s catching everything thrown his way.” Meanwhile, Bilal Powell is having a quiet camp, and while it could just be that the Jets already know what he brings to the table, the Daily News’ Brian Costello feels Powell’s touches are going to drop quite a bit. “Powell benefited in prior years from Ivory and Forte being injury prone,” Costello wrote last month. “Crowell does not miss time. That is one of the things that appealed to the Jets about him.” ESPN’s Rich Cimini echoed that last week when he wrote that Crowell was faster than he expected and “a better receiver than [head coach Todd] Bowles expected.” Sixth-round rookie Trenton Cannon is also opening eyes. Laura Albanese of Newsday was “wowed” by Cannon during Saturday’s scrimmage. Jermaine Kearse has been equally impressed with the rookie. “Every time he hits the edge, it’s like, he hits the corner so fast. He’s explosive, and he makes plays out there.” Thomas Rawls was brought in for depth but has struggled, and has been sidelined with “soreness” since

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Thursday. He’s also had a few fumbles; his roster spot is in jeopardy.

WR: The Jets were hoping Quincy Enunwa would bounce back from his neck injury and step into the slot, but he’s now out for up for up to two weeks with a thumb injury. The expectation is that he’ll see preseason action, and hopefully step into three-receiver sets. The battle for the first two spots is what’s worth watching. Robby Anderson is back in the club’s good graces and is the team’s lead receiver. The Jets traded for Jermaine Kearse last season, and in spite of a quiet start to camp, his roster spot is considered safe. The Jets also signed Terrelle Pryor, who sat out the first few practices with a red no-contact jersey and is still working his way back from arthroscopic surgery on his ankle. The depth chart beyond Anderson remains in flux, and probably will stay that way for a few more weeks.

TE: The Jets haven’t had much in the way of quality tight end play for the last few years, and the competition is wide open. Andy Vasquez of NorthJersey.com believes that rookie Chris Herndon and Jordan Leggett are the favorites. Herndon is raw but also flashes athletic ability. Leggett is a better blocker but had maddening injury issues. Connor Hughes of The Athletic (subscription required) reports that offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates is “getting creative” and moving the tight ends all over the field, including splitting one wide, with another in-line, as well as two out wide. If someone steps up, there could be some value.

Defense: As always before the pads come on and people hit, it’s hard to get a read on the defense. The team is giving middle linebacker Darren Lee more responsibility, and he and Avery Williamson will be the heart of the linebacker corps. Lee, in particular, has been tasked with calling out plays and identifying adjustments. The Jets desperately need a pass rush, and Leonard Williams is expected to bounce back from a shaky 2017. Brian Costello called Williams “a wrecking ball” in early practices, and noted, “he is constantly beating his man and blowing up plays in the backfield.” Henry Anderson and Nathan Shepherd have flashed in practice and seem to be helping fill the void left by Mo Wilkerson’s departure. Marcus Maye and Jamal Adams have done well at safety, while free agent cornerback Trumaine Johnson is adjusting well. Second-year cornerback Derrick Jones is the “early breakout star” of camp. He’s picked off two passes and tipped another.

Returners: Sixth-round rookie Trenton Cannon had a rough first day of training camp but has been steadily flashing since. He’s showing the kind of speed that special teams coaches dream about. His path to the top of the depth chart will be difficult given the presence of steady veteran Andre Roberts, who has topped 700 kickoff return yards and 200 punt return yards for three different teams in his last three healthy seasons.

Jets Depth Chart QB: Josh McCown, Teddy Bridgewater, Sam Darnold RB: Isaiah Crowell (SD), Bilal Powell (3RB), Elijah McGuire (3RB/PR) (inj), Thomas Rawls, Trenton Cannon, Akeem Judd FB: Dimitri Flowers WR: Robby Anderson, Jermaine Kearse, Quincy Enunwa, Terrelle Pryor, Chad Hansen, ArDarius Stewart, Charone Peake, Andre Roberts (KR/PR), Lucky Whitehead (KR/PR), Jalin Marshall, Charles Johnson, Chris King, Terrell Sinkfield TE: Jordan Leggett, Chris Herndon, Clive Walford, Eric Tomlinson, Neal Sterling, Bucky Hodges LT: Kelvin Beachum, Ben Ijalana LG: James Carpenter C: Spencer Long, Travis Swanson, Jonotthan Harrison RG: Brian Winters, Dakota Dozier RT: Brandon Shell, Brent Qvale K: Cairo Santos, Nick Rose, Cannon Rooker NT: Steve McLendon, Nathan Shepherd, Deon Simon DE: Leonard Williams, Henry Anderson, Mike Pennel, Xavier Cooper, Folorunso Fatukasi, Claude Pelon, Lawrence Thomas, Courtney Upshaw, Kendall Reyes MLB: Darron Lee, Avery Williamson, Kevin Minter, Neville Hewitt, Kevin Pierre-Louis, Micah Awe OLB: Jordan Jenkins, David Bass, Lorenzo Mauldin, Josh Martin, Obam Gwachum, Freddie Bishop, Brandon Copeland, Dylan Donahue CB: Trumaine Johnson, Morris Claiborne, Buster Skrine, Juston Burris, Darryl Roberts, Parry Nickerson, Rashard Robinson, Derrick Jones, Xavier Coleman, Jeremy Clark, Bryson Keeton, Kacy Rodgers S: Jamal Adams (SS), Marcus Maye, Rontez Miles (inj), Terrence Brooks, J.J. Wilcox, Brandon Bryant, Doug Middleton Coaches: Head Coach: Todd Bowles, Off Coord: Jeremy Bates, RB Coach: Stump Mitchell, WR Coach: Karl Dorrell, TE Coach: Jim Johnson, OL Coach: Rick Dennison, SpecTm Coach: Brant Boyer, Def Coord: Kacy Rodgers, DL Coach: Robert Nunn, LB Coach: Kevin Greene, LB Coach: Mike Caldwell, DB Coach: Dennard Wilson

Oakland Raiders

QB: Derek Carr has clicked with Jon Gruden and seems invigorated by having a demanding, offensive-minded head coach. “Derek looks like a completely different person in my eyes,” veteran tight end Jared Cook said. “Just from the way he’s attacking the game. From the way he’s attacking the challenges that Gruden has been giving to him. Every time that Gruden asks him a question, he gets it right, no hesitation. Every time Gruden asks him to get up in front of a meeting room and call out a play, run a play, get to the right check, get to the right audible, he does it every time.”

RB: Marshawn Lynch showed up to camp in better shape than last season. He has slimmed down to 232 pounds, which is the lightest he's been in many years. Lynch has made a believer of his new coach. “I love him. I love being around him,” Gruden said. “If you get to

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know him, you understand what I’m talking about. He’s a little misunderstood to some people but he’s a football player. A lot of people consider that cliché but he’s all football. He loves it. He competes.” Gruden also immediately mentioned Lynch as a player that stood out to him once pads came on. Doug Martin is also off to a solid start in camp and should be in the rotation at running back.

WR: Amari Cooper is all the way up to 225 pounds, which is 14 pounds heavier than when he entered the league three seasons ago. He gained the weight to better combat press coverage, though it is worth wondering if the added weight will negatively impact the speed and quickness. So far, he has impressed his head coach. “We’re going to move him all over the place,” said Gruden. “He is smart, he’s elusive, he can run after the catch. We’ve got to get more ways to get him the football.” Cooper has also drawn praise from new teammate Jordy Nelson. “From what I’ve seen, he has the ability,” Nelson said. “His quickness and athleticism, the way he understands the game, hands, everything. He has it all.” Nelson has been a standout in early practices. He has shown enough speed to make some plays down the field and has earned praise for his quickness and route-running acumen. Nelson appears to be well ahead of Martavis Bryant in the pecking order. Bryant is penciled in as the third receiver, but his play has been up and down. “He’s been good, just as we’d expected when we traded for him,” offensive coordinator Greg Olson noted. “Explosive player.” Gruden had a different take on Bryant’s performance through the first two weeks of camp though. "He’s got to get out here and play better,” Gruden said. “He’s in a competitive situation. And right now a lot of the other receivers have had a nice camp. He’s just got to learn the offense. He’s got to stay out here. He’s had some illnesses. He’s got to get on the field. He’s got to master the offense and become more versatile. And that’s a key to making this team better.” Rookie Marcell Ateman has been a standout at camp, consistently winning on contested catch opportunities. “I like Ateman,” Gruden said. “Ateman makes plays every day. What was most impressive about that play is Carr saw him. It was man-to-man, we had a different play called. He saw Marcell in press coverage, he changed the play and he went to him. He knew he had press coverage. He liked the matchup. That’s rare where a veteran quarterback calls a rookie’s number with the media here. The kid makes the play. Three days in a row he’s gotten behind people and adjusted on the back shoulder.”

TE: Jared Cook was brought back for a second season and has formed a rapport with Carr.

K: In a bit of a surprise, the Raiders released incumbent Giorgio Tavecchio. Rookie free agent Eddy Pineiro is the longest-tenured kicker on the roster now, but the team also brought in veteran Mike Nugent to provide

competition. Pineiro went 17-for-18 in his final year at Florida, has a good conversion rate on touchbacks, and didn’t miss a 50+ yard field goal during his collegiate career.

Defense: Khalil Mack’s holdout doesn’t look like it is going to end soon and the situation may get ugly. The Raiders reportedly haven’t even made him a firm offer. Reports indicate the Mack might even be on the trade block. A trio of rookie defensive linemen — second-rounder P.J. Hall, third-rounder Arden Key, and fifth-rounder Maurice Hurst — are off to positive starts and should instantly earn roles in the rotation. “I told those guys they can be tied together for a long time,” defensive line coach Mike Trgovac said. “What better way to be introduced to Raider Nation than as the young players on the defense. They’re the future and they gotta act like it.” 2017 first-round cornerback Gareon Conley is again dealing with injuries, this time a hip strain suffered in the first practice that has kept him out of camp for a couple of weeks. Conley may suffer from Vitamin D deficiency, which has led to a slower healing process. Tahir Whitehead and Bruce Irvin have been standouts thus far.

Returners: Last year, rookie Ryan Switzer was the buzz of the Dallas Cowboys' training camp. This offseason, the Raiders hired away Dallas' special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia and traded for Switzer to shore up their own return game. Bisaccia has made sure the buzz hasn't died down, saying "Some of those guys that can score, they have a sixth sense to them. Usually, if they can make the first one miss and they understand the return, they can get themselves back and help out the block... [Switzer] just has a sixth sense for it. He’s done it a long time and he’s scored a lot of touchdowns."

Raiders Depth Chart QB: Derek Carr, Connor Cook, E.J. Manuel RB: Marshawn Lynch (SD), Doug Martin, Jalen Richard (3RB/PR), Deandre Washington (3RB), Chris Warren III FB: Keith Smith WR: Amari Cooper, Jordy Nelson, Martavis Bryant, Seth Roberts, Marcell Ateman, Ryan Switzer (KR/PR), Johnny Holton, Dwayne Harris (PR), Isaac Whitney, Keon Hatcher, Saeed Blacknall TE: Jared Cook, Lee Smith, Derek Carrier, Marcus Baugh, Pharaoh Brown, Paul Butler LT: Donald Penn, David Sharpe LG: Kelechi Osemele, Jon Feliciano C: Rodney Hudson RG: Gabe Jackson, Vadal Alexander RT: Kolton Miller, Breno Giacomini, Brandon Parker, Jylan Ware K: Eddy Piniero, Mike Nugent DT: Justin Ellis, Maurice Hurst, Eddie Vanderdoes (DE), P.J. Hall, Treyvon Hester (NT), Frostee Rucker (DE), Ahtyba Rubin, Shakir Soto DE: Kahlil Mack, Mario Edwards Jr., Tank Carradine, Fadol Brown MLB: Derrick Johnson, Marquel Lee, Azeem Victor OLB: Bruce Irvin (S/DE), Tahir Whitehead (W), James Cowser

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(S/DE), Emmanuel Lamur, Kyle Wilber, Arden Key, Nicholas Morrow, Shalique Calhoun, Brady Sheldon, Jason Cabinda CB: Gareon Conley (inj), Rashaan Melvin, Dexter McDonald, Shareece Wright, Leon Hall, Nick Nelson, Antonio Hamilton, Shaquille Richardson, Tevin Mitchel, Darius Hillary S: Reggie Nelson (FS), Karl Joseph (SS), Obi Melifonwu (inj), Marcus Gilchrist, Shalom Luani, Erik Harris Coaches: Head Coach: Jon Gruden, Off Coord: Greg Olson, QB Coach: Brian Callahan, RB Coach: Jemal Singleton, WR Coach: Edgar Bennett, TE Coach: Frank Smith, OL Coach: Tom Cable, Def Coord: Paul Guenther, DL Coach: Mike Trgovac, LB Coach: David Lippincott, DB Coach: Derrick Ansley

Philadelphia Eagles

“Don’t settle. Don’t settle in this life. Don’t settle. Don’t allow yourself to settle. Push through the pain. On the other side of that pain is something special for you to go into the next level.” – Brian Dawkins, 2018, Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction QB: A collective sigh of relief washed over the City of Brotherly Love when Carson Wentz was not placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list to start training camp. Recovering from multiple ligament tears is no easy feat, and it would’ve been understandable to keep Wentz on PUP, potentially into the regular season. By not putting him on PUP to start camp, the team cannot put him on PUP for the regular season, either. In other words, the team is confident he’ll be cleared to play in Week 1 or shortly after that. On July 26th, enthusiasm roared anew as Wentz participated in 11-on-11 drills; which was something that surprised even the most optimistic fans. His performance in the first few days of 11-on-11s led beat writer Jimmy Kempski to declare, “Barring some kind of setback, Carson Wentz is going to start Week 1 of the regular season.” The rampant excitement was tempered a bit in the last few days of practice because Wentz hasn’t participated in team drills since. Neither head coach Doug Pederson nor Wentz are worried. Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles has been erratic in camp, but that’s nothing new for the 29-year old veteran. Nate Sudfeld, trying to convince the team to keep three quarterbacks on the active roster, has been a pillar of consistency and looks to have made significant strides. Sudfeld could be the No. 2 in 2019 if Foles moves on to be a starter elsewhere.

RB: Jay Ajayi is going to be the team’s lead running back, but questions remain as to whether that means 40% of the snaps or 70%, or somewhere in between. Pederson was effusive in his praise for Ajayi late last week. "Now we've had a full off-season with him and what we're seeing in camp. He's the type of guy that you can keep in there all three downs if you wanted to. But it’s something, too, that he's really been working on his

route running from the backfield, working on his hands. He's catching the ball extremely well,” said Pederson. "He's smart. He sees the hole. This is a guy that, as he gets a little more comfortable with what we do, now we're giving him everything, where last year it was a little bit limited on packages and things like that. We're giving him everything. " Corey Clement has the No. 2 role secured, and ageless Darren Sproles looks like he hasn’t lost a step and will factor into the rotation, primarily on passing downs. Matt Jones, Donnell Pumphrey, Wendell Smallwood, and Josh Adams are likely competing for one roster spot in the coming weeks.

WR: As expected, Alshon Jeffery started training camp on the PUP list as he recovers from surgery on a torn rotator cuff. Recovery times can vary, and expecting him to be 100% for Week 1 is optimistic, but still a possibility. Jeffery didn’t miss a game last year, but that’s in stark contrast to his tenure in Chicago. Mack Hollins is getting Jeffery’s first-team reps and making the most of his opportunity. Nelson Agholor’s is entrenched as the team’s primary slot receiver and is the most likely to lead the team in targets outside of tight end Zach Ertz. Free agent veteran Mike Wallace fit in quickly and will be an upgrade from Torrey Smith. It’s too early to handicap the final roster spots, as Markus Wheaton, Shelton Gibson, and Greg Ward have all flashed in limited opportunities. Veteran Kamar Aiken was signed a week ago but mainly as a camp body while Jeffery recuperates.

TE: Zach Ertz is the best skill player on the roster, and there’s no mystery to his role as the top receiver. The more interesting battle has been between veteran free agent Richard Rodgers and rookie Dallas Goedert. Both will play a lot in place of the retired Brent Celek and free agent Trey Burton, but one of them stands to play a role in the team’s key short-yardage and goal-line packages. Right now the edge goes to Goedert. Goedert has dominated in the red zone so far, including a three-touchdown practice against the first-team defense. Ertz is elated at Goedert’s addition because he is also a two-way player, which makes the Eagles offense less predictable. “It’s going to be different than in years past,” Ertz said. “In years past, when it was me and Brent (Celek) on the field it was more run-dominant. When it was me and Trey (Burton), it was more pass-dominant and teams went nickel. … When it was Trey and I, I was always the guy with my hand in the ground [to block]. "[Now], teams are going to really have to choose whether they want to go base or go nickel to the two of us. … Now you can kind of vary it up.”

Defense: The Eagles depth is going to be tested early in

the preseason. Defensive tackle Tim Jernigan, recovering from back surgery, appears a long way from returning. Unproven Destiny Vaeao has taken most of the first-team snaps in his stead, but Haloti Ngata figures to push for the starting role as he acclimates to Jim Schwartz’ system. Ngata has been deferential to Vaeao

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in the early going: “Vaeao is doing such a great job right now. I’m learning a lot from him and him being in front of me. We’re going to have a good rotation and strong defensive front.” Brandon Graham is also on the PUP list, but both he and the coaches continue to push for a Week 1 return. Derek Barnett has stepped into Graham’s spot without a hitch, and veteran acquisition Michael Bennett is having a strong camp, too. Barnett, Bennett, and Chris Long are an impressive trio and are more than capable of holding things down in a rotation while Graham recovers. On a brighter note, middle linebacker Jordan Hicks has been flawless in his return from an Achilles injury last year. He’s been a full camp participant with no limitations. The surprise decision to cut Mychal Kendricks in May created a vacuum on the weak side. It’s too early to call a winner, but Kamu Grugier-Hill has emerged the favorite. Grugier-Hill is a special teams standout and too valuable to pull from that unit, which may limit Grugier-Hill to particular sub-packages on defense. But if the team picks a starter on merit, Grugier-Hill deserves to be in the lineup. "Well, in [Grugier-Hill’s] case he's obviously a tremendous four-core special teams guy for us. That role is going to stay the same for him. He's very valuable there. His weight has gone up this offseason, this training camp. He's a guy that we can kind of plug and play in that weak-side linebacker position,” said Pederson. "He's done an outstanding job there right now. These games are going to be valuable for him gaining experience and playing. And given the depth at that spot, I think this is the first time we've had this much depth at the linebacker spot since I've been here.” In the secondary, the starting quartet of Jalen Mills, Ronald Darby, Malcolm Jenkins, and Rodney McLeod are in fine form, but the best story of camp has been the healthy return of cornerback Sidney Jones. Jones, who red-shirted last year recovering from a collegiate Achilles injury, has been the nickel back for most of the first-team reps. He doesn’t have the role secured, as De’Vante Bausby is also playing well in the one-third of first-team snaps he’s been allotted. Safety depth was a potential concern with Chris Maragos on the PUP list, but veteran Corey Graham re-signed this week; he’ll be the primary backup to both McLeod and Jenkins.

Returners: In a surprise move, the team has given Darren Sproles first-team reps with the kickoff return team. The 35-year-old Sproles leads all active players in career yardage but hasn't fielded multiple kickoffs in a season since 2013 as he gave them up to keep himself fresh for offense and punt returns.

Eagles Depth Chart QB: Carson Wentz (inj), Nick Foles, Nate Sudfeld, Joe Callahan, Jeremiah Briscoe RB: Jay Ajayi, Corey Clement (3RB/SD), Darren Sproles (3RB), Wendell Smallwood, Josh Adams, Donnel Pumphrey, Matt Jones WR: Alshon Jeffery (inj), Nelson Agholor, Mike Wallace, Mack Hollins, Shelton Gibson, Markus Wheaton, Greg Ward, Bryce

Treggs, Kamar Aiken, Dominique Williams, Rashard Davis TE: Zach Ertz, Dallas Goedert, Richard Rodgers, Joshua Perkins, Billy Brown, Adam Zaruba LT: Jason Peters, Halapoulivaati Vaitai LG: Stefen Wisniewski, Chance Warmack C: Jason Kelce, Matt Pryor RG: Brandon Brooks, Isaac Seumalo RT: Lane Johnson, Jordan Mailata K: Jake Elliott DT: Fletcher Cox, Timmy Jernigan (inj), Haloti Ngata, Destiny Vaeao, Elijah Qualls, Taylor Hart DE: Brandon Graham (inj), Derek Barnett, Michael Bennett, Chris Long, Josh Sweat, Steven Means, Joe Ostman, Aziz Shittu MLB: Jordan Hicks (inj), Joe Walker OLB: Nigel Bradham (susp), Kami Grugier-Hill, Corey Nelson, LaRoy Reynolds, Nate Gerry, Paul Worrilow (IR) CB: Ronald Darby, Jalen Mills, Sidney Jones, Rasul Douglas, Avonte Maddox, DeVante Bausby, Randall Goforth, Elie Bouka, D.J. Killings, Chandon Sullivan S: Malcolm Jenkins (FS), Rodney McLeod (SS), Chris Maragos, Corey Graham, Tre Sullivan, Steve Roberts, Jeremy Reaves Coaches: Head Coach: Doug Pederson, Off Coord: Mike Groh, RB Coach: Duce Staley, WR Coach: Gunter Brewer, TE Coach: Justin Peelle, OL Coach: Jeff Stoutland, SpecTm Coach: Dave Fipp, Def Coord: Jim Schwartz, DL Coach: Chris Wilson, LB Coach: Ken Flajole, DB Coach: Cory Undlin, DB Coach: Tim Hauck

Pittsburgh Steelers

QB: Not much needs to be said about Ben Roethlisberger, but he insists he’s in the best shape of his career, which is in stark contrast to last year. Behind him is where the position gets interesting. Landry Jones remains the No. 2, but his spot isn’t guaranteed. If 2018 third-round pick Mason Rudolph wins the backup job, Jones could be released while Joshua Dobbs remains as the No 3. If Rudolph can’t do that, Jones could be the No. 2 to Rudolph’s No. 3 with Dobbs the odd man out. Either way, it seems that Rudolph’s spot is safe. There is a very slim chance that all four make the roster.

RB: The big story is Le’Veon Bell’s holdout. Since Bell held out last year and returned to play at a high level, there’s not much concern from Steelers fans nor should there be. The other running backs are going to get a ton of work in the preseason in Bell’s absence, so we’ll get a good understanding of the backup’s roles and pecking order. It appears James Conner is in the lead for the backup role for three reasons. First, he is slimmer and leaner than last year; second, rookie Jalen Samuels is struggling in pass protection; last, Samuels is taking reps as a slot receiver. Samuels is content with his role, “I don’t want to be held to just one skill.” Veteran Stevan Ridley is also in the mix but unlikely to overtake Conner. Fitzgerald Toussaint’s chances of making the 53-man roster hinge on special teams play.

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WR: Antonio Brown left practice this week with an undisclosed injury. ProFootballTalk reported that it was a strained quadriceps muscle. Adam Schefter called it day-to-day, even after the report that Brown returned to Pittsburgh for further evaluation. The WR2 role is not in doubt; after a debut season in which he set Steelers rookie records (and led all NFL rookies in yards), JuJu Smith-Schuster is looking to make he and Brown the best wide receiver duo in the NFL. The team’s No. 3 position may also be fantasy viable, and the competition is fierce. Second-round rookie James Washington would appear to have the inside track and is making highlight-reel plays in practice, but veteran Justin Hunter is making a push, too. Hunter has been great in the red zone and is closer in measurables (6-foot-4, 201 pounds) to Martavis Bryant than Washington (5-foot-11, 214 pounds) is.

TE: After last season’s playoff loss to Jacksonville in which Vance McDonald caught ten passes for 112 yards on 16 targets, many thought he would surpass Jesse James on the depth chart. McDonald’s health, however, has hindered that trajectory. Conversely, James’ ability to stay healthy is a quality fantasy football managers underappreciate, but coaches love. James has never missed a game, while McDonald missed five last season alone.

Defense: The defense had its weak spots in 2017 due to a combination of injuries and underperforming players. Saftey Sean was beaten deep repeatedly. And, tragically, Ryan Shazier’s spinal injury devastated the unit. The two most significant camp battles are at safety and middle linebacker. Looking to fill the two starting spots are Davis, free agent Morgan Burnett, and first-round draft pick Terrell Edmunds. In the middle, the battle is between Tyler Matakevich and veteran Jon Bostic, a free agent signing. In the secondary, second-year cornerback Cameron Sutton has impressed. Another key player on the defense will be the much-maligned Bud Dupree. The team is switching Dupree to the right side of the defense to help his effectiveness. But his career has been marred by inconsistency and disappointment thus far.

Returners: The Steelers are known for surprises on special teams. Last year, their opening-day punt and kickoff returners didn't receive a single snap in those roles in training camps or preseason. Both of those players -- Antonio Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster – remain on the roster, as critical pieces of the starting offense; but the coaches know what they have in both. So when players like Cameron Sutton and Quadree Henderson receive a lot of work on special teams, it could mean they're in the running for returner jobs, or it could just mean the Steelers don't want to risk their starting receivers on meaningless training camp snaps.

Steelers Depth Chart QB: Ben Roethlisberger, Landry Jones, Mason Rudolph, Joshua Dobbs RB: Le′Veon Bell (UFA-F), James Conner, Jaylen Samuels (FB), Fitzgerald Toussaint, Stevan Ridley, Jarvion Franklin, James Summers FB: Roosevelt Nix WR: Antonio Brown (PR), JuJu Smith-Schuster, James Washington, Justin Hunter, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Quadree Henderson (KR/PR), Eli Rogers, Marcus Trucker, Tevin Jones, Justin Thomas, Trey Griffey TE: Vance McDonald, Jesse James, Xavier Grimble, Jake McGee LT: Alejandro Villanueva, Matt Feiler LG: Ramon Foster C: Maurkice Pouncey, BJ Finney RG: David Decastro, Jerald Hawkins RT: Marcus Gilbert, Chuks Okorafor K: Chris Boswell NT: Javon Hargrave, Daniel McCullers, Joshua Frazier DE: Stephon Tuitt, Cameron Heyward, Tyson Alualu, L.T. Walton, Casey Sayles, Lavon Hooks, Ola Adeniyi, Darnell Leslie ILB: Vince Williams, Tyler Matakevich, Jon Bostic, L.J. Fort, Matthew Thomas, Keith Kelsey, Matt Galambos, Ryan Shazier (inj) OLB: Bud Dupree, T.J. Watt, Anthony Chickillo, Keion Adams, Farrington Huguenin CB: Artie Burns, Joe Haden, Mike Hilton, Coty Sensabaugh, Cameron Sutton, Brian Allen, Greg Ducre (RFA), Dashaun Phillips, Antonio Crawford S: Morgan Burnett (FS), Sean Davis (SS), Terrell Edmunds, Marcus Allen, Nate Berhe, Jordan Dangerfield (FS), Daimion Stafford, Malik Golden Coaches: Head Coach: Mike Tomlin, QB Coach: Randy Fichtner, RB Coach: James Saxon, WR Coach: Darryl Drake, TE Coach: James Daniel, OL Coach: Mike Munchak, SpecTm Coach: Danny Smith, Def Coord: Keith Butler, DL Coach: Karl Dunbar, LB Coach: Joey Porter, LB Coach: Jerry Olsavsky, DB Coach: Tom Bradley

San Francisco 49ers

QB: Jimmy Garoppolo has shown an immediate rapport with Marquise Goodwin as training camp has progressed. He was initially accurate in the short and intermediate areas but struggled to connect on deeper passes. As training camp has progressed, he has improved his deep ball, connecting on two long passes. Multiple camp reports have pointed to a trend of heavily targeting the tight end and running backs far more than his wide receivers. C.J. Beathard and Nick Mullens are battling for the No. 2 spot behind Garoppolo, with Beathard the clear favorite.

RB: Jerick McKinnon is having an impressive camp, particularly as a receiver. Matt Breida has also received consistent buzz. Grant Cohen of The Press Democrat called Breida the “best running back on the team. The most consistent. Runs harder than everyone else. All of

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his reps the first three days have been good.” Joe Williams has improved his mindset after a frustrating rookie season. According to head coach Kyle Shanahan, “Joe wasn’t quite as ready last year and that does make you wonder, because you can’t succeed if you don’t have that mindset. But I’ve seen it this year. I saw it in the way he worked and I feel that he fixed his body, got a lot more muscle and got in better shape.” Notably, the offensive line has struggled to create running lanes in team practices.

WR: Pierre Garcon is practicing after questions about his health entering training camp. He has been matched up with Richard Sherman and was able to beat Sherman on a deep route in a video that went viral. Marquise Goodwin has been the highlight player thus far, connecting with Garoppolo on two long passes on Wednesday. Goodwin has drawn beat writer praise as the lead receiver. Shanahan spoke highly of Goodwin, “when you can beat man coverage like that on almost any route we give you, and he’s catching it consistently, we’re excited about his year…And (we) expect him to get a lot of opportunities.” Dante Pettis has also shown well in 1-on-1 drills against corners and been frequently praised. If there has been a criticism of Pettis, it has been his struggles winning contested balls. He did miss practice on Friday with a groin issue, so his health and momentum are keys to monitor. Slot receiver Trent Taylor spent the first portion of training camp on the PUP list but has been activated. He has yet to participate in team drills. Aaron Burbridge took snaps with the starters when Garcon took a day off and was the only wide receiver to catch a pass from Garoppolo in team drills. Rookie Richie James was the slot receiver with the first-team offense during a later portion of Friday’s practice. James had previously been working with Beathard and the reserves, so that is a notable progression.

TE: Cole Hikutini was carted off in practice and is expected to miss a week with a groin injury. Second-year player George Kittle had several strong practices and performed well in team drills. Garoppolo has been accurate in the short and intermediate area, showing good touch, so there should be an opportunity for the tight ends to have a consistent target share. Backup Garrett Celek has also worked with Garoppolo during camp.

Defense: Richard Sherman left Friday’s practice with hamstring tightness. Coming off a torn Achilles in 2017, compensatory injuries like his hamstring are a concern for Sherman. The injury is expected to keep him sidelined for at least a week when he will be reevaluated. Defensive end Cassius Marsh injured his groin and was forced to leave practice early. Defensive tackle Arik Armstead suffered a serious hamstring injury which is expected to linger into the regular season. Interior defensive linemen Solomon

Thomas and DeForest Buckner have been disruptive. After a domestic violence arrest where his ex-girlfriend recanted her allegations, Rueben Foster has been a full participant in camp. He will serve a two-game suspension to start the season.

Returners: Rookie Dante Pettis set an NCAA record with nine career punt return touchdowns, and he'll be given every opportunity to thrive in that role for the 49ers. On kickoffs, however, the 49ers depth chart is much more unsettled, with Pettis, Matt Breida, Trent Taylor, Victor Bolden, and others all getting early opportunities.

49ers Depth Chart QB: Jimmy Garoppolo, C.J. Beathard, Nick Mullens, Jack Heneghan RB: Jerick McKinnon, Matt Breida, Joe Williams, Jeremy McNichols, Raheem Mostert FB: Kyle Juszczyk, Malcolm Johnson WR: Marquise Goodwin, Pierre Garcon, Trent Taylor (inj), Dante Pettis (KR/PR), Kendrick Bourne, Richie James, Aldrick Robinson, Aaron Burbridge, Victor Bolden (susp), Max McCaffrey, DeAndre Carter TE: George Kittle, Garrett Celek, Cole Hikutini, Cole Wick, Kyle Nelson, Ross Dwelley LT: Joe Staley LG: Laken Tomlinson, Jonathan Cooper C: Weston Richburg, Zane Beadles RG: Josh Garnett, Erik Magnusen RT: Mike McGlinchey, Garry Gilliam K: Robbie Gould DT: DeForest Buckner, Earl Mitchell (NT), D.J. Jones (NT), Jullian Taylor, Sheldon Day DE: Solomon Thomas, Arik Armstead, Jeremiah Attaochu, Ronald Blair, Cassius Marsh, Pita Taumoepenu (inj), Kentavius Street (inj) MLB: Reuben Foster (susp), Brock Coyle OLB: Malcolm Smith, Eli Harold (S/DE), Fred Warner (W/M), Dekoda Watson (S), Korey Toomer, Mark Nzeocha (RFA), Jimmie Gilbert, Boseko Lokombo CB: Richard Sherman, Jimmie Ward, K′Waun Williams, Ahkello Witherspoon, Dexter McCoil, Greg Mabin, Tarvarus McFadden S: Jaquiski Tartt, Adrian Colbert (FS), Tarvarius Moore, D.J. Reed (FS/CB), Marcell Harris, Don Jones, Antone Exum, Tyvis Powell, Chanceller James Coaches: Head Coach: Kyle Shanahan, QB Coach: Rich Scangarello, RB Coach: Bobby Turner, WR Coach: Mike LaFleur, TE Coach: Jon Embree, OL Coach: John Benton, SpecTm Coach: Richard Hightower, Def Coord: Robert Saleh, DL Coach: Jeff Zgonina, LB Coach: DeMeco Ryans, LB Coach: Johnny Holland, DB Coach: Jeff Hafley

Seattle Seahawks

QB: There’s not much to report here, with Russell Wilson returning as the starter, Austin Davis managing backup duties again and rookie Alex McGough trying to

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wrest the second spot from Davis. Wilson looked sharp in a recent mock game, throwing four touchdown passes in four drives. For Wilson, this preseason is all about synching up with new coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and a rebuilt receiving corps.

RB: Chris Carson has returned from injury to high praise, and ESPN’s Brady Henderson wrote that he “has easily been the most impressive of Seattle's running backs.” He feels rookie Rashaad Penny will play primarily as a change-of-pace or third-down role; although others think Penny will be the feature back. The Seattle Times’ Mike Vorel also wrote that Carson seems to have the edge in goal-line drills, saying the pecking order on Friday was “1) Chris Carson, 2) Rashaad Penny, and 3) Mike Davis.” Penny is also returning punts, which could indicate the team is looking for other ways to get him on the field. Carson scored on a 65-yard touchdown catch-and-run from Wilson during last week’s mock game.

WR: With Doug Baldwin out, other receivers are getting a chance to make their case for playing time. Baldwin isn’t likely to miss time to start the season; the coaches are merely being cautious with their top pass catcher. “We just want to reconstruct his return to conditioning and all that kind of stuff, because he took a little bit of time off and we didn’t handle that just right,” Carroll was said. “So we just want to give him the chance to get back right, with really good care and all that, knowing that he’s fine.” Of the guys behind Baldwin, 34-year-old Brandon Marshall seems to be making the most of his chance. While the team is easing him back into the lineup, he caught a touchdown on his one catch in the mock game. On the play, a 30-yard catch, he had to beat tight coverage by rookie Tre Flowers, and it seems like Marshall might still have something in the tank. Tyler Lockett had an outstanding week, capping it off with a beautiful diving catch on Friday. Lockett has said he was still recovering from a 2016 broken leg, but all is well now, according to FOX Q13. Jaron Brown has also had moments, including six catches on six targets including a 43-yard reception in the aforementioned mock game. “He’s a marvelous addition and a very competitive, bright guy to have in your club,” Carroll said after Saturday’s scrimmage. “He’s been nothing but good.” Wilson has called him the “silent assassin” according to SeahawksWire.com’s Andy Patton.

TE: Nick Vannett was having a dull camp, until a breakout day on Friday. Vannett had multiple impressive grabs during practice on Friday, including a throw down the seam where he leaped and pulled the ball out of linebacker Bobby Wagner’s hands. When Ed Dickson returns from injury, he will probably take over starting duties, but Vannett is making his case. During Saturday’s mock game, however it was Will Dissly who stood out according to Bob Condotta. Dissly got the bulk of the first-team work. His quarterback took notice,

too, “He’s been, in my opinion, one of the stars of camp. He keeps showing up.’’

Defense: The defense is not what you’re used to seeing and not just because of the departures of Richard Sherman, Michael Bennett, and Kam Chancellor. Injuries are playing a part, with defensive end Dion Jordan (shin), linebacker Jake Pugh, cornerback Dontae Johnson (foot), defensive tackle Tom Johnson (groin), defensive end Marcus Smith II (hip flexor), linebacker D.J. Alexander, defensive tackle Poona Ford, defensive back Mike Tyson (ribs), and defensive end Frank Clark (hand) all on the shelf to some extent. That’s bound to make it hard to judge the unit’s effectiveness. At defensive end, Branden Jackson and Quinton Jefferson have stepped up, with Jefferson producing two sacks during the mock game. The team is still looking for more edge rushers and is bringing in Damontre Moore and Lamarr Houston for visits. The secondary is also struggling with injuries and Earl Thomas’ holdout, and rookie Tre Flowers is having to take on more work than perhaps was expected. Sometimes he struggles, as he did when Brandon Marshall beat him in tight coverage for a touchdown, but he’s coming along.

K: The placekicker job is up for grabs between Sebastian Janikowski and Jason Myers. Myers missed a field goal on July 26, while Janikowski missed two on August 1. Coach Carroll was impressed with one of them, a 53-yard attempt that boomed off of an upright about two-thirds of the way up. It’s anyone’s guess who wins the job.

Returners: Since entering the league, Tyler Lockett has fielded more than 90% of Seattle's returns despite missing a game and playing through injury. While a strong bet to reprise his role, rookie running back Rashaad Penny has an uncommonly good college special teams resume. Penny was the first college player to record at least 75 kickoff returns and average at least 28 yards per return since Lockett himself.

Seahawks Depth Chart QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, Alex McGough RB: Chris Carson, Rashaad Penny, C.J. Prosise (3RB), J.D. McKissic (3RB), Mike Davis FB: Khalid Hill, Tre Madden, Jalston Fowler, Marcus Martin WR: Doug Baldwin (inj), Tyler Lockett (KR/PR), Jaron Brown, Amara Darboh, Brandon Marshall, Tanner McEvoy, David Moore, Marcus Johnson, Taj Williams, Keenan Reynolds, Cyril Grayson, Caleb Scott TE: Ed Dickson, Nick Vannett, Will Dissly, Tyrone Swoopes, Kyle Carter LT: Duane Brown, Jamarco Jones, Isaiah Battle LG: Ethan Pocic, Rees Odhiambo C: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt RG: D.J. Fluker RT: Germain Ifedi, George Fant K: Sebastian Janikowski, Jason Myers DT: Jarran Reed, Shamar Stephen, Nazair Jones, Tom Johnson, Quinton Jefferson, Garrison Smith, Poona Ford, Eddy Wilson, Malik McDowell (res)

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DE: Frank Clark, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith, Rasheem Green, Branden Jackson, Christian French, Noble Nwachukwu, Marcell Frazier MLB: Bobby Wagner, Paul Dawson, Josh Forrest OLB: K.J. Wright (W) (inj), Barkevious Mingo (S/DE), Shaquem Griffin (W), Jake Martin, D.J. Alexander, Dewey McDonald (RFA), Josh Parry, Jake Pugh, Austin Calitro, Warren Long, Jason Hall, Emmanuel Beal CB: Shaquill Griffin, Byron Maxwell, Justin Coleman, Dontae Johnson, Neiko Thorpe, DeAndre Elliott, Trovon Reed, Alex Carter, Akeem King S: Earl Thomas (FS), Bradley McDougald (SS), Delano Hill (SS), Tedrick Thompson (FS), Tre Flowers (FS), Maurice Alexander, Jordan Simone, Michael Tyson Coaches: Head Coach: Pete Carroll, Off Coord: Brian Schottenheimer, QB Coach: Dave Canales, RB Coach: Chad Morton, WR Coach: Nate Carroll, TE Coach: Pat McPherson, OL Coach: Mike Solari, SpecTm Coach: Brian Schneider, Def Coord: Ken Norton, DL Coach: Clint Hurtt, DB Coach: Nick Sorensen, DB Coach: Andre Curtis

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB: Ryan Fitzpatrick is earning the majority of first-team reps due to Jameis Winston’s early-season suspension. Fitzpatrick has built rapport with Chris Godwin in the vertical game. Although Fitzpatrick is handling most of the first-team reps, Winston is still receiving the most reps split among three practice groups. Both quarterbacks are connecting in the vertical game with higher frequency, including passes to Godwin, O.J. Howard, DeSean Jackson, Bernard Reedy, and Cameron Brate.

RB: Peyton Barber lost weight during the offseason and has improved his speed and quickness. He has impressed observers with big-play runs up the middle and thus far, has held off rookie Ronald Jones II. Barber has also performed well in red zone duties as a receiver. Jones is earning a share of first-team reps, but the vast majority are going to Barber. The team wants Jones to work on his receiving. Jacquizz Rodgers is a reliable receiver and has been a steady veteran presence during scrimmages. Rookie Shaun Wilson, a scat back from Duke, is in the running for the return specialist role and he’s made some plays from the backfield. He was also the only undrafted free agent that head coach Dirk Koetter mentioned as a standout with the potential to make the roster. The staff is impressed with Wilson’s maturity.

WR: Chris Godwin has been one of the best big-play receivers during training camp. He’s winning with his speed and physical play, including 50/50 targets. Koetter considers Godwin a “fourth starter.” Because Adam Humphries has been considered the team’s slot receiver, it’s becoming more likely that Godwin could

force a split in playing time with both Humphries and Jackson so the Buccaneers staff can get Godwin on the field more often. Although Jackson may split playing time with Godwin, the Buccaneers are moving him around the offense, and he’s performing well. Rookie Justin Watson has shown well enough that he should make the team and potentially earn some looks in redzone packages. He has drawn comparisons to Mike Evans, and he’s converting big plays on the same routes as Evans during practice. Jackson has been working extra with Watson because he likes the rookie’s potential. Keep an eye on undrafted free agent Bobo Wilson from Florida State, who has made several impressive catches. He is competing with Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, and Jake Lampman for the final spot.

TE: O.J. Howard has been able to get behind the defense during practice when his quarterback had to break the pocket. The primary emphasis for Howard this spring and summer has been pass protection. Howard has limitless potential, but the Buccaneers are also going to feature Cameron Brate regularly. Brate signed a big extension this offseason and has been impressive and business-like through the start of camp.

Defense: Rookie defensive tackle Vita Vea limped off the field with a calf injury during the fourth day of camp, but it’s not serious. Cornerback Carlton Davis has performed well in coverage with the first-team defense as both an off-coverage and press coverage defender. Free agent defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul is performing well, flashing dominant play in one-on-one drills. Fellow free agent defensive end Vinny Curry is another addition to a unit that has been impressive thus far in camp. The addition of these two free agents means that Noah Spence is likely moving to a designated pass-rusher role. Rookie defensive back M.J. Stewart has impressed as a hybrid option that can play some safety and slot corner. He has shown some good coverage against the likes of fellow camp standout Godwin and displayed strong hands with some difficult interceptions.

Returners: Undrafted and undersized rookie Shaun Wilson has been one of the early stars in camp, which is a good sign for his prospects. Like many undrafted players, Wilson had success on special teams in college and could play a significant role on kickoff returns if he's able to make the final 53-man roster.

Buccaneers Depth Chart QB: Jameis Winston (susp), Ryan Fitzpatrick, Ryan Griffin, Riley Ferguson, Austin Allen RB: Peyton Barber (SD), Ronald Jones II, Charls Sims (3RB), Jacquizz Rodgers (KR), Shaun Wilson FB: Austin Johnson, Donnie Ernsberger WR: Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, DeSean Jackson, Adam Humphries, Justin Watson, Bobo Wilson, Freddie Martino, Jake Lampman

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TE: O.J. Howard, Cameron Brate, Antony Auclair, Alan Cross (FB) LT: Donovan Smith, Leonard Wester LG: Ali Marpet, Evan Smith C: Ryan Jensen, Joe Hawley RG: Caleb Benenoch, Alex Cappa RT: Demar Dotson K: Chandler Catanzaro DT: Gerald McCoy (inj), Vita Vea, Beau Allen, DaVonte Lambert, Steve Tu′ikolovatu DE: Jason Pierre-Paul, Vinny Curry, Noah Spence, William Gholston, Mitch Unrein, Channing Ward, Will Clarke, Pat O′Conner MLB: Kwon Alexander, Riley Bullough, Jeff Knox OLB: Lavonte David (W) (inj), Kendell Beckwith (S) (inj), Adarius Taylor (inj), Jack Cichy (M/S/W), Devante Bond, Cameron Lynch, Nigel Harris, Eric Nzeocha CB: Brent Grimes, Carlton Davis, Vernon Hargreaves III, M.J. Stewart (FS/CB), Ryan Smith, Javien Elliott, Maurice Fleming, David Rivers, Mark Myers S: Justin Evans, Chris Conte, Keith Tandy, Josh Robinson, Jordan Whitehead, Godwin Igwebuike Coaches: Head Coach: Dirk Koetter, Off Coord: Todd Monken, QB Coach: Mike Bajakian, RB Coach: Tim Spencer, WR Coach: Skyler Fulton, TE Coach: Ben Steele, OL Coach: George Warhop, SpecTm Coach: Nate Kaczor, Def Coord: Mike Smith, DL Coach: Brentson Buckner, LB Coach: Mark Duffner, DB Coach: Brett Maxie, DB Coach: Jon Hoke

Tennessee Titans

QB: Marcus Mariota has had a strong opening to training camp and the scheme changes implemented by offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur appear to be a natural fit for the young quarterback. Journeyman Blaine Gabbert is showing poise that the other young signal callers on the roster can’t match and can be considered a lock for the backup job. While Riley Ferguson is still hanging around, it’s likely that sixth-round draft selection Luke Falk will win the third-string job, as the team seems to favor him as a developmental option. Falk has made rookie mistakes, but he has also shown surprising accuracy in drills.

RB: Compared to other position groups, the running backs have been relatively quiet early in camp when contact is limited and installing the passing offense is getting most of the attention from the coaches. Derrick Henry recently made it known that he wants to become a “dominant back,” but that will be difficult while he splits touches with Dion Lewis. Akrum Wadley has had a few nice runs and seems to be pushing David Fluellen for the third-string role.

WR: Corey Davis has been phenomenal through the opening days of camp. His rapport with Marcus Mariota seems to be growing, and the two have connected on a few long passes that have wowed onlookers. Davis left

practice early on Saturday and sat out on Monday, but there’s no indication it’s anything serious. The team placed Rishard Matthews on the PUP list a few days after camp began. The team is not commenting on the nature of the injury, but it’s possible that Matthews is struggling again with hamstring issues, as he did last season. Matthews being out has meant increased repetitions for Taywan Taylor. Last year, Taylor primarily worked from the slot, but he is getting repetitions mainly on the outside this year. Though Tajae Sharpe and Darius Jennings are locked in a battle for the fourth spot, neither has done much to distance themselves. Deontay Burnett, Michael Campanaro, and Nick Williams are competing for the fifth spot and special teams roles. It is the undrafted Burnett who has been the standout and is most likely to make the roster after getting first-team repetitions in Saturday’s practice at both receiver and kick returner.

TE: Shortly after camp opened, Delanie Walker was given an extension that will keep him with the team through 2020 if they so choose. Walker tweaked his ankle on the first day of camp and has been held out for precautionary reasons since, leaving Jonnu Smith to take his first-team repetitions. Smith is looking improved and fluid as a route runner. Luke Stocker is the team’s blocking tight end and has been used at fullback on some plays. It remains to be seen if Phillip Supernaw, who has been sitting out with an injury, will make the final roster.

Defense: The defense has made it a mandate to be more aggressive under defensive coordinator Dean Pees. Speaking of the scheme, outside linebacker Brian Orakpo said, “It’s attack, attack, attack. That’s what it’s all about. You’re going to see a whole bunch of different mismatches; you’re going to see all kinds of different packages. We’ve got a lot in store to free up a lot of guys, get some good match-ups, flip-flop here and there, just all kinds of different things.” Jurell Casey has been dominant, consistently disrupting the offensive flow in 11-on-11 drills. Kevin Dodd failed to report for camp and was waived. Rookie linebacker Rashaan Evans has missed recent practices due to issues with hydration and heat cramps. Undrafted free agent Sharif Finch has been making plays, and the coaching staff seems to have taken a shine to him. The outside linebacker has a real shot to make the roster. Free agent Malcolm Butler is playing with a chip on his shoulder after sitting out the Super Bowl. He has been making splashy plays resulting in a few interceptions. Jonathan Cyprien tore his ACL in practice and was ruled out for the season. Kendrick Lewis is also banged up currently, forcing the Titans to sign free agent Kenny Vaccaro. They have not ruled out bringing in free agent Eric Reid for a future visit due to their dire need at the strong safety position.

Returners: The competition at return specialist is one of the more interesting ones in the league. Talented

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sophomore Adoree' Jackson played well as a rookie but might be seeing a more substantial role on defense, so the Titans signed veteran Michael Campanaro to compete for the job. A few other players have received snaps in camp, but realistically the job is likely to go to one of those two players.

Titans Depth Chart QB: Marcus Mariota, Blaine Gabbert, Luke Falk, Tyler Ferguson RB: Derrick Henry (SD), Dion Lewis (3RB), David Fluellen (KR), Akrum Wadley WR: Corey Davis, Rishard Matthews, Taywan Taylor, Tajae Sharpe, Deontay Burnett, Michael Campanaro, Darius Jennings, Zach Pascal, Nick Williams TE: Delanie Walker, Jonnu Smith, Philip Supernaw, Luke Stocker, Tim Semish LT: Taylor Lewan, Dennis Kelly LG: Quinton Spain, Xavier Sua-Filo C: Ben Jones, Brian Schwenke RG: Josh Kline, Corey Levin RT: Jack Conklin, Kevin Pamphile K: Ryan Succop DT: Jurell Casey, Bennie Logan, Austin Johnson, Antwaun Woods, Julius Warmsley DE: DaQuan Jones, David King, Matt Dickerson ILB: Wesley Woodyard, Rashaan Evans, Jayon Brown, Will Compton, Nate Palmer, Daren Bates, Denzel Johnson OLB: Brian Orakpo, Derrick Morgan, Harold Landry, Josh Carraway, Aaron Wallace, Nick Deluca CB: Logan Ryan, Malcolm Butler, Adoree Jackson (PR), Leshaun Sims, Kalan Reed, Tye Smith, Jeremy Boykins S: Kevin Byard (FS), Kenny Vaccaro (SS), Brynden Trawick, Dane Cruikshank, Curtis Riley (RFA), Kendrick Lewis, Demontre Hurst, Damon Webb, Jonathan Cyprien (IR) Coaches: Head Coach: Mike Vrabel, Off Coord: Matt LaFleur, QB Coach: Pat OHara, RB Coach: Tony Dews, WR Coach: Rob Moore, TE Coach: Arthur Smith, OL Coach: Keith Carter, SpecTm Coach: Craig Aukerman, Def Coord: Dean Pees, DL Coach: Terrell Williams, LB Coach: Tyrone McKenzie, LB Coach: Shane Bowen, DB Coach: Kerry Coombs

Washington Redskins

QB: As you might expect, it’s all smiles and platitudes at the start of training camp as the coaches and players try to reconcile the team’s decision to part ways with Kirk Cousins only to trade for Alex Smith and sign him to a huge extension with $71 million in guarantees. Smith, a proven leader, and a high-character guy was an immediate fit in the locker room. But is he an improvement over Cousins on the field? Time will tell, but head coach Jay Gruden thinks Smith’s versatility allows Washington to open up the playbook. “The problem I have with Alex is I don’t know what not to call — he can handle everything,” Gruden says. “He can run zone reads, he can run speed options, he can drop back and throw it deep, he can throw intermediate stuff, he can get you out of bad plays and into good plays, and

he’s a great game manager who protects the football. At the end of the day, you’re gonna be in every football game you play with Alex. He’s giving you a chance to win every game.” Colt McCoy remains entrenched as the backup and signed a $7-million extension that keeps him in Washington through 2019. Kevin Hogan hasn’t made a good impression in his first training with Washington. It’s early, but right now he would be a long shot to make the 53-man roster.

RB: If there were any questions about Derrius Guice’s role entering training camp, they’ve been put to rest. Guice has been as good as advertised, not only as a power runner but as a fluid receiver and willing pass protector. Any worries a slimmed down Rob Kelley or more mature Samaje Perine would push for a committee appear ill-conceived. Gruden: “We don’t know how many [running backs] we are going to keep. A lot is depending on other positions, you know, how many offensive linemen we have to keep and how many tight ends, you know, are we going to keep a fullback or not. Can Rob Kelley or Samaje Perine possibly be a fullback?” When the head coach is asking about their ability to play fullback, it doesn’t paint a picture of either pushing for carries over Guice. Even though third-down back Chris Thompson has been a fixture in practice, he’s trying to set low expectations for his early-season role. He doesn’t expect to be 100% until November, telling reporters his recovery from a broken fibula is more challenging than any other injury he’s endured. Gruden confirmed Thompson will sit out Thursday’s preseason opener.

WR: Josh Doctson cannot afford injuries, even minor setbacks after injuries and inconsistency kept him from approaching his potential as a former first-round draft pick. Unfortunately, Doctson suffered a shoulder injury last Wednesday, but x-rays were negative. He’s back to running individual drills but hasn’t returned to full contact team drills. As Doctson’s outlook dims, Jamison Crowder’s outlook brightens. He’s built immediate rapport with Alex Smith and is beginning to look like the after-the-catch weapon everyone saw two seasons ago. Free agent Paul Richardson started camp quietly but has turned it on of late. Richardson asserted himself in 1-on-1 drills and team drills over the previous three practices, which included a handful of deep (25+ yards downfield) completions from both Smith and Colt McCoy. It may all be moot, as coach Gruden cautioned against counting on any Washington receiver for fantasy football purposes, “Well, I think [with] Josh [Doctson]... I think people are looking for the stats to fly off the charts. But you know around here, the way we spread the ball around to Chris [Thompson], Jordan [Reed], Jamison [Crowder], Paul [Richardson Jr.] now, Maurice Harris and Robert Davis when he gets in there — it’s going to be hard for one guy to have a fantasy football superstar year.”

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TE: If there’s such a thing as injury-prone, Jordan Reed is the torch bearer for the term. While there will always be doubts about Reed’s ability to play 16 games, he’s participating in camp and deserves respect as one of the most dangerous assets on the roster. The coaches are being cautious and giving Reed plenty of time off, including full days as well as mid-practice periods. Vernon Davis is a known commodity, but Washington may have another insurance policy if (when?) Reed gets hurt; second-year Jeremy Sprinkle. He’s been singled out by coaches and beat writers repeatedly in camp, primarily for his blocking, but also as a redzone option.

Defense: Last year’s top pick, Jonathan Allen, has looked the part this preseason. He’s dominated as both a run defender and interior pass rusher. “We have very high expectations for Jonathan. He is an excellent football player without a doubt. He’s is not a one-dimensional player at all. He plays the run equally [as well] as he can rush the passer. So we just got to make sure we keep him fresh and healthy somehow,” said Gruden. Rookie Daron Payne was off to an impressive start in camp, but an ankle injury will sideline him for two-to-three weeks. Ryan Kerrigan remains the reliable veteran presence on the outside, but there are questions on the other side. All eyes are on Preston Smith, but he’s been up and down in camp, and Gruden chose his words carefully this week when discussing Smith’s progress. “I think he needs to be a dominant edge setter really, to go along with Ryan Kerrigan. It’s a time for him to step up, he’s got all the tools in the world.” The coaches are doing their best to tout veteran safety D.J. Swearinger, and downplaying his poor play last year as a byproduct of Montae Nicholson’s injury. With Nicholson back, coach Gruden is saying all the right things. “I think Montae [Nicholson’s] injury hurt a little more than people anticipated. He’s such an all-around great athlete, with great speed, and he does complement DJ [Swearinger] quite well. The safety position we feel good about.”

Returners: Head coach Jay Gruden isn't known for sharing more than he has to, and when asked if Jamison Crowder would continue to return punts after a 2017 season that saw his production cut nearly in half from a stellar 2016, Gruden replied, “Yeah, why not?" Despite Gruden's tepid endorsement, the team continues to work out other potential returners, most notably 7th-round rookie receiver Trey Quinn.

Redskins Depth Chart QB: Alex Smith, Colt McCoy, Kevin Hogan RB: Derrius Guice (SD), Chris Thompson (3RB), Samaje Perine, Robert Kelley, Byron Marshall, Kapri Bibbs, Martez Carter WR: Paul Richardson, Josh Doctson, Jamison Crowder (PR), Maurice Harris, Robert Davis, Trey Quinn, Brian Quick, Simmie Cobbs Jr., De′Mornay Pierson-El, Mikah Holder, Shay Fields TE: Jordan Reed, Vernon Davis, Jeremy Sprinkle, Manasseh

Garner LT: Trent Williams, Ty Nsekhe LG: Shawn Lauvao, Arie Kouandijo C: Chase Roullier, Tyler Catalina RG: Brandon Scherff RT: Morgan Moses, Geron Christian, T.J. Clemmings K: Dustin Hopkins NT: Da′Ron Payne, Ziggy Hood, Phil Taylor, Ondre Pipkins DE: Jonathan Allen, Stacy McGee (inj), Matt Ioannidis, Tim Settle, Anthony Lanier, Tavaris Barnes, Alex McCalister ILB: Zach Brown, Mason Foster, Josh Harvey-Clemons, Martrell Spaight, Shaun Dion Hamilton, Zach Vigil, Pete Robertson OLB: Ryan Kerrigan (W), Preston Smith (S), Ryan Anderson (W), Pernell McPhee CB: Josh Norman, Orlando Scandrick, Quinton Dunbar, Greg Stroman, Fabian Moreau (inj), Joshua Holsey S: D.J. Swearinger (FS), Montae Nicholson (SS), Deshazor Everett (FS), Adonis Alexander, Troy Apke, Fish Smithson, Kenny Ladler, Orion Stewart Coaches: Head Coach: Jay Gruden, Off Coord: Matt Cavanaugh, QB Coach: Kevin Oconnell, RB Coach: Randy Jordan, WR Coach: Ike Hilliard, TE Coach: Wes Phillips, OL Coach: Bill Callahan, SpecTm Coach: Ben Kotwica, Def Coord: Greg Manusky, DL Coach: Jim Tomsula, LB Coach: Kirk Olivadotti, LB Coach: Chad Grimm, DB Coach: Torrian Gray