As summer draws to a close, the excitement around NFL training camps begins to build. Teams across the league are kickstarting their preparations for the upcoming season.
Texans Begin Their Journey
The Houston Texans initiated their camp on a Wednesday, setting the tone for the season ahead. Rookies from most teams are expected to report this week, bringing fresh energy and aspirations.
Hurts' Hefty Contract and Eagles' Future
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is a central figure as the team gears up. "One year after landing a then-record $255 million deal, and two years after going toe-to-toe with Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl, Hurts isn't going anywhere," noted Cody Benjamin. His performance in the new system introduced by offensive coordinator Kellen Moore could significantly influence the fate of head coach Nick Sirianni. Hurts' mercurial season last year led to Moore's arrival, hinting at a strategy shift for the Eagles.
Lineman with Olympic Pedigree
Across the league, the Buffalo Bills' defensive lineman, Gable Steveson, brings a gold medal pedigree. Josh Edwards highlighted Steveson's impressive achievements: "Steveson is the only gold medalist on this list. He won the medal in the 125kg weight class as part of the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics." Steveson's transition from a two-time national champion wrestler at Minnesota to the gridiron could spell trouble for opposing offenses.
Passions Beyond the Gridiron
Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Devin White has a fascinating off-field passion—horse riding. "Growing up in rural Louisiana, White learned to ride horses at an early age and has had a passion for it ever since," mentioned Edwards. White, who owns several horses and a property to house them, continues to channel his love for equestrian sports.
Thielen's Golfing Success
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen isn't just making headlines with his on-field exploits. Thielen has also tasted success in pro-am golf tournaments, recently finishing seventh at the American Century Championship. Edwards comments, "It is often the quarterbacks that find the most success playing golf, but Thielen is well-documented as being a great golfer. One report stated that his handicap is a 0.6."
Bucs' Super Bowl Strategy
Tom Brady's influence on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers extended beyond just his play on the field. His arrival attracted key free agents, contributing to the team's Super Bowl LV triumph. Interestingly, every point scored in that victory came from players who weren’t on the team the year before.
Challenges in Baltimore
The Baltimore Ravens face distinct challenges this season, especially with significant departures up front. "The Ravens seemingly always figure things out up front; but with Morgan Moses, Kevin Zeitler, and John Simpson leaving, and Ronnie Stanley both experiencing lingering effects of his knee issues and not playing at as high a level as he once did, there are a lot of balls up in the air," expressed Jared Dubin.
Bengals and Browns at a Crossroads
The Cincinnati Bengals have decided to move on from Joe Mixon, with Zack Moss expected to fill the void. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns are grappling with an underperforming Deshaun Watson. "Deshaun Watson hasn't been good since 2020. It is wholly unreasonable to count on him being good this year," Dubin states. The Browns' ability to maintain a winning record despite Watson's struggles remains in question.
Steelers' Receiving Corps Changes
The Pittsburgh Steelers face their own set of issues, particularly with the departure of Diontae Johnson, who was a primary target. The team is now relying on either a bounce-back year from Russell Wilson or significant progress from Justin Fields to fill the gap left by Johnson.
United Football League Draft Insights
The United Football League (UFL) recently held its 2024 College Draft, a momentous event featuring six quarterbacks being selected. Jason Bean was the first overall pick, followed by John Rhys Plumlee at number three. Two quarterbacks from the Colts, Jason Bean, and Kedon Slovis, secured new opportunities through the UFL draft.
As teams continue their preparations and fan excitement builds, these stories provide a glimpse into an eagerly awaited NFL season marked by new beginnings, unexpected transitions, and unwavering determination.