Every NFL Team's Biggest Training-Camp Revelation Thus Far
Training camp is an exciting time for NFL fans and franchises. The optimism surrounding this period is unrivaled, as positive news flows from countless sources.
This leads to training-camp revelations for every team.
Some of these storylines will continue their momentum into the regular season. Whether it be a young player's emergence or a veteran coming back from a down year, teams rely on these training-camp difference-makers to make a regular-season impact.
The salary-cap era reality is that cheap players must come through for a team to win.
After combing through all of the training-camp news from the last week, we’ve identified the biggest revelation for each franchise thus far. Not all of them will be on the same scale, but they could be much more meaningful after the season begins.
Arizona Cardinals: The Offensive Line Is Solidifying
1 of 32
The Arizona Cardinals knew that the offensive line was a position that needed more help. By adding rookie D.J. Humphries via the draft and re-signing Lyle Sendlein, Arizona has more depth and talent than ever before. This is a playoff-caliber line now.
According to Darren Urban of AZCardinals.com, Sendlein's return will help build depth, if not give the team another starter.
“He’ll be light-years ahead of anyone else who would have come in off the street and has played and is well-respected in the locker room,” Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians commented. “It’ll be healthy competition.”
Whether Sendlein starts or is a backup, Arizona is more prepared for however camp plays out. That’s the type of depth the Cardinals need for a deep playoff run.
Atlanta Falcons: The Tight Ends Are Ready to Contribute
2 of 32
The Atlanta Falcons offense will likely be more balanced in 2015 than what we’ve seen in previous seasons. That’s a direct result of adding Kyle Shanahan as offensive coordinator. It’s also the fallout of weapons around Matt Ryan declining.
The tight end position was very weak in 2014. That must change. So far in training camp, the young tight ends are showing some growth. Andrew Hirsh of AtlantaFalcons.com noted Levine Toilolo, 24, had a solid day of camp last Monday:
"Levine Toilolo is having his best day of camp - by far. Blocking well and making tough catches over the middle.
— Andrew Hirsh (@andrewhirsh) August 3, 2015"
Toilolo is just one of three tight ends fighting for the starting job this year along with Jacob Tamme and Tony Moeaki. None have a strong pedigree, but Shanahan’s system will help get them opportunities to make big plays. So far, Toilolo is the man stepping up.
Baltimore Ravens: The Running Backs Are Primed to Produce
3 of 32
Working behind one of football's best offensive lines, the Baltimore Ravens’ running attack was re-energized when Justin Forsett emerged in 2014 with 1,266 yards on the ground. Forsett’s fit with the Ravens is an excellent one, and that relationship should continue to be beneficial for each party.
Now, the backups are playing to a high level.
According to Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun, the Ravens’ tailbacks have had a very strong training camp so far:
"Justin Forsett has looked quick and decisive. Lorenzo Taliaferro is leaner and faster. Rookie Buck Allen makes seemingly one jaw-dropping cut per practice. Fitzgerald Toussaint, who was active for two regular-season games last year, has been the forgotten man in the running back picture.
But he broke several big runs at practice, finding a hole and popping through it. He still faces an uphill battle in making the team, but he has had a solid camp.
"
It’s not a bad thing to have multiple backs who are capable playmakers. Young backs such as Taliaferro, 23, and Javorius Allen, 23, providing a solid presence is great for the Ravens’ depth.
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
Buffalo Bills: Tyrod Taylor Is a Legitimate Threat to Start
4 of 32
As the Buffalo Bills continue to work through training camp, their quarterback battle has been disheartening. There has yet to be a standout performer, leaving the door open for third-stringer Tyrod Taylor.
According to Rotoworld, WKBW Buffalo’s Joe Buscaglia thinks Taylor is a legitimate threat to take the starting job: "While Matt Cassel has continued to struggle, E.J. Manuel has run hot and cold, and Taylor has flashed big-play ability with both his arm and legs. ... Buscaglia considers the 'two leading candidates' for Buffalo's QB opening to be Cassel and Taylor."
Although Taylor hasn’t proven much in his career so far, he at least has the athleticism to create on third down. That’s more than EJ Manuel and Cassel can do.
Taylor has more upside than each, since he at least has the chance to be average.
Carolina Panthers: Devin Funchess Is on the Verge of Breaking Out
5 of 32
The Carolina Panthers are hoping that their 2015 second-round pick, Devin Funchess, will have as successful of a rookie season as their 2014 first-round pick, Kelvin Benjamin, did. By pairing Funchess (6'4" 225) with Benjamin (6'5", 245 lbs), the Panthers have some of the largest starting receivers in the NFL. That’s good news for quarterback Cam Newton.
Not only is Funchess big, but he’s also smooth and fast as well. According to Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer, Panthers head coach Ron Rivera felt Funchess was a steal in the draft.
“He was a guy we had rated in the first round,” coach Ron Rivera said then. “He was a guy that’s going to bring something different to the table in terms of big catch radius, big size, a little bit more speed.”
Funchess has all but cemented his starting job within the first two weeks of training camp. Expect Newton, who still aims high when passing, to enjoy his large receiving targets. Funchess could be in store for an excellent rookie campaign.
Chicago Bears: The Defense Is Deeper and More Dangerous
6 of 32
After adding a new coaching staff and numerous free agents this past offseason, there’s reason for hope that the Chicago Bears will be ready to compete for the playoffs in 2015. After adding veteran experience, the Bears now have built depth through the draft that can be developed. One young player who is ready to contribute right now is 24-year-old linebacker Christian Jones.
According to Bob LeGere of the Daily Herald, Jones is really impressing the new coaching staff. Coach John Fox said of the 6'3", 240-pound Jones:
"He's athletic, he's got size, he's got length, and he cares about it. He does compete, so if a guy does that it really doesn't matter what round he came from.
(Jones) is ultracompetitive, and that's kind of the difference maker in choosing your team and choosing football players.
"
Jones has great versatility with his size and speed. His ability to be an impact linebacker has yet to be proven, but the Bears defense would be greatly helped if he’s able to land a starting job.
Cincinnati Bengals: It’s Tyler Eifert’s Time to Excel
7 of 32
The Cincinnati Bengals are hoping to see more of a return on their 2013 first-round investment, tight end Tyler Eifert. Injuries and a slow development period for Eifert have led to two poor seasons thus far. But that is turning around as 2015 nears.
According to Coley Harvey of ESPN.com, Eifert is looking much healthier. In turn, he’s been a standout performer.
"Routinely, Eifert had enough time in the non-padded practice to turn, find the ball, catch it, look around to see if he was about to take contact, sprint upfield, gain 10 yards and still have no defender come close to reaching out and touching him."
Cincinnati must hope that Eifert continues in his development. Outside of star wideout A.J. Green, the Bengals lack a stellar receiving option for quarterback Andy Dalton. Eifert may be the right second option with steady health and output.
Cleveland Browns: Pierre Desir Is Emerging as a Potential Stud
8 of 32
The bad news for the Cleveland Browns is that 2014 first-round pick Justin Gilbert continues to struggle. The positive news is fourth-round cornerback Pierre Desir is playing up to the level that the team expected of Gilbert. Desir was better as a rookie, and his training camp has been strong as well.
According to Tom Reed of Northeast Ohio Media Group, Desir is thriving: "'He's doing what he's supposed to do,' safety Donte Whitner said. 'He was here every day in the offseason working as hard as he possibly can.'" The 2014 fourth-round draft pick embodies the play-no-favorites philosophy coach Mike Pettine and his staff introduced a year ago."
Desir has elite size (6'2", 206 lbs) and great instincts for the cornerback position. His transition from Lindenwood to the NFL understandably took some time, but he is coming into his own. The Browns may have missed on Gilbert, but if Desir continues to play well, he’ll make the Gilbert pick look a little less bad.
Dallas Cowboys: Cole Beasley Is Primed for a Huge Season
9 of 32
The benefit of having a strong running game and a premier receiver on the roster is that everything gets easier for role players. Dallas executed this well in 2014, as defenses were concerned with the now-departed DeMarco Murray and current star receiver Dez Bryant.
That left everyone else in single coverage.
Slot receiver Cole Beasley is one beneficiary of the focus on Bryant. Beasley is small (5'8", 180 lbs), and he’s been undervalued throughout his career. But he has proved to be talented and has seen 127 targets in three years with Dallas. The Cowboys will surely target him often again in 2015.
According to Dawn Macelli of Blogging the Boys, Beasley can make the most of his opportunities: "The 'it' factor is what makes Cole the perfect player for [head coach Jason] Garrett's vision of what his team is supposed to be. He refuses to allow his limitations to impact his role on the team, and he cashes in on every opportunity that comes his way."
Beasley’s production will continue to rise if the Cowboys are effective on the ground behind running back Joseph Randle. Even if his numbers don’t climb, he will still be a reliable target for QB Tony Romo.
Denver Broncos: Linebacker Brandon Marshall Is Excelling
10 of 32
There has been a lot of attention given to the Denver Broncos offense this offseason. That’s justifiable since there has been significant turnover on that side of the ball and questions surrounding how well quarterback Peyton Manning will fare at 39 years old.
But the defense will be heavily scrutinized if the unit cannot slow down its opposition.
According to Andrew Mason of DenverBroncos.com, inside linebacker Brandon Marshall is picking up the new scheme quickly:
"It's only taken three practices and a slow-but-steady increase in team-period workload for Marshall to begin looking like the dominant run defender he was at weakside linebacker last year.
Moving inside in the 3-4 alignment does not appear to have affected his potential for production. Although he must navigate through a thicket of linemen, he's still filling holes and engulfing running backs or forcing them to bounce around in search of another hole.
"
This is huge news for the Broncos defense, as Marshall is a key cog. His health and comfort within the 3-4 system are among this team's biggest training-camp storylines.
Detroit Lions: Eric Ebron Is Finding His Groove
11 of 32
After a somewhat disappointing rookie season from their 2014 first-round pick, the Detroit Lions are hoping that tight end Eric Ebron will emerge in 2015. His rookie film was littered with major flashes of stardom because of his athleticism.
Now it’s up to Ebron to build off that and be more consistent.
The early feedback has been positive. According to RealGM’s Jeff Risdon, Ebron has been showing development in camp. That's good, because finishing at the catch point was a real issue in 2014. He got to the ball decently but then misplayed it when he got it. Risdon highlighted Ebron as a standout player during the Lions' training camp:
"As I reflect back on #lionscamp last night, two guys stood out: Eric Ebron and Darius Slay. Both looked very, very good.
— Jeff Risdon (@JeffRisdon) August 6, 2015"
Ebron must be on his game for the Lions to excel on offense. Detroit has two excellent receivers in Golden Tate and Calvin Johnson. But Ebron would be an excellent third option who would see a lot of easy one-on-one targets.
Green Bay Packers: Backup Running Backs Are Looking Good
12 of 32
The Green Bay Packers have already started filling up the injury list despite not playing a game yet. For some reason, this franchise cannot escape the injury bug. Its running back depth is already being tested with two players missing time, including undrafted free agent John Crockett.
According to Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, one backup is standing out above the rest, and offensive coordinator Edgar Bennett agreed:
"Taking full advantage of the cornucopia of practice reps has been Rajion Neal, the second-year free agent from Tennessee. "He has flashed," offensive coordinator Edgar Bennett said. "Making some really good reads. Running behind his pads. You see him finishing down the field. He's not a small guy (5-11, 218). He has size and certainly good feet."
"
Neal’s emergence may not yield immediate returns for the Packers, but his depth is needed. If Eddie Lacy is lost for any amount of time this season, Green Bay will likely rely on a stable of backs. Neal may be cementing himself as the team's second or third option out of the backfield.
Houston Texans: The Middle of the Defense Is Solidifying
13 of 32
Injuries are a part of any sport. As unfortunate as they are, the best teams are able to overcome them and have the “next man up” attitude. The Houston Texans thus far are benefitting from their next-man-up's performance at the linebacker position.
Akeem Dent's absence has allowed rookie Benardrick McKinney to fill his place. According to Patrick Starr of Scout.com, he could work well within the defense:
"Benardrick McKinney has benefited from the absence of Akeem Dent, who is coming back from an injury. With some limitations in coverage, which was expected, McKinney is a downhill player who is not afraid of contact.
He is a tall inside player who can move and McKinney has shown he is not afraid to mix it up. He is working well next to Brian Cushing and is a nice complement when they work next to each other on defense.
"
McKinney figures to be the best long-term starter next to Cushing. The fact that he’s already jelling with the first team is an excellent sign. His downhill, in-the-box style will be exactly what the Texans lacked in previous years from the position.
Indianapolis Colts: Phillip Dorsett Is Showing Star Qualities
14 of 32
When the Indianapolis Colts selected Phillip Dorsett in the first round of the 2015 draft, the first thought that came to mind was T.Y. Hilton’s future with the team was likely coming to an end. Well, that’s probably not the case. Instead, Dorsett figures to complement Hilton as the Colts look to build the NFL's best offense.
Dorsett’s skill set really sells itself. He’s extremely fast, has good hands and is an underrated route-runner. The draft process boosted his stock by at least two rounds because he showed much more talent than what his role in college allowed him to display.
Now he is rewarding the Colts.
According to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport on the Around the NFL podcast (via colleague Chris Wesseling), the Colts feel Dorsett will be a star:
""They could not be higher on Phillip Dorsett," added Rapoport, who was onsite in Anderson, Indiana, on Tuesday. "I think they think they added a superstar." When Rapoport asked a Colts coach if he was surprised they didn't address a porous defense with their top draft pick, the response was, "Well, no. This guy's that good."
"
We will see if Dorsett was worth passing over more important needs. So far, it does seem promising that he will have an active role early in his career.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Rookie Cornerback Nick Marshall Is Impressing
15 of 32
When Nick Marshall decided to move to cornerback from quarterback prior to the 2015 Senior Bowl, the position change was somewhat surprising. Marshall may have been unlikely to be drafted as a quarterback, but he showed skill as a passer throughout his career at Auburn.
The move was a bold attempt to extend his NFL career.
So far, the position change seems like it is working out. According to the Associated Press (via FoxSports.com), Marshall is gaining ground in his effort to make the Jacksonville Jaguars’ final roster.
Jaguars coach Gus Bradley said of Marshall: "Great poise, really strong competitor, and his speed and instincts are really showing up. I really like him now. I think he's got a chance. ... The thing with him is it's not too big. He doesn't care who he's lining up against."
Marshall’s confidence isn’t a new development, as he routinely showed poise as a quarterback for a high-profile school. His instincts at cornerback are new, though, and they will be the difference in Marshall's succeeding or not at the position.
Kansas City Chiefs: Eric Berry Is Back
16 of 32Sometimes football needs to take a back seat to real-life milestones. Safety Eric Berry not only is recovering from cancer, but he's also playing again.
He is an inspiration to the community and the Kansas City Chiefs.
On the field, Berry’s presence could make Andy Reid's defense elite. The Chiefs bolstered the cornerback position in the draft with Marcus Peters in the first round, a pick which will give them one of the league's best young units.
But having an elite safety to help is enormous.
According to Terez Paylor of the Kansas City Star, Berry is back to his playmaking ways already. He logged an interception in his first week of training camp.
Miami Dolphins: The Rebuilt Receiver Corps Has Looked Great
17 of 32
The Miami Dolphins ditched their high-priced, limited receiving core from 2014 to go younger and become more diversified. This was a wise move, as the former group lacked consistency and creativity outside of its one trick. The early buzz from training camp is that Miami's receivers are looking great.
According to Andrew Abramson of the Palm Beach Post, Jarvis Landry is standing out in particular:
"Landry, who led the team with 84 receptions last year, made another impressive one-handed grab during 11-on-11s. Throughout the practice, he caught nearly everything that came his way.
After playing almost exclusively in the slot last year, Landry is getting some looks outside. And he expects to see action there in the regular season.
"
Landry is likely to be the Dolphins’ leading receiver in 2015. But he is just the tip of the iceberg for a unit featuring Kenny Stills, Greg Jennings, DeVante Parker and tight end Jordan Cameron. This unit seems primed for a great season.
Minnesota Vikings: Charles Johnson Has Continued to Develop
18 of 32
Instead of adding a significant amount of talent to the offense this past offseason, the Minnesota Vikings opted to address the defense with their resources (as evidenced by their first-round pick, corner Trae Waynes).
Minnesota's getting back runner Adrian Peterson, which is huge, and its taking a flier on receiver Mike Wallace could prove wise as well. But second-year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will need more help than those two.
One potential breakout player is wideout Charles Johnson. The physical specimen (6'2", 217) has bounced around the league until he landed in Minnesota in 2014.
According to Jackson McIntire of Daily Norseman, he’s continued his development: "Charles Johnson also much more physical at catch point. Actually catching contested passes this year. Also running better routes. His feet are much quicker, and he is more explosive out of his cuts."
If Johnson can become a quality No. 2 or even a low-end No. 1 playmaker, then the Vikings’ outlook will continue to get brighter. Bridgewater will need reliable weapons to emerge this season. Johnson has the potential to be an excellent outside threat for him.
New England Patriots: Brandon Bolden Could Be Opening-Day Starter
19 of 32
The New England Patriots have been able to create a highly productive committee of running backs over the last decade-and-a-half. It doesn’t matter who they put back there, even nondescript runners have proven capable behind quarterback Tom Brady.
Brandon Bolden may be the latest in that line.
Bolden hasn’t played much in his first three seasons (139 total carries), but that won’t stop the Patriots from featuring him. According to Paul Perillo of Patriots Football Weekly (via Patriots.com), Bolden is seizing his opportunity:
"Injuries to the running backs have put Bolden is position to get more reps and the veteran seems to be capitalizing. He had the ball in his hands on the first two plays of 11-on-11 work with Tom Brady and the offense, ripping off a nice run off right tackle before catching a short pass and shooting upfield for positive yards on the next play.
Bolden could very well be the every-down back in the opener with LeGarrette Blount suspended.
"
With Blount slated to miss the season opener, the door is open for Bolden to grasp the job and never let go. New England will play the best back without worrying about credentials. The team's uncovering a contributor in Bolden would just continue the trend of finding production in unexpected places.
New Orleans Saints: Brandon Browner’s Leadership Is Providing Extra Value
20 of 32
For the New Orleans Saints to get back to the playoffs in 2015, their defense must bounce back from a horrific 2014 campaign. One player who will help support this effort is veteran cornerback Brandon Browner. The two-time Super Bowl champion has been leading by example thus far.
According to John DeShazier of NewOrleansSaints.com, Browner is playing well and helping his peers:
"Browner’s leadership skills have been on display. When he isn’t tutoring the Saints’ young cornerbacks or working with [Keenan] Lewis as the two seek ways to fine-tune their skills, he has been the consummate I’m-no-better-than-you teammate. He’s lining up on special teams as a blocker for gunners, a duty that he probably could beg off if he wanted to.
"
Although Browner’s leadership was never noted in previous stops, he is clearly shining here. The Saints must play with camaraderie and precision. Browner is working to elevate himself and his teammates.
New York Giants: The Wide Receiver Depth Is Impressive
21 of 32
It’s a huge season for the New York Giants. Tom Coughlin and Eli Manning's futures with the club aren’t guaranteed, and the team has missed the playoffs three consecutive seasons. The Giants must win this year or change is coming.
With the defense looking average at best on paper, it’s up to the offense to carry the team. The good news is the receiver position is loaded with talent. According to Ed Valentine of Big Blue Review, Manning will have several solid playmakers:
"There are four players who have locks on wide receiver roster spots. Those are Odell Beckham Jr., Victor Cruz, Rueben Randle and Dwayne Harris. The Giants will most likely keep six wide receivers -- which leaves Preston Parker, James Jones, Corey Washington and Geremy Davis fighting for two roster spots.
How the Giants sort out who gets those two spots in anybody's guess. You can make a solid case for each player.
"
The Giants have had injury issues throughout their roster over the last few years, but adding more quality depth is wise. Getting help from young players is an enormous asset, especially considering the lack of free- agent assistance.
New York Jets: Leonard Williams Is Showing Out
22 of 32
When the New York Jets selected defensive end Leonard Williams sixth overall in this year's draft, there were some questions about where he’d fit in right away. After Sheldon Richardson got himself suspended, Williams’ role became clear: he's got to seize the starting role.
According to Jets head coach Todd Bowles, via Randy Lange of NewYorkJets.com, he’s looking the part early on.
"He’s explosive, I mean, we all knew that. But it’s more than that playing down there. You have to read blocks, you have to understand double teams and you have to sacrifice sometimes, so it’s not all about him being the playmaker. Sometimes you have to be the sacrificial lamb. But Leonard is doing a good job. He runs around, he has a good football mind, and he’s picking up the defense well.
"
This is big news for the Jets. Since New York lacks a solid edge presence, it’s huge for the ends to be disruptive. The pairing of Williams and Muhammad Wilkerson can be as good as any.
Oakland Raiders: Amari Cooper Has Quickly Established Himself
23 of 32It shouldn’t be surprising that the early buzz on receiver Amari Cooper has been overwhelmingly good, according to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport. The Oakland Raiders’ first-round pick is as polished as a receiver can be entering the NFL. His explosiveness and quickness will be huge boosts for this offense in 2015.
Bleacher Report’s Chris Simms visited the Raiders and had some strong remarks about how well Cooper is playing so far in the video above.
It is unlikely Cooper performs as well as Odell Beckham Jr. did as a rookie in 2014, but he is showing why he was worth a top-five pick. His refined route-running and plus athleticism make him very difficult to cover. Watch for quarterback Derek Carr to target him early and often this year.
Philadelphia Eagles: Sam Bradford Is Looking Sharp
24 of 32
The Philadelphia Eagles have a deep, talented roster, but they will only go as far as quarterback Sam Bradford can take them. The Eagles acquired Bradford because of his natural passing talent and accuracy, and if he’s healthy, there will be zero quarterback competition.
That’s the big if when it comes to his outlook, though. His talent is good enough to become a franchise quarterback, but one team already gave up on him because of his unreliability.
But according to Geoff Mosher of CSNPhilly.com, Bradford is delivering so far:
"After wowing teammates with accuracy and huddle command Friday, I thought Sam Bradford needed to bounce back with another stellar practice. Consistency is the key.
Bradford responded with another good session. The Eagles worked mainly on short stuff and crossing routes so Bradford’s downfield looks were limited, but his passes were crisp and efficient. In the first set of 7-on-7s, with all four quarterbacks rotating after one rep through four rounds, Bradford didn’t have any of his attempts hit the ground.
"
This is great news for the Eagles. Head coach Chip Kelly is able to elevate his players’ effectiveness through his scheme and coaching. But winning in the playoffs takes significant talent on top of great coaching.
Bradford is showing that he is ready to prove he is talented enough to lead this team to a deep playoff run.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Brandon Boykin Trade Is Paying Off
25 of 32
Finding quality cornerbacks is not a cheap—or easy—task in the NFL. At least, it isn’t supposed to be. The Pittsburgh Steelers fleeced the Philadelphia Eagles via a trade for one in Brandon Boykin.
Boykin is in the final year of his deal and has been a slot specialist throughout his career. But for a conditional fifth-round pick, the Steelers added their new No. 1 cornerback. He quickly showed that he is simply better than anyone else the Steelers have.
Optimum Scouting's Eric Galko considers Boykin a key addition:
"1. Boykin was best #Steelers outside/nickel CB. Closed easily, timed breaks well,finished underneath at catch point. Starter by end of camp?
— Eric Galko (@OptimumScouting) August 3, 2015"
Boykin’s ability to play outside has yet to be seen in the regular season, but he fits with what the Steelers defense is transitioning to. His value will greatly increase if he plays well outside. If training camp is any indicator, he should do quite well for himself.
San Diego Chargers: The Right Side of the Line Is Shaping Up
26 of 32
There was speculation all offseason that the San Diego Chargers might move D.J. Fluker from tackle to guard. Now, the shift can happen, as San Diego found a legitimate right tackle to replace Fluker in Joe Barksdale.
Bolts From The Blue agreed with the position change:
"Fluker at guard and Barksdale at tackle, even with a healthy Troutman. IT’S ACTUALLY HAPPENING!!
— Bolts From The Blue (@BFTB_Chargers) August 8, 2015"
The Chargers are now able to play their five best linemen at the same time. Barksdale is a solid run-blocker at right tackle. Moving Fluker to guard gives the Chargers another powerful run-blocker on the right side and should hide Fluker’s average pass-protection talent.
Expect the Chargers’ running game to see a drastic improvement by this move alone. San Diego significantly upgraded its run blocking in one fell swoop.
San Francisco 49ers: Depth Is Paying Off
27 of 32
Aldon Smith release was another blow in an offseason of nightmares for the San Francisco 49ers. It’s unprecedented how much experience and talent this team has lost (Patrick Willis, Aldon and Justin Smith, Chris Borland, among others). Now it is time to see how well the franchise has drafted over the last few years.
The early returns in training camp have been good. According to David Fucillo of Niners Nation, the young core of edge-rushers has shown promise:
"Corey Lemonier got the bulk of the work at Aldon Smith's former right outside linebacker position. Ahmad Brooks and Eli Harold got some snaps there as well, but Lemonier held it down for now.
Considering Aaron Lynch is still working back into shape from his offseason hamstring injury, it makes sense for Lemonier to get the first team work. He has two years under his belt, while Harold is still figuring out the team's defense. Harold is viewed primarily as a pass rusher.
"
These guys are young, with the exception of the 31-year-old Brooks. That means there will be growing pains. But, it means there is a chance that one of these young rushers could break out in a massive way.
Seattle Seahawks: Rookie Tyler Lockett Carving Out Role
28 of 32
The Seattle Seahawks have tried to find impact players at wide receiver the last few years, but they may have finally hit gold this season. The addition of tight end Jimmy Graham will surely be a major positive. But don’t sleep on the rookie receiver Tyler Lockett, as he’s showing his polish and explosiveness so far.
According to Stephen Cohen of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Lockett’s play has greatly impressed offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell.
“He’s going to be able to play in the slot,” the coach said. “He makes big plays. He’s got great quickness, he’s got great speed, he’s can make people miss. It’s something that quickly—after watching him the first day—it’s like, ‘Oh yeah. This guy’s not just a kick returner. He’s going to be able to play wideout.'”
That is somewhat of an odd quote from Bevell, as Lockett was a tremendous receiver at Kansas State. Nevertheless, Lockett has forced Bevell to notice his talent. That’s great news as the Seahawks could use some more speed in the slot.
St. Louis Rams: The Secondary Is Playing Better
29 of 32
The St. Louis Rams have done their best to address the major weaknesses that caused their subpar 2014 season. The resources spent on the offensive line, quarterback and running back may end up changing the franchise's future.
In the meantime, the defense has to do its part.
Throughout 2014 there were way too many breakdowns in the secondary for this unit to be good enough. The mistakes made at both cornerback and safety aren’t acceptable. But, according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner, there is hope that the secondary is improving:
"It's been a strong camp so far for cornerbacks Janoris Jenkins and Marcus Roberson and safety Rodney McLeod. McLeod looks particularly instinctive and hasn't been caught out of position at all from what I've seen. That's a good sign after he vowed that he wanted to cut down on the mistakes that led to big plays last season.
"
Jenkins and McLeod were responsible for major coverage gaffes in 2014. Each has the physical talent to be much better. Their training-camp start is proving there is reason to hope that this unit will be improved in 2015.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ali Marpet Is All Caught Up
30 of 32
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers nabbed a second-round steal in guard Ali Marpet during this year's draft. With his arrival from Hobart College, there was understandably a bit of a learning curve. But one week into training camp, Marpet is already running with the first team.
According to Scott Smith of Buccaneers.com, Marpet is feeling comfortable now after just a few days of practice.
"I think it was a smooth transition," he said. "I know moving forward we're still going to be rotating at right guard and I know the position is up for grabs, but it was a smooth transition to start with the twos and then finally getting reps with the ones today.”
Having Marpet ready for the regular season would be an enormous boost for the Buccaneers offense. Tampa Bay’s defense may not be able to stop opponents often, so the Jameis Winston and the offense must be able to win shootouts. A stud right guard will go a long way in that effort.
Tennessee Titans: Marcus Mariota Has Been Sharp
31 of 32
Much has been made about Marcus Mariota’s consecutive interceptionless practice streak. The reality is that it means very little in the grand scheme of things, as Tennessee is likely bringing Mariota along slowly to help his transition to the NFL.
But news of his general sharpness and accuracy is something you want to hear.
There were questions about whether Mariota could throw into tight passing windows through the draft process. According to Jim Wyatt of TitansOnline.com, that hasn’t been an issue at all so far.
"Later in practice, he connected with receiver Harry Douglas for a touchdown in a period near the goal line. On the day, Mariota completed 12-of-21 passes without an interception. He’s now thrown 140 passes in 7-on-7 drills and team drills combined in eight training camp practices without an interception.
Mariota has dodged a few bullets along the way, but there’s no disputing he’s off to a great start in training camp.
"
The important thing for Mariota is that he is testing the defense and showing leadership traits. By practicing well and working hard off the field, Mariota is setting himself up for a promising rookie season.
Washington Redskins: Jordan Reed Keeps Making Plays
32 of 32
The Washington Redskins need quarterback Robert Griffin III to show that he is ready to be a franchise player. After the team added talent to the offensive line, there aren’t any excuses remaining for Griffin. His deep group of playmakers should make his job easier.
Tight end Jordan Reed will be a valuable pass-catcher for the quarterback. According to Rich Tandler of RealRedskins.com, Reed has been very impressive thus far in camp:
"He put a nice double move on Duke Ihenacho during one-on-one coverage drills. The safety stayed close, though, and Reed had to turn around and make the grab in the end zone. Kirk Cousins’ pass was about the only place it could have been. He has done something impressive almost every day of camp.
"
Health is the obvious concern surrounding Reed, as he's appeared in 20 of a possible 32 games in two years. If he’s on the field, expect him to post solid numbers and be an outlet for Griffin.
If Reed gets hurt at any point this year, then more pressure will be on the run game to perform. But if Reed can continue building the momentum he’s creating in camp, he could be the key for the Redskins’ resurgence.
All stats used are from Sports-Reference.com.
Ian Wharton is an NFL featured columnist for Bleacher Report.
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
.png?w=480)
.jpg?w=600 "Post-June 1 Trade Candidates ☎️")
.JPG?w=600 "TO Talks Cowboys Relationship")
.jpg?w=600 "Taylor Heinicke Retiring")
.jpg?w=600 "49ers OC Hypes Mike Evans 🤩")