Training Camps Kick Off: Key Storylines to Watch
As summer break concludes, the NFL landscape buzzes with anticipation as teams begin their training camps. The Houston Texans marked the commencement of their camp on a Wednesday, signaling the start of a crucial period for both rookies and veterans. Most of the league’s newcomers are slated to report this week, signaling the onset of a season filled with promise and uncertainty.
Spotlight on Hurts and the Eagles
One of the most compelling narratives centers around Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Despite securing a $255 million deal a year ago, Hurts' journey remains pivotal for the Eagles' future. Two years ago, Hurts fiercely contested against Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl, demonstrating his potential on the grand stage. Cody Benjamin emphasized Hurts' significance, saying, "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."
This season brings new dynamics, with Hurts playing a pivotal role in facilitating Kellen Moore's arrival as the Eagles' offensive coordinator. Benjamin added, "That starts with Hurts, whose more mercurial follow-up to 2022's breakout helped facilitate Kellen Moore's arrival as the new offensive coordinator. Hurts' trajectory in the new system could determine the fate of coach Nick Sirianni as well."
Off-Field Pursuits: Devin White and Adam Thielen
While players like Hurts are in the spotlight for their on-field exploits, some make headlines for their passions outside of football. Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Devin White is an avid horse rider, a passion he developed growing up in rural Louisiana. White’s love for horses is not just a pastime; it’s a significant part of his life. "Growing up in rural Louisiana, White learned to ride horses at an early age and has had a passion for it ever since," Josh Edwards noted. "There are multiple elements of equestrian, like dressage, cross country, jumping, etc. ... so White could focus on one discipline."
Similarly, Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen has made a name for himself in the world of pro-am golf tournaments. Recently, Thielen achieved an impressive seventh-place finish at the American Century Championship. According to Edwards, "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."
Gold Medalist Gable Steveson Joins the NFL
Another intriguing storyline involves Buffalo Bills defensive lineman Gable Steveson, an athlete who brings Olympic gold medal prestige to the NFL. Steveson clinched gold in the 125kg weight class at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics, a testament to his elite athleticism and determination. Steveson's transition from wrestling to football promises to inject unique physicality into the Bills' lineup. "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," Edwards highlighted. "Steveson was a two-time national champion wrestler at Minnesota and is now using his leverage exposure to deconstruct blocks in the NFL."
Challenges and Transitions
As every team prepares for the upcoming season, various challenges lie ahead. For the Baltimore Ravens, the departure of key players like Morgan Moses, Kevin Zeitler, and John Simpson presents a significant hurdle. Jared Dubin noted, "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."
The Cincinnati Bengals are also in a state of transition. Moving on from Joe Mixon, the Bengals are looking to Zack Moss to fill the void in the backfield. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns face uncertainty with Deshaun Watson, who hasn't performed at his best since 2020. Dubin observed, "The Bengals moved on from Joe Mixon and are looking to replace him with Zack Moss... There's a lot of uncertainty there. Deshaun Watson hasn't been good since 2020. It is wholly unreasonable to count on him being good this year. Can the Browns keep winning if he keeps disappointing?"
In Pittsburgh, the Steelers confront their own set of challenges following the loss of Diontae Johnson, who was pivotal in their passing game. Dubin added, "The Steelers both no longer have Diontae Johnson to soak up targets, and are counting on either a Russell Wilson bounce-back or Justin Fields taking a significant step."
Draft Day Insights
Amidst the NFL's intricacies, the United Football League (UFL) held its 2024 College Draft, underscoring the intertwined nature of professional football levels. Conducted on a Wednesday, the draft saw six quarterbacks selected, with Jason Bean and John Rhys Plumlee among the top picks. Notably, two Colts quarterbacks, Jason Bean, and Kedon Slovis found new homes through the UFL draft.
The NFL continues to evolve with each season, bringing both excitement and uncertainty. As teams kick off their training camps, the narrative for each franchise begins to unfold, offering fans a glimpse of what lies ahead.