NFL training camps are just around the corner, which means battles for key roster spots are set to heat up around the league. Which positional competitions warrant the most attention as we move deeper into the summer?
Here are the top 14 battles to monitor:
The competition: Bo Nix vs. Zach Wilson vs. Jarrett Stidham
Nix is the widespread favorite to open 2024 as Denver’s top quarterback, with Sean Payton repeatedly citing the rookie’s experience and apparent NFL-readiness. Still, with so much riding on Payton’s choice, it’s worth repeating that Stidham has already played in his system and Wilson has been a full-timer before.
The competition: Russell Wilson vs. Justin Fields
Easily the most intriguing quarterback battle of the summer, this one may not be as close as initially expected, with Wilson’s savvy veteran touch appearing to make him a firm favorite for Mike Tomlin’s perpetual wild-card contender. Still, Fields’ athletic gifts could make themselves more apparent in the preseason.
The competition: Sam Darnold vs. J.J. McCarthy
Darnold is widely expected to open 2024 as the shepherd of Kevin O’Connell’s offense, primarily due to his NFL experience. And maybe Minnesota’s weaponry will help him rejuvenate his own prospects. McCarthy is the future, though, and his play-action potential could convince O’Connell to speed up his entry.
The competition: Curtis Samuel vs. Marquez Valdes-Scantling vs. Keon Coleman vs. Khalil Shakir
No longer deploying a bona fide No. 1 after Stefon Diggs’ exit, the Bills are instead set to lean on a plethora of chess pieces. Samuel and Shakir are prime candidates to man the slot, with Valdes-Scantling serving as the outside deep threat and Coleman using his jump-ball skills in the red area.
The competition: Josh Palmer vs. Quentin Johnston vs. Ladd McConkey vs. D.J. Chark Jr.
It’s no wonder new coach Jim Harbaugh invested in the trenches and run game,…
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Author : Cody Benjamin
Publish date : 2024-07-12 12:37:50
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