The NFL's preseason kicked off with much anticipation Thursday night, setting the stage for the upcoming season. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Game saw the Bears and Texans competing in Canton, Ohio, a fitting location given the league's storied history. This game is just the beginning, as teams ramp up with joint practices to refine their skills and strategies in preparation for the regular season.
Chargers Fortify Offensive Line
The Los Angeles Chargers have taken notable steps to strengthen their offensive front, boasting three former first-round picks: Rashawn Slater, Joe Alt, and Zion Johnson. Alongside these marquee players, Bradley Bozeman and Trey Pipkins occupy the remaining starting positions, providing a robust foundation for quarterback protection. Offering additional depth, Jamaree Salyer remains a valuable asset to the Chargers' offensive strategy.
Rams and Lions Strategize Defensive Upgrades
In an effort to revamp their relatively young defensive lineup, the Los Angeles Rams are integrating emerging stars Byron Young and Kobie Turner while also bringing in former Florida State teammates Jared Verse and Braden Fiske, selected in this year's NFL Draft.
Similarly, the Detroit Lions have made significant moves to bolster their cornerback roster, acquiring Carlton Davis via trade and signing Amik Robertson. Detroit's commitment to securing their defense is further evident with the drafting of promising talents Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Giants and Falcons Strengthen Receiving Corps
The New York Giants have added LSU's Malik Nabers to their wide receiver lineup, joining an already competitive group that includes Wan'Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Jalin Hyatt. On the other hand, the Atlanta Falcons aim to enhance their aerial attack by signing Darnell Mooney and trading for Rondale Moore.
Dolphins Restructure Secondary
The Miami Dolphins have signaled a new direction by parting ways with cornerback Xavien Howard. In response, they've signed free agent Kendall Fuller, who will join a secondary featuring Jalen Ramsey, Kader Kohou, Jordan Poyer, and Jevon Holland, providing both experience and youthful energy.
Cowboys and Patriots Offensive Moves
The Dallas Cowboys used their first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to select Oklahoma right tackle Tyler Guyton, addressing a key need after losing center Tyler Biadasz to free agency. To further solidify their line, the Cowboys have added Brock Hoffman and drafted Kansas State's Cooper Beebe.
The New England Patriots have quietly assembled a versatile wide receiver unit featuring Kendrick Bourne, Demario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker, providing multiple options for their passing game.
Cardinals and Colts Eye Defensive Improvements
The Arizona Cardinals are looking to their newly drafted secondary players, Max Melton and Garrett Williams, to make an immediate impact. They join a defensive backfield that includes Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, Elijah Jones, and Jaden Davis.
Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts are counting on their receiving corps, led by Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, and rookie Adonai Mitchell, to play a crucial role in their offensive strategy this season.
Minnesota Focuses on Pass Rush
The Minnesota Vikings have reinforced their pass rush by signing Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard and selecting Dallas Turner in the draft, indicating a clear commitment to pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
Cleveland and Seattle Strengthen Depth
After a season marred by injuries to key offensive tackles Jedrick Wills, Jack Conklin, and Dawand Jones, the Cleveland Browns are focused on building depth and resilience along their offensive line.
Over in the Pacific Northwest, the Seattle Seahawks made notable acquisitions in Dre'Mont Jones and Leonard Williams, while their defense was bolstered by the draft selection of Byron Murphy II.
Titans Aim to Improve Run-Blocking
Following a dismal performance in their running game, recording a league-worst 0.89 yards before contact last season, the Tennessee Titans are determined to strengthen their run-blocking efforts.
Team-Specific Notes
Tampa Bay will rely on cornerbacks Zyon McCollum and Jamel Dean to anchor their secondary. The Jacksonville Jaguars' receiving unit now boasts Christian Kirk, Gabe Davis, and Brian Thomas Jr. The Buffalo Bills feature an intriguing tight-end combo of first-round pick Dalton Kincaid and veteran Dawson Knox. Pittsburgh's defense has been elevated with the signing of Patrick Queen and the drafting of Payton Wilson.
The Cincinnati Bengals continue to develop their young cornerbacks, Cam Taylor-Britt and DJ Turner II. The Chicago Bears' wide receiver room is headlined by No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, alongside D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and veteran Keenan Allen. The New York Jets have strengthened their offensive line by signing Tyron Smith and trading for Morgan Moses, while also drafting Penn State offensive tackle Olu Fashanu. The Baltimore Ravens are in the midst of regrouping after losing Jadeveon Clowney and defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald.
The Houston Texans are counting on their wide receiver core, including Stefon Diggs, Nico Collins, and Tank Dell, to make significant contributions. Lastly, the Los Angeles Rams' cornerback duo of Tre'Davious White and Darious Williams will be pivotal to their defensive success.