NFL Minicamps 2025: Key Storylines and Player Battles

The second week of NFL minicamps is underway, with 30 teams gathering for crucial workouts. This period offers a glimpse into how teams are shaping up ahead of the 2025 season. Here are the key storylines and player battles to watch:

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

• Left Guard Battle: With Patrick Mekari gone, Ben Cleveland and Andrew Vorhees are vying for the starting left guard position. Rookie Emery Jones Jr. could join the competition once he recovers from a shoulder injury.

Cincinnati Bengals

• Trey Hendrickson's Attendance: The Bengals plan to fine players who skip minicamp. Hendrickson's situation could linger into training camp.

Cleveland Browns

• Quarterback Competition: Veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are splitting first-team reps, but rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are also in the mix.

Pittsburgh Steelers

• T.J. Watt's Contract Negotiations: Watt's attendance at minicamp will be a key indicator of his contract status.

AFC South

Houston Texans

• C.J. Stroud's Shoulder: Coach DeMeco Ryan has no concerns about Stroud's sore shoulder, but it would be beneficial to see him throw in minicamp.

Indianapolis Colts

• Anthony Richardson's Injury: With Richardson sidelined, Daniel Jones has the opportunity to solidify his position as the starting quarterback.

Jacksonville Jaguars

• Travis Hunter's Role: Hunter has been impressive at cornerback during closed workouts, but his role remains to be seen.

Tennessee Titans

• Quarterback Reps: Cameron Ward and Will Levis are competing for the starting job, with Ward showing early signs of progress.

AFC West

Denver Broncos

• Running Back Rotation: Second-round rookie RJ Harvey is getting a long look as a potential every-down back.

Kansas City Chiefs

• Josh Simmons' Recovery: Simmons, recovering from a torn patellar tendon, could be the solution at left tackle if he's ready to play.

Las Vegas Raiders

• Cornerback Competition: Rookie Darien Porter and Eric Stokes are getting first-team reps in a wide-open competition.

Los Angeles Chargers

• Offensive Line: The starting left guard and center positions are up for grabs, with Zion Johnson and Trey Pipkins III in the mix.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys

• Micah Parsons' Contract: Parsons is expected at minicamp but may not do on-field work as he awaits a lucrative extension.

New York Giants

• Quarterback Competition: Jaxson Dart, Russell Wilson, and Jameis Winston are all getting reps as the Giants evaluate their options.

Philadelphia Eagles

• Defensive Rebuild: The Eagles are integrating new players and rookies into their defense after losing several key contributors.

Washington Commanders

• Marshon Lattimore's Health: Lattimore's performance will be crucial for the Commanders' defense.

NFC North

Chicago Bears

• Minicamp Recap: The Bears held their minicamp last week.

Detroit Lions

• Cancelled Minicamp: The Lions cancelled their scheduled minicamp.

Green Bay Packers

• Jaire Alexander's Contract: Alexander is expected at minicamp, but his participation is uncertain due to contract negotiations.

Minnesota Vikings

• J.J. McCarthy's Progress: McCarthy has taken all first-team reps and is looking to solidify his position as the starter.

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons

• Kirk Cousins' Attendance: Cousins' presence at minicamp will be crucial as he seeks a starting role.

Carolina Panthers

• Tetairoa McMillan's Impact: The first-round pick could elevate the Panthers' offense.

New Orleans Saints

• Quarterback Battle: Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough are competing for the starting job.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Chris Godwin's Recovery: Godwin's participation will be closely watched as he recovers from a dislocated ankle.

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals

• Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr.'s Chemistry: The duo has been working on their timing and execution.

Los Angeles Rams

• Kyren Williams' Contract Extension: The Rams are looking to secure a long-term deal with Williams.

San Francisco 49ers

• Defensive Rebuild: The 49ers are integrating new players and rookies into their defense under coordinator Robert Saleh.

Seattle Seahawks

• Sam Darnold's Performance: Darnold is the clear starter, and his ability to adapt to the new scheme will be key.

Stay tuned for more updates as the NFL minicamps continue to unfold.