NFL teams begin training camp with roster changes and key storylines ahead of 2026 season
All 32 NFL clubs opened summer workouts, focusing on new coaching schemes, quarterback battles and roster cuts as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.
Training camps opened across the league as teams finalize 53-man rosters and address offseason turnover. The Seattle Seahawks were the first to report rookies on July 17, while the New England Patriots will host the defending champion Seahawks in the season opener on Sept. 9.
Defensive overhauls dominate several AFC teams: the Buffalo Bills will shift to a 3-4 base under new coordinator Jim Leonhard, and the Baltimore Ravens hope new head coach Jesse Minter can guide quarterback Lamar Jackson deeper into the playoffs. In the AFC North, the Cincinnati Bengals aim to improve effort under second-year coordinator Al Golden after a weak defensive showing last season.
Quarterback competitions are prominent in the AFC South and West. The Houston Texans look to sustain a strong defense while boosting offensive production, and the Indianapolis Colts monitor Daniel Jones' recovery from a torn Achilles. The Denver Broncos assess quarterback Bo Nix’s ankle recovery and the impact of new offensive coordinator Davis Webb, while the Kansas City Chiefs focus on Patrick Mahomes’ return from a season-ending knee injury.
In the NFC, the Dallas Cowboys transition to a 3-4 defense with several new starters, and the New York Giants bring in Super Bowl-winning coach John Harbaugh to work with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. The Philadelphia Eagles will test a reimagined offense under Sean Mannion, and the Chicago Bears hope defensive adjustments will improve a unit that ranked near the bottom in pass rush metrics.
Other notable storylines include the New England Patriots’ pending contract extension for cornerback Christian Gonzalez, the Los Angeles Chargers’ effort to upgrade their offense under Mike McDaniel, and the Seattle Seahawks’ reliance on first-time offensive coordinator Brian Fleury after losing key defensive players.
Across the league, coaches and players are adapting to new schemes, evaluating rookie contributions, and managing injury recoveries as they vie for a spot in Super Bowl LXI.