Preseason Highlights Include Fullback Revival, New Challenge Flag Rule and Coaching Debuts
Analyst Conor Orr outlines six preseason storylines, from the potential resurgence of the fullback to depth concerns on the offensive line and upcoming coaching changes.
The Week 1 NFL preseason offers more than filler games, with analysts pointing to several trends that could shape the regular season. Coaches are experimenting with the fullback position, a role that saw limited use in recent years but may return as teams seek a versatile blocker for run-first schemes and special-teams duties. Last season, nine teams logged over 100 fullback snaps, including the 49ers, Ravens and Bills, and this year the Vikings drafted Max Bredeson, the only fullback selected, while the Bengals are testing the position in a revamped offense.
A new NFL resolution permits teams to assign a designated challenge-flag thrower, adding a layer to the existing review process. While head coaches say they have not yet fully explored the mechanics, the preseason could serve as a testing ground for delegating the responsibility, a move that may affect game-management dynamics once the season begins.
Offensive line depth is already a concern, as data shows teams used their most-common line combinations just 42% of the time last season. Injuries to starters such as Steelers tackle Max Iheanachor and Commanders tackle Laremy Tunsil have opened opportunities for backups like Dylan Cook and Brandon Coleman, highlighting the thinness of depth at the position.
The New York Giants’ red-zone efficiency also draws attention. After ranking near the bottom of the league inside the 20-yard line last year, the team hopes its new offensive scheme and possible veteran running-back acquisitions will improve goal-line production.
Coaching changes are another focal point, with Ravens head coach Jesse Minter and Bills defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard making their first appearances. Both are expected to implement aggressive defensive schemes that could elevate their teams’ performance against top offenses.
Overall, the preseason serves as a laboratory for evaluating positional usage, rule adaptations and coaching impacts ahead of the regular season.