With NFL training camps kicking off across the country, teams are passionately and critically combing through their rosters and preparing for fall with optimism and hope. The Cleveland Browns have recently become the epicenter of that drama with Joe Flacco clearly on track to head up their starting offensive unit. The Buffalo Bills see Tre’Davious White holding down the cornerback position amidst various player competitions across the league. Coaches are keen to assess player performances in different situations to finalize their starting lineups, setting the stage for an intense preseason filled with competition.
The competition is intense as training camp wears on. The Browns, under the leadership of Coach Kevin Stefanski, aim to scrutinize each quarterback’s abilities before committing to a starter. For the Ravens, the stakes are higher as they’ll be in the market for Justin Tucker’s replacement. In Denver, the Broncos struggle to manage situational snap battles, and in Pittsburgh, the Steelers face a considerable adjustment following the trade of George Pickens.
Browns’ Quarterback Competition
The Cleveland Browns quarterback derby is becoming downright interesting! It’s clear that Joe Flacco has set himself up nicely to receive the keys to the starting offense. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski had noted that it was key to see each QB in all the different situations a game can present.
Flacco’s veteran presence and displays of skill in practice have wowed both the coaching staff and spectators. Even with all that enthusiasm, Stefanski is playing it safe by not announcing a starter until absolutely necessary.
“If we have a guy that clearly wins the starting job, then he’ll be the starting guy,” – Brian Schottenheimer
Among them, Flacco emerges as the best option to fill the position. Rookie draft picks Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker are part of the equation, each doing impressive things during training camp.
Maxwell Hairston is nursing a right LCL sprain at the moment, adding some difficulty to separating this quarterback competition. This injury should worry anyone about the depth of the Browns’ roster heading into the 2023 NFL season.
Key Battles Across the League
Competition is fierce across all teams in training camps as well. Tre’Davious White of the Buffalo Bills during a 2019 game. Yet, he is not without his competition as a host of fellow frontline defensive players scramble to leave their impact.
Throughout the league, teams like the Jets are experiencing fierce position battles too. Joe Tippmann and Josh Myers are battling tooth and nail at the center position. Both players have been impressive with their skills during training camp.
In Cincinnati, Cody Ford and Lucas Patrick are battling for the right guard position, while in Kansas City, Josh Simmons has taken all the reps at left tackle, indicating his potential importance to the offensive line.
“Competition brings out the most in people most of the time,” – Brian Daboll
The pressure of that competition is very much felt, as coaches can’t wait to see which players step up and start thriving.
Rookie Showdowns and Veteran Performance
The influence that rookies have had in the four training camps thus far should not be overlooked. The Ravens are specifically focused on finding a replacement for veteran kicker Justin Tucker, with two rookies currently battling for the esteemed position.
On the other side of the ball, DeMarcco Hellams has stolen the show in practice sessions with his big play potential. More specifically, he is working to claim his own place on the roster while helping to foster positive team chemistry.
For the New York Giants, Eric Stokes has played primarily with the starters during training camp, signaling confidence in his abilities. Kingsley Suamataia’s decision to switch from guard to tackle might be among the boldest. This move showcases his exceptional flexibility and marks him as an excellent second-round pick in 2024.
“When the winner shows, it’s going to show,” – Chris Horton
These ladies really exemplify the spirit of competition that you find at any training camp. They foreshadow what we hope will be a fruitful, productive, and very collective fall season.
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