Training Camp UpdateVolume 7, Issue 1 – 8/07/12

Training camps are in full swing and we want you to feel like you have attended every practice and seen every preseason game.

To keep all our Footballguys subscribers on top of everything, we’ve created our incredibly detailed Training Camp Updates. They're an exhaustive look each week covering every bit of news you need to know to stay completely on top of all 32 teams. Quite simply, they're the key to Dominating Your Draft.

This is the first of four training camp updates from us. We'll break down every team's skill positions and position battles. It’s the stuff you'd see if you were there at every camp watching practice yourself. Our own Bob Henry creates the Training Camp Updates with significant contributions from Jason Wood, Mark Wimer, Mike Herman, Greg Russell, Jene Bramel, Aaron Rudnicki, Sigmund Bloom, Maurile Tremblay, Andrew Garda, Colin Dowling, Anthony Borbely, Heath Cummings and Ryan Hester. Each camp update reflects the most up-to-date information from each of the 32 training camps; the type of information that will help maintain your advantage over the rest of your league mates.

Happy reading and let's have a great 2012 season,

Joe Bryant and David DoddsOwners, Footballguys.com

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Arizona Cardinals

QB: Kevin Kolb drew the start in Sunday night’s Hall of Fame game, but it was a night that Kolb will want to quickly forget. He was intercepted on his first pass by the Saints Malcolm Jenkins. His second series didn’t go well either as his

next two passes were incomplete and the Cardinals went three-and-out. On the first play of the Cardinals’ third possession, Kolb scrambled to his right and completed a 4-yard pass to FB Anthony Sherman only to be slammed to the ground by Sedrick Ellis. Kolb bruised his ribs and chest on the play, left the game and didn’t return. While Kolb looked downright awful, he also suffered from poor protection as the Saints swarmed him each time he dropped back to pass. John Skelton took over and also got go against the Saints first-team defense completing 4-of-6 for 32 yards. Skelton enjoyed better protection as the Cards’ offensive line seemed to settle down a bit and he led the offense to a second-quarter touchdown drive that covered 90 yards in 14 plays. Afterward, Head Coach Ken Whisenhunt was asked about Kolb’s condition. "He has a bruise in his chest and that makes it kind of tough to rotate, move," Whisenhunt said. "I think he'll probably be practicing sometime this week."

For Kolb, it’s yet another setback after having a scare in last Monday’s practice when he suffered a right thigh contusion then sat out of practice on Tuesday. Kolb entered camp first on the depth chart and he’s being given every opportunity to win the job after the team shelled out another $7 million in a roster/option bonus during the offseason. Needless to say, Kolb is on a short leash and is nearly undraftable in most fantasy league formats. The sentiment is growing that Kolb is either a bad fit for the Cardinals offense, he can’t stay healthy or that Skelton is simply a better option. NFL Network analysis and former linebacker Willie McGinest believes the Cardinals players are "gravitating toward Skelton a little more". Richard Bartel entered the game after Skelton and completed 3-of-7 for 61 yards. Rookie Ryan Lindley saw the most action for the Cardinals, but failed to get the Cardinals offense into the end zone as he completed 10-of-21 for 118 yards with an interception.

RB: Neither Beanie Wells (knee surgery) nor Ryan Williams (knee, patella tendon) suited up for Sunday’s game. LaRod Stephens-Howling got the start and gained 25 yards on four carries. Alfonso Smith scored the Cardinals lone touchdown on a 4-yard run. Smith finished with 46 yards on eight carries, including a game-high 22 yard run. William Powell ran 10 times for 31 yards and caught three passes for another 26 yards. Thomas Clayton, who was signed last week with Javarris James sidelined for at least a week, ran six times for 10 yards. As for Wells, he’s expected to begin practicing sometime during the next week and make his debut August 17th against the Raiders. "He will probably start doing some work next week," Whisenhunt said. "We'd like to get him involved in preseason games, probably a little bit later. We'll see how it goes." The details have been sketchy around Wells’ offseason knee surgery, so his return to the field has fantasy owners anxious with the talented Williams beginning to round into shape. Williams looked good to the NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks, who was impressed by his "remarkable stop-and-start quickness" and "ability to find seams in the middle of the defense and stick his foot in the ground to explode through holes". On his return, Williams said, "I'm in no rush to get back on the knee. I'm just chilling. Rehab is going well. It's just not worth it to risk it in a game that doesn't mean that much."

WR: No news is good news when it comes to Larry Fitzgerald. The Pro Bowl receiver had a quiet night on Sunday catching one pass from Skelton for 10 yards. The focus of camp has been squarely on Michael Floyd and his spot on the team’s depth chart. The 13th pick in the draft is currently 4th on the depth chart and playing behind third year WR Andre Roberts. Floyd will have to earn a promotion to the starting lineup, but according to the NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks he has been one of the standouts in camp. For now, his contributions will come in four-receiver sets. Early Doucet has the edge as the team’s 3rd (slot) receiver and when they go to four wide Roberts will move inside next to Doucet with Fitzgerald and Floyd on the outside. On Sunday night, Floyd caught one ball for 15 yards and Roberts caught two for 14 yards.

TE: Much has been made of Rob Housler, the team’s 2011 third round pick, and his expected role as a 6’5”, 250 pound pass-catching tight end this season. Whisenhunt reportedly has big plans for Housler and he has been working in with the starters during the first week in camp. He got off to a nice start in the preseason by grabbing three catches for 51 yards in Sunday night’s opener. He missed on another pass targeted for him, although it was a poorly thrown ball from Richard Bartel. Housler is competing with veteran incumbent Todd Heap, who is nearing the end of a long and injury-riddled career, and Jeff King.

Defense: The Cardinals defense is looking to use last year’s No. 5 overall pick more involved in the defense by matching him up against opposing No. 1 receivers this year. Peterson struggled early as a rookie, but improved throughout the season and he’s already perhaps the league’s most dangerous punt returner and a threat to score any time he intercepts a pass. William Gay opened camp opposite Peterson at left corner while A.J. Jefferson moved up to third on the depth chart after being benched mid-season last year. Greg Toler returns from injury to provide Gay, Jefferson and rookie Jamell Fleming competition for what promises to be an improved secondary. The team discussed signing ILB Daryl Washington to a contract extension, but no offer has been made yet. NT Dan Williams reported to camp at 314 pounds. Williams is key to the Cardinals defensive front and he has struggled with his weight and nagging injuries since being drafted 26th overall two years ago. SS Adrian Wilson helped the team by reducing his cap figure as part of a four-year extension that will allow him to retire a Cardinal. LB Paris Lenon left Sunday night’s game with an ankle injury and he didn’t return.

Special Teams: “Pretty inspiring walking through the Pro Football hall of fame in Canton. Made me want to go play better than I ever have before,” tweeted kicker Jay Feely prior to the Hall of Fame Game. He was good on his limited attempts in the game – a 27-yard field goal and an extra point. Dave Zastudil hit a HOF Game record 79-yard punt and averaged 62 yards on his three punts. Ricky Schmitt, who serves as the camp leg behind both Feely and Zastudil, handled the punting in the second half of the game. Starter Mike Leach is the lone long snapper in camp.

Cardinals Depth ChartQB: Kevin Kolb (inj), John Skelton, Ryan Lindley, Richard BartelRB: Chris Wells (inj), Ryan Williams (inj), LaRod Stephens-Howling (KR), Alfonso Smith, Javarris James, Thomas Clayton, William PowellFB: Anthony ShermanWR: Larry Fitzgerald, Andre Roberts, Early Doucet, Michael Floyd, Demarco Sampson, Stephen Williams, Jaymar Johnson, Isaiah Williams, Gino CrumpTE: Todd Heap, Rob Housler, Jeff King, Jim Dray, Stephen Skelton, Martell WebbLT: Levi Brown, Nate PotterLG: Daryn Colledge, Chris StewartC: Lyle Sendlein, Ryan BartholomewRG: Adam Snyder, Senio KelemeteRT: Jeremy Bridges, Bobby MassieK: Jay FeelyNT: Dan Williams, Nick Eason, David CarterDE: Darnell Dockett (DT), Calais Campbell, Vonnie Holliday, Ronald Talley, Landon Cohen, Ricky LumpkinILB: Daryl Washington, Paris Lenon, Stewart Bradley, Quan Sturdivant, Reggie WalkerOLB: Sam Acho, O'Brien Schofield, Clark Haggans, Brandon Williams, Antonio ColemanCB: Patrick Peterson (PR), William Gay, Michael Adams, A.J. Jefferson, Jamell Fleming, Greg Toler, Marshay Green, Crezdon Butler, Larry ParkerS: Adrian Wilson (SS), Kerry Rhodes (FS), Rashad Johnson (FS) , James Sanders, Justin Bethel, Eddie Elder

Atlanta Falcons

QB: New OC Dirk Koetter recently reflected on Matt Ryan, saying, “How he’s won as a starter in the league, we think he’s a top 10 quarterback.” Koetter continued, “His play backs that up.” Ryan is excited about his tandem of dynamic receivers: “... I think we can be really good. Really, very good. The two of them together are extremely unselfish. They just want to win and want to make plays. They push each other to get better. I think it’s a unique relationship that they have. I think they can be as good as anybody in the league.”

RB: Jacquizz Rodgers is challenging stalwart Michael Turner for touches. Turner, Rodgers and Jason Snelling are fighting for snaps ramping up to the first preseason game. Meanwhile, Antone Smith is getting a look on punt and kick returns. “Antone is an interesting dynamic for us on special teams, because he's such a good cover guy, he's such a good blocker, but he's also got the speed to be a returner,” Head Coach Mike Smith said. On offense, Smith is competing for the No. 4 running back job. Rookie OG Peter Konz had a strong showing in short-yardage drills at the close of practice Tuesday. He cleared paths for running back Dimitri Nance to score from 1 yard and 2 yards out. “He’s [Konz] doing well,” Koetter said. “He’s played both right guard and center and is doing a good job at both spots.”

"We wanted to give them a real competitive finish to the day [August 2]+," said Smith. "... I think there was some good execution down there on the offensive side. There was good hard running. It wasn't like they walked in. They went behind our young offensive lineman." Note - the starters were not involved in the plays Smith was referring to.

WR: Julio Jones has been on fire. The star 2nd year receiver is enjoying a full offseason this time around, and is 100% healthy. “I'm out here and stronger than ever,” Jones said. “It's so much easier when you're not tired. You can come out here and really focus. Everything has just been so much easier this time around. I just want to be in [three wide receiver set] all day long, but I’m not the offensive coordinator. The more weapons we have out there, the more opportunities we have to make plays.” Julio Jones and Roddy White combined for 2,255 receiving yards last season.

Defense: Defensive tackle Travian Robertson (seventh round, 249th) is making the most of his opportunities. With starting defensive tackle Corey Peters out with a foot injury, Robertson is getting more repetitions at nose tackle early in training camp. “He’s a big strong guy that has a lot to learn as far as techniques go, but again he’s a big strong guy,” DC Mike Nolan said. “We’ll just see how it goes when we get the pads on full time. For the linemen it’s really too early to tell. … Running around in their underwear is not really too impressive.”

Special Teams: The Falcons entered camp with two players at each of the three specialist positions. Starting placekicker Matt Bryant is backed up by rookie Erik Folk (Nick’s brother). Starting punter, holder and kickoff specialist Matt Bosher is backed up by rookie Dawson Zimmerman. Who will be snapping to the starters in September will be determined during August. Returning starter Joe Zelenka’s hold on the job is tenuous. His competition is Josh Harris, who although a rookie was the top long snapper prospect in this year’s class. The longer the battle endures, the longer Matt and Matt’s reps are split with the eventually starter.

Falcons Depth ChartQB: Matt Ryan, Chris Redman, John Parker Wilson, Dominique DavisRB: Michael Turner, Jacquizz Rodgers, Jason Snelling (FB), Antone Smith, Dimitri NanceFB: Bradie Ewing, Mike Cox, Lee MeisnerWR: Roddy White, Julio Jones, Harry Douglas (KR/PR), Kerry Meier, Kevin Cone,Michael Calvin, Drew Davis, James Rodgers (KR/PR), Tim Toone, Marcus Jackson, Kenny StaffordTE: Tony Gonzalez, Michael Palmer, Tommy Gallarda, Marquez Branson, Aron WhiteLT: Sam Baker, Will SvitekLG: Justin Blalock, Mike JohnsonC: Todd McClure, Joe HawleyRG: Garrett Reynolds, Vince Manuwai, Peter KonzRT: Tyson Clabo, Lamar HolmesK: Matt Bryant, Erik FolkDT: Jonathan Babineaux, Corey Peters, Peria Jerry, Vance Walker, Travian Robertson, Carlton

Powell, Regis Micanor, Elish Joseph, Conrad ObiDE: John Abraham, Ray Edwards, Kroy Biermann, Lawrence Sidbury, Jonathan Massaquoi, Cliff Matthews, Louis NzeqwuMLB: Akeem Dent, Mike Peterson, Max Gruder, Pat SchillerOLB: Sean Weatherspoon (W), Stephen Nicholas (S), Spencer Adkins (S), Robert James (W), Rico Council, Jarrell HarrisCB: Brent Grimes, Asante Samuel, Dunta Robinson, Dominique Franks (KR/PR) ,Christopher Owens, Darrin Walls, Robert McClain, Marty Markett, Peyton ThompsonS: Thomas DeCoud (FS), William Moore (SS), Shann Schillinger (FS), Charles Mitchell, Chris Hope (SS), Chad Faulcon (SS), Suaesi Tuimaunei (FS)

Baltimore Ravens

QB: Two stories emerged from the first week of training camp regarding Ravens starting quarterback Joe Flacco. The Ravens have met with Flacco’s agent to discuss a long-term extension as he goes into his contract year. While no deal is imminent, all signs point towards an amicable negotiation process and a possible deal being struck at some point during the season. The second bit comes from ESPN’s John Clayton, who reported that Flacco has writers, coaches and teammates raving about Flacco’s improved focus and execution. While establishing himself as more of a leader, Flacco is also challenging offensive coordinator Cam Cameron to be more aggressive and call more pass plays on early downs. For what it’s worth, Head Coach John Harbaugh even suggests a breakout year could be in the making for Flacco. In the team’s first full practice, the offense began at the defense’s 20-yard line and scored touchdowns on four out of nine plays. The second unit scored twice in 10 attempts, including back-to-back scores from Tyrod Taylor to receivers LaQuan Williams and Dorian Graham. The team waived undrafted John Brantley, securing Curtis Painter’s spot as the team’s third QB.

RB: Ray Rice was rewarded with a five-year, $40 million deal on the eve of training camp. Rice and Marshall Faulk are the only players in NFL history to have multiple seasons with 1,000+ yards rushing and 700+ yards receiving. It didn’t take Rice long to make an impact in camp either, as he busted a long run up the middle only to be caught from behind just before the reaching the end zone, prompting fullback Vonta Leach to give him a hard time. "We would have scored if your fat [butt] didn't get caught,” teased Leach. Rookie Bernard Pierce has been sidelined by a hamstring after missing several off-season practices with a tight hamstring. Pierce is competing with Anthony Allen for the backup spot behind Rice. Leach was given a day off from practice to rest a sore back. “Yeah, I held him out,” Harbaugh said. “His back started to tighten up, too, so I held him out a little bit. That’s part of the camp deal, especially those guys who are a little bit older.” One player to watch for deep dynasty leagues is

rookie Bobby Rainey, an undrafted free agent with similar measurables (5-8, 212) to Rice. Rainey broke several long runs during the first few practices with Rice being worked slowly into team drills, Pierce on the sidelines and Allen not separating himself.

WR: The Ravens had difficulty matching up last year when defenses went to tight man coverage. Cam Cameron frequently went to three-receiver formations only they struggled to gain separation prompting Flacco to hold onto the ball too long and check down to Rice or one of their tight ends. Ozzie Newsome began addressing the problem last year with the blazing fast Torrey Smith and continued this offseason with the acquisition of Jacoby Jones via free agency and Tommy Streeter in the draft. For his part, Smith has worked diligently on the route tree and he’s now a threat on all routes. Newsome now believes he has the fastest groups of receivers during his tenure as GM. With Flacco’s increased aggressiveness and cannon arm, there is plenty of room for him to blossom as a solid WR2 after producing 841 yards and 7 TDs as a rookie. The top three are set with Smith, Anquan Boldin and Jones, leaving plenty of competition for the finals spots between a rapidly improving Tandon Doss, undrafted camp surprise Deonte Thompson, the consistent LaQuan Williams and rookies Streeter, Dorian Graham and Devin Goda. Thompson saw some action in the loss last Thursday when Boldin was absent from practice.

“It’s a good group,” said Harbaugh. “There’s not one guy in there that you would say that can’t compete. Some guys are ahead of other guys. To me, the next thing is going to be consistency because they’ve all flashed plays. They’ve all made plays. The ability to stack a good practice on top of a good practice, a good series on top of a series, a play on top of a play, will be the determiner.” As far as standout performers, Williams had a leaping touchdown catch in red zone drills, caught two passes for first downs and added another back-shoulder leaping grab over rookie corner Jordan Mabin. After Jones dropped a pass that resulted in an interception, he rebounded with a long TD catch in 11-on-11s as he beat Jimmy Smith down the right sideline for a touchdown. Doss put together an excellent first three days of camp before missing the next six consecutive days with an ailing hamstring. “I’ve been out of football for a while,” Doss said. “I started off camp well and unfortunately, I had some maintenance issues that I had to take care of. I’m ready to get back on the field now. I should be back Monday. That’s the plan.” On Saturday, Boldin capped off a 70-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown catch from Flacco. Streeter’s been mostly quiet, but he made a little noise Saturday using 6-5 frame to snare a soft pass from Tyrod Taylor in red-zone drills.

TE: Dennis Pitta broke his hand and will be sidelined four to six weeks prompting the Ravens to sign Billy Bajema, who played with the Rams last year. Pitta’s surgery went well and he should be ready for Week 1 against the Bengals. "Sooner than that would be a bonus," said John Harbaugh. In the meantime, Bajema will compete with Davon Drew to be the team’s third tight end and Ed Dickson will pick up even more reps while Pitta is on the mend.

Defense: The biggest focus in camp defensively is finding a replacement for Terrell Suggs. Paul Kruger has been a top performer during the first week replacing Suggs as the team’s rush linebacker. "Terrell Suggs is the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and I'm not going to go out there and try to be him," Kruger said. "I'm going to be the best player I can be… The biggest thing is staying explosive even when you're tired. That's what makes Suggs, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed great." On Saturday, Kruger dove and tipped away a pass intended for Deonte Thompson and then sacked Tyrod Taylor on the next play. Kruger also sacked Flacco twice on the same day. Rookie Courtney Upshaw hasn’t practiced since spraining his right shoulder early in camp. With Upshaw sidelined, Sergio Kindle got some extra snaps with the first-team defense and they team signed OLB Stevie Baggs Jr., most likely as a camp body. DT Haloti Ngata and OT Bryant McKinnie participated in Friday’s practice – their first after passing their conditioning test as they were returning from injuries. Jimmy Smith’s back locked up on Friday and DE Arthur Jones had an MRI on his hip after missing practice for a couple of days. Ray Lewis reported to camp almost 20 points lighter than in previous year as he took up cycling in the offseason in an effort to combat father time at 37 years old.

Special Teams: “It’s all that we’d hoped it would be because both kickers are kicking well” said special teams coordinator Jerry Rosburg recently regarding the kicking competition. From a numbers standpoint through Saturday, the challenger, undrafted rookie Justin Tucker, held a slight edge having gone 50 of 53 in camp. Meanwhile, incumbent Billy Cundiff was 46 of 54. Head coach John Harbaugh noted, “We got a lot of reps for the kickers in game-like situations, which is really unusual and hard to deal with. They both came through. Both those guys kicked about as well as you can kick.”

Ravens Depth ChartQB: Joe Flacco, Tyrod Taylor, Curtis PainterRB: Ray Rice (3RB), Bernard Pierce, Anthony Allen, Damien BerryFB: Vonta LeachWR: Torrey Smith, Anquan Boldin, Jacoby Jones (KR), Tandon Doss, Tommy Streeter, Deonte Thompson, LaQuan Williams, David Reed, Patrick Williams, Logan PayneTE: Ed Dickson, Dennis Pitta (inj), Davon Drew, Billy Bajema, Matt Balasavage, Bruce Figgins, Lamont BryantLT: Bryant McKinnie, Ramon HarewoodLG: Bobby Williams, Kelechi Osemele, Justin BorenC: Matt Birk, Cecil NewtonRG: Marshal Yanda, Gino GradkowskiRT: Michael Oher, Jah ReidK: Justin Tucker, Billy CundiffDT: Haloti Ngata, Terrence Cody (NT), Arthur Jones, DeAngelo Tyson, Ma'ake Kemoeatu (NT), Ryan McBean (susp), Bryan HallDE: Pernell McPhee, Michael McAdoo (IR)ILB: Ray Lewis (M), Jameel McClain (W), Dannell Ellerbe (W/M), Brendon Ayanbadejo, Albert McClellan, Josh Bynes, Ricky BrownOLB: Terrell Suggs (R) (inj), Paul Kruger, Courtney Upshaw, Sergio Kindle, Darryl Blackstock, Chavis

Williams, Stevie BaggsCB: Lardarius Webb (PR), Jimmy Smith, Cary Williams, Corey Graham, Asa Jackson, Danny Gorrer, Chykie BrownS: Ed Reed (FS), Bernard Pollard (SS), Sean Considine (FS/SS), Christian Thompson (FS), Emmanuel Cook

Buffalo Bills

QB: For the first time in a while, there are high expectations going into the season for the Bills. One of the key factors that will determine whether they can return to the playoffs or not, will be the play of starting QB Ryan Fitzpatrick. The Bills hired the highly regarded David Lee to be their new QB coach this offseason and he has been working hard on the footwork of his new pupil, which should improve his consistency and accuracy. Lee was integral in introducing the Wildcat offense back to the NFL during his tenure with the Dolphins so we may also see a bit more running from the Bills QBs this year. The #2 QB job is up for grabs and will be an interesting competition to follow during the preseason. Newcomer Vince Young was signed after a disappointing year in Philadelphia and may have trouble learning the Bills offense, while the incumbent Tyler Thigpen knows the system very well but has been underwhelming during his Bills career. Both players have struggled early in camp.

RB: Fred Jackson performed at an MVP-level last season before suffering a broken leg in November. During his absence, CJ Spiller also proved that he could handle the workload of being a feature back. Both backs are fully healthy going into this season and should give the Bills one of the best RB tandems in the league. It will be interesting to watch how they are used during the preseason as the Bills may need to get creative to make sure both players get enough touches to be effective. Jackson is the better inside runner and a team leader who was rewarded with a new contract this offseason while Spiller was a very high draft pick who brings a lot of speed and explosiveness to the offense. Look for Jackson to get most of the work running the ball while Spiller contributes as a change of pace player who can also split out wide as a receiver at times. Veteran Tashard Choice should compete with 2nd year pro Johnny White for the #3 RB job.

WR: This position is considered a potential weakness and will be a major focal point during the preseason. Steve Johnson got a big contract to stick around despite being disciplined last year for several unsportsmanlike conduct penalties during touchdown celebrations. As the only receiver to post back-to-back 1,000 yard-seasons in Bills history, he is a clear #1 and has great chemistry with Fitzpatrick. The Bills didn’t upgrade the WR2 position as much as many observers expected though. There were no big free agent signings and the only real new player in the mix is rookie T.J. Graham, a speed merchant taken in the 3rd round who likely needs some time to develop. Donald Jones is the incumbent and the best blocker of the group while Marcus Easley is physically impressive but has yet to take a regular season snap. Veteran Derek Hagan

has been one of the early stars in camp, but he has mostly been a journeyman player to this point of his career. David Nelson is a reliable possession receiver entrenched as the slot receiver who will likely wind up with more targets and receptions than whoever wins the #2 job.

TE: Scott Chandler came from out of nowhere last year to become a key piece of the offense and wound up finishing with 6 touchdowns on the year. He is a reliable receiver over the middle and a big target once the team gets inside the red zone. New TE coach Pete Metzelaars thinks that Chandler is a better blocker than he’s given credit for and can become an every down player. The backup TE job will likely be filled by Lee Smith, a blocking specialist with limited fantasy potential. A wild card to watch at this position is Dorin Dickerson, who was claimed off waivers from the Texans. He’s an impressive athlete and could fill a key role on the team as an H-back.

Defense: The biggest story of the offseason for this team was obviously the pursuit and signing of defensive end Mario Williams. The Bills went out of character to sign one of the biggest players available to a $100 million contract and the expectation is that he was the missing piece that will help take their defense and team to a new level. The defense will shift to a 4-3 front this year under new coordinator Dave Wanndstedt, and the inside tandem of Marcell Dareus and Kyle Williams combined with Mario Williams and newcomer Mark Anderson should make this one of the best defensive lines in the league. The depth is impressive when you consider that a former star like Shawne Merriman is now just a backup who could have trouble getting on the field regularly. The linebacker group is a bit of a question mark but will be led by a couple of veterans in Nick Barnett and Kirk Morrison. 2nd year pro Kelvin Sheppard takes over as the full-time middle linebacker but will likely be replaced on passing downs by veteran Bryan Scott. The secondary also received an upgrade at cornerback with the release of Drayton Florence and the drafting of Stephon Gilmore early in the first round. Gilmore has been impressive during the start of camp and figures to take over one starting spot while the other will need to be earned by someone, most likely Aaron Williams or Terrence McGee. There is little to worry about with the starting safeties, but the lack of experienced depth behind George Wilson and Jairus Byrd was a concern for the team heading into camp and they could look to bring in some added help soon.

Special Teams: Rookie kicker John Potter recently summarized his upcoming August, “I won’t know I’m on the team for sure until after the last preseason game. That’s when the final decisions are made. The plan is, if I can kick well, I’ll do kickoffs and Rian [Lindell] will do field goals. Hopefully I’m able to showcase what I can do and be able to earn that spot.” Rookie punter Shawn Powell was one of the top prospects at his position in this year’s class, however odds are against him displacing veteran Brian Moorman. Early in camp, Moorman was consistently producing better hang time on punts compared to Powell.

Bills Depth ChartQB: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Vince Young, Tyler ThigpenRB: Fred Jackson, C.J. Spiller (PR), Johnny

White, Tashard Choice, Zach BrownFB: Corey McIntyre, Dorin DickersonWR: Steve Johnson, Derek Hagan, David Nelson, Donald Jones, T.J. Graham, Marcus Easley, Brad Smith (QB/KR), Naaman Roosevelt, Ruvell Martin, David Clowney , Kamar AikenTE: Scott Chandler, Lee Smith, Mike Caussin, Kevin Brock, Fendi OnobunLT: Cordy Glenn, Chris HairstonLG: Andy Levitre, Keith WilliamsC: Eric Wood, Colin BrownRG: Kraig Urbik, Chad RinehartRT: Erik Pears, Zebrie SandersK: Rian Lindell, John PotterDT: Marcell Dareus, Kyle Williams, Dwan Edwards, Kellen Heard, Torell Troup,Jarron Gilbert, Jay RossDE: Mario Williams, Mark Anderson, Chris Kelsay, Shawn Merriman, Alex Carrington, Spencer Johnson, Kyle MooreMLB: Kelvin Sheppard, Scott McKillop, Bryan Scott (SS/M), Tank Carder, Chris WhiteOLB: Nick Barnett (W), Kirk Morrison (S), Arthur Moats (S/M), Nigel Bradham (W),Robert Eddins (W), Dan Batten (S)CB: Stephon Gilmore, Aaron Williams, Terrence McGee, Leodis McKelvin, Ron Brooks, Justin Rogers (KR), Prince MillerS: Jairus Byrd (FS), George Wilson (SS), Da'Norris Searcy (SS), Josh Nesbitt (FS)

Carolina Panthers

QB: This week GM Marty Hurney spoke glowingly about Cam Newton - “It’s a quarterback’s league. So when you get a very good one it energizes your entire organization. Now you add Cam’s personality, which is dynamic, and his competiveness and his work ethic and then his playmaking abilities, and that’s contagious. The receivers are happier and more confident because they know that they always have a chance of getting the ball. The offensive linemen are happier because they know there’s always a chance Cam could escape for a 20-yard gain. The defense is energized because if they go out and get a stop they know the offense can score. It all has a domino effect on the entire team.”

RB: Panthers' head coach Ron Rivera believes the team is ahead of schedule as it works toward an August 11 exhibition opener against the Houston Texans. “You’re starting to see our offensive line solidify who they are as a group,” Rivera said. “It’s pretty much the same group with the exception of the left guard position. That group is starting to rally around (rookie Amini) Silatolu. He’s done a nice job and the guys working next to him, (Ryan) Kalil and (Jordan) Gross, are two veteran guys that know how to work with young players.... I’m really pleased with what we’re getting from the running back position. I think there’s a great combination there along with our quarterbacks, and those groups have been

significantly ahead of where they were last year.” Mike Tolbert has been highlighted as a top acquisition for 2012. Jonathan Stewart agrees, "It’s been going real good. With the addition of [Mike Tolbert], I think the defense is definitely over there cringing a bit. Seeing that wide body of his … he already has that low center of gravity but he has that size to plug holes and that’s what we want. We get that out of him and we get his catching ability and running ability out of the backfield, and it just expands the things we can do with our offensive game." Rivera said on the NFL Network Friday that the team sees Tolbert as the replacement to Jeremy Shockey, but that Tolbert brings more versatility to the team.

WR: Brandon LaFell is leading the charge to be the #2 wide receiver on the Panthers' roster. The Panthers' David Gettis was placed on IR David Gettis expects to be ready to play by mid-August as he returns from last year’s ankle injury. Seyi Ajirotutu and Louis Murphy are battling with Gettis for the #3 wide receiver position. Rookie receiver Joe Adams, 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds, reportedly struggled to gain separation in one of his few reps at receiver. But Adams is viewed as a lock to make the team as a punt returner. Wide receiver Armanti Edwards has had “an outstanding camp.” according to head coach Rivera – he may garner some looks during regular season.

TE: Mike Tolbert is seen as the replacement to Jeremy Shockey – Tolbert and Greg Olsen should handle most of the dump-off receptions.

Defense: Rivera pointed out CB Chris Gamble as a player having a strong start to training camp. He said Gamble, who left one practice early, sometimes gets too worked up to the point of making himself sick. “We’ve got a ways to go still. As a unit, we’re not where we want to be,” Rivera said. Linebacker Thomas Davis continues to be sidelined with a calf injury that has slowed his return to practice after he missed last season with a knee injury. “The calf has been bothering him a little bit,” coach Rivera said. “It is the calf on the repaired knee so we want to be cautious with that. We just want to make sure there is nothing else that we need to be concerned with.” Coach Rivera said defensive end Eric Norwood has “done a really nice job for us” as Norwood battles for a roster spot.

Special Teams: Justin Medlock may have a slight edge in the kicking competition after the first week. He’s shown an equally strong leg on kickoffs, one of Olindo Mare’s strengths, and has fared better on field goals. Head coach Ron Rivera indicated he won’t give either kicker advance notice on who’ll be kicking in preseason games, “They have to prepare as if they’re going to be the ones who kick. We want to make sure their minds are right. They are all pressure kicks and they have to pay attention and be ready to go.” At punter/holder, rookie Brad Nortman and veteran Nick Harris are competing.

Panthers Depth ChartQB: Cam Newton, Derek Anderson, Jimmy ClausenRB: DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart (3RB), Josh VaughnFB: Mike Tolbert (SD), Richie Brockel

WR: Steve Smith, Brandon LaFell, David Gettis, Louis Murphy, Seyi Ajirotutu, Joe Adams (PR/KR), Kealoha Pilares (KR), Armanti Edwards (PR), Darvin Adams, Chris MannoTE: Greg Olsen, Gary Barnidge, Ben Hartsock, Joe Jon Finley, Greg Smith, Nelson RosarioLT: Jordan Gross, Bruce CampbellLG: Amini Silatolu, Mike PollakC: Ryan Kalil, Jeff ByersRG: Geoff Hangartner, Bryant BrowningRT: Jeff Otah, Byron BellK: Olindo Mare, Justin MedlockDT: Ron Edwards, Terrell McClain, Sione Fua, Andre Neblett, Frank Kearse, Ogemdi Nwagbuo, Ryan Van BergenDE: Charles Johnson, Greg Hardy, Thomas Keiser, Frank Alexander, Eric NorwoodMLB: Jon Beason (W/M) (inj), Jason Phillips, Phillip DillardOLB: Luke Kuechly (W/M), James Anderson (S), Thomas Davis (W) (inj), Antwan Applewhite, Kenny Onatolu (S), Jordan Senn, Jason Williams (W), Kion Wilson (W), David NixonCB: Chris Gamble, Captain Munnerlyn (inj), Darius Butler , R.J. Stanford, Josh Norman, Brandon Hogan, Josh Thomas, Reggie SullivanS: Charles Godfrey (SS), Sherrod Martin (FS), Haruki Nakamura (FS), Reggie Smith, D.J. Campbell, Jordan Pugh (SS), Jonathan Nelson (FS), Nate Ness

Chicago Bears

QB: The Bears will need to score plenty of points to keep up with teams like the Lions and Packers in their division. They have a QB in Jay Cutler capable of putting up big numbers, but he needs better players around him than he’s had in recent years. One of the key areas to watch in the preseason will be the play of the offensive line. While there haven’t been any major upgrades, new offensive coordinator Mike Tice is a former offensive line coach who should put a much bigger focus on keeping Cutler upright in the pocket than Mike Martz did. Look for shorter passes that allow Cutler to get rid of the ball quickly before the pass rush has a chance to hit him. The trade for Brandon Marshall and drafting of Alshon Jeffery also gives the Bears some talented receivers with size, which should help make Cutler’s job easier. The backup job is no longer filled by Caleb Hanie but instead by a former starter in Jason Campbell who has looked good early on, so if Cutler were to suffer an injury the Bears are in pretty good shape. Veteran Josh McCown was also re-signed and gives the Bears tremendous depth at the position.

RB: The Bears were able to finally put the distraction of Matt Forte’s contract negotiations behind them when they signed him to a 4-year, $32 million deal in July. With that issue out of the way, initial reports are that Forte is having perhaps his best camp yet and he looks ready to build on the tremendous year he had in 2011. Marion Barber was a disappointment last year

but the Bears brought in a significant upgrade this year when they signed Michael Bush from the Raiders. He’s exactly the type of big, powerful runner that the team needs to complement Forte in the offense and should help the team get Forte a bit more rest in games to avoid wearing him down with overuse. At a minimum, Bush is expected to get the bulk of work around the goal line. Kahlil Bell looked great at the end of last year and should have a relatively easy time holding onto the #3 RB job, but he has had some fumbling issues and may be pushed by Lorenzo Booker in camp.

WR: Things got a whole lot more exciting for the Bears offense when they traded for Brandon Marshall. It was surprising that it only cost a pair of 3rd round picks to land one of the best receivers in the league, but Marshall has some personality issues that seem to cause problems for him wherever he goes. Regardless, he has a history with Jay Cutler and the two were very productive together early in their careers with the Broncos so this should be a great fit and give the Bears the true #1 wide receiver they have needed for a long time. The starting spot opposite Marshall will likely be up for grabs in the preseason. The initial favorite is Devin Hester given his contract and game-breaking ability, but he has been a bust in the past and will likely be pushed hard by rookie Alshon Jeffery, a 6’3” natural talent who could give the Bears a deadly target in the red zone. The slot receiver position will likely be held once again by the reliable Earl Bennett while players like Dane Sanzenbacher, Eric Weems, and the newly signed Rashied Davis also fight for an opportunity. Johnny Knox was placed on the PUP list while he continues to recover from spinal surgery and his status for the season remains in doubt.

TE: Initial reports out of training camp indicate that the tight end is becoming a more integral part of the passing game this year, so we should expect to see this in the preseason games as well. Mike Martz primarily used his tight ends as blockers but Mike Tice is giving them more opportunities to run downfield and make plays. Kellen Davis is the incumbent starter and known as more of a blocker than pass catcher, but he sounds genuinely excited about the new opportunity and could play a key role on this team. How the rest of the players shake out will likely be determined in camp, but rookie Evan Rodriguez is an intriguing player to watch as he drew comparisons to Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez coming out of college and has been making some big plays already. When the Bears use a 2-TE set, look for Rodriguez or Kyle Adams to often be put in motion and used a lot like a wide receiver.

Defense: The Bears defense is aging but isn’t yet over the hill. There are stars littered throughout the lineup that are likely on the downside of their careers but who still have enough gas left in the tank to put up another top-10 season. The focal point up front obviously continues to be Julius Peppers, but the Bears also brought in a potential reinforcement with the selection of Shea McClellin in the first round. It’s been a roller coaster ride for McClellin early in camp with him looking overmatched one day and dominant the next, but he should add some much-needed explosiveness to the pass rush. There isn’t much to worry about at linebacker as long as Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs go into the season healthy, but

newcomer Geno Hayes will compete with Nick Roach for the third starting spot. The secondary also remains relatively unchanged from a year ago with Charles Tillman still holding down one side of the field and Tim Jennings likely to start opposite him. The safety spot remains a potential weak spot as the Bears have rotated quite a few players through those spots and drafted a 3rd round safety for the third year in a row. Rookie Brandon Hardin is a former college corner who missed the entire 2011 season, but he is making a quick transition to the safety position and figures to see a lot of playing time in the preseason as the Bears try to get him up to speed.

Special Teams: All three Bears starting specialists remain the same - long snapper Patrick Mannelly, holder/punter Adam Podlesh and kicker Robbie Gould. Special teams coordinator Dave Toub recently commented, "We've got to be smart not to kick Robbie too much, or Adam for that matter." Spelling the two during August will be camp leg Ryan Quigley. The team also entered camp with rookie Dave Teggart to help fill that role; however he was released after the second practice. Gould however is optimistically looking beyond August, "There's no doubt that this year by far is our best chance to win a Super Bowl.”

Bears Depth ChartQB: Jay Cutler, Jason Campbell, Josh McCownRB: Matt Forte, Michael Bush, Kahlil Bell, Lorenzo Booker, Harvey Unga, Armando AllenFB: Tyler CluttsWR: Brandon Marshall, Devin Hester (PR/KR), Earl Bennett, Alshon Jeffery, Johnny Knox (inj), Eric Weems (PR/KR), Dane Sanzenbacher, Max Komar, Brittan GoldenTE: Kellen Davis, Matt Spaeth, Evan Rodriguez, Kyle Adams, Draylen RossLT: J'Marcus Webb, James Brown, Mansfield WrottoLG: Chris Williams, Edwin WilliamsC: Roberto Garza, Chris SpencerRG: Lance Louis, Chilo RachalRT: Gabe Carimi, Levi HornK: Robbie GouldDT: Matt Toeaina (NT), Henry Melton, Brian Price, Stephen Paea (NT), Jordan Miller, Nate CollinsDE: Julius Peppers, Israel Idonije, Shea McClellin, Corey Wootton, Chauncey Davis, Thaddeus Gibson, Cheta OzougwuMLB: Brian Urlacher (inj), Dom DiCiccoOLB: Lance Briggs (W), Nick Roach (S), Geno Hayes (S), Blake Costanzo (W), Jabara Williams, Patrick Trahan, J.T. ThomasCB: Charles Tillman, Tim Jennings, D.J. Moore, Jonathan Wilhite, Kelvin Hayden (inj), Isaiah Frey, Greg McCoy, Jeremy WareS: Major Wright (SS), Christopher Conte (FS), Brandon Hardin (FS), Craig Steltz (SS), Anthony Walters

Cincinnati Bengals

QB: With Andy Dalton the unquestioned starter entering camp, the bulk of the early-camp discussion has been about his arm strength and mechanics, particularly on deep balls. The chemistry between Dalton and A.J. Green has continued to be good on deep passes early in camp, but Dalton has been less consistent with the team’s more recent acquisitions. While acknowledging that Dalton still had room to improve, offensive coordinator Jay Gruden defended Dalton’s arm strength and argued that Dalton was physically capable of doing anything the team asked of him. Dalton was reportedly crisp in the team’s mock game last weekend. After a slow 0-4 start, Dalton finished the game on a 14 of 16 run for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Bruce Gradkowski will be Dalton’s backup.

RB: The Bengals replaced Cedric Benson with BenJarvus Green-Ellis this offseason. Green-Ellis may not get the same workload as Benson did last year, as the team is again saying that Bernard Scott will see more carries. Unlike past seasons, however, an increase in Scott’s usage seems more likely to happen. That’s assuming that Scott, who missed this weekend’s scrimmage and mock game with a hand injury, can stay healthy enough to take advantage of the opportunity. If the committee goes to plan, expect to see Green-Ellis as the starter and primary goal-line back, with Scott rotating in frequently and Brian Leonard taking the majority of passing down snaps. Cedric Peerman and rookie Dan Herron are battling for the final roster spot, but free agent pickup Aaron Brown has inserted himself into the competition with a strong first week of practice.

WR: A.J. Green continues to look like one of the best young wideouts in the league. Gruden told reporters that Green added ten pounds this offseason and has been working to improve his releases off the line against press coverage to counteract defensive efforts to shut him down this year. Green had three catches for 74 yards in the mock game including a long reception in which he beat double coverage down the sideline. Armon Binns drew praise for his good play during the OTA season, but rookie Mohamed Sanu and Brandon Tate are also in the mix for the team’s WR2 snaps. Fifth round pick Marvin Jones has also come on quickly and briefly switched over to the first team at the end of this weekend’s mock game. Green and tight end Jermaine Gresham may be Dalton’s favored targets this year, but the WR2 battle is one to watch. Andrew Hawkins is currently the team’s top slot receiver, but Jordan Shipley is off the PUP list sooner than expected and will challenge for snaps. Sanu may also get a long look in the slot if one of the bigger wide receiver distinguishes himself opposite Green over the next month.

TE: Jermaine Gresham continues to impress after a solid offseason of work. Gruden has said that Gresham will see even more targets this season, especially in the red zone. That has prompted some team observers to suggest that Gresham may become the team’s best passing options behind A.J. Green. Fourth round draft pick Orson Charles could also contribute in some packages, but isn’t likely to have a major role.

Defense: The team hopes that it’s young defense continues to mature this season. Defensive ends Michael Johnson and Carlos Dunlap both have dynamic pass rush ability but have been inconsistent. Robert Geathers and Jamaal Anderson will likely continue to limit the youngsters to rotational roles. Rey Maualuga will again play middle linebacker and defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer hopes for better play this year. Behind the front seven, the secondary remains unsettled. Cornerback Leon Hall is being brought back slowly from an Achilles tear and rookie Dre Kirkpatrick is missing time with a bone condition near his knee. Both are expected to be ready to contribute on opening weekend. Veterans Nate Clements and Terence Newman are among many taking snaps. At safety, Taylor Mays likely has the upper hand to replace the departed Chris Crocker. 

Special Teams: Kicker Mike Nugent began camp on the PUP list with a minor hamstring injury. In his absence, camp leg Thomas Weber went 5 of 6 in one practice - connecting from 26, 32, 36, 39, and 44 yards but missing a 30-yarder. Nugent returned to practice last Thursday and in one outing made kicks of 46 and 52 yards, from which distances Webber missed that same day. In addition to spelling Nugent, Webber has also been backing up starting punter Kevin Huber. Camp wrist Bryce Davis is backing up starting long snapper Clark Harris.

Bengals Depth ChartQB: Andy Dalton, Bruce Gradkowski, Zach RobinsonRB: BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Bernard Scott, Brian Leonard (3RB), Dan Herron, Cedric Peerman, Aaron BrownFB: Chris Pressley, James Develin, Jourdan Brooks WR: A.J. Green, Armon Binns, Andrew Hawkins, Brandon Tate (KR/PR),Mohamed Sanu, Jordan Shipley, Marvin Jones, Ryan Whalen, Vidal HazeltonTE: Jermaine Gresham, Orson Charles, Donald Lee, Colin CochartLT: Andrew Whitworth, Anthony CollinsLG: Travelle Wharton, Otis HudsonC: Kyle Cook, Jacob BellRG: Kevin Zeitler, Clint BolingRT: Andre Smith, Dennis RolandK: Mike Nugent, Thomas WeberDT: Geno Atkins, Domata Peko (NT), Devon Still, Pat Sims (NT), Brandon Thompson (NT), Nick Hayden, Vaughn MeatogaDE: Michael Johnson, Carlos Dunlap, Robert Geathers, Jamaal Anderson, DeQuin EvansMLB: Rey Maualuga, Micah Johnson, Vontaze Burfict, Grant HunterOLB: Thomas Howard (W), Manny Lawson (S), Dan Skuta (S), Vincent Rey (W),Dontay Moch (S) (susp), Roddrick Muckelroy, Emmanuel Lamur, Brandon JoinerCB: Leon Hall (inj), Nate Clements, Dre Kirkpatrick (inj), Jason Allen, Terence Newman, Adam Jones, Brandon Ghee, Shaun Prater (inj)S: Reggie Nelson (FS), Taylor Mays (SS), Jeromy Miles (SS), George Iloka (SS), Robert Sands (SS), Tony Dye (SS)

Cleveland Browns

QB: The Browns surprised no one when they officially named Brandon Weeden the starting quarterback on Monday. Weeden has taken all the first team snaps and head coach Pat Shurmur had said that they’d prefer to name a starting quarterback sooner than later. Colt McCoy has worked exclusively with the second team, but has drawn praise for observers for his improved comfort level with the offense and sharp play in team drills. There has been speculation from reporters that the team’s asking price for McCoy in trade is too high and the Browns may enter the season with McCoy on their backup quarterback. Seneca Wallace, last year’s backup, is taking snaps with the third team.

RB: Trent Richardson has been everything the Browns expected early in camp, breaking tackles and showing the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. Although Montario Hardesty has been impressive early, all indications are that Richardson will see 18-25 touches a game. Earlier in the summer, it was expected that Brandon Jackson would be the team’s primary backup, but Hardesty has generated buzz throughout the first week of camp with his quickness and impressive running between the tackles and outside. Hardesty’s durability history suggests caution, but the team would love to see him play effectively enough to spell Richardson when needed. Shurmur noted that he’s seen a noticeable difference in Hardesty from last season.

WR: The Browns are excited about the improvements they’ve made to the roster at the receiver positions. Supplemental pick Josh Gordon has been working behind Mohammed Massaquoi at one starting spot, but is already seeing time in some red zone packages. Massaquoi has drawn praise for his preparation and focus thus far in camp, but the team expects Gordon to continue to push for playing time. Greg Little in noticeably leaner this year and reportedly quicker out of his breaks. Most team observers are predicting a breakout season for him. Jordan Norwood is currently the starting slot receiver, but he’s being pushed by rookie Travis Benjamin and UDFA Josh Cooper (a former teammate of Weeden’s). Carlton Mitchell has yet to practice with an undisclosed injury and looks to have an uphill battle to make the roster. With the improvements to the depth chart, Josh Cribbs isn’t seeing as many offensive snaps and Shurmur strongly hinted that Cribbs will be back in a special teams role primarily this year.

TE: Ben Watson is running with the first team at tight end and playing well, but Jordan Cameron is generating nearly as much buzz as Hardesty on the second team. Cameron has shown great hands and is getting frequent looks in the red zone. Shurmur has noted that Cameron’s blocking still needs to improve, but it looks likely that Cameron will get targets in high-leverage situations this year. Evan Moore has yet to practice with an undisclosed injury and the improved play from Cameron could make Moore expendable.

Defense: The Browns lost OLB Chris Gocong for the season with a torn Achilles tendon last weekend. That opens the door even wider for rookie James-Michael Johnson. Johnson, who

was already in the mix for snaps while Scott Fujita serves his early season suspension, has drawn praise from Shurmur for his strong play early in camp. He’ll have a great chance to stick in the lineup at weak side linebacker with Gocong missing if the Browns choose not to add another veteran free agent. Defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin was back at practice last weekend after missing the first few practices while recovering from pelvic surgery this summer. The team hopes that they’ll have Phil Taylor back this season as well after a torn pectoral muscle this spring. With the addition of Frostee Rucker, return of T.J. Ward and two new members of the secondary, the defense is hoping for more aggressive play and more turnovers this year.

Special Teams: Kicker Jeff Wolfert will spend preseason trying to impress the other 31 teams in the league and keep himself in consideration with the Browns for 2013. For 2012, double franchise tagee Phil Dawson remains the kicker. The biggest specialist question in camp is at punter. Starter Reggie Hodges had a breakout year in 2010 but then missed 2011 with a torn Achilles. Is he fully recovered and will he return to form of two years ago? If not, Spencer Lanning is an intriguing option. He impressed in Bears’ camp last year, can backup as a field goal kicker, and could even handle kickoffs instead of Dawson.

Browns Depth ChartQB: Brandon Weeden, Colt McCoy, Seneca Wallace, Thaddeus LewisRB: Trent Richardson, Montario Hardesty, Brandon Jackson, Chris Ogbonnaya, Adonis ThomasFB: Owen Marecic, Brad SmelleyWR: Greg Little, Mohamed Massoquoi, Travis Benjamin, Josh Gordon, Jordan Norwood, Josh Cooper, Josh Cribbs (KR/PR), Carlton Mitchell, Owen Spencer, Rod Windsor, Jermaine Saffold, Bert ReedTE: Ben Watson, Evan Moore, Jordan Cameron, Alex Smith, Dan GronkowskiLT: Joe ThomasLG: Jason Pinkston, Ryan MillerC: Alex Mack, Garth GerhartRG: Shawn Lauvao, John GrecoRT: Mitchell Schwartz, Oneil CousinsK: Phil Dawson, Jeff WolfertDT: Ahtyba Rubin, Phil Taylor (NT) (inj), Scott Paxson (NT), John Hughes (NT),Brian Schaefering, Billy Winn (NT), Kiante TrippDE: Jabaal Sheard, Frostee Rucker, Juqua Parker, Marcus Benard, Emmanuel Stephens, Auston English, Brian Sanford, William GreenMLB: D'Qwell Jackson, Emmanuel Acho, Benjamin Jacobs, JoJo DicksonOLB: Scott Fujita (S) (susp), Kaluka Maiava (W), James-Michael Johnson (W),Quinton Spears (W), Craig Robertson (S), L.J. Fort, Chris Gocong (IR)CB: Joe Haden, Sheldon Brown, Dimitri Patterson, Buster Skrine, Trevin Wade, James Dockery, Antwuan Reed, Emanuel Davis, Johnson Bademosi, Tashaun Gipson, Mike AllenS: T.J. Ward (SS) (inj), Eric Hagg (FS), Usama Young (FS), Ray Ventrone (SS),David Sims (FS)

Dallas Cowboys

QB: It’s been business as usual for Tony Romo as he enters his sixth training camp as the starter. This preseason the keys are staying healthy and building a rapport with an unproven group of backup receivers. On Sunday, the Cowboys held their annual Blue-White Scrimmage, and Romo hooked up with Jason Witten on a touchdown, and scrambled for another. The most impressive play of the game came when newly acquired CB Brandon Carr jumped in front of a pass intended for Dez Bryant. Romo took the play in stride: “He got inside on a coverage that he really shouldn’t. That’s a great and terrible sign at the same time,” Romo said. “So I’m excited about that. If he can get there and do things like that, that’s going to help us a lot.” New backup Kyle Orton has looked comfortable in the Cowboys system in early practices, and notably threw six touchdowns during 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills during the scrimmage. The third string competition is leaning Rudy Carpenter’s way after Stephen McGee had three consecutive three-and-outs during the scrimmage.

RB: DeMarco Murray has been the star of training camp, looking every bit the franchise runner he appeared to be in mid-season stint of starts last year. Murray talked to reporters about the need for the team’s running backs to improve their scoring, calling last year’s five rushing touchdowns “unacceptable.” Murray is locked in as the starter, and appears to stand a chance at being a real workhorse. Projected #2 Felix Jones failed his initial conditioning test but passed on his second attempt. He’s been quiet thus far. Phillip Tanner’s bid to secure a 53-man roster spot took a turn for the worse when he broke his hand and underwent surgery. That opens the door to Lance Dunbar, Ed Wesley and Javarris Williams for the 3rd spot.

WR: Hamstrings and bad attitudes – those were the watch words last year for the talented but frustrating duo of Miles Austin and Dez Bryant. Unfortunately, neither topic has gone away in the first week of 2012 training camp. Austin suffered a “mild” hamstring strain and will be sidelined for about a week. The team is downplaying the significance, but fantasy owners who struggled through Austin’s 579-yard season will think twice until they see him back on the field. Bryant, meanwhile, had an incident with his mother that raised further questions about his maturity. Owner Jerry Jones may finally be losing his patience: “He’s screwed around here and got his benefit of the doubt collateral down to nothing,” Jones said. “And he’s also very vulnerable. Now, you’ve got to act differently when you’re in those shoes. He’s got to gain a bunch of that back. He can do it, and he can do it right out on this football field. And I hope that he does.” The Cowboys have major questions at the backup receiver positions, with 4th year Kevin Ogletree being given a run for his money from a collection of young players including Dwayne Harris, Danny Coale, Tim Benford, Andre Holmes and Raymond Radway.

TE: Jason Witten looked dominant at the Blue-White Scrimmage, hauling in back-to-back touchdown catches on

consecutive red zone plays. He’s entrenched as Tony Romo’s most reliable target. The team is still figuring out the rest of the depth chart, as rookies James Hanna and Andrew Szczerba attempt to make a statement while John Phillips nurses a sprained ankle.

Defense: The Cowboys prioritized the cornerback position this offseason, and the early returns hint at money well spent. Free agent Brandon Carr has been as good as advertised, making interceptions routinely in practice and a spectacular grab against Tony Romo in the Blue-White Scrimmage. DC Rob Ryan called him the best free agent available, and he may have been right. Rookie 1st rounder Morris Claiborne flashed early in camp and looks like the real deal, but he suffered a sprained MCL and will miss at least a week. Barry Church has been so impressive the Cowboys released Brodney Pool this week – all but cementing Church as the starter alongside Gerald Sensabaugh. At the linebacker position, Sean Lee has been the early camp standout.

Special Teams: Unlike last August when the Cowboys had five kickers competing, this year the job is definitely Dan Bailey’s. Head coach Jason Garrett discussed his camp plan, "What we want to do with Dan, as much as anything, is create as many pressure-packed situations as we can create out here." Bailey’s response: "It's tough to replicate exactly the kind of pressure you feel in a game, just because it's different. It's hard to simulate crowd and stuff like that, but it's something I enjoy." Punter/holder Chris Jones got off to a slow start in camp, which could present an opportunity for camp leg Delbert Alvarado or for the free agent pool.

Cowboys Depth ChartQB: Tony Romo, Kyle Orton, Stephen McGee, Rudy CarpenterRB: Demarco Murray, Felix Jones, Phillip Tanner (inj), Ed Wesley, Lance DunbarFB: Lawrence Vickers, Shaun ChapasWR: Miles Austin (inj), Dez Bryant, Kevin Ogletree, Dwayne Harris (KR), Danny Coale (inj), Andre Holmes, Raymond Radway, Teddy Williams, Cole BeasleyTE: Jason Witten, John Phillips, James Hanna, Andrew SzczerbaLT: Tyron Smith, Levy AdcockLG: Nate Livings, Ronald LearyC: Phil Costa, Bill NagyRG: Mackenzy Bernadeau, David ArkinRT: Doug Free, Jermey ParnellK: Dan BaileyNT: Jay Ratliff, Josh Brent, Robert CallowayDE: Jason Hatcher, Kenyon Coleman, Marcus Spears, Tyrone Crawford, Sean Lissemore, Clifton Geathers, Baraka AtkinsILB: Sean Lee (W), Dan Connor, Bruce Carter, Caleb McSurdy, Orie LemonOLB: DeMarcus Ware (J), Anthony Spencer (S) (UFA-F), Victor Butler (S), Kyle Wilber (S), Alex AlbrightCB: Brandon Carr, Morris Claiborne, Mike Jenkins (inj), Orlando Scandrick, Mario Butler, C.J. Wilson, Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, Justin Taplin-RossS: Gerald Sensabaugh (FS), Brodney Pool (SS), Barry

Church (SS), Danny McCray (FS), Matt Johnson (SS), Mana Silva

Denver Broncos

QB: Peyton Manning says he doesn’t feel 100% yet, and at least early in camp, most of his throws were short or intermediate. Even if he’s taking it slow with his deep balls, his accuracy and timing have been impeccable according to those in attendance, including our own Cecil Lammey. "Sometimes you turn and the ball just drops in your hands," said Demaryius Thomas. In Saturday’s 90-minute scrimmage, with a huge crowded spilling into the second and third decks, the Broncos went through a 7-on-7 session that began with Manning dumping off five straight times efore deciding to put on a show. "I could tell during the 7-on-7 early on that throwing the short passes wasn't real exciting for the crowd," Manning said. "So the last play of my 7-on-7, I actually changed that play to a deep pass just to try to keep the fans from leaving, I guess." Manning connect with Andre “Bubba” Caldwell for a 40-yard gain. When they went to full team drills, however, the offense had a tougher time. Manning narrowly avoided a sack, Caleb Hanie was sacked by Elvis Dumervil while Adam Weber and Brock Osweiler were constantly harassed. Derek Wolfe could’ve drilled Hanie on one play, but pulled up short. "Well, we need our quarterback," Dumervil said.

On Saturday, Osweiler worked as the team’s No. 2 while previously working as the third or fourth QB. Osweiler has shown excellent footwork, particularly for a man his size as well as good arm strength and surprisingly good mobility. He’s expected to open the season as Manning’s backup with Hanie and Weber competing for the third spot.

RB: Make no mistake about it. Willis McGahee is the team’s unquestioned starter. The team is getting him plenty of work early in camp while giving him the veteran treatment to keep him fresh for the regular season. McGahee has shown no signs of slowing down, running with good burst, toughness and wasting no motion. Rookie Ronnie Hillman will have to unseat Lance Ball for the backup spot. Ball is listed second on the depth chart and he has been consistently working with the second unit. Hillman has not disappointed. While Head Coach John Fox has long been deferential towards his veterans, he is clearly a fan saying, "He's explosive. We like what we've seen so far. We targeted him and we think he will be able to help us." Hillman has been working with the first team on passing downs, demonstrating his ability to make tacklers miss as well as a nifty hop cut move. Hillman should play a large role as a receiving threat in the backfield with McGahee dominating work on early downs. The key for Hillman will be holding up in pass protection. Mario Fannin was placed on IR after rupturing his Achilles tendon over the weekend. Knowshon Moreno was cleared to participate in team drills and has been running with the second-team offense after being limited to 7-on-7 drills and individual workouts in the first week. Hillman was slowed recently by a hamstring tweak, but he isn’t

expected to miss much time at all. Jeremiah Johnson is also in the hunt for a roster spot.

WR: The reports have been glowing when it comes to the Broncos top three receivers. Eric Decker and Peyton Manning appear to be in sync and developing excellent chemistry. Demaryius Thomas still has some work to do to get on the same page with Manning, but that shouldn’t be a damper considering all of the accolades he’s received such as improving his route running. He received praise from future Hall of Fame corner Champ Bailey. “He's running his routes as crisp as can be and he's catching the ball," said Bailey. Decker’s route running and sure-handedness have Mike Klis of the Denver Post believing that he’ll be an early favorite target for Manning. Decker has beat Champ in 1 on 1s several times in practices while catching passes from Manning that covered the entire route tree. Decker did miss a little practice time with a sore groin. He returned on Friday and was the star of the team’s red zone drill. Meanwhile, Manning confirmed that Thomas is also going to be a receiver the team will feature. "His size, and strength and speed just allow you to do certain things with him that other players just can't do," Manning said.

Caldwell appears to be leading the competition with Brandon Stokley in the slot. Caldwell has shown excellent speed as well as a quickly developing rapport with Manning as well. Stokley is a trusted target for Manning but he has lost a step and doesn’t offer much after the catch. There is a gap between those four and the rest of the receivers including holdover Matt Willis. Gerell Robinson and Greg Orton are hoping to earn a roster spot, but will have an uphill battle to do so.

TE: The Broncos expect to use two tight ends frequently with Jacob Tamme being more of the “move” tight end and Joel Dreessen handling the traditional in-line, blocking role. Cecil Lammey suggested that Tamme could wind up being the team’s No. 2 receiver with 70+ catches being a real possibility while Dreessen’s could be featured more around the red zone, equaling or even surpassing Tamme’s touchdown production. "They’re going to pose a real problem (for defenses)," safety Mike Adams said. Virgil Green was suspended for four games after violating the league’s PED policy and Julius Thomas (ankle surgery) has been practicing, but he still seems to be favoring or at least not trusting his ankle. Cecil Lammey reported that Thomas has shown poor body language at times, but he appears to be bigger this year. He continues to flash his plus athleticism, and good hands, but he is not performing consistently and he’ll go into the season no better than third on the depth chart.

Defense: Jack Del Rio spent the first week of camp toying with the various pieces he has to get an idea for the various combinations he’ll want to use during the season. The team has big plans for second-round DT Derek Wolfe. Del Rio will use him mainly at defensive end while sliding him inside for the nickel package. "I like the way he started camp,” Jack Del Rio said, "He's going to be swimming for a while because of all that missed time. He'll be a mismatch, he can slide down and play tackle and will do both." Drayton Florence has worked at right corner, opposite Bailey with Tracey Porter

working inside in the nickel, although Florence has also worked as the nickel corner. SS Quinton Carter expects to miss two preseason games after having his knee scoped, opening the door for Rahim Moore to get more work. Mike Adams is working with the first team at free safety and the team signed Jim Leonhard to a one-year deal over the weekend. Jason Hunter earned a promotion to the starting lineup at defensive end, surpassing Robert Ayers, last year’s starter. "I love Jason," said Del Rio. "Jason is a rugged defensive lineman; that's what we're looking for with our defensive line. He plays with great temperament, toughness, attitude. Every day he brings it with passion."

Special Teams: Initially hot with the franchise tag, kicker Matt Prater got his long-term deal in early July: four-years, $13 million, with a signing bonus of nearly $3 million. He noted afterward, "It's something I've been working for since I was a little kid. I'm super excited and very thankful to Mr. Bowlen, Mr. Elway, and the entire organization." He’s gotten off to a slow start in camp, including two misses wide right in a scrimmage. Punter Britton Colquitt also had a miscue last week, tossing an interception on a fake field goal. Long snapper Lonie Paxton has not had any issues.

For more detailed 4reports from Broncos camp, go here to read our own Cecil Lammey’s practice notes and daily recaps.

Broncos Depth ChartQB: Peyton Manning, Brock Osweiler, Caleb Hanie, Adam WeberRB: Willis McGahee, Lance Ball, Ronnie Hillman (3RB), Knowshon Moreno (3RB), Jeremiah Johnson, Xavier Omon, Mario Fannin (IR)FB: Chris Gronkowski, Austin SylvesterWR: Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker, Andre Caldwell, Brandon Stokley, Matthew Willis, Jason Hill, Greg Orton, Mark Dell, Gerrell Robinson, Tyler Grisham, Cameron KenneyTE: Jacob Tamme, Joel Dreessen, Julius Thomas, Virgil Green (susp), Cornelius Ingram, Anthony MillerLT: Ryan Clady, Ryan HarrisLG: Zane Beadles, CJ DavisC: Philip Blake, JD WaltonRG: Chris Kuper, Wayne TribueRT: Orlando Franklin, Tony HillsK: Matt PraterDT: Ty Warren, Kevin Vickerson, Justin Bannan, Derek Wolfe, Mitch Unrein, Sealver Siliga, Ben Garland (res)DE: Elvis Dumervil, Jason Hunter, Robert Ayers, Malik Jackson, Jeremy Beal, Jamie BlatnickMLB: Joe Mays, Nate Irving, Mike Mohamed (S)OLB: Von Miller (S), D.J. Williams (W) (susp), Wesley Woodyard (W), Cyril Obiozor, Danny Trevathan, Keith Brooking, Jerry Franklin, Eliot Coffey, Steven JohnsonCB: Champ Bailey, Tracy Porter, Drayton Florence, Chris Harris, Syd'quan Thompson, Omar Bolden, Ramzee Robinson, Tony Carter, Cornelius BrownS: Mike Adams (FS), Quinton Carter (SS), Rahim Moore (FS), Jim Leonhard (SS), David Bruton (SS), Rafael Bush, Duke Ihenacho

Detroit Lions

QB: Matthew Stafford was finally able to stay healthy last season and his performance last year showed why the Lions selected him with the first overall pick in the 2009 NFL draft. Stafford threw for more than 5000 yards with 41 TDs and 16 interceptions last season and led the Lions to their first playoff appearance since 1999. Wide receiver Nate Burleson was impressed with Stafford's improvement last year. "For him to make the transition from a gun slinging, throw it as fast as you can every time I get the ball, to a guy that can pick and choose how to utilize his strength, that kind of put him in the more elite quarterbacks," Burleson said. When training camp opened last week, Stafford picked up where he left off last year, hitting wide receiver Calvin Johnson for a 60-yard touchdown. "It was nice to get off to a good start in camp," Stafford said. Shaun Hill signed a two-year contract in May and will return as Stafford's backup. Rookie Kellen Moore appears to have the inside track for the third quarterback spot over R.J. Archer. Moore was 50-3 as a starter at Boise State.

RB: The Lions enter camp with numerous questions at the running back spot. Chief among them is the condition of Jahvid Best, who suffered two concussions last season. Best has yet to be cleared for contact and Schwartz hinted that Best won't be cleared any time soon. “The only thing I’d say is we’re measuring Jahvid in weeks, not days,” Schwartz said. "A lot of these guys are day-to-day. We’re measuring his progress in weeks.” Mikel Leshoure, who missed all of last season with a torn Achilles, has not practiced for more than a week due to a hamstring injury. Leshoure will miss the first two regular-season games because of a suspension. With Best and Leshoure out, Kevin Smith has been practicing with the starters and is likely to play significant snaps early in the season. Smith has had an excellent camp and reportedly looks stronger and faster than ever. Joique Bell, who played in college at nearby Wayne State University, is battling for a roster spot. Bell should have a good chance to make the initial roster with Leshoure suspended for the first two games.

WR: Calvin Johnson is coming off a career year that saw him rack up 96 receptions for 1681 yards and 16 TDs. He added 211 yards and two touchdowns in the playoff loss to the Saints. Johnson believes he can be even better this year, saying, "There is always room for growth", Johnson said. Titus Young, who was sent home from organized team activities after a fight with teammate Louis Delmas, has been very impressive in the early days of camp. "He's made a lot of plays out here," Schwartz said. Rookie Ryan Broyles was activated from the physically unable to perform list last week. Broyles, who suffered a torn ACL nine months ago, was considered questionable to be ready for week one. He is likely to begin the year as the number four receiver behind Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, and Titus Young. Several receivers that are battling for the fifth receiver spot are having strong camps, including Maurice Stovall, Jarrett Dillard, Lance Long, and rookie Patrick Edwards.

TE: Brandon Pettigrew had a career-high 83 catches last year and was a big part of the short passing attack that was necessitated by an at-times ineffective running game. “When we aren't running the ball well, I'm an extension of the run game,” Pettigrew said. Pettigrew averaged 9.4 yards per reception last year, which was the second-lowest among tight ends with at least 30 catches. Pettigrew wants to make more plays down the field and the Lions have made it a point in camp to get Pettigrew involved more downfield. Tony Scheffler returns and will man the tight end spot opposite Pettigrew when the Lions use two tight ends.

Defense: After holding out for the first eight days of training camp, defensive end Cliff Avril signed his one-year, $10.6 million franchise tender and reported to training camp on Sunday. Avril said holding out into the season was never a consideration, saying, "I don't think I'm going to walk away from $10.6 million." Reserve defensive end Willie Young filled in for Avril and is expected to see more playing time this season. Nick Fairley is healthy and also having a strong camp, but he faces a possible suspension because of two offseason arrests. Ndamukong Suh is expected to play defensive end in certain packages this year. "That's the great thing about our defensive line", Suh said. "Everyone is interchangeable." Stephen Tulloch has yet to practice because of tendonitis in his knee. Rookie linebackers Travis Lewis and Jahir Whitehead have been impressive during camp. Lewis has spent some time with the starters in place of Tulloch. Safety Louis Delmas continues to be sidelined with an injury to his left knee. Delmas missed the last five regular season games last year with an injury to his right knee. Cornerback Chris Houston suffered a strained hamstring while covering Calvin Johnson during practice. Veteran Erik Coleman began camp as the starter at strong safety over Amari Spievey. Rookie cornerback Chris Greenwood has been placed on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing abdominal surgery. Fellow rookie cornerback Bill Bentley has been impressive in camp and saw some snaps with the starters.

Special Teams: Preseason will feature a punter/holder competition between Ryan Donahue, coming off a quad injury, and veteran Ben Graham. There is no question who’ll be kicking, as kicker Jason Hanson himself assured, “I'm working so that my goal is, if I'm going to play, to show up and have them be like, 'He's the same.' And if ever that day comes where it's not, then maybe I'll be fishing in the fall. But it's not going to be this year. And that's always just been my goal, to make sure I can still kick like I always have."

Lions Depth ChartQB: Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill, Kellen Moore, A.J. ArcherRB: Kevin Smith, Mikel LeShoure (susp), Jahvid Best (inj), Joique Bell, Stefan Logan (KR/PR), Jerome Harrison (res)FB: Keiland Williams, James BryantWR: Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Titus Young (KR/PR), Ryan Broyles, Maurice Stovall, Jarett Dillard, Lance Long, Patrick Edwards, Terrence Tolliver, Dominique Curry, Nate HughesTE: Brandon Pettigrew, Tony Scheffler, Will

Heller, Nathan OverbayLT: Riley Reiff, Jeff BackusLG: Rob Sims, Jacques McClendonC: Dominic Raiola, Dan GerberyRG: Stephen Peterman, Dylan GandyRT: Gosder Cherilus, Johnny CulbreathK: Jason HansonDT: Ndamukong Suh, Corey Williams, Sammie Lee Hill, Nick Fairley, Andre FluellenDE: Cliff Avril, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Lawrence Jackson, Willie Young, Ronnell Lewis, Everette Brown, Ugo ChinasaMLB: Stephen Tulloch, Ashlee PalmerOLB: Deandre Levy (W), Justin Durant (S), Douglas Hogue (S), Tahir Whitehead,Travis Lewis, Slade Norris, Korey BosworthCB: Chris Houston, Dwight Bentley, Jacob Lacey, Alphonso Smith, Chris Greenwood, Jonte Green, Justin Miller, Drew Coleman, Ross WeaverS: Louis Delmas (FS) (inj), Amari Spievey (SS), Erik Coleman (SS), Sean Jones (SS), Don Carey, John Wendling

Green Bay Packers

QB: Aaron Rodgers has thrown more interceptions than usual during the first week of training camp, but the coaching staff isn't concerned – the team is installing a new set of plays and some hiccups are expected early in training camp. Rodgers is on record as concerned about the first round of cuts coming this week - “It’s tough,” Rodgers said. “This is going to be I think the most difficult cuts that Ted and his staff, and Mike have to do because we’re deep.”

RB: The Packers' offensive line is a worry heading into their first preseason game - starter Marshall Newhouse is out because of a concussion and backup Derek Sherrod is still on the physically unable to perform list while recovering from a broken lower right leg incurred last season - Herb Taylor worked at left tackle on Sunday, August 5, but the team may slide over T.J. Lang if necessary. “It’s not what you want to be doing, you want the guys you think you’re going to play games with to be working together and fitting in,” center Jeff Saturday said Sunday. “(But) very few times do you go a whole season with all five guys playing every snap of every game, so guys are going to have to get accustomed to moving around and making adjustments.” Meanwhile, the starting running back job is up in the air. James Starks was reportedly having an impressive training camp in the early part of last week, including a couple of nice rushes with one resulting in finding the end zone. However, a report on August 3, 2012 indicated that even though Starks has taken around three times as many snaps as Alex Green, it has been Green who has been the more dynamic performer. The medical staff has limited Green's reps so far because of his reconstructive knee surgery (November 9, 2011). A positional battle is brewing here as of the second week of training camp. FB John Kuhn has yet to practice in pads due to a lingering knee injury.

WR: Greg Jennings has been tearing up the defense during the first week of training camp, with multiple long touchdowns to his credit. In Sunday’s scrimmage, however, he was diagnosed with a concussion. The team will follow protocol there, but it’s not a concern as he has no history with them. Randall Cobb, a second-year pro, is making waves early in camp and may force his way onto the field due to his performances so far. He is reportedly blowing past defenders on a regular basis. Tori Gurley was making plays in the red zone during the first week of training camp, but suffered a groin injury and was reduced to using a cane in the locker room at the end of the week. Gurley is battling for the sixth wide receiver spot on the roster.

TE: Jermichael Finley has been limited due to a concussion – he missed two full practices and was only able to partially participate in a third last week. So far, he hasn't made any big impact plays – he needs to get back in a groove with Aaron Rodgers and that hasn't happened so far this training camp. Meanwhile, second-year D.J. Williams has been identified as one of the team’s top performers in camp.

Defense: After the Packers' first night practice (Thursday August 2), head coach Mike McCarthy was reportedly unhappy with the high number of pre-snap penalties by the defense and the lack of energy to start practice. The defense won just six of 18 rushes in the one-on-one pass rush drill Thursday. Three of its victories were due to NT B.J. Raji, who wiped out G-C Tommie Draheim twice and G Don Barclay once. Raji says his hands are quicker after he did a lot of boxing during the off-season for the first time. So far in camp, rookie CB Casey Hayward has been impressive in coverage and in making plays - “I got three (interceptions) so far,” he stated Thursday. CB Davon House has had more first team reps in the four-way competition to start across from Tramon Williams - Jarett Bush and Sam Shields are the other two players in the mix. Rookie Nick Perry finds himself in a competitive situation with Erik Walden at left outside linebacker on the Green Bay Packers' defense. Walden is suspended for the first game of the season, opening the door for Perry to claim a starting position if he impresses during training camp. DE Mike Neal has been garnering praise from DL coach Mike Trgovac "Right now, Mike kind of looks like he did his rookie year," said Trgovac. "Looks like he's got his confidence back. Looks like a healthy Mike Neal." However, remember that Neal is suspended for the first four games of 2012 - he is someone to keep on your waiver-wire radar in IDP leagues, though.

Special Teams: Special teams coordinator Shawn Slocum recently said of kicker mason Crosby and punter Tim Masthay, “Both guys are very diligent in their work habits, and they have continued to improve the whole time I’ve been around them. Mason’s a little further along in his career, but I think what they’re doing now and the way they’re kicking the ball is a reflection on their work habits and the way they train. I’m pleased with what they’re doing.” Masthay was awarded a four-year, $5.5 million contract extension last week. Both players are spending camp adjusting to wind pattern changes resulting from stadium renovations.

Packers Depth ChartQB: Aaron Rodgers, Graham Harrell, B.J. ColemanRB: James Starks, Alex Green, Brandon Saine, Marc TylerWR: Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb (KR/PR), James Jones, Donald Driver, Diondre Borel, Tori GurleyTE: Jermichael Finley, Tom Crabtree, D.J. Williams, Ryan Taylor, Brandon Bostick, DeMarco Cosby, Andrew Quarless (inj)LT: Marshall Newhouse, Derek SherrodLG: TJ Lang, Evan Dietrich-SmithC: Jeff Saturday, Sampson GenusRG: Josh Sitton, Ray DominguezRT: Bryan Bulaga, Andrew DatkoK: Mason CrosbyNT: B.J. Raji, Daniel Muir, Johnny JonesDE: Ryan Pickett (DE/NT), Anthony Hargrove (susp), Jerel Worthy, C.J. Wilson, Mike Daniels, Phillip Merling, Mike Neal (susp), Jarius Wynn, Lawrence GuyILB: Desmond Bishop (R), A.J. Hawk (L), D.J. Smith, Rob Francois, Terrell ManningOLB: Clay Matthews (L), Nick Perry (R), Erik Walden (R), Frank Zombo (R), Dezman Moses (R), Brad Jones (L), Vic So’oto (L), Jamari Lattimore (R)CB: Charles Woodson (SS/CB), Tramon Williams (PR), Davon House, Casey Hayward, Sam Shields, Jarrett Bush, Brandion RossS: Morgan Burnett (SS), M.D. Jennings (FS), Jeron McMillian (FS), Micah Pellerin, Anthony Levine

Houston Texans

QB: A Lisfranc injury caused Matt Schaub to miss the last half of the Texans 2011 season as well as offseason OTAs, but he was on the field and practicing without restrictions at the start of training camp. Schaub opened camp with a pair of completions to Andre Johnson in 9-on-7 drills. "It was like riding a bike because we’ve been doing it for so long together now and working all summer," Schaub said of playing with Johnson. “It was good to get him the ball early and get it his way and get everyone going. It was nice to be out there." Schaub reported later in the week that physically he was feeling great, and everything was going well. The main competition for TJ Yates at backup quarterback is rookie Case Keenum, who according to head coach Gary Kubiak has been "up and down" so far after having doing well in OTAs. The team had a brief scare when standout left tackle Duane Brown suffered what turned out to be a bone bruise. Brown should return this practice this week.

RB: Though the biggest news at running back going into camp was Arian Foster’s switch to a vegan diet, the Texans running backs drew praise from coach Kubiak who said not only are Arian Foster and Ben Tate pushing each other, but that it's the best set of running backs he's ever been around. Undrafted rookies Davin Meggett and Jonathan Grimes have their work cut out for them in trying to beat out

free agent signee Justin Forsett. Forsett has been wowing the crowd during open practice sessions, breaking off several long runs in the open field. He has been displaying explosiveness and excellent vision along with sure hands as a receiver out of the backfield.

WR: Andre Johnson has created a bit of anxiety in fantasy owners first by having his knee scoped in early May, and then by being held out of practice for a groin injury in his first week of practice. Coach Kubiak said of the situation that they were just being overly cautious, and Johnson is expected back to practice after sitting out a week. The injury to Johnson gave second year wide out Lestar Jean more repetitions with the first unit, drawing mixed praise from the coaching staff. Kubiak was impressed with his work, but also indicated he needs to make plays when he has the opportunity. On Wednesday, Jean joined DeVier Posey with the second squad, while Keshawn Martin and Kevin Walter played with the first unit, with Bryant Johnson as a third wideout. Martin is so far making the most of the opportunity, drawing praise from coaches and teammates alike. Matt Schaub said of Martin, “You can really see him working, and he just makes plays. He creates a lot of separation from corners to give you a chance to make a throw where he can catch it and make something happen.” Backup T.J. Yates agreed, saying, “K-Mart is so quick on the inside. He’s fierce in and out of his cuts, which is really going to help us, I think, get a different look.” Lestar Jean then rose to Martin’s challenge at the end of the first week, looking like one of the stars of camp as he had a number of catches including a deep ball from Schaub and also a one-handed catch against Brice McCain.

TE: Though tight end is a position to watch for the Texans with the departure of Joel Dreessen to Denver, the first week of practice was relatively quiet. The team is giving Owen Daniels more rest in camp this year, which gives backup Garrett Graham more opportunity to show he can fill in for Dreessen. Kubiak was impressed with Graham’s play, saying Graham is one of the more improved players on the team right now. Graham has looked good at both blocking and receiving, which he will need if he wants to earn significant snaps.

Defense: Houston’s defense has started with some nicks, the worst being the dislocated left elbow of defensive end J.J. Watt. The coaching staff says they know what they will get from Watt and will not rush him back, but expect Watt will be ready to play week one. Another injury is inside linebacker Darryl Sharpton’s injured hip, which will keep him out three weeks. In addition, going down to a hamstring was cornerback Kareem Jackson, though he is set to return this week. Along with the injuries has been some standout play, especially by cornerback Brice McCain, who was called the day’s MVP by defensive backs coach Vance Joseph after McCain broke up a fade in the end zone. Second year player Brandon Harris also drew praise from Kubiak who called him a different player after his improved play in OTAs and training camp. First round pick outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus is also benefiting from the team resting

Connor Barwin in a number of practices, and by accounts, he has looked outstanding so far.

Special Teams: Eight days into camp, rookie kicker Randy Bullock was 23 of 28 (82.1%) on field goals while veteran Shayne Graham was 13 of 17 (76.5%). Head coach Gary Kubiak commented, “I think it’s a battle. I think Randy has had quite a few good days, had a couple misses the other day. I really like the way he works at his craft and he has a strong leg. Shayne is a veteran guy, pretty automatic inside the 40 and those types of things. He’s missed a day or so with some leg soreness and those types of things. They can both kick in this league. Which one is going to kick for us? We’ll find out.”

Texans Depth ChartQB: Matt Schaub, T.J. Yates, Case Keenum, John BeckRB: Arian Foster, Ben Tate, Justin Forsett, Jonathan Grimes, Davin MeggettFB: James Casey (TE), Derrell Smith, Jason Ford, Moran NorrisWR: Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, Lestar Jean, Keshawn Martin (PR), Devier Posey, Bryant Johnson, Jeff Maehl, Juaquin Iglesias, Trindon Holliday (KR)TE: Owen Daniels, Garrett GrahamLT: Duane Brown, Nick MondekLG: Wade Smith, Brandon BrooksC: Chris Myers, Ben JonesRG: Antoine Caldwell, ShelleyRT: Rashad Butler, Derek NewtonK: Randy Bullock, Shayne GrahamNT: Shaun Cody, Earl MitchellDE: J.J. Watt, Antonio Smith, Tim Jamison, Jared Crick, Ra'Shon Harris, Mitch King, Keith BrownerILB: Brian Cushing, Darryl Sharpton (inj), Bradie James, Tim Dobbins, Mister Alexander, Keyaron FoxOLB: Connor Barwin (W), Brooks Reed (S), Whitney Mercilus (W), Bryan Braman (S), Jesse NadingCB: Johnathan Joseph, Kareem Jackson, Brice McCain, Brandon Harris, Sherrick McManis, Roc CarmichaelS: Glover Quin (SS), Danieal Manning (FS/KR), Troy Nolan (SS), Quintin Demps (FS), Alan Ball, Shiloh Keo, Torri Williams

Indianapolis Colts

QB: First overall pick Andrew Luck is living up to the hype. Luck’s control of the offense has been called Peyton-esque, though he still has the same growing pains that any rookie quarterback goes through, including forcing balls into coverage resulting in interceptions. Overall, the impressions are definitely positive. Head coach Chuck Pagano said of Luck, “He’s got such great pocket presence. He’s building chemistry with every one of those guys out there. He’s spreading the wealth. He keeps his eyes down the field. He was sliding the pocket so he’s doing a nice job, and the offensive line, everybody else is doing a great job protecting

him.” Backup Drew Stanton has had his high and low points. On Thursday, Stanton led a touchdown drive that included a pair of passes to tight end Dwayne Allen and a 25-yard catch by wide receiver Jabin Sambrano. During a series of third down drills, Stanton looked indecisive and held the ball too long. The Colts offensive line depth has taken a slight hit with guards Ben Ijalana and A.J. Edds going on Injured Reserve.

RB: Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians is looking to establish a physical running game, and Donald Brown starts out atop the depth chart with the departure of Joseph Addai. Brown welcomes the change in philosophy, saying, “Just downhill, smash-mouth running. That’s what I’m comfortable with, that’s what I’m excited about and I love this system.” He is facing challenges from Mewelde Moore, Delone Carter, and first year running back Darren Evans. The physical style being sought suits Carter quite well, and he and Evans both converted on goal line opportunities on Saturday, two of the few high points for the offense that day as the defense then rattled off three straight stops.

WR: With the Colts having such a youthful roster, Austin Collie quickly found himself as one of the oldest players in the huddle. Early in camp, head coach Chuck Pagano said he was pleased “to see that chemistry start to unfold so quickly” between Collie and Luck. Collie and Reggie Wayne both have been working with Luck on things like the best placement for the ball based on coverage. Donnie Avery was missing on a few balls with Luck earlier in the week before turning it on Friday with a deep touchdown catch. Avery looks like he might be regaining the form he showed earlier in his career. A rookie to keep an eye on is LaVon Brazill who reportedly is already gobbling up first-team reps.

TE: Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians is looking to use two or three tight ends this year, including lining them up as wide receivers, running backs or full backs. Rookies Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen have been an impressive duo so far in camp. Fleener is the classic tall tight end who can work the middle of the field. Allen’s better ability up field has had him lining up at wide receiver, and Allen is looking like he might be the better of the two despite having been drafted later.

Defense: Kevin Thomas received a shot at the starting cornerback job but fell short. Thursday the Colts sent the entire roster a message that you play or you are gone when the team traded Thomas to the Eagles for linebackers Moise Fokou and Greg Lloyd. The move also might signal a trend of Coach Pagano and GM Ryan Grigson adding former Eagles and Ravens, teams they were previously associated with, as they switch to a 3-4 defense. This has cleared the way for Justin King to move into the starting corner spot opposite Jerraud Powers. King’s promotion lets Cassius Vaughn lock in as the slot cornerback, but the Colts secondary is not a strength. Defensive end Corey Redding has been vocal and may be emerging as a team leader. He is not only mentoring younger players, but also helping veterans Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney who are converting to outside linebacker.

Special Teams: While camp leg P Brian Stahovich and camp wrist LS Matt Overton are new to the team, many things are also new for the returner specialist starters – kicker Adam Vinatieri, punter/holder/kickoff-specialist Pat McAfee, and long snapper Justin Snow. Vinatieri commented, “Across the board from the (general manager) all the way down to the rookie free agents, there are a lot of new faces out on the field. It’s also a lot of fun. The intensity level is there. Coach Pagano is keeping it fun. It’s a lot of work. They’re working us pretty good. He’s also keeping the attitude light.”

Colts Depth ChartQB: Andrew Luck, Drew Stanton, Chandler HarnishRB: Donald Brown, Vick Ballard, Mewelde Moore, Delone Carter, Deji Karim (KR),Darren EvansWR: Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie, Donnie Avery, LaVon Brazil, TY Hilton, Quan Cosby (PR), Jeremy Ross, Jarred Fayson, Kris Adams, Griff WhalenTE: Coby Fleener, Dwayne Allen, Andre Smith, Justin SnowLT: Anthony Castonzo, Jeff LinkenbachLG: Mike McGylnn, Mike TepperC: Samson Satele, AQ ShipleyRG: Ben Ijalana, Joe ReitzRT: Winston Justice, Justin AndersonK: Adam VinatieriDT: Antonio Johnson (NT), Brandon McKinney (NT), Josh Chapman (NT), Jason ShirleyDE: Cory Redding, Tyler Brayton, Eric Foster, Fili Moala, Drake Nevis, Ricardo Mathews, Mario AddisonILB: Pat Angerer (M), Kavell Conner (W), Kevin Bentley, Moise Fokou, Greg Lloyd, Larry Lumpkin, A.J. Edds (IR)OLB: Robert Mathis (L), Dwight Freeney (R), Tim Fugger, Jerry Hughes, Brandon Peguese, Korey Lindsey, Jerrell Freeman, Justin Hickman, Scott Lutrus, Marqio HarveyCB: Jerraud Powers, Chris L. Rucker, Terrence Johnson, Cassius Vaughn (inj),DJ Johnson, Mike Holmes, Brandon King, Korey LindseyS: Antoine Bethea (FS), Tom Zbikowski (SS), David Caldwell (SS), Joe Lefeged (KR), Mike Newton, Jermale Hines

Jacksonville Jaguars

QB: Training camp started with second year quarterback Blaine Gabbert needing to make steps forward from a poor rookie season. Judging from the first week of camp, if he has made such steps, they may be small ones. Accuracy still seems to be one issue for Gabbert, while decision-making is another. The coaching staff stressing the latter has led to scrutiny over how much Gabbert is scrambling in practice. Despite the rough start to camp, Gabbert performed well in an intra-squad scrimmage, completing 10 of 13 passes for 91 yards, including a one-yard touchdown to tight end Zach Miller during the first half regular game play. The second half was situational-based play, with Gabbert throwing a trio of scores. “I think he had a good night,” head coach Mike

Mularkey said of Gabbert. “I’m not quick to judge, because I really like to dissect it when I watch the film. I just felt like out here he had a good night. He made some nice throws.” There are injury woes to Gabbert’s pass protection already, starting guard Will Rackley is out for a month with a high ankle sprain and left tackle Eugene Monroe is also out with swelling in his knee, but has been working on the sideline.

RB: The biggest news in Jaguars camp is the holdout of the best player on their roster, running back Maurice Jones-Drew. General Manager Gene Smith has stayed in contact with Jones-Drew during training camp, but the team is unwilling to extend his contract. With Jones-Drew out, Rashad Jennings is receiving the first team reps as the new offensive system gets installed. “It looks like he is very comfortable with the offense,” Mularkey said of Jennings. “He understands what we're trying to do, he's playing fast, he's seeing things with the run game, and even in protections he's doing better. There's no thinking going on like there was earlier when he first got here.” Jennings played well in the scrimmage, including runs of 14 and 16 yards and several catches.

WR: As if the holdout of Jones-Drew was not enough distraction for the Jaguars, Justin Blackmon missed the first week of camp as the lone remaining rookie first rounder not to come to terms on a contract. Thankfully, the team signed Blackmon to a 4-year, $18mm deal on Monday, and the deal has protections in place to offset the risk Blackmon’s alcohol troubles may cause. In the meantime, Cecil Shorts has joined Laurent Robinson with the first string offense. His coach and teammates have praised Shorts’ route running, but dropped passes have been an ongoing issue for him. Robinson meanwhile has struggled early on, both with his play and with a possible concussion. Early in camp, Coach Mularkey said that Robinson needs to make more plays. Robinson played in the scrimmage after being cleared of his concussion, and hauled in a 21-yard pass from Gabbert. Mike Thomas returned to the Jaguars this offseason, but has slid down the depth chart.

TE: Marcedes Lewis struggled with the Jacksonville weather early in camp but still made catches despite the issues. Thursday’s practice included a red zone drill in which Lewis was heavily targeted and showed some of the 2010 form that resulted in his career high 10 touchdowns. Zach Miller started camp as the backup tight end, though Colin Cloherty is also getting work as the number two. In the scrimmage, Zach Miller had a touchdown catch in the game simulation first half, while Cloherty failed to bring in some catchable passes.

Defense: The Jaguars return a solid unit of veterans on defense, though injuries are already starting to take a toll. Linebacker Clint Sessions started camp on the Physically-Unable-to-Perform list due to concussion issues. Russell Allen has taken his spot on the depth chart in the meantime. Linebacker Daryl Smith suffered a groin injury not believed to be serious, while defensive end Austen Lane had to be helped from the field with a foot injury. Not all of the news is bad however. Rookie defensive end Andre Branch has

received praise from his coaches for his stout play and athletic ability to cover ground. Undrafted rookie linebacker Julian Stanford is playing well and may work his way onto the roster as a special teamer. Finally, starting defensive tackle Terrance Knighton’s vision is nearly back to perfect after an offseason eye injury. He is expected to be ready for the season even if he is not yet practicing.

Special Teams: Although it went down to the wire, kicker Josh Scobee will be playing under a new four-year $13.8 million contract rather than under the franchise tag. He commented, “I like to take things easy and not take myself too seriously but at the same time work as hard as I can to be the best kicker I can. So I’m sure my teammates expect me to make every kick, and that’s my goal so that’s what I’ll work to do.” Rookie punter/holder Bryan Anger has shown a few flashes of his draft status, with a few five-second hang time punts and a touchdown pass on a fake punt.

Jaguars Depth ChartQB: Blaine Gabbert, Chad Henne, Jordan Palmer, Nate EnderleRB: Maurice Jones-Drew, Rashad Jennings, Montell Owens, DuJuan Harris, Richard Murphy, Jalen Parmale, Keith TostonFB: Greg Jones, Brock Bolen, Will Ta'ufo'ouWR: Laurent Robinson, Justin Blackmon, Lee Evans, Cecil Shorts (PR), Mike Thomas, Chastin West, Taylor Price, Brian Robiskie, Mike Brown, Charles GilbertTE: Marcedes Lewis, Zach Potter, Zach Miller, Colin ClohertyLT: Eugene Monroe, Daniel BaldridgeLG: Will Rackley, John EstesC: Brad Meester, Mike BrewsterRG: Uche Nwaneri, Jason SpitzRT: Eben Britton, Guy WhimperK: Josh ScobeeDT: Tyson Alualu, Terrance Knighton, C.J. Mosley, D'Anthony Smith, Jeris Pendleton, Corvey Irvin, Odrick RayDE: Jeremy Mincey, Austen Lane, Andre Branch, George Selvie, Aaron Morgan, John Chick (inj)MLB: Paul Posluszny, Joshua JonesOLB: Daryl Smith (S), Clint Session (W), Russell Allen (W/M), Brandon Marshall, Kyle Bosworth, Donovan RichardCB: Rashean Mathis, Derek Cox, Aaron Ross, Kevin Rutland, Mike Harris, William Middleton, Ashton Youboty, T.J. Heath, Roderick Issac, Trumaine McBride, Leigh TorrenceS: Dawan Landry (SS), Dwight Lowery (CB/FS), Christopher Prosinski, Courtney Greene, Jeremiah Brown

Kansas City Chiefs

QB: Any questions about a quarterback controversy in Kansas City have been put to bed early, partially because of the performance of Matt Cassel, but more because of the performance of his backups. After a solid showing at OTAs, second year quarterback back Ricky Stanzi has struggled mightily and Brady Quinn has not looked like much of a threat either. Cassel has used the absence of Dwayne Bowe to form to form a nice bond with second year wide out Jonathan Baldwin, the two have hooked up on deep passes several times throughout the first week of camp. Quinn has the early edge on the back up job with Stanzi looking like he has a long way to go.

RB: Jamaal Charles is healthy and trusting his knee. While the Chiefs have been cautious with their star running back, he shows no ill effects from last year’s knee injury. Head coach Romeo Crennel has stated he’d like to get 500 touches for Charles and Peyton Hillis, and Charles looks more than able to hold up his end of the bargain. The Chiefs look like they will be creative with Hillis, who has been lining up all over the field, but especially active in the passing game and short yardage. Cyrus Gray and Shaun Draughn are battling for the third running back spot and both figure to see a lot of action in the team’s first couple of preseason games.

Veteran guard Ryan Lilja has also been working at center in case something happens to second year center Rodney Hudson. Hudson has a firm lock on the starting job, but very little experience and no one behind him. Eric Winston has looked like the major upgrade he was expected to be. The biggest difference to this point is how much better the entire unit looks when the Chiefs don’t have to slide help the way of their right tackle.

WR: From the first day of camp Matt Cassel had a great connection with Steve Breaston, but as camp has gone on the focus has turned more and more to Baldwin. The team refuses to discuss holdout Dwayne Bowe in any capacity and Baldwin’s play as of late if making it easier to avoid that conversation. Unlike last year, Baldwin has come in with a workmanlike effort and let his play do the talking. Dexter McCluster appears to be back to working exclusively with the wide receivers, but even he admits he doesn’t know what his position on the team is. Fourth round pick Devon Wylie has looked like he can do a lot of the same things McCluster can, causing many to wonder if McCluster’s roster spot may be in question.

TE: Tony Moeaki seems to be fully recovered from his ACL injury, but the team is still being relatively cautious in getting him fully involved. Free agent acquisition Kevin Boss acknowledged that the Chiefs’ offensive game plan was part of what brought him to Kansas City, calling it a “tight-end friendly offense” with lots of two tight end sets. Both players figure to be heavily involved in the game plan. The roster battle for the third tight end spot is a three way battle between Steve Maneri, Jake O’Connell and free agent rookie Time Biere. Biere is going to have to show a lot in the way of run blocking to make the team out of camp.

Defense: Of what has been dubbed the ACL-3 (Charles, Moeaki, and Eric Berry), Berry seems to be the farthest along in his recovery and the one the Chiefs are most ready to let go full speed. Berry is just one cog in a secondary that has been downright dominant in 7-on-7 drills early on. Free agent addition Stanford Routt looks like he’ll have no trouble filling Brandon Carr’s shoes in pass coverage, assuming he can avoid the penalties he incurred last season. Brandon Flowers has been his dominant self-early in camp, but has been slowed recently by a bruised foot. Where Berry was missed the most was the run defense, where the Chiefs must improve in 2012. Early on 1st round pick Dontari Poe doesn’t look like the solution to the run game woes, he’s been used much more on passing downs. Instead it’s been Anthony Toribio at the top of the depth chart at tackle. It’s a big season for defensive linemen Tyson Jackson and Glenn Dorsey. Both need to take a major step forward this season if they’re ever going to live up to their drafts status as members of the Chiefs.

Special Teams: Rookie Matt Szymanski is filling the camp leg role, sharing the workload on placekicking, kickoffs, and punting. He and the three starters - long snapper Thomas Gafford, kicker Ryan Succop, and punter/holder Dustin Colquitt – are working under new special teams coordinator Tom McMahon. Colquitt commented on what he’s learning from the new coach, “More directional punting, I think, is something that we're kind of talking about doing. More hang, obviously... When you have good punting, and a kicker that can get good range and is good from 40-49, it's going to be good for your football team.”

Chiefs Depth ChartQB: Matt Cassel, Ricky Stanzi, Brady Quinn, Alex TanneyRB: Jamaal Charles, Peyton Hillis, Cyrus Gray, Shaun DraughnFB: Shane Bannon, Patrick DiMarcoWR: Dwayne Bowe (UFA-F), Steve Breaston, Jonathan Baldwin, Dexter McCluster (KR), Devon Wylie (PR), Junior Hemingway, Terrance Copper, Josh Bellamy, Zeke Markshausen, Jamar NewsomeTE: Kevin Boss, Tony Moeaki, Jake O'Connell, Martin Rucker (IR)LT: Branden Albert, Donald StephensonLG: Jeff Allen, Ryan LiljaC: Rodney Hudson, Rob BruggermanRG: Jon Asamoah, Darryl HarrisRT: Eric Winston, David MimsK: Ryan SuccopNT: Dontari Poe, Jerrell Powe, Amon Gordon, Anthony ToribioDE: Glenn Dorsey, Tyson Jackson, Allen Bailey, Brandon Bair, Jerome Long, Ropati Pitoitua, Lucas PattersonILB: Derrick Johnson, Jovan Belcher, Brandon Siler, Cory Greenwood, Caleb Campbell, Leon WilliamsOLB: Tamba Hali, Justin Houston, Andy Studebaker, Cameron Sheffield, Gabe Miller, Edgar JonesCB: Brandon Flowers, Stanford Routt, Javier Arenas (PR/KR), Travis Daniels, Jacques Reeves, Jalil Brown, Mikail Baker, Dominique EllisS: Eric Berry (SS), Kendrick Lewis (FS), Donald Washington (FS/CB), Abram Elam (SS), DeQuan Menzie

Miami Dolphins

QB: Matt Moore opened camp as the first-team quarterback, but when the team released its first official depth chart, David Garrard was listed first. At this point, it appears that the job is Garrard’s to lose in the preseason. There has been speculation the Dolphins could decide to keep only two quarterbacks with highly touted rookie Ryan Tannehill holding down the backup spot. Tannehill knows the Dolphins offense after playing under Mike Sherman at Texas A&M, and he was even reportedly helping the veterans learn it early in camp. The more likely scenario would have the team holding onto Moore as the backup and using him as trade bait to secure a future draft pick rather than cutting him loose with no compensation. Garrard becomes a decent sleeper in deeper leagues even though it wouldn’t surprise anyone to see Tannehill behind center sooner rather than later. Head Coach Joe Philbin has called his quarterback competition “wide open”. Armando Salguero of The Miami Herald dubbed Tannehill as the most impressive after watching Saturday’s scrimmage and Philbin praised his poise. Depending on the source, Tannehill either went 8-of-10 for 77 yards and a TD, or he went 10-of-13 for 114 yards and a TD. “I thought he did well,” Philbin said. “Again, I thought he looked comfortable. I thought he looked natural out there. It wasn't too big for him.” TE Anthony Fasano said that Tannehill doesn't really look like a rookie quarterback ... and he's only going to get better. While he generated plenty of buzz it’s worth noting that his numbers came against the 2nd and 3rd team defenses while working with the second team offense. Garrard’s (9-for-17, 57 yards, TD) performance was mediocre while Moore (10-for-20, 65 yards, TD) struggled with the second-team offense against the first-team defense. Tannehill’s performance in camp has earned him some first-team snaps, too. “It's been earned," said Philbin.

RB: Reggie Bush proclaimed that his goal is to lead the league in rushing, but he should have a difficult time reaching that goal playing in Philbin’s wide-open, fast-paced, up-tempo offense. Bush mentioned that they’ll run a lot of zone schemes, which fits him well, but Philbin has made it clear that he doesn’t build game plans with specific players in mind. Instead, he likes to spread it around. Daniel Thomas has an edge over Steve Slaton and Lamar Miller for the No. 2 job, although he’s apparently being pushed by Slaton. Miller is running behind Slaton, but he has received some first team reps and has played at a different speed than the rest of the players. Miller will have to earn his promotions up the depth chart by proving himself as a pass protector. If Miller is unable to earn the No. 2 job this year, he’ll likely move into Bush’s role in 2013 when Bush becomes a free agent. Slaton also earned some first-team reps and the coaches appear to be serious about his chances of earning a role in the team’s crowded backfield. Ryan Mahaffey is getting most of the first-team work at fullback, although rookie Jorvorskie Lane and Jerome Messam are pushing him.

WR: On the team’s first depth chart, Chad Johnson, Davone Bess and Legedu Naanee were listed as starters. Brian Hartline is on the second team, although he could regain his spot from Naanee once he returns from injury. In Saturday’s scrimmage, Johnson led all receivers with five catches for 42 yards. Johnson’s day would’ve been even better had he not dropped a touchdown from Garrard. Naanee also had a touchdown catch among his five receptions in the scrimmage. Meanwhile, Roberto Wallace and Julius Pruitt are making a case for a roster spot. Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald wrote that he has serious doubts about this cat – referring to second year Clyde Gates. Bess was the star during the first week of camp, while Salguero opined that Johnson is the best receiver on the team (right now). Sixth-round pick B.J. Cunningham may have an uphill battle to make the team’s final roster after dropping several passes throughout OTAs and early on in camp. Similarly, Rishard Matthews hasn’t been overly impressive either.

TE: Anthony Fasano may be a forgotten man in the fantasy world. He is the team’s unquestioned starter and he expects to play a key role in Philbin’s offense (just as the tight end did when he coordinated the offense in Green Bay). Charles Clay is listed as the team’s starter at fullback, although he’s also listed as a tight end. Be sure to clarify his positional status prior to your draft in PPR leagues as he could end up having some sleeper value down the road. Clay and Jeron Mastrud are ahead of rookie Michael Egnew, and Will Yeatman was recently moved to tackle. Egnew should make the roster, but he’s unlikely to play a role given his inexperience as an in-line blocker having played in Missouri’s wide open offense (think Martin Rucker and Chase Coffman here).

Defense: Sean Smith lost 24 pounds and cut his dreadlocks during the offseason as he attempts to get his career back on track. He’ll have to beat Richard Marshall to keep his starting job. Marshall was acquired during the offseason, and for now at least, he’s listed as the starter ahead of Vontae Davis in what appears to be a motivational ploy by the coaching staff to get the inconsistent corner’s attention. The defense has mostly had its way with the offense in practices. In Saturday’s scrimmage, Cameron Wake had a sack, as did Jared Odrick, who deflected a pass to end one drive. Koa Misi’s sacked stopped another and Karlos Dansby stopped another with a good play in on a pass in coverage. “I feel like the defense played well,” said Odrick, as they saw their first game-like action in Kevin Coyle’s varied system. “It’s not exactly a 4-3,” Odrick said. “There are tons of things that we were doing last year that we’re doing this year, and we played a true 3-4 last year. It’s a very diverse defense, and I think we’re all falling into our roles at a perfect time.”

Special Teams: The Dolphins kept their specialist trio intact, recently signing punter Brandon Fields to a four-year contract extension worth $13.3 million. Kicker Dan Carpenter has had a quiet yet productive camp, which is to be expected per his wife Kaela, “Well, Dan is pretty quiet so the public probably doesn't know too much about him period. He isn't really the chatty type... he is always perfectly composed while on the field. If I was him, I would be a nervous wreck out there. Not

Dan! He is calm as can be regardless of the situation. I don't know how he does it.”

Dolphins Depth ChartQB: David Garrard, Matt Moore, Ryan Tannehill, Pat DevlinRB: Reggie Bush (3RB/SD), Daniel Thomas, Lamar Miller, Steve Slaton, Marcus Thigpen, Jonas Gray, Jerome MessamFB: Charles Clay (TE), Ryan Mahaffey, Jorvorskie Lane, Jerome MessamWR: Chad Johnson, Legedu Naanee, Davone Bess (PR), Brian Hartline (inj),Marlon Moore, Roberto Wallace, B.J. Cunningham, Clyde Gates (KR), Jeff Fuller,Rishard Matthews, Chris Hogan, Julius PruittTE: Anthony Fasano (inj), Jeron Mastrud, Michael Egnew, Les BrownLT: Jake Long, Will BarkerLG: Richie Incognito, Ray FeingaC: Mike Pouncey, Ryan CookRG: John Jerry, Nate GarnerRT: Jonathan Martin, Lydon MurthaK: Dan CarpenterDT: Paul Soliai (NT), Randy Starks, Tony McDaniel, Kheeston Randall, Isaako Aaitui, Ryan BakerDE: Cameron Wake (W), Jared Odrick, Olivier Vernon, Johnathan Freeny, Marcus ForstonMLB: Karlos Dansby, Jamaal Westerman, Austin SpitlerOLB: Koa Misi (S), Kevin Burnett (W), Gary Guyton (W), Josh Kaddu, Jason Trusnik (S)CB: Sean Smith, Richard Marshall, Vontae Davis, Nolan Carroll, Quinten Lawrence, Jonathan Wade, Vince Agnew, Marcus BrownS: Reshad Jones (FS), Chris Clemons (SS), Tyrell Johnson (SS), Jimmy Wilson (FS), Tyrone Culver (SS/FS), Anderson Russell (SS), Kelcie McCray (IR)

Minnesota Vikings

QB: Heading into his second season, Christian Ponder appears to have improved by leaps and bounds, at least according to WR Percy Harvin. “The way he's reading routes, getting the ball out quick -- way quicker than last year,” Harvin said. “It's helping the offense be faster. Him having the confidence in throwing us the ball way before we get out of our breaks. In the past, you might see the ball hitting us in the face because we weren't quite used to [his timing]. As a receiver, that's what you want: as soon as you come out of your break, the ball's right on you. We couldn't get that rhythm last year, but I think we are headed that way this year.” He has become more of a leader and his confidence is much higher. “There's no comparison, whatsoever between this camp and last” Ponder said. “Last year not knowing any of my teammates, not knowing the playbook that well, my surroundings, the staff -- and now I know everybody. I've got great relationships with the players and coaches… It's a world of difference. I just feel so much more comfortable. Everyone feels more comfortable and confident in what they're doing.” Some of Ponder’s

improvement probably has a lot to do with having a full offseason this year, although as a young quarterback it’s obviously a work in progress. The first-team defense has generally got the better of the offense, particularly early in camp during two-minute, 11-on-11 drills. Ponder completed seven straight short passes, but the defense didn’t allow the offense past the 30-yard line as time expired. In Saturday night’s practice, Ponder found Harvin on a slant for a TD, but was not thrilled when he overthrew Jerome Simpson on a deep post. "At this level," Ponder said, "you can't miss those." Joe Webb and Sage Rosenfels are competing for the backup spot while McLeod Bethel-Thompson returns for his second stint in Vikings camp.

RB: Adrian Peterson continues to work hard with an eye on playing in the season opener. He’s currently on the active/PUP list but is reportedly getting closer to being activated. The team is being cautious with him even if all signs have been resoundingly positive regarding his rehabilitation and outlook. Peterson’s lone setback wasn’t even knee-related. He was hospitalized after suffering an allergic reaction last Monday after eating some bad jambalaya. He returned to camp quickly, though, and he’s been making cuts on his rebuilt knee off to the side. Meanwhile, Toby Gerhart added some bulk to his upper-body to prepare himself for a bigger workload early in the season while Peterson works his way back to 100%. Cornerback Chris Cook can attest to Gerhart’s strength, size and determination after trying and failing to stop him during a goal-line drill: "Man, you gotta get low if you want to stop Toby's big, um, butt.” The team plans to activate Peterson during the preseason to get a look at him in live action. "Ideally, you'd like to see him get some carries at some point in the preseason just for his benefit," said Head Coach Leslie Frazier. "Where he can gain some confidence and get a feel for where he is and where he needs to be by the first game."

WR: As expected, Percy Harvin showed up at camp on time. Harvin still wants a new contract and an even bigger role in the offense, but he said he is “happy” and “on board” after having a sit-down meeting with Frazier. A week ago Monday, Harvin gave the team a scare when he was carted off the field with a hand/wrist injury only to return to the field a while later. Opposite Harvin will be the team’s shiny new object – Jerome Simpson. Vikings offensive coordinate Bill Musgrave can't rave enough about Simpson’s speed and how valuable it will be for the team. He’s also happy with the rapport that Simpson and Ponder are developing in their first practices together. "I think they sense we're going to give both of them a chance to make a ton of plays," said Musgrave. Unfortunately, Vikings fans will have to wait a few weeks for that connection to click as Simpson will serve a 3-game suspension. Knowing that, the Vikings have been looking one of the team’s young receivers to step into Simpson’s spot during his absence. Unfortunately, it won’t be talented rookie Greg Childs, who worked hard to get back on the field after tearing his ACL at Arkansas. Childs tore both of his patellar tendons over the weekend and the Vikings released the young receiver with an injury settlement. The injury to Childs could re-open the door for veteran Michael Jenkins, who is back from his own knee injury suffered late last year. One name to watch here is second-year receiver Stephen Burton, who has reportedly

improved after an underwhelming performance in camp as a rookie. Burton has excellent size, but he remains very much a work in progress. Rookie Jarius Wright seems like a better fit for slot duty as he, Devon Aromashodu and Emmanuel Arceneaux compete for roster spots.

TE: The MVP of Vikings camp so far has been Kyle Rudolph, according to the NFL Network’s Michelle Beisner. Rudolph is having an excellent camp and figures to be a sponge underneath if Jerome Simpson is able to be the deep threat that the team envisions. Rudolph has shown excellent hands, held up well as a blocker while going against SLB Chad Greenway and shown a tremendous work ethic. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune described Rudolph as having 10-foot fishing nets for hands while HC Frazier talked up Rudolph as having a chance to be special. "The way he can catch the football is second-to-none. His catching radius is amazing," said Frazier. "If Christian gets it close to him, he knows that Kyle is going to come up with the football." More importantly, Ponder has been confident enough to throw Rudolph the ball even when he is barely open. "Kyle has had a great offseason," Musgrave said. "He has gained strength without losing any movement. He is one of the guys that we are going to count on to contribute who wasn't a full-time starter last year." With John Carlson sidelined for a few weeks with a sprained MCL, Rudolph has been Ponder’s safety valve. "We've built up a lot of chemistry," Ponder said. "I think we just click and (Rudolph) finds ways to get open. He's such a big target. I have a lot of confidence throwing to him." With Carlson out, rookie Rhett Ellison got some reps with the first-team and didn’t look out of place.

Defense: First-round pick FS Harrison Smith has been working with the second team so far in camp. The team wants him to compete and win the job, but they have Jamarca Sanford and Mistral Raymond working as the starting safeties for now. Meanwhile, veteran CB Antoine Winfield has been getting some rest from the coaches. They want to ease the 35-year old corner back to make sure he’s healthy for the regular season. They appear to be taking the same approach with 32-year old DT Kevin Williams, too. “We will pull back a little bit (on his reps) and make sure we have him ready to go when we line up against Jacksonville -- so he's playing at a high speed,” Frazier said. One player who wants no part of a “pitch count” is DE Jared Allen, who denied that coaches approached him about a rotation to keep him fresh during the season. “Believe me, we have talked about this subject a number of times, contrary to what Mr. Allen has to say. We talked about it even this morning,” said HC Frazier. The team is giving DE Everson Griffen a long look at linebacker as he came to camp at 258 pounds, down 15 from last year. He won’t play every down and the team may still use him as a pass rusher. Rookie CB Josh Robinson has played well enough to impress coaches after missing some practice with a hamstring injury.

Special Teams: So far, rookie kicker Blair Walsh has looked good in camp – hitting 15 of 16 field goals, showing a strong leg on kickoffs, and succeeding in the requisite heckling drills. Special teams coordinator Mike Priefer assessed, “Every day, I think he has gotten a lot better, starting on day one in the spring…. I’ve slowed him down a little bit. Some of the things

he’s figured out on his own. He keeps a notebook and writes in it after every practice or film session. He goes back and reviews those notes. He really understands what he needs to work on and what he needs to improve on in order to be an effective kicker in this league.”

Vikings Depth ChartQB: Christian Ponder, Joe Webb (WR), Sage Rosenfels, McLeod Bethel-ThompsonRB: Adrian Peterson (inj), Toby Gerhart, Lex Hilliard, Jordan Todman, Derrick ColemanFB: Ryan D'Imperio, Jerome Felton, Matt AsiataWR: Percy Harvin (KR), Jerome Simpson (susp), Michael Jenkins, Stephen Burton, Devin Aromashodu, Jarius Wright, Emmanuel Arceneaux, Bryan Walters (KR), Kerry Taylor, Kamar Jorden, Greg Childs (IR)TE: Kyle Rudolph, John Carlson (inj), Rhett Ellison (FB), Mickey Schuler, Allen ReisnerLT: Matt Kalil, Demarcus LoveLG: Charlie Johnson, Joe BergerC: John Sullivan, Brandon FuscoRG: Geoff Schwartz, Chris DeGeareRT: Phil Loadholt, Patrick BrownK: Blair WalshDT: Kevin Williams, Christian Ballard (NT), Letroy Guion, Fred EvansDE: Jared Allen, Brian Robison, Everson Griffen (W), Nick Reed, De'Aundre Reed, Trevor Guyton, Jeff CharlestonMLB: Jasper Brinkley, Marvin Mitchell, Audie ColeOLB: Chad Greenway (S), Erin Henderson (W), Larry Dean, Solomon Elimimian, Tyrone McKenzieCB: Antoine Winfield (inj), Chris Cook, Chris Carr, Josh Robinson, Zackary Bowman, Robert Blanton, Marcus Sherels (PR), Brandon Burton, Reggie Jones, Chris StroudS: Jamarca Sanford (SS), Mistral Raymond (FS), Harrison Smith (FS), Eric Frampton (SS), Andrew Sendejo

New England Patriots

QB: Tom Brady picked up where he left off last year with a razor sharp performance during the first few days of camp. On the first day of practice, Brady completed 26-of-29 passes in “competitive situations”. It wasn’t until Thursday that Brady had a bad day throwing the football, prompting him to walk off the field in a bad mood. “He was pretty fired up," WR Wes Welker said. "He's his own biggest critic. As much as coach even stays on him and everyone else, he's his own worst enemy sometimes. It's great to see. He cares. He wants to do great, and he is great." Brady was working without Brandon Lloyd, Deion Branch and Jabar Gaffney and it didn’t help matters that there were strong winds. What had Brady seething mad happened during the 2-minute drill when S Steve Gregory jumped in front of a pass intended for Julian Edelman for an interception. "It's good to see he's human sometimes," Welker said. "Everybody has bad plays out there. It's how you bounce back from them, how you go out there and compete and keep fighting and how you get after it out there. He's always

understanding that and knowing if he makes a bad play he's going to come back 10 times better the next time. It really rubs off on all the other guys out there." Needless to say that on the next day, with Lloyd and Gaffney back on the field, the passing game returned to form. Brady completed 12-of-16 passes for three touchdowns during full-team sessions and he connected for touchdowns on all five of his throws during a two-minute drill.

Brian Hoyer remains as Brady’s backup, but Ryan Mallet received more reps than Hoyer throughout several practices as coaches want to accelerate Mallett’s development. Mallett has been up and down throughout camp with some errant throws leading to interceptions and holding onto the football too long and taking sacks at other times. That said, he has impressed the coaches with his improvement.

RB: Stevan Ridley continues to be the leader of the pack in the Patriots’ running back competition. Ridley has dominated first-team snaps through the first week of camp showing improved ball security and decisiveness running the football between the tackles while consistently showing good power and the ability to move the pile. Meanwhile, the herd was thinned after Joseph Addai reportedly failed his conditioning test and was waived. Shane Vereen had his best day of camp on Friday showing good vision and no hesitation, but reports have pegged him as looking less explosive than undrafted rookie Brandon Bolden so far. Vereen’s expected to have an impact on passing downs with his speed, but so far, Bolden has received most of the hype from beat writers and onlookers. Of course, there is the inevitable comparison to BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Both were undrafted free agents out of Ole Miss. Both also have nearly identical measureables, only Bolden brings more speed to the table as well as the skills to become a viable option on passing downs for the Patriots. Bolden caught 76 passes (including 6 TDs) in college. The team has been working to rekindle the screen play after it’s been largely dormant for the past few seasons. Of course, Danny Woodhead returns and he’ll figure into the mix as well on passing downs. When asked about Bolden, Belichick said that he’s done a “decent job”, adding that he had good skills in the passing game and that he’s been pleased with Bolden’s intelligence. “Like all the rookies, he’s made plenty of mistakes,” Belichick said. “But he’s made progress, he’s worked at it. Like I said, he’s a smart kid, he’s picked things up fairly well.” Meanwhile, FB Tony Fiammetta left the team and OL Robert Gallery decided to retire over the weekend.

WR: Heading into camp, Wes Welker’s contract stalemate with the team dominated the headlines. The two sides failed to reach an agreement on a long-term deal, but Welker reported to camp and will play under the franchise player designation in what could end up being his last season as a Patriot. If the contract situation was a distraction, it hasn’t affected Welker’s play. He’s been as unstoppable as ever in the slot and in one-on-one matchups where he routinely got the best of CB Kyle Arrington. Just as exciting has been the addition of Brandon Lloyd. ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss wrote that it looks like Lloyd and Tom Brady have been together for decades. Back with OC Josh McDaniels, Lloyd has a legitimate chance to be a top 10 fantasy receiver this year and help the Patriots take

their offense back towards their record-setting numbers from the 2007 season when they had McDaniels and Randy Moss. "(Lloyd) knows what he’s doing out there. It’s not like there is a lot of studying the playbook," Brady said. "He wants to be a big part of this offense. I obviously want to help him become a big part of this offense. So there is constant communication between the two of us." The Patriots have held Lloyd out of practice for precautionary reasons a couple of days as he worked through a minor injury. Branch missed three practices and Gaffney missed a couple as well, although he didn’t appear to be injured. He apparently was struggling with the heat.

TE: In addition to Lloyd, Aaron Hernandez has been on fire during the first week of camp. After one practice, he and Brady stayed late to work on hand-off exchanges. Hernandez has shown some unreal open-field moves while putting on a clinic with his body control and versatility. "Our offensive coordinator's a monster," said Hernandez. "He knows how to create plays to get people open. I love playing for him." Last Wednesday, Bill Belichick even had a little fun with Hernandez, as he got tangled with LB Jerod Mayo during 7-on-7s. Hernandez was shaking his arm after the play, prompting Belichick to come over and give his elbow a kiss. "I had a little bruise on my elbow and I was whining about it, and he was just showing me the love of a father figure and he gave me a kiss on the elbow," Hernandez said. Did he ask for the kiss? "No, I didn't ask him… I damn sure liked it though. Felt some love."

Rob Gronkowski wasted no time getting back into the swing of things. On his first day of practice, he displayed quite a bit of suddenness while running routes, enough for him to declare his ankle 100%. Gronkowski did have a couple of rare drops (including a sure touchdown) and he struggled a tad in blocking drills. It didn’t take long for that to come around though. By Friday, he was back in form and his blocking was excellent.

Defense: The story in camp from the defensive side has been the rookies. Chandler Jones was thought to be a situational pass rusher as a rookie, but so far he’s proven to be much more, holding down the right defensive end spot taking both first and second team reps after showing well at the point of attack and demonstrating a variety of pass rush moves. Dont’a Hightower moved right into the starting lineup at the strong-side linebacker position while safety Tavon Wilson has gained confidence and playing well in coverage against Rob Gronkowski. He’s seen action at safety, linebacker and corner so far in camp. "I think he’s been on a steady course since he got here," Belichick said. "Tavon works hard. He’s very attentive, he asks good questions, he really pays attention and he’s a hard working kid, both on and off the field.” Meanwhile, DE Rob Ninkovich returned to the left defensive end spot moving Trevor Scott and Jermaine Cunningham down the depth chart. Devin McCourty continued to struggle after having a sophomore slump last year. McCourty needs to pick up his play or Sterling Moore could earn some playing time after flashing excellent ball skills.

Special Teams: Kicker Stephen Gostkowski, punter/holder Zoltan Mesko and camp leg Chris Koepplin are back. Special teams coordinator Scott O'Brien discussed what they’ve been practicing, “Every day we go out, there's something specific that they're out there to do. If it's field position or any of the various kicks that we have to perform, they go out there every day to get better at what they're doing…. If they come off the field one day and there's something we've noticed technique-wise that we weren't doing correctly, that becomes the emphasis the next time we go out there…They're getting their timing, they're getting their rhythm and trying to improve every single day.”

Patriots Depth ChartQB: Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer, Ryan MallettRB: Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, Danny Woodhead, Brandon BoldenFB: Spencer Larsen, Eric Kettani, Tony FiammettaWR: Wesley Welker, Brandon Lloyd, Deion Branch, Jabar Gaffney, Julian Edelman (KR/PR/CB), Donte' Stallworth, Jeremy Ebert, Matt Slater (SS/KR), Britt Davis, Jesse HolleyTE: Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Visanthe Shiancoe, Daniel Fells, Jake Ballard (inj)LT: Nate Solder, Kyle HixLG: Logan Mankins, Ryan WendellC: Dan Connoly, Dan KoppenRG: Brian Waters, Robert GalleryRT: Sebastian Vollmer, Marcus CannonK: Stephen Gostkowski, Chris KoepplinDT: Vince Wilfork (NT), Kyle Love, Brandon Deaderick, Myron Pryor, Gerard Warren, Ron Brace, Tim Bulman, Marcus HarrisonDE: Chandler Jones, Rob Ninkovich, Jonathan Fanene, Jermaine Cunningham, Trevor Scott, Jake Bequette, Markell Carter, Alex Silvestro, Aaron LavariasMLB: Brandon Spikes (M), Dane Fletcher, Tracy WhiteOLB: Jerod Mayo (W), Donta Hightower (S), Bobby Carpenter (S), Niko Koutouvides (S), Jeff Tarpinian (W), Mike Rivera (S)CB: Devin McCourty, Ras-I Dowling (inj), Kyle Arrington, Sterling Moore, Alfonzo Dennard, Marquice Cole, Nate EbnerS: Patrick Chung (SS), Steve Gregory (FS), Tavon Wilson (SS), Will Allen (FS), Josh Barrett (SS), James Ihedigbo (FS), Sergio Brown (FS), Ross Ventrone (FS), Malcolm Williams

New Orleans Saints

QB: "Yeah, that's hard. He's my head coach. We've got a great player-coach rapport, professional relationship," Drew Brees commented on Sean Payton's suspension during 2012 "But I would say 50 percent of our conversations are football. And the other 50 percent are life. Talked about family, talked about other things. I miss that. It's kinda like they took your friend and put him in solitary confinement. It's gonna be a heck of a journey," Brees said. "I look at this season as being maybe one

of the more exciting seasons for us because of the opportunity that we have. So much swirling around us. The speculation, 'What are you gonna do without this guy, that guy?' … It really just allows us an opportunity to come together, you know, create an identity. Just reinforce all the things that we've been taught and the culture that we've created here, the environment, that winning attitude, that need to go out and be the hunter and not the hunted." Brees finished the Hall of Fame Game 4/5 for 41 yards, followed by Chase Daniel with 15/20 for 203 yards, one TD and one interception.

RB: Mark Ingram scored the only rushing TD on Sunday night, with 4 rushes for 14 yards and a touchdown to his credit. Darren Sproles (1/11/0 rushing and 1/8/0 receiving) and Pierre Thomas (1/12/0 rushing and 2/21/0 receiving) were also effective. The Saints' backfield looks like a full-blown running back by committee. All told, eight players carried the ball on Sunday night. The entire stable of backs are healthy and ready to attack as of week one of the preseason.

WR: Rookie Nick Toon made his first push in training camp for the No. 4 wide receiver spot Thursday August 2 with several nice catches, including a touchdown grab from Drew Brees on a jump ball during team red zone drills. However, Toon ended up limping off the field with a foot injury. Adrian Arrington has been the talk of camp and may have the lead in the battle for the 4th receiver slot. Arrington said, "I've always had the chemistry, but I've never had the opportunities... for them [the Saints] to keep me here shows that they want me to be here."

TE: Safeties Roman Harper and Malcolm Jenkins reportedly couldn't keep the ball away from Jimmy Graham during one-on-one passing drills between the tight ends and safeties; Graham caught every pass thrown to him Sunday. "The good thing about him is that he doesn't necessarily need to be pushed or motivated,” said Drew Brees. "He is self-motivated. He is driven. He's got a fire that burns inside of him."

Defense: The Saints' started training camp down both of their starting cornerbacks – Patrick Robinson (shoulder) and Jabari Greer (hernia) were ruled out of the first preseason game. Greer underwent a sports hernia procedure to repair his injured groin. Interim coach Joe Vitt said, "(Greer) will definitely be ready for the regular season. Some guys are quicker (to heal) than others." This isn't the first time Greer needed a sports hernia procedure – he missed the final seven games of the 2009 regular season with a groin injury that needed to be repaired. Fellow starting cornerback Patrick Robinson has missed a handful of practices after sustaining a shoulder injury Sunday.

Special Teams: Towards the end of July, the Saints signed punter/holder/kickoff-specialist Thomas Morstead to a six-year $21.9 million contract extension. He’s a happy camper. The kicking competition officially got under way in the Hall of Fame Game with both players alternating kicks. Garrett Hartley ended up with two extra points. John Kasay saw two field goals attempts – connecting from 22 yards, but had a 54-yarder blocked in the fourth quarter. In practices through Friday, Hartley had made every field goal except two while

Kasay had yet to miss. Special teams coordinator Greg McMahon noted, “They'll get equal opportunity. We'll see how it plays out.”

Saints Depth ChartQB: Drew Brees, Chase Daniel, Luke McCown, Sean CanfieldRB: Mark Ingram, Darren Sproles (3RB/PR/KR), Pierre Thomas, Chris Ivory, Travaris CadetFB: Jed Collins, Korey HallWR: Marques Colston, Devery Henderson, Lance Moore (PR), Joseph Morgan, Nick Toon (inj), Adrian Arrington (inj), Courtney Roby (KR), Andy Tanner, Marques Clark, Kevin HardyTE: Jimmy Graham, David Thomas, Michael Higgins, Derek SchoumanLT: Jermon Bushrod, Marcel JonesLG: Ben Grubbs, Eric OlsenC: Brian De La Puente, Matt TennantRG: Jahri Evans, Andrew TillerRT: Charles Brown, Zach StriefK: Garrett Hartley, John KasayDT: Sedrick Ellis, Brodrick Bunkley, Akiem Hicks, Remi Ayodele, Tom Johnson, Swanson MillerDE: Will Smith (susp), Cameron Jordan, Martez Wilson (S), Junior Galette, Turk McBride, Donovan Robinson, Greg Romeus (IR)MLB: Curtis Lofton, Jonathan Vilma (susp)OLB: David Hawthorne (W), Scott Shanle (S), Chris Chamberlain (S), Jonathan Casillas (W), Will Herring (S), Nate Bussey (W), Lawrence Wilson, Ramon HumberCB: Jabari Greer (inj), Patrick Robinson, Johnny Patrick, Elbert Mack, Marquis Johnson, Kamaal McIlwain, Cord Parks, Nick HixsonS: Malcolm Jenkins (FS), Roman Harper (SS), Jonathan Amaya (FS), Isa Abdul-Quddus (SS), Corey White (SS)

New York Giants

QB: Living in the New York area, you would think the Giants were an also ran rather than the defending Super Bowl champions. The media seems far more obsessed with what Tim Tebow is or is not wearing than they do what Eli Manning is doing in training camp. Manning made light of the situation: “I told David Carr to take his shirt off while we were running sprints after practice to see if he can get the same coverage,” Manning’s main focus early in camp is gaining comfort with the young receivers that will need to step up in place of the injured Hakeem Nicks and the departed TE Jake Ballard.

RB: Ahmad Bradshaw is finally ready to claim a leadership role on offense, something that he has previously ceded to his backfield mate Brandon Jacobs. With Jacobs now in San Francisco, Bradshaw is stepping into the void, and making no apologies for it. "There's something to prove for us as a running back group," said Bradshaw, "We would love to prove everybody wrong and that's kind of the attitude we take

offensively. Being in the leader role, I just take advantage of it and try to help the young guys as much as I can." Fantasy owners will be watching Bradshaw’s health this preseason after a series of injections were meant to cure his long-standing foot problems. If Bradshaw can stay healthy, he’s capable of huge numbers this year. 1st round pick David Wilson has been at his best and worst through the first week of camp. He’s used his blazing speed and lateral quickness to break big runs, but he’s also been far too willing to run up into a clogged hole instead of having the patience to let his blockers do the work.

WR: Hakeem Nicks is targeting a mid-August return from his broken foot. Last year’s breakout star Victor Cruz has looked good in the early going, routinely making highlight reel grabs as Manning’s top target (with Nicks out). Long-time veteran Domenik Hixon has returned from a 2nd torn ACL to lead the way for the 3rd WR spot; and he’s been running as the starter in Nicks’ absence. It’s hard to get a read on the rest of the WR depth chart thus far, but 2nd year Jerrel Jernigan has had his moments, while undrafted free agent David Douglas has opened some eyes. Douglas is probably destined for the practice squad, but remember Victor Cruz was once a practice squad player, too.

TE: 4th year veteran Bear Pascoe has quietly emerged as the favorite to start after a rock solid offseason and equally strong start to training camp. Pascoe is not a dynamic receiver, but he’s shown good hands and an ability to catch the ball in traffic –which puts him on equal footing to his predecessors like Jake Ballard and Kevin Boss. Martellus Bennett has the athletic ability Pascoe lacks, but continues to be a mercurial figure. Some have questioned his fitness, while others believe he’s simply a bad practice player who can put up big numbers once the games matter.

Defense: Terrell Thomas was an emerging young cornerback the Giants happily committed $11mm in guarantees to on a new four-year deal, but yet another knee injury has some wondering if the star-crossed defender will ever reach his potential. Initial reports called Thomas’ injury a torn ACL – which would’ve been his 3rd career tear – but a second opinion recommended rehab instead of surgery. Either way Thomas won’t be a contributor to the defending Super Bowl champions until later in the season, at the earliest. In his absence, Prince Amukamara will start alongside Corey Webster which leaves Antrel Rolle to reprise last year’s role as the slot corner in nickel situations. The front seven has dealt with injuries in the early camp practices, with five of ten linebackers sitting out of weekend practices while DT Chris Canty remains on the PUP list.

Special Teams: Punter/holder Steve Weatherford, kicker Lawrence Tynes and long snapper Zac DeOssie are again the specialist trio. DeOssie described their working relationship, “We have our role and love our role on this team, but we all complement each other as well. Steve’s sort of the wild man, I’m sort of the reserve guy, and Lawrence is somewhere in between. We do everything together, on and off the field so when you have that kind of friendship, it makes our job that

much more fun, that much more enjoyable.” Through eight days of practice, Tynes had missed only one field goal.

Giants Depth ChartQB: Eli Manning, David Carr, Ryan PerrillouxRB: Ahmad Bradshaw, David Wilson, D.J. Ware (KR), Da'Rel Scott, Andre BrownFB: Henry HynoskiWR: Hakeem Nicks, Victor Cruz, Domenik Hixon (KR), Rueben Randle, Jerrel Jernigan, Ramses Barden, David Douglas, Dan DePalma, Isaiah StanbackTE: Martellus Bennett, Bear Pascoe, Travis Beckum (inj), Adrien Robinson, Ryan Purvis, Christian Hopkins, Larry DonnellLT: Will Beatty, Brandon Mosely, Matt McCantsLG: David Diehl, Kevin BootheC: David Baas, Jim CordleRG: Chris Snee, Mitch PetrusRT: James Brewer, Sean LocklearK: Lawrence TynesDT: Chris Canty, Linval Joseph (NT), Marvin Austin (inj), Shaun Rogers, Rocky Bernard, Markus Kuhn, Dwayne HendricksDE: Justin Tuck, Jason Pierre-Paul, Osi Umenyiora, Justin Trattou, Craig Marshall, Adrian TracyMLB: Chase Blackburn (W), Keith Rivers (W), Mark Herzlich (S)OLB: Mathias Kiwanuka (S), Michael Boley (W), Clint Sintim (S), Greg Jones, Spencer Paysinger (W), Jacquian WilliamsCB: Corey Webster, Terrell Thomas (inj), Prince Amukamara, Jayron Hosley, Justin Tryon, Antwaun Molden, Michael Coe, Brandon BingS: Kenny Phillips (SS), Antrel Rolle (FS), Tyler Sash (SS) (susp), Stevie Brown, Chris Horton, Will Hill

New York Jets

QB: Mark Sanchez went backwards in 2011, throwing the second highest number of interceptions in his brief career and looked pretty awful doing it. He’s under pressure with offseason acquisition Tim Tebow right behind him. So far he’s been fair-completing 52.2% of his passes, while Tebow has completed only 50%. It’s not enough to hold off anyone but perhaps Tebow. It’s unlikely that Sanchez doesn’t begin the season as starter. So far the offense has struggled most days regardless of the quarterback. Tebow or Sanchez, when it comes to passing this team has issues. Tebow struggles as much as Sanchez, but is almost impossible to stop when he’s running at the goal line. Even when the defense knows it’s coming, they haven’t been stopping him regularly. While his throws might leave a bit to be desired, he’s a load running the ball. While changing out your quarterback at the goal line is dicey at best, it’s hard to argue with success and the goal line package has success; at least against their own team. The team even went ‘live’ against Tebow-that is to say, allowed him to be tackled to the ground-and it didn’t matter. He still has

issues with his mechanics though and isn’t a danger to start the season with Sanchez’s job.

RB: New offensive coordinator Tony Sparano ran the ball a lot when he coached the Dolphins, and did it pretty well. He’s in New York to get the Jets’ ground and pound back in shape. Shonn Greene is the lead back but has yet to show any extraordinary talent at running the ball. The Jets have said they will rest him on third downs, going with either Joe McKnight or second year back Bilal Powell. Recently Powell has shown some promise showing he can take a hit as well as catch the ball effectively as well. McKnight won’t cough up that job easily, but Powell has started to put the pressure on him. Further, if Greene doesn’t step up his game, both Powell and McKnight may see some of his carries. Terrence Ganaway is a rookie drafted late in the sixth round, a big back who doesn’t always run as tough as a guy his size should. He could be in for some goal line and short yardage work if he can be consistent enough to stay with the team.

WR: Santonio Holmes gave everyone a bit of a scare this week when it looked as though he might have broken a rib or two, but the X–rays were negative. Holmes continues to be unhappy in general, but he seems to be working to have a good season. Rookie Stephen Hill is coming along, working on his route running and showing his reliable hands and how he uses his lengthy frame to snatch the ball on a tall pass. He’s still a bit raw, and it may take some time but he looks like he could have an impact if the quarterback play holds up. He certainly puts in the time and is one of the hardest working players on the team. One of the stories of camp so far has been Chaz Schilens. The former Raider has been playing well but also been hampered by injury. That’s been his story all career, so it remains to be seen if he can turn that around. Second year player Jeremy Kerley has been a disappointment in camp, coming in poorly conditioned and struggling. The Jets had a larger role in mind for Kerley but he has a lot of catching up to do if he is to be a factor in the offense.

TE: Dustin Keller has been very quiet in camp so far, save for his unhappiness with the lack of a long-term contract extension. Every year the Jets seem interested in increasing his role and every year that expectation is not met. He’s a big, fast, athletic tight end who could be a huge help in the red zone but tends to get lost in the shuffle of other weapons. He may see a bump in Sparano’s new offense but it’s risky to hope this year will be different. Of the bench depth, Jeff Cumberland has the best chance of making some noise this year, though it’s faint. Cumberland has made some nice catches in camp so far but is mostly around for his blocking prowess.

Defense: Simply put, the Jets need an improved pass rush this year. They have a tremendous corner in Darrelle Revis and a very good one (if inconsistent) in Antonio Cromartie (self-described second best wide receiver on the team). They weren’t more than average, only getting 35 sacks in 2011, tied for 17th in the NFL. The Jets hope rookie Quinton Coples will be a key factor in turning it around but so far Coples has seemed overwhelmed by the defense. While that has been a disappointment, second year nose tackle Kenrick Ellis has

looked very good and Mo Wilkerson has continued to improve at defensive end. The Jets also hope that Aaron Maybin continues his solid play from last season, allowing them to use him more and getting pressure via his speed and freeing up Calvin Pace to get into the backfield as well. Another question is at safety where LaRon Landry and Yeremiah Bell are setting high goals for themselves such as locking down the New England Patriots’ tight ends. Landry has had some injury issues, but has been hitting hard in camp (just what the Jets need) and Bell is looking to prove he can play with the best. The Jets safety play has been up and down the last few seasons-if they can use them to solidify the middle of the field, they can mitigate the damage by guys like Rob Gronkowski.

Special Teams: Josh Brown commented, “I have every intention of winning the job.” Nick Folk responded, “Yeah, and I’m here to keep my job.” The two friends will be competing for the Jets kicking job this month. Special teams coordinator Mike Westhoff noted, “I wanted to make this as viable a competition as I possibly can, and I think that’s what it will become because you’ve got two guys, and each one has had some ups and downs, but they’ve had some ups. So we’re going to push that to the max and go from there. I think it’s going to be a very good competition.”

Jets Depth ChartQB: Mark Sanchez, Tim Tebow, Greg McElroy, Matt SimmsRB: Shonn Greene, Bilal Powell (3RB), Joe McKnight (3RB/KR), Terrence Ganaway, John GriffinFB: John Conner, Josh Baker (TE)WR: Santonio Holmes (inj), Stephen Hill, Chaz Schilens, Jeremy Kerley (PR),Patrick Turner, Jordan White, Eron Riley, Dexter Jackson, Raymond Webber, Royce Adams, Wes Kemp, Chris ForcierTE: Dustin Keller, Jeff Cumberland, Dedrick Epps, Hayden Smith, Tarren LloydLT: D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Stephon Heyer, Austin HowardLG: Matt Slauson, Caleb Schlauderaff, RobertT GriffinC: Nick Mangold , Matt KroulRG: Brandon Moore, Fred KolotoRT: Wayne Hunter, Vlad DucasseK: Nick Folk, Josh BrownNT: Sione Pouha, Kenrick Ellis, Martin TevaseuDE: Muhammad Wilkerson, Mike Devito, Quinton Coples, Marcus Dixon, Jay RichardsonILB: David Harris (M), Bart Scott (W), Demario Davis, Josh Mauga (W), Nick Bellore (M)OLB: Calvin Pace, Aaron Maybin, Bryan Thomas, Garrett McIntyre, Ricky Sapp, Eddie JonesCB: Darrelle Revis, Antonio Cromartie (KR), Kyle Wilson, Ellis Lankster, Isaiah Trufant, Julian Posey, Ryan Steed, Devon TorrenceS: LaRon Landry (FS), Yeremiah Bell (SS), Eric Smith (FS), Josh Bush (FS), DeAngelo Smith (SS), Antonio Allen (SS)

Oakland Raiders

QB: Head coach Dennis Allen said Carson Palmer has been "exceptional" so far at camp. Palmer showed rejuvenated arm strength last year, is working with explosive skill players and the Raiders' anemic defense figures to yield plenty of shootouts. The concern is that new OC Greg Knapp utilizes a run-heavy scheme and asks his quarterbacks to execute bootlegs and rollouts. Palmer is one of the least mobile signal callers in the league. He's the No. 15 fantasy quarterback in our Draft Guide. The battle for the backup position comes down to experience vs. athleticism, and Terrelle Pryor has shown clearly which side of the argument he’s on so far. Pryor has made some outstanding plays to avoid the rush but also struggled with turning the ball over. Matt Leinart is enjoying a solid camp so far and may not have much work left to do to lock up the backup role.

RB: The Raiders have no plans to rest Darren McFadden in the preseason. Coach Dennis Allen has determined that getting McFadden comfortable in the new zone scheme is more important than trying to save his health. McFadden's durability issues have had more to do with bad luck than anything, and the Raiders probably figure if he's going to get hurt again, it's pretty inevitable. Despite the injury history, McFadden is locked in as a first-round fantasy pick. There is some debate who the player to own is if he is injured, and training camp has only fueled that. The Raiders have been pleased with Mike Goodson, and his size fits more what they’re looking for as a feature back, but Taiwan Jones continues to show blazing speed and figures to factor into the game plan in one way or another. The two are splitting second team reps at the moment.

WR: Denarius Moore continues to miss time with a testy hamstring and rookies Rod Streater and Juron Criner are both trying to take advantage of the extra reps. After Criner impressed in OTAs, it was Streater that owned most of the first week of camp. Criner has come on stronger lately and both receivers say they’re looking to Darrius Heyward-Bey for leadership. “I watch his every move,” Criner said. “If he sneezes I’m there to say bless you. I take as much as I can from a guy like that.” Heyward-Bey has been happy to accept the leadership role and at this point is the only experienced Raiders receiver to stay healthy. Dennis Allen sounded a little bit like the Mike Shanahan of recievers when asked who his #1 might be in 2012. “I think our ability to use our weapons in different ways and be able to spread the ball around can give us an advantage,” Allen said. “I think a lot of times when you have a guy when he’s the go-to guy, teams are able to kind of game plan around that, so I think having a bunch of versatility and a bunch of different types of receivers, is a good thing.”

TE: Brandon Myers has been running with the starters through the beginning of camp. Myers is the best blocking tight end on the Raiders roster. He started seven games last year, but managed just seven catches for 60 yards in those games. Pass-catching option David Ausberry is on the second team. Even if Myers is the starter because of the Raiders’ run-heavy attack, Ausberry says he’ll do whatever it takes to make plays. "If you're a playmaker, you're a playmaker and that's what I try to bring," Ausberry said. "Whether it's blocking, I'll

do it. Whether it's catching, I'll do it. If the ball's in the air, you've got to go get it. And that's how I try to approach it."

DEF: Figuring out what kind of defense the Raiders are going to play is going to be a challenge for opponents, and that’s the way Dennis Allen wants it. As they continue to add additional sets on defense, Allen says there is plenty more to come. “A lot of the stuff we’re going to do, even in OTAs, we mixed some of that stuff in,” Allen said. “But we’re going to continue to add as we go along. We’ve still got a long training camp process. And we’ve still got a lot of stuff we’ve got to get installed both offensively, defensively and on the special teams between now and when we kick off on Monday night against San Diego.” Second-year CB Demarcus Van Dyke has reportedly been the "biggest surprise" of Raiders camp thus far. Van Dyke held his own in four spot starts as a rookie, but it sounds like he's taking his game to the next level in year two. Van Dyke is long and runs well, and he could end up pushing for penciled-in RCB Shawntae Spencer's starting job. Spencer, for his part, seems to be leaving the door wide open for both receivers and anyone that wants his job.

Special Teams: Punter/holder Shane Lechler has been sidelined early in camp with a “not serious” knee injury. That has allowed rookie Marquette King to display a strong leg and catch the attention of the media and possibly other teams. Camp leg rookie Eddy Carmona has not had the same luxury behind starter kicker Sebastian Janikowski. The left-footed Janikowski discussed some important matters last month, “Actually I’m a right-handed (golfer). Believe it or not. I’m right-handed. I throw right-handed, too. It’s weird, I don’t know. I just grew up that way, my dad was right-footed, I was left-footed. Totally opposite.”

Raiders Depth ChartQB: Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart, Terrelle PryorRB: Darren McFadden, Mike Goodson, Taiwan Jones, Lonyae MillerFB: Marcel Reece, Owen Schmitt, Manase Tonga, Rashawn JacksonWR: Darrius Heyward-Bey, Denarius Moore, Jacoby Ford (KR), Juron Criner, Rod Streater, Duke Calhoun, Eddie McGeeTE: Brandon Myers, David Ausberry, Richard Gordon, Tory HumphreyLT: Jared Veldheer, Zach Hurd, Kevin HaslamLG: Cooper Carlisle, Tony BergstromC: Stefen Wisnieski, Alex ParsonsRG: Mike Brisiel, Lucas NixRT: Khalif Barnes, Joe Barksdale, Ed WangK: Sebastian JanikowskiDT: Richard Seymour (DE), Tommy Kelly, Desmond Bryant, Jamie CumbieDE: Matt Shaughnessy, Lamarr Houston, Dave Tollefson, Jack Crawford, Christo Bilukidi, Mason Brodine, Hall DavisMLB: Rolando McClain, Travis Goethel (inj)OLB: Aaron Curry (W), Philip Wheeler (S), Miles Burris (S), Nathan Stupar, Carl Ihenacho (S)CB: Ronald Bartell, Demarcus Van Dyke, Shawntae Spencer, Chimdi Chekwa, Pat Lee, Bryan

McCann, Brandon Underwood, Terrail LambertS: Tyvon Branch (SS), Michael Huff (FS) (inj), Jerome Boyd (FS), Mike Mitchell(SS), Matt Giordano, Curtis Taylor

Philadelphia Eagles

Garrett Reid, son of Eagles head coach Andy Reid, was found dead in his dorm room at Lehigh University earlier this week. Our thoughts, prayers and positive vibes go out to the Reid family and all others who are impacted by this tragedy. Coach Reid was understandably absent from practice for a few days as he deals with this family crisis, but both he and team spokesmen have reiterated that Coach Reid is expected back with the team in short order.

QB: It’s hard to believe, but this is the first full offseason that Michael Vick has been the Eagles #1 quarterback, after emerging two seasons ago and then the lockout shortened offseason last summer. Vick told reporters, “Last year, I would say around this time I was 25, 30 percent comfortable with what we were doing. Now, I’m about 90 percent. The other 10 percent is just learning.” The backup situation is worth watching, although the early camp returns show Mike Kafka well ahead of Trent Edwards. In fact, Edwards was listed as the co-third stringer alongside rookie Nick Foles in the Eagles first preseason depth chart – that doesn’t bode well for Edwards’ future.

RB: LeSean McCoy emerged as one the Eagles’ best playmaker last year, and was rewarded with a new contract for his efforts. His only job this preseason is to stay healthy. It’s the battle for the backup spot that will make for compelling camp theater. Incumbent Dion Lewis has answered the bell in the opening week of camp, clearly outperforming rookies Bryce Brown and Chris Polk. Brown and Polk haven’t been slouches, either, with the undrafted Brown being one of the pleasant surprises thus far. Brown has shown power and decisiveness at the point of attack, and has the look of a potential NFL starter someday.

WR: It’s too early to make broad proclamations, but the early returns for DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin are encouraging after their 2011 struggles. Maclin is healthy, back to his ideal playing weight, and is as polished a receiver as any the Eagles have fielded in Andy Reid’s tenure. Jackson has done 180 degrees both in terms of his attitude and work ethic – which was no doubt aided by the monster extension he signed this offseason. Jason Avant continues to be a reliable 3rd receiver and slot option – you can set a clock to the 7-year veteran. Riley Cooper broke his collarbone, which has allowed the Eagles to see more of rookies Marvin McNutt and Damaris Johnson in the early going. They’re competing with Chad Hall, Tiger Jones and Andy Brewer for the final roster spots. It should be noted that Johnson is also the favorite for the punt return job.

TE: Brent Celek missed more than a week of practice with a sprained MCL, but both Celek and the Eagles have indicated

it’s a minor injury and nothing that will impair him once preseason games get under way. In his stead, 3rd year Clay Harbor has shined running with the starters. Harbor has the kind of athleticism that projects well against the emerging class of elite offensive tight ends, but must be more consistent and more committed as a blocker to earn regular playing time. Expect the Eagles to keep an eye on the veteran waivers, because depth is current an issue – Brett Brackett and Chase Ford are currently running with the 2nd and 3rd team units.

Defense: All eyes will be on the Eagles defense as Luis Castillo spends his first full offseason as the team’s defensive coordinator after years of coaching the offensive line. The lockout-shortened offseason in 2011 combined with a flurry of free agent acquisitions make the Eagles defense a work in progress; the unit was playing catch up for most of the year. Things are far more regimented this offseason, with most of the key cogs returning. The biggest changes come at the linebacker positions where DeMeco Ryans takes over at MLB, while rookie Michal Kendricks has run with the first team at SLB. Brian Rolle appears set at WLB, which in turn gives the Eagles better depth (Jamar Chaney, Akeem Jordan, Casey Matthews) than they’ve had in years. All four of the projected starters on the defensive line have missed time in the first week of camp, but that’s only served to showcase the depth on the front four. The best story of camp has been the re-emergence of Brandon Graham. After two lost seasons due to injuries, Graham (who was drafted two spots ahead of Jason Pierre-Paul) has been a standout in early practices. At cornerback, the Eagles acquired Kevin Thomas from the Indianapolis Colts. Thomas is an ideal bump-and-run, physical corner and he’ll be given the opportunity to unseat Joselio Hanson as the 3rd cornerback.

Special Teams: Second-year player Alex Henery is the lone kicker in camp. Second-year punter/holder Chas Henry now faces competition from recently signed Mat McBriar. Special-teams coordinator Bobby April laid it on the proverbial line, “[Henry] did OK. He has a lot of areas he's got to be better at to help our defense. He's aware of them. He's working on them. Not many rookies punt very well in this league. He got acclimated as the holder and was punting pretty well [by season’s end]. But he's got to improve. He's got to improve some areas that push that line of scrimmage further away from our goal line.”

Eagles Depth ChartQB: Michael Vick, Mike Kafka, Nick Foles, Trent Edwards, Jacory HarrisRB: LeSean McCoy, Dion Lewis (KR), Bryce Brown, Chris PolkFB: Stanley HaviliWR: Jeremy Maclin, DeSean Jackson (PR) , Jason Avant, Riley Cooper (inj),Marvin McNutt, Damaris Johnson (PR), Mardy Gilyard, Chad Hall, Jamel Hamler, Ronald Johnson (inj)TE: Brent Celek, Clay Harbor, Brett BrackettLT: Demetress Bell, King Dunlap, Thomas WelchLG: Evan Mathis, Dallas ReynoldsC: Jason Kelce, Steve VallosRG: Danny Watkins, Julian Vandervelde, Brandon

WashingtonRT: Todd Herremans, DJ Jones, Dennis KellyK: Alex Henery, Michael BarnardDT: Cullen Jenkins, Mike Patterson (inj), Fletcher Cox, Derek Landri, Antonio Dixon, Cedric Thornton, Ollie OgbuDE: Trent Cole, Jason Babin, Darryl Tapp, Vinny Curry, Brandon Graham, Phillip Hunt, Monte TaylorMLB: DeMeco Ryans, Casey MatthewsOLB: Mychal Kendricks (S), Brian Rolle (W), Jamar Chaney (W), Akeem Jordan (S), Keenan Clayton (W), Adrian MotenCB: Nnamdi Asomugha, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Joselio Hanson, Brandon Boykin (PR/KR), Kevin Thomas, Curtis Marsh, Brandon Hughes, Cliff Harris (PR)S: Nate Allen (FS), Kurt Coleman (SS) (inj), Jaiquawn Jarrett (SS), O.J. Atogwe (FS), Colt Anderson, Tom Nelson, Phillip Thomas

Pittsburgh Steelers

QB: After making a bit of news by revealing that he has a “little” tear in his rotator cuff, Ben Roethlisberger has shown no ill effects. While some growing pains were expected between Roethlisberger and new offensive coordinator Todd Haley, the quarterback is performing as if he has been in Haley’s offense for years. Backup QB Byron Leftwich has performed well, but Roethlisberger is clearly the key to this team’s offensive success. His performance thus far in camp is encouraging for everyone else on the offense.

RB: With Rashard Mendenhall beginning camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list as expected, Isaac Redman has worked as the team’s starting back throughout camp. With stories emerging that running backs coach Kirby Wilson said that Redman will “definitely” play on third downs, he has a chance to be one of the rare three-down fantasy backs in the NFL. Backup Jonathan Dwyer appears to have been inspired by the Mendenhall injury situation and his new place on the depth chart. Coaches have said they’ve never seen him in better shape, and he’s doing his best to be ready to spell Redman for a few drives per game.

Redman and Dwyer will never be mistaken for burners, but that’s where Chris Rainey comes in. Despite Pittsburgh having drafted Baron Batch last year, a new offensive regime is in town, and Rainey looks like the preferred option among the “scat-back” types. He has even been making plays on timing patterns and quick routes from the slot as a receiver. Haley will hope to utilize him as the offense’s new “toy.”

WR: Prior to camp, many thought the biggest story would be the adjustment to Haley’s new offense. When Mike Wallace didn’t report (expected) and the team gave essentially the same contract extension they were offering Wallace to Antonio Brown (unexpected), a new top story emerged. Wallace’s value to this offense is undeniable, but this

organization’s way of doing things won’t change for any player. Wallace won’t come to camp without an extension, but the team has a long-standing policy of not negotiating with players who are holding out from camp.

On the field, Brown is performing like a #1 WR despite never being one yet in his short NFL career. Opposite him, Emmanuel Sanders is working with the first team in Wallace’s absence. Sanders displayed flashes of serious talent in 2010 when it was him – not fellow-2010 draftee Brown – who emerged late in the season and contributed during the team’s run to the Super Bowl. In that Super Bowl, Sanders was injured. He seemingly never healed, allowing Brown to emerge in the 2011 camp. From there, Brown’s star was created, and Sanders’ playing time became limited and inconsistent.

As camp progresses and preseason games take place, Sanders will be under the microscope perhaps more than any other Steelers’ player. Keep in mind that Brown had a 4 rec / 137 yd / 2 TD line in the all-important third preseason game last season. Should Sanders generate similar chemistry with Roethlisberger, he’s going to a great fantasy value because he’s not a household name, which will keep him a mid-to-late round pick.

TE: Many hoped that one of the benefits of adding two offensive linemen in the draft would be that Heath Miller can be used more in the passing game. Miller has spent the past couple seasons being used heavily as a blocker to supplement a weak offensive line. He won’t be mistaken for a “move” tight end like the position’s best athletes, but he possesses above-average speed for the position and elite hands. The team acquired former Cardinal, former Chief, and – therefore – Haley favorite Leonard Pope in the offseason. Pope happened to score a touchdown during the team’s goal line drill in a recent practice, but his skill set dictates that he won’t be doing that too often this season. He’ll be used in jumbo packages and two-tight end sets as a run blocker primarily.

Defense: The defense lost a couple of leaders and long-time stalwarts from last year’s team. Defensive end Aaron Smith and inside linebacker James Farrior are gone, as is the often-maligned William Gay from the cornerback position. Replacing Smith is perhaps the most promising task with two former first-round picks in the fold. Both Ziggy Hood and Cameron Heyward played last season (Hood is entering his fourth season, Heyward his second) and should transition in nicely. In the middle of the line, Casey Hampton looks to return from his ACL tear in the team’s 2011 playoff loss at Denver. If he can’t play from Week 1, Steve McLendon and rookie fourth-round pick Alameda Ta’Amu will fill the void.

At linebacker, the Steelers are still elite on the edges with James Harrison and LaMarr Woodley. If those players remain healthy, the team’s lack of turnover production could be resolved. They are the defenses best chance at pressuring the passer, forcing fumbles, and forcing ill-advised throws. In the middle, veteran Larry Foote will take over for Farrior and call the defensive signals. He’s not as fast as he once was, but he knows the defense. Also inside is Lawrence Timmons, an

elite athlete who had a down year in 2011. Perhaps he was a victim of his own versatility, as he was asked to play multiple games outside during the stretches of the season in which Harrison and Woodley were injured.

The big story in the back is the competition to replace Gay opposite Ike Taylor. Keenan Lewis, a fourth-year player is the presumed favorite. But Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown are ready to take the job if Lewis doesn’t claim it. The safeties lack depth, but the starters are elite. Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark are very comfortable and familiar with each other. Polamalu has taken on a silent, lead-by-example role. He even came to every mini-camp (in lieu of his typical routine of training in California).

Special Teams: It is generally assumed that Shaun Suisham will remain the kicker, although some fans are hoping that rookie Danny Hrapmann is competition rather than just a camp leg. During the first week of camp Suisham showed greater accuracy while Hrapmann showed a stronger leg. Punter/holder Jeremy Kapinos has missed practice due to a stiff back, giving rookie Drew Butler an opportunity to stake a claim on the job. He has yet to capitalize on the opportunity, with “inconsistent” being the word most often used to describe his punting last week. In addition to widely varying distances, he also mishandled a snap.

Steelers Depth ChartQB: Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Batch, Byron Leftwich, Jerrod JohnsonRB: Rashard Mendenhall (inj), Isaac Redman, Jonathan Dwyer, Chris Rainey (3RB/WR), Baron Batch, John ClayFB: David Johnson, Will Johnson, Jamie McCoyWR: Mike Wallace (RFA), Antonio Brown (PR), Emmanuel Sanders (KR), Jerricho Cotchery, Derrick Williams, Toney Clemons, Marquis Maze, Tyler Beiler, Jimmy Young, David Gilreath, Juamorris StewartTE: Heath Miller, Leonard Pope, Weslye Saunders (susp), David PaulsonLT: Marcus Gilbert, Mike AdamsLG: Ramon Foster, Trai EssexC: Maurkice Pouncey, Doug LegurskyRG: David Decastro, John MaleckiRT: Willie Colon, Jonathan ScottK: Shaun SuishamNT: Casey Hampton (inj), Steve McLendon, Alameda Ta'Amu, Kade WestonDE: Brett Keisel, Ziggy Hood, Cameron Heyward, Al Woods, Mike Blanc, Corbin BryantILB: Lawrence Timmons (R), Larry Foote (L), Stevenson Sylvester (R), Sean Spence, Mortty Ivy, Brandon Johnson, Marshall McFadden, Brandon HicksOLB: LaMarr Woodley (L), James Harrison (R), Jason Worilds, Christopher Carter, Ryan BakerCB: Ike Taylor, Keenan Lewis, Cortez Allen, Anthony Madison, Curtis Brown, Terrence Frederick, Walter McFaddenS: Troy Polamalu (SS), Ryan Clark (SS), Ryan Mundy (FS), Will Allen (SS), Myron Rolle, Da'Mon Cromartie-Smith

St. Louis Rams

QB: So far, so good for Sam Bradford and his left ankle. Last year, Bradford struggled through the season after suffering a nasty high ankle sprain in Game 5 against the Packers that took a long time to heal and ultimately ended his season. So long, in fact, that he admits that it’s still not 100% healed. While that may be somewhat of a concern, Bradford is walking without a limp and he appears to be moving around as well as ever in practice. "It's close," Bradford said. "I think it's as good as it's going to feel. It's something that we're managing right now. I've been able to take every snap so far without any setbacks and I think that's a positive sign." Bradford also said his arm feels as strong as ever. With a menagerie of receivers, an improving defense and what appears to be a solid running game, Bradford figures to be the trigger man in a run-heavy offense making him a below average QB2 option in most leagues.

RB: New offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer made it very clear in his first meetings with players that he intends to install a physical running offense. After overseeing the Jets offense the past two years, Schottenheimer knows a thing or two about a run-first offense and protecting a young quarterback – both of which are staples in new Head Coach Jeff Fisher’s philosophy. Of course, the primary weapon in the Rams attack will be veteran Steven Jackson, who reported to camp at 235 pounds proclaiming 5% body fat. "I'm ready," said Jackson, "Let the games begin." Jackson has been a workhorse for the Rams, and while he fully expects to continue in that role, the front office drafted the explosive and versatile Isaiah Pead to be his backup, if not a complement to Jackson this year. Jackson said he expects to get 25-to-30 touches a game, but at 29 years old the coaches may be looking for Pead to lighten his load just a little. ESPN’s John Clayton, who was at Ramps camp, dubbed Pead as a Darren Sproles-style back with speed, decent hands and an ability to run up the middle well. Pead earned MVP honors at the Senior Bowl and Jeff Fisher has been quoted as seeing similarities to Chris Johnson. Pead will have to work on his pass protection, but he’s as much of a must-have handcuff as there is this year. Daryl Richardson is poised to earn the No. 3 job, but he missed practice on Saturday and both rookies will need to prove themselves in the preseason games to keep Fisher from looking to the waiver wire for some veteran help. FB Ovie Mughelli was signed to compete with Britt Miller.

WR: The Rams receiver corps has a large group of veterans and rookies competing for both starting jobs as well as roster spots. The players deemed to be safest are Danny Amendola, rookies Brian Quick and Chris Givens, and perhaps Greg Salas. Amendola has been the clear-cut no. 1 receiving target according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Amendola is expected to be the team’s primary slot receiver, but that doesn’t mean he won’t play in the team’s two-receiver set. Schottenheimer believes he could be as good of a slot guy as there is in the league, but that seems a lot more like coach speak given Amendola’s limitations after the catch. Brandon

Gibson appeared to be on the bubble after the team drafted Quick and Given and signed Steve Smith as a free agent, but he opened camp with the starters and put together a strong week of practice as well as a productive game in their scrimmage at the dome. "He made two very impressive catches today on the boundary," Fisher said afterward. Greg Salas also had a good scrimmage. Rookie Brian Quick has flashed potential, but needs a bit of work. On one play, Quick made a nice one-handed catch on a fade route, but he also ran some sloppy routes and dropped a pass from Kellen Clemens. Fellow rookie Chris Givens displayed speed, quickness, and the ability to make the big catch, but he has struggled holding onto the football in traffic. Givens appears to be ahead of Quick at this early stage, but both players will need to limit their mistakes and improve their consistency before they are given significant roles. Another player looking good is Steve Smith. Both NFL.com’s Jeff Darlington and ESPN.com’s John Clayton reported that Smith appears to be on the verge of a rebirth after being moved back outside and displaying more speed than expected. Similarly, Salas has moved outside and is looking good. With so much competition, Danario Alexander may have a difficult time earning a roster spot given his inability to stay out of the training room.

TE: The Rams are having Lance Kendricks and Michael Hoomanawanui compete for the starting job(s) in camp. Fisher puts an emphasis on blocking, which is one of Hoomanawanui’s strengths, while Kendricks is more of receiving option. Kendricks didn’t practice on Saturday, while Mike McNiel made several nice plays in the Dome.

Defense: The Rams front four has looked good throughout the first week of camp, even if they are going against the Rams offensive line. Robert Quinn continues to show off a strong speed rush. Rookie DT Michael Brockers is providing a good push in the interior and DE Eugene Sims has improved as a pass rusher. Similarly, the secondary has some new faces and figures to be much improved. CB Cortland Finnegan followed Jeff Fisher to St. Louis and the team drafted Janoris Jenkins and Trumaine Johnson as well. Jenkins has looked like a player that can make an instant impact according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. "Through a week of training camp, Janoris Jenkins has flashed Pro Bowl potential," stated Schefter. "He's looked like a natural corner, like he can man that position. Has looked like a difference maker at the cornerback spot, like a future Pro Bowl player. The Rams are very excited about what they've seen from their young cornerback so far." Johnson made a nice break on the ball to intercept a pass in Saturday’s practice. Darian Stewart is competing with Craig Dahl for the free safety job after being more of an in-the-box, physical safety last year. Stewart has been slowed by leg injuries that have forced him to miss some practice time. LB James Laurinaitis’s showed off his coverage skill with an interception in Thursday’s practice, when he jumped in front of Jackson to make a play on the ball.

Special Teams: The two rookie specialists are expected to win their respective jobs over the two second year players - Greg Zuerlein at kicker over Garret Lindholm and Johnny Hekker at punter/holder over Tom Malone. Zuerlein has captured the attention of fans and media early in camp by

hitting multiple long field goals with distance to spare. Quarterback Sam Bradford appears ready to settle for field goals over touchdowns, “Yeah, our kicker, wow, it's been pretty impressive to watch. To have that in your back pocket, to know we don't have to get to the 30-yard line to give ourselves a chance.”

Rams Depth ChartQB: Sam Bradford, Kellen Clemens, Tom BrandstaterRB: Steven Jackson, Isaiah Pead, Daryl Richardson, Chase ReynoldsFB: Brit Miller, Ovie Mughelli, Todd Anderson, Benjamin GiudugliWR: Danny Amendola (PR), Brandon Gibson, Steve Smith, Greg Salas, Brian Quick, Chris Givens, Danario Alexander (inj), Austin Pettis (susp), Michael CampbellTE: Lance Kendricks, Michael Hoomanawanui, Mike McNeill, Matthew Mulligan, Brody Eldridge (susp), Deangelo Peterson, Jamie ChildersLT: Rodger Saffold, Quinn OjinnakaLG: Bryan Mattison, Robert TurnerC: Scott Wells, Tim BarnesRG: Harvey Dahl, Kevin HughesRT: Jason Smith, Rokevious WatkinsK: Greg Zuerlein, Garrett LindholmDT: Kendall Langford, Michael Brockers, Trevor Laws, Darell Scott, Jermelle Cudjo, Cornell BanksDE: Chris Long, Robert Quinn, William Hayes, Eugene SimsMLB: James Laurinaitis, Josh HullOLB: Jo-Lonn Dunbar (S), Aaron Brown (W), Justin Cole (W), Rocky McIntosh,Mario Haggan (S), Alex Hoffman-Ellis, Sammy BrownCB: Cortland Finnegan, Janoris Jenkins, Bradley Fletcher, Trumaine Johnson, Josh Gordy, Jerome Murphy, Kendric BurneyS: Quintin Mikell (SS), Darian Stewart (FS), Craig Dahl (FS), Rodney McLeod (FS),Matt Daniels (SS), Quinton Pointer (FS)

San Diego Chargers

QB: Philip Rivers had a down year in 2011, and it’s possible that he has peaked. He has shown good accuracy and velocity in the first week of training camp, however, and is optimistic about his array of new targets. If he bounces back with a 100+ passer rating this season, it will be his fourth in five years. Backup QB Charlie Whitehurst struggled with accuracy early in training camp before suffering a knee injury that will keep him out of action for 2-3 weeks. The Chargers view Whitehurst as the clear #2 QB this season, however, so when they sought to replace him with another camp arm, the open position was for a 2-3 week stint, not a true chance to compete for a regular-season roster spot. That’s why Billy Volek turned down the opportunity and Kyle Boller left the team (retired) after a single practice. The Chargers ended up signing former San Diego State quarterback Kevin O’Connell to join undrafted rookie Jarrett Lee as the backups until Whitehurst

returns. The Chargers are expected to carry only two quarterbacks this season, so neither Lee nor O’Connell is expected to make the final cut.

RB: With Mike Tolbert having moved on to Carolina, Ryan Mathews is expected to receive a significantly bigger workload this season. He showed up to camp in much better shape than last year, and has been working this offseason on carrying the ball higher and in tighter to his body to prevent fumbles. He was in a car accident early in training camp and went to the emergency room to treat minor injuries. After missing one day of practice, however, he was back on the field and looked fast. It’s worth noting that Mathews has been working with the second unit in the two-minute drill, with Ronnie Brown getting the first-team reps. Brown, a terrific receiver out of the backfield, is one of three free agent RBs to sign with the Chargers this year, along with Jackie Battle and fullback Le’Ron McClain. In addition to being the lead back in the two-minute offense, Brown may also get substantial playing time on third downs, and he has been taking snaps in the Chargers’ version of the wildcat offense as well. With Mathews and Brown as the clear #1 and #2 at halfback, there is fierce competition for the #3 spot. Jackie Battle probably has the edge over Curtis Brinkley, with rookies Edwin Baker and Michael Hayes also in the mix. Le’Ron McClain will start at fullback, and is also a capable ball carrier who could get a share of the carries if Ryan Mathews were to miss time. Backup FB Jacob Hester is likely to make the team for his special teams prowess.

WR: There are a lot of new faces at wide receiver. Vincent Jackson is gone, but the team has added Robert Meachem, Eddie Royal, Roscoe Parrish, and Michael Spurlock. Meachem is expected to start along with Malcom Floyd on the outside, with Eddie Royal working out of the slot. Norv Turner likes Meachem’s speed as a deep threat, but Meachem’s chemistry with QB Philip Rivers is currently a work in progress. After missing a couple of days with soreness in his knee, Meachem returned with no ill effects and is becoming more comfortable in the offense, but training camp observers have commented that he is being targeted less often so far than Floyd or Royal. Floyd, like Meachem, is primarily a deep threat. He is a big target with sure hands who adjusts very well to the ball in the air, but he has had trouble staying healthy throughout his career. Based on his history, Floyd is unlikely to play a full 16-game season, which means that second-year pro Vincent Brown may get a few starts. Brown can play outside or in the slot, and is the primary backup to each of the top three receivers. Brown was impressive when called upon last season, and has looked very good in this year’s camp practices so far, but will have trouble getting more than about 30 snaps a game unless there is an injury ahead of him. Eddie Royal has been catching a lot of balls in training camp, and there is speculation that he could end up with 70+ receptions this season. (He had 91 as a rookie in Denver four years ago, but hasn’t come close to matching that number since then.) After the top four receivers, who makes the team will be determined in part by special teams value. Michael Spurlock, Richard Goodman, and Roscoe Parrish are the primary contenders for the remaining 1-2 roster spots.

TE: Some of the best news out of Chargers training camp this year is how well Antonio Gates is running. Slowed by a foot injury for the past couple years, he dropped five pounds this offseason to take some of the load off of that foot. (He says he lost five pounds, but others say it looks more like twenty.) He is running and cutting at full speed. He looks fast, feels healthy, and has been burning cornerbacks in practice. He has made a few phenomenal one-handed grabs, and has also looked good running after the catch. With Vincent Jackson no longer on the team, Gates could be the primary weapon once again in the Chargers’ passing offense. Behind Gates, there is an intense training camp battle brewing between Randy McMichael and Dante Rosario. McMichael has been the Chargers’ #2 TE for the past two seasons. He is a capable blocker, but is on the downside of his career. Rosario is younger and more athletic, but he will have to perform well during the preseason to surpass the incumbent. Rookie Ladarius Green has excellent long-term potential, but he is too skinny and too inexperienced to make an impact this season. He will very likely make the final 53-man roster (since the Chargers would be unable to sneak him onto their practice squad without being poached), but will probably be inactive on game days unless there are injuries to the tight ends in front of him.

Defense: The Chargers are deep on the defensive line, and expect to rotate players at each position. Cam Thomas is the favorite to start at nose tackle, and Aubrayo Franklin should make the roster there as well. Antonio Garay can play either on the nose or at end, and will see time at both spots. Vaughn Martin and Corey Liuget will start at defensive end, but the Chargers are also very high on rookie Kendall Reyes. He should be part of the rotation immediately. At outside linebacker, Shaun Phillips and Jarrett Johnson are expected to start. Johnson is primarily a run defender, so rookie first-round pick Melvin Ingram could take his place on passing downs. Antwan Barnes is another situational pass-rusher. Larry English has been plagued by injuries his whole career; this is his last chance to catch on with the Chargers. He looks good when he’s healthy, but his inability to stay on the field has put him on the roster bubble. At inside linebacker, Donald Butler and Takeo Spikes will start, and Demorrio Williams will likely replace Spikes on passing downs. Quentin Jammer and Antoine Cason will start at corner, and Marcus Gilchrist has the nickel pretty well locked up. Eric Weddle will start at free safety, looking to build on his excellent 2011 season. Free agent acquisition Atari Bigby is expected to start at strong safety, but rookie Brandon Taylor could end up pushing him for a share of the snaps.

Special Teams: Kickers Nate Kaeding and Nick Novak are both off to a good start in camp. Kaeding is hoping to bounce back from a year lost to a torn ACL, “There has been a lot of emotional times in the past 11 months. “But I’ve gotten through it and I’m ready to go show everyone that I am back.” Novak is looking to keep his resurrected NFL career going, “From what we are told, this is an open competition and we are getting equal reps and everything is equal across the board as far as the opportunities that we are given.”

Chargers Depth ChartQB: Philip Rivers, Charlie Whitehurst, Kevin O'Connell, Jarrett LeeRB: Ryan Mathews, Ronnie Brown, Jackie Battle, Curtis Brinkley, Edwin Baker,Michael HayesFB: Le'Ron McClain, Jacob HesterWR: Robert Meachem, Malcom Floyd, Eddie Royal (PR), Vincent Brown, Roscoe Parrish (PR), Micheal Spurlock (KR), Richard Goodman (KR)TE: Antonio Gates, Randy McMichael, Dante Rosario, Ladarius Green, Kory Sperry, Brad TaylorLT: Jared Gaither, Brandyn DombrowskiLG: Tyronne Green, Steve SchillingC: Nick Hardwick, David Molk, Colin BaxterRG: Louis Vasquez, Rex HadnotRT: Jeromey Clary, Mario HendersonK: Nate Kaeding, Nick NovakNT: Cam Thomas, Aubrayo Franklin, Antonio Garay, Charlie BryantDE: Corey Liuget, Vaughn Martin, Kendall Reyes, Jacques Cesaire, Damik Scafe, Garrett BrownILB: Takeo Spikes, Donald Butler, Jonas Mouton, Demorrio Williams, Andrew GachkarOLB: Shaun Phillips, Jarret Johnson, Melvin Ingram, Antwan Barnes, Larry English, Ricky Elmore, Darryl Gamble, Bront BirdCB: Quentin Jammer, Antoine Cason, Marcus Gilchrist (KR), Shareece Wright, Arthur HobbsS: Eric Weddle (FS), Atari Bigby (SS), Brandon Taylor (SS), Darrell Stuckey, Corey Lynch

San Francisco 49ers

QB: The 49ers held their first morning practice of training camp Wednesday, with an emphasis on third-down situations. Last season, they converted only 29.4 percent of third-down plays, the second-worst efficiency in the league – but Alex Smith was sharp in drills, with completions on his first four passes on the third-down drill, to four different receivers: Delanie Walker, Kyle Williams, Brian Tyms and Randy Moss. On Thursday, practice sessions concentrated on the red zone - "We scored a lot of field goals [last year], and that's nice, but we're leaving four points on the table," center Jonathan Goodwin said. Smith didn't convert many plays on Thursday, and overthrew Moss on one notable occasion. "Going against a great defense like ours ... it provides a great challenge and makes you better day in, day out," offensive coordinator Greg Roman said.

RB: Frank Gore spoke about his desire to still be the 49ers' featured back, "Everybody wants to play. I know I want to play," Gore said. "The type of player I am, I've got to get in a rhythm. I feel the more I'm in, the better I get." He acknowledged that the team has more talent at running back this year, though, calling Brandon Jacobs "very big and strong" and LaMichael James "very quick and fast". Reports indicated that Jacobs dropped 15 pounds in the offseason and he says he feels faster and more agile. Head coach Jim

Harbaugh commented on Gore's role: "It's not a matter of being a ball hog. Frank likes to work. He likes as much work as he can get." Harbaugh added: “I've seen a laser like focus from Frank. On the practice field, it's the same Frank. Same demanding, intense, enthusiastic guy on the field."

WR: Randy Moss was reportedly "putting on a clinic" for the 49er's DBs this past week - CB Tarell Brown has been beaten repeatedly by Moss during practice sessions. On Wednesday, Chris Owusu caught a 50-yard touchdown pass from Colin Kaepernick, one of the longest connections so far this summer. Ted Ginn Jr. did not participate in any offseason workouts, as he was nursing a right knee injury. However, toward the end of the offseason program, he appeared to be running near 100-percent speed during workouts. Ginn was handling kick returns early in training camp. During one practice, Kyle Williams made a couple of phenomenal catches while the 49ers worked on third-down conversions. However, Williams did not finish the next practice. He appeared to tweak his left knee on a pass route. Michael Crabtree missed his fifth practice Thursday and did individual conditioning for an apparent calf strain - the injury has also been described as a right foot/ankle issue - whatever the case, Crabtree is (once again) sitting out a major chunk of training camp.

TE: Vernon Davis has earned praise from coach Harbaugh during the summer - "Every day, just getting better at route-running. Every facet of the tight end position, he's really excelling in that right now." However, during training camp Davis has had trouble with LB Patrick Willis – Willis stripped Davis of a pass and covered the resulting fumble on Monday, July 30. Delanie Walker has looked good thus far in camp, which means the 49ers are set at tight end barring injury.

Defense: As noted above, LB Patrick Willis showed up at full speed for training camp - "To me, he's one of the best coverage guys, as far as a linebacker, I've ever seen," tight end Vernon Davis said last week. "He works on it each and every day." "Statistically we've done well. We don't rest on them," Willis said last week. "We'll try to duplicate them and play much better on defense." "I think any time you go against quality players, it helps you improve," defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said. "We added to our depth and quality on offense, and it will have a residual effect on us defensively, and we'll be better prepared for going against quality players." Though CB Tarell Brown has been burned by Moss repeatedly in practices, Brown has taken all of the first-team repetitions during the first week of camp. Chris Culliver is the nickel CB, while Carlos Rogers remains entrenched as the other starting CB. Defensive lineman Justin Smith sat out a day or practice, but it’s not concerned anything more than a veteran getting some rest.

Special Teams: The 49ers entered camp with their three starting specialists and camp leg Giorgio Tavecchio. Kicker David Akers is coming off a record setting season and punter/holder Andy Lee signed a six-year contract extension back in May. Both, along with long snapper Brian Jennings, will use August to fine-tune their timing and rhythm. Jennings will also re-acclimate himself to Candlestick Park conditions, “I’ve gotten spoiled [at home]. In Arizona, the wind doesn’t

move the ball. Here, the ball moves based on the wind. I want to get back into it and this sets us up for training camp.”

49ers Depth ChartQB: Alex Smith, Colin Kaepernick, Josh Johnson, Scott TolzienRB: Frank Gore, Kendall Hunter (3RB), Brandon Jacobs, LaMichael James, Anthony Dixon (FB), Rock Cartwright, Jewel HamptonFB: Bruce Miller, Cameron BellWR: Michael Crabtree, Randy Moss, Mario Manningham, Kyle Williams, A.J. Jenkins, Ted Ginn (KR/PR), Brett Swain, Chris Owusu, Joe Hastings, Nathan PalmerTE: Vernon Davis, Delanie Walker, Nate Byham, Konrad ReulandLT: Joe Staley, Derek HallLG: Mike Iupati, Joe LooneyC: Jonathan Goodwin, Jason SloweyRG: Alex Boone, Daniel KilgoreRT: Anthony Davis, Kenny WigginsK: David AkersNT: Isaac Sopoaga, Ricky Jean Francois, Ian WilliamsDE: Justin Smith, Ray McDonald, DeMarcus Dobbs, Will TukuafuILB: Patrick Willis (M), Navorro Bowman (T), Larry Grant, Tarvares Gooden, Michael WilhoiteOLB: Parys Haralson (W), Ahmad Brooks (S), Aldon Smith, Darius Fleming (inj), Kourtnei Brown, Cam Johnson, Eric BakhtiariCB: Carlos Rogers, Tarell Brown, Tramaine Brock, Chris Culliver, Perrish Cox, Cory Nelms, Curtis Holcomb, Anthony MosleyS: Donte Whitner (SS), Dashon Goldson (FS), C.J. Spillman (SS), Trent Robinson (FS), Colin Jones (FS), Ben Hannula (SS), Mark LeGree (FS), Darcel McBath

Seattle Seahawks

QB: Tarvaris Jackson opened camp with the first team, but Head Coach Pete Carroll continues to stick to his guns of having a three-way competition. As the incumbent, Jackson took the field first, Matt Flynn second and rookie Russell Wilson third. In Sunday night’s game-like practice, it was Jackson that once again worked with the first team, Flynn with the second and Wilson with the threes. Carroll reiterated that this is the plan, but didn’t offer much as far as details. "There's a plan in mind here fellas," Carroll said. In the red zone, Jackson tried to connect with Cameron Morrah, but Richard Sherman was able to get a hand on it and Kam Chancellor plucked the ball for what likely would have been a 100+ yard touchdown reminiscent of a play last year where Chancellor tipped the pass and Brandon Browner returned it. The three quarterbacks split snaps almost equally but it was Wilson’s bomb to Golden Tate that got the crowd’s attention the most. Jackson scrambled on another play in the red-zone as he shoveled a left-handed pass to Tate for a score, while Flynn was intercepted by LB Heath Farwell early in the scrimmage.

Overall, Wilson has made plays but he’s also been inconsistent. Depending on the day, each quarterback was given the bulk of the snaps. Likewise, all have had their moments, but Carroll seems to be serious in that Wilson is being given every opportunity to compete. While many expect Flynn to ultimately win the job in the preseason, it looks more and more as if he’ll need to earn it and so far it’s anyone’s guess.

RB: In Saturday night’s scrimmage, Marshawn Lynch picked right back up where he left off last season with a 70-yard run only to be caught from behind by rookie DE Bruce Irvin. "That's not a surprise," coach Pete Carroll said. "He can fly." Lynch may avoid a suspension this year if his lawyer plans on taking his DUI case all the way to trial, and because of his legal uncertainties, there has been a lot of attention given to the backup running backs. Fourth-round rookie Robert Turbin has not disappointed so far in camp. He has shown impressive power, earning nicknames like “Turbinator” and “Sea-Hulk”. Peter King called him the most impressive rookie in the Seahawks camp. RBs coach Sherman Smith seems to agree. "You see the physical style that he has - that's what we want," Smith said. "And that's what Robert's going to be."

WR: Sidney Rice and Golden Tate opened camp as the starters with Doug Baldwin in the slot. Tate’s job is not yet secure, though, as the team keeps kicking the tires of free agents like Antonio Bryant, Braylon Edwards and (gulp) Terrell Owens. Bryant was signed, but didn’t last a week after the team opted to sign Edwards. On Monday, the team worked out Owens, who ran a 4.4 40 and reportedly looked good prompting the team to sign him to a one-year deal. Meanwhile, Kris Durham made a leaping catch in Sunday’s scrimmage for 35 yards only to hurt his hip. Ricardo Lockette’s hamstring tightened up forcing him to the sidelines. Tate appears to be comfortable now that he’s back outside and healthy after missing OTAs with a broken hand. The team is expected to hold Rice out of contact for much of the preseason as a precaution after suffering three concussions in the last 12 months and having two shoulder surgeries in January. Rice is practicing though. "We're just going to go through this conservatively," said Carroll, "and lengthen the time of his recovery through this camp." Lockette got off to a strong start in camp, and while Carroll believes he has a big future, WRs coach Kippy Brown was more cautious in his assessment, saying he still has a ways to go. "(He's) making progress," Brown said. "But we don't want to move him a lot because he performs better when we kind of keep him in one spot. But we could, and there will be times that we will."

TE: According to ESPN 710 Seattle, Kellen Winslow will be the starting tight end. While that’s speculative, Zach Miller is currently the team’s starter and the team may very well lean on both players given the unsettled nature of the receiving corps. Winslow could certainly be used in a pass-catching role, but at 29 years old and with a bad knee, it’s unlikely that Winslow will be able to sustain TE1 value. He and Miller both project to be mid-to-low TE2 at best.

Defense: After missing most of OTAs, Barrett Ruud is back practicing although it has been second-rounder Bobby Wager

that has taken the lead in the competition for the starting job at middle linebacker. Chris Clemons signed a new contract prior to camp, but so far he has not had the impact in passing drills that he has had in the past. Rookie Bruce Irvin, however, has been flashing his pass rushing skills. He used a couple of inside moves to get into the backfield, and then beat Russell Okung with a combination move that was so fast that Okung barely got a hand on him.

Special Teams: Kicker Steve Hauschka has been hitting his kicks, including from long range, early in camp. He noted, “My goal is to just get in a rhythm with Jon [Ryan, holder/punter] and Clint [Gresham, long snapper]. It was good that they stretched me out there and we got to build some confidence and get ready for the season.” For now, he won’t have to carry the full kicking load as the team re-signed camp leg Carson Wiggs. The latter, quickly got back to work, including hitting a 45 yard “game winner’ at the end of a mock game.

Seahawks Depth ChartQB: Matt Flynn, Tarvaris Jackson, Russell Wilson, Josh PortisRB: Marshawn Lynch, Robert Turbin, Leon Washington (KR/PR), Tyrell Sutton, Kregg Lumpkin, Jay Finley, Vai TauaFB: Michael RobinsonWR: Sidney Rice, Golden Tate, Doug Baldwin, Ben Obomanu, Ricardo Lockette, Braylon Edwards, Terrell Owens, Kris Durham, Deon Butler, Charly Martin, Lavasier TuineiTE: Zach Miller, Kellen Winslow, Anthony McCoy, Cameron Morrah, Cooper HelfetLT: Russell Okung, Frank OmiyaleLG: Paul McQuistan, JR SweezyC: Max Unger, Lemuel JeanpierreRG: John Moffitt, Duece LutuiRT: Breno Giacomini, James CarpenterK: Steven HauschkaDT: Brandon Mebane, Jason Jones, Alan Branch, Jaye Howard, Clint McDonald, Pep LevingstonDE: Red Bryant, Chris Clemons, Bruce Irvin, Dexter Davis, J.R. Sweezy, Greg Scruggs, Pierre AllenMLB: Bobby Wagner, Barrett Ruud, Korey Toomer, Heath FarwellOLB: K.J. Wright (S/M), Leroy Hill (W), Adrian Moten (S), Malcolm Smith (S), Matt McCoy, Jameson Konz (S), Allen Bradford (W), Mike Morgan (W)CB: Brandon Browner, Richard Sherman, Marcus Trufant, Roy Lewis, Walter Thurmond (inj), Jeremy Lane, Ron Parker, Coye Francies, Byron Maxwell, Phillip Adams, Donny LisowskiS: Earl Thomas (FS), Kam Chancellor (SS), Jeron Johnson (SS), Winston Guy, Chris Maragos (FS)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB: Josh Freeman feels like he forced a number of passes - those resulted in 22 interceptions a year ago. Offensive coordinator Mike Sullivan is preaching smarter throws as a cure for the turnovers. Among the highlights from the first-team units during Saturday night's scrimmage was a touchdown pass from Freeman to TE Dallas Clark.

RB: The Buccaneers' Doug Martin dealt with a hamstring injury during the early part of 2012, but he was able to fully participate in organized team activities in early June. Martin is ahead of LeGarrette Blount at the start of camp, with Martin receiving the bulk of first team reps. He was reportedly "very impressive" during the first week of training camp and is becoming the clear-cut #1 running back. Head coach Greg Schiano reportedly likes what he sees out of LeGarrette Blount, noting he made some nice runs and is reportedly hustling his tail off. However, Blount remains overshadowed by Martin's very impressive showing so far. Martin has shown a quick burst at the line of scrimmage, is hitting holes decisively and using his speed to make defenders miss once he hits the second layer of the defense. In a related note, OT Jeremy Trueblood took a pay cut but the team guaranteed his remaining salary so the offensive line has some continuity.

WR: Vincent Jackson has starred in training camp – he's snagged several long TD passes during practice sessions and is everything the Buccaneers expected when they acquired him. "The one thing about Vincent is this," said receivers coach P.J. Fleck. "He's made it very clear to me that he wants to become an elite player. ... I think there's still a carrot in front of him that he's chasing."

TE: One of the highlights from the first-team units on Saturday, August 4, was a touchdown pass from QB Freeman to Dallas Clark – he appears to be fitting well with Schiano’s scheme. Clark has been impressive during the first week of training camp and hasn't shown signs of the lingering injuries that bedeviled his final years in Indianapolis.

Defense: Buccaneers' DT Roy Miller, Gary Gibson and Amobi Okoye are candidates for the starting nose tackle position. Miller has been working with the first-team defense most often during training camp but that could change as camp goes on. "Gerald McCoy is out here on a mission,'' fellow defensive tackle Roy Miller said. “He’s going against two Pro Bowl guards every day in Carl Nicks and Davin Joseph, and he's making plays all over the field. When you've got a guy with that kind of talent on a mission like that, something dangerous could happen.'' "I just go out and play with a relentless effort, and that makes everyone around me better,'' McCoy said. “That's what I've always been taught to do.'' CB Myron Lewis had a notable breakup of a TD pass during the intra-squad scrimmage on Saturday. "Most definitely I'm looking forward to that first [preseason] game,'' rookie safety Mark Barron said after the scrimmage. “I mean, I really haven't had a chance to hit anybody in practice here and I haven't had that contact for a while, so I'm kind of itching for that right now."

Special Teams: Along with the starters, the Bucs entered August with two camp legs on the roster – kicker Kai Forbath

and punter Eric Guthrie. Starting kicker Connor Barth initially received the franchise tag back in March but then signed a 4-year $13.2 million deal in May. He recently concluded the first-team’s drive at night practice with a 53-yard field goal. Punter/holder/ kickoff-specialist Michael Koenen was in the news last week – he’s now part of a statue in front of the Superdome in New Orleans (depicting the Saints’ Steve Gleason blocking one of his punts when Koenen was with the Falcons).

Buccaneers Depth ChartQB: Josh Freeman, Dan Orlovsky, Brett Ratliff, Zach Collaros, Dan PersaRB: Doug Martin, LeGarrette Blount, Michael Smith, Mossis Madu, Robert HughesFB: Erik LorigWR: Vincent Jackson, Mike Williams, Preston Parker, Arrelious Benn (inj), Sammie Stroughter, Tiquan Underwood, Wallace Wright, Armahd Lewis, Ed Grant, Landon CoxTE: Dallas Clark, Luke Stocker, Zack Pianalto, Drake Dunsmore, Collin FranklinLT: Donald Penn, Jamon MeredithLG: Carl Nicks, Chaz HineC: Jeremy Zuttah, Ted LarsenRG: Davin Joseph, Derek HardmanRT: Jeremy Trueblood, Demar DotsonK: Connor Barth, Kai ForbathDT: Gerald McCoy, Amobi Okoye, Gary Gibson, Roy Miller, Frank Okam, John McCargo, DeMario Pressley, Daniel Te'o-NesheimDE: Adrian Clayborn, Michael Bennett, Da'Quan Bowers (inj), Jayme Mitchell, Wallace Gilberry, George JohnsonMLB: Mason Foster, Najee GoodeOLB: Quincy Black (S), Lavonte David (W), Adam Hayward (W), Dekoda Watson (S), Rennie Curran (W), Jacob Cutrera (S), Brian SmithCB: Aqib Talib (inj), Eric Wright, E.J. Biggers (inj), Keith Tandy, Myron Lewis (inj),Anthony Gaitor, Derrick Roberson, Marquese WheatonS: Mark Barron (SS), Ronde Barber (FS/CB), Ahmad Black (FS), Cody Grimm (SS),Larry Asante (SS), Devin Holland (SS)

Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans started camp this year on a somber note with news of the suicide of reserve receiver OJ Murdock. Said head coach Mike Munchak, “I think (Murdock's passing) always is on our minds. I think that’s something in the back of people’s mind when something unexpected like that happens. You talk about it a lot, but I think once they get out here, and they start practicing, obviously it goes, football takes over.” Most of the players reported to Baptist Sports Park on July 27th. “To be back and to be around the guys, it feels like you’re back home,” said Gerald McGrath. “It’s like the first day of school.”

Free Agent Kamerion Wimbley was the first player to check in, arriving promptly at 7 a.m. Friday afternoon included position meetings, introductions, and conditioning tests. There were a handful of fights on the first day of practice but Munchak didn't seem fazed. “(We worry) only if it gets out of hand. Only if we think it goes beyond the scope of what it should be or if there is any intent to hurt. If we something that just doesn’t look right or something that I’ve seen over the years happen, those are the things you are smart with. Like I said, you kind of encourage these guys. You want them to be going hard.” By Tuesday, the players had settled in and were focused on practicing hard.

QB: Matt Hasselbeck enters camp as the starting quarterback but most observers feel it is only a matter of time until second-year player Jake Locker takes over under center. Locker showed flashes of quality play last season and with the Titans difficult opening schedule, a change could happen sooner than later even if Hasselbeck wins the job in camp. At present, Hasselbeck is getting most of the first-team snaps and is expected to start in Saturday's game against Seattle. In practice he has shown a fine grasp of the offense and has directed the team on a number of long drives in both 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. That said, Locker's mobility has proven to be a bit of a challenge for the defense and he is showing improved accuracy on passes on the move. Locker did struggle in short-distance and goal line drills as the defense blitzed relentlessly. The Titans offensive line is in flux with Eugene Amano out for the year with a torn muscle. Said Munchak with regard to Locker's struggles, “I think that’s the good thing is you get to see how guys recover from maybe not having a good period and going on to the next period. When you have a bad period, do you put it behind you to move forward?”

RB: Chris Johnson reported to camp in excellent shape after working out with the team in the offseason. In early drills he is showing good burst with the ball and excellent agility in the open field. When asked about expectations for this season, Johnson answered, “Honestly, I feel my best football is in front of me. I'm here to work and get better but I know the kind of back I am and the kind of back I can be. It's good to be here finally in pads and working at full speed.” Coach Munchak echoed Johnson saying, “We expect big things from him. No question. Chris knows he's a big part of what we are doing on offense and he has to step up. I think he is excited about that opportunity.”

Johnson held out last season and had a lackluster year. His yards per attempt sank and he was largely ineffective in the first half of the season. Said tackle David Stewart, “Chris is one of the best there is. We're lucky to have him. Our job up front is to open holes. Chris will take care of the rest.” The Titans first team has responded to the high number of blitzes from the defense by running a number of delayed handoffs and draw plays. Johnson has shown good quickness in getting to the handoff and getting to the line in the face of the blitz.

WR: The two biggest stories in camp for the Titans this season at the receiver position are Kenny Britt's health and Kendall Wright's ability to adjust to the pro game. Britt is

doing light conditioning and rehab drills twice each day but has yet to take part in a full practice. Said Coach Munchak, “We’ve got him on a pretty aggressive program,” Munchak said. “He’s been working six out of seven days a week. We gave him a little bit of a day off on Tuesday, but he’s been doing two-a-days. While these guys are here, he’s running or doing something in the weight room or doing or doing some rehab for his legs. That’s going as well as can be expected.” Britt had no comment about his recent alcohol related arrest and is scheduled to meet with Roger Goodell this week. With regard to his injury Britt said, “It's feeling better. My injury was pretty serious but I think the rehab is going well and I'm looking forward to getting out there with the guys.” Wright wore a red “no contact” jersey for the first two days of camp but finally removed it on the fourth day of camp. Despite a short holdout, Wright has been at Baptist Sports Park for most of camp. Jake Locker said, “It’s nice to have him back. I think you guys saw in spring how explosive he is; how many plays he can make. It will be really good for our offense to have another weapon.” Wright did leave practice momentarily on Sunday after being hit in the head on a pass breakup by corner Tommie Campbell. “I mean he’s a first-round draft pick,” Campbell said. “You don’t want to be known as that guy who hurt the first-round draft pick, so I was just happy he got up because you don’t want to hurt your teammates. He told me he was fine.”

Nate Washington and Damian Williams have been running with the first team so far in practice. Williams, who has shown improved hands from last season, said, “I feel we can do a lot of great things through the air. We all have unique talents...all know how to play. If we all come out and do what we are supposed to (do), there will be plenty of balls to go around.” Said Washington, “I'm in great shape...I think a lot of the guys are in great shape. It's good to get back out here.” In contrast to last year's camp, the Titans have been working a lot on the two-minute drill and hurry up offense. Coach Munchak said, “We've got a lot of speed out there and a lot of depth. We can probably play a bit quicker and make things happen faster with guys like Nate (Washington), Chris (Johnson), and Jared (Cook).”

TE: Jared Cook attended OJ Murdock's funeral with other members of the Titans family. In practice, Cook has been on the field lined up split from the line on most plays. Matt Hasselbeck has been targeting Cook on short yardage and goal line drills and Cook's hands have been inconsistent so far; he will follow up a tough catch in traffic with an easy drop. Said Cook, “No, I'm not worried. I'd like to catch everything but that's why we are here. Everyone is working on something and I'm working on getting my rhythm, my timing back.” Said quarterback Jake Locker, “You can count on Jared. He's so fast out there....so big, it makes it tough on the defense and we want to take advantage of that. He's getting a lot of balls his way and I know he's going to catch most of them.” Craig Stevens has been serving primarily as an in-line blocker. Stevens also had the distinction of being the first Titan to start a fight in the first practice of camp. Said Coach Munchak, “Yeah, I expected that from Craig. He likes to get in there and scrap and wants all the guys to be intense. So do I. I'm not worried about it. They aren't trying to hurt each other.

They're just fired up...and that's fine.” Said Stevens, “We're just getting going. It's been a long summer without having the pads on. Nobody's mad or anything like that, we're just glad to get a chance to hit each other a bit finally.”

Defense: The Titans are looking to safety Michael Griffin to make good on his recent three-year contract extension by stepping up as a leader on the defensive side of the ball. "What Mike needs to do is say `I'm going to be the leader of this defense,' and `we're going to go this way.' All the great safeties that I've been around have done that," Titans defensive coordinator Jerry Gray said. "They take it upon themselves. Really good safeties take ownership and say, `I'm going to put you on my back, and let's go.' And then they challenge everyone around them." Griffin said he is looking forward to the challenge, saying, “I've been here long enough. I know how to play and I feel like my teammates count on me to do my job every snap. I just want to lead by example and help the younger guys learn how to play right.” Former first round pick Derrick Morgan has been held back due to injury. Said Coach Gray, “He's just a little dinged up so we held him out a bit. I don't like anyone missing snaps but he'll have time to get back in to it real quick.” Akeem Ayers has played like a long-term veteran. “He's acting like he's been in the league a long time. These guys, particularly some of the young defensive guys, aren't hesitant or starry eyed at all. They're here to work. I think they like all the blitzing, getting a chance to get at Matt (Hasselbeck) and Jake (Locker),” said Munchak. Gray said, “We feel like the guys we have here make up for some of the guys that aren't back. Jason McCourty and Tommie Campbell...those are guys that can play. They are growing in to leaders and know what to do.” Longtime Titan Keith Bulluck signed a one-day contract with the team so he could officially retire as a member of the Titans on Friday.

Special Teams: Although kicker Rob Bironas lobbied during the offseason for the team to resign long snapper Ken Amato, the Titans entered camp with only undrafted rookie Beau Brinkley at the position. Punter/holder Brett Kern commented, “Between Rob, Kenny and myself we just had a great relationship on and off the field. We knew each other’s tendencies and how each of us functioned and how we performed to our best.” Bironas, Kern & Brinkley will spend August working to develop a similar relationship. For now, rookie K/P Will Batson remains on the roster as a camp leg.

Titans Depth ChartQB: Jake Locker, Matt Hasselbeck, Rusty SmithRB: Chris Johnson, Javon Ringer, Jamie Harper, Herb DonaldsonFB: Quinn Johnson, Collin MooneyWR: Kenny Britt (inj), Nate Washington, Kendall Wright, Damian Williams, Lavelle Hawkins, Marc Mariani (KR/PR), James Kirkendoll, Michael Preston, Darius ReynaudTE: Craig Stevens, Jared Cook, Cameron Graham, Taylor Thompson, Joey HaynosLT: Michael Roos, Byron StingilyLG: Steve Hutchinson, Ryan DurandC: Eugene Amano, Kevin MatthewsRG: Leroy Harris, Fernando Velasco

RT: David Stewart, Mike OttoK: Rob BironasDT: Jurell Casey, Karl Klug, Mike Martin, Shaun Smith, Sen'Derrick Marks, Leger Douzable, Lamar Divens, DaJohn Harris, Zach ClaytonDE: Kamerion Wimbley, Derrick Morgan, Dave Ball, Malcolm Sheppard, Keyunta Dawson, Scott Solomon, Pannel EgbohMLB: Colin McCarthy, Zac Diles, Patrick Bailey, Alex WatkinsOLB: Akeem Ayers (S), Will Witherspoon (W), Zach Brown (W), Gerald McRath (S) (inj), Tim Shaw (S), Kevin Malast (W)CB: Jason McCourty, Alterraun Verner, Tommie Campbell, Chris Hawkins, Ryan Mouton, Coty Sensabaugh, Terrence WheatleyS: Michael Griffin (FS), Jordan Babineaux (SS), Robert Johnson (FS), Markelle Martin (inj), Al Afalava

Washington Redskins

QB: All eyes are on Robert Griffin III as he looks to become the Redskins first true franchise quarterback in decades. The Shanahans have emphasized 11-on-11 drills in camp because they want to simulate game situations to accelerate Griffin’s development. While Griffin’s upside is immense, we have to remember he’s a rookie and has looked that part in camp. What’s clear is that his speed and agility as well as his strong arm will be real assets, and help him get out of situations that would befuddle other quarterbacks.

RB: Mike Shanahan loves to play games with others’ expectations, much to the chagrin of fantasy owners. In spite of the fact Roy Helu has been the highest drafted RB by fantasy owners, he showed up 3rd on the team’s initial preseason depth chart, with veteran Tim Hightower atop the chart and Evan Royster listed as the #2. This is particularly notable because Hightower is coming back from a torn ACL and has been limited. Royster has received the majority of first team reps in camp,

WR: The first depth chart was released and the once-and-future stars of the receiving corps were highlighted. It should come as no surprise that Pierre Garcon – signed to a $43mm contract this offseason – is listed as a starter. But it’s Santana Moss listed as the other starter, which comes as vindication for the 33-year old who was considered at risk of being cut months ago. Moss has looked good and has lined up as both an outside receiver, and in the slot. Leonard Hankerson, coming off a hip injury, has really turned it on in recent practices, with Washington Post columnist Mike Jones saying, “[Hankerson] continues to get open and make big catches. He looks nothing like he did last year. Hankerson appears well on his way to earning a key role in this offense as Kyle Shanahan moves him around and gets the same positive results regardless of where he lines up.” Josh Morgan has been sidelined for much of camp, and needs to turn it on soon or risk being relegated to a clear backup role.

TE: The first week of camp has been a tale of two players. Fred Davis, the team’s franchise player, is clearly on the rise and has been the most impressive player on the roster. Long-time starter Chris Cooley, on the other hand, remains a long shot and has to fight to maintain his roster spot. Cooley is going to be lined up at fullback for part of the team’s preseason opener against Buffalo. Niles Paul – a converted wide receiver – has a real chance to stick on the 53-man roster as long as he can maintain the intensity we’ve seen in the first week of camp.

Defense: 3rd year ILB Riley Perry has been a standout in early camp, which is welcome news considering the Redskins decision to hand the job to Perry and let Rocky McIntosh walk. Perennial Pro Bowler London Fletcher likes what he’s seen from his teammate: “He’s light years ahead of where he was…just formation recognition, being able to react quicker as far as knowing [his responsibility].” Brian Orakpo appears to be in midseason form, while Ryan Kerrigan has been solid, but did miss practice due to heat exhaustion. Tanard Jackson has strung together a number of impressive practices in his attempt to earn a starting position.

Special Teams: Through Saturday, kickers Graham Gano and Neil Rackers were both 16 of 19 on field goals during camp. Gano said of their competition, “Because we’re away from the team so much, we get to know each other pretty well. We talk every day. There’s no animosity between us. We both know we’re professionals. I’ve been doing this a while now and so has Neil. I think we both know what’s at stake and we just have to go out there and perform. When we’re on the field, it’s total business. But off the field, we’re friends.” Both continue to work with punter/holder Sav Rocca and long snapper Nick Sundberg.

Redskins Depth ChartQB: Robert Griffin III, Rex Grossman, Kirk Cousins, Jonathan CromptonRB: Tim Hightower (inj), Evan Royster, Roy Helu, Tristan Davis, Michael ShawFB: Darrel Young, Alfred Morris, Dorson BoyceWR: Pierre Garcon, Leonard Hankerson, Santana Moss, Joshua Morgan (inj), Anthony Armstrong, Aldrick Robinson, Terrence Austin, Brandon Banks (KR/PR), Dezmon BriscoeTE: Fred Davis, Chris Cooley (inj), Logan Paulsen, Niles Paul (WR), Richard QuinnLT: Trent Williams, James Lee, Tom ComptonLG: Kory Lichtensteiger, Maurice Hurt, Adam GettisC: Will Montgomery, Erik CookRG: Chris Chester, Josh LeRibeusRT: Jammal Brown, Willie Smith, K: Graham Gano (EFA), Neil RackersNT: Barry Cofield, Chris Neild, Chris Baker, Kentwan Balmer (inj)DE: Stephen Bowen, Adam Carriker, Jarvis Jenkins, Kedric Golston, Darrion Scott, Doug WorthingtonILB: London Fletcher, Perry Riley, Lorenzo Alexander, Bryan Kehl, Keenan RobinsonOLB: Brian Orakpo (S/DE), Ryan Kerrigan, Rob Jackson, Chris Wilson, Markus White

CB: DeAngelo Hall, Josh Wilson, Cedric Griffin, Kevin Barnes, Richard Crawford, Morgan Trent, Jordan Bernstine, Brandyn Thompson, David Jones, Chase Minnifield (IR)S: Brandon Meriweather (SS), Madieu Williams (FS), Tanard Jackson (FS), Dejon Gomes (FS), Reed Doughty (SS), Travon Bellamy (SS)