NFL Concerns as Training Camp Approaches
July in the NFL is all about contracts and chaos. There are some burning questions: Which players will secure contract extensions? Will any situations lead to tensions? Who might be released or traded, and how will those moves affect the teams? And let’s not forget the injuries—whose recovery isn’t going as planned? Plus, there are always off-field issues that raise eyebrows.
Here are seven pressing concerns for the NFL as training camp kicks off.
1. Will Lamar Jackson and Baker Mayfield get new contracts?
Contract negotiations with Jackson have always been a bit of a rollercoaster. The two-time MVP is currently signed through 2027, and Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti has been eager to extend his deal, but last season, it seemed he and the team weren’t quite on the same page.
With a new coaching staff in place, there’s some uncertainty. Patrick Mahomes’ new deal sees him earning an astounding $64 million on average each season. Could the Ravens consider a similar approach for Jackson?
Meanwhile, Mayfield has set a deadline for the Buccaneers regarding his contract, which he wants resolved by training camp or else by the end of the season. He’s been one of the higher-paid quarterbacks over the past two years and is looking for a compromise, yet reports suggest that both sides are still far apart.
2. Is Brandon Aiyuk going to play anywhere this season?
Aiyuk’s $120 million extension with the 49ers has been criticized widely, especially since head coach Kyle Shanahan stepped in to block a potential trade after Aiyuk’s strong performance in the past. Since then, his appearances have been limited due to injuries and issues regarding his guaranteed money.
Despite his attempts to express his displeasure online, it seems the 49ers are less inclined to let him go. As the interest in Aiyuk dwindles, it appears the team is set on keeping him around, even if that means putting him in a tough position.
“He’s not helping his own cause,” one NFL insider remarked.
3. When will Jahmil Gibbs and Bejan Robinson shake up the running back market?
Gibbs and Robinson, who excelled in the last two seasons, are due for contract extensions. They’ve been watching other running backs, like Breece Hall and Devon Ashen, secure solid deals this offseason.
Both players, who are stepping into key roles, are expected to surpass Saquon Barkley’s current average. It seems they might be waiting on each other to set the tone. If their contracts don’t get finalized before training camp, could we see a surprise holdout?
4. What’s the plan for the Cardinals: keep their star player or rebuild?
The Cardinals find themselves in a precarious position with head coach Mike LaFleur at the helm. Jacoby Brissett, seeking a pay raise, hasn’t participated in minicamp. Will the team rely on Gardner Minshew and rookie Carson Beck, especially after Brissett’s lackluster record last season?
Additionally, pass rusher Josh Sweat seems keen on a trade to reunite with Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon. And what about James Conner? With newer running backs joining the lineup, could he be on the move as well?
5. Who will land the top free agents ready to make an impact?
Wide receiver Stefon Diggs has had a tumultuous few years, but he performed well for the Patriots last season. Deebo Samuel has also recovered from his injury woes and contributed effectively with the Commanders last year.
It might be interesting if they switched places, though the Vikings and Chiefs could complicate things for them. Left tackle Taylor Decker’s recent request for a release might turn out to be a misstep. Teams like the Cowboys or Steelers could be eyeing him, especially given recent tensions with other players.
And then there’s Joey Bosa—could the 49ers bring him on board to team up with his brother on defense? Retirement chatter hasn’t completely faded away.
6. Will Alvin Kamara stay or head elsewhere?
Kamara is beloved by fans and has no desire to leave the Saints. However, with the team’s reported silence on a pay cut for his hefty salary, one has to wonder if chasing a Super Bowl ring with a different squad could benefit both him and the Saints, considering their recent signings to bolster the roster.
7. Are Mahomes, Bo Nix, and Daniel Jones ready for camp?
Social media often showcases athletes’ rehab progress, and we’ll want to stay tuned. Mahomes (torn ACL), Nix (fractured ankle), and Jones (torn Achilles) all participated in 7-on-7 drills during minicamp and are expected to be fit for training camp. However, it’s always a different story once they hit the field for full practices.
