Preseason Insights: Key Questions Facing NFL Teams

As the NFL preseason approaches, teams are preparing to address various questions and uncertainties before the regular season begins. The preseason is pivotal for assessing player performance, establishing depth charts, and sorting out position battles within the roster.
One of the key storylines revolves around the Arizona Cardinals, who experienced a lackluster passing game last year. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing expressed optimism about quarterback Kyler Murray's growth and comfort as a leader. However, the effectiveness of the passing game during training camp has been inconsistent, raising questions about the team's readiness heading into the new season.
The Atlanta Falcons also face scrutiny regarding their pass rush after finishing with the fewest sacks in the NFC last season. The team made significant moves in the offseason to strengthen this area, including the hiring of new talent such as veteran edge-rusher Leonard Floyd and draft picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. Head coach Raheem Morris highlighted his confidence in the revamped pass-rushing unit during training camp.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens have focused on improving their secondary, which struggled last season. The addition of cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Chidobe Awuzie, along with safety Malaki Starks, aims to bolster the pass defense. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr noted the group's progress during training camp, emphasizing the need for marked improvement in the upcoming season.
In Buffalo, the Bills remain a Super Bowl contender but grapple with concerns about their wide receiver corps. With limited standout options outside of their starting receivers, the team must determine who will step up alongside Khalil Shakir to create a more balanced aerial attack and support quarterback Josh Allen.
The Carolina Panthers will be keenly watching Bryce Young's development after a tumultuous first season. Young expressed his confidence in building upon last year’s late-season success, aided by new offensive additions to provide him with better support. The team hopes to leverage these changes to enhance their offensive performance this year.
The Chicago Bears are investing in Caleb Williams following an unpredictable rookie season. Head coach Ben Johnson has noted the quarterback's growth and comfort level in the offense. However, the success of Williams is contingent upon his ability to execute in games and avoid mistakes as he transitions to a more prominent role.
The Cincinnati Bengals face uncertainty regarding their pass rush and overall defensive performance. The return of sack leader Trey Hendrickson is vital for maintaining a competitive edge after a disappointing season last year. The team hopes that his presence can help prevent exploitation of a potentially vulnerable secondary.
In Cleveland, the quarterback competition intensifies as the Browns evaluate their options for the starting job. Veterans like Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are in the mix, along with rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. The team's decision will largely depend on the performance of each player during training camp.
Dallas is searching for clarity in their running game following a surprise 1,000-yard season from Rico Dowdle that wasn't capitalized on during free agency. New additions, including veterans Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, must prove their worth to provide a more balanced offensive approach.
The Denver Broncos are coming off a surprising playoff appearance, led by rookie quarterback Bo Nix. As the preseason begins, Nix emphasizes his commitment to improving as a player and adapting to the expectations set for the team. Increased pressure is on the Broncos to maintain or exceed their previous success this season.
The Detroit Lions are navigating significant changes in their coaching staff, with new offensive and defensive coordinators stepping in after a historic season for the franchise. Despite an array of talent, their performance in the preseason will be critical to determining how well they can adjust to these coaching shifts.
The Green Bay Packers are rejuvenating their receiving corps with the addition of first-round pick Matthew Golden alongside established young talents. With a crowded position group, the team must identify reliable options to support quarterback Jordan Love as they approach the 2025 season.
The Houston Texans face a crucial test with their revamped offensive line, which struggled last year against opposing defenses. This line is under scrutiny to deliver improved performance and protect quarterback C.J. Stroud as he seeks to solidify his role as a franchise starter.
In Indianapolis, the quarterback battle between Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson highlights the uncertainty surrounding the team's future. With lingering injury concerns for Richardson, the coaching staff is pressured to make a decision that could shape the direction of the offense moving forward.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are under pressure to maximize the potential of quarterback Trevor Lawrence under new head coach Liam Coen. As Coen's offensive scheme differs from Lawrence's previous experiences, both the player and coaching staff aim to establish a cohesive and effective offensive approach in 2025.
The Kansas City Chiefs have prioritized enhancing their offensive line following last season's struggles in protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes. With new talents added, the team's ability to achieve vertical passing success hinges on how well they can work together throughout the preseason.
The Las Vegas Raiders are focusing on their young secondary in the hopes that it can solidify their defensive front as they make strides toward improvement. With head coach Pete Carroll expressing confidence in the group's capabilities, the preseason will reveal how well they can develop cohesively.
The Los Angeles Chargers are evaluating their wide receiver situation to bolster their offensive potential. The need for a reliable second option next to emerging star Ladd McConkey is apparent, as the offense seeks to establish depth and create more balance for quarterback Justin Herbert.
The Los Angeles Rams are scrutinizing their inside linebacker group to address defensive issues that plagued them last season. With various new additions in training camp, competition for playing time could shape the defensive scheme as the preseason unfolds.
The Miami Dolphins are working to rejuvenate their vertical passing game after it faltered last year. With quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's health concerns in mind, finding consistency in the passing game is essential to their postseason aspirations.
The Minnesota Vikings must confront their defensive struggles as they aim to improve their secondary, which ranked 28th against the pass last season. The combination of established and new players will be critical to altering the team's defensive fortunes moving forward.
The New England Patriots are amidst significant changes along their offensive line, aiming to find consistency ahead of the regular season. The restructured unit will look to improve upon last year’s performance, and training camp evaluations will shed light on their effectiveness going forward.
In New Orleans, the competition for the starting quarterback position is marked by uncertainty as Jake Haener, Spencer Rattler, and rookie Tyler Shough vie for playing time. The team's precarious position has the potential to impact their overall success this season.
The New York Giants expect veteran Russell Wilson to lead the offense in the early part of the season, but rookie Jaxson Dart aims to make a case for increased playing time as he continues to develop in training camp.
The New York Jets anticipate a prominent role for receiver Garrett Wilson this season, but the effectiveness of the offense may hinge on the contributions from other pass-catchers, making it crucial for them to step up in training camp.
Finally, the Philadelphia Eagles seek to maintain their defensive dominance from last season despite a reshuffled lineup. The pressure remains on new faces to rise to the occasion and uphold the high standards previously set within the franchise.
As teams confront these pressing questions in the preseason, the ability to adapt, build rapport, and implement strategy will significantly influence their prospects for success in the 2025 NFL season.








