The NFL’s offseason schedule continues this week with three-day minicamps starting on Tuesday for 10 teams. The remaining 22 teams will proceed with organized team activities before holding their minicamps next week.
Offseason meetings and on-field sessions are voluntary until minicamp. However, the mandatory work period has now arrived, allowing teams to fine players who choose not to attend.
These practice sessions assist coaches and players in further preparing for training camp, which kicks off in late July, leading up to the preseason and regular season.
Here are some of the key storylines to watch around the league as minicamps begin.
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Will contract disputes lead to holdouts?
The Vikings recently gave Justin Jefferson a huge new deal, while the Dolphins’ Jaylen Waddle received a substantial contract extension last week. Yet, other talented wide receivers like Brandon Aiyuk, CeeDee Lamb, and Courtland Sutton may consider holding out from minicamp due to contract disputes. In addition, the Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have skipped voluntary OTA sessions amidst contract disagreements.
Meanwhile, Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward are both seeking extensions, with Heyward skipping OTAs.
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New coaching regimes
Seven teams welcomed new head coaches this offseason, and an eighth (the Raiders) promoted their interim coach, Antonio Pierce, to the full-time position. Minicamp will provide the first opportunity for these coaches to meet with their teams in full. The same goes for the 15 new offensive coordinators and 16 new defensive coordinators.
Early QB competitions
At least five teams, and potentially six, are expected to have quarterback competitions this summer. Some notable players returning from serious injuries will also participate in minicamp to evaluate their progress.