Training Camp Takeaways From Every Team
Kevin Coleman looks at every NFL's teams top storylines from training camp and their fantasy implications.
As the NFL preseason ramps up, training camps across the league are in full swing, providing fans and analysts alike with the first glimpses of their teams' offseason progress. With new rookies trying to make their mark, veterans vying for starting positions, and coaches implementing fresh strategies, there's no shortage of storylines to follow. In this article, we dive into the most compelling takeaways from each of the 32 NFL teams' training camps. From breakout performances to injury updates and strategic shifts, we cover all the key insights you need to know as we head into the new season. Let's explore what each team has been up to and what it might mean for their upcoming campaign.
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NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys
The battle for WR3 is heating up! Jalen Tolbert, who entered camp as the favorite to win the job, has been a standout since the opening day of practice. He and Prescott worked out together in the offseason, and their chemistry is clear. It looks like Tolbert will be named the starter, barring any injury.
Tyron Billy-Johnson is another deep name to watch for. He’s been around the league forever but has had a solid start to camp, and there is opportunity in the Dallas wide receiver room.
OT Tyler Guyton has looked like a first-round pick. He’s already earned first-team reps and is playing well in those reps. If he can continue developing, there could be less concern for Dallas to replace Tyron Smith, and this offensive line would have a huge bump heading into the 2024 season.
Trey Lance is struggling to take over the QB2 job. There have been positive reports about Lance from training camp, but many observers have noted his struggles, particularly with his vision, which have led to interceptions. The preseason will be crucial for Lance to win over fans and demonstrate to the Cowboys that he can live up to the expectations set when they traded for him last year.
LB Willie Harvey has put together a nice run early in camp. Harvey Jr. has reemerged as a notable prospect for NFL executives following an impressive season with the UFL's St. Louis Battlehawks. During his stint, he tallied 76 tackles, four sacks, and nine tackles for loss. Standing at 5'11" and weighing 229 pounds, Harvey Jr. is considered undersized for a linebacker but has shown versatility by playing inside at Mike linebacker when needed. He’s shown to be capable against the pass, coming up with an interception against Trey Lance, and has made plays against the run. He’ll make a push for the 53-man roster.
Jake Ferguson is having the best camp of his career and looks like the clear WR2 option on this team behind CeeDee Lamb.
He emphasized weight this off-season and is now up 15 pounds to 255 pounds. While CeeDee Lamb has been holding out, it’s allowed Ferguson to get a ton of reps. Dallas will have more targets to distribute this year with Michael Gallup and Tony Pollard no longer on the roster. Jake Ferguson is also expected to step up and absorb most of those targets, and based on his current ADP, he could be a value in all formats right now.
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Jake Ferguson FOR Hollywood Brown
Jake Ferguson FOR Alvin Kamara/Mike Gesicki/2025 2nd
Jake Ferguson FOR 2026 2nd
Jake Ferguson/Josh Downs FOR Calvin Ridley
Jake Ferguson FOR Chigoziem Okonkwo/2025 2nd
“A lot of it was my speed, but also at the end of the year I finished at 240 lbs. and while I was still strong... that wasn’t the weight I can move guys at. At the exit interview coach was like we can get you to 250, 255... and right now I’m sitting at 255. I ran faster in all my testing. Ran faster than I did at the Combine. And then tested all and I lift better. I feel really good right now. Feel like I’m running well. Obviously... pads aren’t on yet so real football’s yet to be played.” — Ferguson said while speaking with reporters.
The running back room is still a giant question mark. As of now, here’s how the competition seems to be playing out based on multiple reports from beat reporters:
Ezekiel Elliott
Royce Freeman
Rico Dowdle
Malik Davis
Deuce Vaughn
Snoop Conner
Nathaniel Peat
Hunter Luepke (Fullback)
By all accounts, this is Zeke’s job. However, there is an exciting battle for RB2 on the roster. Many expected Dowdle to be the favorite to win the job, but reports say that Royce Freeman was the surprise of camp. Freeman was among the few free agents the Cowboys signed this offseason. Last year, he played for the Rams; he ran 77 times for 319 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Freeman has stood out in training camp, earning praise from Cowboys COO Stephen Jones. Jones mentioned on Monday that Freeman will be part of the rotation alongside Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle. Freeman could be a great buy-low or waiver-wire addition for a contending roster.
Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts has looked great in the early parts of camp. Reports show he is throwing the ball accurately and has yet to throw an interception in camp. More importantly, it looks like he has improved his deep ball and has shown the ability to get it to all areas of the football field. He seems healthy, which will play a big part in that consistency downfield. The one critique so far is that he is still holding onto the football for too long, leading to sacks. It’s an area of his game he’ll need to improve.
One big winner so far in camp is WR DeVonta Smith. He has made acrobatic catches and looks even faster this off-season. He has gotten many rave reviews from coaches and teammates alike and could be a potential WR1 in fantasy leagues. His ability to get open, especially against man coverage, is his strength, and if Jalen Hurts continues to improve, we could see another big year from Smith.
"Nobody has been able to cover DeVonta all camp," fellow wideout A.J. Brown said ahead of the Eagles' open practice over at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday night. "He's having an amazing camp. I think the offense is doing a really good job. Really just trying to execute, it takes all players – Jalen's been doing a great job as well.
Another surprise from camp has been rookie RB Will Shipley. Shipley has shown confidence and skill as a receiver, making several catches during the first week of camp. He doesn’t seem like a rookie at all. His speed, highlighted by a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at Clemson's pro day, has been evident on the field, and he has gotten first-team reps. He is competing for RB2 on this depth chart and is a great target out there for fantasy managers. The one area he needs to improve is his pass blocking. He has struggled with his pass-blocking reps later in the week, and if he wants to get on the field, he will need the coaching staff to trust him to protect Jalen Hurts.
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Will Shipley FOR Ezekiel Elliott
Will Shipley FOR 2025 2nd
Will Shipley FOR Kareem Hunt
Will Shipley/2025 3rd FOR Michael Wilson
Will Shipley FOR Keaton Mitchell
TE Dallas Goedert has caught three touchdown passes so far in camp, and it looks like he is finally healthy. One area of note for Goedert has been their emphasis on getting him looks in the redzone, especially with play-action. If this team emphasizes targets for him in the redzone, he could be a value at his current ADP.
Speaking of tight ends, Grant Calcaterra looks to be the Eagles’ TE2
Rookie WR Ainias Smith has struggled to return from an injury and has looked shaky as a punt returner.
Rookie WR Johnny Wilson looks like a lock to make the roster. He has gotten some first-team reps, but the team has praised his work ethic. He has looked good in 1-on-1 drills and is making a name for himself on the team.
New York Giants
Malik Nabers has arrived. Few rookies this early in the camp have generated the buzz Nabers has in training camp. Nearly every day, Nabers makes a highlight-worthy catch, whether a deep route or a sideline grab. It's easy to envision him starting the 2024 season as Daniel Jones' clear-cut No. 1 target. The battle for rookie WR1 between him and Marvin Harrison Jr. will be fun to watch this season.
Daniel Jones has been inconsistent thus far in camp. At times, he has been wildly inconsistent and undergoing players all camp. He’s struggled to make easy throws and has missed backs in the flat at an alarming rate. This could easily be rust coming after a severe injury in November. Still, Jones needs to set up, or it becomes increasingly unlikely he will be the Giant's starter after this season. There were flashes, though, including a forty-yard bomb to Malik Nabers on the sideline that was perfectly placed. The knock on Jones hasn’t been about talent; it's more about consistency. He’s not dispelling those knocks as of now.
Sleeper RB to watch: Dante Miller
Dante Miller has shown out at camp. The 25-year-old rookie has played well enough to push second-year running back Eric Gray for a roster spot. Miller had an impressive collegiate career at Columbia, where he rushed for 1,703 yards and 25 touchdowns on 217 carries. He also caught 20 passes for 217 yards and three touchdowns, totaling 30 touchdowns overall. In his senior year, he rushed for 1,327 yards and 19 touchdowns on 158 carries, averaging 8.4 yards per carry, and caught eight passes for 94 yards. His 4.27 40-yard dash has been showing up all over camp, and he’s a name to continue to watch out for.
LB Dyontae Johnson is pushing for a starting spot on the defense. In his final season with Toledo in 2022, Johnson had 91 combined tackles, eight tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles. He’s been one of the more impressive defensive players early in camp.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders got a special player when they drafted Michigan CB Mike Sainristil. He has spent most of the camp as the starting nickel cornerback and has showcased his unique talent in coverage and against the run. Head coach Dan Quinn has raved about his ball skills and ability to win in one-on-one drills against the Commander's receivers repeatedly. It was also noted that he’s getting kickoff and punt return reps, and if you play in IDP leagues, it could be worth a pickup if you get points for special teams.
Brian Robinson Jr. has had the best camp of his career. He has looked like the Commanders' best running back, and even more importantly, he has improved as a pass catcher. He is battling for RB1 with Austin Ekeler, but Robinson seems to have that spot sewn up already. If he can also be a pass-catching option, he should be a great target in dynasty and redraft based on his current ADP.
Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters might have found the team's future starting left tackle in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft. The Commanders chose Brandon Coleman from TCU with the No. 67 overall pick.
Initially considered a potential guard or swing tackle, Coleman has turned heads at training camp with his impressive performance, drawing significant attention as a rookie. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound tackle looks like he could be protecting rookie quarterback Jayden Daniel’s blindside this season.The Commanders' biggest weakness right now is their offensive line. Multiple young players are vying for roster spots, and injuries have started to accumulate. As of now, only two players can be penciled in as starters: C Tyler Biadasz and RG Sam Cosmi. It will be interesting how this unit as a whole shapes up, and if they don’t get it figured out, we could see Jayden Daniels struggle this season.
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals
It’s Greg Dortch’s world and we are all just living in it. The Cardinals slot receiver has been on absolute fire this training camp. The staff has upped his usage offensively and he has been one of the major highlights of camp. They are using him in the slot and he has taken a noticeable amount of reps at the running back position. This Cardinals offense has a chance to be a top-10 unit in the league this season and Dortch could be the sneaky add you can do right now in your dynasty league.
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Greg Dortch/2025 4th FOR Quentin Johnston
Greg Dortch/2025 2nd FOR Keenan Allen
Greg Dortch/2025 3rd FOR Darnell Mooney
Rome Odunze/Greg Dortch FOR George Pickens
Greg Dortch FOR Ty Chandler
Marvin Harrison remains a stud and is good at football!
The Cardinals have seen their fair share of injuries this camp, and the more concerning injury occurred with starting center Hjalte Froholdt, who got rolled up on. Fortunately, Froholdt could walk around afterward but didn't participate in the rest of the practice. With Froholdt sidelined, the Cardinals shifted starting left guard candidate Evan Brown to center. Rookie Isaiah Adams initially filled in at left guard for Brown, but he was later replaced by Jon Gaines II, who has been impressing the coaching staff nine months after a season-ending knee injury in his rookie year. Overall, the Cardinals' offensive line is a work in progress and will need to remain healthy with the lack of depth.
Los Angeles Rams
The tight end room is wide open while Tyler Higbee recovers from a torn ACL and MCL. Among the three tight ends backing up Higbee for the Rams—Colby Parkinson, Hunter Long, and Davis Allen—Parkinson has appeared the most refined. Last season, Parkinson caught 25 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns. However, the coaching staff has emphasized that Allen looks great in the red zone. He has also received praise from Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur.
Just like the tight end room, there is a battle brewing in the receiver room. The locks from the room to make the 53-man roster will be Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Demarcus Robinson, TuTu Atwell, and probably Jordan Whittington. However, there is a battle brewing for the WR6 spot between Tyler Johnson and Xavier Smith. Johnson was the former star of the Minnesota Gophers and is trying to make a roster in his 5th season in the NFL. McVay has praised him throughout camp. Here’s a quick snippet:
“I’ve been really impressed," McVay said. "I think he’s been one of the bright spots in terms of the overall improvement, a guy that’s comfortable doing what we’re asking. He’s an NFL player. He can make plays. He’s big, physical. You can see he’s running better as well. He’s got great aggressive hands at the contact point, but I think he’s doing an excellent job being able to work edges.”
While Johnson has looked good, so has Xavier Smith. He has made highlight plays almost every day in camp and continues to catch every football thrown his way.
One injury to watch from this roster is LG Jonah Jackson. He is expected to miss preseason with a bruised scapula but should be ready in week one. Outside of Jackson, the offensive line seems as healthy as it has been in years and looks deeper. They plan to run more 12-personnel sets this season and have beefed up their offensive line with athletic players who are extremely physical. This should be music to the ears of every Matthew Stafford, Kyren Williams, and Blake Corum fantasy manager out there.
Early reports out of camp also indicate this offense has top-5 potential. McVay is one of the best playcallers in the NFL, and they will be utilizing much more motion in their offense this season, similar to what Mike McDaniels uses in Miami. Look for Puka Nacua and Demarcus Robinson to be utilized in the “cheat” motion that Miami uses and we could see big things for this offense. It’s one of the reasons that Matthew Stafford should be a late-round target in redraft this season. He checks all the boxes.
According to Jourdan Rodrigue from the Athletic: “Puka Nacua left practice a little over an an hour into it after a team drills period, and did not return to play but stayed in uniform and helmet on sideline. He had a bag of ice wrapped around his right knee. Sean McVay says he is “not sure” what happened.”
As of now there are no further reports of the injury but it is one to watch.
San Francisco 49ers
The ongoing saga of the two current holdouts, OT Trent Williams and WR Brandon Aiyuk, has been a hot topic. The situation with Aiyuk is shrouded in mystery. While there are reports of potential lucrative offers from the Cleveland Browns and the New England Patriots, the 49ers seem hesitant to part with their WR1. The rumors are swirling, but it's a puzzle that even the most well-connected insiders might not have all the pieces to.
While the Aiyuk saga has taken over the off-season and training camp, Trent Williams absence may be more critical to the team. Kyle Shanahan has proved he can scheme up an offense with various playmakers, but this team will struggle without Williams. Team insider Grant Cohn has expressed frustration with the 49ers offensive line in camp. They have struggled to stop pressure from getting to Purdy and run block as a group. That has led to Purdy throwing more interceptions in camp and Christian McCaffrey struggling to find open space. While the Aiyuk extension is a priority, this team needs to get Williams into camp.
In Aiyuk’s absence, we've witnessed the emergence of new talents stepping up to fill the void. Jacob Cowing and Ricky Pearsall have both had a stellar camp. Pearsall, despite starting with a hamstring injury, has made a strong comeback. His chemistry with Purdy, developed during the non-contact period in the spring, is promising. If Aiyuk's situation changes, we can expect a significant rise in Pearsall’s value, both in terms of ADP and dynasty.
Kicker Jake Moody has had a near-perfect camp and has only missed two field goals. He is gaining confidence, and the 49ers staff believes he can make any kick.
CB Deommodore Lenoir is balling right now. He has played every step of the way and has frustrated Purdy throughout camp, accounting for multiple interceptions. He has been unstoppable in man-to-man coverage and has improved in zone coverage. His versatility should be utilized by the 49ers this season. He can play outside nickelback and has shown the ability to stop the run. For a defense that needs depth at the position, Lenoir is a pivotal piece for the title chances in 2024.
Seattle Seahawks
The biggest story out of Seattle is that Geno Smith is currently out while undergoing imaging for his knee/hip area. The coaching staff has reiterated that this is precautionary and that he won’t miss any significant time, but it’s relevant to fantasy. The 33-year-old Smith was already under pressure after the team brought in Sam Howell this off-season and gave him a new contract. Smith has been one of my biggest sellers for the last two years in the dynasty, and it seems like his time is slowly ending in Seattle, with or without the injury.
Sam Howell is showing improvement. Howell has been up and down in camp, but the one area that stands out is his experience. He’s a backup quarterback with 17 career starts and under 24 years old. With his first reps as QB1 with Smith out, he looked good throwing to second-year receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and threw a highlight-worthy touchdown to DK Metcalf. Based on his current market value, Howell could be a great target if you want a QB3 with upside in superflex leagues. Here’s his current SF value:
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Sam Howell FOR Antonio Gibson
Sam Howell FOR Jacoby Brissett/2027 2nd
Sam Howell FOR 2025 3rd
Sam Howell FOR Ezekiel Elliott
Sam Howell FOR Jimmy Garoppolo/2027 2nd
While Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, Smith-Njigba, and Jake Bobo dominate the spotlight, other receivers have also impressed in camp, including Dareke Young, now entering his third season. Young made his impact felt on special teams as a rookie and began seeing more offensive action late in the season. Injuries limited him to six games last year, but now fully healthy, he's made several big catches in camp, including a notable catch-and-run on Friday. He’s fast and big, which goes a long way to making the roster, and new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb could love his versatility.
The best defensive players on the field are CB Devon Witherspoon and S Julian Love. Love has been unstoppable in coverage and has multiple picks in camp. He’s also been utilized as a blitzer and an impact player all over the field. Witherspoon has also shown out in coverage and looks like he’s ready to take another leap as one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks. Pair them with Tariq Woolen, and the Seahawks secondary might be the best top-to-bottom in the NFL.
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams has looked amazing. Beat reporters have said that he has been consistently strong during the 7-on-7 periods of the initial practices. He has looked precise and accurate in almost all his throws and has spread the ball around to multiple recievers. The one skill set that Williams has brought over from college is his ability to make plays outisde the pocket and on the run. He made a standout play by avoiding a sack, navigating a crowded pocket, and escaping to the left to deliver a jump pass to Keenan Allen, who secured a toe-tapping catch for a 10-yard gain. He has shown a strong connection with Keenan Allen early in camp which is something to note for fantasy purposes.
Second-year receiver Tyler Scott has emerged as a standout. Scott has been on the receiving end of several impressive deep completions from Williams in the first four practices, showcasing their growing connection. Despite Chicago's deep receiver corps, featuring Moore, Allen, and Odunze, Scott is making a strong case to secure a spot on the 53-man roster as yet another valuable target for Williams in the passing game. Scott is the type of player that you could possibly add on your dynasty roster if there are shallow benches and he’s likely worth the stash. If he does make the roster he could be they type pf weapon they also use on special teams and with the changed kickoff return rules he could hold value.
Rome Odunze has also been performing well at camp. He’s been the primary target for Caleb Williams in the two-minute drill, and they look to be developing a ton of chemistry. The staff has repeatedly mentioned how incredible he is as a redzone weapon.
The Bears should be looking to make additions to the offensive line. G Nate Davis is injured again, and it’s unclear how long this injury will sideline him. The Bears signed Davis to a three-year, $30 million contract in 2023, hoping to bolster their offensive line with the former Tennessee Titans starter. However, issues have arisen in the last two seasons, and he’s only played in 11 games in that timeframe. With the accelerated timeline for the Bears and Caleb Williams on a rookie contract, it might be time for the Bears to look for his replacement.
Detroit Lions
Is it finally time for Jameson Williams to breakout? Heading into his third season, Williams adopted a more professional approach, evident in his camp performance. He appears much more comfortable in the offense, making plays across the field, not just on deep routes. Part of that comfort level with Jared Goff is the off-season work they put in in California. Williams has done all the right things this off-season, which is paying off. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson recently said there seems to be nothing he can’t do on the field, and that is a ringing endorsement from one of the best offensive coordinators in football.
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Jameson Williams FOR 2025 2nd
Jameson Williams/2025 3rd FOR Christian Kirk
Jameson Williams/2025 2nd FOR Jake Ferguson/2025 3rd
Jameson Williams FOR Brian Robinson/2026 2nd
Jameson Williams/2025 2nd FOR Najee Harris
CB Ennis Rakestraw looks like another hit for Lions GM Brad Holmes. He has shown great physicality and a knack for getting takeaways. He has had multiple interceptions since participating in camp and is making a push to be a day 1 starter this season. The Lions' one major weakness last season was their secondary, but Rakestraw could change their 2024 outlook.
RB Jermar Jefferson continues to have a strong camp. He hasn’t made the active roster since 2021 but still keeps returning after playing on the practice squad. He fits Dan Campbell’s philosophy well, and the team has emphasized keeping him on the roster over the last three seasons. He has an uphill battle to make the roster, with the depth chart already having Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Craig Reynolds, and Sione Vaki on it. But Jefferson has stood out as a special teams contributor, pass catcher, and, most notably, a pass protector. He has been the most reliable pass protector out of anyone on the roster.
The two players that seem to be struggling the most in campo are backup quarterback Hendon Hooker and WR Donovan Peoples-Jones. Peoples-Jones is being outplayed by fellow WR Daurice Fountain and needs to catch up in a battle for a roster spot. Hooker has struggled with accuracy and timing in the offense. Two things you must do well in this scheme. He looks like he is no more than a spot starter, and the Lions could be looking to add to that room.
Green Bay Packers
Jordan Love looks like an MVP candidate this season. Coaches have raved about his ability to read defenses in camp. His decision-making has improved tenfold, and he has looked great in two-minute drill situations. With Love getting a lucrative contract extension, there is a ton of pressure for him to step up and lead the Packers further in the playoffs this season. Based on early reports, that may be happening.
Marshawn Lloyd is finally practicing. Lloyd missed the first six training camp practices after suffering a hip injury during a workout after all the rookies reported to camp. Fortunately, it was just a minor hip strain. Reports out of Green Bay is that the team will ease Lloyd in this season with A.J. Dillon being the team’s primary RB2 on the depth chart. While that can certainly be the case, Lloyd is still a valuable dynasty asset and could take over as soon as 2025, depending on what the team sees in Josh Jacobs this season. Jacobs is dealing with a nagging groin injury, which we have witnessed him deal with in his career.
The offensive line could be an issue. Their starting center, Josh Myers, has been absent from the team due to a personal matter, and starting right tackle Zach Tom has a pectoral injury. With Myers not available, the team has seen a revolving door at the center position. Andre Dillard and Kadeem Telfort have been tasked to replace Toms for the time being, and both have been exposed by the Packers' defensive line. The offensive line depth could be a key issue down the season's stretch.
There are two big battles heading into their first preseason game: safety and backup quarterback. At safety, a three-way competition has been unfolding between second-year player Anthony Johnson Jr. and rookies Javon Bullard and Evan Williams. Although all three have had standout moments, Bullard appears to be leading the pack. The backup quarterback spot is much more uncertain. Sean Clifford struggled early in camp when Love was not practicing, allowing 7th-round pick Michael Pratt to move up the depth chart a bit. This battle will likely come down to how they play in the preseason, but Pratt is the much better quarterback.
Minnesota Vikings
J.J. McCarthy Vs. Sam Darnold is just heating up. This competition looked like a one-way affair early in camp, but McCarthy has been playing extremely well the last few days. Here is head coach Kevin O’Connell’s take on the competition:
“As far as that depth chart in that room, I think it’s clear and obvious — like you guys do; you make the commitment to come out every day — you see it’s pretty darn even between Sam and J.J. And in many cases, J.J. getting a couple more [reps] with our ability to add some developmental stuff for the guys down the line.”
McCarthy has slowly been earning O’Connell’s trust this preseason and is now starting to get first-team reps in practice. He earned his first reps Friday when the team was doing 11-on-11 red zone drills. They are taking a slow approach with McCarthy, which is the right thing to do, but McCarthy’s talent might just win out during camp.
The name that keeps popping up throughout training camp for the Vikings is WR Jalen Nailor, a sixth-round pick in 2022. The Minnesota receivers coach has sung Nailor’s praises early in camp, and as long as he stays healthy, he will be Minnesota’s WR3 on the roster. Nailor is currently only owned in 11% of dynasty leagues on Sleeper, and that number should be much higher. Go out and add Nailor to your dynasty teams.
The secondary could be in significant trouble. It took a major hit with Mekhi Blackmon's and Shaquil Griffin's injuries. Blackmon will miss the entire season, and Griffin’s timetable remains unknown. Outside of Byron Murphy Jr., this secondary could be in trouble, especially if the injuries continue to mount. Not to mention, safety Lewis Cine looks like he will be cut after dealing with another injury.
Ty Chandler could be a smart handcuff to add to your roster. Aaron Jones is 29 and struggled to stay healthy last season. Chandler has looked good in camp, and this could be a more 1A to 1B situation than we think. Chandler showed he can be an explosive back out of the backfield and could be dangerous down the season's stretch. He finished as a top-36 back in four of the five games he started after week ten last season. While he isn’t a workhorse, he’s a good change of back who could see RB2 volume with an Aaron Jones injury.
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Ty Chandler FOR Joe Flacco/2025 4th
Ty Chandler/Chigoziem Okonkwo FOR Kendre Miller
Ty Chandler/Ty Johnson FOR Gus Edwards
Ty Chandler FOR Theo Johnson
Ty Chandler FOR Antonio Gibson
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons
Is it finally Kyle Pitts year? Beat reporters in Atlanta who have covered the team his entire tenure have said this has been his best camp yet. He has been close to unguardable in one-on-ones and is finally healthy. He’s excelled in contested catch situations and jump balls, and Kirk Cousins's impact on him can't be understated. Cousins' accuracy and ability to get the football in the only spot Pitts needs to catch it has been unmatched. Zac Robinson has emphasized his versatility, and it’s hard not to believe Pitts will smash in this offense.
The battle for WR3 will be the most important battle on this roster for fantasy purposes. Ray-Ray McCloud and Rondale Moore are battling for the role in this Zac Robinson-led offense, and whoever wins the job will have fantasy relevancy. After a slow start, Rondale Moore started playing better, especially with rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The two have hooked up for multiple catches and have been the second team’s go-to duo. Moore has slowly stayed to get first-team reps as camp progressed. Ray-Ray McCloud hasn’t done anything to lose the job but hasn’t locked it up either. Moore gives this offense another dynamic weapon that can take the top of the defense with his vertical ability. It’s a close battle, but if Moore continues to trend up, it’s hard to imagine he won’t win the job.
Atlanta rookies are performing well.
Fifth-round linebacker J.D. Bertrand has recorded multiple sacks and earned a reputation as a player who will get after the football. Beat reporters have noted he has locked down the No.4 linebacker position.
Third-round outside linebacker Bralen Trice has also started trending up and is getting first-team reps. He has played as an outside backer and inside with his hand in the dirt.
6th-round running back Jase McClellan has looked good after missing all OTAs and minicamp with an injury. McClellan was a player I was a fan of coming out of Alabama. If he can continue his excellent play, he can be RB3 or RB4 on the depth chart.
2023 3rd-round pick DE Zach Harrison looks primed and ready to go after a lackluster 2023 season. After the first 13 appearances of his rookie season, Harrison had zero sacks, tackles for loss, and just one quarterback hit. In his final three, he broke through, notching three sacks, four tackles for loss, four quarterback hits, and a pass deflection. That end-of-the-year spurt helped prepare him for the off-season. He added 20 pounds this off-season and is transitioning into a solid rotational piece for the defense. The Falcons have needed to add a pass rusher to the defense, and if Harrison develops into a serviceable piece, this defensive line will get a massive boost.
Carolina Panthers
Rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders is turning heads at camp early. The Panthers have suffered several injuries at the position, opening the door for Sanders. Here’s what head coach Dave Canales has said about him thus far:
"It's exponential growth, every day," Canales said. "What I've seen him do is just kinda really take big leaps in the techniques. And you'll see that with young guys. You'll see big leaps, and then you wanna get them to the point where it's consistent. And then we take our incremental growth—just like some of the veteran guys who have been around.
"So JT is taking those steps that we're looking for. Made a big play at Fan Fest to end it, to end the scrimmage on a corner. Had a couple nice plays today, nice catches. He's doin' it. He's making the most of his opportunity. It's pushed him right up with that first group, to be able to show the guys you can count on him and he's been really dependable with that."
The most significant part of training camp is taking advantage of the opportunities presented to you, and Sanders is doing just that with his play. If he can become a safety blanket for Bryce Young in this offense, we could be looking at a viable TE2 in fantasy in the near future. As long as he continues to develop as a blocker, he’ll see opportunities early to get on the field and make an impact.
Even with the doubters, Bryce Young has been fantastic in camp. Young seems like his old self when he was in Alabama. Young was one of the smartest players in his draft class, and his ability to process the field was second to no other. His out-of-structure playmaking was off the charts, and his ability to make plays out of the pocket and under pressure was elite. His accuracy is also a strength, especially in the intermediate and short areas of the field. We’re starting to see that old Bryce Young with some of his signature swagger back under Dave Canales. He has slowly regained his confidence and targeted all his first-team receivers. It’s hard to imagine that he doesn’t live up to his current ADP and exceed it as the season comes—Buy Bryce Young in dynasty.
Jonathon Brooks is out for the pre-season. Panthers coach Dave Canales announced that Brooks has been ruled out for the preseason as he recovers from a torn ACL sustained at Texas. His availability for the season opener against the New Orleans Saints is also uncertain, with Canales considering him "doubtful" for Week 1. He’ll most likely see action starting week four or five. He’s the type of asset to keep on your watchlist. If a win-now manager has him on a roster and they start the season slow in the first few weeks, you should see if you could add him by throwing a few veterans his way. Captilaize in impatience with Brooks; he should provide fantasy points down the season's stretch. It would not shock me to see him be a legitimate RB2 the last half of the season, assuming he is healthy.
New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara is in line for a ton of volume in 2024. Kendre Miller can’t seem to stay healthy, and Jamaal Williams looked like a shell of his former self last season. So far, in training camp, he hasn’t done anything worthwhile. Meanwhile, old, reliable Kamara looks like he will be a value at the running back position. Managers forget that Kamara finished as the RB5 in points per game last year and has been one of the steadiest running backs in fantasy for his entire career. He had the second most receptions among running backs last seen with 75 and had 86 targets while missing four games. His efficiency metrics have decreased each year, but this is a case of opportunity = volume. With the running backs behind him failing to catch up and the injuries that have occurred in the wide receiver room, Kamara looks like he could be a potential league winner as someone who is being drafted as RB19 in redraft leagues. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s scheme complements his game well, and we should see him earn the second-most targets again on this roster.
12 Team Dynasty SF Values
Alvin Kamara FOR 2026 2nd
Alvin Kamara FOR Austin Ekeler
Alvin Kamara FOR Jaylen Warren
Alvin Kamara FOR Stefon Diggs
Alvin Kamara FOR 2025 2nd/2026 3rd
Spencer Rattler is turning heads early. He’s in a position battle with Jake Haener for the QB2 role, but it would not shock me to see Rattler make some starts over QB1 Derek Carr this season. Wide receiver Chris Olave has talked about Rattler’s arm strength, and the two have developed a great connection. Rattler has a calm demeanor and has picked up on the system well. He should easily be the QB2 heading into the season and is a great deep add in superflex leagues. If Carr misses any time due to injury or is benched for poor play, Rattler could be a nice fantasy producer.
The Saints have suffered a ton of injuries to their wide receiver room. Jermaine Jackson was recently injured and then waived. Rookie Bub Means has also not practiced, and Cedrick Wilson Jr. and Equanimeous St. Brown have also missed multiple practices. Chris Olave has also suffered a few injuries, most recently his shoulder injury. With the injuries, the Saints have brought in Marquez Callaway and Samson Nacua.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
During the Buccaneers’ training camp, rookie receiver Jalen McMillan has become a standout, quickly becoming one of Baker Mayfield's favored targets. McMialln has a knack for getting open and Mayfield has found it a habit of throwing him the ball. Many around the organization feel like it’s McMillan’s job to lose as the WR3 on the depth chart. His precise route-running and ability to break away from defenders have been impressive, earning significant praise from Head Coach Todd Bowles:
“He’s having an outstanding camp,” Bowles remarked. “From day one, he’s been making plays consistently. His intelligence and eagerness to improve are evident. The receiving group has embraced him, and I like how he’s progressing.”
Rookie RB Bucky Irving could have a bigger than expected role in this offense. The Buccaneers have used Irving as a pass catcher and he is an instrumental part of their screen game. He’s explosive and his short area quickness has been on full display at camp. New offensive coordinator Liam Coen has done a greta job of implementing an offensive scheme that can utilize both Rachaad White and Bucky Irving in their respective roles.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a severe blow to their offensive line depth. Buccaneers guard Sua Opeta, who the team signed from the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency to compete for the left guard spot against Ben Bredeson, suffered a torn ACL and will be out for the season. The Opeta injury hurts the team's depth. The following players in line are sixth-round draft pick Elijah Klein and lineman Robert Hainsey. That time of an injury to the offensive line can be brutal, and they will need to remain healthy for the Buccaneers offense to remain viable in fantasy.
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AFC East
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