The NFL preseason began Thursday night with eager anticipation among fans, marking the start of the 2023 football season. One of the highlights was the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game, where the Chicago Bears faced off against the Houston Texans during the league's Opening Ceremonies.
Joint Practices and Offensive Line Investments
Several teams have taken the opportunity to conduct joint practices against their weekly opponents to hone their skills and strategies. Among these teams, the Los Angeles Chargers have made significant investments in their offensive line, boasting three former first-round picks: Rashawn Slater, Joe Alt, and Zion Johnson. Bradley Bozeman and Trey Pipkins round out the other starting positions, with Jamaree Salyer offering valuable depth.
Rams and Lions Defensive Enhancements
The Los Angeles Rams are focusing on their relatively young defensive front, integrating emerging stars like Byron Young and Kobie Turner. This year’s draft saw the Rams choosing Florida State teammates Jared Verse and Braden Fiske, adding more promising talent to their roster.
Similarly, the Detroit Lions have boosted their cornerback room by acquiring Carlton Davis via trade and signing Amik Robertson. The Lions also drafted promising talents Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr., indicating a robust plan to improve their defensive backfield.
Giants and Falcons Bolster Receiving Corps
On the offensive side, the New York Giants have beefed up their wide receiver lineup by adding LSU draft selection Malik Nabers to a group that already includes Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Jalin Hyatt. The Atlanta Falcons also took steps to enhance their receiving corps, signing Darnell Mooney and trading for Rondale Moore.
Changes in the Dolphins' Secondary
Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins have made strategic changes in their secondary, moving on from cornerback Xavien Howard and signing free agent Kendall Fuller. The Dolphins' secondary now includes stars like Jalen Ramsey, Kader Kohou, Jordan Poyer, and Jevon Holland.
Cowboys’ Draft and Free Agency Moves
The Dallas Cowboys have been active in bolstering their offensive line, selecting Oklahoma right tackle Tyler Guyton in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Although they lost center Tyler Biadasz to free agency, they added Brock Hoffman and drafted Cooper Beebe from Kansas State to fill the gap.
New Faces in the Patriots and Cardinals' Rosters
The New England Patriots are entering the season with a wide receiver group featuring Kendrick Bourne, Demario Douglas, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker. On the defensive end, Arizona has newly drafted players Max Melton and Garrett Williams in its secondary, complementing talents like Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, Elijah Jones, and Jaden Davis.
Offensive and Defensive Upgrades
Indianapolis will see a competitive receiving corps this season with Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, and rookie Adonai Mitchell. In Minnesota, the Vikings strengthened their pass rush by signing Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard, and drafting Dallas Turner.
Last season, the Cleveland Browns were plagued by injuries to their offensive tackles Jedrick Wills, Jack Conklin, and Dawand Jones. This offseason, they're focused on building depth and resilience to avoid similar issues. The Seattle Seahawks made notable acquisitions, securing Dre'Mont Jones and Leonard Williams while drafting Byron Murphy II.
Recognition of Weak Points
The Tennessee Titans, recognizing their league-worst 0.89 yards before contact in their running game from last season, are putting a significant focus on strengthening their run-blocking this year.
Revamped Cornerback Units
Tampa Bay's cornerback unit relies on Zyon McCollum and Jamel Dean, while the Jacksonville Jaguars' receiving room includes Christian Kirk, Gabe Davis, and Brian Thomas Jr. On the other hand, Buffalo features a tight end duo of first-round pick Dalton Kincaid and veteran Dawson Knox.
Strengthening Defense
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made moves to elevate their defense by signing Patrick Queen and drafting Payton Wilson. Over in Cincinnati, the Bengals will rely on young cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and DJ Turner II, both second-round selections.
Key Acquisitions and Trades
The Chicago Bears have a bolstered wide receiver room composed of No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and veteran Keenan Allen. In New York, the Jets made strategic signings by bringing in Tyron Smith and trading for Morgan Moses. They also drafted Penn State offensive tackle Olu Fashanu.
The Baltimore Ravens, having lost Jadeveon Clowney and defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, are focusing on regrouping and rebuilding their defense. Finally, the Houston Texans' wide receiver room has been strengthened with Stefon Diggs, Nico Collins, and Tank Dell, while the Los Angeles Rams' cornerback duo now consists of Tre'Davious White and Darious Williams.
With new talent, strategic signings, and a focus on both offensive and defensive improvements, the NFL preseason is shaping up to be a compelling lead-up to what should be an exciting 2023 football season.