NFL 2026: Eight franchises face critical roster and coaching uncertainties ahead of August preseason

The 2026 National Football League preseason has commenced, presenting a critical window for eight franchises to resolve significant structural and personnel uncertainties before the regular season begins in September. According to an analysis published by CBS Sports on 13 August 2026, the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, Philadelphia Eagles, and Jacksonville Jaguars are the teams most in need of August repetitions to solidify their rosters and integrate new systems.

The Miami Dolphins face a complex transition involving a new offensive system under head coach Bobby Slowik and a new starting quarterback in Malik Willis. Willis, who previously operated in the Green Bay Packers’ system, must adapt to a new scheme without the receiving weapons he previously utilised. The Dolphins’ wide receiver corps has been significantly depleted, with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle departing, leaving a battle among returning players and recent draft picks including Caleb Douglas and Kevin Coleman Jr. Additionally, the secondary presents major concerns, with several players injured and new acquisitions like Chris Johnson expected to start immediately.

In Cleveland, the Browns are managing a quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, while simultaneously reconstructing an offensive line that lost all five of its top starters from the previous year. First-round pick Spencer Fano is expected to start at left tackle, joining a new unit that includes Joel Bitonio and Elgton Jenkins. The wide receiver group also faces internal competition, with Jerry Jeudy, rookie KC Concepcion, and Denzel Boston vying for roles in an offence that requires significant cohesion.

The Las Vegas Raiders are navigating a dual transition with a new first-year head coach, Klint Kubiak, and a roster undergoing substantial changes, particularly on defence. The addition of Kwity Paye, Nakobe Dean, and Quay Walker aims to bolster a defence anchored by Maxx Crosby. Quarterback Fernando Mendoza requires live game repetitions to develop, while the wide receiver group, led by Tre Tucker and Brock Bowers, must establish chemistry with new additions like Jalen Nailor.

The New York Jets, under head coach Aaron Glenn, are utilising the preseason to settle key position battles across the defence. Azareye’h Thomas and Nahshon Wright are competing for the starting cornerback role opposite Brandon Stephens, while a trio of safeties battles for the position next to Minkah Fitzpatrick. The team’s high-profile rookie class, including second overall pick David Bailey and third-round selection Omar Cooper Jr., will seek to earn playing time in their first NFL action.

Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith faces a quarterback battle between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr., the latter recovering from a torn ACL. Tagovailoa must demonstrate improved decision-making after throwing 15 interceptions last season, supported by a talented receiving corps including Bijan Robinson and Drake London. The defence also requires integration, with James Pearce Jr. facing suspension and Jalon Walker out for the season, opening opportunities for Azeez Ojulari and Samson Ebukam.

The Arizona Cardinals are preparing for a new era under first-year head coach Mike LaFleur, who inherits a roster projected to be among the league’s weakest. The quarterback position features Jacoby Brissett as the likely starter, though rookie Carson Beck has generated attention with an efficient performance in the Hall of Fame Game. LaFleur’s extended four-game preseason schedule provides additional time to evaluate the roster and implement his strategic vision.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni is implementing a new offensive system under coordinator Sean Mannion, which emphasises outside zone runs and more quarterback involvement. Jalen Hurts will seek preseason reps to adapt to this new approach, while the team addresses the void left by A.J. Brown’s departure. New weapons including Dontayvion Wicks, Hollywood Brown, and rookie Makai Lemon must establish themselves alongside DeVonta Smith.

The Jacksonville Jaguars face significant challenges in replacing key free agents, including running back Travis Etienne Jr., linebacker Devin Lloyd, and cornerback Greg Newsome II. Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Bhayshul Tuten will compete for rushing duties, while Travis Hunter, a former first overall pick, attempts to fill Newsome’s role in the secondary. The team’s draft class, often criticised by pundits, will be tested to see if any players can make an immediate impact.