NFL 2026 Training Camp: CBS Sports Outlines Key Storylines and Schedules
A comprehensive review of the 2026 training camp report dates, joint practice schedules, and primary narratives for all 32 teams, highlighting critical player developments and coaching shifts.
CBS Sports has published the 2026 NFL training camp report dates, joint practice schedules, and primary storylines for all 32 teams. The report highlights roster battles, depth chart changes, and specific player developments ahead of the preseason. Key narratives include DJ Moore’s integration into the Buffalo Bills’ offence, Lamar Jackson’s contract situation and fit in the Baltimore Ravens’ new system, and quarterback competitions involving Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson in Cleveland, as well as Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy in Minnesota. Other notable focuses include the health and recovery of players such as Patrick Mahomes, Bo Nix, and Daniel Jones, alongside significant roster shuffles and new coaching impacts across the league.
The Buffalo Bills face immediate pressure to integrate DJ Moore into their offence as their clear number one wide receiver. With the Bills leaning heavily on short passing last year, Moore’s downfield capabilities are crucial for Josh Allen. New offensive coordinator Joe Brady, formerly the Bills’ offensive coordinator, must determine how aggressive the passing game can become. Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins are navigating a young roster after a significant rebuild. They have taken a swing on Malik Willis, who performed well as a backup in Green Bay, but he faces a challenging supporting cast with limited proven wide receivers and offensive line uncertainties.
In Baltimore, Lamar Jackson’s contract situation and fit within the new offensive system under first-time head coach Jesse Minter and offensive coordinator Declan Doyle will dominate attention. Doyle intends to place Jackson under centre more frequently than in previous seasons. The Cleveland Browns present a different dynamic, with a quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson. Sanders showed flashes of potential despite a difficult rookie season, while Watson brings experience in new coach Todd Monken’s system. Viable quarterback play is essential for the Browns to accurately evaluate their other offensive talent.
Health and recovery remain central themes for several franchises. The Indianapolis Colts are monitoring Daniel Jones, who has returned to 7-on-7 drills but has not participated in 11-on-11 sessions this offseason. Jones maintains he is on track for Week 1, but his readiness will be scrutinised during camp. Similarly, the Denver Broncos will watch Bo Nix closely following a second ankle surgery earlier in the year. Nix must also adjust to new play caller Davis Webb and integrate with new wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. The Kansas City Chiefs are tracking Patrick Mahomes’ return from his first major injury, with questions surrounding his practice participation and potential pitch count.
Quarterback battles extend to the Minnesota Vikings, where Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy are competing for the starting role. Head coach Kevin O’Connell has indicated a desire for a competitive environment, noting that progress from McCarthy is vital given his injury history and poor rookie performance. Other notable developments include the Detroit Lions’ offensive line shuffle, with Penei Sewell moving to left tackle, and the Los Angeles Chargers’ new offensive scheme under Mike McDaniel, which aims to elevate Justin Herbert and the running game. These structural changes and personnel shifts define the early phase of the 2026 season.
