What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week

Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week Joe Bryant Published 08/08/2022

One of the best and most comprehensive features we do every year is our Footballguys August Updates. Every week this month, our Bob Henry and Clayton Gray and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.

While I encourage you to read every word on every team for every week, I also understand "Life Happens". And one of the more valuable services Footballguys can add is saving you time.

For this article, I had the idea of taking the full August Updates and asking our team writers to distill it down into 80 proof shots of the Need-to-Know material. Some teams will have more news than others because that's how it works in real life. Much of it will be from the August Updates, some of it will be my takes, but all of it will hopefully be useful to you. And make sure to jump on our Premium Subscription to continue seeing this type of stuff all year long. And if this feature is helpful to you, shoot me an email at bryant@footballguys.com and let me know.

Plus a new addition for this year. For each team, I've included a link to our Depth Charts and also to the Full Camp Report. If you like these bullets and want more detail, check out the Full Camp Report for each team.

Let's get to it.

Arizona Cardinals | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Kyler Murray signed his contract and returned to practice on Monday after recovering from COVID.
  • RB Eno Benjamin has the early lead as the RB2 in this offense and continues to impress.
  • While unlikely, WR Marquise Brown’s speeding ticket could lead to a suspension from the NFL.
  • WR Rondale Moore is practicing as an inside and outside receiver.
  • LB Isaiah Simmons will take snaps at safety in his new star-backer positions.

Atlanta Falcons | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • The quarterback competition is ongoing, but Marcus Mariota is ahead, and all expectations have him starting the season over rookie Desmond Ridder.
  • RB Cordarrelle Patterson will continue to be a star of the offense, though Tyler Allgeier and Damien Williams are expected to work in the rotation.
  • WR Drake London is as advertised and solidifying himself as the team’s WR1.
  • TE Kyle Pitts has continued his ascension as the team’s primary target, lining up exclusively in the slot or out wide. The hype appears real.
  • TE/QB Feleipe Franks is an intriguing name to monitor in the preseason.

Baltimore Ravens | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Lamar Jackson has gained noticeable muscle, reportedly now weighing 220 when he'd been 205-208. He is practicing and looks improved on the perimeter and deep passing.
  • RB J.K. Dobbins is rehabbing from his ACL tear and is likely to return to practice soon.
  • RB Gus Edwards is behind Dobbins in his rehab and is questionable for Week 1.
  • WR Rashod Bateman is the unquestioned WR1 and is building chemistry with Jackson.
  • WR Devin Duvernay and WR James Proche are behind Bateman and battling for WR2 duties.
  • TE Mark Andrews should remain Jackson’s most-targeted player, especially with the lack of wide receiver depth.

Buffalo Bills | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • The main story is how QB Josh Allen and the offense perform under new coordinator and play-caller Ken Dorsey.
  • At RB, Devin Singletary should see a heavy workload with rookie James Cook mixed in on passing downs and Zack Moss in short-yardage situations.
  • WR Gabriel Davis impressed in the first week and seems poised for a breakout season, while Isaiah McKenzie is making a strong case to handle slot duties.
  • At TE, Dawson Knox is playing for a new contract while O.J. Howard gives the team more versatility to run 2-TE sets.
  • On defense, OLB Von Miller boosts the pass rush, but rookie CB Kaiir Elam’s struggles are a concern.

Carolina Panthers | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • The battle for the starting quarterback should go through the second preseason game, but Baker Mayfield has a slight lead right now.
  • RB Christian McCaffrey is healthy but will be handled carefully in the preseason.
  • All three wide receivers, D.J. Moore, Robbie Anderson, and Terrace Marshall, have played well with both quarterbacks.
  • There will be a rotation at tight end, but none will likely be of value for fantasy purposes.
  • The defense is young but will have an excellent starting secondary if everyone can get healthy.

Chicago Bears | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Justin Fields is the clearcut starter and is expected to run much more than he did as a rookie.
  • RB David Montgomery may not be a workhorse this year as the new staff looks to be implementing a committee approach.
  • WRs Darnell Mooney and Velus Jones are separating from the pack to be the team’s Week 1 starters.
  • TE Cole Kmet has impressed thus far, setting the stage for a breakout in Year 3.
  • Despite the offseason losses, the defense has been playing well and should be the team’s biggest strength.
  • LB Roquan Smith and OL Teven Jenkins have not practiced, with Smith wanting a new contract and Jenkins’ holdout being more ambiguous

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Cincinnati Bengals | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Joe Burrow is likely still a couple of weeks away from practicing as he recovers from an appendectomy that may have come with some complications.
  • RB Joe Mixon excelled as a runner and receiver, but his pass protection remains an issue and could keep him off the field on third downs.
  • RB Samaje Perine remains the backup, though it is expected that Chris Evans will push for that role if he shows more consistency in pass protection.
  • WR Ja’Marr Chase has been dominant and looks poised for a monster season.
  • TE Hayden Hurst plays fast and fluid. He has been tabbed as a likely upgrade over C.J. Uzomah and could put up 600 or 700 receiving yards this season.

Cleveland Browns | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report


Dallas Cowboys | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • Running back Ezekiel Elliott is healthy, and Jerry Jones has mandated he remains the offensive focal point.
  • Tony Pollard is attending running back and wide receiver meetings as the coaches look to expand his role without eating into Elliott’s carries.
  • CeeDee Lamb has seamlessly stepped into the No. 1 receiver role.
  • Rookie WR Jalen Tolbert is being counted on as a starter, as Michael Gallup is recovering from an ACL injury and James Washington is expected to be out 6-10 weeks with a foot injury.
  • Tight end Dalton Schultz is undeniably one of Dak Prescott’s favorite targets and should build off last year’s breakout season.

Denver Broncos | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • New quarterback Russell Wilson has looked just as strong, poised, and efficient as the Broncos hoped.
  • By all accounts, second-year back Javonte Williams is laying claim to the lead role in the backfield.
  • The team lost third wide receiver, Tim Patrick, to a torn ACL and is counting even more on Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy to turn around after a rough 2021.
  • Rookie Greg Dulcich is creeping into the tight end picture even more with the big-bodied Patrick out of commission.

Detroit Lions | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Jared Goff is off to a strong first week of camp, showing good command of the offense and confidence in throwing deep.
  • WR D.J. Chark has developed a good rapport with Goff and is fully healthy from his season-ending broken ankle last September.
  • RB DAndre Swift is drawing good reviews, and head coach Dan Campbell called him one of the team’s most explosive players.
  • First-round pick WR Jameson Williams’ return from torn ACL is undetermined, and the team isn’t saying much about his timeline.

Green Bay Packers | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report


Houston Texans | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • Quarterback Davis Mills has established himself as a leader with a strong offseason. This is his team for at least 2022.
  • RB Marlon Mack looked fast, made some explosive runs, and appears to be the favorite to open the season as the starter.
  • RB Dameon Pierce is the most consistent so far, pushing Mack for the lead role, though some form of a committee is the most likely outcome.
  • WR Nico Collins was the biggest offensive standout as he established himself as the clear starter opposite Brandin Cooks.
  • With slot rookie WR John Metchie out for the year, a slimmed-down TE Brevin Jordan may benefit the most lining up as the flex or hybrid wide receiver/tight end in two-tight end sets.

Indianapolis Colts | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Matt Ryan has set a different tone for this team, from meeting rooms to the practice field.
  • RB Nyheim Hines is being lined up all over the field, and the Colts are trying to find ways to get him the football.
  • Rookie TE Andrew Ogletree has been a star of camp, and he’s climbing the depth chart.
  • CB Stephon Gilmore has shown people all camp that he’s still at the top of his game.
  • WR Parris Campbell has the inside track on the WR2 job.

Jacksonville Jaguars | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Trevor Lawrence looks accurate in practice and appears ready to take the next step.
  • RB Travis Etienne looks like the best weapon on the Jaguars.
  • WR Christian Kirk is getting the most targets.
  • WR Laviska Shenault was relegated to kick return duties.
  • TE Evan Engram still seems to be struggling with drops.
  • The young pass-rushers could make the defense competitive.

Kansas City Chiefs | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report


Las Vegas Raiders | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • Quarterback Derek Carr is having a fantastic camp and quickly picked up the new offensive scheme.
  • Running back Josh Jacobs showed up in great shape and, so far, is more involved as a receiver than in past years.
  • However, Jacobs started and played extensively in the preseason opener, raising speculation the Raiders are heading to a committee.
  • Rookie running back Zamir White is coming on strong after missing a couple of practices, and he could steal touches from Jacobs.

Los Angeles Chargers | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Justin Herbert and the Chargers offense struggled in the first days of camp but have taken steps forward as camp has progressed, with head coach Brandon Staley “excited about where they’re at.”
  • RB Austin Ekeler is the clear starter, while rookie Isaiah Spiller competes with Larry Rountree and Joshua Kelley for the second spot
  • Safety Derwin James remains a hold-in by reporting to training camp but not practicing while working out a contract extension.
  • WRs Keenan Allen and Mike Williams lead the passing offense, with Josh Palmer developing from year one to year two.

Los Angeles Rams | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • Probably the biggest story of camp is the arm health of Matthew Stafford, who is dealing with elbow soreness.
  • Stafford was to be sidelined for about a week to manage the issue, but he resumed throwing a couple of days later.
  • RBs Cam Akers and Darrell Henderson worked in a rotation this week as the top two backs in the offense.
  • Allen Robinson is drawing rave reviews through training camp and will offer another weapon opposite Cooper Kupp.
  • There is mutual interest in Odell Beckham returning to the Rams, but no deal is imminent.

Miami Dolphins | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Tua Tagovailoa appears more confident and in command of the offense.
  • For now, RB Chase Edmonds has a strong hold on the starting RB position.
  • WRs Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle have been making a lot of plays on deep balls.
  • TE Mike Gesicki is adjusting to a new in-line role that could require more blocking.
  • The defensive pass-rush is dominating scrimmages, particularly Jaelan Phillips.
  • FS Jevon Holland looks like he could be a turnover machine in 2022.

Minnesota Vikings | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Kirk Cousins is comfortable in the offense, dominating and carving up the defense since Day 1.
  • RB Dalvin Cook looks faster, and the new-look offense will use him more creatively.
  • WR K.J. Osborn solidified his spot as the third receiver and looks like a significant part of the offense.
  • TE Irv Smith Jr. impressed before suffering injury and should return by Week 1.
  • Fantasy managers can confidently draft WR Justin Jefferson as their No. 1 receiver, with the offense shifting to a more pass-first attack.

New England Patriots | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • Second-year QB Mac Jones was greeted by wildly mixed reviews at camp, both impressing and concerning onlookers.
  • RBs Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson look poised to pace the backfield again.
  • Without any dynamic wide receivers on the outside, Jakobi Meyers is still the most consistent and targeted of the group.
  • WR DeVante Parker was added to compete for the No. 1 role, but his camp participation dwindled after a hot minicamp.
  • The tight ends continue to wow media in practices; the only obstacle now is getting the ball to them in creative ways.

New Orleans Saints | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Jameis Winston is finally established as the starter and looks focused and efficient early in camp.
  • RB Alvin Kamara’s legal issues are tricky, but it looks like any legal action will be delayed until well into the season.
  • Behind Kamara, veteran RB Mark Ingram looks poised to hold off Tony Jones as the clear-cut No. 2.
  • Star WR Michael Thomas returned to team drills and looks good. He remains the linchpin of the Saints’ air attack.
  • WR Marquez Callaway likely still holds the advantage as the team’s No. 5 (or possibly No. 4) receiver.
  • The team signed former Jets TE Chris Herndon to push for receiving snaps behind Adam Trautman.

New York Giants | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Daniel Jones has been inconsistent, which shouldn’t come as a surprise but casts a pall on those expecting Daboll to work miracles.
  • RB Saquon Barkley is healthy and looks set for a workhorse role.
  • WR Kenny Golladay got off to a slow start in camp but insists he’s healthy and ready to bounce back.
  • After a disappointing rookie season, WR Kadarius Toney looks comfortable in the new offense.
  • Rookie TE Daniel Bellinger is staking an early claim on the starting role.

New York Jets | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report


Philadelphia Eagles | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Jalen Hurts is improving, but not dramatically.
  • RB Miles Sanders has the coaches’ support, but his performance in camp has been uneven.
  • Newly acquired star WR A.J. Brown has immediately established himself as the best playmaker on the team.
  • DeVonta Smith will be more of a complementary player this season.
  • Dallas Goedert’s role as the No. 2 target looks assured.

Pittsburgh Steelers | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Mitch Trubisky is working as the first-team quarterback in camp and looks like the Week 1 starter. He's been uneven.
  • RB Najee Harris is nursing a minor injury but will be the workhorse again this season.
  • WR Chase Claypool is working both outside and in the slot.
  • WR Diontae Johnson signed a contract extension and will continue to be the team’s WR1.
  • TE Pat Freiermuth is looking to have more production in between the 20s after excelling in the red zone last year.

San Francisco 49ers | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • According to head coach Kyle Shanahan, WR Brandon Aiyuk had a great offseason and is “killing guys right now.” Quite a contrast to a year ago.
  • QB Trey Lance has officially been named the starter for the 49ers, with Jimmy Garoppolo receiving permission to seek a trade.
  • RB Elijah Mitchell is slotted in as the starting running back, with Jeff Wilson, Tyrion Davis-Price, and Trey Sermon competing for the RB2 spot.
  • WR Deebo Samuel signed a three-year contract extension worth up to 73.5 million dollars, with the 49ers ending an offseason of uncertainty surrounding the receiver.

Seattle Seahawks | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Geno Smith has the early lead for the starting role, but Drew Lock is pushing hard.
  • RB Rashaad Penny has a firm grasp on the No. 1 spot, although rookie Ken Walker has looked good, too.
  • WR DK Metcalf signed a massive contract extension and looks dominant in early padded practices.
  • Veteran receiver Tyler Lockett is having a quiet camp but is healthy and entrenched in his role.
  • TE Noah Fant is the No. 1, but he hasn’t necessarily stood out in a crowded TE room.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • RB Leonard Fournette arrived at camp in game shape and should remain the three-down featured back.
  • Rookie RB Rachaad White is drawing praise from coaches as well.
  • WR Julio Jones looks like the same player he was in the past and will force opposing defenses to play zone coverage.
  • Jones’ addition gives Russell Gage a lot of favorable matchup advantages.
  • Long-time QB coach Clyde Christensen says Tom Brady’s arm is better than he’s ever seen it.
  • Cam Brate may begin the season as the starting tight end, but Cade Otton is coming on strong; the Bucs believe they got a late-round steal as a two-way player.

Tennessee Titans | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Ryan Tannehill remained sharp in Year 2 of the offense, and WR Robert Woods has emerged as his favorite target.
  • QB Logan Woodside is operating as the backup and would be first off the bench as a Tannehill replacement.
  • RB Derrick Henry remains the offense's focal point and looks healthy when making cuts on his previously injured foot.
  • WR Treylon Burks' conditioning concerns have been put to rest, as he's been full-go since Day 1. But he's got a lot to learn.
  • Rookies TE Chigoziem Okonkwo, WR Kyle Philips, and WR Reggie Roberson could all make an impact, and Philips is working in with the first-team offense

Washington Commanders | Depth Chart | Footballguys Full Camp Report

  • QB Carson Wentz has been disappointing with too many inaccurate passes.
  • WR Terry McLaurin is having a quietly productive camp and is the No. 1 offensive option.
  • Rookie WR Jahan Dotson is making a solid case for start opposite Terry McLaurin.
  • RB Antonio Gibson is having an up-and-down start to the preseason.
  • A litany of injuries leaves the TE room barren.

And that's that for this week. Let me know if you found this type of thing useful by shooting an email to bryant@footballguys.com. And keep up with me on Twitter by clicking the follow button below.

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