Preseason Rotation , Teams Camp Goals , Early Notes ...

[Kramer]

Hall of Fame Game (Canton, Ohio)

SUNDAY'S GAME 8/3/08

Indianapolis Colts - QB Rotation: Peyton Manning, Jim Sorgi, Josh Betts, Adam Tafarlis.

Colts coach Tony Dungy has a history of taking it easy with his veteran players in preseason.

Indianapolis
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th

SITE: Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
The Colts had very little offseason turnover, which means there weren't expected to be many exciting developments coming out of Terre Haute. Then, it was announced that Peyton Manning would miss 4-6 weeks following surgery to remove a ruptured bursa sac in his left knee, and the intrigue commenced.

Pressure will be on backup Jim Sorgi to play well in the event that Manning doesn't return in the expected recovery time. Also, the injury status of recovering wideout Marvin Harrison (knee) and defensive end Dwight Freeney (foot) will be worth monitoring. At the moment, it appears that Harrison will see the field more than will Freeney during camp.


Similarly worth noting will be the return of running back Dominic Rhodes (Raiders) after one disappointing year in Oakland. Rhodes' re-emergence, and the addition of draft pick Mike Hart (Michigan), could make it difficult for Kenton Keith to make the roster behind Joseph Addai. Ron Meeks' defense, which allowed the fewest points in the league a year ago, returns virtually intact. Avoiding further injury will be the biggest directive for this team on both sides of the football.

Washington Redskins - QB Rotation: Jason Campbell, Todd Collins, rookie Colt Brennan, rookie Sam Hollenbach.
Jim Zorn is the new head coach. The former Seahawks quarterbacks coach has no head-coaching experience.

Greg Blache is the new defensive coordinator, while Sherman Smith is offensive coordinator after OC Al Saunders left. Smith previously served as assistant head coach-running backs with the Tennessee Titans for 13 seasons.


Washington
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 20th, Veterans July 20th

SITE: Redskins Park, Ashburn, VA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
The Redskins don't have much time to perfect new head coach/offensive mastermind Jim Zorn's west coast scheme, so the installation of the attack figures to be the primary focus in Washington camp.


Quarterback Jason Campbell needs to show he can run the offense with proficiency, and a wideout group including holdovers Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle El and rookies Devin Thomas (Michigan State) and Malcolm Kelly (Oklahoma) must progress quickly as well. There is less work to do on a defense that suffered very little offseason turnover, especially considering the team is expected to embrace the same principles under coordinator Greg Blache that it did under his former boss, the departed Gregg Williams.


Still, Blache would be wise to emphasize rushing the passer and making plays in the secondary, two characteristics that often went begging for Washington a season ago. One of the most intriguing camp battles will come at punter, where incumbent Derrick Frost tries to hold off sixth-round draft choice Durant Brooks (Georgia Tech).


Atlanta Falcons - QB Rotation: Chris Redman, Joey Harrington, Matt Ryan, D.J. Shockley.

Rookie QB Matt Ryan (BC) was grabbed with the No. 3 overall pick.

The new head coach is Mike Smith, with Mike Mularkey taking over as offensive coordinator. Smith was the defensive coordinator of the Jaguars and faces his old team here.

THURSDAY'S GAMES 8/7/08

New Orleans Saints - QB Rotation: Drew Brees, Mark Brunell, Tyler Palko.

Secondary concerns: They hope cornerback Mike McKenzie, who tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in the second-to-last game, is recovered.

New Orleans
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 23rd, Veterans July 23rd

SITE: Millsaps College, Jackson, MS/Saints Practice Facility, Metairie, LA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

The Saints were horrible against the pass last season, and head coach Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs need to spend July and August identifying a reliable starting cornerback tandem. Free agent pick- ups Randall Gay (Patriots), Jerametrius Butler (Bills), and Aaron Glenn (Jaguars), and rookie Tracy Porter (Indiana) will be among those with a chance to win jobs.


A below-average pass rush was bolstered via the addition of ex- Jaguar Bobby McCray, and first-round draft choice Sedrick Ellis (USC) will be counted on to show progress in the run-stopping game. There isn't much new to speak of on offense for New Orleans, though Payton needs to see progress from Reggie Bush and suitable health from Deuce McAllister in order to take some pressure off of the passing game.
Speaking of which, New Orleans must locate a reliable complement to No. 1 wideout Marques Colston, who bore too much of the receiving load last year.

Arizona Cardinals - QB Rotation: Matt Leinart, Kurt Warner, Brian St. Pierre, rookie Anthony Morelli.

Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt is handing off most of the offensive play-calling duties for the upcoming season to coordinator Todd Haley.

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
The player to watch in Cardinals camp is clearly quarterback Matt Leinart, whom the organization is hoping will turn the corner and play well enough to seize the full-time job from Kurt Warner.


If Leinart struggles, head coach Ken Whisenhunt could have a controversial decision on his hands. Whoever plays quarterback needs more help from Edgerrin James and a ground game that ranked 29th in the NFL a year ago.
If Arizona fails to produce in the run game during the preseason, count it as an ominous sign. Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast needs to locate a replacement for the departed Calvin Pace (Jets) at outside linebacker, and must determine if first-round draft choice and cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State) is ready to play a significant role in the secondary.




NY Giants - QB Rotation: Eli Manning, David Carr, Anthony Wright, rookie Andre Woodson.

N.Y. Giants
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: University at Albany, Albany, NY

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

The soap opera should begin immediately for the defending Super Bowl champs. Will Plaxico Burress, who is seeking a new contract, show up on time for camp?

Will the disgruntled Jeremy Shockey upset team chemistry?
How will Tom Coughlin handle such potential obstacles, should they arise? Coughlin also has to sort out a crowded wide receiver picture, needs to determine whether David Carr (Panthers) or Anthony Wright is his backup to QB Eli Manning, and must replace four starters including retired end Michael Strahan on defense.


But the most formidable task for this coaching staff will be getting the club to avoid the natural complacency that comes with being a defending Super Bowl winner. Neither of New York's previous two world champions reached the playoffs in the following season, a fact of which the Giants' fan base is acutely aware.

Detroit Lions - QB Rotation: Jon Kitna, Drew Stanton, Dan Orlovsky.

Joe Barry has been promoted to defensive coordinator, while Jim Colletto is the new offensive coordinator.

Detroit
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th

SITE: Detroit Lions Training Facility, Allen Park, MI

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

Offensive coordinator Mike Martz and his pass-happy scheme, which produced just 10 wins in two years, are gone.
In are Jim Colletto (promoted from o-line coach) and what predicts to be a more balanced system, albeit one that lacks a proven running back. Rookie Kevin Smith (Central Florida) and 2007 disappointment Tatum Bell will be among those vying for carries. Rookie tackle Gosder Cherilus (Boston College) will be counted on to help prop up a spotty offensive line.
The defense underwent a great deal of offseason turnover, which is being billed as a good thing given the fact that the Lions finished dead last in NFL scoring defense a year ago.


There isn't much star power on that side of the ball, but head coach Rod Marinell did bring in some of his ex-Buccaneers charges - tackle Chuck Darby and defensive backs Brian Kelly, Dwight Smith, and Kalvin Pearson - to help enhance the Tampa-2 scheme. One of the key directives for Marinelli and coordinator Joe Barry will be locating a pass rusher from a decidedly nondescript group

Baltimore Ravens - QB Rotation: Kyle Boller, Troy Smith, rookie Joe Flacco.

John Harbaugh is the new head coach, the former Philadelphia Eagles secondary coach. Harbaugh has never been a head coach during his 24 seasons.
Baltimore
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 21st, Veterans July 23rd

SITE: McDaniel College, Westminster, MD

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


All eyes will be on new head coach John Harbaugh, whose first camp is supposed to be markedly tougher than Brian Billick's allegedly soft show. Not that setting the tone of the camp will be Harbaugh's biggest responsibility.
The former Eagles special teams coach, along with new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, must identify a starting quarterback from a group that includes Kyle Boller, Troy Smith, and rookie Joe Flacco. Smith would appear to have the edge as camp begins.

Elsewhere in the backfield, the team needs to find a running back to spell Willis McGahee, and second-round draft choice Ray Rice (Rutgers) would seem to have the edge there.


Following the retirement of Jonathan Ogden, second-year-pro Jared Gaither must prove he has the goods to start at left tackle. There won't be many personnel changes on defense, especially since coordinator Rex Ryan was retained from Billick's staff. Ryan's most important job will be identifying backups to Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle at cornerback - the team's lack of depth at the position was a major issue during Baltimore's 5-11 season of 2007.


New England Patriots - QB Rotation: Tom Brady, Matt Cassel, Matt Gutierrez, rookie Kevin O'Connell.
New England
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th
SITE: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


New England made an offseason effort to get younger defensively, excising the likes of linebackers Junior Seau and Rosevelt Colvin along with defensive back Eugene Wilson, and also watching corners Asante Samuel (Eagles) and Randall Gay (Saints) escape via free agency.

Linebacker Victor Hobson (Jets), cornerback Fernando Bryant (Lions), and rookie corner Terrence Wheatley (Colorado) are among the new Pats defenders the team is hoping to see a spark from early-on.

The biggest change on the record-setting offense is at the No. 3 receiver slot, where Donte' Stallworth (Browns) is out and Jabar Gaffney and Chad Jackson will be among those seeking a more expanded role. Otherwise, it has been eerily quiet in Foxboro, which is just the way that Belichick guy prefers it.


NY Jets - QB Rotation: Chad Pennington, Kellen Clemens, Brett Ratliff, rookie Erik Ainge.

The offense is in the third year of offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer's high-tech scheme that features an array of shifts and motions.
N.Y. Jets
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 16th, Veterans July 23rd

SITE: Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

The Jets have intriguing position battles in several areas of the team, but all others will be overshadowed by the quarterback duel between Chad Pennington and Kellen Clemens.
The younger, healthier Clemens seems likely to get the job unless he plays terribly during the summer.


The team must also find the right mix at running back, where holdovers Thomas Jones and Leon Washington will fight for carries with newcomers Jesse Chatman (Dolphins) and Musa Smith (Ravens). The o-line must integrate new faces Alan Faneca and Damien Woody, while Dustin Keller (Purdue) and Bubba Franks (Packers) are now part of the equation at tight end. All of that said, this team's chances in 2008 could very well hinge on how well the defense comes together early.


The front seven will have a radically different look with Kris Jenkins (Panthers) at nose tackle and Calvin Pace (Cardinals) and Vernon Gholston (Ohio State) coming off the edge at outside linebacker. The Jets were 29th in the league against the run last year, and the fresh faces are expected to help improve upon that standing.


Cleveland Browns - QB Rotation: Derek Anderson, Brady Quinn, Ken Dorsey.

The change Browns have made a change in defensive coordinators from Todd Grantham to Mel Tucker.
Cleveland
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 23rd, Veterans July 23rd

SITE: Cleveland Browns Training Facility, Berea, OH

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


The Browns possess one of the most exciting young offenses in the league, but Romeo Crennel and his staff know that if they don't identify the right defensive mix during training camp, those playoff hopes could go up in flames.
Newly-acquired d-tackles Corey Williams (Packers) and Shaun Rogers (Lions) must prove they're worth the steep price the franchise paid for them, and it is hoped that their presence will help free up the sub-standard pass rush of a year ago.


Cleveland is extremely thin at corner behind No. 1 CB Eric Wright, and needs veteran newcomers like Jereme Perry (Dolphins) and Terry Cousin (Jaguars) to quell the fears of Crennel and new coordinator Mel Tucker. The offense looks to be in good shape, especially following the addition of Donte' Stallworth (Patriots) to the receiving corps. Derek Anderson appears set as the starting QB, but the heat could get turned up at camp if he struggles and Brady Quinn performs well.


K.C. Chiefs - QB Rotation: Brodie Croyle, Tyler Thigpen, Damon Huard.

Coach Herm Edwards said that Brodie Croyle's job is safe and that he will enter training camp as the starter. "It's his team now," Edwards said.

Last year's starter Damon Huard is now the No. 3 quarterback, behind second-year passer Tyler Thigpen.
Kansas City
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th

SITE: University of Wisconsin-River Falls, River Falls, WI

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

The Chiefs experienced roster turnover in the offseason, and will need to develop several key personnel areas during camp in order to have a fighting chance in 2008.

Kansas City's woeful offensive line of 2007 has been upgraded thanks to first-round draft choice Branden Albert (Virginia), who must prove capable of making an immediate impact. The backfield appears set with quarterback Brodie Croyle and healing running back Larry Johnson (foot), but Herm Edwards and new offensive coordinator Chan Gailey need to identify primary backups at both positions.


The defense lacks proven playmakers following the trade of Jared Allen to Minnesota, but rookies Glenn Dorsey (DT), Brandon Flowers (CB) and DaJuan Morgan (S) are being counted on to bring something to the table. The Chiefs finished 28th in the NFL against the pass last year, so the work of the pass rush and secondary will be particularly telling.

On special teams, journeyman Nick Novak and rookie Connor Barth (North Carolina) are attempting to win the kicking job, while B.J. Sams (Ravens) looks to establish himself as the new return specialist

Chicago Bears - QB Rotation: Rex Grossman, Kyle Orton, Caleb Hanie.

Running back depth a concern after cutting loose RB Cedric Benson.
Chicago
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 23rd, Veterans July 23rd

SITE: Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, IL

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


You'll find few offensive coordinators around the league under as much pressure as the Bears' Ron Turner during the months of July and August.
Turner must identify either Rex Grossman or Kyle Orton as his starting quarterback, must extract a running back rotation from a group that includes newcomers Kevin Jones (Lions) and rookie Matt Forte (Tulane) along with holdovers Adrian Peterson and Garrett Wolfe, and must figure out the makeup of a thin-on-paper receiving corps headlined by Devin Hester, rookie Earl Bennett (Vanderbilt) and castoffs Brandon Lloyd (Redskins) and Marty Booker (Dolphins).


Chicago has fewer worries on defense, but Lovie Smith and coordinator Bob Babich need to get that group's attention. One year after carrying the Bears to the Super Bowl, the unit was 24th against the run and 27th versus the pass last year.


FRIDAY'S GAMES 8/8/08

Philadelphia Eagles - QB Rotation: Donovan McNabb, A.J. Feeley, Kevin Kolb.
Philadelphia
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 21st, Veterans July 24th

SITE: Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


The Eagles' most significant offseason changes were on defense, where Jevon Kease and Takeo Spikes were excised and new blood, including pass rusher Chris Clemons and cornerback Asante Samuel, was brought aboard.
Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson needs to identify the right nucleus during camp, particularly among an inexperienced group of linebackers. The situation at cornerback, where Samuel is the No. 1 corner and former Pro Bowler Lito Sheppard has been relegated to backup duties, bears watching as well.


On offense, the Birds will be looking for Donovan McNabb to be sharper one year further removed from knee surgery, and will monitor the brittle QB's recent bout with shoulder tendinitis as well.


Philly's biggest new offensive weapons include running back Lorenzo Booker (Dolphins) and rookie wideout DeSean Jackson (Cal), and head coach Andy Reid needs both to pick up the offense quickly.
Jackson also needs to show he can fill the void on punt returns, where the team has long been deficient.


Pittsburgh Steelers - QB Rotation: Ben Roethlisberger, Charlie Batch, Jared Zabransky, rookie Dennis Dixon.
Pittsburgh
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 27th, Veterans July 27th

SITE: Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, PA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


Most of the public attention in Steelers camp will be paid to the offense.
First-round draft pick Rashard Mendenhall (Illinois) is being counted on to provide a frequent complement to running back Willie Parker, who returns after missing the end of last season with a leg injury.

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and wideout Hines Ward had a public offseason spat centering on the team's lack of height at receiver, and after the team granted Roethlisberger's wish by drafting the 6-4 Limas Sweed (Texas) in the second round, it will be interesting to see how the QB and his longtime No. 1 receiver get along.


The play of an offensive line that lost its best player, Alan Faneca (Jets), will also bear watching. Defensively, an aging defense needs to see a few youngsters seize key roles. Second-year linebackers Lawrence Timmons and LaMarr Woodley, Tomlin's first two draft picks, are among those who must establish themselves early in camp.

Seattle Seahawks - QB Rotation: Matt Hasselbeck, Seneca Wallace, Charlie Frye, Dalton Bell.

With RB Shaun Alexander gone, there's a backfield battle between RBs Julius Jones, T.J. Duckett and rookie Justin Forsett.

WR concerns: WR Deion Branch is six months into what is typically a nine-month rehabilitation following reconstructive knee surgery. He likely will not be ready for the season opener.
Seattle
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 22nd, Veterans July 24th

SITE: Seahawks Training Facility, Renton, WA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

Mike Holmgren's final training camp as head coach of the Seahawks (we think) should include a slight offensive transition. Seattle morphed into a pass-first team when it became clear that Shaun Alexander had lost a step last season.


With Alexander gone and fresher blood like Julius Jones (Cowboys) and T.J. Duckett (Redskins) now in Seattle, the attack should feature a bit more balance. The biggest story on defense should be the work of the front four, which will feature a couple of new faces in first-round draft choice Lawrence Jackson (USC) and ex-Bills and Colts starter Larry Tripplett. Following kicker Josh Brown's defection to the rival Rams, journeyman Olindo Mare (Saints) and rookie Brandon Coutu (Georgia) will duke it out for placement duties.


Minnesota Vikings - QB Rotation: Tarvaris Jackson, Gus Frerotte, John David Booty, Brooks Bollinger.
Minnesota
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


There is big hope in Minnesota that the light has come on for third-year quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, and that the presence of an expensive new weapon in wideout Bernard Berrian (Bears) will help the offense realize its potential.
If Jackson and the attack struggles early in the preseason, the natives are going to get pretty restless (Gus Frerotte and John David Booty are the backup quarterbacks, by the way).


A defense that ranked dead last in the NFL against the pass last year has added a couple of key pieces to help improve upon that standing. Pro Bowl defensive end Jared Allen needs to prove he was worth the sizeable investment the team made to secure his services from the Chiefs, and ex-Bengals safety Madieu Williams must make some plays and show consistent cover ability on the back end.

San Fran 49ers - QB Rotation: Alex Smith, Shaun Hill, J.T. O'Sullivan, Drew Olsen.

Mike Martz is the new offensive coordinator.
San Francisco
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th

SITE: San Francisco 49ers Complex, Santa Clara, CA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


One of the league's most notable quarterback controversies will unfold in Santa Clara, where former No. 1 Draft pick Alex Smith battles Shaun Hill and J.T. O'Sullivan for signal-caller duties.
New offensive coordinator Mike Martz will be the main decision-maker on that count, and will also be responsible for resuscitating the NFL's worst offense of a year ago.


Newcomers Bryant Johnson (Cardinals) and Isaac Bruce (Rams) will look to win a coveted spot in the Niners' pass-heavy attack. The defense will greatly resemble last year's unit, though head coach Mike Nolan and coordinator Greg Manusky will be expecting to see results from front-four reinforcements Justin Smith (Bengals) and rookie Kentwan Balmer (North Carolina


Oakland Raiders - QB Rotation: JaMarcus Russell, Andrew Walter, Marques Tuiasosopo, rookie Sam Keller.

Keller and Tuiasosopo are newcomers to the system.

Offensive line concerns: New left tackle Kwame Harris is still learning the new blocking scheme; Returning right tackle Cornell Green struggled to contain edge rusher Derrick Burgess in practice, while second-year tackle Mario Henderson remains a work in progress.

Oakland
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th

SITE: Napa Valley Marriott, Napa Valley, CA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

there should be some interesting things happening offensively, where JaMarcus Russell begins his first year as a starter and running back Darren McFadden (Arkansas) and wideout Javon Walker (Broncos) wear Raiders uniforms for the first time.

Also, the development of an oft- maligned o-line could tell the tale for this attack.
On defense, where Rob Ryan returns as the coordinator despite Kiffin's attempts to axe him, new faces such as cornerback DeAngelo Hall (Falcons), Gibril Wilson (Giants), and Greg Spires (Buccaneers) need to help prop up a unit that ranked 26th in NFL scoring defense a year ago.



SATURDAY'S GAMES 8/9/08

Buffalo Bills - QB Rotation: Trent Edwards, J.P. Losman, Gilbran Hamdan, Matt Baker.
Buffalo
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: St. John Fisher College, Pittsford, NY

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


Following safety Donte Whitner's eye-popping guarantee that the Bills would reach the playoffs for the first time since 1999, look for Buffalo to have plenty of spring in its step in Pittsford.


The Bills were in the playoff chase into December last year, likely prompting Whitner's feelings, though the safety wasn't up-close-and-personal with an offense that ranked 25th in NFL rushing offense and 29th in passing offense.
Quarterback Trent Edwards needs to prove he's truly ready to lead a pro attack at the age of 24, and wideout James Hardy (Indiana), the only notable addition to the offense in the offseason, needs to mature quickly in order to help him.


Also, let's not forget that this will be an important camp for a brand-new coordinator, Turk Schonert. Defensively, the Bills have added three potential starters in tackle Marcus Stroud (Jaguars), linebacker Kawika Mitchell (Giants), and rookie cornerback Leodis McKelvin (Troy). Given the shaky state of the offense, head coach Dick Jauron must continue to stress defense and special teams throughout the summer.

Washington Redskins - QB Rotation: Jason Campbell, Todd Collins, rookie Colt Brennan, rookie Sam Hollenbach.

This is the second game for the Redskins, after playing in the Hall of Fame Game (8/3).

Jim Zorn is the new head coach.

Greg Blache is the new defensive coordinator, while Sherman Smith is offensive coordinator after OC Al Saunders left. Smith previously served as assistant head coach-running backs with the Tennessee Titans for 13 seasons


Atlanta
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Atlanta Falcons Training Facility, Flowery Branch, GA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


The first training camp of the Mike Smith era is likely to include a great deal of focus on revamping the league's 29th-ranked scoring defense of a year ago.

Smith, the former Jaguars defensive coordinator, needs to locate a reliable group from a roster now without former staples DeAngelo Hall (Raiders) and Rod Coleman (released).

That said, most Falcons fans will be paying far greater attention to what goes on offensively, as rookie quarterback Matt Ryan (Boston College) attempts to beat out holdovers Chris Redman and Joey Harrington for the starting job.

Elsewhere in the backfield, free agent pickup Michael Turner (Chargers) will begin his first year as an NFL starter, and will be trying to find any holes paved by one of the least- regarded offensive lines in the league. Kicker Jason Elam, who was lured to Atlanta after 15 seasons with the Broncos, is one of the Falcons' most notable new faces.



Jacksonville Jaguars - QB Rotation: David Garrard, Cleo Lemon, Todd Bauman.

Jacksonville has a new defensive coordinator in Gregg Williams, who was with the Redskins last fall under Joe Gibbs.

Jacksonville
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, FL

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


The Jaguars are viewed by many as a team with Super Bowl- level talent, but their would-be ascendancy will be contingent on a couple of key personnel areas coming together.

The first is at wide receiver, where Jacksonville has attempted to shut the revolving door by bringing in Jerry Porter (Raiders) and Troy Williamson (Vikings) to help push holdovers Reggie Williams, Dennis Northcutt, and Matt Jones.

The other area of concern for Jacksonville is along the defensive line, which will have a new look following the trade of former Pro Bowl tackle Marcus Stroud (Bills) and the selection of pass rushers Derrick Harvey (Florida) and Quentin Groves (Auburn) with the team's first two selections of the April Draft. In the secondary, the Jags lost Sammy Knight (Giants) to free agency and need free agent additions Drayton Florence (Chargers) and Pierson Prioleau (Redskins) to get their feet on the ground early.

The man guiding the defense is ex-Washington mastermind Gregg Williams, who was hired after former coordinator Mike Smith took the head job with Atlanta.


Indianapolis Colts - QB Rotation: Peyton Manning, Jim Sorgi, Josh Betts, Adam Tafarlis.

This is the second game for the Colts, after playing in the Hall of Fame Game (8/3).

Carolina Panthers - QB Rotation: Jake Delhomme, Matt Moore, Brett Basanez.
Carolina
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th SITE: Wofford College, Spartanburg, SC

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

With Brett Favre's name being thrown around regularly in relation to the Panthers, the pressure on Jake Delhomme and his surgically- repaired right elbow will become even greater as the team descends upon Spartanburg.
If Delhomme breaks down, and Carolina fails to secure Favre's services, the Panthers' 2008 season could rest in the inexperienced hands of Brett Basanez or Matt Moore.
Whoever plays quarterback will have to get in lock-step with a couple of new receiving options - D.J. Hackett (Seahawks) and prodigal son Muhsin Muhammad (Bears) - while simultaneously learning to work behind a revamped o-line.


Fans might see more than was initially expected from first-round draft choice and rookie running back Jonathan Stewart (Oregon), who is rehabbing from offseason toe surgery but could be a full-go for camp. The biggest story on defense is up front, where newcomers Tyler Brayton (Raiders), Ian Scott (Eagles), and Darwin Walker (Bears) are all attempting to win jobs in the wake of Kris Jenkins' trade to the Jets.

Tampa Bay Bucs - QB Rotation: Jeff Garcia, Luke McCown, Brian Griese, Chris Simms. Tampa Bay
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex, Lake Buena Vista, FL

CAMP OBJECTIVES:

Assuming Brett Favre doesn't become a Buccaneer and Jake Plummer doesn't un-retire, head coach Jon Gruden needs to build a quarterback depth chart from a group that includes holdovers Jeff Garcia and Luke McCown along with newcomers Brian Griese (Bears) and rookie Josh Johnson (San Diego). Garcia made the Pro Bowl last year, but his age (38) and public dissatisfaction with his contract could cause Gruden to re-think his No. 1 status.


The rotation at a crowded running back position (Cadillac Williams, Earnest Graham, Warrick Dunn, Michael Bennett) must also be devised. The biggest changes for Monte Kiffin's defense could come at end, where Marques Douglas (49ers) and Jimmy Wilkerson (Chiefs) were brought in for their run- stopping prowess, and in a secondary that now includes ex-Patriots safety Eugene Wilson and highly-regarded rookie corner Aqib Talib (Kansas). Gruden and Kiffin will have to be careful how they tinker with a unit that ranked third in NFL scoring defense a year ago.


Miami Dolphins - QB Rotation: Josh McCown, John Beck, rookie Chad Henne.

Tony Sparano is the new head coach, a former assistant with Bill Parcells in Dallas. He is a proponent of a balanced offense.

Miami
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Dolphins Training Center, Davie, FL

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


The Dolphins made almost wholesale personnel, coaching, and front office changes during the offseason, giving this club the look of an expansion team heading into camp. That's not necessarily a bad thing, since expansion teams usually finish better than the 1-15 Miami posted a year ago.



The biggest of many questions is at quarterback, where Josh McCown (Raiders) will battle John Beck and rookie Chad Henne (Michigan) for starting duties.

The return of running backs Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, both of whom went down with season-ending injuries a year ago, also bears watching. First-round draft pick Jake Long (Michigan) anchors the new-look o-line.

Defensively, head coach Tony Sparano and coordinator Paul Pasqualoni aren't sure to have potential holdout Jason Taylor in camp, though there are many more pressing worries on that side of the football. The front seven could feature as many as five new starters, including rookie end Phillip Merling (Clemson), tackles Jason Ferguson (Cowboys) and Randy Starks (Titans), and linebackers Akin Ayodele (Cowboys) and Reggie Torbor (Giants).


Denver Broncos - QB Rotation: Jay Cutler, Patrick Ramsey, Darrell Hackney
Denver
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 24th, Veterans July 24th

SITE: Paul D. Bowlen Memorial Centre, Englewood, CO

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


There are position battles worth watching up and down the Broncos depth chart as camp begins. The most telling could be at running back, where holdover Selvin Young and newcomer Michael Pittman (Buccaneers) try to replace the departed Travis Henry.


Wideout should get interesting too, with the troubled Brandon Marshall a question mark following a mysterious offseason wrist injury, and new faces like Darrell Jackson (49ers), Keary Colbert (Panthers), Samie Parker (Chiefs) and rookie Eddie Royal (Virginia Tech) looking to work their way into the rotation there. First-round draft choice and left tackle Ryan Clady and free agent center Casey Wiegmann (Chiefs) anchor the new-look Denver line.

On defense, where the Broncos finished 30th against the run and 28th in NFL scoring defense a year ago, coordinator Bob Slowik needs to see newcomers like tackle Dewayne Robertson (Jets), linebacker Boss Bailey (Lions), and safety Marlon McCree (Chargers) make an immediate impact. With Jason Elam (Falcons) gone, ex-Atlanta castoff Matt Prater will enter camp with a corner on the place-kicking job. The similarly unknown Sam Paulescu is the leader in the clubhouse for punting duties.


Houston Texans - QB Rotation: Matt Schaub, Sage Rosenfels, rookie Alex Brink.

The new offensive coordinator is Kyle Shanahan, as 2007 offensive coordinator Mike Sherman is the new head coach at Texas A&M.
Houston
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Houston Texans Practice Facility, Houston, TX

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


Quarterback Matt Schaub, who suffered some injuries and was outplayed at times by Sage Rosenfels last season, needs to stay healthy and look sharp throughout camp in order to avoid controversy.


The same goes for running back Ahman Green, who now finds rookie Steve Slaton (West Virginia) and ex-Titan Chris Brown alongside him on the depth chart at that position.


Wideout Andre Johnson, who missed all of the team's May mini-camps after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery May 15th, is expected to be ready for the start of camp but will probably be brought along slowly.
Defensively, the big concern is in the secondary, where the club is unlikely to have cornerback Dunta Robinson (knee) before September.


Offseason additions such as Jacque Reeves (Cowboys), rookie Antwaun Molden (Eastern Kentucky) and safety Nick Ferguson (Broncos) must prove that they can contribute.
Pass rusher Rosevelt Colvin (Patriots) needs to show that he has something left at the age of 30 and can offset budding superstar Mario Williams.

St. Louis Rams - QB Rotation: Marc Bulger, Trent Green, Brock Berlin, Bruce Gradkowski.

The Rams have a new offensive coordinator in Al Saunders, who ran high scoring offenses in K.C. under Dick Vermeil.

Upgrading the O-line is a key: Ram QBs were sacked 48 times last season and the running game was 25th.

St. Louis
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Concordia University, Mequon, WI

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


Given the injury problems they faced during last year's 3-13 debacle, staying relatively healthy throughout camp would be a great start for the 2008 Rams.

The offense, now directed by coordinator Al Saunders, will be especially worth watching. Saunders is a proven offensive mind, but his attack took some time to take hold in his most recent stop with the Redskins...and St. Louis and embattled head coach Scott Linehan don't have much time.


A key to the offense's success will be the health and effectiveness of the line group, which will have to be identified during camp. Jim Haslett's defense (31st in NFL scoring defense last year) needs some work too, but there won't be many new faces to tutor apart from No. 2 overall draft pick and defensive end Chris Long. The biggest special teams story at camp will be at kicker, where former Ram-killer Josh Brown (Seahawks) takes over for the retired Jeff Wilkins.


Tennessee Titans - QB Rotation: Vince Young, Kerry Collins, Ingle Martin, Paul Thompson.

Offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger returns to Tennessee after a two-year hiatus in Denver, replacing Norm Chow.
Tennessee
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th
SITE: Austin Peay State University, Clarksville, TN/Baptist Sports Park, Nashville, TN

CAMP OBJECTIVES:


Mike Heimerdinger is back as the Titans' offensive coordinator following a three-year hiatus, and his main objective will be breathing some life into an offense that has recently moved in fits and start.
Tight end Alge Crumpler (Falcons) and rookie running back Chris Johnson (East Carolina), and prodigal wideout Justin McCareins (Jets) were brought in to help take some pressure off of Vince Young, and all will have to prove they're ready to contribute.


A defense that was ranked high in most NFL statistical categories a year ago won't change much, though there has been some turnover at defensive end. Jevon Kearse (Eagles), 31, whose early pro promise has been overshadowed by countless injuries, will have to show that he has something left in his second stint with the club.


Dallas Cowboys - QB Rotation: Tony Romo, Brad Johnson, Richard Bartel.

WR depth thin.
Dallas
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 25th, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Residence Inn/River Ridge Field, Oxnard, CA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
Though the cameras will focus on, and the notebooks will chronicle, every move that the likes of Tony Romo and Terrell Owens make in Oxnard, the biggest stories from a pure football standpoint should be on defense.
Dallas has brought in cornerbacks Adam Jones (Titans) and rookie Michael Jenkins (South Florida) to a secondary that has had its problems in pass coverage recently.
There is also some question about how the much- maligned Roy Williams fits into a safety rotation to include Ken Hamlin and converted cornerback Anthony Henry. The biggest addition in the front seven is ex-Dolphins star Zach Thomas, who needs to prove he has something to contribute as he nears the age of 35.
Besides Romo and Owens, others to watch on offense include rookie running back Felix Jones (Arkansas) and somewhat disgruntled wideout Terry Glenn, who is trying to win the No. 2 receiving job opposite Owens but battled injuries all of last year.

San Diego Chargers - QB Rotation: Philip Rivers, Billy Volek, Charlie Whitehurst, Casey Bramlet.
San Diego
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 21st, Veterans July 25th

SITE: Chargers Park, San Diego, CA

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
Like the Colts, the Chargers are a reigning division champion that simply doesn't have a lot of pressing issues heading into camp.
Offensively, the most significant position to watch is probably at backup running back, as Michael Turner (Falcons) is gone and Darren Sproles and rookie Jacob Hester (LSU) are among those trying to pick up the slack.
With Nick Hardwick (foot) expected to miss training camp, the club is relying on veteran Jeremy Newberry (Raiders) to stay healthy and take his place.
On defense, the four-game suspension that Stephen Cooper faces due to his positive steroid test means that veteran newcomer Derek Smith (49ers) or the blossoming Anthony Waters will have to emerge during camp as an opening day inside linebacker. First-round draft choice Antoine Cason (Arizona) will battle holdover Paul Oliver for nickel cornerback duties.




MONDAY'S GAME 8/11/08

Cincinnati Bengals - QB Rotation: Carson Palmer, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Jeff Rowe, Jordan Palmer.

New defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer takes over and said the team will stay with a four-lineman base.
Cincinnati
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 27th, Veterans July 27th

SITE: Georgetown College, Georgetown, KY

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
It now appears that disgruntled wide receiver Chad Johnson will indeed show up for training camp, though how much work he does following recent ankle surgery remains to be seen. No matter, the Bengals need to develop young wideouts like Andre Caldwell (Florida) and Jerome Simpson (Coastal Carolina) in the event that Johnson goes AWOL at some point.
Otherwise, the biggest concerns for Marvin Lewis' club are, as usual, on defense.
Lewis and new coordinator Mike Zimmer must identify a group of linebackers, with first-round draft choice Keith Rivers (USC) and ex-Cardinal Darryl Blackstock among those threatening for jobs. Up front, the defection of Justin Smith (49ers) robs the team of its most reliable presence at end. Ex- Titan Antwan Odom is among the new faces at that position, and must show that he's ready to contribute.
Zimmer is expected to blitz more in order to prop up what has been a deficient pass rush, a situation that will put more pressure on a young secondary. All parties must pick up his scheme quickly.


Green Bay Packers - QB Rotation: Aaron Rodgers, rookie Brian Brohm, Matt Flynn.

Defensive line health is a concern. Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila is coming off arthroscopic knee surgery. Former first-round pick Justin Harrell has missed his second offseason, this time with an injured back, and has fallen behind. Colin Cole (forearm), Johnny Jolly (shoulder) and Daniel Muir (pectoral muscle) have also missed some time because of injuries. "I'd just like to see those guys get healthy," HC Mike McCarthy said.


Green Bay
REPORT DATES: Rookies July 27th, Veterans July 27th

SITE: Packers Training Complex, Green Bay, WI

CAMP OBJECTIVES:
Until the Brett Favre situation reared its ugly head, Packers camp was supposed to include precious few distractions. Green Bay did not have much roster turnover from a team that went 13-3 in 2007, with the biggest would-be storylines coming from Aaron Rodgers' summer development and the team's attempt to replace departed defensive tackle Corey Williams.
As it is now, Rodgers still has plenty of pressure on him, and Favre's potential appearance isn't likely to make things easier for the former first-rounder. On the injury front, end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila is expected to be in attendance at camp despite undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery on May 29th.

[Dr. Jack]

Getting close, good luck this year Kramer

[Steel]

Thanks Kramer, can't wait.