NFL Training Camp Battles: Positions Up for Grabs in 2025

By Jason Bolton June 26, 2025 09:24

As NFL teams gear up for the 2025 season, training camps are set to become the battlegrounds where rosters take shape and starting roles are fiercely contested. After months of offseason moves, draft picks, and free-agent signings, the next few weeks will reveal which players have earned their spots. Several position battles stand out as particularly pivotal, with implications not only for individual careers but also for team success.

Quarterback Competitions: The Spotlight Shines Bright

The most high-profile quarterback battle is unfolding in Cleveland, where the Browns face a critical decision. Veteran Joe Flacco enters camp as the presumed starter, but young challengers Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and rookie Shedeur Sanders are pushing hard. Sanders, a fifth-round pick who slipped in the draft, has impressed coaches during minicamp and could force the Browns’ hand. Head coach Kevin Stefanski faces a tough choice as the Browns seek to improve on an offense that ranked last in expected points added (EPA) per dropback in 2024. Given the difficult early schedule, the starting quarterback spot may remain fluid well into the season.

Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts are navigating their own quarterback drama. Anthony Richardson, plagued by a shoulder injury, is trailing Daniel Jones, who has emerged as the early favorite to start. Jones, despite criticism during his tenure with the New York Giants, posted an 83.2 PFF passing grade when protected, indicating he can thrive in the right system. With Richardson sidelined during minicamp, Jones has had the opportunity to build chemistry with the offense.

Wide Receiver and Secondary Battles: Depth and Youth in Focus

The Green Bay Packers’ receiving corps could see significant changes, with potential trades opening opportunities for young talents like Dontayvion Wicks and rookie Savion Williams. Mecole Hardman’s standout minicamp performance has further intensified competition for snaps in Matt LaFleur’s offense.

In Baltimore, the departure of left guard Patrick Mekari has sparked a fierce competition among Andrew Vorhees, Ben Cleveland, and Garrett Dellinger to fill the void. The Ravens, who led the league in rushing last year, need a reliable presence to protect Lamar Jackson and maintain their ground game dominance.

The Las Vegas Raiders’ secondary is also in flux after losing Nate Hobbs in free agency. Cornerbacks Jakorian Bennett, Eric Stokes, Decamerion Richardson, and rookie Darien Porter are battling for starting roles. With a new head coach, Pete Carroll, and quarterback Geno Smith, the Raiders’ defensive backfield will be critical to their 2025 success.

Running Back and Offensive Line Battles

Denver’s backfield competition centers around rookie RJ Harvey, a second-round pick expected to carve out a role. He faces challenges from Audric Estime and Jaleel McLaughlin, with veteran J.K. Dobbins possibly entering the mix if signed. The Broncos aim to bolster their ground attack after a middling 2024 season.

Other Key Position Battles to Watch

The New England Patriots’ wide receiver room remains unsettled. Stefon Diggs is the clear No. 1 option but is recovering from an ACL injury. Young receivers Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker must prove their worth, while veterans Kayshon Boutte and Kendrick Bourne face uncertain futures. The Patriots’ success in 2025 hinges on the development of this group to support quarterback Drake Maye.

What’s at Stake?

Training camp battles are more than just preseason storylines; they determine the foundation of each team’s season. Players like Shedeur Sanders in Cleveland or Mecole Hardman in Green Bay are fighting not only for roster spots but for the chance to shape their teams’ futures. Coaches will weigh experience, potential, and fit within schemes as they finalize rosters.

As PFF analyst noted, “Training camps are where players become starters and backups become stars. The 2025 season’s narrative will be written in these early battles”.

The 2025 NFL training camps promise intense competition across multiple positions. Quarterback battles in Cleveland and Indianapolis will draw the most attention, but wide receiver, offensive line, and defensive backfield contests will be equally critical. With so many roles up for grabs, the coming weeks will showcase the grit, talent, and determination that define NFL success.