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NFL OTAs Begin as Early Practices Start Shaping QB, WR and Safety Races

Voluntary, no-contact team periods are giving coaches first on-field looks that will steer roster choices and trade timing ahead of minicamp and training camp.

Overview

  • Teams across the league entered Phase 3 OTAs this week, with the Eagles, Lions, Patriots, Jaguars and Bears running the first non-contact offense-versus-defense periods that let coaches evaluate schemes and depth charts.
  • In Philadelphia, Jalen Hurts is working through Sean Mannion’s new offensive installation while rookie Makai Lemon is earning early first-team reps and the club is weighing A.J. Brown’s future with the June 1 cap timing influencing trade options.
  • Detroit’s OTAs are highlighting rookie bids and new additions, with Blake Miller and Derrick Moore pushing for early roles and Isiah Pacheco expected to compete immediately in the backfield.
  • New England is using OTAs to test Drake Maye’s chemistry with receivers and to sort rookie fits and battles at tackle, running back and kickoff returner as the coaching staff narrows depth ahead of mandatory sessions.
  • Observers caution that OTAs are voluntary and limited by NFL practice rules—no pads and restricted field hours—so early rep trends and absences matter for momentum but final roster decisions await minicamp and training camp.