As June arrives, NFL teams are fully engaged in organized team activities (OTAs), marking a fresh start as they shift focus from the 2024 season to preparing for 2025. This period is crucial for many veteran players, who finally have the opportunity to showcase their skills and discuss their progress since last season or their recent transfers to new teams.
Here are some noteworthy observations from this week’s OTA sessions across the league:
Seahawks’ coach Mike Macdonald backs Darnold after rocky start
On the first day of OTAs open to the media in Seattle, Sam Darnold appeared to struggle with his throwing. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed this as he confirmed Darnold’s position as the starting quarterback following his three-year, $100.5 million contract with the team. Macdonald stated, “It’s just not going to happen,” regarding any possibility of Darnold being replaced. “Sam’s our starting quarterback. We love him. He’s doing a tremendous job.”
There’s an interesting comparison to be drawn between Darnold’s lucrative contract and the competition faced by third-round pick Jalen Milroe, reminiscent of the 2012 scenario with Russell Wilson and Matt Flynn. However, Darnold enters this role after a considerably more successful season compared to Flynn’s tenure.
Travis Hunter shines with remarkable ball skills
Travis Hunter, an All-American and Heisman Trophy winner from Colorado, has been making headlines as he transitions to the NFL. Known for his exceptional talents as both a wide receiver and a defensive player during college, he continues to impress at OTAs. Notably, he demonstrated his impressive abilities with a spectacular one-handed interception, solidifying his reputation as a unique athlete.
Texans express confidence in ailing QB Stroud
C.J. Stroud has been absent from Texans OTAs due to discomfort initially labeled as a pectoral issue but now identified as “general” soreness in his shoulder. Despite this, head coach DeMeco Ryans reassured fans that there is no long-term concern. “We’re taking extra precaution with him, but he’ll be good to go. No concerns on my end there,” Ryans stated. He further clarified, “What I said, that’s it for him. It’s general soreness, and we’re taking extra precaution with him. We’re not gonna rush him into anything. He’ll be fine. When the moment is for him to be ready to go, he’ll be ready to go.”
Eagles rookie sidelined until training camp
Jihaad Campbell’s first-round draft selection was dampened by injury concerns, and unfortunately, those issues will delay his debut on the practice field as the Eagles have announced he won’t participate until training camp in August. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio remarked, “He won’t hit the practice field until sometime in August. We’re doing all we can; he’s doing all he can in meetings. We’re doing all we can with him on the field.”
Ridley praises Ward’s fearless mentality
As the Titans’ first overall pick, Cam Ward has already garnered admiration from his top wide receiver, Calvin Ridley. “I honestly want to hear what he [Ward] thinks,” Ridley expressed, noting his effort to communicate openly with Ward about improving their game. Ridley also mentioned Ward’s calm demeanor, citing the importance of having a relaxed quarterback, saying, “You can’t be an over-thinker, jittery guy … You’ve got to kind of be OK with f—ing up and doing good. You’ve got to have that f— it mentality, and he’s kind of got that.” This mentality served Ward well during his past seasons at Miami, Washington State, and Incarnate Word.
Pickens finding his rhythm
Early feedback on George Pickens during the Cowboys OTAs has been positive. The dynamic receiver, who recently changed his jersey number to No. 3, reportedly made an impressive catch during practice. As he looks to solidify his role as the No. 2 target for Dak Prescott, who returned to practice following the birth of his second child, any signs of a growing connection between the two are promising.
More opportunities for Flowers
With a clean bill of health after a late-season knee injury last year, Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers is set to play a significant role in the upcoming season. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken had high praise, noting, “We’ve just got to get him the ball more. He’s an unbelievable football player.” Monken highlighted Flowers’s versatility, mentioning his potential uses across the field, which should enhance his catch volume. Flowers is coming off a solid 2024 campaign, having recorded 74 receptions for 1,059 yards and four touchdowns, making his first Pro Bowl appearance. Though he won’t be eligible for a new contract just yet, a strong season ahead could set the stage for advantageous negotiations next offseason.