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5 non-quarterback training camp competitions Colts'' GM Chris Ballard highlighted

5 Non-Quarterback Training Camp Battles to Watch in the NFL

As NFL training camps kick off across the league, the spotlight often shines brightest on the quarterbacks—the signal-callers who can make or break a franchise's fortunes. But beyond the throws, the audibles, and the high-stakes competitions under center, there are countless other storylines simmering on practice fields from coast to coast. These are the battles for starting spots, roster survival, and breakout opportunities that involve everyone from hulking linemen to speedy pass-catchers. In this deep dive, we'll explore five intriguing non-quarterback training camp battles that could shape team identities, influence fantasy drafts, and even swing games come September. These aren't just side notes; they're the gritty, under-the-radar fights that reveal a team's depth, strategy, and potential weaknesses. Let's break them down one by one, examining the players involved, the stakes, and why these competitions matter in the grand scheme of the 2023 season.

1. The Running Back Logjam in Kansas City: Isiah Pacheco vs. Clyde Edwards-Helaire vs. Jerick McKinnon

The Kansas City Chiefs' backfield has been a revolving door of talent since Patrick Mahomes took over, but this year's camp promises one of the most crowded and competitive situations in the league. Isiah Pacheco, the seventh-round steal from last season, burst onto the scene with his bruising, downhill running style, averaging over 5 yards per carry and providing a spark in the playoffs. His emergence as a potential lead back has put pressure on incumbents like Clyde Edwards-Helaire, the former first-round pick whose career has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency. Edwards-Helaire showed flashes of his LSU explosiveness early on, but fumbles and health issues have relegated him to a committee role. Then there's Jerick McKinnon, the veteran swiss-army knife who excelled in the passing game last year, hauling in crucial receptions during the Super Bowl run.

What makes this battle so fascinating is how it ties into Andy Reid's offensive philosophy. Reid loves a versatile backfield that can keep defenses guessing, blending power runs with screen passes and checkdowns. Pacheco brings the physicality, potentially earning the bulk of early-down carries if he can improve his pass protection— a weak spot that coaches have harped on during OTAs. Edwards-Helaire, meanwhile, needs to prove his durability; reports from minicamp suggest he's in the best shape of his career, but staying on the field will be key. McKinnon, at 31, offers reliability in third-down situations, but his age could open the door for a younger player to steal snaps.

The implications extend beyond just touches. If Pacheco solidifies himself as the RB1, it could signal a shift toward a more ground-and-pound approach to complement Mahomes' aerial attack, easing the load on the star quarterback as he ages. Conversely, if Edwards-Helaire rebounds, it validates the Chiefs' draft investment and adds another dimension to their offense. Fantasy football enthusiasts are watching closely, as this could turn a muddled situation into a clear hierarchy—or leave it as a frustrating committee. Expect heated drills in St. Joseph, Missouri, where pad-popping runs and pass-blocking reps will determine who emerges as the alpha in this talented trio. This battle isn't just about individual glory; it's about balancing an offense that's already one of the league's most potent.

2. Wide Receiver Depth Chart Drama in Miami: Tyreek Hill's Supporting Cast

Down in South Florida, the Miami Dolphins boast one of the most electric wide receiver duos in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, but the real intrigue lies in the fight for the No. 3 spot and beyond. With Tua Tagovailoa's health always a question mark, the team needs reliable targets to stretch the field and create mismatches. Enter the competition between veterans like Chosen Anderson (formerly Robbie Chosen), Braxton Berrios, and emerging talents such as Erik Ezukanma and Cedrick Wilson Jr.

Hill and Waddle combined for over 2,500 receiving yards last season, but the drop-off after them was stark, contributing to offensive inconsistencies when defenses keyed in on the stars. Anderson, a deep-threat specialist who joined via trade, brings speed and experience, but his production has waned in recent years, and he must prove he can gel with Tagovailoa's quick-release style. Berrios, a slot receiver and return specialist, offers versatility, excelling in yards-after-catch scenarios that fit Mike McDaniel's scheme. Ezukanma, a 2022 fourth-rounder, has the physical tools—size and athleticism—to be a red-zone weapon, but he spent much of his rookie year on the bench, learning the ropes.

This battle will unfold through route-running precision and chemistry-building sessions with Tagovailoa. McDaniel's offense thrives on motion and misdirection, so the winner needs to be a quick learner who can exploit underneath routes while Hill draws double coverage. If Anderson rediscovers his Jets form, it could elevate the Dolphins' passing game to elite status, potentially pushing them deeper into the playoffs. Berrios might carve out a niche as a gadget player, while Ezukanma represents the upside of youth. Injuries have plagued this group in the past, so depth is crucial—especially with the AFC East's brutal defenses looming. Training camp in Miami Gardens will feature plenty of one-on-one drills, where separation skills and contested catches could decide who becomes the unsung hero in an offense built for speed.

3. Defensive Line Dominance in Philadelphia: Fletcher Cox's Heirs Apparent

The Philadelphia Eagles' defensive line has long been a cornerstone of their success, but with Fletcher Cox entering what could be his final seasons, the battle for interior dominance is heating up. Jordan Davis, the massive first-round pick from Georgia, is poised for a breakout after a solid but injury-limited rookie year. He's competing with Milton Williams, a versatile third-year player, and potentially free-agent additions like Linval Joseph if he returns, all vying for snaps alongside Jalen Carter, another Georgia product who's generating buzz.

Cox, a six-time Pro Bowler, remains the anchor, but at 32, the Eagles are planning for the future. Davis, at 6-foot-6 and 336 pounds, is a space-eater who can collapse pockets, but he needs to refine his pass-rush moves to become a three-down player. Williams has shown flashes of disruption, particularly in sub-packages, with his quick first step and ability to play multiple positions. Carter, despite off-field concerns that dropped him in the draft, brings elite athleticism and could form a terrifying tandem with Davis, reminiscent of the Bulldogs' championship front.

Under defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon (now with Arizona, but his influence lingers under new DC Sean Desai), the Eagles emphasize a stout front that allows linebackers to flow freely. Camp battles will focus on stamina, technique, and adaptability—think bull rushes against All-Pro tackles like Lane Johnson. If Davis and Carter dominate, it could make Philadelphia's defense even more formidable, pressuring quarterbacks without heavy blitzing. This group's performance might determine whether the Eagles repeat as NFC champions or falter against improved offenses like the 49ers. The physicality in Lehigh Valley practices will be intense, with these young bulls pushing each other to new heights.

4. Offensive Line Shuffle in Pittsburgh: Broderick Jones Steps Up

The Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive line has been a work in progress, but the arrival of first-round tackle Broderick Jones signals a potential turning point. He's battling incumbent Dan Moore Jr. for the left tackle spot, while the interior features competitions involving Kevin Dotson, Isaac Seumalo, and rookie Spencer Anderson.

Jones, a athletic specimen from Georgia, was drafted to protect Kenny Pickett's blind side, bringing the agility and power that Moore has sometimes lacked against edge rushers. Moore, a 2021 fourth-rounder, has started every game but struggled with penalties and pass protection, allowing too many pressures. Seumalo, a free-agent signee from Philly, adds veteran stability at guard, but Dotson's inconsistency could open doors for Anderson, a versatile lineman who impressed in college.

Mike Tomlin's teams pride themselves on physical, run-oriented lines, so camp will emphasize run-blocking drills and pass sets against a fierce Steelers defense. If Jones wins out, it stabilizes the unit and boosts the run game for Najee Harris. This battle is pivotal for an offense looking to evolve beyond its conservative roots, potentially unlocking Pickett's potential. Expect grunt work in Latrobe, where sweat and technique will forge the Steelers' trench warriors.

5. Secondary Showdown in Seattle: Tariq Woolen and the Rookies

The Seattle Seahawks' "Legion of Boom" days are long gone, but cornerback Tariq Woolen emerged as a star last year, earning Pro Bowl honors as a rookie. Now, he's anchoring a secondary battle featuring Devon Witherspoon, the No. 5 overall pick, and veterans like Michael Jackson fighting for the opposite corner spot.

Woolen, with his 6-foot-4 frame and sub-4.3 speed, is a shutdown artist, but Witherspoon brings feisty physicality and ball skills from Illinois. Jackson provides experience but must fend off the rookie. In Pete Carroll's Cover 3 scheme, versatility is key, and camp will test zone awareness and man coverage.

If Witherspoon adapts quickly, Seattle's secondary could be elite, complementing a resurgent pass rush. This group's cohesion might decide if the Seahawks build on their playoff surprise. Drills in Renton will highlight athleticism and instincts, shaping a defense with high upside.

These five battles encapsulate the essence of training camp: opportunity amid uncertainty. While quarterbacks grab headlines, it's these position groups that often determine championships. As pads crack and rosters take shape, keep an eye on these storylines—they could redefine teams and spark surprises in the fall. (Word count: 1,248)

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