Football Season is Here!
Football is back in action! All 32 NFL teams are gearing up for the 2025 season, with organized team activities (OTAs) taking center stage over the next few weeks. Teams can conduct a total of 10 OTAs, split into a maximum of three per week during the first two weeks. For the following two weeks, they can schedule up to four OTAs, while weekend practices are not allowed in what is known as Phase 3 of the offseason program.
Practice Regulations
During these sessions, teams can engage in 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills, provided that live contact is not permitted. Players are required to wear helmets and shells, though protective knee and elbow pads are allowed.
Upcoming Minicamp and Summer Break
It’s challenging to evaluate player performance during these team practices, but teams view them as essential for on-field development in the lead-up to mandatory minicamp in mid-June, followed by a five-week summer break before training camp begins.
Highlights from Early OTAs
What has caught attention during the early stages of OTAs across the NFL? Here’s a closer look at player performances observed during public media sessions league-wide.
Titans’ New Quarterback
The Titans held an open OTA session, focusing on their No. 1 overall pick and new franchise quarterback. Ward completed 11 of 17 attempts, achieving 8 of 10 during the 7-on-7 drills. He demonstrated composure and leadership but shared reps with Will Levis, who was the starting quarterback for most of last year. This year is expected to center around Ward’s development as the team’s quarterback.
Quarterback Battles
The battle for the starting quarterback position intensifies with the Colts, where Richardson and Jones are vying for the role. Both shared starting reps, with Richardson starting first. During the 7-on-7 session, Jones excelled at 11 of 12, while Richardson went 8 for 14, showcasing promising completions but less efficiency.
Other Notable Performances
In other evaluations, Dillon Gabriel completed 11 of 16 throws with two touchdowns and one interception, while veteran Joe Flacco went 9 of 14. Kenny Pickett finished with 9 of 16, without any touchdowns or interceptions. Although Pickett was the starter, Gabriel played ahead of Sanders in this competitive QB landscape.
