The Buccaneers flashed both promise and concern in their Pittsburgh tuneup. Bridgewater operated with veteran poise, finishing 6-of-11 for 85 yards with two touchdowns and guiding two scoring drives, keeping QB2 chatter alive behind Mayfield. Trask struggled, hinting at deeper questions about TB’s Week 1 depth chart. Injuries to Godwin Jr. and Wirfs tightened the backfield calculus and underscored the need for more robust line play and running production.

Playmakers stepped up: Emeka Egbuka landed TB’s first NFL TD on a clean route, Zyon McCollum flashed lockdown potential with an early INT, and Kindle Vildor added an interception and sticky coverage. Jacob Parrish reinforced his growing cornerback ceiling, while Charlie Heck’s edge discipline and Wirfs’ looming return frame TB’s strategic decisions. The ground game lagged, and the defense will face steeper tests as injuries shape the next game plan.

In all, TB’s preseason flow suggests a competitive QB2 race, with Bridgewater’s steadiness potentially nudging Trask into a more defined role. Injuries and pass rush issues demand a closer look at O-line depth and backfield balance. The Steelers will be ready to test TB again, but early returns point to a capable, evolving depth chart that fantasy players should watch closely as rosters trim.

The Denver Broncos' wide receiver lineup is shaping up nicely with Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims as the expected starters, while Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin are positioned as backing players. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi praised Sutton's improved performance from last season, highlighting his strong training camp. Mims, noted for his promising finish last year, is also expected to continue growing. Vele has recently shown improvement, and rookie Pat Bryant will need to prove himself to secure a spot. The competition for the six-player WR roster spot will be fierce, with veteran Trent Sherfield and Michael Bandy also in the mix for consideration.

The Carolina Panthers continued to bolster their linebacker corps by signing Krys Barnes after workouts with three players this Sunday. The team, looking to improve defensively, evaluated Barnes alongside Max Tooley and Ryan Meed. Barnes, a former standout at UCLA, brings experience and versatility to the Panthers' roster.

Max Tooley, a rookie out of Brigham Young University, played six seasons in college, amassing impressive stats including 311 tackles and seven interceptions. He has spent time with the Minnesota Vikings practice squad, hoping to make an impact at the pro level. Ryan Meed, also a six-year college veteran, recorded modest numbers with 65 tackles during his time in college. The Panthers are clearly focused on enhancing their depth at linebacker as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Keidron Smith's journey from undrafted player to a member of the Denver Broncos' 53-man roster showcases resilience and determination. After a notable preseason in 2024, Smith carved out a role, notably on special teams, but faced challenges as he was waived after nine games and shifted to the practice squad. With competition heating up during training camp, Smith is vying for one of the two remaining safety positions. Christopher Hart's insights indicate that while Talanoa Hufanga, Brandon Jones, and P.J. Locke appear secure on the roster, Smith’s contributions on special teams could be pivotal in his battle for a spot. The stakes are high as he seeks to defy expectations once again.

As Smith trains to solidify his position in the Broncos' lineup, the pressure mounts with several players competing for limited spots, highlighting the fierce competition in the NFL. His performance in the upcoming preseason games will be critical, both for his career and for the team's depth at the safety position.

Day one of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' mandatory minicamp showcased a range of developments. Notably, Baker Mayfield addressed the media, while the team's running backs, Rachaad White and Bucky Irving, discussed their roles and competition for the starting spot. Despite injuries sidelining some players, the atmosphere remained positive, with head coach Todd Bowles engaging with attendees. The team's first practice included several notable performances from both veterans and rookies, indicating a competitive edge as they prepare for the season.