Across the NFL training camps are opening this week, meaning we’re one step closer to the new season, a new series of Hard Knocks and some proper football news!
Here is a run down of the key information for camps taking place across the AFC East along with a key story or two on which to keep an eye for each team.
Buffalo Bills
Camp location: St. John Fisher College, Pittsford, New York
Key dates:
- Rookies report: 28th July
- Veterans report: 29th July
- Preseason opener: August 13th vs Indianapolis Colts.
Keep an eye out: The Bills have 20 players returning for the 2016 season alongside coach Rex Ryan who is back for a second year in charge, so expectations are high for Buffalo to improve on last years’ 8-8 record. Given that twin brother Rob Ryan is joining Rex on the coaching team, expect some colourful soundbites in press conferences. On the football side, rookie linebacker Reggie Ragland will be an interesting prospect to follow, especially considering that first rounder Shaq Lawson will be out with injury for much of the season.
Click here for full training camp schedule
Miami Dolphins
Camp location: Baptist Health Training Facility at Nova Southeastern University, Davie, Florida
Key dates:
- Camp opens for all players: 28th July
- Preseason opener: August 12th at New York Giants.
Keep an eye out: A revamped Dolphins enter their first camp under new head coach Adam Gaise following a very tumultuous 2015 season. Expect scrutiny of Gaise’s initial impact, not least on the performance of QB Ryan Tannehill, who is facing a make or break year.
Click here for full training camp schedule
New England Patriots
Camp location: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, Massachusetts
Key dates:
- Rookies report: July 24th
- Veterans report: July 27th
- Preseason opener: August 11th vs. New Orleans Saint
- Joint practices:
- August . 9-10: with New Orleans Saints
- August 15-16:with the Chicago Bears
Keep an eye out: With Tom Brady suspended for the first four games of the season, the development of his back up Jimmy Garropolo will be under the spot light. The addition of Martellus Bennett will also be one to watch, with the Patriots hoping to return to the two tight end set which has served them so well in the past.
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New York Jets
Camp location: Atlantic Health Jets Training Center, Florham Park, New Jersey
Key dates:
- Camp opens for all players: 27th July
- Preseason opener: August 11th vs Jacksonville Jaguars
Keep an eye out: The Jets quarterback saga rumbles on, with Geno Smith currently pegged as the starter. Will Ryan Fitzpatrick be re-signed, or are the Jets really going to be riding the Geno-coaster in 2016? Facing a tough schedule, throughout camp, the Jets need to galavanise behind whoever ends up taking the snaps as starter.
Click here for full training camp schedule
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