As NFL training camps kick into high gear and the preseason unfolds, several franchises are already showing signs of trouble that could foreshadow a rocky road ahead. From injury setbacks to mounting uncertainties at key positions, it’s time to spotlight the most concerning developments impacting team outlooks this year. Here’s a team by team breakdown of the top red flags emerging from training camp and early preseason action.
1. Los Angeles Rams Matthew Stafford’s Health Uncertainty
At 37 and entering his 17th NFL season, quarterback Matthew Stafford’s fitness remains a major concern for the Rams. He has missed the entirety of training camp due to a recurring aggravated disc issue in his back. Though a recent throwing session impressed head coach Sean McVay, Stafford still wasn’t cleared to practice on Monday, contradicting earlier optimism .
Back injuries are notoriously unreliable, especially in veteran quarterbacks. Stafford’s return represents a pivotal moment for Los Angeles, a team with genuine championship aspirations. Last season, injuries including those to standout receivers derailed their momentum early on. With offseason addition Davante Adams joining Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, the offense has potential to shine but only if Stafford can stay healthy and avoid setbacks. One mistimed fall or a heavy hit could undo much of the progress made .
2. Kansas City Chiefs – Injuries to Key Pieces
The Chiefs are facing health-related challenges even before the regular season begins. Cornerback Kristian Fulton, who has yet to complete a full season in his five year career, is just back from knee surgery. Meanwhile, wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown remains sidelined with an ankle or foot injury since late July .
Both players were expected to contribute significantly Fulton in the secondary and Brown in Kansas City’s deep passing game. Losing Brown becomes even more impactful considering the looming absence of Rashee Rice, who faces league suspension. With potentially two of their top three receivers unavailable, the pressure on Patrick Mahomes’ offense increases. Additionally, new rookie left tackle Josh Simmons is under scrutiny as the offense seeks protection and continuity up front .
3. Los Angeles Chargers – Losing Rashawn Slater
Injury woes continue to plague the Chargers as Pro Bowl left tackle Rashawn Slater tore his patellar tendon during training camp. The blow comes just days after Slater signed a four-year, $114 million extension and before the season could even begin .
To fill the void, Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh has shifted Joe Alt originally intended as future left tackle into Slater’s old role, while Trey Pipkins slides into the right tackle spot. The reconfiguration may keep them competitive, but it’s unlikely to match the dominance of the original unit .
Meanwhile, the team is counting on Najee Harris to carry the running game despite his eye injury, and rookie Omarion Hampton is expected to provide support. Adding Keenan Allen back into the mix strengthens the offense, yet the offensive line’s health remains a linchpin for the team’s fortunes .
4. Cleveland Browns – Turmoil At Quarterback
The Browns arrive in 2025 with one of the most intriguing quarterback competitions in the league. Vets Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett are joined by drafts picks Dillon Gabriel and the especially talked about Shedeur Sanders.
Sanders grabbed headlines during his debut in the preseason, completing 14 of 23 throws for 138 yards and two touchdowns. While that performance came largely due to injuries to Pickett and Gabriel, it has only amplified public interest and speculation .
Despite the attention Sanders attracts, Flacco remains the most experienced and viewed as the front-runner, particularly after his previous miracle run to the playoffs. The Browns continue to evaluate their options while managing media hype, internal expectations, and depth beneath the surface .
5. Philadelphia Eagles – Offensive Line Uncertainty
The reigning Super Bowl champions are now facing fresh adversity up front. Guard Landon Dickerson suffered a knee injury during practice that required him to be carted off. Fortunately, the diagnosis suggests only a partial meniscus trim may be necessary raising hope for a return before the regular season .
Still, Dickerson’s absence would be a major blow. Philadelphia’s offensive line has been a cornerstone of their offensive success, enabling Saquon Barkley to rush past 2,000 yards. With Mekhi Becton already gone in free agency, the Eagles have leaned on Tyler Steen at guard. If Dickerson can’t suit up, Philadelphia may shift Steen to left guard and scramble for solutions on the right a precarious proposition for any title contender .
What This Means for Each Franchise
Los Angeles Rams
The quarterback remains the heart of every team, and Stafford’s durability or lack thereof looms largest of all. If his back issue lingers, the offense may struggle to maintain pace with league heavyweights. Time will tell if he can regain form without compromise.
Kansas City Chiefs
Missing contributors in both the secondary (Fulton) and aerial targets (Brown) puts strain on Mahomes, particularly if Rashee Rice’s suspension materializes. The offensive line’s unknowns further complicate matters and could set the tone for early-season inconsistency.
Los Angeles Chargers
Slater’s injury disrupts a line built for consistency and power. The reshuffled configuration may hold, but it’s a gamble on cohesion against high caliber defensive fronts; durability across the line will be crucial.
Cleveland Browns
Sanders injecting new life into the quarterback race is compelling but it’s also a potential disruptor. In seasons past, unique QB battles have derailed locker room peace. Cleveland must create a constructive environment to manage both hype and performance.
Philadelphia Eagles
The strength of the Eagles’ offense has been rooted in its line. Dickerson’s possible absence could unravel much of that foundation. If the team can’t secure a suitable replacement, the ripple effects might compromise both the run and pass games.