NFL training camp is finally here. The defending champion Seattle Seahawks were first to open camp on July 17 and host the New England Patriots in a Super Bowl LX rematch to kick off the 2026 season on Sept. 9. All 32 teams begin their quest for Super Bowl LXI with position battles, injury returns, and new coaches and players acclimating.

In the AFC East, the Buffalo Bills transition to Jim Leonhard's 3-4 defense; the Miami Dolphins rely heavily on rookies like first-rounders Kadyn Proctor and Chris Johnson; the New England Patriots seek a contract resolution with cornerback Christian Gonzalez; and the New York Jets bet on a bounce-back from 35-year-old Geno Smith.

AFC North storylines include the Baltimore Ravens hiring Jesse Minter to get Lamar Jackson (turning 30) to the Super Bowl; the Cincinnati Bengals revamping defense under Al Golden; the Cleveland Browns quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders; and the Pittsburgh Steelers tailoring Mike McCarthy's offense for Aaron Rodgers, 42.

In the AFC South, the Houston Texans boast an elite defense but need the offense to hit 24 points — a mark that yields a 77% win rate with C.J. Stroud and DeMeco Ryans.