If you haven’t noticed, it’s mandatory minicamp week in the NFL. Thirty teams wrap their offseason programs this week with the only non-voluntary series of practices.
The only teams not conducting mandatory minicamp this week are the Bears (who held theirs last week) and the Lions (who canceled theirs, because they’ll start training camp early for the Hall of Fame game).
For players who don’t show up (and whose absences aren’t excused), the fines go like this: (1) $17,462 for the first day; (2) $34,925 for the second day; and (3) $52,381 for the third day. It adds up to a $104,768 fine for missing the whole thing.
The fines can be waived, unlike (for many players) the $40,000-per-day fine for skipping training camp.
Here’s a quick look at some of the issues and/or uncertainties hovering over many of the teams.
Patriots: They had their first session on Monday, and all questions about receiver Stefon Diggs seem to have been resolved. He’s there, and he’s all in.
Bills: Running back James Cook isn’t happy with his contract. The Bills have shown no inclination to give him a new deal.
Dolphins: Cornerback Jalen Ramsey has been excused as the team tries to trade him.
Steelers: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers makes his debut on Tuesday — and meets with reporters for the first time as a Steeler after practice.
Bengals: Defensive end Trey Hendrickson isn’t happy with his contract. He seems to be dug in. Will he stay away and pay the fines?
Browns: How will the practice reps be divided among their four quarterbacks?
Titans: Will rookie Cam Ward get the bulk of the first-team reps?
Colts: How will Daniel Jones, who now has a clear path to winning the starting job, look in the absence of Anthony Richardson (shoulder)?
Texans: Will quarterback C.J. Stroud participate despite recent soreness in his throwing arm?
Cowboys: Will linebacker Micah Parsons participate in on-field workouts as management keeps dragging their feet on a new contract?
Giants: Will Russell Wilson be the clear and unquestioned QB1 throughout the three-day session?
Commanders: Will receiver Terry McLaurin, who wants a new contract, show up?
Vikings: How will quarterback J.J. McCarthy look, now that the door is closed on the Aaron Rodgers break-glass option?
Falcons: Will quarterback Kirk Cousins take any reps as a potential trade looms?
Saints: Will rookie quarterback Tyler Shough get the bulk of the reps with the starting offense?
Rams: How will the decision to take the mandatory minicamp to Maui play out?
Seahawks: Will quarterback Sam Darnold cement his grip on the starting job?