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Wafric News – May 6, 2025

As the NFL offseason rolls on and teams look ahead to the start of training camps, the time between the NFL Draft and the beginning of the season might seem quiet. But rest assured, it's far from uneventful. Over the next couple of months, teams across the league will be holding their Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamps, and there are key storylines to follow during these important months. Here are the top 10 stories to keep an eye on during OTAs and minicamps:

1. Aaron Rodgers’ Decision

It’s the topic that won’t go away. Aaron Rodgers, despite making it clear that there’s no immediate timeline for his decision, continues to hold the NFL’s attention. The Steelers, in particular, find themselves at a crossroads. While the assumption is that Rodgers will join Pittsburgh, the wait remains the team’s major offseason storyline. As Rodgers deals with personal issues off the field, his decision continues to loom large over the Steelers' future plans.

2. When Will Micah Parsons Get Paid?

The Dallas Cowboys have a history of waiting to reward their stars, often at the cost of paying them more than they should have. Micah Parsons is the next in line for a lucrative contract extension, and the question isn’t if he will get paid, but when. Parsons is attending the Cowboys' offseason workouts, signaling good faith during negotiations. Expect his eventual deal to be one of the offseason’s biggest headlines.

3. Browns QB Competition: Including Shedeur Sanders

Cleveland's quarterback situation is about to get a lot more interesting. With Joe Flacco likely to start, it’s a crowded depth chart at the position. Shedeur Sanders, the highly-touted rookie, finds himself entering OTAs behind Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and Dillon Gabriel. The big question: Can Sanders rise through the ranks to challenge for a primary backup spot, or will the Browns keep four quarterbacks? This battle will be one to watch closely in Cleveland.

4. New-Look Jets with Justin Fields

The New York Jets are entering a new era under head coach Aaron Glenn, and one of the biggest storylines is Justin Fields. Fields, now the starting quarterback, gets a second chance to establish himself in New York. The Jets’ offense will look significantly different from the failed Aaron Rodgers era. How Fields adapts to this new opportunity and leads the team will be a major focal point of OTAs.

5. J.J. McCarthy Takes Center Stage

The Minnesota Vikings’ offseason shakeup sees 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy stepping in after Sam Darnold's departure to the Seahawks. After suffering a season-ending knee injury last preseason, McCarthy is fully recovered and eager to show what he’s got. Vikings fans will be closely watching his progress during OTAs, as McCarthy looks to prove he’s ready to lead the team into the new season.

6. Brock Purdy’s Mega Extension

Brock Purdy is about to secure one of the most significant contract extensions of the offseason. After a breakthrough season earning just $985,000, the 49ers are expected to sign Purdy to a deal worth more than $50 million annually. His rise from underdog to superstar has been remarkable, and the details of his contract extension will be a hot topic in NFL circles as soon as it’s officially announced.

7. Colts QB Battle

The Indianapolis Colts' quarterback situation remains a point of interest as they bring in veteran Daniel Jones to challenge Anthony Richardson, the No. 4 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Richardson hasn't yet secured the starting spot, so how he performs during OTAs will determine whether he can hold off Jones and earn the starting role in year three. This competition will be crucial for the Colts moving forward.

8. Travis Hunter’s Dual Role with the Jaguars

All eyes will be on Travis Hunter as the No. 2 overall pick of the NFL Draft. The Jaguars plan to use him both on offense and defense, making him one of the most versatile players to follow. Jaguars head coach Liam Coen has detailed a plan to ensure Hunter gets ample reps on both sides of the ball. How the team utilizes him during OTAs will give us an early look at his role for the upcoming season.

9. Michael Penix Jr. and Kirk Cousins: Navigating New Roles

The Atlanta Falcons have made it clear that Michael Penix Jr. is the starting quarterback, which puts Kirk Cousins in an awkward position. After being signed with a hefty contract last offseason, Cousins now finds himself as a backup—or possibly trade bait. The dynamic between these two quarterbacks during offseason workouts will be one of the most closely watched storylines in Atlanta.

10. Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Comeback Season

Marvin Harrison Jr.'s rookie season with the Arizona Cardinals didn’t quite live up to the hype. While not bad, he certainly didn’t make an instant splash. But Coach Jonathan Gannon has high expectations for his second season, saying that Harrison Jr. has worked tirelessly on his game and will be ready to shine. Fans will be eager to see how the sophomore receiver develops during OTAs as he looks to live up to his potential.

As OTAs and minicamps unfold, the focus on these storylines will intensify. From Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain future to rookie quarterbacks like Shedeur Sanders and J.J. McCarthy, the offseason is sure to provide plenty of drama. Stay tuned as these stories evolve and set the stage for the 2025 NFL season.


By WafricNews Desk.


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