We have seen players get PUP designation, which is generally one of the first legit pieces of information shared from the team. They let you know in advance why a player is not on the field. In our case, we had to be happy about a short list that did not include Buckner. Most were not surprised to read Pierce’s name on the list, but seeing our first pick in the draft added, did catch most off guard. Then you had to wait to find out what body part was the reason for the designation. The good news
is that it appears to be a minor calf issue. It is not optimal, but unless is lingers for more than a couple of weeks, I’d say we have to be pretty pleased with the first report.
From there, we get actually practices! No pads or anything, but it did offer the chance to see who got the initial 1st team reps. On offense, someone had to take Pittman’s reps and Dulin, somewhat expectantly got first dibs. Treadwell was also part of the 1’s, as a Pierce replacement was needed. The backfield and the O-line were all of the starters from last year. Whether Farmer can create a role for himself, may be the only question that will be resolved in training camp. AR did get 2nd team snaps over Leonard.
On defense, even with Buckner not designated as unable, he didn’t take snaps. Wooden slid in there for now. I think we will see a lot of Limited Participation (LP) weekly designations during the season for Buck. Boettcher played Allen’s role, which highlights just how fragile the LB room might be. Pratt is still out there and shouldn’t be expensive, so pick up the phone! The CBs were as expected, as Walley moved into the slot with the 1st team. Wohlers got the first shot over Haulcey. Nothing against Wohlers and he was a darling of camp last year, but I’d be a little disappointed if Haulcey did not win role opposite Bynum.
AP’s sidelined status, should provide a lot of opportunities to see if roles will go to our rostered players, or if an upgrade is required. I would guess that all of the WRs get a shot with Jones, as you may not be able to tell as much by what they do with AR and Leonard. As for AR, the outward line is that he is a valuable member of the team and that we still expect him to succeed in the league. How many fans really expect to see him succeed with us? If a starting QB goes down for another team, I have to believe that a 4th is offered and accepted.
Speaking of QBs, I am probably burying the lead as DJ took first team snaps and showed no ill effects. If you are as optimistic as I am about the coming season, Jones replicating last year’s performance is paramount. I didn’t see a stat line, official or otherwise, but his movement was reported as a non-issue. It also sounds like Leonard was not sharp. Maybe he was bummed about being 3rd string?
Camp won’t stop the speculation season, but does provide some tangible visuals and data to fuel the thoughts. Have you seen anything that might change your thoughts on the starters or the roster in general?
