The Athletic Picks 32 NFL Newcomers to Watch for 2026 Training Camp
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 6
The Athletic Picks 32 NFL Newcomers to Watch for 2026 Training Camp
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 6
Summary
The Athletic’s NFL writers named one intriguing newcomer for each of the league’s 32 teams ahead of 2026 training camp, spotlighting additions carrying the heaviest expectations.
Coaches and coordinators dominated the list as much as players, with figures such as Arizona coach Mike LaFleur, Buffalo defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard and Dallas defensive coordinator Christian Parker framed as potential season-shapers.
Several picks centered on marquee acquisitions expected to alter contenders’ ceilings, including Baltimore’s Trey Hendrickson on a four-year, $112 million deal, Denver trade addition Jaylen Waddle and the Rams’ blockbuster pickup of Myles Garrett.
Rookies and under-the-radar additions also featured prominently, from Arizona’s No. 3 draft pick Jeremiyah Love and Chicago safety Dillon Thieneman to Jacksonville running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Miami guard Kadyn Proctor.
The survey casts training camp as an early test of whether headline hires, big-money veterans and first-year prospects can quickly reshape playoff hopes across the NFL.