The Broncos have confidence in LB Jonah Elliss, who is expected to transition smoothly to inside linebacker, showcasing his versatility on the field. For the Raiders, HC Klint Kubiak is pushing RB Ashton Jeanty to elevate his game in his second season, emphasizing that competition is vital for player development. Additionally, Kubiak is relying on veteran QB Kirk Cousins to lead the team amid the introduction of rookie QB Fernando Mendoza, aiming for a competitive edge during practice and training camp.

By the Numbers
  • Cousins is taking the majority of first-team reps while Mendoza works mainly with rookies.
  • Ashton Jeanty, last year's first-round pick, is expected to see an increase in play-snap percentage this season.
Yes, But

While Kubiak pushes Jeanty for improvement, it remains unclear how effective this strategy will be in enhancing his performance on the field, especially given the potential pressure to perform with competition in the backfield. Furthermore, the long-term impact of Cousins' leadership on the development of Mendoza is uncertain.

State of Play
  • Jonah Elliss's transition to inside linebacker is being closely monitored as he showcases talent in various positions.
  • The Raiders are actively competing for positions during OTAs and minicamp, with players being evaluated based on their performance in practices.
What's Next

As the season approaches, expect increased competition in both the Raiders' running back and quarterback positions. Player performances during training camp will likely shape the final roster decisions and starting positions.

Bottom Line

The development of players like Jonah Elliss and Ashton Jeanty is critical for the success of the Broncos and Raiders. Both teams are embracing competition in training sessions, which could lead to improved team performance and depth as they head into the upcoming season.