The return of the NFL is nearly upon us. Can I get an amen? 

Dallas Cowboys rookies are scheduled to report in five days. With the Cowboys and Arizona Cardinals set to kick off the 2017 season with the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 3, NFL fans are only three weeks away from competitive football. 

Much will be decided between the time rookies first step on the field and the start of the preseason. 

Two of the game's best had to earn their way onto rosters during the same stretch before going on to Hall of Fame careers. And Kurt Warner and Terrell Davis will be inducted in Canton a day prior to Cowboys-Cardinals. 

For the most part, organizations know how their rosters will be comprised. But a few spots remain open for those willing to compete and show out during training camp. Furthermore, there are some players who will be trying to earn starting gigs.

Quarterback competitions will draw the most interest, but every team has questions to answer at the onset of training camp.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

Will Greg Roman ignite the running game? 

Here's an interesting statistic even die-hard NFL fans likely don't know: The Ravens led the league in passing attempts in each of the last two seasons. Meanwhile, their run game sputtered. Hence, the team's hire of Roman as senior offensive assistant and tight ends coach might have been its biggest offseason move. 

Roman is arguably the game's best play-caller when it comes to devising run schemes. His brilliance led to Colin Kaepernick's breakout campaign and the Buffalo Bills' back-to-back top-ranked rushing attacks. 

"I think we wanted to just really refocus, retool and come up with a plan that we felt suited us best moving forward for the organization, and I think a lot of staffs do it every year," Roman said, per ESPN.com's Jamison Hensley. "But this kind of gave us an opportunity to really start at ground zero and see what we wanted to do."

Roman and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg must develop a running back stable that's filled with more potential than production. Terrance West and Kenneth Dixon have been joined by veteran Danny Woodhead, and the trio needs to provide more of a presence for Baltimore to have a balanced offense. 

Cincinnati Bengals

How will the new offensive tackles look? 

Left tackle Andrew Whitworth and right guard Kevin Zeitler ranked among the league's elite at their respective positions. Both left the Bengals in free agency and created massive holes along Cincinnati's offensive front. The Bengals had a plan to address those departures—sort of. 

During the 2015 draft, Cincinnati prepared for life without Whitworth by selecting offensive tackles Cedric Ogbuehi and Jake Fisher in the first and second rounds. Right tackle also became an issue after Andre Smith signed with the Minnesota Vikings. But he's back after one year away and is expected to replace Zeitler at right guard, a position he's never played. 

Meanwhile, Ogbuehi and Fisher will take over at left and right tackle, respectively. Neither performed well last season, but the Bengals staff seems content moving forward with both in its starting lineup. 

The offense is talented, but quarterback Andy Dalton won't be able to distribute the ball if the line can't adequately protect him. 

Cleveland Browns

Who will start at quarterback?

Other problem areas exist on the Browns roster, but none of them will be important if the team can't find a consistent presence behind center. Cody Kessler, Brock Osweiler and rookie second-round pick DeShone Kizer will compete to be named Cleveland's starting quarterback for Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

Head coach Hue Jackson rotated the trio during minicamp, but Kessler received the majority of first-team reps. A third-round selection last year, Kessler showed signs of promise with his ball placement and accuracy. But many, including Jackson, weren't thrilled with his ability to push the ball downfield.

A bigger concern exists, though. Kessler must process the game quicker. By holding the ball too long behind an inconsistent offensive line, the 6'1", 215-pound signal-caller took a beating last season and suffered a pair of concussions.

Kessler still remains the safe play because of his familiarity with the offense. Osweiler is an afterthought, while Kizer provides the allure of untapped potential. The Browns staff will likely be willing to push Kizer along faster than expected if he displays an accelerated learning curve during training camp. 

Pittsburgh Steelers

How will Keith Butler adjust the defensive scheme? 

The Steelers are legitimate Super Bowl contenders...if they can find a way to get past the New England Patriots. The Pittsburgh secondary wasn't up to the task when those teams met in January's AFC Championship Game. Tom Brady picked apart the Steelers' zone coverage schemes on his way to 384 passing yards. 

In response, Pittsburgh's defensive backs feel the need to be more aggressive this fall. 

"Every team that's won Super Bowls the last couple of years has been able to play man," cornerback Artie Burns said, per ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler. "We want to be a team to play man, get the pressure on the quarterback and attack coverage downfield."

Butler has been tasked with transitioning the defense from Dick LeBeau's zone blitz-heavy scheme into head coach Mike Tomlin's vision, which isn't nearly as good at disguising coverages.

If the staff is comfortable leaving some of its defensive backs on an island, Butler can get even more aggressive with his blitz packages. But he must strike a balance between where the defense is now and where it should be trending.

NFC North

Chicago Bears

Where does the production come from in the passing game? 

Let's look beyond the Bears' quarterback situation for a moment since the front office and coaching staff seem intent on starting veteran Mike Glennon. Who will he throw to?

Kevin White, the seventh overall pick in 2015, has yet to experience a healthy campaign. After missing all of his rookie season with an injured left leg, White played only four games last season before re-injuring the same leg. Before that point, he provided 19 receptions for 187 yards. Chicago is counting on him this season after Alshon Jeffrey departed in free agency. 

"I think he looks very healthy," head coach John Fox said, per ESPN.com's Jeff Dickerson. "With the things that we've done, I’m hoping he can remain healthy."

If White can't perform, the Bears will rely on multiple options who will have to prove themselves. Cameron Meredith, Josh Bellamy and Deonte Thompson return. Victor Cruz, Rueben Randle and Markus Wheaton were added, too. One or two of these receivers need to emerge. 

Detroit Lions

Who replaces Taylor Decker at left tackle? 

Injuries are the one thing coaches want to avoid during the offseason. Detroit didn't. Last year's first-round pick, Decker suffered a torn labrum during minicamp and will miss three to five more months, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. 

In an attempt to soften the blow, the Lions acquired Tony Hills, Cyrus Kouandjio and 2014 No. 2 overall pick Greg Robinson to compete for the starting job on the blind side. 

"I plan on benefiting from [my fresh start] tremendously," Robinson said, per the Detroit Free Press' Dave Birkett. "It's really refreshing, and I plan to make the most out of it."

Since Decker's injury happened late in the offseason, the left tackle spot will be open for any of the aforementioned blockers to claim. Others who were already on the roster, such as Corey Robinson, Cornelius Lucas and Joe Dahl, will receive opportunities to do the same.

Green Bay Packers

How will Mike McCarthy utilize Martellus Bennett? 

The Packers have rarely dabbled in free agency during Ted Thompson's tenure as general manager. When the team signs the top available tight end, like Green Bay did with Martellus Bennett, it's a major development. 

But the additions of Bennett and Lance Kendricks were a logical step for the organization as its offense continues to evolve. 

"You can't have enough big-body types running through the middle of the field," McCarthy said, per Packers News' Pete Dougherty. "... I think we have a chance to be the best [tight end] group we've had in my time here."

At 6'6" and 275 pounds, Bennett is a large target. He finished second on the Patriots last season with 701 receiving yards. He's also a strong in-line blocker, which is a rarity in today's game. When healthy, Jared Cook was a good option in the passing game, but he's not the complete tight end Bennett is. 

Minnesota Vikings

Can the Vikings' changes propel Sam Bradford to stardom? 

What a difference a year makes. Last year at this time, Teddy Bridgewater was prepared to lead the Vikings into the 2016 campaign with playoff and Super Bowl aspirations. But Aug. 30, the 2014 first-round pick suffered a devastating knee injury. 

Minnesota general manager Rick Spielman responded by acquiring Bradford. In his first season with the team, Bradford set an NFL record with a 71.6 completion percentage. His stellar play wasn't enough to overcome deficiencies throughout the roster, though. 

Spielman attacked those problem areas with the acquisitions of offensive tackles Riley Reiff and Mike Remmers as well as running backs Latavius Murray and second-round pick Dalvin Cook.

With a full offseason under his belt and improvements to the roster, Bradford has a chance to develop into the caliber of quarterback the St. Louis Rams envisioned when they used the No. 1 overall pick in the 2010 draft to select him.

AFC East

Buffalo Bills 

Can Sammy Watkins become a No. 1 target? 

Watkins is already dreaming of the 2018 offeseason. Maybe he should be more worried about what he does during training camp in preparation for the 2017 campaign. 

"We gotta get paid more I'm pretty sure 2014 class will change the market," Watkins tweeted. 

Here's the funny thing about Watkins' position: While he's likely right about the 2014 class resetting the market, the Bills didn't see enough in him to pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. 

Watkins hasn't played a full 16-game slate since his rookie campaign. Last season, he had just 28 receptions for 430 yards and two touchdowns in eight games. The Clemson product is supposed to be the team's top threat in the passing game. But Buffalo may look in the direction of rookie Zay Jones as it tries to develop a security blanket for quarterback Tyrod Taylor. 

Miami Dolphins

How will they stop the run? 

Plenty of responsibility falls on the ample shoulders of defensive tackle Jordan Phillips to improve this year. Ndamukong Suh played at a Pro Bowl level last season, yet the defense still finished 30th against the run. 

"Everybody knows, and I might as well be honest with myself," Phillips said, per ESPN.com's James Walker. "[I'm] a second-round pick that hasn't done what I needed to do so far.

"It's time to step up."

The 335-pounder is talented yet inconsistent. As he attempts to improve for this fall, training camp will serve as an opportunity to dominate his opposition, even if it's his teammates. The Dolphins guards are suspect. Phillips needs to win those matchups on a regular basis. If he can't do so, head coach Adam Gase should look in another direction to find a starting 1-technique. 

New England Patriots

Can Bill Belichick keep the team focused? 

Life is good for the Patriots. After all, they're the reigning Super Bowl champions. But Belichick is never content. 

For most, it's natural to enjoy success and experience a slight letdown after doing so. Belichick's sole focus, however, seems to be to keep his team focused on the 2017 campaign and not what it accomplished in Super Bowl LI. 

"It was a great night, but, really, we need to move on to 2017," Belichick said, per ESPN.com's Mike Reiss. "We've had enough parades, enough celebrations and enough everything. This '17 team hasn't done anything yet—none of us have. We really need to focus on what we're doing this year."

With the number of offseason additions the organization made, that may be easier to achieve than most years. New England traded for wide receiver Brandin Cooks, tight end Dwayne Allen and defensive end Kony Ealy. It also signed cornerback Stephon Gilmore, defensive end Lawrence Guy and running backs Rex Burkhead and Mike Gillislee. With that influx of talent, the Patriots will likely be less inclined to experience a letdown. 

New York Jets

What happens with Sheldon Richardson?

Richardson was a Pro Bowler in 2014 and the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year the season prior. Yet the Jets attempted to trade him last season and during the draft. 

He has one year remaining on his rookie contract, and Richardson's fit within a defensive front that also features Muhammad Wilkerson and Leonard Williams is in question. Last season, Richardson played out of position. He's most comfortable as a 3-technique, yet found himself playing outside linebacker at times, and a disagreement emerged between the player and his coach based on what he was asked to do. 

"He played 3-technique last year," Todd Bowles said, per ESPN.com's Rich Cimini. "He didn't play outside linebacker for two years. He played his position last year."

The Jets have two options. Either they allow Richardson to play a significant role alongside Wilkerson and Williams, or they attempt to trade him yet again. His performance during camp and in the preseason will help determine the best course of action. 

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys

Is the offensive line still the best in the business?

No one questioned the superiority of the Cowboys offensive line last season. The unit is still often referred to as the league's best. Yet those who do so overlook the fact two players need to be replaced during training camp.

First, veteran right tackle Doug Free retired. La'el Collins is expected to replace him after opening last season as the team's starting left guard.  

"It's weird because I feel like if you change positions and you're doing everything out of an opposite stance that it would take time, but it just feels damn natural to me," Collins said, per ESPN.com's Todd Archer. 

Collins' transition created a void at left guard. Jonathan Cooper, a 2013 first-round bust, is projected to start as he attempts to rekindle a once-promising career. Chaz Green and Joe Looney should push Cooper for the role. 

New York Giants

Will Ereck Flowers show any improvement? 

The Giants chose Flowers, then a 21-year-old underclassman, with the ninth overall pick in the 2015 draft. The organization saw immense potential yet downplayed how much work he needed to play at the highest level. As a result, Flowers floundered during his first two seasons. 

According to Pro Football Focus' Nathan Jahnke, Flowers allowed 128 pressure over the last two seasons, which was the most of any blocker. As a result, it surfaced that he could be moved from left tackle to the right side. New York decided to stand by its investment, though. 

The 329-pound blocker committed to an offseason regiment, and he's supposedly quicker than he's been.

"I feel good," Flowers said, per ESPN.com's Jordan Raanan. "I feel better. A little quicker."

Quarterback Eli Manning can only hope. 

Philadelphia Eagles

Who takes over the starting roles in the secondary? 

Nolan Carroll and Leodis McKelvin made up the Eagles' starting cornerback tandem last season. Neither are with the organization any longer. Both left in free agency, while the franchise concentrated on revamping the position. 

The coaching staff is still searching for a new pair of cover men. Second-year defensive back Jalen Mills is the leading contender to become the team's top option. He's been joined by veteran free-agent acquisition Patrick Robinson during minicamp, with rookie Rasul Douglas as the third corner.

But there's still time to rearrange the depth chart. 

"By no means is the roster even set or starters even selected," head coach Doug Pederson said, per the Philadelphia Inquirer's Les Bowen. "It's still a competition out there at that position. I'm really curious now when we get into camp with the pads on and we get to do a little more of the physical, bump-and-run and things like that, that's when we get a chance to see these guys really in action."

Washington Redskins

Which inside linebackers will emerge? 

Washington has its offensive leader in place for at least one more season, with quarterback Kirk Cousins leading the way. The defense needs to establish the same. 

Last season, Will Compton served as the unit's play-caller. He barked out the calls and got the defense aligned. He may not even be in the starting lineup this fall after the organization signed Zach Brown. Brown, Compton and veteran Mason Foster will compete to start at inside linebacker.

Brown is a far more athletic option than the other two, and he's coming off a breakout season in which he finished second in the NFL with 149 tackles. He earned a Pro Bowl berth and second-team All-Pro honors thanks to his performance. 

If the team's latest addition seems like a lock for one starting spot, that would leave either the defensive captain or last year's leading tackler out of the mix. 

AFC West

Denver Broncos

Which quarterback will develop into the leader of the offense? 

The Broncos aren't in an enviable position, having to choose between Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch as their starting quarterback. At least one of the team's prominent veterans wants new head coach Vance Joseph to make a decision soon. 

"About a week-and-a-half into training camp," five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Demaryius Thomas said regarding a preferred timetable, per Denver 9News' Mike Klis, "Before we go to San Francisco [for Week 2 of the preseason]."

Siemian started the majority of games last season. He finished his first year as a starter with a 59.5 completion percentage, 3,401 passing yards, 18 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Lynch played in three games and provided a 59.0 completion percentage, two touchdowns and an interception.

Siemian was the more vocal signal-caller during OTAs and minicamp, according to Thomas. If Lynch doesn't assert himself, he may have to wait another year before taking over the Broncos' offensive reins. 

Kansas City Chiefs

Who will replace Jeremy Maclin? 

The Chiefs signed Maclin to a five-year, $55 million contract prior to the 2015 campaign intending him to be the primary passing target. For one season, he provided everything the franchise envisioned with 87 receptions for 1,088 yards and eight touchdowns. His production took a nosedive during his second year as he dealt with a torn groin. 

The organization released Maclin this offseason without an obvious replacement plan. Of course, tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Tyreek Hill remain the team's most explosive options in the passing game. But another receiver needs to fill Maclin's role. 

The Chiefs have a slew of young options. Chris Conley, Jehu Chesson and Demarcus Robinson are the most obvious candidates, with Conley leading the way. 

"He's definitely stepped his game up; he's definitely talking more in the meeting room," Hill said of Conley, per the Kansas City Star's Terez A. Paylor. "It's all on him now. He's just got to step up and play like we know he can."

Los Angeles Chargers

How will all the wide receivers be used? 

On paper, the Chargers feature the league's deepest and possibly most talented group of wide receivers. It features Keenan Allen alongside Tyrell Williams, Travis Benjamin and Dontrelle Inman. The team spent the seventh overall pick on Clemson's Mike Williams, too. 

The Chargers will be running five deep, yet it's unlikely they'll rely heavily on empty sets to have all of them on the field at the same time.

Health will be a major factor. Allen's inclusion to this group is absolutely vital. He proved to be exceptional at the onset of his career, yet he's only played nine of a possible 32 games over the last two seasons. Williams continues to recover from a mild herniation in his lower back, too. 

This allowed Jamaal Jones and Geremy Davis to impress during minicamp, per the Los Angeles Times' Dan Woike. So even if the Chargers have to deal with more injuries, the team has no shortage of options.  

Oakland Raiders

How much will Marshawn Lynch play? 

Beast Mode is back, but everyone should temper expectations. Instead of Lynch making the earth move like he once did as a member of the Seattle Seahawks, the Raiders will be content with him simply moving the ball downfield and balancing the offense. 

The 31-year-old back's reps need to be monitored throughout the summer. As long as he has a good understanding of the Raiders offense, he doesn't need any more wear and tear in meaningless action. And his knowledge of the game has never been in question. 

"He's picking up on the offense so fast," left tackle Donald Penn said, per Eddie Paskal of the team's official site. "And our offense is pretty tough to pick up on, and for him to be doing that at such a fast pace, that really stood out the most." 

Lynch will be the lead back, of course. How the rest of the reps will be split between Jalen Richard and Dwayne Washington become an important facet of this year's camp. Both will likely take more practice reps than Lynch, even though they're backup options. They must keep the veteran fresh throughout the season. 

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals

Where do the team's new defensive pieces fit? 

The Cardinals' additions of Haason Reddick and Budda Baker in the first and second rounds of the NFL draft became two of the more underrated moves of the offseason. Reddick and Baker provide more flexibility to an extremely talented defense. 

Yes, the team lost its catalyst along the defensive front, Calais Campbell, yet coordinator James Bettcher can employ myriad formations with the likes of Reddick, Baker, Tyrann Mathieu, Deone Bucannon and Patrick Peterson on the field. 

While the team won't reveal much during open practice sessions or even preseason contests, the versatility each of the aforementioned players provide is impressive. 

Reddick was forced to take first-team reps during minicamp since Bucannon is recovering from offseason ankle surgery. The rookie was a collegiate defensive end-turned-linebacker with the natural skill set to play in space or rush the quarterback.

Baker, meanwhile, can play strong or free safety and cover the slot. He and Mathieu could be interchangeable. All of these pieces should make the defense more unpredictable even after finishing second overall last season by allowing 305.2 yards per game. 

Los Angeles Rams

How much has Jared Goff progressed? 

All eyes are on Goff. After the Rams acquired the first overall pick in the 2016 NFL draft to select the Cal product, he disappointed during his rookie campaign. Granted, the team lacked protection and a consistent running game, and Goff's receivers didn't help with numerous drops. Even so, new head coach Sean McVay's primary function is developing Goff into a franchise quarterback. 

"Oh, he's been getting better,"running back Todd Gurley said during an interview with Zig Fracassi on SiriusXM NFL Radio (via NFL.com's Jeremy Bergman). "Obviously, he didn't go No. 1 for no reason. He has the talent, and he's just been getting better. He definitely had a great OTAs, great minicamp." 

The team's willingness to provide Goff with a better supporting cast should accelerate his natural progression. The additions of left tackle Andrew Whitworth, center John Sullivan, tight end Gerald Everett and wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds should all help the quarterback in McVay's system. 

At this point, it's all or nothing for Goff. If he doesn't show signs of the talent that made him a top pick, the Rams will be in for a long season with their eyes turned toward the enticing 2018 quarterback class. 

San Francisco 49ers

How will the defensive front look?

After selecting a defensive lineman in the first round of three straight drafts, the 49ers must find a way to fit all on them onto the field, since their skill sets overlap to a degree. 

Solomon Thomas is expected to be the team's base end. This year's third overall pick is a disruptive run defender and a relentless pass-rusher. The Stanford product excels when allowed to line up over guards and use his quickness to his advantage. 

DeForest Buckner is the team's workhorse. The first-year defensive lineman played over 1,000 snaps last season. He's expected to be the team's every-down 3-technique. Buckner led all rookie defensive linemen last season with 35 defensive stops, per Pro Football Focus. 

Third-year defender Arik Armstead may face the most daunting change in coordinator Robert Saleh's defensive scheme. Armstead could serve as the team's "Leo" (rush end). The new staff believes in the 292-pound lineman's athleticism even though he never played this type of role for the 49ers or at Oregon. 

Saleh needs to cater to each of their strengths while finding a way for all three to be on the field at the same time.  

Seattle Seahawks

Which offensive linemen will emerge? 

The optimism regarding the Seahawks offensive line from the team's coaching staff never ceases to amaze. After fielding one of the league's worst units a year ago, offensive line coach Tom Cable is excited about this year's additions. 

First, the organization signed failed second overall pick Luke Joeckel. During the draft, the organization spent second- and sixth-round picks on LSU's Ethan Pocic and Mississippi State's Justin Senior. 

"I'd like to get to camp, but I'm the most excited coach on the staff right now," Cable said, per ESPN.com's Sheil Kapadia. "... Our personnel guys nailed this, so it's just a matter of getting them in the right spots and going and playing ball."

Outside of Justin Britt at center, there isn't a single position settled along Seattle's front five. Cable has a lot of work in front of him to get the perception of the talent on the roster to meet reality. 

AFC South

Houston Texans

Will Deshaun Watson force his way into the starting lineup?

Tom Savage is the Houston Texans' projected starting quarterback even though the former fourth-round pick hasn't displayed the traits necessary to lead an offense. In five career games, Savage completed 60.9 percent of his passes with no touchdowns and an interception. 

The organization made a bold move trading up in the first round to acquire Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson. How Watson performs in training camp will indicate how ready he is to be the team's Week 1 starter. 

"He's come a long way," head coach Bill O'Brien said in mid-June, per ESPN.com's Sarah Barshop. "He's in here all the time. There is no questioning this kid's work ethic. He's in here on the weekends. I wasn’t even here this past weekend, my kid was in here [and said], 'Hey, Dad, Deshaun was in there.'"

As long as the national championship-winning quarterback continues to show the same type of work ethic, he has a chance to become the Texans' starting quarterback sooner rather than later. 

Indianapolis Colts

When will Andrew Luck be able to throw?

Luck continues to recover from offseason shoulder surgery, and he's yet to even throw a football. According to Motus Global's Will Carroll, the quarterback has yet to throw overhand, and his rehabilitation is "focused on shoulder stability." 

Like any team with a talented quarterback, the Colts are dependent on their signal-caller. Luck's status will become an everyday conversation once the team reunites for training camp. But even if he misses multiple practices or preseason contents, the organization must remain patient. 

Eventually, Luck will return. However, the franchise needs to address where he stands. Until then, backup quarterback Scott Tolzien will take first-team reps and prepare himself like he's the starter. 

Jacksonville Jaguars

Has Blake Bortles improved?

Quarterbacks dominate the AFC South discussion, and the Jacksonville Jaguars may have the biggest question mark at the game's most important position. The Texans recently invested in a first-round pick in a quarterback. The Colts are waiting for Luck to get healthy. And the Tennessee Titans have Marcus Mariota to lead the way. 

In Jacksonville, Bortles' regression last season hampered the team. After throwing for 35 touchdowns in 2015, the former first-round pick couldn't build upon his sophomore campaign. His mechanics fell apart, which exacerbated concerns regarding his decision-making. 

"Honestly, nobody cares what you did the year before," veteran tight end Marcedes Lewis said during an interview on NFL Network (via Jags Wire's Jay Johnson). "It's all about what you're going to do this year. My job for [Bortles], from a psychological standpoint, is to keep his head up."

Expectations are a funny thing. When a highly regarded player doesn't produce to an expected level, he's vilified. One good season can change his entire perception, though. 

Tennessee Titans

Where do the new receivers fit? 

Unlike the other teams in the division, the Titans don't have problems at quarterback. Mariota is everything the franchise envisioned when it drafted the native Hawaiian. 

However, the offense lacked weapons at the skill positions to fully exploit Mariota's talent. Last season, Rishard Matthews, Tajae Sharpe, Kendall Wright and Harry Douglas served as the team's top four wide receivers. Wright is no longer with the Titans, while the rest have been pushed down the depth chart after the acquisitions of Corey Davis, Taywan Taylor and veteran Eric Decker. 

"I think our receiver group is young," Mariota said, per Jim Wyatt of the team's official site. "They have lots of talent, but to have a guy with the veteran presence that Eric can be for them is huge."

The 6'3" Decker is a large target with experience working out of the slot. After being the fifth overall pick, Davis is now the focal point of the passing game, but he'll have plenty of help, which should make Mariota smile.

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons

Who will start at right guard? 

The Falcons feature a loaded roster with plenty of young talent. For the most part, the team is set even before training camp begins. However, an intriguing position battle will commence at right guard after previous starter Chris Chester retired this offseason. 

Former sixth-round pick Wes Schweitzer or veteran Ben Garland are the leading candidates to replace Chester. 

"They've had a fantastic offseason," head coach Dan Quinn said during OTAs, per Kelsey Conway of the team's official site. "[When] we talk about guys who want to set it off, those two, not only have they set it off, their humility is such they work out together, they work on things together."

Neither is guaranteed the spot, though. Rookie Sean Harlow can play himself into the competition with a strong effort during his first training camp. 

Carolina Panthers

How will the coaching staff protect Cam Newton? 

The solution is simple: By getting the ball out of Newton's hand more quickly, he's less likely to take the type of punishment he's endured throughout his career. 

Draftees Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel will create multiple opportunities within the offense as runners and receivers. More importantly, both can serve as security blankets who excel at creating yardage after the catch. This means Newton won't have to stand in the pocket as long or rely as heavily on the vertical passing game. 

"That's something we want to continue to do," head coach Ron Rivera said during an interview on SiriusXM NFL Radio (via NFL.com's Conor Orr). "And yes, there are some things we want to do in terms of getting the ball out of Cam's hands and putting it the in hands of the playmakers."

The offensive line remains a concern, with Matt Kalil manning the blind side and Michael Oher's status still up in the air, but the coaching staff's ability to incorporate the team's new weapons can help ease the responsibilities placed on both the front five and Newton. 

New Orleans Saints

What role will Adrian Peterson play? 

Peterson is biding his time until he's inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He still has a chance to add to his already impressive resume. He'll do so with the New Orleans Saints after signing a two-year, $7 million deal. 

The 32-year-old still amazes his teammates even at an age when most running backs see their careers end. 

"I'm amazed, honestly," left tackle Terron Armstead said during OTAs, per ESPN.com's Mike Triplett. "Seeing him just take off, his first few steps are as explosive as I've ever seen by a human being. It's unbelievable. I'm very excited to see him when the pads come on."

With Mark Ingram already on the roster, head coach Sean Payton will have to adjust the Saints' offensive approach and backfield rotation. Even though Drew Brees is still taking the snaps, the Saints should lean far more on their ground game due to the talent at running back. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Who will be the kicker? 

For most organizations, a training-camp competition between kickers isn't a big deal. Then again, only the Buccaneers traded up to the second round of the 2015 NFL draft to select a kicker. 

Robert Aguayo didn't live up to expectations in 2016. The Florida State product converted only 71 percent of his attempts, including 4-of-11 beyond 40 yards. He missed a pair of extra points, too. 

Veteran Nick Folk will push Aguayo to become Tampa's kicker. 

"It's been close," head coach Dirk Koetter said during minicamp, per ESPN.com's Jenna Laine. "They've been going five kicks a day and usually it's one here or there. That's the difference though over the course of the year between an 85 percent kicker and a 74 percent kicker."

Right now, the Buccaneers' top option hasn't even proved he's a 74 percent kicker.