The NFL offseason is in full swing, and Organized Team Activities (OTAs) are kicking off across the league. While technically voluntary, these next few months are anything but casual. Teams are installing new schemes, rookies are getting their first real taste of the pro game, and new coaching staffs are racing against the clock before training camp arrives.
Here are the top 10 storylines we’re keeping an eye on as OTAs get underway.
1. A Fresh Start for 10 New Head Coaches
Every new head coach faces a mountain of work in May and June—establishing culture, installing playbooks, and building trust. Most of these hires won’t be leading a Super Bowl contender right away, but Joe Brady in Buffalo is a notable exception. Having already served as the Bills’ offensive coordinator, his transition should be smoother than most.
2. Baltimore’s New Look Under Zach Orr
The Ravens are a fascinating case. They’re bringing in a brand-new defensive coordinator in Zach Orr, while new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle will be tasked with building around Lamar Jackson. Jackson, who has sometimes skipped voluntary workouts in the past, showed up early this year—a great sign for team chemistry. The Ravens are retooling on the fly, but they still look like contenders.
3. Ty Simpson and the Rams’ Quarterback Carousel
The Rams created an awkward dynamic when they drafted Ty Simpson 13th overall. Matthew Stafford is still the man in L.A., but the team is clearly planning for the future. How Stafford handles his role as a mentor—and how Sean McVay balances winning now with developing a rookie—will be one of the biggest storylines of OTAs. It’s a delicate dance, and it could get noisy.
4. Patrick Mahomes’ Recovery Timeline
After tearing his ACL in December, the Chiefs are taking a cautious approach with their superstar quarterback. Coach Andy Reid hasn’t ruled out Mahomes participating in OTAs, but it feels like a long shot. Still, any glimpse of Mahomes on the field this spring would be a massive boost for Kansas City fans.
5. The Cowboys and 49ers: New Looks, Same Expectations
Dallas and San Francisco are both sporting fresh looks this spring. The Cowboys are working in new pieces on both sides of the ball, while the 49ers are adjusting after some key departures. OTAs will be the first real test of how these retooled rosters start to gel.
6. Rookie Quarterbacks Adjusting to the Speed
Beyond Simpson, this year’s rookie QB class is under the microscope. From C.J. Stroud to Anthony Richardson, every first-year signal-caller is trying to prove they belong. OTAs offer the first chance to see how their skills translate against NFL-caliber defenses.
7. New Coordinators Making Their Mark
It’s not just the head coaches. Several teams have brought in new offensive and defensive coordinators, and their systems are being tested for the first time. Watch for teams like the Chargers and Bears, where new play-callers are expected to make an immediate impact.
8. Veteran Workouts and Roster Battles
OTAs are also where roster battles begin. From wide receiver competitions to offensive line shuffles, every rep matters. Keep an eye on teams with deep draft classes—those rookies are hungry to steal jobs from veterans.
9. Injury Rehabs and Return Timelines
Several stars are working their way back from injuries, and OTAs will offer the first real update on their progress. Whether it’s Mahomes, Breece Hall, or others, how these players look in spring workouts could set the tone for their entire season.
10. The Business of Football: Contract Talks and Holdouts
Finally, OTAs often serve as a backdrop for contract negotiations. Will any star players hold out? Who’s looking for a new deal? These storylines can shift the balance of power in a division, and we’ll be tracking every move.
As the NFL gears up for another thrilling season, OTAs are where the foundation is laid. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting ready for training camp, this is the time to start paying attention. And if you’re looking to gear up for the season ahead, there’s no better time to refresh your game-day wardrobe. From team jerseys to training gear, we’ve got you covered for every snap of OTAs and beyond.