.AlbertBreer’s MAQB: 💥 The evolution of offseason workouts 💥 Why Dak Prescott could have a big 2022 💥 How Denzel Ward’s deal affects Browns, other CBs 💥 How Desmond Ridder affected Luke Fickell 💥 Why Stephon Gilmore chose Colts 💥 More
Prescott: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports; Ward: Evan Habeeb/USA TODAY Sports; Gilmore: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
You’ll remember back 11 months ago there was a fight over protocols, and the feel and form of the offseason program between players and their teams. Over time, most worked out agreements for players to come in. The Bucs basically set up two sets of OTAs—one for veterans directed by Tom Brady, and another for young, developmental types led by coaches. The Eagles scrapped all 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 work, and canceled their mandatory minicamp. The Dolphins had players wear flip-flops for walkthroughs.
It’s hard to say whether or not it worked, after just one year. But both the Bengals and Rams worked with their players last year, and altered their offseason programs, and made the Super Bowl in the aftermath . So at the very least, there wasn’t any big immediate detriment. What’s the upshot of all this? Well, I think it’s good that everyone is looking at these things a little more critically. Also, it’s obvious that while every player may need parts of the offseason program, the needs of a rookie or second-year player aren’t the same as what a 10-year vet might want to get out of it.