The NFL preseason is upon us, and while some may dismiss it as meaningless, there are several intriguing storylines to watch. The return of the fullback is one such narrative, as teams experiment with this position, which has seen a decline in recent years. Coaches are exploring the potential of fullbacks to contribute on special teams and help offensive lines, as evidenced by the Bengals' and Vikings' recent maneuvers. The preseason could reveal how many fullbacks will make the active roster. Another topic of interest is the new challenge flag process, which adds an extra layer of complexity to an already efficient system. Coaches are likely experimenting with this during the preseason, and it could impact the season's game management. The offensive line depth is also a critical area to monitor, with many teams already scraping level-two depth. Rookies and high-end backups will play a significant role in defining the preseason, and the performance of these players will be crucial. The Giants' red zone offense is another storyline to watch, with a focus on their new offensive scheme and the potential for a veteran signing or trade. The debuts of new coaches, such as Jesse Minter and Jim Leonhard, will also be significant, as their defensive strategies could impact the teams' chances of reaching the Super Bowl. Lastly, quarterback reps and the potential for a philosophical shift in how signal-callers are utilized during the preseason is an intriguing development, especially with the involvement of Super Bowl-winning coaches.
