NFL minicamp recap: Standout rookies, scheme fits and early red flags

Mandatory minicamps recently wrapped up across the NFL, giving teams their final structured practices before a well-needed break ahead of training camp in July. 

These sessions offered the first look at rookies, new schemes, the installation of new plays and emerging concerns heading into the 2026 season. 

Here’s a breakdown of the biggest takeaways from the 2026 minicamps:

Standout rookies

Fernando Mendoza, QB, Las Vegas Raiders

The first overall pick seems to be the perfect fit for Klint Kubiak’s offense, excelling on intermediate throws over the middle, working play action, and flashing flawless mechanics. "He's gotten a ton better," Raiders coach Klint Kubiak said. Mendoza remains behind veteran Kirk Cousins for now, but he is the future.

Caleb Downs, S, Dallas Cowboys

The versatile defensive back turned heads and fit seamlessly into the Cowboys’ revamped secondary under new defensive coordinator Christian Parker. He rotated between safety spots and nickel packages, showing comfort in both man coverage and zone coverage. He's likely to be in the league for a long time. 

Kyle Louis, LB, Miami Dolphins

Louis stood out with highlight-reel plays, including interceptions in team periods. He's versatile as he can play in the box, slot or even on the edge. He’s already rotating into multiple defensive packages under the new staff, demonstrating his leadership.

Jager Burton, OL, Green Bay Packers

Burton earned first-team reps and looked like a potential steal early on. He rotated in with the first-team offense at both left and right guard. He’s taken advantage of veteran absences/injuries as he looks comfortable in the scheme. If he continues over training camp, the Packers could have a rookie starting on opening day. 

Scheme fits

Raiders under Kubiak

Heavy emphasis on Mendoza’s strengths, including crossing routes, in-breaking routes, and rhythm throws. The scheme appears tailored for his college production. For Cousins, he has looked like he's been there under Kubiak for a long time. He's in rhythm and looking ready to go. 

Philadelphia Eagles offensive shifts

The Eagles have added more snaps under center, outside zone runs and play action as new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion makes his mark. Veterans such as Saquon Barkley reported improved downhill vision. 

Minnesota Vikings defense humming

Brian Flores' unit in Minnesota looked like it was in mid-season form despite having multiple young pieces. They have improved communication, front-seven physicality and creative blitz packages. Corners and safeties competed fiercely in 7-on-7s.

Early red flags

Injury and availability issues

Bo Nix (Broncos) remained limited due to surgeries but is expected back for training camp. Michael Penix Jr. (Falcons) hasn’t been cleared for full 11-on-11 work in his quarterback competition. Ladd McConkey (Los Angeles Chargers) dealt with a hamstring strain. Makai Lemon’s leg injury adds caution.

Rookie struggles

Bills rookie wide receiver Skyler Bell dropped a few passes during sessions, prompting the coordinator's intervention. Early drops are common but noted as a point of focus. 

Multiple Cowboys rookies struggled with conditioning drills, leading to vomiting during practice. Coaches noted they weren’t yet in peak NFL shape.

What to expect moving forward

Defenses appear to have the edge in installs for several organizations, while offenses are emphasizing physicality and versatility. Rookies are trending positively overall, but durability and scheme mastery will separate the immediate contributors from the projects. 

Training camps open in late July, where pads come on, and these impressions turn into roster decisions. Expect depth battles to intensify, injuries to be managed carefully, and a few more veterans to push for playing time.