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NFL offseason programs begin with Chargers, Bills

By Justin Grasso

Sep 15, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Ronald Darby (28) before a game against the New York Jets at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2016; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Ronald Darby (28) before a game against the New York Jets at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /
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Its that time of year again! NFL teams are starting to regroup and getting back in shape for training camp this summer.

The Los Angeles Chargers and Buffalo Bills are the first teams to start their offseason programs, since they hired new coaches after the 2016 season.

Starting workouts early in the year helps the team and new head coach get acquainted with each other. These workouts are not mandatory and do not contain any actual contact. The purpose is to have players regroup and get back into football shape while working with their new coaching staff. The NFL allowed for teams to start workouts early for teams with new head coaches only.

The Chargers are starting a new chapter this season with former Bills’ offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn. Lynn is known for his heavy running style. He helped superstar running back LeSean McCcoy rank sixth in the NFL for rushing last year in Buffalo. Expect a heavy workload for LA’s Melvin Gordon, who had a decent season last year with 997 yards on 254 attempts.

The Bills took a different approach with their hiring of head coach Sean McDermott. McDermott is known for coaching defense, being the defensive coordinator in Philadelphia and most-recently, Carolina. In 2015, he helped coach the Panthers to Super Bowl 50. They were led their by a dominant defense featuring Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis.

The Jacksonville Jaguars also have a new head coach this season but will not begin workouts until next Monday. Since Doug Marrone was the interim coach and coached them for two games (1-1) the NFL concluded they should not be eligible to start workouts early.

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A few other teams have announced that they will begin offseason workouts next Monday. These teams include the 49ers, Rams and Broncos. Other teams will be announcing workout dates shortly.

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