NFL Offseason Programs Begin for Teams with New Head Coaches

As the NFL gears up for the 2026 season, ten teams with new head coaches are commencing their voluntary offseason workout programs. The Baltimore Ravens kicked off their program on April 6, 2026, while the remaining nine teams—Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tennessee Titans—will begin on April 7, 2026. This early start is part of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that allows teams with new head coaches to initiate their offseason activities before others.

Ravens new regime, Lamar Jackson are both getting off on the right foot as 2026 offseason workout program opens in BaltimoreUSA TodayNFL releases Chiefs' offseason workout, OTAs, minicamp dates

The offseason program is structured into phases, with Phase One focusing on meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation. This phase lasts for the first two weeks, setting the groundwork for the teams' future strategies. Robert Saleh, the newly appointed head coach of the Tennessee Titans, emphasized the importance of this foundational period, stating, "It's really just setting the foundation... introduce our schemes, introduce the expectations as coaches and as players."

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In Tennessee, Saleh has already made significant changes, bringing in 21 free agents and two trades to reshape the roster. He expressed enthusiasm about welcoming players to the facility, highlighting the importance of this initial phase in building team chemistry and understanding new systems. Similarly, the Ravens are also navigating changes under new head coach Jesse Minter, with quarterback Lamar Jackson participating in workouts despite ongoing contract negotiations.

Ravens new regime, Lamar Jackson are both getting off on the right foot as 2026 offseason workout program opens in Baltimore

Saleh expressed his eagerness for the offseason, stating, "Can't wait... we miss our players and we're looking forward to seeing them." Meanwhile, the Ravens' organization is optimistic about Jackson's involvement, which they believe will foster a positive environment as they work towards a new contract. Team owner Steve Bisciotti has acknowledged the priority of finalizing Jackson's contract, which remains a significant topic of discussion.

Ravens new regime, Lamar Jackson are both getting off on the right foot as 2026 offseason workout program opens in Baltimore

While the early start to offseason programs is beneficial for teams with new coaching staff, some critics argue that the voluntary nature of these workouts may not be sufficient for building a cohesive team. Concerns have been raised about whether players will fully engage in these voluntary sessions, especially when contract negotiations are ongoing, as seen with Jackson.

Following the initial two weeks of Phase One, teams will transition into further phases of their offseason programs, including organized team activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamps. These sessions will provide additional opportunities for players to familiarize themselves with new schemes and expectations as they prepare for the upcoming season.

NFL releases Chiefs' offseason workout, OTAs, minicamp dates

• "It's really just setting the foundation." — Robert Saleh, Head Coach, Tennessee Titans

• "Can't wait... we miss our players and we're looking forward to seeing them." — Robert Saleh, Head Coach, Tennessee Titans

• "This is just the first step by all parties in Baltimore." — Analyst, on Lamar Jackson's participation in workouts.

Ravens new regime, Lamar Jackson are both getting off on the right foot as 2026 offseason workout program opens in Baltimore