Paul RichardIntroduction
NFL training camps are more than just preseason warmups—they’re battlegrounds. While starters usually get the spotlight, the real drama often unfolds behind them. The backup players. The sleepers. The underdogs. Some of these backups could be one play away from stardom, and 2025 might just be the season they prove it.
Let’s dive into the world of NFL backups and highlight 6 backup players to watch in NFL training roster who are quietly fighting for their shot.
Why Backup Players Matter in the NFL
Depth and Durability
Injuries are inevitable. That’s just football. Having strong, reliable backups means your season doesn’t derail with one bad hit. Just ask the 2017 Eagles—Nick Foles stepped in and led them to a Super Bowl win.
Hidden Gems and Underdog Stories
Every year, someone rises from the practice squad or the third string and becomes a household name. Think of James Robinson in 2020 or Brock Purdy in 2022. Those breakout stars often begin as overlooked backups.
How to Identify Promising Backup Talent
Positional Opportunities
Backups at positions with injury-prone starters or unproven talent ahead of them often get unexpected chances. RBs, CBs, and QBs are prime spots for these sneaky surges.
Coaching Insight and Camp Reports
Don’t sleep on the camp buzz. Coaches drop subtle hints during pressers. Tracking insider coverage from outlets like Behind the Scenes or NFL Buzz can tip you off to rising players.
6 Backup Players to Watch in NFL Training Roster
1. Malik Cunningham – New England Patriots (QB/WR Hybrid)
Why He’s One to Watch
Cunningham is an electric dual-threat. While he’s technically listed as a QB, the Patriots have explored his potential as a wide receiver and gadget player. He’s shown flashes that scream Lamar Jackson-lite.
Challenges and Expectations
He’s raw and needs polish, but the Patriots are rebuilding and may get creative. His versatility could earn him a roster spot and even meaningful snaps if New England struggles offensively.
2. Israel Abanikanda – New York Jets (RB)
Strengths and Camp Buzz
This guy is lightning in cleats. With Breece Hall returning from injury, Abanikanda is making the most of extra reps. His explosiveness is turning heads at camp.
Room to Grow
If Hall isn’t 100%, Abanikanda could become a big part of the offense. He’s already on the Rookie Watch radar.
3. Kobie Turner – Los Angeles Rams (DT)
Disruption Potential
Turner has a high motor and excellent leverage. He’s been terrorizing O-lines during camp. Aaron Donald’s mentorship isn’t hurting, either.
Fit in Defensive Scheme
The Rams’ hybrid front allows for creative alignments. Turner could thrive in pass-rush situations and make an immediate rotational impact.
Check out his Positional Focus.
4. Kyle Trask – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (QB)
Opportunity Amidst Change
The Bucs are figuring out life post-Brady. Trask has shown growth this offseason and is neck-and-neck with the starter in camp reps.
Developmental Curve
While he’s still inconsistent, his arm strength and command are improving. If the Bucs’ starter falters, Trask could be next man up.
Follow more on Roster Breakdown.
5. Elijah Higgins – Miami Dolphins (TE)
Versatility and Athleticism
Converted from WR to TE, Higgins brings elite speed and hands to the tight end position. That combo is rare and deadly.
How He Could Shine
The Dolphins love multi-use weapons. If he nails blocking assignments, Higgins could carve out a real role.
Peek into the Coaching Tools section to see how players like him are developed.
6. Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson – LA Rams (CB)
Underdog Talent
Despite his size, this guy plays with heart. He’s been breaking up passes and earning praise. A true underdog story.
Nickel Slot Impact
The Rams need help in the secondary. Hodges-Tomlinson has the quickness to be an impact nickel corner. His value could skyrocket.
Don’t miss his spot on Undrafted Free Agents.
Behind the Scenes of NFL Training Roster Decisions
Coach Evaluations and Analytics
Roster cuts are brutal. Coaches use everything from film to performance trackers to decide who stays. It’s more than just stats—it’s effort, attitude, and how players respond to coaching.
Real-Time Performance Monitoring
Modern camps use GPS trackers, heart-rate monitors, and advanced performance monitoring tools to assess players beyond the eye test.
The Role of Analytics in Spotting Backup Stars
Data is king. Backup players often flash elite metrics—speed, catch radius, acceleration—that help analysts flag breakout potential. The Analytics section offers deep dives into how these numbers matter.
How Fans Can Follow Backup Breakouts
Fan Tips for Training Camp Insights
Look beyond mainstream headlines. Sites like Fan Insight give raw, boots-on-the-ground info that shows who’s truly performing.
Rookie Watch and Undrafted Free Agent Reports
Tracking rookies and young players gives you a front-row seat to tomorrow’s stars today.
Final Thoughts: Backups Today, Stars Tomorrow
Backups are more than just insurance policies—they’re future game-changers. Keep your eye on the 6 names above. One of them might just be your next fantasy sleeper or your team’s secret weapon.
FAQs
1. Why are backup players important in the NFL?
They offer depth, step in during injuries, and sometimes outperform starters when given a chance.
2. How can fans track backup player performance?
Follow training camp reports, insider blogs, and platforms like NFL Camp Guide.
3. What positions are best for backup breakouts?
RBs, WRs, QBs, and CBs tend to offer more opportunities due to injury and rotation.
4. Are there any backup QBs worth drafting in fantasy?
Kyle Trask could be a deep sleeper if he wins the job or gets a midseason chance.
5. Which backup RB should I watch this season?
Israel Abanikanda of the Jets is turning heads with his speed and vision.
6. Can backup players become Pro Bowlers?
Absolutely. Many stars—like Tony Romo and Kurt Warner—started as backups.
7. Where can I read more on player development?
Check NFL Insights and Common Errors to learn how players improve through camp.