The NFL's mandatory minicamp is upon us, and with it, a host of players with something to prove. From quarterbacks fighting for their starting jobs to wide receivers trying to secure their spot in the lineup, every workout is critical for these athletes. Here's a look at eight players with the most to gain (or lose) at this year's minicamp.
1. J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings
J.J. McCarthy's second season in the NFL was a struggle, to say the least. After missing his entire rookie year, he was uneven in 2025, completing less than 58% of his passes and throwing 12 interceptions. Some pundits are already writing off his chances of starting for the Vikings, but McCarthy has shown improvement in OTAs. With Carson Wentz also on the roster, McCarthy's future is uncertain. He must impress during mandatory minicamp to keep his spot on the roster, let alone the starting job.
2. Keon Coleman, Buffalo Bills
Keon Coleman's rookie season in Buffalo was a disappointment, to say the least. After being drafted in the first round, he struggled to make an impact, catching just 38 passes and averaging less than 11 yards per catch. With the Bills trading for D.J. Moore, Coleman faces an even tougher battle to secure his spot in the lineup. If he doesn't shine during minicamp, he may not even make it through his rookie contract in Buffalo.
3. Kayvon Thibodeaux, New York Giants
Kayvon Thibodeaux was supposed to be a superstar when the Giants drafted him fifth overall in 2022. However, injuries and inconsistent play have left him fighting for his NFL future. With Brian Burns earning a hefty contract and the Giants drafting Abdul Carter and Arvell Reese, Thibodeaux must impress during minicamp to keep his starting job. Otherwise, he may find himself at the back end of the pass-rush rotation or looking for a new team in 2027.
4. Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns
Deshaun Watson's time in Cleveland has been a disaster, to say the least. After the Browns gave up three first-round picks and a hefty contract for him, he has only started 19 games and thrown for 3,365 yards. With Myles Garrett gone and Shedeur Sanders waiting in the wings, Watson must win the starting job during minicamp. Otherwise, he may find himself playing elsewhere in 2027.
5. Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals
Marvin Harrison Jr. was drafted fourth overall in 2024 with high expectations. However, his rookie season was a struggle, missing five games and catching just 41 passes. With Michael Wilson emerging as Arizona's No. 1 wide receiver, Harrison must show he's an 'alpha' during minicamp. Otherwise, next offseason could get awkward if the Cardinals choose not to extend him.
6. Myles Murphy, Cincinnati Bengals
Myles Murphy was a key addition to the Bengals' defense last year, but he must impress during minicamp to keep his starting job. With the team investing heavily in the defensive line, Murphy faces competition from Shemar Stewart. If he loses the starting job, he may not land a hefty contract next year. Every rep counts for Murphy as he battles to secure his future in Cincinnati.
7. Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers
Ricky Pearsall's rookie season in San Francisco was cut short by a knee injury, and last year he struggled to make an impact. With the 49ers adding Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, Pearsall faces an uphill battle to secure his spot in the lineup. If he can't lock down a starting spot during minicamp, there's no chance the team will pick up his fifth-year option.
8. Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta Falcons
Michael Penix Jr. is fighting for his starting job in Atlanta, but he may not even be on the field for mandatory minicamp. With Tua Tagovailoa waiting in the wings, Penix must impress during minicamp to keep his spot. Otherwise, he may find himself on the sidelines, watching Tagovailoa lead the offense.
These players have the most to gain (or lose) at mandatory minicamp. Every rep counts, and every workout is critical for their futures in the NFL. Will they step up and prove their worth? Only time will tell.
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