Entering training camp, there were certain roster and position battles we expected. Now two weeks into camp, there are a few positions where there are legitimate battles for the starting job.
How do we know? It is based on the splitting of first-team snaps.
Which starting jobs are actually up for grabs right now?
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Defensive line
This group is the toughest to read right now because so many players are getting first-team reps. Jonathan Ledbetter, Rashard Lawrence, Leki Fotu, Kevin Strong, Carlos Watkins and L.J. Collier all had first-team snaps on Saturday.
Inside linebacker
Josh Woods and Krys Barnes have been alternating series with the first-team defense alongside Kyzir White.
Cornerback
Second-year cornerback Christian Matthew and rookie Kei’Trel Clark have both been getting regular first-team work opposite Marco Wilson. On Saturday, Matthew was the first with the first team and then they alternated series.
Punter
When Matt Haack was signed in May, it felt like he was the favorite to be the punter, but Nolan Cooney is making it interesting.
Both split the holding duties on Saturday when Matt Prater was kicking field goals. Cooney is taking kickoff reps with Prater, something Haack does not do.
This battle is closer than anyone thought it would be.
