• Observers at the Chiefs' minicamp believe this could be a tough season for many of the defensive players who will be switching positions in the team's new 3-4 scheme. That includes Glenn Dorsey, who'll be moving from tackle to end, and both Tamba Hali and Turk McBride, who will switch from D-ends to linebackers. Each of these three struggled in practice learning his new position, and it could be some time before the group feels comfortable in the 3-4. Because of insufficient depth across the board, both Dorsey and Hali are likely entrenched as starters, regardless of the amount of progress they make by Week One.

• When the Dolphins signed Cardinals castoff Eric Green, he appeared to be the obvious choice to plug into the starting lineup opposite entrenched starting CB Will Allen. But he was far from impressive in the spring, whereas rookie Sean Smith drew strong reviews. Rookie Vontae Davis is also very much in the picture.

• Lacking much pop in their punting game in recent seasons, the Patriots are keeping an open mind regarding the position heading into camp. As it stands now, incumbent Chris Hanson will face competition from Tom Malone, but it's realistic to think a current outsider could be granted an invite and win the job.

• The way we hear it, it would be a major surprise if second-year pro Tarvares Gooden wasn't starting next to Ray Lewis at inside linebacker in the Ravens' 3-4 scheme. A source close to the club notes that Jameel McClain is the fallback option, but the hope is that Gooden takes the job and runs with it.

• While Ravens rookie CB Lardarius Webb has the potential to contribute on returns as a rookie, we're hearing it's unlikely he'll have much of an impact on defense, with the Ravens likely to slowly work him into the secondary, what with strong veteran depth at cornerback.

• Playing time behind Texans starting RB Steve Slaton is definitely for the taking, and the roster spots on the depth chart behind him are in flux, so it's notable that undrafted rookie Arian Foster had a good offseason. Foster, who struggled to stay healthy at Tennessee, does boast good straight-line speed, and the Texans like backs who hit the hole quickly and get up the field.

• Jaguars third-round CB Derek Cox didn't do anything in the spring to make the club second-guess its selection of him, which was widely criticized outside the organization. He has looked fluid in coverage and figures to compete for serious time in the secondary, and he will also give Brian Witherspoon a run for his money in the return game.

Kickoff is coming! Be sure to buy copies of the Pro Football Weekly/Yahoo! Sports 2009 NFL preview magazine, as well as the Pro Football Weekly/Yahoo! Sports Fantasy Football Guide 2009, both of which are now available at bookstores, newsstands and retail outlets where magazines are sold. Or order your copies online at PFWStore.com.