NFL Hotspots: Potential Controversies

More T.O. Turmoil

In case you haven't watched any sports television in the last week, there's trouble brewing in the Big D. Terrell Owens' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said the star receiver's hamstring injury is worse than people think. Meanwhile, the Cowboys seem to want T.O. on the field. Keep a close eye on his health as the preseason continues.

Saints Running Back Controversy

Deuce McAllister was scheduled to make his preseason debut Monday night against the Cowboys. The sixth-year running back is recovering from knee surgery and admits he's not 100 percent yet. Reggie Bush has already shown his dazzling skills, highlighted by a 44-yard scamper against the Titans last week. If McAllister doesn't look explosive, the Saints might move Bush to No. 1 on the depth chart.

Cardinals Can't Run

The Cardinals are handing Edgerrin James a lot of guaranteed money (more than $14 million this year), but there's been no sign of a strong running game this preseason; James has run for three yards on four carries. This offense ranked No. 32 in rushing last season and looks nowhere near close to jelling on the line, so it's hard to imagine Edge will be able to deliver his typical numbers.

Titans QB Controversy

Although Billy Volek hasn't been impressive in preseason, it appears his starting job is safe for the time being. But the Titans appear to be interested in working rookie Vince Young (pictured) into games immediately. Considering Tennesse might be a bad team from the start, coach Jeff Fisher might go with Young full time early in the season.

Chiefs' Offense Stalls

Kansas City's offense is having trouble adjusting to new coach Herm Edwards' ball-control style. It was shut out 17-0 by the Giants on Aug. 17, and there are major questions on the offensive line. The Chiefs haven't been able to talk perennial Pro Bowler Willie Roaf out of retirement, and All-Pro Will Shields is out with a high ankle sprain. This could mean trouble for K.C. fans and everyone who drafted Larry Johnson (pictured) No. 1 in their fantasy draft.

Palmer's Impatient

Carson Palmer feels like he's back after a grueling rehabilitation from knee surgery, but the Bengals have been cautious -- too cautious for Palmer. Now teammates are reportedly wondering why the franchise quarterback isn't seeing more action. Keep an eye on this one as Week 1 approaches.

Broncos' Backfield

Some think that coach Mike Shanahan named Mike Bell (pictured) the first-string running back as motivation for veterans Ron Dayne and Tatum Bell. But Mike Bell looked impressive on Saturday, gaining 73 yards on 10 carries. Now the undrafted free agent out of Arizona has to avoid chronic fumbling to hold on to the job. Dayne has apparently gone from starter to the odd man out in a hurry.

Redskins QB Controversy

To say that Jason Campbell is challenging Mark Brunell seems like a stretch, considering Campbell faces a tough battle with Todd Collins to win the No. 2 job. But since the Redskins laid an egg in their 27-13 loss to the Jets on Saturday, don't be surprised if the calls for Campbell get louder in a town that loves QB controversies as much as it loves political debates.

Vikings WR Situation

With Koren Robinson's future in doubt after a drunken-driving arrest, the Vikings need a No. 1 receiver. Last year's first-round draft pick, Troy Williamson (pictured), is the top candidate, but he caught only 24 balls for 372 yards and two TDs last year. Veterans Travis Taylor and Marcus Robinson will be expected to step up as well.