Fans celebrates as new Atlanta Falcons NFL Training Camp opens.

The history of NFL training camps reflects the evolution of professional football in the U.S., starting from the early 20th century when teams first gathered in remote locations to focus solely on football.

Initially aimed at conditioning and evaluating talent, these camps have grown more sophisticated over the decades, especially from the 1960s and 1970s with increased specialization, and the 1980s and 1990s with free agency and sports science advancements.

A tragic incident in 2001, the death of Vikings lineman Korey Stringer, led to significant safety improvements, including heat illness prevention measures. Recent collective bargaining agreements have further enhanced player safety by limiting camp duration and contact practices.

Today, training camps are major fan events, open to the public for watching practices and engaging with players.

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