The midpoint of the 2024 NFL preseason offers a critical juncture for teams and players alike, serving as a de facto dress rehearsal for many clubs. This week has witnessed intense joint practices, revealing much about the competitions happening across the league.
Patriots' Quarterback Battle
The New England Patriots find themselves in the throes of a quarterback battle between Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye. The decision on who will lead the offense is further complicated by the team's lack of skill position players and a subpar offensive line. As an insider noted, "The Patriots will have a decision to make who will quarterback this rebuilding offense that has little skill position players and a subpar offensive line." This uncertainty is a pivotal storyline for the Patriots' preseason.
Falcons' Quarterback Dynamics
In Atlanta, Kirk Cousins holds the starting quarterback spot, but Michael Penix Jr. is making a case for himself. In his preseason debut, Penix completed 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards, earning a passer rating of 76.0 and leading the Falcons to 10 points over five possessions. His performance indicates that the Falcons have depth at the quarterback position, which could prove beneficial as the season progresses.
Rookies Making an Impact
The Chicago Bears are keenly focused on developing their rookie quarterback, Caleb Williams. Williams impressed in his preseason opener, completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards, resulting in a passer rating of 101.8. Despite limited playing time, he guided the Bears to six points over two possessions. An analyst pointed out, "Let’s see how long Williams plays against the Bengals, but it will be vital for the Bears to get their rookie quarterback those live game reps." These early glimpses suggest that Williams could quickly become a centerpiece for the Bears' offense.
Giants' and Chiefs' WR Challenges
Malik Nabers of the New York Giants suffered an ankle injury in the team's preseason opener, complicating matters for their already competitive wide receiver group. Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson are vying for the WR2 position behind established players Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins.
Similarly, the Kansas City Chiefs face their own wide receiver dilemmas. Hollywood Brown is dealing with a shoulder injury, which places additional pressure on rookie Xavier Worthy to step up. With Rashee Rice potentially facing suspension, Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross are also in contention for significant roles. This wide receiver shuffle in Kansas City could impact the Chiefs' potent offense.
Running Backs in the Spotlight
The Tennessee Titans have bolstered their running back corps with Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. In the preseason opener, Spears found the end zone, while Pollard showcased his explosive capability with a 24-yard run. The duo combined for 37 yards on seven carries, offering flashes of potential that could make the Titans' running game a formidable aspect of their offense.
Dolphins' Backup QB Battle
The Miami Dolphins are seeing a tight competition for the backup quarterback position. Skylar Thompson finished 8 of 19 for 95 yards with a touchdown and an interception in his preseason debut, while Mike White struggled, completing only 4 of 14 passes for 26 yards, primarily against second- and third-team players. This battle may go down to the first week of the regular season before head coach Antonio Pierce names a starter, as a source indicated.
Vikings' Preseason Developments
In Minnesota, Jordan Addison managed to avoid a serious injury, much to the relief of the Vikings. With Justin Jefferson expected to have limited snaps this preseason, other receivers like Trishton Jackson, who accumulated 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown last week, have stepped up. This depth will be crucial for the Vikings as they navigate the early part of the season.
49ers' Injury Concerns
For the San Francisco 49ers, wide receiver Ricky Pearsall's hamstring and shoulder problems during training camp have been a concern. The team will need him healthy to provide another reliable target in their aerial attack.
Broncos' Quarterback Performances
The Denver Broncos are evaluating their quarterback situation as well. Bo Nix had an efficient showing, completing 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with a touchdown in the preseason opener. On the other hand, Jarrett Stidham struggled, completing only 4 of 7 passes for 37 yards with an interception. These performances could influence the Broncos' depth chart moving forward.
As the preseason progresses, each team's decisions and adjustments will significantly shape their prospects for the regular season. The next few weeks will be crucial for final evaluations, as players continue to make their cases for starting roles and roster spots.