Another week brings another round of NFL preseason action. The competitive atmosphere around the league is palpable, whether it’s the fight for roster positions or the build-up to the official games kicking off soon. Which players and teams made a significant impression during the Week 2 exhibition matchups?
Here are some of the key highlights:
Packers end shutout with safety on Zach Wilson
For nearly three quarters, the Green Bay Packers were scoreless in their preseason game against the Denver Broncos. With under a minute remaining in the third quarter, defensive end Zach Morton managed to tackle Zach Wilson in the end zone, scoring a safety and finally getting Green Bay on the scoreboard.
Josh Dobbs remains uncontainable
The Saints struggled to contain Josh Dobbs during San Francisco’s final drive of the first half. Executing a two-minute drill, Dobbs led an impressive touchdown drive that put the Niners ahead at halftime. The standout moment of that series occurred on a first-and-10 play at midfield, where Dobbs skillfully escaped multiple tackles to secure a new set of downs.
The veteran later capped off the drive with a 1-yard touchdown run.
Stidham powers through
The quarterback competition for the Denver Broncos is intensifying, with several players delivering noteworthy performances on Sunday night. Jarrett Stidham, who replaced rookie Bo Nix, showcased his physicality with a 9-yard touchdown run in the closing moments of the first half. Stidham boldly took a third-and-5 scramble along the right sideline, bulldozing a Packers defender as he charged into the end zone.
Bo Nix remains focused in QB1 race
Bo Nix is living up to his first-round expectations this summer, as his performance continues to shine in Denver’s Week 2 preseason matchup against Green Bay. As he competes for the starting job, Nix opened the game by completing 8 of 9 passes for 80 yards, highlighted by a goal-line touchdown to Tim Patrick.
Cowboys’ Aubrey makes unofficial history
While preseason stats don’t contribute to the NFL record books, that doesn’t discourage Brandon Aubrey, the burgeoning Pro Bowl kicker. After a debut season boasting a league-leading 36 field goal conversions, the former MLS draft pick launched a remarkable 66-yard attempt to finish the first half for Dallas, unofficially matching the all-time record set by Baltimore Ravens standout Justin Tucker in 2021. It likely would have been good from even greater distances!
Tre Tucker displays incredible speed
Las Vegas may have mixed feelings about the pace of their quarterback competition, but the Raiders can find comfort in Tre Tucker’s impressive speed this preseason. The 2023 third-round pick exploded with a 40-plus yard punt return, in addition to catching a deep pass.
Gardner Minshew took the helm for Las Vegas against Dallas, following Aidan O’Connell’s starting role in Week 1. With head coach Antonio Pierce observing (eager to identify a frontrunner in the competition), the veteran launched an early deep pass to Tre Tucker. Unfortunately for Minshew, this highlight was not indicative of his overall performance, as he completed only 10 of 21 passes for 95 yards and managed just three points during his time on the field.
Meanwhile, Fields did not start for the Pittsburgh Steelers against Buffalo; that distinction went to Russell Wilson, who faced three sacks in his goalless live-action debut in black and yellow. In contrast, Fields electrified the game, notably dodging a certain sack while delivering a precise sideline completion.
He also struggled at times, missing a wide-open opportunity for a deep touchdown and succumbing to the relentless pressure of the Bills defense during a late red-zone read option. It’s clear that the competition for the Steelers’ quarterback position remains open … and worrisome.
Mac Jones soaking up the Florida sun
The former New England Patriots starter seems quite comfortable with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Just a week after completing 9 of 11 passes in his debut wearing new NFL colors, Jones delivered a perfectly thrown touchdown on a crucial third-and-long play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, strengthening his case to become the top backup for Trevor Lawrence this season.
Rams rookie makes diving interception
After going undrafted from Tennessee this spring, Jaylen McCollough found himself in the right position against the Los Angeles Chargers, making a leaping interception of Easton Stick in the Los Angeles Rams’ secondary. Meanwhile, the Chargers might be considering adding additional quarterback protection.
Tagovailoa’s precision passing remains intact
With all that investment, Tua Tagovailoa has not lost his remarkable ability to thread the needle. Shortly after skillfully side-arming a pass to evade pressure, the Miami Dolphins’ newly compensated quarterback threw a stunning touchdown to River Cracraft against the Washington Commanders. What a beautiful throw!
Vikings QBs make strides after McCarthy injury
Despite the cloud hanging over Minnesota with first-round pick J.J. McCarthy sidelined for the season, backups Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall each delivered some impressive touchdown passes against the Cleveland Browns, while crucially taking care of the football. Mullens’ dart in the red zone was especially encouraging.
No “Hollywood” Brown out wide? Not an issue for Kansas City against the Detroit Lions, as Worthy consistently torched the secondary, showcasing the deep speed that earned him a first-round selection this spring. After catching a laser from Patrick Mahomes, he also pulled in a long touchdown reception from Carson Wentz.
Mahomes pulls off a behind-the-back pass
Has there ever been a more Kansas City Chiefs-esque preseason headline? With star tight end Travis Kelce seemingly running the wrong route, Patrick Mahomes creatively improvised by executing a behind-the-back dump-off to his favorite target—a move he had yet to display in a game setting. Keep an eye out to see if Mahomes and Kelce recreate their backyard antics during the regular season.
Indeed, it’s preseason. Yet, it’s hard not to feel the electric excitement of Chicago Bears fans as they watch Williams take his first live-action NFL snaps. Following a week where he showed off his powerful arm, the No. 1 pick was even flashier against the Cincinnati Bengals, thriving as a master of extending plays.
Jones stumbles in first Giants action of 2024
Making his live-action return after tearing his ACL last season, Daniel Jones didn’t instill much confidence for New York, scrambling to evade a safety early against the Houston Texans, only to throw a straightforward pick-six to Jalen Pitre. A second interception would follow just one series later.
Eagles’ McKee makes his case for QB2 job
Although Tanner McKee is officially Philadelphia’s third-string quarterback behind offseason trade acquisition Kenny Pickett, the eye test decidedly favored McKee after a composed performance against the New England Patriots on Thursday, where the 2023 sixth-round draft choice consistently made tight throws to the sidelines.
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Week 2 NFL Preseason Highlights: Players to Watch as Roster Battles Intensify
Key Takeaways from Week 2 Preseason Games
As NFL teams gear up for the regular season, Week 2 of the preseason has showcased intense roster battles and standout performances. Coaches are evaluating players for critical positions, and fans are eager to see who will emerge as key contributors. Here are some significant highlights and players to watch from Week 2 of the NFL preseason.
Top Players to Watch
- Jordan Love (QB, Green Bay Packers)
- Impressive decision-making and mobility.
- Led a touchdown drive against the New England Patriots.
- Critical for his development as a starting quarterback.
- Kenny Pickett (QB, Pittsburgh Steelers)
- Showed poise under pressure.
- Connected with multiple receivers, demonstrating his versatility.
- Key player in securing a competitive edge for the Steelers.
- James Cook (RB, Buffalo Bills)
- Highlighted his speed and agility in the backfield.
- Proved to be a reliable option for the Bills’ offense.
- Critical in maintaining the balance between rushing and passing.
Notable Roster Battles to Follow
With only a few weeks left until the regular season, several position battles are heating up. Here are some key areas to keep an eye on:
Quarterback Controversies
- San Francisco 49ers: Who will be the starting quarterback? Brock Purdy vs. Trey Lance is a fierce competition.
- New York Jets: Aaron Rodgers’ arrival raises questions about Zach Wilson’s role in the future.
Wide Receiver Depth Charts
- New England Patriots: JuJu Smith-Schuster and DeVante Parker are in a tight race for the top spot.
- Seattle Seahawks: Rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba is making a strong case for a significant role alongside DK Metcalf.
Performance Highlights by Position
| Player | Position | Team | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan Love | Quarterback | Packers | Touchdown drive vs. Patriots |
| Kenny Pickett | Quarterback | Steelers | Multiple completions under pressure |
| James Cook | Running Back | Bills | Explosive running plays |
| Jaxon Smith-Njigba | Wide Receiver | Seahawks | Key catches in Seattle’s offense |
Benefits of Watching Preseason Games
Preseason games serve significant purposes beyond entertainment. Here’s why fans and analysts should pay close attention:
- Understanding Team Depth: Preseason helps gauge the depth chart and identify emerging stars.
- Scouting Future Prospects: Fans can discover talent that might contribute in the regular season.
- Analyzing Coaching Strategies: Each team’s approach can indicate their game plans for the upcoming season.
Case Studies: Teams to Watch in 2023
Buffalo Bills
The Bills showcased offensive prowess in their recent game against the Colts. With James Cook’s emergence alongside established stars like Josh Allen, the Bills are looking formidable. Their ability to balance the run and pass will be crucial as they aim for another Super Bowl run.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers’ quarterback competition continues to intrigue fans. Brock Purdy’s impressive showing highlights the depth of talent in the team, while Trey Lance’s potential keeps the pressure on. The result of this battle could define their season’s trajectory.
Practical Tips for Fans
- Stay Updated: Follow team reports and social media for real-time updates on player performances.
- Engage with Highlights: Watch highlight reels to catch the best plays from the games.
- Join Online Communities: Engage with other fans on forums or social media to discuss performances and predictions.
First-Hand Experience: Fans’ Perspectives
Fans who attended the preseason games reported an electric atmosphere. Many expressed excitement about watching rookies and young players vying for spots on the roster. The intensity of the competition made for thrilling viewing experiences.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in Week 3
As we move into Week 3 of the NFL preseason, expect even more fierce competition as teams finalize their rosters. Coaches will likely begin to establish clearer roles for players, and more starters will see playing time. Keep an eye on the ongoing quarterback battles and the development of rookie players, as these narratives will shape the upcoming regular season.
Week 2 of the NFL preseason has laid the groundwork for exciting developments. With roster spots on the line, every snap counts as players push to prove their worth. Stay tuned for further updates as the action continues!
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