• Promising playing time for Adonai Mitchell: In the 12 personnel formation for the Indianapolis Colts, Mitchell was on the field ahead of Alec Pierce for three out of four snaps and ended up scoring the first touchdown of the game.
• Charlie Jones makes his return with the Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals returner showcased a highlight reel play right at the start of the game, further intensifying the competition for the backup receiver position.
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PFF’s fantasy football recap highlights player usage and statistics, delivering crucial insights you need to thrive in fantasy for the 2024 season.
Indianapolis Colts @ Cincinnati Bengals
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Encouraging Adonai Mitchell Usage: Mitchell has participated in several snaps within 12 personnel, indicating that he may become a full-time starter in the near future.
He began training camp battling Alec Pierce for the role of outside wide receiver, positioned opposite Michael Pittman Jr.. During camp, Josh Downs suffered an injury prior to the preseason game, resulting in Mitchell shifting to the slot position. Consequently, we have not been able to gauge how the snap distribution between Mitchell and Pierce might look, as they have typically appeared on the field simultaneously.
In the initial week of the preseason, the Colts deployed their starters for two drives, exclusively utilizing 11 personnel. Mitchell and Pierce participated in one additional drive together and both took part in the 12 personnel snaps, which indicates the Colts are open to using Mitchell in that specific grouping. For the second game, the Colts rested their starters, including Mitchell, which is another encouraging sign.
During the game on Thursday night, the Colts implemented 12 personnel on four plays. Mitchell was active on three of those, while Pierce was involved in one. It is worth noting that Pierce was the first to participate in the initial play. Given the small sample size, this detail should be taken into account. However, it remains a positive sign that Mitchell is likely to maintain a significant number of snaps even with Downs’ return. He is a rookie worth considering as a late-round pick in deeper leagues. Even if he performs at a mediocre level as a rookie, he may not be a reliable starter, but any rookie wide receiver has the potential for a breakout, and he will be in a position to seize that opportunity.
Charlie Jones Returns to the Bengals: The backup receiver and return specialist for the Bengals missed the last two games due to a knee injury.
Selected as a fourth-round pick by the Bengals last year, Jones is anticipated to be the team’s main punt returner at minimum. He served as the primary punt returner for this game and demonstrated his ability to contribute on kickoff returns as well, returning the initial kickoff for 48 yards. Trayveon Williams has also participated in kickoff returns, with Chase Brown expected to join him. Currently, Jones is listed fourth on the depth chart but will move up to third when the Bengals remove Chris Evans, who
suffered a season-ending injury.
The presence of Jones further complicates Jermaine Burton’s opportunity for playing time this season. The Bengals chose to rest their top four wide receivers, which included Trenton Irwin and Andrei Iosivas. Consequently, anyone who participated in this game is likely to be at best fifth on the depth chart to start the season.
Throughout preseason, Burton has predominantly played in 11 personnel, avoiding 12 personnel, despite not occupying the slot position. To begin this game, Jones served as the primary slot receiver and is expected to act as the backup slot receiver during the regular season. Over the past two weeks, even undrafted 2023 receiver Shedrick Jackson has received more snaps than Burton during the initial drives. As it stands, Burton is ranked seventh on the depth chart, and he could climb to sixth if the Bengals opt to keep six wide receivers while cutting Jackson. However, it appears unlikely that Burton will see significant playtime early in the season, placing him at risk of being one of the Bengals’ inactive players at the start of the season. Consequently, he is not someone I would advise targeting in most redraft leagues.
Miscellaneous Notes
Chicago Bears @ Kansas City Chiefs
Deneric Prince appears likely to secure a spot on the roster: Despite losing a yard on his three carries, the former undrafted running back is expected to earn a place on the 53-man roster.
The Chiefs decided against re-signing Jerick McKinnon, creating an opportunity for a younger running back to join the team. Kansas City did not add any new players during the draft, which has resulted in an open competition. Prince took the third,
During the Chiefs’ initial preseason game, the majority of the fourth and part of the fifth drive was undertaken by Prince, who seems to have established himself as the leading candidate for the third running back position.
In their second matchup, Edwards-Helaire was sidelined, and fullback Carson Steele was on the field for the entire duration of the Chiefs’ second and third drives. Prince only made his appearance in the fourth drive and continued playing until the end of the third quarter.
On Thursday night, Prince started in place of Steele, taking all the snaps during the first drive but then did not return to the game. After the first drive, Steele stepped in and performed significantly better, recording a 31-yard run and scoring on a one-yard touchdown.
While Prince might ultimately be the fourth option among the four running backs, his starting role suggests that his position on the roster is not as precarious as it may seem. Additionally, he would likely have received more chances to play later in the game had that been the case. Historically, the Chiefs have kept four running backs on their roster, especially during the time of Anthony Sherman, so it wouldn’t be unexpected to see this pattern continue.
Nsimba Webster positions himself as a contender for WR4: In Thursday night’s game, Webster recorded three receptions for 68 yards while starting.
The top three wide receiver slots for the Bears are secured, leaving the remaining positions open for discussion. In the Hall of Fame game, the wide receivers for the first drive included Tyler Scott, Collin Johnson, and DeAndre Carter. In the next game, Dante Pettis replaced Johnson, but Webster did not play in either game.
Recently, Webster was among the first wide receivers to take the field in place of Carter, who didn’t participate, resulting in him logging the most snaps. In this particular game, both Scott and Webster started and saw considerably more playing time in the first half compared to Johnson or Carter, while Pettis did not play. Although Scott initially appeared to be the frontrunner for the fourth wide receiver role, both Pettis and Webster have showcased superior numbers on fewer routes.
It’s quite feasible that the Bears may not define a distinct fourth wide receiver, instead opting for backups tailored to each starter. For instance, Pettis could serve as the backup slot receiver, Webster might take on the role of the backup X receiver for D.J. Moore, and Scott could fill in as the backup Z receiver for Rome Odunze. Throughout the preseason, the Bears have shown a strong tendency for this type of wide receiver usage. As such, if any Bears wide receiver faces an injury this season, the backup who steps in will likely depend on which starter is sidelined.
Miscellaneous Notes
- The Bears opted to rest quarterback Caleb Williams, running backs D’Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, and Khalil Herbert, as well as wide receivers “`html
- D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, and tight ends Cole Kmet, Gerald Everett, and Marcedes Lewis.
- Velus Jones Jr. is highly unlikely to secure a spot on the roster. During this training camp, he switched from wide receiver to running back. The Bears initiated their fourth running back, Travis Homer, who led the first two drives. Undrafted rookie Ian Wheeler took the third drive before Jones stepped in for the fourth. Consequently, he ranks sixth on the depth chart. Wide receiver DeAndre Carter was the main returner on Thursday night, indicating they do not rely on Jones for return duties. He may become a candidate for the practice squad.
- The Chiefs provided rest for quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Carson Wentz, running backs Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, wide receivers Rashee Rice, Justin Watson, and Xavier Worthy, along with tight ends Travis Kelce and Noah Gray.
- Wide receiver Hollywood Brown is still sidelined due to injury, and his availability for Week 1 is still uncertain.
- Skyy Moore faced an injury earlier in the week, which likely accounts for his limited snap count, although it is somewhat surprising that he played at all. Moore is <a href=
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expected to make the roster. It seems that one or two of the wide receivers for the Chiefs who started on Thursday may be released. Kadarius Toney is currently the frontrunner.
Table Notes
- Snap counts include plays that were nullified due to penalties, such as offensive holding or defensive pass interference. The other three statistics exclude these plays.
- Target counts might vary from those provided by official NFL sources. The primary difference may arise from passes that were clearly thrown away; in these cases, the NFL might assign the target to the closest receiver, but this data will not reflect that.
- Carry statistics reflect only designed plays. Scrambles by the quarterback do not contribute to the total number of carries in the game.
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Preseason Highlights: Adonai Mitchell Shines for Colts; Charlie Jones’ Return Boosts Bengals
Adonai Mitchell: Rising Star for the Indianapolis Colts
Adonai Mitchell has quickly made a name for himself during the preseason with the Indianapolis Colts. The 2023 preseason has offered a glimpse into Mitchell’s potential as a key player. His exceptional performances have not only caught the attention of fans but also solidified his role within the team’s offensive scheme.
Key Highlights of Adonai Mitchell’s Performance
- Dynamic Route Running: Mitchell showcased impressive agility and speed, making him a reliable option for the quarterback. His ability to create separation from defenders was evident in multiple scrimmages.
- Impressive Catching Ability: He recorded several highlight-reel catches, demonstrating both his hand strength and focus under pressure.
- Strong Chemistry with Quarterbacks: Mitchell’s rapport with both Gardner Minshew and Anthony Richardson has been palpable, hinting at a promising offensive partnership for the upcoming season.
Charlie Jones: A Welcome Boost for the Cincinnati Bengals
Charlie Jones’ return to the Cincinnati Bengals has been a game-changer during the preseason. After dealing with injuries, his comeback is expected to enhance the team’s overall performance as they prepare for the regular season.
Impact of Charlie Jones’ Return
- Versatile Playmaker: Jones’ ability to play multiple positions within the receiving corps adds depth and flexibility to the Bengals’ offensive strategy.
- Enhanced Special Teams: His experience is vital for the special teams unit, where his speed and agility can turn the tide in crucial moments.
- Building Chemistry: Jones has quickly re-established rapport with quarterback Joe Burrow, making their connection a key component of the Bengals’ offensive game plan.
Comparative Performance: Mitchell vs. Jones
| Player | Receptions | Yards | Touchdowns | Impact on Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adonai Mitchell | 8 | 120 | 2 | Emerging WR1 |
| Charlie Jones | 5 | 75 | 1 | Key Special Teams Player |
Benefits of Strong Preseason Performances
Preseason games serve as more than just warm-ups; they play a critical role in shaping the trajectory of the regular season. Here are some benefits of strong performances by players like Adonai Mitchell and Charlie Jones:
- Increased Confidence: Excelling during the preseason boosts players’ confidence, allowing them to approach the regular season with a winning mentality.
- Team Cohesion: Successful plays and strong interactions among teammates contribute to better on-field chemistry.
- Strategic Insights: Coaches gain valuable insights into player capabilities and areas for improvement, informing game strategies moving forward.
First-Hand Experience: Adonai Mitchell’s Development
Mitchell’s progression can be attributed to his dedicated training regimen during the offseason. By analyzing game footage and focusing on specific skill sets, he has developed into a promising wide receiver. His commitment to improvement is a testament to his work ethic, and this offseason effort is now paying off.
Practical Tips for Players Looking to Shine in Preseason
For aspiring players aiming to make their mark during the preseason, consider the following tips:
- Focus on Fundamentals: Mastering basic skills can greatly enhance overall performance.
- Work on Conditioning: Maintaining peak physical condition ensures you are ready to perform at your best when it counts.
- Study Playbooks: Understanding the team’s offensive and defensive schemes can provide a competitive edge during games.
- Build Relationships: Establishing rapport with teammates and coaches is essential for effective teamwork.
Case Study: Successful Preseason Players in the NFL
Throughout NFL history, several players have used their preseason performances to launch successful careers. Here are a few notable examples:
- Antonio Brown: His exceptional catching ability and speed during the preseason caught coaches’ attention, leading to a standout career.
- Julian Edelman: Despite being a quarterback in college, Edelman’s preseason performances as a receiver solidified his role in the Patriots’ offense.
- Tyreek Hill: Hill’s explosive plays during the preseason showed his potential, ultimately making him a valuable asset for the Chiefs and Dolphins.
The Importance of Preseason Games for Team Strategy
Preseason games are crucial for teams to evaluate talent, refine strategies, and build cohesion. The performances of players like Adonai Mitchell and Charlie Jones contribute significantly to their respective teams’ preparations for the upcoming season.
- Assessing Roster Depth: Coaches use these games to identify strengths and weaknesses within the roster, aiding in final roster decisions.
- Testing Strategies: Preseason allows teams to test different offensive and defensive schemes in real-game situations.
- Managing Player Health: Coaches must balance playing time to minimize the risk of injuries while still giving players the opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Conclusion
With the preseason underway, players like Adonai Mitchell and Charlie Jones have demonstrated their potential and importance to their respective teams. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these athletes continue to develop and contribute to their teams’ success in the NFL.
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