The 2024 NFL preseason has reached its midpoint, offering an intriguing glimpse into various team dynamics and player performances. Week 2 of the exhibition schedule, often viewed as a dress rehearsal, has featured a series of joint practices and open competitions for key roster spots.
Quarterback Battles Heating Up
The New England Patriots find themselves in the throes of a quarterback battle between Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye. This decision is critical for a rebuilding offense that faces significant challenges, including a dearth of skill position players and a subpar offensive line. As one 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." The final determination on the starting quarterback is expected to play a pivotal role in their offensive strategy for the regular season.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons appear to have Kirk Cousins entrenched as their starting quarterback, but Michael Penix Jr. continues to fight for opportunities. Penix showed promise in his preseason debut, completing 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards and guiding the Falcons to 10 points over five possessions. His performance earned him a passer rating of 76.0, and he remains in the mix as the Falcons evaluate their depth chart.
Over in Chicago, the Bears are keen on accelerating the development of their rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams made a notable entrance in his preseason opener, completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards and achieving a passer rating of 101.8. However, the Bears only managed to score six points in the two possessions he controlled. An analyst emphasized the importance of giving Williams more live game reps, stating, "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."
Injuries and Rising Stars
The New York Giants are coping with an injury setback as Malik Nabers suffered an ankle injury in their preseason opener. In response, Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson are competing for the WR2 position behind Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. In Kansas City, the Chiefs are dealing with a series of issues surrounding their wide receiver roster. Hollywood Brown is sidelined with a shoulder injury, and rookie Xavier Worthy might need to step up. Additionally, Rashee Rice faces a potential suspension, which further complicates the situation for the Chiefs' receiving corps. Contenders for roster spots include Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross. These developments will be pivotal as the Chiefs look to solidify their lineup.
Running Backs and Defensive Prospects
The Tennessee Titans have introduced new running backs Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears into their offensive scheme. In the preseason opener, Spears recorded a touchdown, while Pollard impressed with a 24-yard run. Collectively, the Titans' offense managed 37 yards from seven carries between Pollard and Spears, showcasing their potential to bolster the team's ground game.
On the defensive side of the ball, Laiatu Latu emerged as a standout during his time at UCLA, leading the FBS with a 23.9% pressure rate. This statistic underscores his potential impact as he transitions to the professional level.
Position Battles and Depth Chart Concerns
The Miami Dolphins are witnessing a tight competition for the backup quarterback spot between Skylar Thompson and Mike White. During the preseason opener, Thompson completed 8 of 19 passes for 95 yards, with a touchdown and an interception, whereas White struggled, completing only 4 of 14 passes for 26 yards against second- and third-team players. This battle remains unresolved and will likely continue to be a focal point for the Dolphins.
In Minnesota, Jordan Addison avoided 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 amassed 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown last week, will need to step up and showcase their abilities.
The San Francisco 49ers have had to contend with injury issues affecting Ricky Pearsall, who has been dealing with hamstring and shoulder problems during training camp. These injuries may impact his ability to compete effectively for a roster spot.
Quarterback Showcases
Finally, the Denver Broncos' quarterback situation saw Bo Nix complete 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with a touchdown in the preseason opener. Jarrett Stidham, on the other hand, struggled, finishing with 4 of 7 passing for 37 yards and an interception. The Broncos will have to evaluate these performances closely as they refine their depth chart ahead of the regular season.
The NFL preseason continues to reveal critical insights and developments as teams gear up for the regular season. With quarterback battles, injury management, and emerging talents, the coming weeks will be vital for teams to solidify their rosters and strategies.