The 2024 NFL preseason has reached its midpoint, and as Week 2 unfolds, the atmosphere is that of a dress rehearsal. Joint practices have taken center stage this week, offering teams and players a crucial opportunity to showcase their talents and strategy.
Quarterback Battles Intensify
In New England, a fierce competition is brewing between Jacoby Brissett and rookie Drake Maye for the starting quarterback position. The decision will be pivotal for the Patriots, who are in the midst of a rebuilding phase. "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," noted an insider, highlighting the challenges ahead.
Meanwhile, in Atlanta, Kirk Cousins is firmly established as the starting quarterback, but Michael Penix Jr. is fighting to make his mark. Penix had a respectable preseason debut, completing 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards, achieving a passer rating of 76.0 and guiding the Falcons to 10 points over five possessions. His performance candidly sets the stage for more competitive showings in the coming weeks.
In Chicago, the spotlight is on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, who had an impressive preseason opener, completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards with a passer rating of 101.8. The Bears put up six points during Williams's two possessions. "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," an analyst pointed out, emphasizing the significance of game experience for the rookie.
Injuries Affecting Rosters
Across the league, injuries are already shaping preseason storylines. The New York Giants felt a setback as Malik Nabers suffered an ankle injury in the preseason opener. Similarly, Hollywood Brown is dealing with a shoulder injury, affecting his availability for the Kansas City Chiefs. Xavier Worthy, a rookie, may have to step up in Brown's absence, particularly with Rashee Rice potentially facing suspension.
Ricky Pearsall of the San Francisco 49ers has also been grappling with hamstring and shoulder issues during training camp, raising questions about his readiness for the regular season. "We’re unsure just how good he is because he’s been on the injured list," said an evaluator, casting doubt on Pearsall's immediate impact.
Wide Receiver and Running Back Battles
At the New York Giants, the competition for the WR2 position is heating up between Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson, as they vie for a spot behind Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. The Kansas City Chiefs have a more crowded wide receiver roster, with Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross all in contention for key roles.
In Tennessee, the Titans have added fresh talent to their running back corps with Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. Spears made an immediate impact by scoring a touchdown in the preseason opener, while Pollard contributed with an impressive 24-yard run. The Titans’ offense managed 37 yards from seven carries between the two, providing a glimpse of their potential as the season progresses.
Preseason Performances Under Scrutiny
Elsewhere, the Miami Dolphins are evaluating their backup quarterback options, with Skylar Thompson and Mike White in competition. Thompson displayed mixed results, finishing 8 of 19 for 95 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the preseason opener. White struggled to make an impression, completing only 4 of 14 for 26 yards, mostly against second- and third-team players.
The Minnesota Vikings breathed a sigh of relief as Jordan Addison avoided a serious injury. Despite limited snaps expected for superstar Justin Jefferson this preseason, Trishton Jackson stepped up with notable performance last week by amassing 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown.
Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham of the Denver Broncos demonstrated contrasting performances in their preseason opener. Nix completed 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with a touchdown, while Stidham struggled, finishing 4 of 7 for 37 yards with an interception. These performances will be crucial as the Broncos evaluate their quarterback depth chart heading into the regular season.
As the NFL preseason continues, teams and players are fully immersed in a crucial stretch that will set the tone for the upcoming regular season. With key battles for starting positions, injury concerns, and standout performances, it’s a decisive moment for both veterans and newcomers aiming to make their mark in the league.