As the NFL preseason gets underway, teams throughout the league are looking for answers to key questions. Taken together, those decisions might shape their fortunes this free agency season to come. So with familiar faces and newcomers alike fighting for a place on the roster, the competition promises to be fierce. This article will look at the most notable story lines and player performances as they get set for the regular season.
That seven-touchdown ceiling was what Michael Penix Jr. tied with Anthony Richardson Sr. last season. This preseason, he’s supposed to be the one raising hell himself. He was somebody that had a great college career. Yet last season, his completion percentage was the fifth worst in the NFL, finishing -5.3% below expectation. Unsurprisingly, this stat begs some questions about his consistency and ability to elevate his game in the pros.
Travis Etienne Jr. has turned into the much more productive pass catcher compared to his running mate, Tank Bigsby. Etienne’s versatility presents a dangerous weapon to the offense, as he proved last Sunday with his ability to catch passes out of the backfield. As the team continues to reassess its hopes on offense, Etienne’s work could end up being monumental.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. has been the guy taking first-team reps nearly exclusively all summer long. That only underscores his commitment and readiness to tackle the herculean task that lies ahead. He has really made the most of this opportunity, proving his growth as a player. That should illustrate the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities.
Running Back Battles and Player Evaluations
The running back position continues to be a hot topic as teams do their own evaluations of their roster. Jaylen Warren is the most notable name in that competition, though he is far more experienced and explosive than Kaleb Johnson, adding some veteran presence to the backfield. If he continues his camp performance he has the potential to be an impact player and key cog for his team.
In another notable situation, James Cook held in for much of the camp before reaching a contract extension, indicating both sides’ desire to keep him involved in the team’s plans. Ray Davis is developing into an important piece this year. His ascent could eat into Cook’s output and alter the overall running game’s yin-yang entirely.
It’s clear that the battle for starting positions is becoming quite the dog fight. Behind them, Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and Jaydon Blue are all showing their worth in training camp. Who starts between those two will ultimately come down to the coaching staff’s decision based on their performances during camp and the preseason leading up to the regular season.
Receiving Corps Dynamics
The receiving corps might have the most interesting dynamics as teams try to sift through the talent. Stefon Diggs is a candidate for increased responsibility in the regular season. That’s a clear indicator that the coaching staff is beginning to trust him more to make meaningful impacts in games. His experience and versatile skill set would catapult him to making a large impact in pivotal moments.
The Magnolia product has made a nice impression on his coaching staff this preseason as he appears to have become the dependable possession receiver. His progress will be interesting to watch as he attempts to find a role in the teams’ offensive system.
Don’t sleep on TreVeyon Henderson as a darkhorse for a regular contributor spot. His performances in practice suggest he may become a key asset in the passing game, complementing established receivers and offering additional options for the quarterback.
Defensive Adjustments and Player Recovery
At the defensive side, teams are having to adjust with their player’s performances and health. After a career-worst 3.8 yards per carry last season, expect running back D’Andre Swift to have a real rebound. His determination to improve will be critical as he seeks redemption and aims to regain his status as a reliable running back.
After suffering a loss of explosiveness this offseason, Rashee Rice has returned to form. Anytime he has the ball in space you see his electric playmaking ability on display. His return would be a shot in the arm for his team’s scoring capabilities, likely leading to more offensive chances and ultimately more goals.
As training camps continue, teams will look to these evaluations to help fine-tune their rosters. This vital process will gear them up for the intense regular season ahead. Coaches have to make difficult personnel decisions that are going to make a world of difference in their opportunities for success.
Leave a Reply