As the 2024 NFL preseason reaches its midpoint, teams and players are beginning to find their rhythms, with Week 2 often serving as a vital dress rehearsal for the regular season. Joint practices have been prominent this week as teams strive for peak performance while addressing key positional battles and injuries.
Quarterback Battles Heat Up
In New England, the Patriots are in the midst of a quarterback battle between Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye. According to an insider, "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." As both players vie for the starting role, the offense's overall efficacy hangs in the balance.
Meanwhile, in Chicago, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams has shown promise by completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards in his preseason debut, achieving a passer rating of 101.8. An analyst pointed out, "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." Williams's early performance set a hopeful tone as the Bears scored six points during his two possessions.
Competition and Opportunities in Atlanta
For the Atlanta Falcons, Kirk Cousins is established as the starter, but the competition for backup roles is fierce. Michael Penix Jr. is fighting for opportunities, finishing his preseason debut by completing 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards, with a passer rating of 76.0. Penix guided the Falcons to 10 points over five possessions, demonstrating his potential to impact the team.
Injuries Affect Teams' Strategies
Injury concerns are affecting teams across the league. The New York Giants are coping with Malik Nabers's ankle injury sustained during the preseason opener, while Hollywood Brown of the Kansas City Chiefs is nursing a shoulder injury. These setbacks have opened the door for other players to step up. In Kansas City, rookie Xavier Worthy might need to fill the void, especially with Rashee Rice potentially facing suspension.
At the wide receiver position for the Giants, Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson are competing fervently for the WR2 position behind starters Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. The dynamic within the Giants’ receiving corps could shift significantly based on preseason performances.
Running Backs Making Their Mark
The Tennessee Titans' new running backs, Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears, are quickly making their presence felt. Spears scored a touchdown in the preseason opener, while Pollard made a notable 24-yard run. Together, they managed to gain 37 yards from seven carries, suggesting a promising tandem for the Titans moving forward.
Pressure Mounts for Miami's Backup QBs
In Miami, the competition for the backup quarterback spot is intense. Skylar Thompson completed 8 of 19 passes for 95 yards, with a touchdown and an interception in the preseason opener. In contrast, Mike White struggled, completing only 4 of 14 passes for 26 yards against second- and third-team players. This battle, as noted by a source, "may go down to the first week of the regular season before head coach Antonio Pierce names a starter."
Encouraging Performances and Concerns
The Minnesota Vikings received a sigh of relief when Jordan Addison avoided a serious injury, allowing them to maintain a depth of talent at the receiver position. However, Justin Jefferson is expected to have limited snaps this preseason. Trishton Jackson capitalized on the opportunity by accumulating 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown in the last game.
Conversely, the San Francisco 49ers are managing their expectations with Ricky Pearsall, who has been hampered by hamstring and shoulder problems during training camp. Evaluators remain cautious, stating, "We’re unsure just how good he is because he’s been on the injured list."
Denver's Quarterback Performance
In Denver, the Broncos’ quarterback situation was on display. Bo Nix completed 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with a touchdown in their preseason opener. Jarrett Stidham had less success, finishing 4 of 7 for 37 yards with an interception. The differing performances highlight the ongoing evaluation that the coaching staff must undertake as the regular season approaches.
As the preseason progresses, each game, practice, and snap brings teams closer to crucial decisions. From quarterback battles and injury recoveries to emerging talents and final roster spots, the narrative of the 2024 NFL season is already beginning to unfold, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing and competitive year of football.