Analysis
8/23/23
15 min read
50 Most Important NFL Observations After 2 Weeks of Preseason Action
Two weeks of the preseason are finished, and a lot has happened. From position battles to standout rookies and unexpected performances, let's take a look at 50 observations that have captured my attention thus far.
50 Most Important Observations
Quarterback Confusion
The Arizona Cardinals have declined to say who will be their Week 1 quarterback while Kyler Murray continues to recover from a torn ACL. Colt McCoy could ultimately be the guy, but considering where this team is, they’d have nothing to lose by playing fifth-round rookie Clayton Tune.
Update: Cardinals traded a 5th-round pick to the Browns for QB Josh Dobbs and a 7th-round pick.
Arizona's Tackle Situation
Offensive tackle Josh Jones started 21 games during the last two years, but his starting role might be gone after the team selected Paris Johnson with the No. 6 pick in April.
Given that Jones is in the last year of his contract and the Cardinals are stockpiling future draft picks, it wouldn't be surprising if he's in some trade talks, especially with so many teams looking for offensive line help. Jones had a resurgent season last year at left tackle.
Update: Cardinals traded Jones to the Texans on Aug. 24
Defensive Revolution
The Atlanta Falcons' defense has ranked among the league's worst in the past two seasons. However, the hiring of new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen and all the defensive additions, including Jessie Bates, David Onyemata, Kaden Elliss and Calais Campbell, has created a buzz this unit could turn heads in 2023. While it’s just preseason, the defense has allowed just 16 points in two games.
Clowney in Rotation
The Baltimore Ravens signed DE Jadeveon Clowney to a one-year contract that includes just $2.1 million guaranteed. Expect them to use him in a situational role like they did with Justin Houston, who recently signed with the Carolina Panthers for $6 million guaranteed.
Surviving Humphrey's Injury
The foot injury to Pro Bowl CB Marlon Humphrey is a tough one to swallow for the Ravens, but they are optimistic he won’t miss too much time. They added Ronald Darby on a one-year contract shortly after, but Baltimore is in a complicated spot with its corners.
Aside from the Humphrey injury, Trayvon Mullen had season-ending toe surgery, Damarion Williams is expected to be out until at least October because of an ankle injury, Rock Ya-Sin is dealing with a knee issue and hasn’t practiced in two weeks and Arthur Maulet has been sidelined due to a hamstring strain. Baltimore is likely still looking to add another corner.
Rookie Receiver Excites
There is a high level of excitement for what first-round rookie WR Zay Flowers is going to do in Baltimore’s offense. There are a lot of mouths to feed in the Ravens’ offense, but they expect him to impact the game in various ways — whether he has the ball or not.
We saw a glimpse of it in Monday night’s preseason game against Washington. The great Peter King called Flowers: "The most impressive rookie I have encountered during my training camp tour."
Diggs Staying Put
Stephen A. Smith created a firestorm on Monday when he stated WR Stefon Diggs wants out of Buffalo. Diggs shot down the speculation on Twitter, and regardless, Diggs' contract is essentially impossible to trade this year because the Bills would incur a $13.2 million dead cap hit.
Offensive Line Issues Abound
The Buffalo Bills offensive line has been a bit shaky, and the depth at offensive tackle is not great at the moment. Buffalo has seen Brandon Shell retire and Tommy Doyle go down with a season-ending injury in the last week.
Former First Round Pick Struggles
Former first-round CB Kaiir Elam has had some struggles in camp, and it’s usually not a great indicator when a player is still on the field during the fourth quarter of a preseason game. Buffalo was hoping Elam would grab a starting role with his play in camp, but that just hasn’t happened yet.
Replacing Tremaine Edmunds
Buffalo allowed LB Tremaine Edmunds to depart in free agency with the hope Tyrel Dodson would replace him. Coach Sean McDermott recently said the competition for the linebacker job is still wide open, and veteran A.J. Klein appears to be in the mix to overtake Dodson.
QB2 Competition
QB Matt Barkley threw three interceptions against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Buffalo’s second preseason game, while Kyle Allen’s play hasn’t been anything special. With Josh Allen's playstyle, it’s worth wondering if Buffalo feels like it has Allen's backup on the roster.
Panthers' Leaky Line
The Carolina Panthers' offensive line was a strength down the stretch last season, but it has been shaky so far. Former No. 6 pick Ikem Ekwonu has struggled against the New York Jets and New York Giants pass rush. Carolina cannot afford to have a leaky offensive line around No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young – or else the Panthers are asking for trouble.
Bears' Backup Battle
The Chicago Bears gave P.J. Walker $2 million in guaranteed money this offseason to be QB Justin Fields’ backup. However, Walker has struggled in preseason play, and undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent has shined. Coach Matt Eberflus declined to answer who will be the backup quarterback after the Bears' last preseason game on Saturday.
Burrow's Injury
It seems like QB Joe Burrow is recovering well from his calf injury that he suffered early in camp. I’m still intrigued to see if he takes the practice field again without his contract extension finalized.
Looking Elsewhere?
With Burrow out, Trevor Siemian and Jake Browning have not done much to prove they deserve to be the primary backup. Cincinnati's situation is another where it’s fair to wonder if the backup is on the roster.
Bumpy Roads in Cleveland
The reports out of Cleveland have not made it sound like everything is smooth and perfect for Deshaun Watson and the offense. That’s not abnormal. But this season is so pivotal for the Cleveland Browns and Watson, and it’s gone a bit under the radar.
Kicking Struggles
Former fourth-round kicker Cade York has missed a field goal in each of Cleveland’s three preseason games so far. Coach Kevin Stefanski reiterated they won't add competition for him, even though veterans like Robbie Gould and Mason Crosby are still available.
Cowboys' Rookie Will Play
Rookie RB Deuce Vaughn looks like he’s going to be involved in the offense in some form or fashion. You’re going to hear the Darren Sproles comparison non-stop, but the 5-foot-5, 180-pound Vaughn has been lights out so far in camp and in preseason action.
Okwuegbunam Available?
Sean Payton is still trying to put his fingerprints on this roster, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Denver continues to shuffle players in and out. Tight end Albert Okwuegbunam is a name that could be available on the trade market.
James Houston Still Playing?
I found it interesting that Detroit Lions pass rusher James Houston was playing well into the second half during Saturday’s preseason game against Jacksonville. Houston has had a bit of a quiet training camp after racking up eight sacks as a rookie last season. Detroit is pretty deep at the position.
Under the Radar and Happy With It
It does feel like the Green Bay Packers have become the forgotten team in the NFC now that Aaron Rodgers is no longer there. They are confident QB Jordan Love could take them places and not having much hype is perfectly fine with them.
Bakhtiari Staying Put
After speculation was sparked by an Instagram story from Rodgers, Packers general manager Brian Gutenkunst confirmed the Packers will not trade All-Pro left tackle David Bakhtiari, which makes a lot of sense. Bakhtiari seems to be fully healthy after nagging knee issues.
Lacking Experience at WR
I do find it fascinating that Green Bay is going into this season without a single receiver who has more than two years of NFL experience.
Will Stroud Start?
It has seemed like a given that C.J. Stroud would be the Houston Texans' Week 1 starting quarterback. However, coach DeMeco Ryans has remained tight-lipped about his plans. The offense has managed only a field goal across six drives with the No. 2 overall pick at quarterback.
It could be a long shot, but I have wondered if Houston will decide to take a step back and not throw the rookie into the fire right away. What’s the rush to get him out there in Week 1 vs. the Ravens in Baltimore?
Taylor Saga Continues
The Jonathan Taylor saga has dominated the headlines at Indianapolis Colts camp, and the team has granted Taylor permission to explore a trade. The 2021 First-Team All-Pro remains on the PUP list due to an ankle injury. It's important to note that if Taylor isn't removed from the list by Aug. 29 at 4:00 p.m. ET, he must sit out at least the first four games of the regular season.
Not Waiting for Richardson
I was a bit surprised the Colts named Anthony Richardson their Week 1 starting quarterback after just one preseason game – and then also decided to rest him for their second preseason game. Richardson was the one quarterback who evaluators thought needed as many reps as possible before being thrown into real action.
The Colts prioritized signing Gardner Minshew in free agency and he, of course, has familiarity with Shane Steichen. But clearly, Richardson has shown enough in their eyes.
Bigsby Could Be Short-Yardage Back
The Jacksonville Jaguars have been using rookie Tank Bigsby a lot in the preseason. I wouldn’t be surprised if they give him reps in certain short-yardage situations this season. That’s a part of the offense they felt was missing last year.
Chris Jones Holdout Continues
DL Chris Jones remains absent from Kansas City Chiefs training camp, causing his daily fines of $50,000 to mount. Despite Jones sending some cryptic tweets in recent days and weeks, there's still a level of optimism both sides will find a resolution. Getting close to the Aaron Donald AAV of $31.7 million will be key.
Ross Bandwagon Leaving the Station
I’ve been saying it for months but get on the Justyn Ross bandwagon if you haven’t yet. I’m a believer the wide receiver.
Backup Job up for Grabs?
The Chiefs have relied on their backup quarterback at times in recent years. With Chad Henne retiring, the plan was for free agent signing Blaine Gabbert to step in. However, Shane Buechele is making a strong case to take over, given his impressive performance this preseason.
O'Connell Pushing Hoyer
Las Vegas Raiders rookie QB Aidan O'Connell has looked sensational through two preseason games, going 26 for 36, with 304 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions. Las Vegas intended for Brian Hoyer to be the backup for the oft-injured Jimmy Garoppolo, but O'Connell has made a strong case to be the guy.
Kellen Moore Pushing the Right Buttons
We’re going to see a night-and-day difference with the Los Angeles Chargers offense now that Kellen Moore is the offensive coordinator.
Cedrick Wilson Available
The Miami Dolphins are still open to trading receiver Cedrick Wilson, who signed a three-year, $22 million contract in 2022.
Wilkins Holding in
Dolphins DT Christian Wilkins has been having a pretty quiet “hold-in” as he waits for a new long-term deal. Both sides have wanted to get it done, but it hasn’t been the smoothest negotiation.
Ultimatum for Corey Davis?
New York Jets receiver Corey Davis is due to make a non-guaranteed $10 million this upcoming season. I’ve wondered if the Jets “squeeze” him before the season and tell him to take a pay cut or else he’ll get cut.
Update: Davis announced he's stepping away from football on Aug. 23
Fixing Jets' OL Problems
It was eye-popping to see Robert Saleh call out his offensive line in front of the entire team on "Hard Knocks." The Jets have patiently been waiting for LT Duane Brown to come off PUP, and they will give Mekhi Becton a chance to start at right tackle in their third preseason game. Protecting Rodgers is priority No. 1 for this squad, and they’ll leave no stone unturned to make it happen.
Waller Could Be Target Monster
TE Darren Waller could be in line for a 100-plus target season if he stays healthy. The connection between him and Daniel Jones has been in full effect since day one of training camp.
Finding the "Right" Guard
The Giants are still trying to figure out who will be their starting guards this season. Ben Bredeson, Mark Glowinski and Josh Ezeudu have been shuffling around.
Linebacker Spot Available
The Giants signed Bobby Okereke to a big free agent contract this offseason, but the second inside linebacker spot next to him is still up for grabs.
Update: Giants traded for Cardinals LB Isaiah Simmons on Aug. 24.
Douglas' Buzz Grows
New England Patriots sixth-round receiver Demario Douglas has been a standout at training camp, and there’s been growing buzz he could find his way onto the field in the regular season.
McKee Earning Roster Spot
The backup quarterback position in Philadelphia has always been important for Howie Roseman, and Marcus Mariota's performance in the preseason has been less than impressive. Meanwhile, rookie Tanner McKee has performed well.
Considering Mariota received $5 million guaranteed, he's likely to remain on the team. But I don’t think the Philadelphia Eagles can sneak McKee through waivers and get him on the practice squad. He might’ve played his way into a roster spot.
Jensen's Injury
The Ryan Jensen situation in Tampa Bay hasn't received much national attention. The former Pro Bowl center missed the 2022 regular season due to a severe knee injury but managed somehow to make a return for Tampa's playoff game.
However, his knee hasn't improved, and Jensen hasn't been a regular presence on the field during training camp. Concerns have risen that he might miss the start of the season.
Wirfs' Position Switch
I've written about this before on the site, and I'll reiterate it: It will be intriguing to see how Tristan Wirfs does flipping from right tackle to left tackle. It’s not an easy transition for everyone.
Warren Earning Greater Role
Najee Harris dealt with a painful foot injury last season, and the talk throughout this entire offseason has been it's finally behind him. Coach Mike Tomlin is certainly a big fan of Jaylen Warren, but it's far-fetched to think he has overtaken Harris' starting role. Still, expect Warren to be involved in the offense.
Seahawks' Rookies Banged up
Both of the Seattle Seahawks' first-round rookies are dealing with injuries. Devon Witherspoon, the No. 5 pick, has been sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the No. 20 pick, recently sustained a wrist injury that required surgery.
Neither player has been ruled out for regular season action, but both situations are worth monitoring.
Bosa's Contract Could Exceed $30M Annually
DE Nick Bosa’s holdout in San Francisco is still going. Bosa's contract extension will be a massive one, and it’s going to surpass $30 million per year. Both sides have been working hard to get this one done.
Malik Willis Earning Role
There were some who thought Malik Willis was an afterthought in the Tennessee Titans' quarterback room entering training camp. Still, the second-year pro has done a fine job and taken advantage of rookie Will Levis missing time with an injury.
Willis was drafted by former general manager Jon Robinson and not so much by Mike Vrabel. Willis was rumored to be on the roster bubble, but his play might've changed that.
Don't Count Out Commanders
The Commanders were adamant all offseason long that Sam Howell was their guy – and it’s been easy to see why they loved him so much through two weeks of preseason. Washington could be a sneaky team in the NFC East. There’s a lot of talent on that roster.
Buying Into Bieniemy
What Ron Rivera said about Eric Bieniemy a couple of weeks ago blew up, and I totally get why it did. Bieniemy is an intense guy, and he’s super loud and demanding. I’m not shocked it’s taking time for players to adapt.
Here’s the thing: Chiefs players swear by him. When Bieniemy took the job, he was assured he’ll have full control of the offense, and he’ll get to do it his way.
He was even involved in free agency and was one of the main voices when it came to signing Andrew Wylie to a three-year, $24 million contract. He's implementing his approach, and the players need to fully commit. It appears they've rallied together and done exactly that.
Veteran Reinforcement
Jason Peters, a 41-year-old free agent offensive tackle, still wants to play football, and it would not be surprising if multiple teams show interest. There are several teams that believe they are contenders and are seeking line help.
