The 2024 NFL preseason has hit its stride, reaching the midpoint and providing teams an essential platform to hone their rosters. Week 2 often serves as a critical dress rehearsal, offering a glimpse into potential regular-season lineups and resolving key positional battles.
New England Patriots: A Quarterback Conundrum
In New England, the battle for the quarterback position between Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye has intensified. The Patriots' offense, plagued by a lack of skill position players and an underwhelming offensive line, faces significant challenges. An 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."
Atlanta Falcons: Penix Shines in Debut
The Atlanta Falcons have Kirk Cousins cemented as their starter, but Michael Penix Jr. is making his case for more opportunities. In his preseason debut, Penix finished 9 of 16 for 104 yards, earning a respectable passer rating of 76.0. Over five possessions, Penix guided the Falcons to 10 points, showcasing his potential to contribute to the team's offensive unit.
Chicago Bears: High Hopes for Caleb Williams
Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears also made a promising start, completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards and achieving a passer rating of 101.8 in his preseason opener. The Bears managed to score six points during Williams’s two possessions. 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."
Injury Concerns and Wide Receiver Battles
The New York Giants are dealing with an injury setback after Malik Nabers suffered an ankle injury in the preseason opener. Meanwhile, Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson are in a tight competition for the WR2 position behind Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. The Kansas City Chiefs are another team dealing with injuries as Hollywood Brown recovers from a shoulder issue. Rookie Xavier Worthy might need to step up, especially with Rashee Rice potentially facing suspension. Kansas City's wide receiver roster remains competitive, featuring contenders like Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross.
Tennessee Titans: A Dynamic Backfield
The Tennessee Titans have new additions in their backfield with Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. Spears scored a touchdown in the preseason opener, while Pollard showcased his potential with a 24-yard run. Together, they managed 37 yards from seven carries, hinting at a dynamic duo that could be pivotal for the Titans’ offense this season.
Miami Dolphins: Backup QB Battle
The Miami Dolphins are witnessing a fierce competition for the backup quarterback spot between Skylar Thompson and Mike White. Thompson posted an 8 of 19 performance for 95 yards, including a touchdown and an interception, in the preseason opener. On the other hand, White struggled, completing only 4 of 14 passes for 26 yards against second- and third-team players. This battle may go down to the first week of the regular season before head coach Antonio Pierce names a starter.
Minnesota Vikings: Addison and Jackson Impress
The Minnesota Vikings had a scare but some good news with Jordan Addison avoiding a serious injury. Meanwhile, star receiver Justin Jefferson is expected to have limited snaps this preseason. Trishton Jackson turned heads, amassing 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown last week, further deepening the wide receiver corps for the Vikings.
San Francisco 49ers: Health Hurdles
For the San Francisco 49ers, Ricky Pearsall has been grappling with hamstring and shoulder problems throughout training camp. His health remains a concern as the team inches closer to finalizing its roster.
Denver Broncos: Quarterback Analysis
In Denver, Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham showcased contrasting performances. Nix completed an impressive 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with a touchdown, while Stidham struggled, finishing 4 of 7 for 37 yards with an interception. The Broncos are keenly analyzing their options as they plan for the upcoming season.
As the preseason progresses, teams across the league are working tirelessly to resolve key roster battles and address injury concerns. With another slate of games on the horizon, the NFL's young talents and seasoned veterans alike aim to showcase their skills and solidify their spots heading into the regular season.