As the 2024 NFL preseason reaches its midpoint, Week 2 typically serves as a dress rehearsal for many of the teams. This week has been marked by a series of joint practices, shedding light on various player performances and team dynamics as they inch closer to the regular season.
Quarterback Battles in New England
The New England Patriots find themselves in the throes of a quarterback battle between Jacoby Brissett and rookie Drake Maye. The Patriots' offense, which has been described as having few skill position players and a subpar offensive line, is looking for a leader to steer this rebuilding team. An insider hinted at the significant decision ahead, stating, "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."
Falcons' Quarterback Situation and Rising Talents
Down in Atlanta, Kirk Cousins is reportedly set as the starting quarterback. However, Michael Penix Jr., who has been fighting for his place, made a notable impression in his preseason debut. Penix went 9 of 16 for 104 yards, resulting in a passer rating of 76.0 and guiding the Falcons to 10 points over five possessions. His performance promises a spirited competition and additional depth in their quarterback lineup.
Bears' Rookie Quarterback Impresses
The Chicago Bears are also observing their rookie quarterback, Caleb Williams, who completed 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards in his preseason debut, garnering a passer rating of 101.8. Williams managed to score six points during his two possessions. Observers are keen to see more of him, with an analyst noting, "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."
Giants and Other Injuries
The New York Giants are dealing with an ankle injury to Malik Nabers, jeopardizing their wide receiver depth. Meanwhile, Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson are competing for the WR2 position behind Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. This battle may extend into the regular season, with a source indicating: "This battle may go down to the first week of the regular season before head coach Antonio Pierce names a starter."
Chiefs and Titans: Notable Developments
In Kansas City, Hollywood Brown's shoulder injury has opened up opportunities for rookie Xavier Worthy. Additionally, Rashee Rice could face suspension, affecting the Chiefs' wide receiver lineup, which now includes Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross.
The Tennessee Titans, featuring new running backs Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears, showed promise in their preseason opener. Spears scored a touchdown, while Pollard had a notable 24-yard run. Combined, they managed 37 yards from seven carries, hinting at a potent rushing attack in the making.
Miami Dolphins' Backup Quarterback Competition
The Miami Dolphins are witnessing a battle for the backup quarterback position between Skylar Thompson and Mike White. Thompson finished his preseason opener with 8 of 19 for 95 yards, including a touchdown and an interception. On the other hand, White struggled, completing only 4 of 14 for 26 yards against second- and third-team players.
Vikings and 49ers: Injury Insights
The Minnesota Vikings’ rookie, Jordan Addison, managed to avoid serious injury, providing relief to the coaching staff. Meanwhile, Justin Jefferson is expected to have limited snaps this preseason, paving the way for others like Trishton Jackson, who accumulated 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown in his previous game.
The San Francisco 49ers’ Ricky Pearsall has been hampered by hamstring and shoulder problems during training camp. The team is hopeful for his timely recovery to add depth to their roster.
Broncos' Quarterback Analysis
In Denver, Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham have been the focus in their preseason opener. Nix showed proficiency by completing 15 of 21 passes for 125 yards with a touchdown. Stidham, on the other hand, had a challenging outing with 4 of 7 for 37 yards and an interception. These performances will surely weigh heavily on the Broncos' final quarterback decisions.
As teams move into the latter stages of the preseason, these developments will be critical in shaping the starting lineups and depth charts for the regular season. Each game and practice session offers a window into the potential and readiness of these athletes, setting the stage for an exciting NFL season ahead.