Weekend Guide to NFL Preseason Games
Introduction:
The Athletic’s daily NFL newsletter, Scoop City, provides updates on the latest news and signings in the league. This weekend, there are several preseason games to watch, featuring both established stars and promising rookies. Let’s take a look at the schedule and key players to keep an eye on.
Preseason Weekend Guide:
Saturday’s Early Slate:
– Falcons at Ravens (12:00 PM ET)
– Bengals at Bears (1:00 PM ET)
– Giants at Texans (1:00 PM ET)
Analysis:
The Falcons’ recent acquisitions of Matthew Judon and Justin Simmons have added depth to their defense. However, the decision to pass on WR Rome Odunze in the draft raises questions about their long-term strategy. The Falcons plan to give rookie QB Michael Penix Jr. plenty of playing time this preseason, allowing fans to evaluate his potential. Other players to watch in the Falcons-Ravens game include the Giants’ QB Daniel Jones and seven players listed by Josh Kendall in Baltimore.
Saturday Afternoon:
– Lions at Chiefs (4:00 PM ET)
– Vikings at Browns (4:25 PM ET)
Analysis:
With J.J. McCarthy out for the year, the Vikings’ focus will be on winning with Sam Darnold. However, joint practices with the Browns’ defense did not go well for Darnold, as he forced passes to a covered Justin Jefferson. Chiefs WR Justyn Ross, projected to make the team, will also be looking to make an impact in this game.
Saturday Evening Slate:
– Seahawks at Titans (7:00 PM ET)
– Cardinals at Colts (7:00 PM ET)
– Bills at Steelers (7:00 PM ET)
– Jets at Panthers (7:00 PM ET)
– Commanders at Dolphins (7:00 PM ET)
– Rams at Chargers (7:05 PM ET)
– Buccaneers at Jaguars (7:30 PM ET)
– Cowboys at Raiders (10:00 PM ET)
Analysis:
Colts QB Anthony Richardson will be looking to bounce back after a mediocre showing in Week 1 of the preseason. He had a strong performance in joint practices against the Cardinals’ defense, and fans will be eager to see if he can replicate that success in the game. Bills WR Keon Coleman, expected to fill the void left by Stefon Diggs, will also be looking to make an impact.
Sunday Evening:
– Packers at Broncos (8:00 PM ET)
– Saints at 49ers (8:00 PM ET)
Analysis:
Broncos QB Bo Nix has impressed during the preseason, and another strong performance could solidify his position as the team’s starter. The Packers’ projected fifth and sixth WRs, Bo Melton and Grant DuBose, will also be vying for a roster spot and will be looking to make an impression.
Insights from Justin Jefferson:
Justin Jefferson, the Minnesota Vikings’ star receiver, recently shared his advice for players awaiting mega-deals. He emphasized the importance of staying focused on playing football and not getting distracted by contract negotiations or social media rumors. Jefferson’s approach of letting his agent and the team handle negotiations allowed him to maintain a clear head and continue performing at a high level.
Drake Maye’s Performance:
Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick, had an underwhelming stat line in his recent game, but his performance showcased his arm strength and ability to manipulate coverage. Despite some mistakes, Maye’s potential was evident, and fans are excited to see how he progresses.
Outlook for the Commanders:
The Commanders, under the leadership of GM Adam Peters, have undergone significant changes in their roster. While there is optimism for a potential nine-win season, the team’s offensive line, secondary, and overall depth remain areas of concern. With a rookie QB and numerous new faces, a more realistic projection for the Commanders is around 6-7 wins.
Injury Updates:
– Bills LB Matt Milano has sustained a season-altering injury, tearing his biceps muscle.
– Chargers QB Justin Herbert has shed his walking boot, signaling positive progress in his recovery.
– 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey has been seen running, cutting, and catching passes, indicating a positive development in his return from a calf injury.
– Vikings WR Jordan Addison’s ankle injury is not expected to keep him out for an extended period.
– Bengals RB Chris Evans will miss the 2024 season due to a torn patellar tendon.
– Raiders WR Davante Adams missed practice due to an undisclosed injury.
Conclusion:
This weekend’s preseason games offer an opportunity to assess the performance of both established stars and promising rookies. Fans will be looking to see how players like Michael Penix Jr., Drake Maye, and Anthony Richardson fare in their respective games. Additionally, the Commanders’ roster overhaul and the injury updates on key players add an extra layer of intrigue to the preseason.