The midpoint of the 2024 NFL preseason has brought a mix of intense competition and emerging storylines as teams use Week 2 as a pivotal dress rehearsal. With joint practices dominating this week's agenda, the stakes are high for players vying for crucial positions and for teams working to solidify their rosters ahead of the regular season.
Quarterback Battles Heating Up
In New England, the quarterback battle between Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye is capturing attention. The choice is particularly consequential for the Patriots, given their offensive struggles. "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," noted an insider. This decision looms large as the Patriots seek stability under center amidst their ongoing rebuild.
Down in Atlanta, while Kirk Cousins is comfortably set as the starter, Michael Penix Jr. is making a strong push for opportunities. Penix's preseason debut saw him complete 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards, leading the team to 10 points over five possessions and earning a passer rating of 76.0. Although these numbers may not guarantee him a starting spot, they place him firmly in the conversation for more playing time.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears are navigating the early stages of their offense under rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams impressed in his preseason opener, completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards, achieving a passer rating of 101.8. "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," an analyst pointed out. The Bears hope that these live reps will accelerate Williams's development and prepare him for the regular season.
Injury Concerns and Emerging Talent
Injuries have also played a defining role in the preseason narrative. The New York Giants suffered a setback as Malik Nabers endured an ankle injury in the preseason opener. This has opened up a competition between Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson for the WR2 position, aiming to complement Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins.
For the Kansas City Chiefs, rookie Xavier Worthy may need to step up due to a shoulder injury sustained by Hollywood Brown and the potential suspension of Rashee Rice. Kansas City's wide receiver group, featuring Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross, must now prepare for the possibility of starting the season without two key players.
Running Backs Making Waves
The Tennessee Titans’ running game is showing promise with new additions Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. In their preseason opener, Spears scored a touchdown, while Pollard had an impressive 24-yard run. The duo combined for 37 yards over seven carries, offering a glimpse into the potential firepower of the Titans' backfield.
Defensive Standouts and Tight Competitions
On the defensive front, Laiatu Latu continues to shine, leading the FBS with a 23.9% pressure rate during his time at UCLA. As the Miami Dolphins look to strengthen their quarterback room, Skylar Thompson and Mike White are competing for the role of backup quarterback. Thompson outperformed White in the preseason opener, finishing 8 of 19 for 95 yards with a touchdown and an interception, whereas White completed merely 4 of 14 for 26 yards against second- and third-team players. "We’re unsure just how good he is because he’s been on the injured list," said an evaluator, leaving lingering questions about White's ability to secure a roster spot.
Rising Stars and Further Developments
In Minnesota, Jordan Addison escaped a serious injury scare, ensuring that the Vikings’ offense retains its depth. Justin Jefferson, expected to have limited snaps this preseason, remains a focal point. Trishton Jackson has stepped up notably, securing 100 yards on four catches with a touchdown last week, showing the potential to contribute significantly as the season progresses.
The San Francisco 49ers are being cautious with Ricky Pearsall, who has been hampered by hamstring and shoulder problems throughout training camp. Meanwhile, in Denver, Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham provided contrasting performances in the Broncos' preseason opener. Nix completed 15 of 21 for 125 yards with a touchdown, while Stidham managed only 4 of 7 for 37 yards with an interception, making the backup quarterback situation an intriguing one to follow.
Amid all these developments, the NFL preseason continues to be a proving ground for rookies and veterans alike. As teams work through their dress rehearsals and face the pressures of joint practices, decisions made now will echo into the regular season. Each game, each practice, and each play become critical pieces in the grand puzzle of the upcoming NFL season.