The NFL preseason has officially kicked off, ushering in a fresh wave of excitement and anticipation for football fans around the nation. The action began last week with a face-off between the Houston Texans and the Chicago Bears, setting the stage for this year’s journey to the regular season.
Young Quarterbacks Show Promise
All eyes were particularly on Caleb Williams as he made his season debut against the Buffalo Bills. Williams' brief appearance saw him take 18 snaps, completing 4 out of 7 pass attempts for an impressive 95 yards. He also showcased his dual-threat capability, adding 13 yards on the ground. The showing, albeit limited, suggested that Williams is poised to become a key player for his team this season.
Bo Nix, despite not starting the game, turned in a noteworthy performance. Jarrett Stidham commenced the game, but Nix stepped in and made a significant impact. Completing 15 of 21 pass attempts, Nix amassed 125 yards and threw one touchdown, achieving an average of 5.4 yards per attempt according to TruMedia. Additionally, he contributed 17 rushing yards, further highlighting his versatility and readiness to compete at the professional level.
J.J. McCarthy, another young quarterback worth watching, delivered a solid performance by completing 11 of 17 pass attempts for 188 yards, throwing two touchdowns along with one interception. Despite a late-game interception by Jack Jones, McCarthy's overall efforts left a positive impression.
Michael Penix Jr. also displayed his skills, connecting on 9 of 16 pass attempts for 104 yards. Jayden Daniels had a mixed outing; he completed 2 of 3 pass attempts for 45 yards, with one screen pass going astray over his intended receiver. However, Daniels redeemed himself with a remarkable 3-yard rushing touchdown, demonstrating his versatility on the field.
Drake Maye had a quieter game, completing 2 of 3 pass attempts for 19 yards, but his potential remains evident as he continues to adjust to the professional game.
Rookie Running Backs and Key Performances
Several first-year running backs made notable contributions, finding their way into the end zone. Bucky Irving, Audric Estime, and Jaylen Wright each scored touchdowns, showing they have the potential to make a significant impact this season.
On the defensive side, Dominick Puni started at right guard for the San Francisco 49ers, while Austin Booker recorded 2.5 sacks for the Bears. Dallas Turner also made his mark with his first professional sack for the Minnesota Vikings, signaling a bright future ahead.
Defensive Highlights and Veteran Setbacks
Josh Newton showed his defensive prowess by securing an interception for Cincinnati, showcasing his ability to disrupt the opposition. However, the excitement of new talent was tempered by veteran setbacks. Kirk Cousins was notably sidelined due to injury, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming season.
In terms of receiving, Will Shipley and Jermaine Burton both caught touchdowns, adding to the offensive firepower displayed during the preseason matchups.
As the preseason progresses, these performances offer a glimpse into the potential and readiness of both new and returning players. The blend of emerging talent and seasoned veterans sets a promising stage for the upcoming NFL season, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.