The NFL preseason is in full swing, signaling the beginning of a fresh wave of excitement for football fans nationwide. The early action kicked off with the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears last week, paving the way for the rest of the league to join the fray over the past four days.
Caleb Williams Takes the Field
Among the standout players in the initial preseason matchups was Caleb Williams, who made his season debut against the Buffalo Bills. Williams participated in 18 snaps, demonstrating promise despite limited playtime. He completed 4 of his 7 pass attempts, racking up 95 yards. His performance wasn’t just through the air; he also added 13 yards on the ground.
Bo Nix Shines in Relief
Bo Nix did not start the game, as Jarrett Stidham took the initial snaps. However, when Nix got his chance, he seized it. Completing 15 of his 21 pass attempts, Nix accumulated 125 yards and notched a touchdown. Additionally, he contributed 17 rushing yards, complementing his air assault with a sturdy ground game. According to TruMedia, Nix averaged 5.4 yards per attempt, showcasing his efficiency.
J.J. McCarthy and Jack Jones in a Test of Wills
J.J. McCarthy had a mixed outing, completing 11 of 17 pass attempts for 188 yards. He threw two touchdowns, but also one interception – a late-game pick by Jack Jones. It was a classic clash, with McCarthy's highs and lows offering plenty of drama on the field.
Promising Starts for Other Quarterbacks
Michael Penix Jr. had a solid showing, connecting on 9 of his 16 pass attempts for 104 yards. Meanwhile, Jayden Daniels delivered a more modest performance, completing 2 of 3 passes for 45 yards. However, he had a memorable moment rushing into the end zone for a 3-yard touchdown, even after a screen pass previously sailed over his intended receiver's head.
Drake Maye also saw limited action, completing 2 of 3 pass attempts for 19 yards, but it's clear he too holds potential as the season progresses.
Running Backs Turning Heads
This preseason has also showcased the talents of several first-year running backs. Bucky Irving, Audric Estime, and Jaylen Wright each found the end zone, indicating a promising start for these fresh faces in the NFL scene.
Defensive Standouts
On the defensive side, Dominick Puni started at right guard for the San Francisco 49ers, anchoring the line effectively. Austin Booker was a force for the Chicago Bears, recording 2.5 sacks. Dallas Turner made his mark for the Minnesota Vikings with his first professional sack. The interception talent was on display as well, with Josh Newton snagging one for Cincinnati.
Veterans and Injuries
Not all news was positive, however. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins was sidelined due to an injury, a significant blow to his team. As the preseason progresses, the focus will be on his recovery and readiness for the regular season.
There were also offensive bright spots, with Will Shipley and Jermaine Burton each catching a touchdown, showcasing their readiness for the competitive season ahead.
As the preseason continues, teams and fans alike will be watching closely. These early performances set the tone for what promises to be another thrilling NFL season, filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable moments on the gridiron.