The NFL preseason roared into action last week, signaling the return of football with high-energy performances and pivotal plays. While the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears made their debuts earlier, the rest of the league joined in over the past four days, setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.
Rookies and Veterans Shine
All eyes were on Caleb Williams as he stepped onto the field for his season debut against the Buffalo Bills. Williams, who played 18 snaps on Saturday, showed promise by completing 4 of 7 pass attempts for 95 yards and adding 13 yards on the ground. Although it was a brief appearance, his versatility and composure were evident.
Meanwhile, Bo Nix had a significant impact despite not starting the game. With Jarrett Stidham taking the opening snaps, Nix came in to complete 15 of 21 pass attempts for 125 yards and one touchdown. Not just a threat through the air, Nix also contributed 17 rushing yards. His average of 5.4 yards per attempt, as noted by TruMedia, underscores his effectiveness in moving the chains.
J.J. McCarthy made his mark with an impressive stat line, completing 11 of 17 passes for 188 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. However, his night was slightly marred by a late-game interception by Jack Jones. On the flip side, Michael Penix Jr. connected on 9 of his 16 attempts for 104 yards, delivering a solid performance that helped his team's efforts.
Running Back Showcase
The preseason saw three rookie running backs making significant contributions. Bucky Irving, Audric Estime, and Jaylen Wright each found their way into the end zone, showcasing their potential to be impactful players in the regular season. These performances underline the depth and talent entering the league at the running back position.
Defensive Standouts
On the defensive side of the ball, several players delivered noteworthy performances. Austin Booker of the Bears tallied 2.5 sacks, wreaking havoc in the backfield and setting a high bar for the season. Dallas Turner, wearing the Minnesota Vikings' colors, registered his first professional sack, marking a milestone in his budding career. Cincinnati's Josh Newton also made a key play with an interception, highlighting a weekend filled with defensive prowess.
Player Movements and Injuries
Dominick Puni's start at right guard for the San Francisco 49ers signifies his growing role within the team. Navigating the trenches, Puni's performance will be critical for the 49ers offensive line as they prepare for the regular season.
Unfortunately, not all the news was positive. Kirk Cousins was sidelined due to an injury, leaving fans and team staff anxious about his recovery and return. His absence will be closely monitored as the team progresses through the preseason.
Catching the Eye
In the receiving department, Will Shipley and Jermaine Burton each caught a touchdown, providing a glimpse of their capability to be reliable targets. These catches not only boosted their teams' morale but also showed their readiness to contribute when it counts.
As the preseason continues, these early performances set the tone for what promises to be an exciting NFL season. With rookies making strong debuts and seasoned players continuing to excel, fans have much to look forward to as the action unfolds on the gridiron.