As the NFL preseason winds down, several teams are finalizing their rosters and making key decisions. Quarterbacks are under scrutiny, with some rising stars and others facing challenges, while significant contract extensions and trades are reshaping team dynamics.
Quarterback Performances Highlight Preseason Week
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Ty Simpson continued to make a strong case for the backup job behind Matthew Stafford. In the Rams' preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers, Simpson led the team to three scoring drives, completing 18 of 23 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 11 rushing yards. His performance has put pressure on incumbent Stetson Bennett for the No. 2 role.
In contrast, Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick, had another difficult outing against the San Francisco 49ers. Playing into the third quarter, Mendoza completed 7 of 14 passes for 57 yards and threw an interception. Head coach Klint Kubiak has indicated a preference for Mendoza to redshirt this season and learn behind veteran Kirk Cousins, suggesting this performance may not significantly alter long-term plans.
For the Cleveland Browns, quarterback Dillon Gabriel seized an opportunity to impress in the absence of starter Deshaun Watson and backup Shedeur Sanders. Gabriel completed 12 of 15 passes for 186 yards and three touchdowns against the New England Patriots. His performance bolsters his case for a roster spot, potentially as the third-string quarterback, and may attract attention from other teams if he is not retained by Cleveland.
Key Roster Moves and Extensions
The Seattle Seahawks made a significant move by agreeing to a three-year, $90 million contract extension with defensive lineman Leonard Williams. The deal averages $30 million annually, making Williams one of the highest-paid interior defensive linemen in the league. Williams, a former second-team All-Pro, was acquired by Seattle from the New York Giants during the 2023 season. This extension follows other substantial offseason deals for wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
In a notable trade, the Miami Dolphins sent wide receiver Tutu Atwell back to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for running back Jarquez Hunter. Atwell, originally a second-round pick by the Rams in 2021, rejoins the team where he spent his first four seasons. He will add depth to a receiving corps that includes Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. Hunter, a 2025 fourth-round pick, provides depth for the Dolphins' backfield.
Contract Standoffs and Injury Updates
Ahead of the regular season, the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly facing contract disputes with their young cornerbacks. The Patriots and Christian Gonzalez remain far apart in negotiations, despite the team's offer to make him the highest-paid cornerback. The contract extension signed by Devon Witherspoon with Seattle has reportedly raised the market value for such players. Gonzalez has expressed frustration with the ongoing process.
Similarly, the Steelers and Joey Porter are not close to an agreement on a contract extension. Porter is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list with a back injury as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.
In injury news, Tennessee Titans wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson is being evaluated for a concussion after a hit during a joint practice. Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert led a scoring drive, including a 65-yard touchdown pass to Quentin Johnston, in his lone series against the Rams. Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen confirmed that wide receiver Keenan Allen and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner will play in the team's upcoming preseason game, and wide receiver Alec Pierce is being activated from the PUP list.