As the NFL preseason enters its final week, several storylines have emerged, including controversial quarterback decisions, unprecedented player eligibility discussions, and the emergence of potential breakout stars.
Browns' Quarterback Situation Under Scrutiny
The Cleveland Browns have named Deshaun Watson their starting quarterback, a decision that has drawn criticism following his performance in a recent preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. Watson completed just 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards and an interception, leading to boos from the home crowd. His subsequent remarks, suggesting the booing was personal rather than performance-related, were met with further criticism. Despite a lackluster preseason showing, with a 61.0 passer rating over two games, head coach Todd Monken opted for Watson's veteran presence, citing the team's challenging early-season schedule with numerous road games. This decision came over the younger quarterback Shedeur Sanders, whose passer rating was slightly higher at 65.2. Sources indicated Monken believed Watson's experience would benefit a young team, though his play has not justified this faith. The choice has been seen as delaying any hope for the future, with Sanders expected to eventually get an opportunity.
The Unprecedented Transfer Portal and NIL Landscape
A peculiar trend has emerged where some marginal NFL players are exploring a return to college football, fueled by Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Tight end Dae’Quan Wright, an undrafted rookie with the Browns, entered the transfer portal and was subsequently waived, making him eligible to play for LSU. Browns coach Todd Monken expressed bewilderment at this development. Similarly, Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Jack Pyburn, who had a strong preseason showing, is among players who have obtained temporary restraining orders that could allow them to return to college. Pyburn played at LSU last year, raising the possibility of an active NFL player returning to college. While NFL practice squad players earn a significant salary, college NIL deals could potentially offer three to four times that amount. Pyburn stated that his decision would be made with his family and agents, considering the best business and career options. This situation presents new challenges for NFL teams in roster management, as players might prioritize lucrative college NIL deals over a spot on an NFL practice squad. The league faces the complex task of navigating the ramifications, including the potential for players to regain draft eligibility after being passed over once, a scenario already seen in other sports.
Quarterback Battles and Comebacks
In Los Angeles, Stetson Bennett has seemingly solidified his position as the Rams' backup quarterback, outperforming Ty Simpson. Bennett led the Rams to scoring drives on four of his five possessions, finishing with 181 passing yards and two rushing touchdowns. Head coach Sean McVay praised Bennett's use of his legs, though cautioned against risky plays near the end zone. Meanwhile, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones appears to be recovering well from an Achilles tear. He has been participating fully in joint practices with the Atlanta Falcons, showing no limitations in his movement or throwing ability. Jones was playing at a high level last season before his injury, and early signs suggest he can continue that trajectory. The Colts' pass-catching group, set to include Keenan Allen and Josh Downs, is expected to support Jones upon the return of sidelined receivers.
Emerging Receivers and Roster Battles
The Kansas City Chiefs' training camp has seen significant buzz around rookie wide receiver Cyrus Allen, a sixth-round pick. Allen has impressed with highlight-reel plays and has even seen time with the first-team offense alongside Patrick Mahomes. Coach Andy Reid acknowledged Allen's performance, noting the quarterback's trust in him. Despite the hype, projections suggest a more conservative target volume for Allen in his rookie season, with the immediate goal being to secure a WR3 spot on the depth chart. In San Francisco, second-round pick De’Zhaun Stribling is making a case for a significant role with the 49ers. He leads the team in preseason receptions with 11 for 109 yards. His ability to make contested catches and his potential for YAC (yards after catch) are seen as key assets in Kyle Shanahan's offense, especially with Ricky Pearsall out for the year and Brandon Aiyuk no longer on the roster. Shanahan has praised Stribling's coachability and demeanor. The Buffalo Bills' wide receiver corps, however, remains a point of concern. Despite acquiring veteran D.J. Moore, the team is dealing with injuries to other key receivers like Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir. Rookie Skyler Bell has also missed time. This thin receiving group, even with the presence of quarterback Josh Allen, raises questions about the team's ability to surround their star quarterback with adequate pass-catching talent as they aim for a Super Bowl.