As we dive into Week 2 of the NFL preseason, there are numerous intriguing storylines to follow. With teams looking to fine-tune their rosters and build momentum, each game offers something worth watching. Here’s a closer look at what to keep an eye on for each matchup:
Atlanta Falcons vs. Baltimore Ravens
The Falcons, who had a mixed bag in their preseason opener, are now dealing with significant injuries. Wide receiver Rondale Moore and rookie edge rusher Bralen Trice are out for the season, while safety DeMarcco Hellams will miss significant time. This leaves Atlanta with holes to fill, particularly in pass rush and safety depth. The recent trade for Matt Judon and the signing of Justin Simmons are steps to address these gaps. For the Ravens, despite their reputation for a fierce pass rush, they struggled to generate pressure in their opener. With key players like Malik Hamm on IR, Baltimore needs to find alternative pressure sources, especially against the Falcons’ offensive line.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Chicago Bears
The Bengals are facing a setback with first-round pick Amarius Mims out for a while, but Trent Brown provides some reassurance at tackle. However, the real story could be edge rusher Myles Murphy, who is showing promising signs of a breakout. The Bears, on the other hand, are evaluating quarterback Caleb Williams’ progress and dealing with some offensive line injuries. The performance of their O-line against a strong Bengals defense will be crucial, especially with Williams needing a solid environment to continue his development.
New York Giants vs. Houston Texans
For the Giants, the injury to Malik Nabers is a blow, but Daniel Jones is set to play, offering a chance to see if he can build on his camp success. With key players like C John Michael Schmitz and RT Evan Neal possibly returning, the Giants' offense has some key areas to prove itself. The Texans are struggling with their run game and will need a strong showing against the Giants to build consistency. The return of RB Joe Mixon and LT Laremy Tunsil should help, and rookie Jawhar Jordan could provide a much-needed spark.
Detroit Lions vs. Kansas City Chiefs
The Lions’ backup roles are up for grabs, with standout performances from rookies like Isaiah Williams and battles at running back and quarterback. On the Chiefs’ side, the focus is on their cornerbacks. With L'Jarius Sneed traded, Trent McDuffie is expected to lead, but there are concerns about the other cornerback positions. A solid performance against the Lions could help solidify these roles ahead of the regular season.
Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns
The Vikings are evaluating several key players, including safety Lewis Cine and quarterback Jaren Hall, amid a tough camp. The Browns are dealing with injuries and a lack of offensive cohesion. With Deshaun Watson not playing and Nick Chubb sidelined, the Browns need their receivers and offensive line to step up. The performance of players like Jamari Thrash and the development of offensive line depth will be crucial.
New York Jets vs. Carolina Panthers
The Jets are dealing with Haason Reddick’s trade request, which adds intrigue to their defensive roster battles. Key players like Takk McKinley and undrafted rookie Braiden McGregor are fighting for spots. The Panthers’ receiver depth is in focus, particularly for players like Terrace Marshall Jr. and Jonathan Mingo, who need to make strong cases for roster spots, especially with the competition heating up.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Indianapolis Colts
With Kyler Murray out for the preseason, the Cardinals are evaluating quarterbacks Desmond Ridder and Clayton Tune. The performance of these two will be pivotal as the team decides on their quarterback depth. The Colts are focused on their rookies, including edge rusher Laiatu Latu and receiver Adonai Mitchell. Strong performances from these players could impact their regular-season roles.
Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins
The Commanders are looking at their offensive tackle and secondary positions, with rookie tight end Ben Sinnott showing promise. The Dolphins need to address their backup quarterback situation, with both Skylar Thompson and Mike White struggling in their opener. The performance in this game could be crucial in determining the final QB2 spot.
Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
For the Bills, rookie Ray Davis had an uneven start but needs a strong performance to secure a backup role. The Steelers are evaluating their quarterback situation, with both Justin Fields and Russell Wilson vying for the starting spot. The game against the Bills will be a key test for their offensive cohesion and effectiveness.
Seattle Seahawks vs. Tennessee Titans
The Seahawks are assessing their backup receivers, with Jake Bobo, Laviska Shenault Jr., and Dareke Young fighting for spots. The Titans showed promise in their opener with Will Levis and their revamped offensive line. Continued strong performances from these areas could boost their offensive outlook.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Los Angeles Chargers
For the Rams, Stetson Bennett’s erratic preseason performance raises questions about his reliability as a backup. The Chargers, without Justin Herbert, need to see more from their offense and wide receivers, including Brenden Rice, to solidify their roster decisions.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Buccaneers’ running back competition is heating up, with rookie Sean Tucker making a strong case. The Jaguars are excited about the progress of their 2023 draft picks, Tank Bigsby and Parker Washington. Continued strong performances will be key for securing roles in the regular season.
Dallas Cowboys vs. Las Vegas Raiders
The Cowboys are watching Mazi Smith’s development closely, hoping for a stronger showing this week. The Raiders’ quarterback battle remains unsettled, with Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew both needing to make a strong impression.
Green Bay Packers vs. Denver Broncos
The Packers’ deep wide receiver room means tough roster decisions are on the horizon. Key receivers like Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs are set, but others will need to impress to secure spots. The Broncos are looking for a solid performance to continue their winning streak and build on their preseason success.
This weekend’s games will provide further clarity on these key storylines as teams inch closer to the regular season.
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