NFL Preseason Week 2 Standouts

Week 2 of the NFL preseason is in the books, which means that we are creeping ever closer to the start of the regular season. Many teams used this slate of games to get a look at players who might play important roles in September, or who might be called upon if there is a key injury to a starter. We’ll spotlight players who did well for themselves during Week 2 preseason action.

With the projected return to glory of quarterback Deshaun Watson comes the expectation that Cleveland will turn into a more pass-heavy team in 2023. If that’s their plan, they will need receivers opposite of Amari Cooper to step up. Watkins might be a name to keep an eye on, as he posted 139 yards on seven catches with one touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Giants vaulted back into playoff contention a year ago on the strength of Jones’ mobility, but New York is hoping to see him continue to improve as a passer. In a short sample size, he performed well through the air. He went 8/9 for 69 yards, including a touchdown pass to tight end Daniel Bellinger.

The Jaguars invested a first round pick on Travis Etienne in 2021 and are excited to deploy him as a well-rounded weapon this season. However, 2023 third round pick Tank Bigsby is having an excellent preseason, and may steal some touches this year. The former Auburn back recorded 70 yards on 13 carries against the Detroit Lions.

A lot of attention will be paid to Tua Tagovailoa’s health. If he goes down at any point, Miami might turn to Skylar Thompson under center. He started the playoff game in relief of Tagovailoa last season, and had an impressive game against the Houston Texans this weekend. Thompson tossed three touchdowns in the win.

Just like the Jaguars, the Steelers used prime draft capital on a running back in the recent past. Najee Harris figures to be the bellcow for Pittsburgh this season, but Warren is showing that he may deserve some work as well. He broke a 62 yard touchdown run against the Buffalo Bills, displaying breakaway speed that might add a different element to the offense.

Besides the significant targets that Travis Kelce will deservedly command, other roles in the Kansas City offense are wide open. Patrick Mahomes will look to develop a rapport with guys he can trust, and Rice might be on the radar in that regard. The rookie caught eight passes for 96 yards in a preseason victory over the Arizona Cardinals.

A quick scan of Williams’ statistics from Week 2 isn’t going to blow anyone away. However, the Broncos showed that they weren’t afraid to utilize him in the running game and the passing game. This is an important development for Williams, who is coming back from an ACL injury he suffered a year ago.

The 49ers arguably have the most talented set of skill position players in the NFL, so it’s going to be hard for younger players to earn snaps. With that said, Bell had a great game in Week 2, catching seven passes for 114 yards. If Bell can replicate that performance in the final preseason game, San Francisco may have a difficult decision to make on final cut day.

Terry McLaurin has been the Washington receiver who has overcome suspect quarterback play to produce in recent seasons, but Dotson may soon be viewed as the Commanders’ number one option. The second-year player was mighty effective against the Baltimore Ravens, hauling in five passes for 76 yards. He also led the team in targets with seven.