Tonight marks the beginning of a new season as the NFL wraps up its preseason, paving the way for the much-anticipated 2023 campaign. The Detroit Lions and the Super Bowl defending champion Kansas City Chiefs kick things off with the first game of the regular season at 8:20 P.M. EST. As we embark on the countdown to kickoff, it’s an opportune moment to ponder the insights gained from the preseason battles and drama.
1. Coaches Empowering Assistants: NFL coaches are finding new ways to elevate assistant coaches during exhibition games. Some have empowered non-play calling coordinators or assistants to call plays in preseason contests, providing valuable experience for their coaching staff.
2. The Rise of Joint Practices: Joint practices gained popularity over preseason games for many teams during training camp. These practices offer controlled environments for teams to work on specific aspects of the game and reduce injury risks, especially for quarterbacks who are off-limits to contact. However, not all teams subscribe to joint practices, emphasizing the value of preseason games.
3. Jury’s Out on New Packers/Jets QBs: Aaron Rodgers made his Jets debut in a preseason finale, showing promise and leading a touchdown drive. Meanwhile, in Green Bay, Jordan Love performed well in preseason appearances, sparking hope for a smooth transition post-Rodgers.
4. Clarity in Quarterback Competitions: Throughout the preseason, quarterback battles across the league were resolved. In San Francisco, Brock Purdy secured the starting role, surprising many by beating out Trey Lance, who was subsequently traded to the Dallas Cowboys. Baker Mayfield won the starting QB job in Tampa Bay, marking his third consecutive Week 1 start for a different team. In Washington, Sam Howell was named the starter, adding to the list of quarterbacks for the Commanders since 2017. The Colts went with rookie Anthony Richardson as their starter over Gardner Minshew, extending their streak of different opening-game starters to eight seasons.
5. First-Round Rookie Quarterback Report: Top overall pick Bryce Young faced challenges in Carolina due to offensive line issues but showed improvement as the preseason progressed. C.J. Stroud, the Texans’ second-overall pick, also displayed growth despite limited preseason action.
6. The Panthers’ Bryce Young Dilemma: Top pick Bryce Young faced challenges in Carolina, primarily due to issues with the offensive line. However, as the preseason progressed, he displayed improvement. His performance in the preseason finale, going 7 of 12 for 73 yards and a touchdown, showed promise.
7. The Raiders’ Potential QB Solution: While it’s early to make bold predictions, Aidan O’Connell has shown promise as the Raiders’ quarterback. The rookie out of Purdue led scoring drives in significant preseason action, completing 70% of his throws without an interception.
8. The NFC East Promises Excitement: The NFC East appears competitive, with the Eagles and Cowboys boasting strong rosters. Trey Lance provides depth behind Dak Prescott, while Daniel Jones and Sam Howell show promise. The key will be the health of key players and how well they adapt to new surroundings.
9. Buyer Beware of the Dolphins’ Health: Injuries have plagued the Dolphins, raising concerns about their prospects for the season. Star acquisition Jalen Ramsey suffered a serious knee injury, and several other players have been battling ailments, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
10. Chiefs’ Wide Receiver Concerns Resolved: The Chiefs have found promising young receivers to support Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes. Skyy Moore, Rashee Rice, and Ihmir Smith-Marsette have demonstrated big-play ability, easing concerns about the receiving corps.
11. Steelers’ Offense Poised for Improvement: Kenny Pickett’s performance in the preseason, aided by talented receivers, suggests a brighter offensive outlook for the Steelers. With an upgraded offensive line and key playmakers, they aim to make a bigger impact in the AFC North.
12. Don’t Discount Another Rams Collapse: The Rams, after an injury-marred Super Bowl season, have some concerns. While they retain Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp, Stafford’s top backup, Stetson Bennett, has shown some struggles with accuracy during the preseason.
13. Derrick Henry’s Potential Historic Season: The Titans’ offense hinges on Derrick Henry’s performance. With the addition of DeAndre Hopkins and a revamped O-line, the Titans aim to unleash Henry’s potential for another 2,000-yard rushing season.
14. Jordan Love’s Promising Preseason: With Aaron Rodgers’ move to the Jets, Jordan Love takes center stage for the Packers. His efficient, composed, and productive performance during the preseason has eased concerns about Rodgers’ departure.
15. A Tale of Contracts, Trades, and Holdouts:
The NFL landscape has been buzzing with major developments that have captivated football enthusiasts. In San Francisco, Nick Bosa, the reigning AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has made headlines with a groundbreaking contract extension. The San Francisco 49ers secured Bosa for the long haul, agreeing to a lucrative five-year deal worth $170 million. This substantial contract includes an impressive $122.5 million in guaranteed money.
With this deal, Bosa now holds the title of the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history, boasting an average annual salary of $34 million. This significant milestone surpasses the previous record held by Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams, whose average annual salary was $31.7 million.
While Bosa’s future with the 49ers is secure, the saga with running back Jonathan Taylor in Indianapolis continues. The Colts have granted Taylor permission to seek a trade, stirring speculation about his next destination. However, it’s worth noting that the Colts decided not to make a trade with either the Dolphins or Eagles for Jonathan Taylor, and he won’t be able to be traded until Oct. 31st.
In another contract standoff, Kansas City faces uncertainty with Chris Jones. Jones, a prominent figure on the Chiefs’ defense, has been holding out of camp and has hinted at his willingness to miss games if necessary. This situation adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing contract negotiations in the NFL.
As the NFL season begins, these preseason insights set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable year of football. The drama, competition, and potential records in the making make this upcoming season one to watch closely.
