Sportsnaut
Even though preseason performances can not be measured in the same light as the regular season, teams still puit a lot of weight in how players react to live game scenarios. While there’s only been one week of NFL preseason action so far, it’s time to take a look at who’s stock is up and who’s is down early on.
After two rollercoaster seasons, is this the year Bryce Young finally puts it all together? Finally armed with some weapons, Young completed 4 of 6 passes for 56 yards and a quick touchdown in Week 1. Can he continue building momentum before the season starts?
The Cleveland Browns have a good problem on their hands after fifth-round rookie Shedeur Sanders lit it up in his preseason debut. It’s hard to suggest his stock is anywhere but improved since becoming the 144th overall pick.
He doesn’t appear to have a shot at winning the New York Giants’ starting QB job, but Jaxson Dart is doing everything in his power to give coaches second thoughts once Russell Wilson starts to struggle. The early returns on Dart will have the fanbase in his corner, which places Wilson in a very dangerous spot.
Even though he’s not getting the typical fanfare of a No. 1 overall pick, Cam Ward is boosting his stock while operating from the shadows. He’s been every bit as advertised so far, and he showed that the NFL wasn’t too big for him with a quick touchdown drive in the preseason.
Some wondered if Tetairoa McMillan would be too slow to beat NFL defenders in 1-on-1 situations. While he’s far from a speed demon, T-Mac has shown that he has no trouble getting open and even has built an early connection with his QB. McMillan could be looking at a big role as a rook.
The Indianapolis Colts have desperately needed a difference-making tight end. They just found one in Tyler Warren who looks like an all-out weapon. He may very well lead this team in targets, yards, and touchdowns.
While it’s just the preseason, getting three sacks in one game is impressive at any level. He may not be slated for a starting role, but Austin Booker, a 2024 fifth-round pick, certainly earned a few more snaps with his Week 1 preseason performance.
Not many players can say they scored a touchdown the very first time they touched the ball in the NFL. TreVeyon Henderson can, thanks to his 100-yard kick return touchdown this past weekend. Plays like that will certainly earn him more opportunities on special teams and with the starting offense.
Related: 5 Most Exciting Rookie Performances from NFL Preseason Week 1
The Miami Dolphins’ offense struggled as a whole, but sixth-round running back Ollie Gordon performed well. Not only did he lead the Dolphins with 33...
