Hello football enthusiasts! As we approach the middle of the work week, the Wednesday edition of the Pick Six newsletter brings the exciting anticipation of the final week of the NFL preseason.
Tomorrow heralds the start of this critical period with a doubleheader featuring the Indianapolis Colts taking on the Cincinnati Bengals and the Chicago Bears facing off against the Kansas City Chiefs. This four-day stretch will be pivotal for players and coaches alike as they make final roster decisions ahead of the regular season kickoff.
The High Stakes of Preseason Finales
It’s a tense time for many NFL hopefuls. Competitions observed throughout training camp culminate during this period, as players make their final push to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Each of the 32 NFL teams must trim down their squad from 90 players, resulting in a wave of movements that can provide opportunities for other teams to bolster their ranks via waivers or trades.
Analyst Josh Edwards has pinpointed certain overcrowded position groups that might see quality players become available. For instance, the Pittsburgh Steelers boast a loaded defensive front featuring veterans like Cameron Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, Montravius Adams, and Dean Lowry, while keeping second-year defensive tackle Keeanu Benton off-limits.
The New York Giants’ wide receiver corps is another notable group stacked with talents such as Malik Nabers, Wan'Dale Robinson, Jalin Hyatt, Darius Slayton, and veterans like Miles Boykin, Allen Robinson II, and Isaiah McKenzie. Their depth could very well lead to some interesting roster decisions.
Focus on Key Players and Teams
Some starters might be held out of these final exhibitions to avoid potential injuries, making space for budding talents to showcase their abilities. For example, in the Philadelphia Eagles’ camp, the spotlight remains on A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith who have been sensational forces in the offense led by Jalen Hurts. Brown has nearly reached 1,500 yards in consecutive seasons, while Smith has carved out his niche as a reliable jump-ball and tough-catch expert.
The Miami Dolphins continue to flaunt their dynamic duo of Tyreek Hill, who was on pace for nearly 2,000 yards last season, and Jaylen Waddle, an all-star deep-ball threat and high-volume possession receiver.
A rather unexpected incident occurred at the Dallas Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard, California. Their hotel caught fire due to an emergency in an empty guest room. Responding swiftly, the Oxnard Fire Department contained the situation with no reported injuries, ensuring that the Cowboys could continue their preparations uninterrupted. The Cowboys will wrap up their preseason against the Los Angeles Chargers at AT&T Stadium on Saturday.
Rookie Decisions and Veteran Moves
The New England Patriots face a crucial decision regarding rookie quarterback Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick. While Maye has shown flashes of potential, he's also struggled in specific scenarios such as two-minute drills. The Patriots' coaching staff, including head coach Mayo, seems to prioritize consistent practice performance over singular game-day schemes to judge his readiness. "There’s nothing more important than practice," Mayo stated, emphasizing the importance of day-to-day improvement.
On the other hand, the Patriots have veteran Jacoby Brissett, who is on his second stint with the team. Brissett's extensive experience across four other NFL teams and significant play-time could offer a steadier hand as Maye continues to develop.
Controversial Comments Stir Reactions
Off the field, tensions flared as former Dolphins head coach and current Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores addressed criticisms from Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa who recently labeled him a "terrible person." In response, Flores reflected thoughtfully, "Look, I'm human. So that hit me in a way that wasn’t... positive for me. But at the same time, I've got to use that and say, 'Hey, how can I grow from that?'... Do I feel like that's me? No. But how can I grow from that situation and create a world where that's not the case that anyone says that about Brian Flores?" The measured response underscores Flores' commitment to personal growth and professional integrity.
This final week of the preseason is more than just games—it's the culmination of months of effort, strategy, and ambition, and for many players, it's a defining moment in their careers. As the NFL teams make their last evaluations and decisions, fans can anticipate an action-packed end to the preseason and look forward to the thrilling regular season just around the corner.