In the third week of the 2024 NFL preseason, teams intensified their preparations for the regular season as they approached the crucial roster cutdown deadline on Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. The final preseason games provided many players their last opportunity to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. Some notable players, or obvious reasons, sat out to avoid the potential injury and allow other players to get a last look.
Here’s a recap of the key NFL games from Friday and Thursday:
Friday’s Matches:
San Francisco 49ers 24, Las Vegas Raiders 24
The Niners looked very defensive. As well, Josh Dobbs looked very efficient. Brock Purdy had short duty and 1 INT. The 49ers faced a setback when defensive ends Leonard Floyd and Yetur Gross-Matos suffered knee injuries early in their game against the Raiders. The severity of their injuries is still unknown, which could force the 49ers to reassess their defensive line depth, potentially impacting other areas like cornerback or linebacker.
For the Raiders, the decision on whether to keep two or three quarterbacks remains unresolved. Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell are the current favorites, but UDFA Carter Bradley and veteran Nathan Peterman are also in the backup mix. Peterman led a two-minute touchdown drive, while Bradley showed promise but also had spot struggles.
Jacksonville Jaguars 31, Atlanta Falcons 0
The Jags played their starters, the Falcons didn’t. The Jaguars’ preseason finale showcased a competition for the sixth receiver spot between Elijah Cooks and Tim Jones. Jones, noted for his special teams contributions, had limited offensive exposure, while Cooks made a stronger case with several catches and a touchdown. Trevor Lawrence (2 TDs to his TE), Travis Etienne Jr., Evan Engram (2 TDs), Mac Jones (1 TD to Elijah Cooks, D’Ernest Johnson, and Tank Bigsby were all solid.
I know preseason is not a good judge, but the 0-3 ATL Falcons did not put on a good showing. The two off-duty quarterbacks may have been working hard, but they looked rather pedestrian. Cornerback Natrone Brooks’ impressive preseason performances are challenging roster decisions. With veteran Kevin King possibly shifting to safety, Brooks’ chance to make the roster as a cornerback increases. Brooks’ versatility, including kick and punt returns, adds to his appeal.
In their second preseason game, the Atlanta Falcons opted to rest most of their key players, including the starting offense, defense, and backup quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who was a healthy scratch after playing in the preseason opener. The primary goal for the team was to simulate a game-day routine while giving third- and fourth-string players a chance to showcase their skills. Standout performances included receivers Casey Washington and Chris Blair, who each had multiple receptions, and running back Spencer Brown, who led the team in rushing yards. On defense, linebacker Donavan Mutin recorded a game-high 18 tackles, and cornerbacks Kevin King, Natrone Brooks, and rookie Jayden Price also had notable performances.
With roster cuts looming, the Falcons face difficult decisions, particularly at quarterback and defensive positions. Backup Taylor Heinicke’s inconsistent preseason has left his status uncertain, while undrafted rookie John Paddock’s limited attempts suggest he might be cut or practice-squad bound. Defensive versatility is another key issue, with Kevin King potentially shifting to safety to accommodate injuries and free up a roster spot for cornerbacks like Brooks. As the Falcons prepare for final roster decisions, the focus will be on making tough cuts and assembling a competitive team for the season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24, Miami Dolphins 14
The Dolphins’ battle for the backup quarterback role featured Mike White and Skylar Thompson. Thompson, despite a late interception, had a decent performance that could help him secure the No. 2 spot. Rookie Jaylen Wright and Malik Washington also stood out, with Wright on offense and Washington in the return game.
The Buccaneers saw promising performances from undrafted wide receiver Kameron Johnson and veteran Cody Thompson. Defensive end Earnest Brown IV and defensive tackle C.J. Brewer also made strong cases for roster spots.
Thursday Recap:
Indianapolis Colts 27, Cincinnati Bengals 14
The Colts finally gave extended playtime to their starters, including quarterback Anthony Richardson. Nick Cross appears to have solidified his spot as a starting safety. Defensive tackle Eric Johnson II made a notable play by forcing a fumble, while rookie Jason Bean’s solid showing might secure him a spot as the No. 3 quarterback. Noteworthy performances during the preseason have been put up by RB Tyler Goodson, DE Genard Avery, and LB Jaylon Carlies.
For the Bengals, undrafted linebacker Maema Njongmeta had a standout performance, leading the team in tackles and strengthening his case for a roster spot despite the competition.
Chicago Bears 34, Kansas City Chiefs 21
Bears receiver Velus Jones Jr. saw limited action, but his versatility and special teams contributions suggest he’s likely to make the final roster. The Bears appear committed to giving him opportunities, including experimenting with him at running back.
The Chiefs’ revamped wide receiver corps saw some action with Mecole Hardman and Kadarius Toney fighting for spots. Toney had a notable game, catching passes and returning punts, enhancing his chances to make the team.
As teams finalize their rosters, these performances will be crucial in determining the final 53-man lineups. Stay tuned for further updates as the regular season approaches.