Fantasy Football Preseason Takeaways - Week 3

  

Arizona Cardinals Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Cardinals sat all notables. QB Kyler Murray, RB James Conner, WR Michael Wilson, WR Greg Dortch, and TE Trey McBride didn't play at all this preseason.

Week 2

The Cardinals again sat most notables:

• QB Kyler Murray
• RB James Conner
• WR Marvin Harrison
• WR Michael Wilson
• WR Greg Dortch
• WR Zay Jones
• TE Trey McBride

RB Trey Benson started for the second straight week and operated as Arizona's lead ball-carrier with the starting offense. Benson ran well, taking nine carries for 43 yards (4.8 YPC). He ceded most passing-down snaps, though, running just four routes compared to 10 total for RBs Emeri Demercado and Michael Carter. Benson remains the handcuff to RB James Conner but is unlikely to have standalone fantasy value, at least early in the season.

Here are all of Benson's carries, including a 20-yard run called back by a holding penalty:

Week 1

The Cardinals rested:

• QB Kyler Murray
• RB James Conner
• RB Emari Demercado
• WR Michael Wilson
• WR Greg Dortch
• WR Zay Jones
• TE Trey McBride

RB Trey Benson started over RB Michael Carter -- a good sign for the rookie. Benson mustered only 21 yards on eight carries (2.6 YPC), but the Cardinals rested all of their starting offensive linemen. Here are all of Benson's carries.

WR Marvin Harrison got his feet wet with three snaps on the opening drive before calling it a night. He wasn't targeted.

     

Atlanta Falcons Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Falcons once again sat all notables. QB Kirk Cousins, RB Bijan Robinson, WR Drake London, and TE Kyle Pitts didn't play at all this preseason.

Week 2

The Falcons sat all notables for the second straight week. That even included QB Michael Penix this time.

Week 1

The Falcons sat all their key offensive pieces:

• QB Kirk Cousins
• RB Bijan Robinson
• RB Tyler Allgeier
• WR Drake London
• WR Darnell Mooney
• WR Ray-Ray McCloud
• TE Kyle Pitts

QB Michael Penix got the start and played 24 snaps. He completed nine of 16 passes (56.3%) for 104 yards (6.5 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs. Penix' plus arm was on display on a few occasions, particularly this 41-yarder down the right sideline. He had a healthy 8.6-yard average target depth for the game.

Atlanta had three WRs on the field for 23 of Penix's 24 snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. It's confirmation that this Zac Robinson-led offense will look much different than last year's Falcons -- and that the team's No. 3 WR could be fantasy-relevant. That's Ray-Ray McCloud right now.

 

    

Baltimore Ravens Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Ravens rested all notables for the third straight game.

Week 2

The Ravens sat all notables for the second straight week.

Week 1

The Ravens did not play:

• QB Lamar Jackson
• RB Derrick Henry
• RB Justice Hill
• WR Zay Flowers
• WR Rashod Bateman
• WR Nelson Agholor
• TE Mark Andrews
• TE Isaiah Likely

RB Rasheen Ali entered the game after RB Owen Wright and finished with just 26 yards on his 10 carries. The rookie has work to do to win the No. 3 RB job.

    

Buffalo Bills Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Bills sat all notables.

Week 2

QB Josh Allen was expected to start, but the team opted to hold him out after it rained heavily before kickoff. WR Curtis Samuel also did not play.

RB James Cook played all 15 snaps on the first three possessions before calling it a night.

RB Ray Davis was the next man in and had a strong outing. The rookie carried eight times for 58 yards (7.3 YPC), forcing four missed tackles and averaging 5.0 yards after contact per attempt, according to Pro Football Focus. Here are all of his runs: 

Week 1

WR and TE routes on QB Josh Allen's five dropbacks:

• WR Keon Coleman - 5
• TE Dalton Kincaid - 4
• WR Curtis Samuel - 3
• WR Khalil Shakir - 3
• TE Dawson Knox - 3
• WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling - 2

RB James Cook was on the field for all nine of Allen's snaps and ran a route on four of five dropbacks.

    

Carolina Panthers Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

RB Jonathon Brooks (knee) and TEs Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas did not play.

QB Bryce Young saw his first preseason action of the year. He completed six of eight passes for 70 yards (8.8 YPA), one TD, and 0 INTs on his only drive.

WR routes on nine Young dropbacks:

• Diontae Johnson - 9
• Adam Thielen - 8
• Jonathan Mingo - 6
• Xavier Legette - 2

Week 2

These Panthers did not play:

• QB Bryce Young
• RB Jonathon Brooks (knee)
• RB Chuba Hubbard
• RB Miles Sanders
• WR Diontae Johnson
• WR Adam Thielen
• WR Xavier Legette (foot)

Week 1

The Panthers rested most notables, including:

• QB Bryce Young
• RB Chuba Hubbard
• RB Miles Sanders
• WR Diontae Johnson
• WR Adam Thielen

RB Jonathon Brooks (knee) and WR Xavier Legette (foot) also did not play.

WR Jonathan Mingo played the first quarter. He dropped his only target.

   

Chicago Bears Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Bears sat all notables.

Week 2

The Bears held out RBs D'Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson.

QB Caleb Williams got off to a slow start, completing just two of his first six passes. He settled in after that, connecting on four of his final seven passes for 63 yards. That included this beauty to WR Rome Odunze for 45 yards. Williams also flashed his impressive mobility on this seven-yard rushing TD.

Williams' target distribution:

• Gerald Everett - 4
• Rome Odunze - 2
• Keenan Allen - 1 (played 3 of Williams' 5 drives)
• D.J. Moore - 1 (played 3 of Williams' 5 drives)
• Cole Kmet - 1
• Khari Blasingame - 1
• Nsimba Webster - 1

Week 1

The most optimistic comp for QB Caleb Williams is Patrick Mahomes -- and there were shades of Mahomes on this throw from Williams in his preseason debut. He finished four of seven (57.1%) for 95 yards (13.6 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs. Williams also ran once for 13 yards, a reminder of his rushing ability.

Williams' target distribution:

• WR D.J. Moore - 3
• TE Cole Kmet - 2
• WR Rome Odunze - 1
• RB D'Andre Swift - 1

TEs Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett both ran a route on five of Williams' eight dropbacks (62.5%). Everett actually out-snapped Kmet 14 to 11. Neither guy will be a bankable fantasy play if this usage carries into the regular season. Kmet is an easy fade at his current TE16 ADP.

Strange usage for RB D'Andre Swift in this one. He carried on Chicago's first offensive snap, left the field, returned to make this 42-yard reception a few plays later, and then was done for the day. For now, I'm considering this preseason shenanigans. But let's keep a close eye on the Bears backfield next week.

   

Cincinnati Bengals Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Bengals again rested all notables, including WRs Andrei Iosivas and Trenton Irwin. They look set to open the season as the No. 3 and 4 WRs.

WR Jermaine Burton started and played into the fourth quarter, registering 29 snaps (25 out wide, 4 slot). The rookie caught 4 of 5 targets for 56 yards and this TD. He continues to flash exciting talent but won't open the season with a significant role.

Week 2

The Bengals sat:

• QB Joe Burrow
• RB Chase Brown
• RB Zack Moss
• WR Ja'Marr Chase
• WR Tee Higgins
• WR Andrei Iosivas
• WR Trenton Irwin
• TE Mike Gesicki

WR Jermaine Burton started but still appears to be no higher than fifth on the depth chart behind the four WRs were who held out of this one. Burton caught his only target for 19 yards and also notably handled two kick returns and two punt returns.

Week 1

The Bengals held out WR Ja'Marr Chase, while RB Zack Moss sat with an illness.

We saw QB Joe Burrow for the first time since last year's season-ending wrist injury. He was sharp on his one drive, completing five of seven passes (71.4%) for 51 yards (7.3 YPA) and this TD to WR Tee Higgins.

WR Andrei Iosivas drew the start alongside Higgins and WR Trenton Irwin. Iosivas played six snaps out wide and six in the slot -- confirmation that Cincinnati views him as a potential replacement for WR Tyler Boyd.

WR Jermaine Burton hit highlight reels with this 37-yard TD. But it came late in the fourth quarter. Burton didn't get on the field until late in the second quarter. The rookie remains an intriguing prospect but has depth-chart climbing to do.

TE Mike Gesicki played on just eight of Burrow's 13 snaps (61.5%) but ran a route on five of seven dropbacks (71.4%). He played five of his eight snaps in the slot, with the other three coming inline.

 

Cleveland Browns Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Browns held out QB Deshaun Watson, WRs Amari Cooper and Jerry Jeudy, and TE David Njoku. RB Nick Chubb (knee) remains on the PUP list. Those five didn't play at all this preseason.

RB Jerome Ford started and played the Browns' first 10 offensive snaps before calling it a night. He'll open the season as Cleveland's clear lead back.

Week 2

The Browns did not play:

• QB Deshaun Watson
• RB Nick Chubb (knee)
• RB Jerome Ford
• RB Nyheim Hines (knee)
• WR Amari Cooper
• WR Jerry Jeudy
• WR Elijah Moore
• WR Cedric Tillman
• TE David Njoku

RB Pierre Strong drew the start ahead of RB D'Onta Foreman. It remains unclear how those two will factor into behind RB Jerome Ford early on this season.

Week 1

The Browns sat:

• QB Deshaun Watson
• RB Nick Chubb (knee)
• RB D'Onta Foreman
• RB Nyheim Hines (knee)
• WR Amari Cooper
• WR Jerry Jeudy
• WR Elijah Moore
• TE David Njoku

RB Jerome Ford started over RB Pierre Strong, as expected. But we didn't get to see where RB D'Onta Foreman falls in the pecking order. He just returned from a scary injury.

    

Dallas Cowboys Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Cowboys held out the same notables as last week.

Week 2

The Cowboys did not play:

• QB Dak Prescott
• RB Ezekiel Elliott
• RB Rico Dowdle
• WR CeeDee Lamb
• WR Brandin Cooks
• TE Jake Ferguson

Dowdle sitting this one out is seemingly confirmation that he's a top-two RB on this depth chart. RBs Malik Davis, Royce Freeman, and Deuce Vaughn rotated throughout the first half. They appear to be battling for the No. 3 job.

Week 1

The Cowboys sat:

• QB Dak Prescott
• RB Ezekiel Elliott
• WR CeeDee Lamb
• WR Brandin Cooks
• WR Jalen Tolbert
• TE Jake Ferguson

RB Rico Dowdle played six snaps on the first drive before calling it a night. He carried three times for 14 times, including this nice nine-yarder.

 

 

Denver Broncos Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Broncos sat most notables.

That did not include RB Audric Estime. The rookie started and played just one series, running five times for 18 yards and a TD. His roster spot should be safe, but Estime probably won't have an early-season role. 

Week 2

QB Bo Nix got the start and was in complete command on his two drives. He connected on 8-of-9 passes (89%) for 80 yards (8.9 YPA), a TD to WR Tim Patrick, and no INTs. Nix had a second TD to RB Javonte Williams that got nullified because Nix had just crossed the line of scrimmage before the throw. He also ran three times for 12 yards. Here are all of his throws.

RB usage with Nix:

• Jaleel McLaughlin - 11 snaps, 8 routes, 3 carries, 1 target
• Javonte Williams - 9 snaps, 3 routes, 3 carries, 1 target

McLaughlin out-snapping Williams is surprising. But the bigger takeaway here is that only two RBs played with Nix. McLaughlin and Williams can both pay off their ADPs if this is a two-man backfield.

WR routes on 12 Nix dropbacks:

• Courtland Sutton - 11
• Tim Patrick - 9
• Josh Reynolds - 7
• Marvin Mims - 1
• Lil'Jordan Humphrey - 1
• David Sills - 1

Sutton, Patrick, and Reynolds look set to open the season as Denver's top three WRs. It's tough to imagine Patrick and Reynolds holding those spots all year considering the young talent in this WR room. But Mims and WR Troy Franklin will clearly not be early-season fantasy factors.

TE routes with Nix:

• Adam Trautman - 5
• Greg Dulcich - 4
• Lucas Krull - 4

Week 1

QB Jarrett Stidham got the start, completing four of seven passes for 37 yards (5.3 YPA), 0 TDs, and one INT across 12 snaps. The INT should have been caught by RB Samaje Perine.

QB Bo Nix played the next four series and impressed. The rookie went 15-of-21 (71.4%) for 125 yards (6.0 YPA), one TD, and 0 INTs. He also ran three times for 17 yards, with one of those runs coming on a read-option. The Broncos seem set to take advantage of Nix's athleticism, which boosts his QB2 appeal. Here are all of Nix's throws.

RB Javonte Williams played nine of Stidham's 12 snaps and ran a route on four of seven dropbacks. He ceded third-down work to RB Samaje Perine. It's very similar to the role Williams played last year.

RB Jaleel McLaughlin didn't play until Denver's third possession. If Williams is the lead back and Perine is handling third-down work, it'll be tough for McLaughlin to be a reliable weekly fantasy option. McLaughlin at least looked good, carrying seven times for 30 yards (4.3 YPC) and catching two of three targets for 26 yards.

WR Marvin Mims was on the field for Denver's first offensive snap but then didn't play again until the fourth series. Mims then continued to play deep into the third quarter with third-string QB Zach Wilson. It's especially worrisome after Mims' underwhelming usage last year. We'll see if things get better next week.

WR Tim Patrick ran a route on all seven of Stidham's dropbacks. He looks like Denver's No. 2 WR for now.

TEs Greg Dulcich and Adam Trautman rotated with Stidham. Dulcich ran three routes on seven dropbacks to Trautman's two. We saw similar usage for Dulcich last preseason. It'll be tough for him to be a reliable option in managed leagues unless that route rate climbs.

     

Detroit Lions Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Lions sat all notables for the third straight week.

Week 2

The Lions once again sat all notables.

RB Sione Vaki continued to play behind RB Craig Reynolds. But Vaki had a nice outing, particularly as a pass-catcher. He hauled in all four of his targets for 60 yards, highlighted by this 20-yard catch and run. HC Dan Campbell on Vaki after the game: "We already felt like this kid’s gonna have the ability to play special teams so now it’s like, can you use him on offense, is there a place?”

Week 1

The Lions sat all notables.

WR Donovan Peoples-Jones played behind WRs Antoine Green, Daurice Fountain, Tom Kennedy, and Caden Davis. DPJ is seemingly buried on Detroit's depth chart and is well off the redraft radar.

   

Green Bay Packers Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Packers rested all notables for the second straight game. QB Jordan Love and the first-team offense played just three snaps this preseason.

Week 2

The Packers sat all notables.

Week 1

QB Jordan Love's night:

• 3 snaps
• 2 passes
• 2 completions
• 63 yards
• 1 TD

Love connected with WR Dontayvion Wicks for this beautiful 65-yard TD. Don't expect Wicks to get any cheaper in fantasy drafts after this one.

RB Josh Jacobs played all three snaps on that first possession before calling it a night. RB A.J. Dillon was the second man in; RB Emanuel Wilson third; RB MarShawn Lloyd fourth. With Lloyd now dealing with a hamstring injury, Dillon is the odds-on favorite to open the season as the No. 2 RB. Lloyd is a decent bet to take that job at some point this year, though, and remains the higher-upside fantasy stash.

TE Tucker Kraft did not play as he works back from a pectoral injury.

  

Houston Texans Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Texans sat all notables.

RB Cam Akers started and had a strong showing, running seven times for 53 yards. He averaged 4.7 yards per carry across 24 preseason attempts. RB Dameon Pierce was held out of this game and still looks like the No. 2 RB. But Akers gained ground this preseason.

Week 2

The Texans' starters -- minus RB Joe Mixon (hamstring) -- played the first quarter

QB C.J. Stroud completed 7 of 10 passes for 88 yards (8.8 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs.

WR routes on 11 Stroud dropbacks:

• Nico Collins - 10
• Stefon Diggs - 9
• Tank Dell - 6

Dell will have big games as a plus talent on a strong passing game. But he'll struggle for week-to-week consistency if his route rate hovers in this territory.

Week 1

QB C.J. Stroud picked up where he left off last year, completing two of four passes for 41 yards and this TD to WR Tank Dell on his two possessions.

WRs Nico Collins and Stefon Diggs were on the field in two-WR sets, running a route on all four of Stroud's dropbacks. Dell hit the field in three-WR sets, running three routes with Stroud. If that usage holds this season, it's a slight ding against Dell. But it's baked into his ADP as the third Texans WR off the board in fantasy drafts. (And I'd also expect Dell to get some work in 2-WR sets.)

     

Indianapolis Colts Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

RB Trey Sermon (hamstring), WR Josh Downs (ankle) and TE Jelani Woods (toe) did not play.

QB Anthony Richardson had an up-then-down outing across five possessions. He led the Colts on a 12-play, 80-yard scoring drive to open the game, completing 7 of 8 passes for 65 yards and a TD to WR Adonai Mitchell. But Richardson completed just 1 of his final 6 passes, threw a pick-6, and fumbled. Here are all of his dropbacks.

Richardson's target distribution:

• WR Adonai Mitchell - 4
• TE Kylen Granson - 3
• WR Michael Pittman - 2
• WR Alec Pierce - 2
• RB Jonathan Taylor - 1
• RB Tyler Goodson - 1
• TE Andrew Ogletree - 1

Mitchell ran a route on 15 of Richardson's 16 dropbacks and notably played 19 of his 24 snaps in the slot. It looks like he'll be the primary slot receiver until Downs is ready to return from his ankle injury.

Granson led Colts TEs with 9 routes with Richardson (56% route rate). He's the best bet among Indianapolis' TEs but is unlikely to be a reliable fantasy play.

Week 2

The Colts sat:

• QB Anthony Richardson
• RB Jonathan Taylor
• RB Trey Sermon (hamstring)
• WR Michael Pittman
• WR Josh Downs (ankle)
• WR Adonai Mitchell
• WR Alec Pierce
• TE Kylen Granson
• TE Mo Alie-Cox

RB Tyler Goodson started and played more snaps than RB Evan Hull with the first-team offense. Those two could be battling for one roster spot, as long as RB Trey Sermon's hamstring injury doesn't cost him regular-season time.

TE Jelani Woods played fewer snaps with the starting offense than TEs Andrew Ogletree and Will Mallory. Woods appears to be fifth on this depth chart right now and is off the redraft radar.

Week 1

QB Anthony Richardson played seven snaps across two series. He completed two of four passes for 25 yards, nearly getting picked off on his second throw. Richardson also scrambled once for a yard. Here are his throws.

RB Jonathan Taylor played all seven snaps with Richardson and ran a route on all five dropbacks.

WR Adonai Mitchell worked as the No. 3 WR with the first-team offense. (WR Josh Downs was out with his ankle injury.) Mitchell stayed in the game with the second team and wound up playing six snaps in the slot and five out wide. That positional versatility is good news for Mitchell's 2024 outlook.

TEs Kylen Granson, Mo Alie-Cox, and Andrew Ogletree all played with Richardson. TE Jelani Woods did not.

    

Jacksonville Jaguars Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

WR Christian Kirk (calf) did not play.

QB Trevor Lawrence was sharp, completing eight of 10 passes for 92 yards and two TDs on his only two possessions. Both scores went to TE Evan Engram.

Lawrence's target distribution:

• TE Evan Engram - 4
• WR Gabe Davis - 2
• WR Parker Washington - 2
• WR Brian Thomas - 1
• RB Travis Etienne - 1

RB usage with Lawrence:

• Etienne - 17 snaps, 9 routes, 7 carries, 1 target
• Tank Bigsby - 6 snaps, 2 routes, 4 carries, 0 targets

Week 2

The Jaguars sat:

• QB Trevor Lawrence
• RB Travis Etienne
• WR Christian Kirk
• WR Gabe Davis
• TE Evan Engram

WR Brian Thomas played 22 snaps and caught his lone target for 14 yards. The rookie is still on track to open the season in something close to a full-time role.

RB Tank Bigsby got the start ahead of RB D'Ernest Johnson. Bigsby managed just 37 yards on 10 carries but had a mistake-free outing and even caught all three of his targets. He's had a nice August and is seemingly locked into the No. 2 spot on the depth chart.

Week 1

QB Trevor Lawrence played nine snaps across two possessions. He completed three of four passes for 42 yards and this TD to RB Travis Etienne on an angle route.

WRs Brian Thomas and Gabe Davis registered 100% snap rates and 100% route rates with Lawrence. WR Christian Kirk only played in three-WR sets, running a route on four of five Lawrence dropbacks. It's a slight concern for Kirk's 2024 fantasy outlook but not totally unexpected. He's been a primary slot receiver in both of his first two years with the Jaguars.

Thomas wasn't targeted by Lawrence but made this 41-yard grab from QB C.J. Beathard. The rookie appears to already be locked into a starting job and is an upside pick in the later rounds of fantasy drafts.

RB Travis Etienne played all nine snaps with Lawrence and ran a route on four of five dropbacks.

RB Tank Bigsby was the No. 2 RB and had a nice outing, carrying three times for 28 yards. He remains the favorite to be Etienne's handcuff.

 

Kansas City Chiefs Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Chiefs sat:

• QB Patrick Mahomes
• RB Isiah Pacheco
• RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire
• WR Rashee Rice
• WR Xavier Worthy
• WR Marquise Brown (shoulder)
• WR Justin Watson
• TE Travis Kelce
• TE Noah Gray

RB Carson Steele was the star of this one, ripping off this 31-yard run and scoring from one yard out on the next play. The undrafted rookie finishes the preseason with 7.9 yards per carry on 11 attempts.

It's worth noting, though, that RB Deneric Prince started this game. He and Steele are seemingly in a tight battle for the No. 3 RB job.

Week 2

WR Marquise Brown (shoulder) and RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire did not play.

QB Patrick Mahomes played 18 snaps across two possessions, producing a pair of FGs. Mahomes went 8-of-14 (57%) for 93 yards (6.6 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs. The highlight was a behind-the-back pass to TE Travis Kelce. Yeah, seriously.

Mahomes' target distribution:

• Rashee Rice - 5
• Xavier Worthy - 4
• Travis Kelce - 1
• Justin Watson - 1
• Carson Steele - 1

Worthy was electric, catching a 39-yarder from Mahomes and a 22-yard TD from QB Carson Wentz. The rookie finished with a 3-62-1 receiving line on 15 routes.

RB Isiah Pacheco played the first drive -- but then it was RB Carson Steele next in, ahead of RB Deneric Prince. We'll keep an eye on that situation, although my money is still on Edwards-Helaire opening the season as Kansas City's No. 2 RB.

Week 1

QB Patrick Mahomes got his feet wet with six snaps, completing three of four passes for 27 yards. The completions went to WR Marquise Brown, RB Isiah Pacheco, and TE Travis Kelce; the incompletion to WR Rashee Rice.

The Chiefs aren't slow-playing WR Xavier Worthy. He got the start and ran a route on three of Mahomes' four dropbacks. It's worth noting that WR Marquise Brown left after the first snap with a shoulder injury, but I'm not sure that impacted Worthy's playing time.

RB Isiah Pacheco played all six of Mahomes' snaps and ran a route on all four of his dropbacks.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire was the second back in for Kansas City, playing the second series before calling it a night. RB Deneric Prince was the third man in. Prince has reportedly been running ahead of Edwards-Helaire in camp, but we still have CEH projected as the No. 2 RB.

 

Las Vegas Raiders Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Raiders sat all notables.

Week 2

WR Davante Adams and TE Brock Bowers did not play.

Neither QB played well. Gardner Minshew got the start and went 10-of-21 (48%) for 95 yards (4.5 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs across five possessions. Over half of that yardage came on a 48-yard deep ball to WR Tre Tucker. Minshew averaged 2.4 yards per attempt on his other 20 passes and earned an ugly 44.0 Pro Football Focus passing grade. Aidan O'Connell was only a little better, getting a 51.2 passing grade from PFF. He finished 14-of-20 (70%) for 96 yards (4.8 YPA). He tossed a five-yard TD to TE Harrison Bryant but also threw a pick-six. “I wish it had ended well for both gentlemen, and it just didn’t," HC Antonio Pierce said afterward. Pierce reluctantly named Minshew his Week 1 starter on Sunday.

RB Zamir White oddly played into the third quarter -- much longer than RB Alexander Mattison. White played most early-down snaps while he was in but ceded passing-down work to Mattison and then RB Dylan Laube. 

Week 1

The Raiders played all notables besides WR Davante Adams.

QBs Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew both played reasonably well. O'Connell got the start and went 7-of-9 (77.8%) for 76 yards (8.4 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs on one possession. Minshew played the next four series, going 6-of-12 (50%) for 117 yards (9.8 YPA), one TD, and 0 INTs. Minshew earned an 84.3 Pro Football Focus passing grade to O'Connell's 70.6.

Here's was HC Antonio Pierce on the QBs after the game: “I thought both guys were efficient. I thought there were some opportunities that Minshew made down the field that were really good… I thought they really did a good job with the operations. We did have one delay of game with Gardner that we need to clean up, but I thought Aidan did a really good job from being backed up down in the red zone, and Gardner two-minute drill. Everything we wanted to get out of it out of preseason 1, we got.”

RB Zamir White played 11 of 14 snaps on Vegas' first possession. He ran a route on six of 10 dropbacks but left the field in favor of RB Alexander Mattison on third downs. Expect a similar role for White during the regular season.

Mattison operated as Vegas' lead back after White exited -- confirmation that he's No. 2 on the depth chart.

It was a mixed debut for TE Brock Bowers. The bad news: He ran a route on just five of 10 dropbacks on the opening drive, one fewer than TE Michael Mayer. The good news: Bowers caught both of his targets for 25 yards and lined up all over the formation:

• Inline - 4 snaps
• Out wide - 3
• Backfield - 3
• Slot - 1

His catches came when lined up out wide and at fullback.

    

Los Angeles Chargers Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Chargers sat all notables. That included RB Kimani Vidal, who now looks likely to open the season as L.A.'s No. 3 RB.

WRs D.J. Chark and Quentin Johnston were held out, while WR Brenden Rice played -- a week after those three rotated with the first team. Rice appears to be no higher than fifth on the depth chart, and there's been speculation that he's not a lock for the final 53-man roster. The rookie caught just one of seven targets in this one.

Week 2

The Chargers sat:

• QB Justin Herbert (foot)
• RB Gus Edwards
• RB J.K. Dobbins
• TE Hayden Hurst

RB Jaret Patterson started this game, but RB Kimani Vidal hit the field for the third play and had a nice debut. The rookie took 11 carries for 49 yards (4.5 YPC) and caught two of three targets for eight yards. Here are all of Vidal's touches.

WR Josh Palmer started, played the first possession, and then called it a night. He's set to open the season as the Chargers' No. 1 WR.

WR Ladd McConkey also started but didn't play in any two-WR sets early in the game, as noted by PFF's Nathan Jahnke. For the game, McConkey played 11 snaps in the slot vs. six out wide. He'll struggle for reliable fantasy value if he's not playing in two-WR sets.

WRs D.J. Chark, Quentin Johnston, and Brenden Rice rotated snaps on the outside throughout the first half. That seems like a bullish sign for Rice, although The Athletic's Daniel Popper still believes the rookie is battling Simi Fehoko for the No. 6 WR spot.

Week 1

The Chargers sat:

• QB Justin Herbert (foot)
• RB J.K. Dobbins
• RB Gus Edwards
• RB Kimani Vidal
• WR Josh Palmer
• WR Ladd McConkey

Rookies Kimani Vidal and Ladd McConkey were both in uniform for warmups but did not play. It's unclear if they were held out due to injury or coach's decision.

WRs D.J. Chark, Brenden Rice, and Simi Fehoko started for the Chargers. WR Quentin Johnston didn't hit the field until the third drive. The 2023 first-rounder is looking unlikely to open the season in a fantasy-relevant role.

QB Easton Stick started and produced 31 passing yards, 0 TDs, and one INT on eight possessions. Big woof.

  

Los Angeles Rams Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

All notables sat for the Rams. That included WRs Tutu Atwell and Jordan Whittington.

Week 2

The Rams once again sat all notables.

It's worth noting that WR Tutu Atwell sat while WR Jordan Whittington played, suggesting that the rookie might still be behind Atwell on the depth chart.

Week 1

The Rams, as usual, rested their key offensive personnel. That included RB Blake Corum, who seems locked into the No. 2 spot on the depth chart, and TE Colby Parkinson, who appears to be the No. 1 TE at least until TE Tyler Higbee returns from his knee injury.

Rookie WR Jordan Whittington had a nice outing, catching six of nine targets for 74 yards. HC Sean McVay talked him up as a potential 2024 contributor afterward.

    

Miami Dolphins Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Dolphins sat:

• QB Tua Tagovailoa
• RB De'Von Achane
• RB Raheem Mostert
• WR Tyreek Hill
• WR Jaylen Waddle
• WR Odell Beckham (PUP)
• TE Jonnu Smith

RB Jaylen Wright played behind RB Jeff Wilson but had another impressive outing. The rookie picked up 36 yards on seven carries (5.1 YPC) and caught four of six targets for 41 yards. Here are all of his carries and targets.

WR Malik Washington flashed with a 40-yard run, plus a 45-yard kick return and 28-yard punt return.

Week 2

Miami rested:

• RB Jaylen Wright
• RB Jeff Wilson
• RB Salvon Ahmed
• WR Tyreek Hill
• WR Jaylen Waddle
• WR Odell Beckham (PUP)

QB Tua Tagovailoa played one drive, completing all five of his throws for 51 yards and this perfectly lofted TD to WR River Cracraft.

The Dolphins have talked about diversifying RB De'Von Achane's role this season. In this game, he played nine snaps in the backfield, two in the slot, and two out wide. He made this 26-yard grab from out wide.

Week 1

The Dolphins sat all their key offensive pieces.

RB Jeff Wilson got the start, but RB Jaylen Wright had the better outing. The rookie carried 10 times for 55 yards and a score, flashing impressive burst and speed on a few occasions. Here are all of his touches:

 

Minnesota Vikings Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Vikings again held out all notables.

Week 2

The Vikings sat all notables.

Week 1

The Vikings held out RB Aaron Jones, WR Justin Jefferson, and TE T.J. Hockenson (knee).

QB Sam Darnold got the start and completed four of eight passes for 59 yards (7.4 YPA), 0 TDs, and 0 INTs.

QB J.J. McCarthy played the next six drives. After an INT on the first, he settled in to finish 11-of-17 (64.7%) for 188 yards, two TDs, and the one INT. Here are all of his dropbacks. McCarthy earned a strong 84.0 Pro Football Focus passing grade.

RB Ty Chandler played all 12 snaps with Darnold. He's locked in as the No. 2 RB.

    

New England Patriots Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

RB Rhamondre Stevenson and TE Hunter Henry did not play.

QB Jacoby Brissett got the start, completed two of four passes for 19 yards, and then hurt his right shoulder

QB Drake Maye replaced Brissett and was impressive. The rookie went 13 of 20 (65%) for 126 yards, one TD, and 0 INTs. He also had a 48-yard TD called back by an illegal formation penalty. Maye added 17 yards on three carries. 

WRs Demario Douglas, K.J. Osborn, and Tyquan Thornton started for New England. WRs Ja'Lynn Polk, Javon Baker, and Jalen Reagor also worked in with the first-team offense. Here's what the routes looked like on 26 dropbacks between Brissett and Maye, per Pro Football Focus:

• Osborn - 20
• Thornton - 17
• Polk - 17
• Douglas - 13
• Baker - 6
• Reagor - 3

Douglas has almost exclusively played in three-WR sets only this preseason. That's a concern for his weekly fantasy viability.

Week 2

Drake Maye was clearly New England's best QB in this one. QB Jacoby Brissett got the start but threw for just 17 yards with a bad red-zone INT across three possessions. Maye finished 6-of-11 for 47 yards but played much better than those numbers suggest. WR Javon Baker dropped two perfectly thrown deep balls from Maye that would have combined for close to 100 yards. The rookie also scrambled twice for 11 yards and scored this four-yard TD on a read-option.

RB usage on Brissett's three drives:

• Rhamondre Stevenson - 10 snaps, 4 routes, 6 carries, 0 targets
• Antonio Gibson - 5 snaps, 3 routes, 2 carries, 0 targets

WR routes on seven Brissett dropbacks:

• Demario Douglas - 6
• K.J. Osborn - 6 
• Tyquan Thornton - 5
• Jalen Reagor - 2
• Ja'Lynn Polk - 1

It was a rough night for WR Javon Baker. Besides getting zero snaps with the first-team offense, he was charged with three drops on four targets. There's still opportunity for him to earn a role this year, but don't expect him to be a factor early in the season.

Week 1

QB Jacoby Brissett got the start and went 0-for-3 on his lone drive. QB Drake Maye was the next man in but also played just one series. The rookie completed short passes to RBs Antonio Gibson and Kevin Harris. His incompletion was a dart over the middle to WR Jalen Reagor that should have been caught.

QB Joe Milton had an exciting debut, completing four of six passes for 54 yards and a TD and running five times for 22 yards. The rookie has reportedly had a strong training camp. He was the fourth QB into this game, though, and is competing with Bailey Zappe for the No. 3 job. Milton is an interesting stash in dynasty superflex leagues but remains off the redraft radar.

RB Rhamondre Stevenson played all four snaps on the opening drive before calling it a night. RB Antonio Gibson played five of six snaps on the second drive and carried once on the third. This could be a bullish signal for Stevenson's usage, but we'll wait to get a look at another preseason game before altering our projections for the Patriots backfield.

  

New Orleans Saints Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Saints did not play:

• QB Derek Carr
• RB Alvin Kamara 
• RB Jamaal Williams
• RB Kendre Miller (hamstring)
• WR Chris Olave
• WR Rashid Shaheed (toe, foot)
• WR Cedrick Wilson
• TE Taysom Hill

WR A.T. Perry caught two of four targets for 67 yards but played behind WRs Bub Means and Equanimeous St. Brown. Perry appears to be sixth on the depth chart heading into the season.

Week 2

These Saints did not play:

• RB Alvin Kamara
• RB Kendre Miller (hamstring)
• WR Rashid Shaheed (foot/toe)
• TE Juwan Johnson (foot)

QB Derek Carr played three series, completing 7 of 9 passes (78%) for 47 scoreless yards (5.2 YPA). Carr targeted WR Chris Olave on four of his nine throws.

Taysom Hill was all over the field in this one. He played 14 of 22 snaps (64%) with Carr, carrying five times for 21 yards and a TD. Here was his alignment:

• Backfield - 8 snaps
• Inline - 5 snaps
• Slot - 1 snap

It's worth noting that RBs Alvin Kamara and Kendre Miller didn't play. But Hill looks primed to play a big role for these Saints.

Week 1

RB Kendre Miller (hamstring), WR Rashid Shaheed (hamstring), and TE Juwan Johnson (foot) did not play.

QB Derek Carr went 2-of-6 for 12 yards on two drives. He was pressured on two of his six dropbacks, according to Pro Football Focus. New Orleans' offensive line is a major concern.

RB usage on Carr's nine snaps and six dropbacks:

• Alvin Kamara - 6 snaps, 4 four routes, 2 carries, 0 targets
• Jamaal Williams - 3 snaps, 2 routes, 1 carry, 1 target

WR Cedrick Wilson drew the start over WR A.T. Perry. Wilson caught his only target for one year, while Perry snagged all four of his looks for 85 yards. This is a battle to track over the next few weeks.

TE Taysom Hill played the first six snaps of the game -- two out wide, two inline, one in the slot, and one in the backfield.

    

New York Giants Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Giants sat all notables.

Week 2

In his first live action since last year's torn ACL, QB Daniel Jones should have been intercepted on his first throw and threw a pick-six on his fourth. He was picked off again on his sixth attempt. Jones settled in to lead the Giants to 10 points over his final two possessions, completing nine of his final 12 passes for 120 yards. He also scrambled once for 12 yards, looking close to 100% recovered from that knee injury.

WR routes on 19 Jones dropbacks:

• Malik Nabers - 17
• Wan'Dale Robinson - 15
• Jalin Hyatt - 13
• Darius Slayton - 8

Nabers led the Giants with six targets (33% share) and four catches from Jones. He totaled 54 yards in one half of action, highlighted by this contorting grab.

Theo Johnson led Giants TEs with 11 routes on 19 Jones dropbacks. That 58% route rate wouldn't be enough to make Johnson a bankable fantasy play. But it's a bullish sign that the rookie is seemingly already topping this depth chart.

RB Devin Singletary saw workhorse usage with the first-team offense:

• 88% snap rate
• 79% route rate
• 10 carries
• 1 target

It's worth noting, though, that RB Tyrone Tracy (ankle) did not play.

Week 1

The Giants rested:

• QB Daniel Jones
• RB Devin Singletary
• WR Wan'Dale Robinson
• WR Darius Slayton

WR Malik Nabers played 12 snaps. He didn't draw a target but created plenty of separation.

RBs Tyrone Tracy and Eric Gray both had strong showings in this one. Tracy got the start -- notable for a rookie -- and finished with five carries for 26 yards. Gray was the star of the night, ripping off this ankle-breaking 48-yard TD. He also caught all four of his targets for 46 yards. Tracy seems to be in the lead for the No. 2 RB job, but Gray might have closed the gap.

TEs Theo Johnson, Daniel Bellinger, and Chris Manhertz rotated throughout the first half. Johnson led the group with five routes to Bellinger's three and Manhert's zero, per Pro Football Focus. Consider that a win for Johnson, a rookie who missed time early in camp. He's the Giants TE worth a flier at the very end of deep fantasy drafts.

   

New York Jets Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Jets held out most notables, including RBs Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis. The rookies have seemingly locked up the No. 2 and 3 spots on the depth chart.

RB Israel Abanikanda ripped off 83 yards and a score on nine carries. The highlight was this 45-yard TD. Abanikanda averaged 6.1 yards per carry this preseason. He looks unlikely to make the Jets' final roster, but I'm curious to see where Abanikanda lands -- and would keep him stashed on dynasty rosters.

Week 2

The Jets held out the same seven notables as last week.

Rookie RBs Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis rotated with the starting offense. Allen wasn't as productive as he was in the first preseason game, totaling 27 yards on eight carries (3.4 YPC). But HC Robert Saleh talked up his pass-catching skills after this game. Allen still looks like a high-value handcuff to RB Breece Hall.

Through two preseason games, WR Malachi Corley has played 31 of 33 snaps in the slot and has an average target depth of 3.7 yards. If he has a role on offense early this year, it'll be as a schemed-up, short-range target.

Week 1

The Jets held out:

• QB Aaron Rodgers
• RB Breece Hall
• WR Garrett Wilson
• WR Mike Williams
• WR Allen Lazard
• TE Tyler Conklin
• TE Jeremy Ruckert

RB Braelon Allen got the start -- confirmation that he's No. 2 on the depth chart behind Hall. Allen ripped off 54 yards on six carries (9.0 YPC), including this punishing run for 16 yards.

 

 

Philadelphia Eagles Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Eagles sat all notables for the third straight game. QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley, WR A.J. Brown, WR DeVonta Smith, and TE Dallas Goedert didn't play this preseason, despite Philadelphia breaking in a new offense under OC Kellen Moore.

Week 2

The Eagles' stars once again got the night off:

• QB Jalen Hurts
• RB Saquon Barkley
• WR A.J. Brown
• WR DeVonta Smith
• TE Dallas Goedert

RB Kenneth Gainwell remains ahead of RB Will Shipley. Gainwell played all 10 snaps on Philly's first two drives -- and then Shipley took over. Neither guy got anything going on the ground, but Shipley caught all four of his targets for 31 yards, including this 19-yarder on a screen. We'd probably see both guys plenty involved if Barkley misses time this season.

Week 1

The Eagles sat:

• QB Jalen Hurts
• RB Saquon Barkley
• WR A.J. Brown
• WR DeVonta Smith
• TE Dallas Goedert

RB Kenneth Gainwell played all 11 snaps with starting QB Kenny Pickett and then called it a night. RB Will Shipley was the next back in, finishing with seven carries for 23 yards and this seven-yard receiving score. Gainwell remains the No. 2 RB in Philadelphia, although this battle probably isn't decided yet.

     

Pittsburgh Steelers Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

RB Jaylen Warren (hamstring) and WR Roman Wilson (ankle) did not play.

QB Russell Wilson got the start but played just five snaps on his lone possession. He completed both of his passes to WR George Pickens, including this 32-yarder.

QB Justin Fields played the next three drives. He went 3-of-4 for 40 yards, took two sacks, and fumbled once, recovering it himself. Fields was sacked on 13.2% of his dropbacks this preseason.

Week 2

Pittsburgh's QB struggled badly in this one, combining for 139 passing yards on 5.1 yards per attempt. QB Russell Wilson got the start and played the first five series. He went 8-of-10 for 47 scoreless yards, took three sacks, and produced 0 points. QB Justin Fields played the rest of the game ... and totaled just 92 yards on 11-of-17 passing. He added 42 yards on eight carries.

TE Pat Freiermuth ran a route on eight of Wilson's 13 dropbacks (62%). He's at a 68% route rate through two preseason games. That's lower than we'd like to see -- but not surprising in this Arthur Smith offense.

WR Van Jefferson ran a route on all 13 Wilson dropbacks and continues to look like the No. 2 WR to start the season.

Week 1

QB Justin Fields got the start with QB Russell Wilson out and had a typical Fields outing: Some good, some bad. He completed five of six passes (83.3%) for 67 yards (11.2 YPA). But he also fumbled twice (0 lost) and took two sacks on nine dropbacks. Here's video of all of his snaps. I doubt Fields hurt or helped his odds of winning the starting job in this one.

Fields' target distribution:

• George Pickens - 2
• Van Jefferson - 2
• Pat Freiermuth - 1
• Najee Harris - 1

Jefferson ran a route on eight of Fields' nine dropbacks and is the favorite to open the season as Pittsburgh's No. 2 WR. He's still not an exciting fantasy pick.

Freiermuth rotated snaps with TEs Darnell Washington and MyCole Pruitt. But, more importantly, Freiermuth ran a route on seven of Fields' nine dropbacks (77.8%). He remains an intriguing fantasy football sleeper.

RB usage with Fields:

• Najee Harris - 9 snaps, 3 routes, 3 carries, 1 target
• Jaylen Warren - 8 snaps, 3 routes, 3 carries, 0 targets

   

San Francisco 49ers Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The 49ers sat:

• RB Christian McCaffrey (calf)
• RB Elijah Mitchell
• WR Brandon Aiyuk
• WR Ricky Pearsall (shoulder)
• WR Jauan Jennings

QB Brock Purdy played three drives. He completed nine of 12 passes for 96 yards (8.0 YPA), 0 TDs, and this INT on a pass intended for WR Deebo Samuel.

Purdy's target distribution:

• TE George Kittle - 4
• WR Deebo Samuel - 3
• RB Jordan Mason - 2
• TE Jake Tonges - 2
• WR Chris Conley - 1

RB Jordan Mason started and played 21 of Purdy's 24 snaps. He ripped off 42 yards and a score on eight carries (5.3 YPC) and caught one of two targets for seven yards.

Week 2

These 49ers did not play:

• RB Christian McCaffrey (calf)
• RB Elijah Mitchell (hamstring)
• RB Jordan Mason
• RB Isaac Guerendo (hamstring)
• WR Brandon Aiyuk
• WR Deebo Samuel
• WR Ricky Pearsall (shoulder)
• WR Jauan Jennings
• TE George Kittle

QB Brock Purdy played three series with the backups, finishing 2-of-6 for 11 yards. No reason to worry.

Week 1

A banged-up 49ers squad sat:

• QB Brock Purdy
• RB Christian McCaffrey (calf)
• RB Elijah Mitchell (hamstring)
• RB Isaac Guerendo (hamstring)
• WR Brandon Aiyuk
• WR Deebo Samuel
• WR Ricky Pearsall (shoulder)
• WR Jauan Jennings
• WR Jacob Cowing
• TE George Kittle

RB Jordan Mason was impressive, turning six carries into 34 yards and one TD. He earned a strong 85.2 Pro Football Focus rushing grade. Here are all of his runs:

      

Seattle Seahawks Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Seahawks held out:

• RB Ken Walker
• RB Zach Charbonnet (back)
• WR Tyler Lockett
• TE Noah Fant (foot)

QB Geno Smith played one series, leading Seattle on a five-play, 62-yard TD drive. Smith went 4-of-5 for 62 yards and this 21-yard TD to WR D.K. Metcalf.

WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba caught both of his targets from Smith for 32 yards.

Week 2

The Seahawks sat all notables.

QB Sam Howell had a strong showing playing mostly with the second-string offense, completing 11 of 14 passes for 153 yards, 1 TD, and 0 INTs. (This remains QB Geno Smith's job.)

Week 1

The Seahawks did not play:

• QB Geno Smith
• RB Ken Walker
• WR D.K. Metcalf
• WR Tyler Lockett
• TE Noah Fant

WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba played 22 snaps -- 16 in the slot, six out wide. It's tough to say for sure with Metcalf and Lockett out, but it seems like JSN is again ticketed for primary slot duties under new OC Ryan Grubb.

   

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

WRs Mike Evans and Trey Palmer did not play.

QB Baker Mayfield went 3-of-3 for 54 yards on his only drive of the preseason. He connected with WR Chris Godwin, RB Rachaad White, and WR Jalen McMillan.

Godwin played six of his seven snaps in the slot. McMillan was outside for all seven of his snaps.

White played all seven of Mayfield's snaps. He carried four times for 16 yards and a TD and caught his only target for 17 yards.

Week 2

The Bucs sat:

• QB Baker Mayfield
• RB Rachaad White
• RB Chase Edmonds
• WR Mike Evans
• WR Chris Godwin
• TE Cade Otton

RB Bucky Irving got the start and had another solid showing, carrying six times for 26 yards (4.3 YPC). RB Chase Edmonds continues to be sidelined with an undisclosed injury, so we can't know whether the rookie has passed him yet. But Irving would be the Bucs RB to own if RB Rachaad White misses time this year.

Week 1

The Bucs rested:

• QB Baker Mayfield
• RB Rachaad White
• RB Chase Edmonds
• WR Mike Evans
• WR Chris Godwin
• TE Cade Otton

RB Bucky Irving got the start and had a productive outing: six carries for 28 yards (4.7 YPA) and a TD. Here are all of his carries. The rookie remains a strong bet to open the season as Tampa Bay's No. 2 RB.

  

Tennessee Titans Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

WR DeAndre Hopkins (knee) and TE Josh Whyle (concussion) did not play.

QB Will Levis was sharp on two possessions, leading the Titans to 10 points. He went 7-of-8 for 118 yards, 0 TDs, and 0 INTs.

Levis' target distribution:

• WR Calvin Ridley - 3
• RB Tony Pollard - 2
• TE Nick Vannett - 2
• WR Tyler Boyd - 1

Pollard started and played all nine snaps on the opening drive. RB Tyjae Spears hit the field for Tennessee's second possession and played seven of eight snaps on that drive. We could see Pollard and Spears rotate drives at least to start the season.

Week 2

The Titans sat all notables.

Week 1

QB Will Levis played 14 snaps across two drives. He didn't do anything noteworthy as a passer, completing four of five passes for 35 yards (7.0 YPA). But he led Tennessee to two TDs, including his own one-yard score on a QB sneak. Here are all of Levis' dropbacks.

RB usage with Levis:

• Tony Pollard - 8 snaps, 2 routes, 4 carries, 2 targets
• Tyjae Spears - 6 snaps, 3 routes, 3 carries, 1 target

   

Washington Commanders Preseason Takeaways

Week 3

The Commanders rested all notables.

Week 2

QB Jayden Daniels wasn't as electric as he was in Week 1, but he had an efficient outing. The rookie completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards, 0 TDs, and 0 INTs. He's up to an 80% completion rate this preseason, looking decisive and accurate. Daniels also ran twice for 13 yards in this one.

WR routes on 12 Daniels dropbacks:

• Terry McLaurin - 12
• Jahan Dotson - 11
• Dyami Brown - 7
• Olamide Zaccheaus - 4

WR Luke McCaffrey still hasn't played a snap with the first-team offense this preseason.

TE Ben Sinnott got some first-team work in this one, running a route on two of Daniels' 12 dropbacks. He still played behind TE John Bates, while TE Zach Ertz didn't dress. But it was a step in the right direction for the rookie, who caught his only target for 10 yards.

RB usage with Daniels:

• Brian Robinson - 10 snaps, 4 routes, 3 carries, 0 targets
• Austin Ekeler - 8 snaps, 6 routes, 0 carries, 1 target

Week 1

QB Jayden Daniels played 11 snaps in his debut. They included this 42-yard deep ball to WR Dyami Brown and this three-yard rushing TD on a read-option. You're gonna want this guy on your fantasy team.

RB usage on Daniels' 11 snaps:

• Brian Robinson - 6 snaps, 1 route, 5 carries, 0 targets
• Austin Ekeler - 5 snaps, 2 routes, 2 carries, 1 target

Neither of Washington's rookie pass-catchers -- TE Ben Sinnott or WR Luke McCaffrey -- played a snap with Daniels. Teams often make rookies earn their way up the depth chart, so don't rule out Sinnott and McCaffrey having early-season roles. But we'll keep an eye on their usage in the final two preseason games. Sinnott did have this impressive 44-yard catch-and-run with the backups.

      

Preseason Takeaways Matter: Updated Rankings

If you're not altering your rankings based on preseason action, you're doing it wrong.

Our fantasy football rankings are updated every single day from now until the start of the regular season.

Those always-fresh rankings fuel the customized cheat sheet on your Draft War Room.

It's the most powerful drafting tool in the game.

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Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Preseason

When does NFL preseason start?

The 2024 NFL preseason started on August 1 with the Hall of Fame game between the Texans and Bears. The first full week of preseason starts on August 8.

How many preseason games are in the NFL in 2024?

The majority of teams will play three preseason games in 2024. The Texans and Bears, who played in the Hall of Fame Game, will have four preseason games.

Are any NFL preseason games televised?

Many preseason games are televised on local channels. NFL Network also shows preseason games, both live and taped.