The midpoint of the 2024 NFL preseason has arrived, and Week 2 is traditionally viewed as a crucial dress rehearsal for teams. This week has been especially notable for the series of joint practices that have taken place, giving teams opportunities to test their mettle against different opponents. Among the teams drawing significant attention are the New England Patriots, the Atlanta Falcons, the Chicago Bears, and the Kansas City Chiefs, each grappling with key player developments and position battles.
Patriots’ Quarterback Conundrum
The New England Patriots are in the midst of deciding who will lead their offense. Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye are locked in a fierce quarterback battle. An insider noted, "The Patriots will have a decision to make who will quarterback this rebuilding offense that has little skill position players and a subpar offensive line." This assessment underscores the challenges the Patriots face, especially given their lack of depth at the skill positions and a questionable offensive line.
Falcons’ Offensive Dynamics
Over in Atlanta, the situation seems clearer with Kirk Cousins set as the starting quarterback. However, Michael Penix Jr. is making a strong case for more playing time after his impressive preseason debut. Penix went 9 of 16 for 104 yards, posting a passer rating of 76.0, and led the Falcons to 10 points over five possessions. This performance indicates that he could be a valuable asset for Atlanta, adding depth and potential at the quarterback position.
Bears Pin Hopes on Caleb Williams
The Chicago Bears are placing their trust in rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. In his preseason opener, Williams demonstrated potential by completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards, earning a passer rating of 101.8. Despite being on the field for just two possessions, Williams guided the Bears to a scoring drive, adding six points to the scoreboard. An analyst pointed out, "Let’s see how long Williams plays against the Bengals, but it will be vital for the Bears to get their rookie quarterback those live game reps."
Giants’ Wide Receiver Woes
The New York Giants are dealing with injury concerns among their wide receiver corps. Malik Nabers suffered an ankle injury in the preseason opener, while Jalin Hyatt and Wan'Dale Robinson are fiercely competing for the WR2 position behind Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins. The Giants will need to manage these injuries and competition carefully as they approach the regular season.
Chiefs’ Wide Receiver Depth Chart
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing both injury and disciplinary issues among their receivers. Hollywood Brown is grappling with a shoulder injury, and rookie Xavier Worthy might need to step up in his absence. Adding to the complexity, Rashee Rice potentially faces suspension. The Chiefs' wide receiver roster also includes Kadarius Toney, Nikko Remigio, Skyy Moore, and Justyn Ross, each vying for a role in the high-octane offense led by Patrick Mahomes.
Titans’ Rushing Renaissance
The Tennessee Titans are looking to rejuvenate their rushing attack with new running backs Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears. In the preseason opener, Spears scored a touchdown, marking a promising start. Pollard also shined with a standout 24-yard run. Combined, the Titans managed 37 yards from seven carries between Pollard and Spears, signaling a potential new dynamic in their ground game.
Dolphins’ Backup Quarterback Duel
The Miami Dolphins are witnessing a tight competition for the backup quarterback spot between Skylar Thompson and Mike White. Thompson finished the preseason opener with 8 of 19 for 95 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Conversely, White struggled, completing only 4 of 14 for 26 yards against second- and third-team players. This battle may persist until the final week of the preseason as the Dolphins determine their quarterback depth chart.
Additional Preseason Highlights
Elsewhere in the league, the Vikings have been relieved to see rookie Jordan Addison avoid a serious injury. With Justin Jefferson expected to see limited snaps this preseason, Trishton Jackson’s impressive performance—100 yards on four catches with a touchdown—provides a bright spot for Minnesota. For the San Francisco 49ers, Ricky Pearsall’s recovery from hamstring and shoulder injuries remains a key storyline as training camp progresses.
Lastly, the Denver Broncos quarterbacks Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham also took the field, with Nix completing 15 of 21 for 125 yards and a touchdown, while Stidham had a less effective outing, finishing 4 of 7 for 37 yards with an interception.
As preseason action continues, teams will look to refine their rosters and make critical decisions that will shape their regular season campaigns. With the preseason midpoint now passed, each snap, throw, and catch becomes ever more crucial in the journey toward finalizing player lineups and strategies for the season ahead.