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Training

Camp Update Volume 12, Issue 2 – 8/16/17 We say it all the time because it's true: Things change fast in the NFL. And they never change faster than they do in August. And nobody covers those changes and team situations more comprehensively than Footballguys.com. Our Training Camp Updates come out once a week in August and our staff covers everything you need to know about every NFL team. This is the deep stuff that gives you an edge. We're not going to rave that Cam Newton, Antonio Brown or even David Johnson is great. You already know that.

Read our weekly updates to get the inside scoop on how the Bears running backs are practicing and which player is the best bet for your draft. Or the Saints WR corps. Or which Browns receiver is shining in practice. It's the kind of information that will put you over the edge and on the way to dominating your draft.

Happy reading and let's have a great 2017 season,

Joe Bryant and David Dodds Owners, Footballguys.com

Arizona Cardinals

QB: After sitting out the Hall of Fame game, Carson Palmer finally saw game action against the Raiders in the second preseason game. The Cardinals are limiting the amount of preseason action for the aging quarterback. Palmer completed 4-of-8 passes for 39 yards and a touchdown. The 37-year old passer hinted

at retirement during the offseason, but it was never serious. Palmer told NFL Network’s Kurt Warner that it was just a matter of taking a little bit of time to confirm his body was capable of playing. A week ago it looked like Blaine Gabbert was going to make a serious push to unseat Drew Stanton as the team's backup quarterback. Stanton fought back with a solid showing against the Raiders completing 11-of-15 passes for 112 yards and a touchdown. Gabbert was just 5-for-9 passing for 53 yards. Bruce Arians praised Stanton, “It’s what I see in practice every day. He was dynamite in OTAs and has been throughout the training camp."

RB: David Johnson committed to becoming a better pass protector this preseason. Johnson told ESPN, “That’s probably my weakest attribute as a running back.” Last season, Carson Palmer noticed that Johnson had one “go-to” move in pass-protection, and opposing pass rushers could figure it out and know what was coming. This year Johnson has been using a more diverse arsenal of blocks. “I think he’s more multiple now,” Palmer said. “I think he’s tried a bunch of different ways to pick up a blitz from wherever it may be coming from. I think he’s got more weapons in his quiver.” It is hard to find fault in Johnson’s game, but last season Coach Arians thought that he missed too many blitz pickups. Johnson has been spending hours watching film of various pass-rushers and blitzes, trying to identify the types of moves they use on running backs. “I know who I have,” Johnson said. “It comes down to blocking them. Guys have their favorite moves, obviously. I think it comes down to a lot of film study and then drills, technique, going against the ones, going against those guys that are good edge rushers and good blitzers.”

WR: Larry Fitzgerald continues to get the veteran treatment and will see minimal preseason action. John Brown finally returned to practice on Tuesday, August 15 after missing most of camp with a sore quadriceps. Backup Brittan Golden caught a 12-yard touchdown and finished with three catches for 44 yards against the Raiders, solidifying his roster spot.

TE: Jermaine Gresham has already proven himself as a starting tight end and reserves Ifeanyi Momah and Hakeem Valles have stepped in when needed. “But they aren’t 6-7, 270 and (Troy) has special talent,” Arians insisted. “He’s just had some freaky injuries.” Troy Niklas only played three games last year before suffering a season-ending wrist injury. “I like to try and take ownership of it,” Niklas said. “That’s the only way I can overcome it for myself. All the injuries, all that time not spent on the field, regardless of how you look at it, it’s on me. I’m not doing my job.” Although Niklas only has eight career catches in three seasons, he’s very comfortable in the offense, understanding all facets. Arians is in his corner, “Love him. Great guy, he’s a dawn to dusk worker. You’re pulling for those guys.” Niklas helped his

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case against the Raiders with a 7-yard touchdown reception.

Defense: Cornerback Patrick Peterson is having the best camp of his six-year career. “This is the best I’ve seen him,” Palmer said. “I told him that the other day. He’s just had great practice after great practice,” Palmer said. “He’s contested every single ball. Not that he’s broken up every pass, but he’s right on top of it.” “He’s in fantastic condition,” Arians said. Trying to keep up with the speedy J.J. Nelson has helped that process. But Peterson also covers Larry Fitzgerald, giving him experience against a bigger, more physical receiver.

Returners: The Cardinals confirmed that Kerwynn Williams is the most likely replacement for T.J. Logan; Logan is on his way to injured reserve with the possibility to return at midseason. Despite never fielding a punt at the professional level, Williams was listed atop the newly-released depth chart at both kickoff and punt returner.

OL: The first team offensive line provided a clean pocket for starting quarterback Carson Palmer in their preseason win over the Oakland Raiders. It was not a difficult test as the Raiders rested their starters. John Wetzel played left tackle in place of D.J. Humphries and did a good job. Wetzel is a second-year player from Boston College who started eight games last season. Humphries (hamstring) should be healthy soon, but Wetzel has momentum and could steal this job. Backup tackle Will Holden, a second year player out of Vanderbilt, struggled during the game. Holden was beaten cleanly on several occasions and was called for two penalties. Overall, the line grades out as an above average unit in the latest rankings.

Cardinals Depth Chart QB: Carson Palmer, Drew Stanton, Blaine Gabbert, Trevor Knight RB: David Johnson, Chris Johnson, Kerwynn Williams, Andre Ellington, Elijhaa Penny, James Summers, T.J. Logan (IR) WR: Larry Fitzgerald, John Brown (PR), J.J. Nelson, Jaron Brown, Chad Williams, Brittan Golden, Aaron Dobson, Marquis Bundy, Krishawn Hogan, Chris Hubert, Ricky Seals-Jones, Marvin Hall, Larry Clark TE: Jermaine Gresham, Troy Niklas, Hakeem Valles, Ifeanyi Momah LT: DJ Humphries, John Wetzel LG: Mike Iupati, Cole Toner C: A.Q. Shipley, Taylor Boggs RG: Evan Boehm, Dorian Johnson RT: Jared Veldheer, Will Holden K: Phil Dawson NT: Corey Peters, Rodney Gunter, Xavier

Williams, Olsen Pierre DE: Frostee Rucker, Robert Nkemdiche, Josh Mauro, Ed Stinson, Nordly Capi ILB: Deone Bucannon (inj), Karlos Dansby, Haason Reddick (O), Scooby Wright, Zaviar Gooden, Philip Wheeler, Gabe Martin, Alani Fua OLB: Chandler Jones, Markus Golden, Jarvis Jones, Kareem Martin CB: Patrick Peterson (PR), Justin Bethel, Brandon Williams, Harlan Miller, Elie Bouka, Tramon Williams, Ronald Zamort (inj) S: Tyrann Mathieu (FS), Antoine Bethea (SS), Tyvon Branch, Budda Baker, Rudy Ford, Christian Bryant, Trevon Hartfield Coaches: Head Coach: Bruce Arians, Off Coord: Harold Goodwin, QB Coach: Byron Leftwich, RB Coach: Freddie Kitchens, WR Coach: Darryl Drake, TE Coach: Rick Christophel, SpecTm Coach: Amos Jones, Def Coord: James Bettcher, DL Coach: Brentson Buckner, LB Coach: Bob Sanders, LB Coach: Larry Foote, DB Coach: Kevin Ross, DB Coach: Nick Rapone

Atlanta Falcons

QB: Matt Ryan and the Falcons defense have exchanged highlights at the expense of the other. While Ryan had some strong plays two weeks ago, the defense has countered with multiple interceptions at Ryan’s expense this week. One of the biggest thorns in Ryan’s side has been Robert Alford. The cornerback has jumped multiple routes for interceptions during practices. Matt Schaub appears locked into the backup role despite some iffy red zone decisions. Matt Simms and Alex Torgersen are competing for the third job. Torgersen has been responsible for multiple turnovers during camp. He has more impressive physical tools than Simms, but Simms has more experience and makes fewer mistakes.

RB: Devonta Freeman signed his contract extension week and started for the Falcons in the opening preseason game. He scored on a misdirection pass play that has been a staple in the offensive playbook throughout the preseason. Third-stringer Terron Ward and rookie Brian Hill are competing for time behind Freeman and Tevin Coleman. Ward outperformed Hill statistically against the Dolphins and earned compliments about his vision from head coach Dan Quinn. Hill, who carried nine times for 10 yards, received a balanced critique from Quinn. “I want to see more of that finish from Hill,” Quinn said to AJC.com’s D. Orlando Ledbetter. “We know he has that kind of toughness, that kind of background. Where he really shined for us last night was on special teams.”

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WR: Julio Jones returned to practice on a limited basis at the end of last week. This week, the Falcons upped the practice time. Jones will earn more plays per day and should see his first action in the third preseason game. With Taylor Gabriel still limited, Reggie Davis and Marvin Hall continue to impress. Davis had a big play called back due to an Eric Saubert holding penalty during the preseason matchup, showing off his speed and vision. Hall is also making plays on special teams, covering and returning kicks. However, veteran Andre Roberts also showed off his return prowess during the game. While Justin Hardy has made plays in the red zone during practice, defenders have victimized Matt Ryan multiple times when Hardy was the target. Davis, Hall, and Roberts all have special team skills that could potentially threaten Hardy’s roster spot.

TE: Austin Hooper has impressed Quinn during camp as a starter and mentor. AJC.com’s D. Orlando Ledbetter notes that Hooper and linebacker DeVondre Campbell have been pushing each other during practice and also working together on their own time. Quinn also credits Hooper for helping rookie Eric Saubert. Saubert has been a camp standout, according to Falcoholics beat writer Jeanna Thomas. The youngster is waging a real battle against second-year Josh Perkins for the #3 role. “Hooper’s been a nice connection for [Saubert]. Both of them are football junkies,” Quinn said. “If you walk past the tight end room, you ‘ll see them in there watching other guys, studying other notes, doing this, and making cuts…We’ve been impressed by Saubert so far. I think he has a role on this team based on his speed. We’re throwing a lot at him and he keeps coming at it.”

K: Matt Bryant missed a 47-yarder against the Dolphins, and rookie Mike Meyer nailed a 53-yarder.

Defense: Vaughn McClure notes, “Robert Alford has made plays throughout camp as he continues to refine his technique. You can see he has the desire to be mentioned among the top cornerbacks.” Alford flashed elite ability when covering Odell Beckham, Jr. in the past. Ra’Shede Hagemen is having a strong camp. “I’m very encouraged by him so far,” Quinn told Falcaholics on Sunday. “He can move like a lighter player, but he plays at 320 pounds. He has the movement of a much lighter guy.” Hagemen could help the Falcons rotation immensely as a rotational player behind free agent acquisition Dontari Poe. Quinn says De’Vondre Campell’s arrow is pointing up, as well, following a move to strongside linebacker. Rookie Takkarist McKinley has repeatedly bullied opponents in one-on-one drills. According to McClure, “McKinley lined up 1-on-1 against tight end Levine Toilolo in drills and absolutely obliterated Toilolo, who has

Returners: Journeyman receiver Andre Roberts remains the frontrunner to win the returner job, and his play in the first preseason game did nothing to diminish that. Lurking on his heels is former undrafted free agent Marvin Hall, an exciting but unproven player trying to make it at a position where risk-adverse coaches typically prefer boring and proven.

OL: Ben Garland started at right guard against the Miami Dolphins. Both he and Wes Schweitzer played well, repeatedly standing up to star defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh at the point of attack. Both appear to be pass protection upgrades over Chris Chester, who had difficulty blocking Suh. It’s not yet clear who will start at the position once we get to the regular season. Garland slid over to backup center when Schweitzer entered the game. Rookie Sean Harlow remains in the right guard mix but will likely start the season as a backup, or perhaps even a practice squad player. Second string offensive tackles D.J. Tialavea, and Daniel Brunskill did not have good games, and each had problems blocking the Dolphins’ backups. Fan favorite Andreas Knappe saw reps at tackle with the third team. Overall the first team line looks solid, but the team’s search for a swing tackle continues. The line grades out as a top-tier unit.

Falcons Depth Chart QB: Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Matt Simms, Alex Torgersen RB: Devonta Freeman (inj), Tevin Coleman (KR), Terron Ward, Brian Hill, B.J. Daniels, Kelvin Taylor FB: Derrick Coleman, Tyler Renew WR: Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, Taylor Gabriel, Justin Hardy, Andre Roberts (KR/PR), Nick Williams, Reggie Davis, Anthony Dable, Marvin Hall, Deante Burton, Josh Magee, Reginald Davis III, Devin Fuller (IR) TE: Austin Hooper, Levine Toilolo, Joshua Perkins, D.J. Tialavea, Eric Saubert, Darion Griswold LT: Jake Matthews, Kevin Graf LG: Andy Levitre C: Alex Mack, Trevor Robinson RG: Wes Schweitzer, Ben Garland, Sean Harlow RT: Ryan Schraeder, Andreas Knappe K: Matt Bryant DT: Grady Jarrett (NT), Dontari Poe, Ra′Shede Hageman, Courtney Upshaw, Joe Vellano, Taniela Tupou DE: Brooks Reed (S), Adrian Clayborn, Jack Crawford, Takkarist McKinley, Derrick Shelby, Chris Odom, Martin Ifedi MLB: Deion Jones, LaRoy Reynolds, Josh Keyes OLB: Vic Beasley (S/DE), De′Vondre Campbell (S), Kemal Ishmael, Duke Riley, Jack Lynn, Jermaine Grace, J′Terius Jones CB: Desmond Trufant, Robert Alford, Jalen Collins (susp), C.J. Goodwin, Blidi Wreh-Wilson, Damontae Kazee, Akeem King, Deji Olatoye, Janor Jones, Quincy

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Mauger, Taylor Reynolds S: Keanu Neal (SS), Ricardo Allen (FS), Brian Poole, Sharrod Neasman, Jordan Moore, Marcelis Branch, Deron Washington Coaches: Head Coach: Dan Quinn, Off Coord: Steve Sarkisian, QB Coach: Bush Hamdan, RB Coach: Keith Carter, WR Coach: Raheem Morris, TE Coach: Wade Harman, OL Coach: Chris Morgan, SpecTm Coach: Keith Armstrong, Def Coord: Marquand Manuel, DL Coach: Brian Young, LB Coach: Jeff Ulbrich, DB Coach: Doug Mallory

Baltimore Ravens

QB: The biggest story in Baltimore is the health of Joe Flacco. As discussed in last week’s report, initial reports were not good for Flacco’s disk injury, but they got better as more information became available. As it stands, Flacco is expected to miss the entire preseason game schedule, but he’ll return to preseason practice and start Week 1 against Cincinnati. Then again, the team said he would need one week of rest before returning to practice, but that was over two weeks ago. The news appears positive, but nothing is assured until Flacco is back to full-go in practice. Ryan Mallett has been working with the first team but has struggled. He was downright bad in Thursday night’s game, but his coach stood behind him. The Colin Kaepernick drumbeat persists, but if Flacco will be ready for the regular season, there isn’t much reason to bring in the controversial free agent.

RB: Terrance West will handle early-down work as the coaches have hinted they’ll be more committed to the run this season. West has lost 12 pounds, worked hard on his pass blocking, and took tips on his route-running from Danny Woodhead. He wants to be the Frank Gore of Greg Roman’s previous offenses in San Francisco. However, Roman is just the tight ends coach. The offensive coordinator is Marty Mornhinweg, who is notoriously pass-happy. Woodhead will certainly have a role, but West seems to have done what it takes to be at least a two-down player. West’s self-confidence led to his offering advice to prospective fantasy owners: “Y’all be smart to grab me. That’s the smart way to do it,” he said. “Why’s that? You’ll see.” West and Woodhead should handle most of the work, but keep an eye on Javorius Allen. Allen is a good pass blocker and capable receiver. Bobby Rainey is also in the mix for early-down depth.

WR: The biggest question in the receiving corps is how the snaps will be divvied up among the top three – Mike Wallace, Jeremy Maclin, and Breshad Perriman. According to BaltimoreRavens.com, Mike Wallace is

“without a doubt” the number one receiver. Jeremy Maclin is getting more comfortable with the offense and could push Perriman for the starting outside role. Perriman has a Grade-2 hamstring strain that has kept him out since August 1. It’s yet another bad break for the third-year player out of the University of Central Florida. With the top three options sitting on Thursday, a number of the backups saw significant snaps. Rookie Tim White was impressive but unfortunately went on Injured Reserve with a thumb injury. That leaves Chris Moore, Michael Campanaro, Chris Matthews, Griff Whalen, and Quincy Adeboyejo competing for two or three roster spots. Adeboyejo has been the standout over the past week.

TE: After losing Dennis Pitta and Crockett Gillmore to injuries and Darren Waller to a PED suspension, many are wondering who grabs the reins. Ben Watson, Nick Boyle, and Maxx Williams are doing their best to answer that question. Watson and Williams are both coming back from injuries but are making strides. Watson is playing well and has caught a few touchdowns in practice. Boyle is also in the coaches’ good graces.

Defense: With all of the injuries on offense, the defense will have to pick up the slack, and the unit looks up to the task. From the all-world veterans to the up-and-comers, the defense has shown well in practice and the first preseason game. For example, Terrell Suggs is a player who doesn’t have anything to prove, but he registered sack right out of the gate on Thursday. Veteran safety Eric Weddle looks poised to have another strong season, as well. Starting defensive end Brent Urban has been active in camp and practically lived in the Washington backfield in Thursday’s game. The Ravens spent their second and third-round rookie draft picks on pass rushers, acquiring Tyus Bowser and Tim Williams. Both have shown drawn rave reviews from many including former Ravens standout linebacker Adalius Thomas. Perhaps the only issue for the defense is that first-round pick Marlon Humphrey has been out with an undisclosed injury since August 3rd.

Returners: Undrafted rookie returner candidate Tim White fell victim to a season-ending thumb injury in the preseason opener. The Ravens still haven't nailed down a solid pecking order, but White was unlikely to make a significant impact anyway. Michael Campanaro and Chris Moore remain the favorites to land the punt and kickoff return roles, respectively.

OL: It has been a rough week for the offensive line, as left guard Alex Lewis tore his labrum and will miss the season. Lewis is a promising second-year player who was expected to start at guard and possibly provide another option at right tackle. With fourth round rookie Nico Siragusa already out for the season (torn ACL and

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MCL in his knee) James Hurst slid from right tackle to left guard to replace Lewis. Hurst appears to have the lead on the job over Jermaine Eluemunor and Matt Skura. Austin Howard (recently cut by the Oakland Raiders) seems to have the right tackle job locked up. Free agent center Jeremy Zuttah recently visited his old squad, but he left town without a contract. The team plans to start Ryan Jensen at center. Overall the line still has two top notch players in Marshal Yanda and Ronnie Stanley, but the injuries are piling up, and the unit grades out as a lower tier group.

Ravens Depth Chart QB: Joe Flacco (inj), Ryan Mallett, Josh Woodrum, Thad Lewis RB: Terrance West, Danny Woodhead (3RB), Javorius Allen, Lorenzo Taliaferro, Bobby Rainey, Taquan Mizzell, Kenneth Dixon (inj) (susp) FB: Ricky Ortiz WR: Jeremy Maclin, Mike Wallace, Breshad Perriman (inj), Chris Moore (KR), Michael Campanaro, Chris Matthews, Keenan Reynolds, Griff Whalen, Kenny Bell, Vince Mayle, Quincy Adeboyejo, Aaron Bailey, C.J. Board, Tim White TE: Benjamin Watson, Nick Boyle, Maxx Williams, Larry Donnell, Ryan Malleck, Darren Waller (susp), Crockett Gillmore (IR) LT: Ronnie Stanley LG: James Hurst, Alex Lewis (IR), Nico Siragusa (IR) C: Ryan Jensen, Matt Skura RG: Marshal Yanda RT: Austin Howard, Jermaine Eluemunor K: Justin Tucker NT: Brandon Williams, Michael Pierce, Carl Davis DE: Brent Urban, Bronson Kaufusi, Chris Wormley, Willie Henry ILB: C.J. Mosley, Kamalei Correa, Albert McClellan, Patrick Onwuasor, Lamar Louis, Cavellis Luckett, Boseko Lokombo OLB: Terrell Suggs, Za′Darius Smith, Matt Judon, Tyus Bowser, Tim Williams, Brennan Beyer CB: Jimmy Smith (inj), Brandon Carr, Marlon Humphrey, Chuck Clark, Sheldon Price, Brandon Boykins, Maurice Canady (inj), Tavon Young (IR) S: Eric Weddle (FS), Tony Jefferson (SS), Anthony Levine (FS), Lardarius Webb (FS/CB), Otha Foster (SS) Coaches: Head Coach: John Harbaugh, Off Coord: Marty Mornhinweg, RB Coach: Thomas Hammock, WR Coach: Bobby Engram, TE Coach: Greg Roman, OL Coach: Joe DAlessandris, SpecTm Coach: Jerry Rosburg, Def Coord: Dean Pees, DL Coach: Joe Cullen, LB Coach: Don Martindale, DB Coach: Mike Macdonald, DB Coach: Chris Hewitt

Buffalo Bills

QB: Tyrod Taylor started against the Vikings on Thursday night in the team's preseason opener and played into the 2nd quarter. He opened with three completions to Sammy Watkins before taking a big hit on an 11-yard loss, as the offensive line struggled in pass protection. Taylor has shown flashes of being an effective passing quarterback but lacks consistency, and the trade of Watkins (the following day) leaves him without his best deep threat. It's become clear the Bills are focused on landing their quarterback of the future in the 2018 draft with the added picks they have acquired. T.J. Yates hasn't been given a great opportunity, but what we have seen thus far does not instill confidence in his ability to lead the offense. Nathan Peterman took over late in the third quarter and looked impressive, albeit against players who are unlikely to contribute much. In any event, Peterman was rewarded by the coaches and took all second team reps in practice on Sunday.

RB: LeSean McCoy sat out against the Vikings as a precaution, but has looked to be in midseason form throughout training camp. Jonathan Williams got the start and looked very impressive with 49 yards on just four carries (12.3 yards per rush) before leaving early with a minor hamstring injury. Mike Tolbert also looked solid, and it appears both players can be productive running behind the Bills stellar offensive line if McCoy were to go down. The rest of the running back stable failed to make a case for a spot on the 53-man roster.

WR: The Bills sent shockwaves through the league with the trade of Sammy Watkins to the Rams on Friday for a 2nd round pick and cornerback E.J. Gaines. With just one year left on his deal, it was evident they didn't feel comfortable with his injury history and were concerned about how much money it will take to sign him long-term. The trade creates an enormous offensive hole, as Watkins was a clear #1 receiver and one of the best deep threats in the league. The team acquired Jordan Matthews from the Eagles in a separate trade to fill the gap, but he has been most effective working out of the slot and could be a poor fit for a quarterback that prefers to throw outside. He also has a chip fracture in his sternum and is being called “week to week.” Andre Holmes had been working with the starters, but has struggled with drops and could have trouble making the final roster. Rod Streater has been a camp standout but saw limited action in the game. The team will need to work quickly to get Anquan Boldin comfortable with his new surroundings. Boldin and rookie Zay Jones will need to play significant roles immediately.

TE: Charles Clay started and played seventeen snaps against the Vikings, but was not targeted. His knee

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remains a concern, but the team hopes it can manage the issue by giving him enough rest between games. Nick O'Leary and Logan Thomas saw plenty of work and combined for seven targets, but only caught three of them. The loss of Watkins should open up more targets for Clay, but it will be interesting to see if the new coaches can get him more involved than the last group did.

Defense: The defense showed well against the Vikings, holding them to just three points on six drives in the first half. Defensive end Shaq Lawson sat out with a groin injury, but Eddie Yarbrough looked great in his place as he consistently disrupted the Vikings’ passing game. He's been one of the most-talked about players in camp thus far, and likely projects to be the team's top reserve at defensive end. At linebacker, there were no surprises in the starting lineup, but Gerald Hodges has received more work with the second team defense of late. That pushes Reggie Ragland down to the third string, who may not be a fit for this new defensive system. It’s still too early to give up on him, however, as he did lead the team in tackles in the game. In the secondary, the Bills got a huge downgrade at corner as they shipped out Ronald Darby to the Eagles and acquired E.J. Gaines from the Rams in separate deals. That leaves the Bills without any of their top three cornerbacks from last season, so the competition for jobs will be wide open with rookie 1st round pick Tre'Davious White likely leading the way. Gaines struggled with the Rams but does provide experienced depth at least.

Returners: While the Bills rocked the NFL on Friday with a pair of unexpected trades, neither impact the special teams units. Reliable veteran Brandon Tate is a strong front-runner to hold on to the returner job for a second season.

OL: Left tackle Cordy Glenn is day to day with a foot injury. Glenn had been suffering from chronic soreness recently, and he saw a specialist to see if the injury required surgery. The news was reportedly good on that front, but Glenn did not dress for the preseason loss against Minnesota. Glenn is likely to be fine for the season opener, but the situation bears watching. In Glenn’s place, Seantrel Henderson got the start at left tackle; he was beaten for a sack by Vikings’ defender Everson Griffen. Henderson is suspended for five games to start the season, leaving Dion Dawkins or Cameron Jefferson to start Week One if Glenn can’t go. At right tackle, Jordan Mills has stepped up his play since Dawkins was drafted, and he appears to have control over that starting position. Overall the line grades out as a top-tier unit, assuming Glenn is healthy.

Bills Depth Chart QB: Tyrod Taylor, Nathan Peterman, T.J. Yates

RB: LeSean McCoy, Jonathan Williams, Joe Banyard, Taiwan Jones, Cedric O′Neal, Jordan Johnson FB: Patrick DiMarco, Mike Tolbert WR: Anquan Boldin, Zay Jones, Jordan Matthews (inj), Corey Brown, Andre Holmes, Rod Streater, Brandon Tate (KR), Walter Powell (susp), Dezmin Lewis, Jeremy Butler, Rashad Ross, Daikiel Shorts, Brandon Reilly TE: Charles Clay, Nick O′Leary, Logan Thomas, Jason Croom LT: Cordy Glenn, Seantrel Henderson, Michael Ola LG: Richie Incognito, Ryan Groy C: Eric Wood, Patrick Lewis RG: John Miller, Vlad Ducasse RT: Jordan Mills, Dion Dawkins K: Stephen Hauschka DT: Marcell Dareus (NT), Kyle Williams, Adolphus Washington, Jerel Worthy, Deandre Coleman DE: Jerry Hughes, Shaq Lawson, Eddie Yarbrough, Ryan Davis, Jake Metz MLB: Preston Brown (W), Reggie Ragland, Tanner Vallejo OLB: Lorenzo Alexander (S), Ramon Humber (W), Gerald Hodges, Matt Milano, Max Valles, Carl Bradford, Sam Barrington, Junior Sylvestre, Jacob Lindsey CB: Kevon Seymour, Tre′Davious White, E.J. Gaines, Leonard Johnson, Shareece Wright, Charles Gaines, Marcus Roberson, Jumal Rolle S: Micah Hyde (SS)(PR), Jordan Poyer (FS), Colt Anderson (SS), Shamiel Gary (SS), Johnathan Dowling, Bacarri Rambo, Trae Elston, Joe Powell, Bradley Sylve Coaches: Head Coach: Sean McDermott, Off Coord: Rick Dennison, QB Coach: David Culley, RB Coach: Kelly Skipper, WR Coach: Phil McGeoghan, TE Coach: Rob Boras, OL Coach: Juan Castillo, SpecTm Coach: Danny Crossman, Def Coord: Leslie Frazier, DL Coach: Mike Waufle, LB Coach: Bobby Babich, DB Coach: Gil Byrd

Carolina Panthers

QB: Cam Newton sat out against the Texans in the preseason opener. However, he threw short passes with trainers on the sideline earlier in the week and then threw during individual drills near the end of the week. He threw again on the last day of camp, this time in red zone drills. According to Adam Schefter, Newton is expected to play at some point in the preseason. For now, Derek Anderson has still been handling the majority of first team drills and played the first three series in Wednesday’s game. He completed four of five passes for 76 yards, including a perfectly placed 23-yard pass to Kelvin Benjamin in the end zone. Joe Webb took

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over for Anderson and was less consistent. He threw two touchdowns to Damiere Byrd and used his speed and a strong stiff-arm to escape a sack. Webb also threw an interception in the end zone and completed just 50% of his passes. Despite Webb’s mistakes, Ron Rivera said he was “very pleased” with his performance. Both Anderson and Webb have been inconsistent in practice.

RB: While Christian McCaffrey was not exactly electrifying in the preseason opener, he nevertheless showed speed, poise, and reliability. He had seven carries for 33 yards, including a 12-yard run that would have resulted in a touchdown if McCaffrey had kept his feet. He also showed his versatility, running up the middle (inside) and around the end (outside). After the game, McCaffrey said he felt he should have stayed on his feet on a couple of plays, but said, “It felt great. You get so lost in the grind sometimes you forget that football is the best thing in the world.” Backup Jalen Simmons led the team with nine carries for 38 yards. It was a mix of good (a 19-yard gain) and bad (a fumble) for the young roster hopeful. Cameron Artis-Payne ran ineffectively. He had 22 yards on six carries, but four of those carries went for no gain.

WR: Despite having a relatively quiet camp, Kelvin Benjamin silenced his doubters with a spectacular over-the-shoulder leaping catch for a touchdown in Wednesday’s game. “I’m feeling good again,” Benjamin said. “I am ready to get Cam (Newton) back out there so we can rebuild that chemistry." Though Devin Funchess only caught one four-yard pass against the Texans, he continues to look good in practice. Curtis Samuel is still out with a knee injury, but he has been running routes and catching passes on the sideline. The real star of the preseason game was Damiere Byrd. He made the most of the four targets, grabbing two touchdowns and 98 yards. Ron Rivera had high praise for the third-year player, saying he would have given the game ball to Byrd. Byrd is “taking advantage” of his opportunities and showing that “he has abilities,” according to Rivera. The coach also had good things to say about Kaelin Clay and Austin Duke. Clay was most impressive as a punt returner, but he did have one reception for 11 yards. After hearing so many good things about Duke early in camp, his performance in the preseason game was mildly disappointing. Duke fumbled the ball on his first play and then dropped the next pass that came his way. The battle for the fourth and fifth receiver spots is still very tight. Brenton Bersin has been a front runner for one of the backup spots, but he went down early in the game with a quad injury.

TE: Except for Greg Olsen, the tight ends had a very quiet week. Olsen had a 32-yard reception against the Texans in limited work with the starting unit. No matter which quarterback has the ball, Olsen remains a favorite target. Cam Newton’s first throw in team drills in nearly

two weeks fittingly went to Olsen. Ed Dickson has been used primarily as a blocker. Chris Manhertz is hanging on to the third spot. He had a quiet debut in the preseason game but caught a nice leaping touchdown from Anderson on the last day of camp.

Defense: Julius Peppers had been dealing with a minor hip injury for the last several days that held him out of the camp practices, but he’s now back and ready to roll. Second-year cornerback James Bradberry has been jaw-dropping in camp, earning the nicknames “the real deal” and “the quiet assassin” from teammates. Bradberry logged a tackle and an assist in the first preseason game. Though Daryl Worley did not make any big plays in the game, he has had a strong camp and has shown he can be just as much of a force as Bradberry. Backup strongside linebacker Jared Norris had a big night against the Texans. He racked up eight tackles and four assists. Fellow backup linebacker David Mayo logged five tackles and three assists and forced a fumble that was recovered by safety Dezmen Southward. Southward, a journeyman who has spent time with the Falcons and the Colts, made six tackles and was constantly around the ball. Rookie cornerback Cole Luke has been making the most of limited opportunities. Bradberry called Luke a “smart player” who has played both inside and outside with confidence. Luke had five tackles and four assists versus Houston. Backup defensive tackle Vernon Butler sprained his left knee against the Texans; the team is hopeful he can be ready for the season opener.

K: Graham Gano’s 50-yard miss went off of an upright, and rookie Harrison Butker hit a 51-yarder versus the Texans, but Gano was viewed as the clear leader going into the preseason opener and might not be in trouble. According to at least one account, Gano has had the stronger leg throughout camp, and he showed it again on his 65-yard make in the last practice of camp.

Returners: With reliable veteran Fozzy Whittaker and flashy rookie Christian McCaffrey liable to lead the team in kickoff and punt returns, respectively, the Panthers are widely searching for depth behind them. Rookie Damiere Byrd might have just secured a roster spot with a massive preseason debut on offense, (4 catches, 98 yards, two touchdowns), which is important because Byrd is also a candidate for special teams work and could serve as a backup returner at both positions.

OL: Tyler Larsen got the start at center in the preseason win against Houston. As usual, pivot man Ryan Kalil was given a veteran’s day of rest. Ryan’s brother Matt Kalil joined the Panthers this offseason, and the younger sibling got the start at left tackle, where he held up well against Jadeveon Clowney. Daryl Williams appears to have the right tackle job locked up as Taylor

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Moton has been working primarily as a backup at left guard. After providing right guard Trai Turner with a big money extension, the team may not have the cash to re-sign left guard Andrew Norwell after this season and could view Moton as a long-term solution. Amini Silatolu has been playing surprisingly well as the primary backup left tackle. The Panthers’ offensive line grades out as a solid mid-tier unit.

Panthers Depth Chart

QB: Cam Newton, Derek Anderson, Garrett Gilbert, Joe Webb (KR) RB: Jonathan Stewart, Christian McCaffrey, Fozzy Whittaker, Cameron Artis-Payne, Jalen Simmons FB: Darrel Young, Alex Armah WR: Kelvin Benjamin, Devin Funchess, Russell Shepard, Curtis Samuel (inj), Damiere Byrd, Brenton Bersin, Fred Ross, Keyarris Garrett, LaRon Byrd, T.J. Graham, Kaelin Clay, Austin Duke, Mose Frazier, Charles Johnson (IR) TE: Greg Olsen, Ed Dickson, Scott Simonson, Chris Manhertz LT: Matt Kalil, Amini Silatolu LG: Andrew Norwell, Taylor Moton, David Yankey C: Ryan Kalil, Tyler Larsen, Gino Gradkowski RG: Trai Turner, Chris Scott RT: Daryl Williams K: Graham Gano, Harrison Butker DT: Star Lotulelei (NT), Kawann Short, Vernon Butler, Kyle Love, Chas Alecxih DE: Charles Johnson, Mario Addison, Julius Peppers, Daeshon Hall, Wes Horton, Bryan Cox Jr., Larry Webster MLB: Luke Kuechly, Jared Norris, Ben Boulware OLB: Thomas Davis (S), Shaq Thompson (W), David Mayo (S), Jeremy Cash (S), Brian Blechen CB: James Bradberry (inj), Daryl Worley, Captain Munnerlyn, Corn Elder (inj), Zach Sanchez, Teddy Williams, Damian Parms S: Kurt Coleman (FS), Mike Adams (SS), Colin Jones, Dean Marlowe, Travell Dixon Coaches: Head Coach: Ron Rivera, Off Coord: Mike Shula, QB Coach: Ken Dorsey, RB Coach: Jim Skipper, WR Coach: Lance Taylor, TE Coach: Pete Hoener, OL Coach: Ray Brown, SpecTm Coach: Thomas McGaughey, Def Coord: Steven Wilks, DL Coach: Eric Washington, LB Coach: Al Holcomb, DB Coach: Curtis Fuller

Chicago Bears

QB: The quarterback controversy is heating up. Mike Glennon had a very disappointing showing in the preseason opener against a tough Broncos defense. He floated a pass into heavy coverage that was picked off and returned for a touchdown early in the game and finished just 2-of-8 for 20 yards. Mark Sanchez didn't fare much better in his brief cameo. The night belonged to rookie Mitchell Trubisky. He displayed tremendous accuracy by completing his first ten passes and leading the team to 17 points on his first three series under center. His mobility was evident as he ran for 38 yards on three attempts while frequently escaping the pocket and making perfect throws on the run. It’s no surprise Glennon struggled against the Broncos dominating defense, but that won’t quiet the calls for Trubisky to get 1st team reps. Glennon needs a much better showing against the Cardinals this week to regain control.

RB: Jordan Howard got the start against the Broncos, but saw limited work with just three carries in eight snaps. Howard’s snaps will be limited to keep him healthy for the regular season. Rookie Tarik Cohen provided a spark playing with the second teamers. At just 5'6", Cohen lacks ideal size but has enough speed to turn the corner. He gained 39 yards on seven carries while also adding 17 yards on a punt return. Bennie Cunningham played the bulk of snaps and looked impressive. The Bears appear to have solid depth at the position. Ka'Deem Carey suffered a minor injury late in the game and was held out of weekend practices while Jeremy Langford returned to practice on Saturday.

WR: The Bears opened the preseason game in a three tight end (3TE) formation with Kevin White as the only receiver. White and Cameron Meredith combined for just a single catch on four targets. The first team offense picked things back up in practice over the weekend, however, and Glennon connected with White and Meredith repeatedly. Markus Wheaton missed two weeks of camp recovering from an appendectomy and then broke his finger on Sunday. Wheaton’s absence creates more opportunities for Kendall Wright and Victor Cruz. Cruz caught a two-yard touchdown from Trubisky, but the fact he played well into the 4th quarter calls his roster spot into question. Deonte Thompson led all receivers with five catches on eight targets, and also made some big plays in the return game. Rueben Randle was placed on injured reserve following a hamstring injury.

TE: All three tight ends (Zach Miller, Dion Sims, and Adam Shaheen) were on the field for the opening play of the Broncos game, but they only combined for two catches on five targets. Miller had a drive-killing drop on a throw that was a little low, but otherwise, the group

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didn't stand out. Miller and Glennon are working well in practice together; he should be the leading receiving tight end as long as he's healthy while Dion Sims will see extensive work as a blocker in 2TE sets. Rookie Adam Shaheen is a player to watch and will certainly play a bigger role once he adjusts to the NFL. Tanner Gentry is also drawing praise for his jump-ball abilities in camp, but he’s unlikely to make the 53-man roster.

Defense: The defense put together a strong effort against the Broncos, led in part by Leonard Floyd who broke through for a sack on the first defensive snap of the game. Several other second-year players made an impact as defensive end Jonathan Bullard picked up a tackle for loss, and inside linebacker Nick Kwiatkoski led the team with six tackles. The only player missing from the starting lineup was Danny Trevathan who continues to rehab from a patellar injury. The defense only gave up six first downs in the first half and forced the Broncos to go three-and-out three times on five possessions. Unfortunately, the deep reserves collapsed late to give the game away. The cornerbacks didn't come up with any big plays, but Prince Amukamara has a playmaker in practice and Kyle Fuller has been much more aggressive against the run and pass. Overall, the Bears defense has potential to surprise people this year.

K: Connor Barth only had to hold off rookie Andy Phillips when the week began, but the Bears claimed Roberto Aguayo after the Buccaneers waived him. Aguayo, a former second round draft pick, might be stiffer competition if the release gets him over his jitters. Barth’s fate is still undetermined, so he’s a bottom of the barrel option in drafts.

Returners: The question entering the 2017 season was whether the Bears had a punt returner on the roster. The answer might turn out to be that they have two, as rookies Eddie Jackson and Tarik Cohen both performed well in their first preseason action. Asked about the two after the game, special team’s coordinator Jeff Rodgers declined to name a favorite, “Tarik is a little more explosive, Eddie is a little more smooth. Eddie is a little bigger.”

OL: Left guard Kyle Long was ejected from practice on Monday for fighting with his offensive line teammates. Long had a terrible ankle injury last year, and due to a reaction to post-surgery medication, he lost 50 pounds in the offseason. Long and Josh Sitton switched sides in the offseason, and Long appears to be having more difficulty with the transition than Sitton. Sitton has NFL experience playing both sides, while Long played his entire career at either right guard or right tackle. Long missed the preseason loss to the Denver Broncos, but he has been working back into shape in team drills. Tom Compton has been getting the first team reps in Long’s

place, and he has been playing well. Look for Long to make his debut in the next preseason game. Center Cody Whitehair had a bad shotgun snap in the game, leading to a turnover. The team has other options at center, including Hroniss Grasu who showed potential as a possible starter before his injury last season. Assuming Long rejoins the lineup (and can stop fighting his teammates) the offensive line remains a mid-tier unit with upside to reach the top tier.

Bears Depth Chart QB: Mike Glennon, Mitchell Trubisky, Mark Sanchez, Connor Shaw RB: Jordan Howard, Jeremy Langford, Benny Cunningham, Tarik Cohen (PR), Ka′Deem Carey (KR) FB: Michael Burton, Freddie Stevenson WR: Cameron Meredith, Kevin White, Kendall Wright, Markus Wheaton, Victor Cruz, Joshua Bellamy, Daniel Braverman, Rueben Randle, Deonte Thompson (KR), Tanner Gentry, Titus Davis TE: Zach Miller, Dion Sims, Adam Shaheen , Daniel Brown, Ben Braunecker, MyCole Pruitt LT: Charles Leno, Bradley Sowell LG: Kyle Long, Cyril Richardson C: Cody Whitehair, Hroniss Grasu, Jordan Morgan RG: Josh Sitton, Tom Compton, Eric Kush (IR) RT: Bobby Massie K: Connor Barth, Roberto Aguayo NT: Eddie Goldman, C.J. Wilson DE: Akiem Hicks, Mitch Unrein, Jonathan Bullard, Jaye Howard, Kapron Lewis-Moore, John Jenkins ILB: Danny Trevathan, Jerrell Freeman, Nick Kwiatkoski, Christian Jones, John Timu, Jonathan Anderson, Richie Brown, Danny Mason OLB: Leonard Floyd, Lamarr Houston, Pernell McPhee (inj), Willie Young, Dan Skuta, Sam Acho, Roy Robertson-Harris CB: Prince Amukamara, Marcus Cooper (inj), Kyle Fuller, B.W. Webb, Bryce Callahan, Deiondre′ Hall, B.W. Webb, Sherrick McManis, Johnthan Banks, Cre’von LeBlanc, Rashaad Reynolds S: Adrian Amos (FS), Quintin Demps (SS), Harold Jones-Quartey (SS), Eddie Jackson (FS/PR), Deandre Houston-Carson (FS), Chris Prosinki, Deon Bush (SS) Coaches: Head Coach: John Fox, Off Coord: Dowell Loggains, QB Coach: Dave Ragone, RB Coach: Curtis Modkins, WR Coach: Zach Azzanni, TE Coach: Frank Smith, OL Coach: Jeremiah Washburn, SpecTm Coach: Jeff Rodgers, Def Coord: Vic Fangio, DL Coach: Jay Rodgers, LB Coach: Glenn Pires, DB Coach: Ed Donatell

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Cincinnati Bengals

QB: Andy Dalton completed his first four passes against the Buccaneers but ruined the drive with an interception in the end zone. He quickly gave way to A.J. McCarron who was solid, if unspectacular in his quarter of play. McCarron had an inconsistent camp, which may explain why his name has been attached to trade rumors. A report out of Denver suggesting the Broncos were pursuing McCarron was quickly shot down so there may be smoke but no fire. Third-stringer Jeff Driskel was outstanding against Tampa Bay, playing the entire second half. He made the play of the game on a 16-yard rushing touchdown where he juked a pair of defenders, causing them to run into each other. “I thought he had (only) one incomplete pass there,” said Marvin Lewis. “He did a good job managing (the game), and he’s done a great job thus far in camp, so his first time getting out in a game, (it was) good exposure for him.”

RB: Joe Mixon had an excellent camp, with at least one “wow” play in every practice. Mixon also played well in the preseason opener with a couple of highlight-reel plays that showed off his speed and elusiveness. “We’ve seen him make plays like that all camp,” Andy Dalton said. “It’s good to see him like that in action.” Mixon’s pass blocking is crucial to earning a significant role, and so far, so good. “He knows what he’s doing,” Dalton said. “For me back there, it’s communicating and helping him out as much as I can. If I know somebody’s coming, I can say, hey, this dude’s coming so he can block his man. When he knows who he’s going to, he can block people. He’s big and strong. I thought it was great. He knew exactly where his guy was and he went over and picked him up.” Mixon will have a key role, but veteran Jeremy Hill remains in the team’s plans, too. Hill received the preseason start and played well, breaking off some long runs. Giovani Bernard was held out of the preseason opener as a precaution but provides the Bengals with an added dimension in the passing game that neither Mixon nor Hill can.

WR: A.J. Green played the first series of the preseason opener and made a big catch. He’s healthy and primed for a big season. Rookie fourth-rounder Josh Malone has exceeded expectations. He’s made some splashy plays in camp and caught a touchdown in his preseason debut. As Andy Dalton noted, “He’s a talented guy; he has all the tools. “ The 21-year old Malone is 6’3” and ran a 4.40 at the NFL Combine. The depth chart is crowded, but Malone should eventually get his chance to make a fantasy impact if he continues to develop.

TE: Tyler Eifert is healthy and started the preseason opener. Backup C.J. Uzomah suffered a severely sprained ankle last week and could be out for the remainder of the preseason. His injury opens the door

for fellow third-year tight end Tyler Kroft to earn the backup role. Kroft has improved as a pass catcher, particularly in the red zone.

Defense: A mediocre pass rush was the defense’s Achilles heel in 2016. The team hopes the addition of three young pass rushers fixes the problem. Rookie Carl Lawson has been the star of camp and graded out as one of the top three Bengals defenders against Tampa Bay. While Lawson played well, it was a pair of young edge rushers who stole the show in the preseason opener. Chris Smith, acquired by the Bengals in a trade with Jacksonville before the draft, recorded six pressures in 32 snaps. He is making a strong push to stick around as a situational pass rusher. Rookie third-rounder Jordan Willis also excelled; he had a sack and three pressures. Willis could quickly push veteran Michael Johnson out of the starting lineup.

K: Rookie Jake Elliott and journeyman Randy Bullock are waging a very close competition, one that did not gain any separation after the preseason opener. Bullock was good from 54 and 49 yards and made his point-after attempt, while Elliott made a 45-yarder and his PAT. This competition could come down to wire.

Returners: Few teams have as much stability at the return positions than Cincinnati. The Bengals return the key cogs in a unit that ranked in the top 3 in both kickoff return yards and yards per return last year. Alex Erickson will make the roster and handle the bulk of returns. If the Bengals need a splashy play, they could turn to long-time returner Adam Jones, or else they could involve one of their top two rookies, John Ross and Joe Mixon.

OL: In the preseason win over Tampa Bay, the new look Bengals’ offensive line got an entire half together to work out the kinks. And while the offense was productive, the line is young, and they are making mistakes that young players tend to make. With so many new starters, offensive line coach Paul Alexander has his hands full this season. Right guard Andre Smith did not suit up due to coaching decision (probably a veteran rest day) and Trey Hopkins did a decent job in his place. The line as a whole was serviceable, but there were issues with left tackle Cedric Ogbuehi’s pass protection all evening. Also, center Russel Bodine had a notable whiff block, and right tackle Jake Fisher continued his inconsistent play. The line has seen a ton of turnover this offseason, and they grade out as a low-tier unit.

Bengals Depth Chart QB: Andy Dalton, A.J. McCarron, Jeff Driskel RB: Joe Mixon, Giovani Bernard, Jeremy Hill, Cedric Peerman, Brandon Wilson, Tra Carson FB: Ryan Hewitt (HB)

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WR: A.J. Green, Brandon LaFell, John Ross, Tyler Boyd, Cody Core, Josh Malone, Alex Erickson (KR/PR), Jake Kumerow, Alonzo Russell, Levonte Whitfield, Chris Brown TE: Tyler Eifert, C.J. Uzomah, Tyler Kroft, Mason Schreck, Cethan Carter LT: Jake Fisher LG: Clint Boling, Trey Hopkins C: Russell Bodine, T.J. Johnson, JJ Dielman RG: Andre Smith, Christian Westerman RT: Cedric Ogbuehi, Eric Winston K: Randy Bullock, Jonathan Brown, Jake Elliott DT: Geno Atkins, Andrew Billings, Pat Sims, Ryan Glasgow, Brandon Thompson, DeShawn Williams, Marcus Hardison, David Dean DE: Carlos Dunlap, Michael Johnson, Wallace Gilberry, Jordan Willis, Will Clarke, Ryan Brown, Jason Carr MLB: Kevin Minter, Vincent Rey, Jordan Evans, Hardy Nickerson OLB: Vontaze Burfict (W), Nick Vigil (S), Marquis Flowers (W), Carl Lawson (S), P.J. Dawson (S), Bryson Albright (S) CB: Dre Kirkpatrick, Adam Jones (KR/PR), Darqueze Dennard, William Jackson III, Josh Shaw, Keivarae Russell, Tony McRae S: George Iloka (inj), Shawn Williams (SS), Derron Smith (FS), Clayton Fejedelem (SS), Demetrius Cox Coaches: Head Coach: Marvin Lewis, Off Coord: Ken Zampese, QB Coach: Bill Lazor, RB Coach: Kyle Caskey, WR Coach: James Urban, TE Coach: Jonathan Hayes, OL Coach: Paul Alexander, SpecTm Coach: Darrin Simmons, Def Coord: Paul Guenther, DL Coach: Jacob Burney, LB Coach: Jim Haslett, DB Coach: Robert Livingston, DB Coach: Kevin Coyle

Cleveland Browns

QB: In something of a surprise move, Hue Jackson told the media that Brock Osweiler would get the start in the team’s preseason contest against the Saints. Osweiler played poorly, overthrowing his receivers on several occasions. He continues to throw interceptions in practices, drawing his head coach’s ire, “I don’t want interceptions. I want our defense to get them, but I don’t want the quarterbacks to throw them.” Outside of a 31-yard completion to Josh Boyce, Cody Kessler played conservatively but competently. Kessler has been steady and safe in practices, too. Rookie DeShone Kizer stole the show against the Saints. He totaled 184 yards and completed 11-of-18 passes, showing great arm strength in the process. He displayed poise by evading pressure and throwing downfield accurately with anticipation. Kizer nearly scored on a 53-yard bomb to Richard

Mullaney, but Mullaney was tackled at the one-yard line. Later in the fourth quarter, Kizer connected with Jordan Payton on a game-winning 45-yard touchdown strike. After the game, Kizer said of his performance, “I can definitely say from the scrimmage to now that I'm still heading in the right direction.” In a conference call a day later, Hue Jackson acknowledged that Kizer had progressed. "I think DeShone did some really good things. I think there are some things we have to get cleaned up with him really quickly. But did he take a step? Yes, he did. Obviously, he did." Coach Jackson would not rule out Kizer starting in the next preseason game but indicated he would need to see more from Kizer in the team’s six practices before the next preseason game against the Giants. Kizer did begin splitting first team repetitions with Osweiler over the weekend.

RB: The Browns used Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson in the manner most expected. Crowell rushed six times for 15 yards and added another nine-yard catch before exiting with the other starters. Duke Johnson showed off his versatility; lining up in the backfield, the slot, and as a wide receiver. Receivers coach Al Saunders likened Johnson to Marshall Faulk because of his versatility. Speaking of Johnson and Faulk, Saunders said, "They're like the queen on the chess board. They can move to every spot. They can do everything, and they give you an advantage when it comes to personnel matchups.'' Matt Dayes took a step closer to securing the #3 spot on the depth chart. He made an impressive cut that kept him from getting stuffed for a loss. Instead, he found the crease and scored a touchdown.

WR: Neither Corey Coleman nor Kenny Britt has established themselves as the go-to guy thus far. The poor play at quarterback over the past week has made it tough to excel. Britt had a one-handed grab on a deep sideline pass from Kizer in practice. Coleman was able to catch a 70-yard touchdown from Osweiler on the next practice day. On another positive note for Coleman, he was found not to have been involved in an assault that took place on New Year's Eve and the case was closed. When asked about how he felt about being cleared, Coleman responded, “I’m moving past that, man. Strictly football. I don’t want to answer any questions about that, to be honest with you.” Ricardo Louis, Rashard Higgins, and Jordan Payton remain bunched in their bid for roster spots. Undrafted free agent Richard Mullaney made a couple of standout plays that may give him a chance to stick on the active roster.

TE: The tight ends were quiet in the preseason opener. Seth DeValve got open a few times, but when Osweiler threw to him, he was usually off target. DeValve did manage to bring in two passes for 14 yards on the evening. Randall Telfer, known primarily as a blocker, caught a pair of passes for 15 yards. David Njoku sat out

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the preseason game recovering from a back injury. He returned to practice a few days later and looked fine. Njoku recently told the media that he would like to have a career akin to that of Ozzie Newsome, the former Browns great and current General Manager for the Baltimore Ravens. "After I got drafted here, I started watching video of Ozzie. He's a beast. Really explosive, great athlete. Just trying to uphold the same legacy," said Njoku.

Defense: Myles Garrett impressed in his preseason debut, notching a tackle for loss, and a quarterback pressure while beating blocks consistently. After reviewing the game film, Coach Jackson praised Garrett, “I loved the hustle plays that he made. I thought he had a good game last night, and he has to continue to build on that as we move forward.” Garrett was satisfied with his work, “I played my game well. I got to where I wanted to go and played hard.” Jamie Collins has looked fluid in practice and played great in limited duty against the Saints. He was all over the field and made three tackles before being relieved for the evening. In a recent interview, Collins confided, “I feel pretty good about this system. We have a lot of energy around our defense. We have guys flying around the ball. I’m just looking forward to great things.” Tank Carder missed a tackle that sprang Alvin Kamara for a long gain. Carder’s competitor for the starting spot, Joe Schobert, did more with his opportunities. He sacked Ryan Nassib and recorded two stops. Projected starting safety Ibraheim Campbell suffered a concussion in the first quarter of the preseason contest and is out indefinitely. That means more practice repetitions for Jabrill Peppers, who currently is on the second team. When asked about not being the starter yet despite being drafted in the first round, Peppers nonchalantly replied, “Just taking it as being number two. Still a lot of work to be done and still have a lot of work I need to do, a lot of things I need to improve on.”

K: The battle is far from over but Zane Gonzalez appears to be leading the kicking competition. Neither he nor Cody Parkey attempted a field goal in this week’s preseason game, but Gonzalez had a superior leg on kickoffs. He was already coming off of a week of practice where his leg strength stood out on long kicks; his range might extend past 60 yards.

Returners: If Jabrill Peppers was the leading candidate to handle returns in 2017, the first preseason game did nothing but reinforce Jabrill Peppers’ spot as the leading returner candidate. He had a 27-yard kickoff return and a 13-yard punt return.

OL: Left tackle Joe Thomas was given the night off in the preseason win over New Orleans. In Thomas’ place, Cameron Erving had a rough night. Erving and

Shon Coleman have been competing at right tackle, with Coleman holding the lead so far. Both Erving and Coleman were called for holding and false start penalties against the Saints. Backup tackle Rob Johnson has been even worse, and his roster spot could be in danger. Left guard Joe Bitonio played well with the first team, but backup guard John Greco is not in pre-injury form and has practiced with the second team. The line currently grades out as a top-tier unit.

Browns Depth Chart QB: Brock Osweiler, DeShone Kizer, Cody Kessler, Kevin Hogan RB: Isaiah Crowell (SD), Duke Johnson (3RB/KR), Matt Dayes, Brandon Wilds, Darius Jackson (IR) FB: Dan Vitale WR: Corey Coleman, Kenny Britt, Ricardo Louis, Rashard Higgins, Jordan Payton, Mario Alford, Rannell Hall, James Wright, Jordan Leslie, Josh Boyce, Rasheed Bailey, Josh Gordon (susp) TE: David Njoku, Randall Telfer, Seth Devalve, J.P. Holtz LT: Joe Thomas, Rod Johnson LG: Joel Bitonio, Marcus Martin C: J.C. Tretter RG: Kevin Zeitler, John Greco RT: Shon Coleman, Cameron Erving, Spencer Drango K: Cody Parkey, Zane Gonzalez DT: Danny Shelton, Jamie Meder, Desmond Bryant, Larry Ogunjobi, Caleb Brantley, Xavier Cooper, Trevon Coley, Nile Lawrence-Stample DE: Emmanuel Ogbah, Myles Garrett (inj), Carl Nassib, Nate Orchard, Cam Johnson, Tyrone Holmes MLB: Christian Kirksey (W), Tank Carder, Kenneth Olugbode OLB: Jamie Collins (S), Joe Schobert (W/M), Dominique Alexander, James Burgess CB: Joe Haden, Jamar Taylor, Jason McCourty, Briean Boddy-Calhoun, Trey Caldwell, Marcus Burley, Channing Stribling, Darius Hilary, Howard Wilson (IR) S: Calvin Pryor (FS), Jabrill Peppers (SS/PR/KR), Ibraheim Campbell (SS) (inj), Derrick Kindred (FS), Justin Currie (SS), Ed Reynolds II (inj) Coaches: Head Coach: Hue Jackson, RB Coach: Kirby Wilson, WR Coach: Al Saunders, TE Coach: Greg Seamon, OL Coach: Bob Wylie, SpecTm Coach: Chris Tabor, Def Coord: Gregg Williams, DL Coach: Clyde Simmons, LB Coach: Blake Williams, DB Coach: DeWayne Walker

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Dallas Cowboys

QB: Dak Prescott sat against the Rams, and neither Kellen Moore nor Luke McCown played well enough to justify the #2 spot on the depth chart. Moore, the incumbent, completed 8-of-17 passes for 69 yards (4.1 per attempt) with no touchdowns. McCown, the free agent, was 6-of-13 for 31 yards (2.4 per attempt) in a stunning display of ineptitude. Cooper Rush played well in mop up duties, but that’s of little solace given how poorly the veterans performed. Prescott expects to suit up in the next preseason game versus the Colts and doesn’t believe he’ll be asked to run more often with Ezekiel Elliott suspended.

RB: Six games. The talk of the town, and the league, and the world was the Commissioner’s decision to suspend Ezekiel Elliott for six games in relation to the allegations of domestic abuse against his Elliott’s former girlfriend. Elliott and the NFLPA are appealing the decision, and the appeal will be heard later this month. His teammates are standing by him, for now, but his status is in flux. Veteran Darren McFadden got all the first team snaps against the Rams and flourished; he ran for 28 yards on six carries (4.7 per rush) and caught an 8-yard pass. Alfred Morris looked much worse, although he wasn’t playing with the starter. Morris averaged 2.2 yards per rush and can’t sit on his laurels. Rod Smith (one carry for two yards) and Ronnie Hillman (one carry for zero yards) looked pedestrian against the Rams, and only one of the two will make the 53-man roster.

WR: Dez Bryant didn’t play against the Rams, but he’s had plenty of time in practice to increase his chemistry with Dak Prescott. For example, this week Prescott completed 13-of-15 passes in 7-on-7 drills; six of his 13 completions went to Bryant. Cole Beasley also skipped the Rams game, but is healthy and should see time against the Colts. Terrance Williams played against Los Angeles but failed to catch his lone target. Rookie Ryan Switzer has missed two weeks of practice but will also play against Indianapolis.

TE: Jason Witten is a proven veteran and has enjoyed the quiet preseason someone of his stature deserves. The story of camp has been the maturation of Rico Gathers. The converted basketball player is a game-breaker and is finally figuring out how to marry his natural athleticism with precision route-running. Unfortunately, Gathers suffered a concussion in practice this week and will be in the protocol for the foreseeable future.

Defense: Jaylon Smith will see his first game action in a long time when the Cowboys face off against the Colts later this week. The linebacker has been practicing regularly and looks every bit as dominant as envisioned.

In fact, Smith has been playing middle linebacker in place of the injured (minor) Sean Lee. Rookie Taco Charlton played well against the Rams after a disappointing debut in the Hall of Fame Game. Charlton has three tackles and a sack in limited snaps. "It felt good to finally get one and start down a road to many more, I hope," said Charlton. The Cowboys forced five fumbles against Los Angeles, including a particularly forceful hit by linebacker Anthony Hichens on Rams receiver Robert Woods.

Returners: Rookie Ryan Switzer has plenty of fans in the Cowboys locker room, and you can count Dez Bryant among them. Speaking of the rookie's potential, Bryant didn’t mince words, “He will be a Pro Bowl returner in his rookie year.”

OL: Left tackle Tyron Smith was shut down while he recovers from a sore back. The team has given him time off during training camp for several years in a row; it should not be a concern. Chaz Green (who would normally be the swing tackle, and could factor into the left guard mix) has been out with a shoulder injury. The team gave former Titans right tackle Byron Bell the start at left guard against the Rams. Bell’s penalties and overall poor play may have put Jonathan Cooper back into the lead for that job. At right tackle, La’el Collins has been doing well as a run blocker but was beaten by seventh round rookie Ejuan Price for a sack. No other offensive line returns three All Pros (Smith, Travis Frederick, and Zack Martin) and despite their short term setbacks, the line grades as an elite unit.

Cowboys Depth Chart QB: Dak Prescott, Kellen Moore, Cooper Rush, Luke McCown, Zac Dysert (IR) RB: Ezekiel Elliott (susp), Darren McFadden, Rod Smith (FB), Alfred Morris, Ronnie Hillman FB: Keith Smith WR: Dez Bryant, Terrance Williams, Cole Beasley, Ryan Switzer (KR/PR), Brice Butler, Noah Brown, Brian Brown, Andy Jones, Quincy McDuffie, EZ Nwachukwu, Lance Lenoir, Shaq Evans (susp) TE: Jason Witten, Rico Gathers, Geoff Swaim, James Hanna, Blake Jarwin, Connor Hamlett (IR) LT: Tyron Smith LG: Chaz Green, Jonathan Cooper C: Travis Frederick, Joe Looney RG: Zack Martin, Kadeem Edwards RT: Lael Collins K: Dan Bailey DT: Tyrone Crawford, Cedric Thornton, Maliek Collins, Stephen Paea, Joey Ivie, Jordan Carrell, Richard Ash, Woody Barron DE: DeMarcus Lawrence, Taco Charlton, Benson Mayowa, David Irving (susp), Charles Tapper, Damontre Moore (susp), Randy Gregory (susp), Zach

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Wood, Lenny Jones MLB: Anthony Hitchens, Mark Nzeocha, Jaylon Smith, Jeremiah George OLB: Sean Lee (W), Kyle Wilber (S), Damien Wilson (W), Justin Durant CB: Orlando Scandrick, Nolan Carroll, Chidobe Awuzie, Jourdan Lewis, Marquez White, Anthony Brown, Leon McFadden, Duke Thomas, Sammy Seamster S: Byron Jones (FS), Jeff Heath (SS), Kavon Frazier (SS), Robert Blanton, Jameill Showers, Xavier Woods Coaches: Head Coach: Jason Garrett, Off Coord: Scott Linehan, QB Coach: Wade Wilson, RB Coach: Gary Brown, WR Coach: Derek Dooley, TE Coach: Mike Pope, OL Coach: Frank Pollack, SpecTm Coach: Richard Bisaccia, Def Coord: Rod Marinelli, DL Coach: Leon Lett, DL Coach: Ben Bloom, LB Coach: Matt Eberflus, DB Coach: Greg Jackson, DB Coach: Joe Baker

Denver Broncos

QB: There’s still no clarity in the ongoing starting quarterback battle between Trevor Siemian and Paxton Lynch. Siemian was given the starting nod in Thursday’s preseason game against the Chicago Bears, while Lynch is slated to start next week. Neither player did anything of note in the Bears game, so there wasn’t much to glean on the separation front. In practices, it's been a mixed bag. Both Siemian and Lynch have shown promise, but also moments of frustration. "We're all learning the offense still,” noted head coach Vance Joseph. “After next week we can talk about if there's separation between two guys." The buzz in Broncos circles points to Siemian having a leg up. Undrafted free agent Kyle Sloter looked impressive in garbage time versus the Bears, but Joseph made it crystal clear that he’s not in the starting quarterback conversation. “No,” he said. “We’ve got Trevor (Siemian), and we’ve got Paxton (Lynch), who we’re satisfied with.”

RB: C.J. Anderson had a good camp, and looked fine in his first game action since tearing his meniscus last year. The unsettled quarterback situation argues for a commitment to the ground game, and all signs point to Anderson being up to the task. Devontae Booker remains out with a fractured wrist but should be ready to go by Week One or Two. Jamaal Charles did not suit up against the Bears, and it’s unclear when he’ll make his preseason debut. He’s been gradually increasing his workload in camp, but there are whispers that the club wants to see him in game action before making a final decision on his roster spot. Sixth-round draft pick DeAngelo Henderson continues to turn heads, and he added a solid performance in the first preseason game

to his resume. “That was a big-time run on Thursday night,” Joseph said. “That’s what we’ve seen from that guy from the first day he’s been at camp, so I’m not surprised he played so well."

WR: Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders remain entrenched atop the depth chart, but questions abound with the rest of the unit. Bennie Fowler is currently penciled in as the #3, but nothing is set in stone. Cody Latimer shined against the Bears, and he’s making his case for the third spot. Rookie Carlos Henderson underwent thumb surgery, and there’s no timetable for his return. Rookie Isaiah McKenzie turned heads against the Bears by hauling in a 47-yard touchdown. Nonetheless, he feels there’s plenty of room for improvement. "I could do better,” he said. “Next game is going to be a better game."

TE: Virgil Green sits atop the initial depth chart. It is a contract year for Green, so it’ll be interesting to see how that translates on the field in 2017. He also has experience in Mike McCoy’s offense, so his spot atop the depth chart appears to be safe. A crowded group is jockeying for position behind Green. Jeff Heuerman is penciled in at TE2, but the team is waiting for him to take a big leap. A.J. Derby has been a bright spot at camp and could leap over Heuerman. Coach Joseph doesn’t put much gospel in the depth chart. “Tight-end wise, they’re all starters,” he said. The Broncos are also high on rookie Jake Butt, but he’s slated to begin the season on the PUP list.

Defense: While we shouldn’t read too much into preseason games, the defense appears set to pick up where it left off last season. The unit looked dominant in the early going against the Bears, but the starters didn’t play all that long. “That’s a great start,” Joseph said. “We had two turnovers on the first three drives. I was impressed with those guys.” The head coach still sees room for improvement after taking a look at the game film. “Defensively, getting off to a fast start - the first three drives were three-and-outs. Two out of three drives were turnovers,” noted Joseph. “But the run defense wasn’t good enough at all, even versus 11-personnel or sub-personnel groups it wasn’t good enough for us.”

K: Brandon McManus made a 70-yard kick in warmups, a week after making a 73-yard kick in practice. He might force the Broncos to consider extending “field goal range,” especially with the difficulties the offense might have scoring touchdowns and converting third-and-longs with what is likely to be mediocre quarterback play.

Returners: Last week, the Broncos anointed Isaiah McKenzie their starting punt returner for Week One. Barring an injury, the rookie is a virtual lock to lead the team in punt returns this season.

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OL: The line is undergoing changes. New right guard Ronald Leary was solid in the preseason opener, but new right tackle Menelik Watson gave up a sack of quarterback Trevor Simian on the team’s first offensive snap of the night. First round rookie Garett Bolles played angry (offsetting personal foul penalties), and he appears to have won the job over Donald Stephenson and Ty Sambrailo. Connor McGovern got the start at center while the coaches gave Matt Paradis the night off. Allen Barbre got starter’s reps at left guard in practice, and he could displace Max Garcia. Overall the Broncos’ line grades out as a mid-tier unit. They have a ton of good young players, but they need to stabilize the starting lineup and develop chemistry.

Broncos Depth Chart QB: Trevor Siemian, Paxton Lynch, Kyle Sloter, Chad Kelly RB: C.J. Anderson, Devontae Booker (inj), Jamaal Charles, De′Angelo Henderson, Juwan Thompson, Stevan Ridley, Bernard Pierce FB: Andy Janovich WR: Demaryius Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders, Bennie Fowler, Isaiah McKenzie (KR/PR), Cody Latimer, Carlos Henderson, Jordan Taylor, Kalif Raymond, Marlon Brown TE: A.J. Derby, Virgil Green, Jeff Heuerman, Jake Butt (inj), Austin Traylor, Steve Scheu LT: Garett Bolles, Ty Sambrailo LG: Allen Barbre, Max Garcia C: Matt Paradis, Connor McGovern RG: Ronald Leary, Michael Schofield RT: Menelik Watson, Donald Stephenson K: Brandon McManus NT: Domata Peko, Kyle Peko DE: Derek Wolfe (inj), Jared Crick, Zach Kerr, DeMarcus Walker, Kasim Edebali, Adam Gotsis ILB: Brandon Marshall, Todd Davis, Corey Nelson, Quentin Gause, Zaire Anderson OLB: Von Miller, Shane Ray (inj), Shaquil Barrett (inj), Vontarrius Dora, Ken Ekanem CB: Aqib Talib, Chris Harris Jr., Bradley Roby, Brendan Langley, Lorenzo Doss, Taurean Nixon S: T.J. Ward (SS), Darian Stewart (FS), Will Parks (SS), Justin Simmons (FS), Dymonte Thomas, Jamal Carter Coaches: Head Coach: Vance Joseph, Off Coord: Mike McCoy, QB Coach: Bill Musgrave, RB Coach: Eric Studesville, WR Coach: Tyke Tolbert, TE Coach: Geep Chryst, OL Coach: Jeff Davidson, SpecTm Coach: Brock Olivo, Def Coord: Joe Woods, DL Coach: Bill Kollar, LB Coach: Fred Pagac, LB Coach: Reggie Herring, DB Coach: Marcus Robertson

Detroit Lions

QB: The Lions practiced with the Indianapolis Colts during the week and then faced them in their first preseason game on Sunday afternoon. Starting quarterback Matthew Stafford survived a scare in practice and looked sharp during the two practices, and he played one series versus the Colts. He threw an interception, but the ball was well placed and bounced off of receiver Marvin Jones’ shoulder pads. Backup Jake Rudock looks like he’s firmly entrenched as the #2. He displayed good accuracy and even moved the chains with his feet. Rudock looks to have a strong grasp of the offense and was able to throw two touchdown passes in the game. Rudock finished 13-of-21 for 142 yards and two scores. Rookie quarterback Brad Kaaya is still learning the offense and has been up and down in recent weeks, but he played well against the Colts. Kaaya has promise, but he’s looking like quarterback #3 for the Lions. He was 8-of-11 for 71 yards, and he threw a touchdown pass in the game.

RB: Ameer Abdullah continues to look good in camp. He got the start in the game and saw one series before he went to the sidelines for the day. Abdullah is extremely explosive, and he showed that during his short stint. Abdullah caught a pass from Stafford and bounced it outside, showing great burst to grab the corner and gain 14 yards before going out of bounds. He looks very different from an athletic perspective than the other backs in Detroit, and if he can stay healthy, good things are coming. Theo Riddick is recovering from offseason wrist surgery and has been practicing with limitations. The Lions know what they have with Riddick, and he should be ready for the season, so there is no need to rush him. Interestingly, running back Zach Zenner appears slated to be the “hammer” in the rotation. Zenner runs with excellent vision and patience and is efficient with the ball in his hands; he’s received first-team goal-line reps in camp. Zenner carried the ball six times for 26 yards and caught a pass that went for three yards in the game. Dwayne Washington is an incredibly athletic football player, and he’s working hard to improve as a runner and stay within the structure of the offense. Working with the third unit, Washington had six carries for 34 yards and caught one pass for five yards.

WR: Starters Golden Tate and Marvin Jones each has a unique role in the offense. Jones hit the Colts down the field for an 80-yard score during joint practices, and his ability to stretch the field is critical. Rookie Kenny Golladay has been a camp darling. He’s using his size to his advantage and has continually made difficult catches, and that continued when he torched the Colts for two touchdowns. Golladay has decent speed but is certainly not a burner. He has great size, so he’ll need to use his body as a way to separate from defenders.

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That’s what he did against the Colts as both touchdowns were caught while fighting for position in the end zone. Golladay has intriguing upside and is certainly a red zone weapon for a relatively potent offense. He was targeted four times and caught three passes for 53 yards in the game. There is a stiff competition brewing for the remaining spots, and it’s pretty clear the Lions are going to cut talented players when they trim their roster. T.J. Jones (one catch for 22 yards), Jace Billingsley (two catches for 30 yards) and Jared Abbrederis (two catches for 18 yards) are among those battling for the final roster spots.

TE: Starter Eric Ebron is nearing a return. It is evident that the Lions envision a significant role for the athletic tight end. Backup Darren Fells has had a good camp, and he will make the roster because of his versatility. Rookie Michael Roberts struggled early in camp with drops and fumbles, but he bounced back with a solid week of practice and is doing a better job with ball security during practice. However, those issues popped up in a big way during the preseason game versus the Colts as Roberts dropped a pass and realistically fumbled twice. The first fumble was ruled an incomplete pass and the second fumble happened as he was going out of bounds.

Defense: The Lions are looking to get more pressure on opposing quarterbacks while also being better in certain areas of coverage than they were last year. Personnel executives addressed the deficiencies in free agent and the draft; most notably rookie “Mike” linebacker Jarrad Davis. The defense looked good against a Colts offense that was missing some critical pieces, but they suffered a devastating blow as starting defensive end Kerry Hyder suffered a torn Achilles and is done for the season. The defensive interior was stout against the Colts.

Returners: The team took great pains to stress how unofficial the first depth chart was, pointing out that it was compiled by the communications staff and not the coaches. Golden Tate and Dwayne Washington are listed as the top punt- and kick returners, respectively. Neither is likely to start the year in those roles. T.J. Jones and Jamal Agnew are the favorites.

OL: In the preseason win over the Indianapolis Colts, the new tackles were solid. Right tackle Rick Wagner was excellent while left tackle Greg Robinson only allowed a single hurry in the first half. His rare physical gifts bail him out of bad situations. When Robinson left the game, undrafted Storm Norton got the call at left tackle, not Cyrus Kouandijo. Right guard T.J. Lang is still recovering from offseason hip surgery and has not been practicing. Joe Dahl got the start but struggled in his place. Dahl is ahead of former first round

guard Laken Tomlinson, who has been running with the third team. Tomlinson and Kouandijo’s roster spots appear to be in jeopardy. The Lions’ offensive line grades out as a low-tier option, but they have potential to rise in the rankings once the lineup settles.

Lions Depth Chart QB: Matthew Stafford, Jake Rudock, Brad Kaaya RB: Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick (3RB), Zach Zenner (SD), Matt Asiata, Dwayne Washington, Mike James (IR) WR: Golden Tate, Marvin Jones, Kenny Golladay, Jared Abbrederis, T.J. Jones, Keshawn Martin (KR), Jace Billingsley, Michael Rector, Ryan Spadola, Andrew Turzilli TE: Eric Ebron, Darren Fells, Michael Roberts, Cole Wick, Khari Lee, Kennard Backman, Tim Wright LT: Greg Robinson, Cyrus Kouandijo, Storm Norton, Taylor Decker (PUP), Corey Robinson (PUP) LG: Graham Glascow, Laken Tomlinson C: Travis Swanson RG: T.J. Lang, Joe Dahl RT: Rick Wagner, Cornelius Lucas K: Matt Prater DT: Haloti Ngata, A′Shawn Robinson, Akeem Spence, Jordan Hill, Khyri Thornton (susp) DE: Ezekiel Ansah, Armonty Bryant, Cornelius Washington, Anthony Zettel, Jeremiah Ledbetter, Pat O′Conner, Alex Barnett, Kerry Hyder (inj) MLB: Jarrad Davis, Nick Bellore OLB: Tahir Whitehead (W), Paul Worrilow (W), Antwione Williams (S), Jalen Reeves-Maybin (W), Thurston Armbrister, Steve Longa, Brandon Copeland (IR) CB: Darius Slay, Nevin Lawson, Quandre Diggs, D.J. Hayden, Teez Tabor, Johnson Bademosi, Jamal Agnew, Adairius Barnes, Crezdon Butler, Ian Wells, Charles Washington S: Glover Quin (FS), Miles Killebrew (SS), Tavon Wilson (SS), Don Carey, Alex Carter, Rolan Milligan Coaches: Head Coach: Jim Caldwell, Off Coord: Jim Bob Cooter, QB Coach: Brian Callahan, RB Coach: David Walker, WR Coach: Robert Prince, TE Coach: Al Golden, OL Coach: Ron Prince, SpecTm Coach: Joe Marciano, Def Coord: Teryl Austin, DL Coach: Kris Kocurek, LB Coach: Bill Sheridan, DB Coach: Alan Williams, DB Coach: Tony Oden

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Green Bay Packers

QB: Aaron Rodgers has been putting in serious camp work, but he’s unlikely to play much in the preseason. Rodgers played just two exhibition drives (26 snaps) last year, and the team would like to feature Brett Hundley as much as possible to assess and, hopefully, boost his trade value. Hundley played solidly Thursday night despite being plagued by drops, and he’s drawn camp praise of late while running as the first-team quarterback. Hundley made a beautiful teardrop pass over tight coverage for a 20-yard touchdown to Jeff Janis on Thursday night.

RB: Ty Montgomery played the first three possessions Thursday night, but remains in a serious battle with rookie Jamaal Williams who continues to surge and challenge for snaps. Williams stoned a hard-blitzing Morgan Burnett in a pickup drill last week, and his consistency in pass protection is in contrast to Montgomery’s struggles. At a minimum, Williams is locking down the #2 role. Fellow rookie Aaron Jones, who drew three touches in the preseason opener, continues to run exclusively with the third and fourth teams.

WR: Davante Adams and Randall Cobb both played sparingly Thursday night (10 snaps each) as the focus was on evaluating the backup talent. The competition for the final three or four roster spots is white-hot. Jeff Janis is probably no longer a fantasy commodity, but he remains a core returner and cover man on kicks; he seems likely to stick. Geronimo Allison boasts the strongest receiving resume, but not by much, and is facing a suspension to open the year. Trevor Davis is pushing to make the team as a punt returner, and his 68-yard touchdown against the Eagles went a long way toward securing a roster spot. He’s also making plays on offense. Rookie DeAngelo Yancey was the star against Philadelphia, turning 31 snaps into four targets and 67 yards. His 46-yard catch from reserve quarterback Taysom Hill was a thing of beauty. Seventh-rounder Malachi Dupre has impressed in camp but was frighteningly hospitalized Thursday night after a hard hit and neck injury. He’s fine but may wind up falling behind undrafted rookie Michael Clark, an ex-basketballer who towers at 6’6” and 217 pounds. Clark has repeatedly turned heads with dazzling, high-point catches during camp and caught a touchdown in the opener. He’s exceptionally raw, however, and looks ticketed for the practice squad. At this point, expect Janis, Allison, Davis, and Yancey to make the roster.

TE: Martellus Bennett, Lance Kendricks, and Richard Rodgers have all been targeted heavily in red-zone drills. They’ve had success, too, winning one-on-one battles left and right. It’s worth noting that much of that

success has come with backup quarterback Brett Hundley under center and that Aaron Rodgers hasn’t exactly favored his tight ends since the days of Bubba Franks. Its worth noting Rodgers’ recent praise of Bennett’s and Kendrick’s integrations into the offense, which is a nice vote of confidence.

Defense: The hot topic on defense is coordinator Dom Capers’ expected expansion of the “nitro” package. Other teams, most notably Arizona (Deone Bucannon) and the Rams (Mark Barron), are having success with athletic, safety/linebacker hybrids, and the Packers are looking to integrate this more into their system. Morgan Burnett is already a stud in run support, and the team added second-rounder Josh Jones, a multifaceted safety who’s drawn raves thus far, in the draft. Tackle and sack numbers could swell noticeably for their defensive backs in 2017. Another second-round rookie, cornerback Kevin King, has lined up as a starter – but it hasn’t gone nearly as well. He’s been dominated in one-on-one drills by virtually every wideout he’s faced. With such a deep, diverse group of cornerbacks on the roster, King may wind up ticketed for dime and deep-zone duties as a rookie. Davon House still looks like a starter but could lose some ground after this week’s hamstring injury. It doesn’t appear serious, but it keeps the depth chart crowded and muddied. The team released defensive lineman Letroy Guion last week, an expected move. Guion is facing a four-game suspension to open the season and was arrested for DUI this summer, making a second suspension likely.

K: The team re-signed long snapper Brett Goode after the new rookie snapper/holder combination was bad at Family Night before the preseason opener, especially snapper Derek Hart. Hart wasn’t released, but Goode is expected to win the job if his performance doesn’t drop off from last season. Hart and the placekicking game did rebound in the preseason opener.

Returners: Randall Cobb has lobbied publicly to regain the punt return job, but Trevor Davis, praised for his offseason work, might have just rendered those pleas moot. In the first preseason game, Davis fielded two punts. He returned the first 68 yards for a touchdown and the second for another 26 yards.

OL: In the preseason win against Philadelphia Eagles, the line played well. New addition Jahri Evans looked solid at right guard and should be a capable starter, as long as he is not asked to work in open space. Right tackle Bryan Bulaga had a rough moment with a false start penalty on 4th and one, but he’s a proven commodity. The Packers punted the ball, and the first team didn’t see further action. The second team had a rough performance as backup tackles (Jason Spriggs and Kyle Murphy) each gave up sacks. Utility

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backup Don Barclay was carted from the game with an ankle injury. The coaches did not provide a timeline for Barclay’s return, but they did say the injury was not as severe as it first appeared. Earlier in the week, left guard Lane Taylor received praise from positional coach James Campen. The Packers’ line ranks in the mid- to lower-tier of units.

Packers Depth Chart QB: Aaron Rodgers, Brett Hundley, Joe Callahan, Taysom Hill RB: Ty Montgomery, Jamaal Williams, Aaron Jones, Devante Mays, Kalif Phillips, William Stanback FB: Aaron Ripkowski, Joe Kerridge WR: Jordy Nelson, Davante Adams, Randall Cobb, Geronimo Allison, Trevor Davis (KR/PR), Jeff Janis, DeAngelo Yancey, Malachi Dupre (inj), Max McCaffrey, Michael Clark, Herb Waters TE: Martellus Bennett, Lance Kendricks, Richard Rodgers, Beau Sandland LT: David Bakhtiari, Jason Spriggs LG: Lane Taylor C: Corey Linsley, Kofi Amichia RG: Jahri Evans, Don Barklay RT: Bryan Bulaga, Kyle Murphy K: Mason Crosby NT: Montravius Adams (inj), Brian Price DE: Mike Daniels, Ricky Jean-Francois, Kenny Clark, Dean Lowry, Christian Ringo ILB: Jake Ryan, Blake Martinez, Joe Thomas, Jordan Tripp, Derrick Matthews OLB: Clay Matthews, Nick Perry, Jayrone Elliott, Vince Biegel, Kyler Fackrell, Reggie Gilbert CB: Davon House, Kevin King, Damarious Randall (PR), Quinten Rollins, LaDarius Gunter, Demetri Goodson, Josh Hawkins S: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (FS), Morgan Burnett (SS), Josh Jones, Marwin Evans, Kentrell Brice, Jermaine Whitehead Coaches: Head Coach: Mike McCarthy, Off Coord: Edgar Bennett, QB Coach: Alex VanPelt, RB Coach: Ben Sirmans, WR Coach: Luke Getsy, TE Coach: Brian Angelichio, OL Coach: James Campen, SpecTm Coach: Ron Zook, Def Coord: Dom Capers, DL Coach: Mike Trgovac, LB Coach: Winston Moss, DB Coach: Joe Whitt, DB Coach: Darren Perry

Houston Texans

QB: Tom Savage did what he needed to do in the preseason opener and remains on track to open the season as the starter. After a couple of ugly three-and-outs to start the game, Savage led an impressive third drive and exited the game on a high note. On the long

drive, he completed all seven of his passes and was able to overcome several holding. Deshaun Watson impressed in his preseason debut. He finished 15-of-25 for 179 yards and added three carries for 24 yards and a rushing touchdown. The rookie looked comfortable under center and ran the offense with poise and confidence. However, he wasn’t perfect. Watson badly misfired on a few downfield passes. He also left the pocket prematurely if his first read wasn’t open. He improved as the game went on and put together an impressive final drive capped by a 15-yard touchdown run. "He seems to get better at something every day,” said head coach Bill O’Brien. “He’s got a good attitude, a good demeanor. He's doing a really good job." O'Brien has also praised Watson's consistency during training camp. "I really have seen the same guy every single day since he's been here. He's got a great demeanor.” Savage hasn’t done anything to lose the starting job, but he’ll need to maintain a high level of play to hold onto the spot as the season wears on.

RB: The team may be looking at a running back committee this season, which would call Lamar Miller’s fantasy value into question. The Texans preseason announcers indicated that Houston coaches would like to limit Miller to 10-12 touches per game so that he doesn’t get beaten up and so that he can retain his explosiveness. Rookie D’Onta Foreman was outstanding in his NFL debut. He showed top-notch elusiveness and flashed the 4.45-speed that made him such an intriguing draft prospect. Foreman rushed for 76 yards on nine carries against the Carolina Panthers backups. "Foreman is a good, young back," said O'Brien. "He's got good size. He did some good things the other night. He's just got to keep coming. He's got to keep improving every day.” Alfred Blue could also be a factor in the backfield rotation. He was excellent against Carolina and keyed a long touchdown drive when he replaced Lamar Miller for the entire third series with the starters. Blue has been decisive as a runner and shown explosiveness this preseason. Tyler Ervin is still listed as a running back but has transitioned to receiver.

WR: The preseason opener shed light on the pecking order behind DeAndre Hopkins. Braxton Miller played the first 11 snaps with the first team offense and looks to open the season as a starter. Miller did limp off the field with minor “muscle soreness,” but is worth keeping an eye on as it kept him out of the first practice after the preseason opener. Jaelen Strong is the #3 receiver and played three snaps with the starters. He came in as an outside receiver when the team went to three wide sets and pushed Miller into the slot. Houston signed Bruce Ellington after a camp tryout. Ellington has struggled with injuries throughout his career but is healthy now and worth watching as a deep dynasty sleeper.

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TE: The offense should continue favoring the tight ends, as Houston uses a base 2-TE formation on the majority of snaps. C.J. Fiedorowicz and Ryan Griffin will be on the field at the same time. Griffin has been heavily involved in the passing game throughout camp, which helps the Texans but hurts Fiedorowicz’s fantasy upside.

Defense: J.J. Watt started the preseason opener and looked healthy. Adding Watt back into a defense that finished first in the league without him is an imposing proposition for the rest of the AFC South. Rookie inside linebacker Zack Cunningham had an encouraging preseason debut, displaying both speed and an ability to diagnose plays. Cunningham is expected to be the top backup behind veterans Brian Cushing and Bernardrick McKinney. With McKinney out, Cunningham got the start and led the team with seven tackles. "For a first NFL outing, I thought Zach did some nice things," O'Brien said. "I thought he played physical. Couple things we can improve on, just like everybody else. I was pleased with how Zach played."

K: Ka’imi Fairbairn badly missed a 55-yard field goal and a chance to give the Texans further reason to consider him over Nick Novak. Fairbairn also missed two “game-winning” field goals in the following practice. Novak looks safe as the Texans kicker coming off of a season that included 35 field goals, tied for second in the league. He’s draftable in standard leagues.

Returners: With an injury to Will Fuller sidelining the speedy receiver, Tyler Ervin’s path to retain the full-time returner role is reasonably clear. The recent signing of former 49ers returner Bruce Ellington might serve as a speed bump, but Ervin's should still be considered the front-runner.

OL: The first string offensive line missed starting left tackle Duane Brown in the preseason loss to the Carolina Panthers. Brown is holding out over a contract dispute. Quarterback Tom Savage faced heavy pressure by the Panthers’ starting defense. Left guard Xavier S’ua-Filo gave up a sack to Kawann Short in the first series. Chris Clark got the start at left tackle and did not hold up in pass protection. Kendall Lamm got the start at right tackle and later saw reps on the left side when Breno Giacomini entered the contest. Giacomini was called for a holding penalty, and his roster spot could be in danger. The unit was better in run blocking than in pass protection, and starting center Nick Martin had some great blocks. Overall the Texans’ offensive line is a mid-tier unit with Duane Brown and a low tier unit without him.

Texans Depth Chart

QB: Tom Savage, Deshaun Watson, Brandon Weeden RB: Lamar Miller, Alfred Blue, D′Onta Foreman, Tyler

Ervin (KR/PR), Akeem Hunt, Dare Ogunbowale FB: Jay Prosch WR: DeAndre Hopkins, Will Fuller (inj), Braxton Miller, Jaelen Strong, Wendall Williams, Dres Anderson, Shaq Hill, Justin Hardee, Deante′ Gray, Devin Street, Bruce Ellington, Chris Thompson, Riley McCarron TE: C.J. Fiedorowicz, Ryan Griffin, Stephen Anderson, RaShaun Allen, Evan Baylis, Zach Conque (IR) LT: Kendall Lamm, Duane Brown LG: Xavier Sua-Filo, David Quessenberry C: Nick Martin, Greg Mancz, Kyle Fuller RG: Jeff Allen RT: Chris Clark, Julien Davenport, Derek Newton (PUP) K: Nick Novak, Ka′imi Fairbairn NT: D.J. Reader, Carlos Watkins, Eli Ankou DE: J.J. Watt, Jadeveon Clowney (OLB), Christian Covington, Joel Heath, Ufomba Kamalu, Brandon Dunn ILB: Benardrick McKinney, Brian Cushing, Zach Cunningham, Sio Moore, Brian Peters, Eric Lee OLB: Whitney Mercilus (S), Brennan Scarlett, Tony Washington, Dylan Cole, Joe Mathis, Gerald Rivers, Shakeel Rashad CB: Johnathan Joseph, Kevin Johnson, Kareem Jackson, Denzel Rice, Robert Nelson S: Eddie Pleasant (SS), Corey Moore (FS), Andre Hal (FS), KJ Dillon, Treston Decoud, Kurtis Drummond, Lonnie Ballentine, Marcus Gilchrist Coaches: Head Coach: Bill OBrien, QB Coach: Sean Ryan, RB Coach: Charles London, WR Coach: John Perry, TE Coach: Tim Kelly, OL Coach: Mike Devlin, SpecTm Coach: Larry Izzo, Def Coord: Mike Vrabel, DL Coach: Anthony Weaver, LB Coach: Bobby King, DB Coach: John Butler

Indianapolis Colts

QB: Early in the week, head coach Chuck Pagano refused to provide a timeline for franchise quarterback Andrew Luck’s return. “We are where we are with that,” Pagano told reporters. “There’s no timeline. When they say he’s healthy and ready to go, we’ll get him out there. He’s played a lot of football.” We got updates on Luck from both General Manager Chris Ballard and owner Jim Irsay on Sunday. “He’s doing really well,” Ballard said. “His strength levels are probably better than they were at any point last season.” Irsay didn’t say unequivocally that Luck will play in the Sept. 10 opener against the Los Angeles Rams but shared: "I would say his progression could not be better." Irsay added Luck is throwing the football again and could play the opener, but he could “hypothetically” miss one or two games. It would be

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welcome news if Luck avoids the PUP list. Second-stringer Scott Tolzien worked with the starters against Detroit. The Colts offense totaled only 27 yards in Tolzien’s three series. There appears to have been a change on the depth chart at third-string quarterback. Phillip Walker, an undrafted free agent from Temple, began taking meaningful practice reps from Stephen Morris during the week, and it was Walker who came in behind Tolzien to go 9-of-20 for 84 yards. “Scott’s had his moments,” Ballard said. “He’s been a little inconsistent, but he’s got to continue to get reps and get better and get the rhythm in the offense. Walker, we think he’s got a lot of talent. He’s a young player and we’re going to continue to work to develop and let him grow.”

RB: Frank Gore sat out the preseason opener, as he nurses a minor ankle injury, but he was back at an intense practice Tuesday which indicates the Colts are just managing the 34-year old’s preseason reps. As expected, Robert Turbin worked with the starters against the Lions. Turbin failed to impress, managing just six yards on five carries. Recently signed Troymaine Pope was third in line for carries in the absence of Marlon Mack, who is dealing with a shoulder injury and has missed three straight practices. Pope made his case for a roster spot with a 7-31-1 rushing line and a 25-yard reception. He also had a 54-yard play erased by a penalty. The team signed former Lion George Winn on Wednesday as an extra camp body.

WR: Donte Moncrief looks to be over last week’s sprained AC joint. He returned to practice Wednesday but didn’t show up in the box score against Detroit. Moncrief and T.Y. Hilton are atop the depth chart, but the battle for the Colts third wide receiver job remains wide open. Phillip Dorsett missed the last three practices along with Sunday’s preseason game, as he deals with the same hamstring injury that bothered him during June minicamp. It’s not helping Dorsett’s chances at overtaking Chester Rogers, who came into the week as the frontrunner for the job. Rogers caught one-of-three targets for four yards against Detroit. The other participant in the battle for number three duties, Kamar Aiken, wasn’t any better in the preseason opener, failing to catch any of his three targets.

TE: There’s nothing much to report on starting tight end, Jack Doyle. He played only 11 snaps with the starting unit on Sunday, drawing two targets on the opening drive from Scott Tolzien. Doyle caught one pass for four yards. Colts.com wondered on Monday whether Erik Swoope could emerge as a Rob Gronkowski-type playmaker. Offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski weighed in on Swoope’s progress. “You hope that you can get guys and develop them, and eventually they grow up to be able to take those spots and be able to succeed and be productive in those spots,” Chudzinski

said. “It’s a huge opportunity, and I plan to run right through that and do everything I can,” Swoope said. Its worth noting Swoope wasn’t seen at practice all week and missed Sunday’s preseason game with a knee injury. Swoope opted for arthroscopic surgery, leaving him week-to-week.

Defense: The lone highlight on either side of the ball for the Colts was a deflection of a Matthew Stafford pass by stud cornerback Vontae Davis, which resulted in an interception by linebacker John Simon. Indianapolis is hoping Davis can bounce back following an injury plagued season. Free safety Malik Hooker, the team’s first round pick in this year’s draft, tied for third on the team with four tackles -- a skill Hooker says he worked on during the offseason. It was a little surprising Nate Hairston, who was selected in the fifth round, started ahead of second-round pick Quincy Wilson at cornerback. Wilson had a bad angle and gave up a 23-yard touchdown reception along the sideline to Lions receiver Kenny Golladay. After the game, Wilson said he “definitely got better” after taking a ton of reps.

Returners: Quan Bray appears to have the inside track on Chester Rogers for the return specialist job, listing him atop the depth chart for both punts and kickoffs. Bray was the initial return specialist last year, with Rogers taking over after Bray was lost to injury.

OL: Starting center Ryan Kelly injured his foot during practice last week and was not able to play in the preseason loss to the Detroit Lions. The injury was first thought to be severe, but coaches alter indicated Kelly should return in a week or two. The line was thin at interior before Kelly’s injury as Brian Schwenke has been on PUP all preseason. The team brought Jeremy Zuttah in for a workout and could sign the veteran as both center and guard insurance. Right tackle Joe Haeg also missed the game against the Lions and his replacement backup right tackle Le’Raven Clark was beaten badly in run blocking. Clark has size but is still technically raw. Haeg should return to action shortly. Overall, the Colts have a mid-tier line, assuming Kelly and Haeg are healthy.

Colts Depth Chart QB: Andrew Luck (inj), Scott Tolzien, Stephen Morris RB: Frank Gore, Robert Turbin (FB), Marlon Mack, Josh Ferguson, Troymaine Pope, George Winn, Dalton Crossan, Christine Michael (IR) WR: T.Y. Hilton, Donte Moncrief, Chester Rogers, Phillip Dorsett, Kamar Aiken, Quan Bray, Bug Howard, Tevaun Smith, Marcus Leak, Al-Damion Riles TE: Jack Doyle, Erik Swoope, Darrell Daniels, Brandon Williams, Henry Krieger-Coble, Mo Alie-Cox LT: Anthony Castonzo LG: Jack Mewhort

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C: Ryan Kelly, Brian Schwenke (PUP), Austin Blythe RG: Denzelle Good, Zach Banner RT: Joe Haeg, LeRaven Clark K: Adam Vinatieri, Devon Bell NT: Johnathan Hankins, Al Woods, Grover Stewart, David Parry, T.Y. McGill DE: Henry Anderson, Hassan Ridgeway, Margus Hunt, Kristjan Sokoli, Garrett Sickels, Josh Boyd ILB: Edwin Jackson, Sean Spence (inj), Antonio Morrison, Anthony Walker, Jon Bostic, Luke Rhodes OLB: Jabaal Sheard, John Simon, Akeem Ayers, Tarell Basham, Barkevious Mingo, Deiontrez Mount, LaVar Edwards CB: Vontae Davis, Rashaan Melvin, Quincy Wilson, Christopher Milton, Nate Hairston, Tevin Mitchel, Dante Blackmon S: Darius Butler (SS/CB), Malik Hooker (FS), Mathias Farley (FS), T.J. Green (FS), Andrew Williamson (SS), Tyvis Powell, Lee Hightower, Clayton Geathers (SS)(PUP) Coaches: Head Coach: Chuck Pagano, Off Coord: Rob Chudzinski, QB Coach: Brian Schottenheimer, RB Coach: Jemal Singleton, WR Coach: Sanjay Lal, TE Coach: Jim Hostler, OL Coach: Joe Philbin, SpecTm Coach: Tom McMahon, Def Coord: Ted Monachino, DL Coach: Gary Emanuel, LB Coach: Brad White, LB Coach: Jim Herrman, DB Coach: Greg Williams

Jacksonville Jaguars

QB: Blake Bortles’ interception worries continued as he threw a pair during Sunday’s practice and was given the day off following those picks. Bortles also only completed 3-of-5 passes for 16 yards against the Patriots in the preseason game. The coaching staff insists that they are giving Bortles some rest because of the extent of his workload through the first 18 days of training camp.

RB: Leonard Fournette looked dominant against the Patriots, carrying the ball nine times for 31 yards and a touchdown. Unfortunately, the powerful rookie missed the following two practices with a foot injury, and will reportedly sit out the next preseason game. Head coach Doug Marrone admitted Fournette has been dealing with this injury for some time now. “We’re going to be real cautious with that,” Marrone said. “If it puts anything in jeopardy for a longer deal, because we’ll get him back, then I probably would hold him.” It is unclear what the situation is behind Fournette on the depth chart as both Chris Ivory and T.J. Yeldon are fighting for playing time. Ivory got the “start” against the Patriots, while Yeldon is getting rave reviews for his pass protection. Corey Grant ran for 120 yards and a touchdown on just eight

carries in mop up duty versus the Patriots; he also has a role on kick returns.

WR: Beat writer Mike Kaye called Allen Robinson “the best player on the field,” which should surprise no one. Marqise Lee was overtaking Allen Hurns on the depth chart until he suffered a high ankle sprain running a route in 7-on-7 drills. His injury usually takes four to six weeks to recover. Arrelious Benn is healthy and should make the final 53-man roster because of his special teams play. Rookie Keelan Cole is pushing for a roster spot thanks to an impressive camp and a dynamic 97-yard touchdown from Chad Henne in the preseason opener. The 6’1”, 194-pound Cole went undrafted out of Kentucky Wesleyan, where he compiled 4,582 receiving yards and 59 touchdowns. Rashad Greene and Shane Wynn are battling Cole for the final roster spot.

TE: The tight end position has little fantasy value at the moment. The receivers are going to see a disproportionate target share while the tight ends focus on blocking. For what it’s worth, Mychal Rivera is atop the depth chart followed by veteran Marcedes Lewis and Ben Koyack.

Defense: Jalen Ramsey is back in practice and will be ready for the season opener. “We’re going to be ready for opening day,” Ramsey said. “I can’t talk about day-to-day, but I’ll let you know that we’ll be ready for that. I’ll promise you that.” Defensive end Yannick Ngakoue picked up where he left off last year sacking Jimmy Garoppolo in the preseason opener. Ngakoue had eight sacks as a rookie and is the team’s best bet to record double digit sacks since Bobby McCray did it in 2007.

K: Jason Myers didn’t have the best start to training camp, and he missed two of three field goals in the preseason opener. Both were from 50 yards or more, with a make from 27 yards. He also made four extra points. The team doesn’t have direct competition for Myers on the roster right now, but the continuing trend may make them reconsider that soon, or put Myers on a shorter leash during the season.

Returners: Beat writers are suggesting that Rashad Greene's battle to earn the primary punt returner role is a critical one; if the Jaguars opt to go with rookie DeDe Westbrook, there likely wouldn't be a place for him on the 53-man roster. Luckily for Greene's sake, he's off to a strong start with a 41-yard punt return in the first preseason game.

OL: Left tackle Branden Albert was released last week, making way for first round draft pick Cam Robinson to get the start in the preseason win over the New England Patriots. Robinson did fine in his NFL debut. He was great in run blocking but was vulnerable to the bull rush

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in pass protection. His rookie season will be a learning experience, but the Jaguars should have Robinson manning that left tackle position for years to come. The guard duo of Patrick Omameh and A.J. Cann struggled to sustain their blocks for new tailback Leonard Fournette, but center Brandon Linder played well. The left guard position is a concern, and Earl Watford returning to action is good news for that spot. At right tackle, Jermey Parnell was fighting an injury last week, and Jeremiah Poutasi saw most of the game action. The Jaguars’ offensive line grades out as a lower-tier unit at the moment, but they could improve as the guard positions stabilize.

Jaguars Depth Chart

QB: Blake Bortles, Chad Henne, Brandon Allen RB: Leonard Fournette, T.J. Yeldon, Chris Ivory, Corey Grant (KR), Jonathan Grimes, I′tavius Mathers, Tyler Gaffney, Tim Cook FB: Tommy Bohanon, Marquez Williams WR: Allen Robinson, Marqise Lee (inj), Allen Hurns, Dede Westbrook, Arrelious Benn, Rashad Greene, Shane Wynn, Amba Etta-Tawo, Kenneth Walker, Keelan Cole, Larry Pinkard TE: Mychal Rivera, Marcedes Lewis, Ben Koyack, Neal Sterling, Alex Ellis, Caleb Bluiett LT: Cam Robinson LG: Earl Watford, Patrick Omameh C: Brandon Linder, Luke Bowanko RG: AJ Cann, Tyler Shatley RT: Jermey Parnell, Jeremiah Poutasi K: Jason Myers DT: Malik Jackson, Abry Jones (NT), Michael Bennett, Stefan Charles, Sheldon Day, Tueni Lupeamanu, Kevin Maurice DE: Calais Campbell, Dante Fowler Jr., Yannick Ngakoue, Dawaune Smoot, Chris Smith, Carroll Phillips, Malliciah Goodman, Jonathan Woodard, Hunter Dimick MLB: Paul Posluszny, Audie Cole, Blair Brown OLB: Telvin Smith (W), Myles Jack (S), Hayes Pullard III (W), Lerentee McCray, Josh McNary, Justin Horton, P.J. Davis CB: Jalen Ramsey, A.J. Bouye, Aaron Colvin, Josh Johnson, Jalen Myrick, Brian Dixon, Doran Grant, Jeremy Cutrer, Stanley Jean-Baptiste, Ezra Robinson S: Barry Church (SS), Tashaun Gipson (FS), Peyton Thompson (FS), Tracy Howard (FS), Jarrod Wilson (FS), Charlie Miller, Jarod Harper Coaches: Head Coach: Doug Marrone, Off Coord: Nathaniel Hackett, QB Coach: Scott Milanovich, RB Coach: Tyrone Wheatley, WR Coach: Keenan McCardell, TE Coach: Ron Middleton, OL Coach: Pat Flaherty, SpecTm Coach: Joe DeCamillis, Def Coord: Todd Wash, DL Coach: Marion Hobby, LB Coach: Mark Collins, DB Coach: Perry Fewell

Kansas City Chiefs

QB: If Friday’s preseason game against the 49ers is any indication, the Chiefs intend to stretch the field a bit more in 2017 than they have in year’s past. All of the club’s signal callers attempted a deep ball on their first series, including an impressive connection from Alex Smith to speedster Tyreek Hill. "The opportunity to strike is, I think, a big thing,” head coach Andy Reid said. “We can do better than we did last year." Alex Smith remains entrenched as the starter, and he’s looked impressive in camp. Rookie Patrick Mahomes impressed in his preseason debut, and he’s been rewarded by leapfrogging Tyler Bray for the time being. “We’re going to give Patrick a chance to work with the twos,” noted Reid, “like Tyler has had here in the last couple of weeks.” It’s unclear if that’s a permanent move, but Mahomes has been impressive in camp. Starting the season as the backup to Smith seems to be well within his reach.

RB: Despite all the buzz surrounding Kareem Hunt, Spencer Ware remains atop the depth chart. Ware received all of the work with the starting unit against the 49ers as well, and he looked impressive in limited action. While Hunt didn’t see much time in the game, he turned heads with his hustle to scoop up a blocked punt on special teams. “I was just looking for the ball to see if it was kicked,” he said. “I saw a couple of guys scrapping for it, so I had to get there and hustle and make a play.” Veteran C.J. Spiller is having a good preseason, and he contributed in multiple phases during the preseason tilt. There are rumblings that Charcandrick West’s roster spot may not be assured.

WR: Tyreek Hill has been one of the brightest stars at camp; exemplified by Alex Smith on the first drive of the preseason opener against the 49ers. Hill and Smith have built impressive chemistry in camp, and signs point to the Chiefs placing more of a focus on the deep ball in 2017. “Every day, I try to make one play—at least once play,” Hill said. “Just one of those wow plays where the whole coaching staff will be watching film, and they’ll be like, ‘Wow! This kid might have something!’ You know what I’m saying?” Chris Conley suffered a knee contusion during Friday’s preseason tilt, but there are no lingering effects, and he’s resumed practicing in impressive fashion. Albert Wilson is penciled in as the #3, but Seantavius Jones and Jehu Chesson have been making noise at camp.

TE: The knee swelling that limited Travis Kelce in the early part of training camp has subsided. Kelce returned to practice on Sunday, and he had nothing but positive news to share afterward. “It feels great. It feels 100

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percent,” he said. “I got a little bit of that swelling out of there and sure enough I was out here going full speed.” Reid was also pleased with what he saw out of Kelce in his return to practice. “I thought he did a nice job. I saw a couple nice grabs. He was able to step in and move around well,” he said. “I didn’t see a drop off in what he did. He got quite a few snaps.” The first depth chart of camp has Demetrius Harris penciled in behind Kelce, but there’s some healthy competition going on to see which tight ends stick around. Veteran Gavin Escobar has done some excellent work in camp, and Ross Travis and Orson Charles are in the mix as well.

Defense: Linebacker Derrick Johnson returned to the field for Friday night’s game, and he’s set to resume his leadership role on the unit once the regular season kicks off. “Playing out here and being back is a blessing,” Johnson said. “Every chance I get to be on the field is getting me better and better, and I’m almost 100 percent, so I can’t ask for anything more.” The Chiefs have prioritized improving the run defense, and it seems to be paying off. Defensive lineman Rakeem Nunez-Roches looked like a beast in Week One of the preseason, and he may have worked himself into the conversation as one of the club’s run stoppers. Defensive lineman Chris Jones returned to practice on Sunday after being activated from the PUP list. “I got tired being in the tent just watching,” he said. “Like a kid at home watching them outside, you can’t play with the older kids.”

K: The Chiefs were without Cairo Santos in the preseason opener, so recent signee Sam Ficken handled the duties. Ficken made a 45-yard field goal and two extra points, so he is earning trust in case Santos’ groin injury isn’t healed by the season opener. There haven’t been any indications that Santos injury is severe enough to cause concern.

Returners: There's little drama in Kansas City surrounding the returner jobs. Tyreek Hill was the 1st-team All Pro returner as a rookie, but his increased role on offense has the team pulling him off of kickoff returns. Unless his offensive usage is far greater than expected, though, he'll continue to make an impact on punt returns while kickoffs are left in the capable hands of De'Anthony Thomas.

OL: With Parker Ehinger on the PUP list all preseason (knee injury), Bryan Witzmann got the start at left guard in the preseason loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Witzmann (and the entire first team line) played well, especially in run blocking. The holes were wide open for starting tailback Spencer Ware. If Ehinger doesn’t get healthy soon, he could find himself out of a job. Right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardiff has been impressive in practice this season and loves pancaking his defensive teammates. Eric Fisher continues to do a

decent job at left tackle, which is good because Jah Reid certainly did not impress at backup tackle. The Chiefs’ offensive line grades out toward the lower end of the middle tier.

Chiefs Depth Chart QB: Alex Smith, Patrick Mahomes, Tyler Bray, Joel Stave RB: Spencer Ware, Kareem Hunt, Charcandrick West, C.J. Spiller, Devine Redding FB: Anthony Sherman, Trey Millard WR: Tyreek Hill (PR), Chris Conley, Albert Wilson, Demarcus Robinson (KR/PR), Jehu Chesson (KR), De′Anthony Thomas (KR), Gehrig Dieter, Seantavius Jones, Corey Washington, Marcus Kemp, Tevin Jones, Kenny Cook, Justin Hunt, Jamari Staples, Tony Stevens TE: Travis Kelce, Demetrius Harris, Gavin Escobar, Ross Travis, Orson Charles LT: Eric Fisher LG: Brian Witzmann, Parker Ehinger (PUP), Mike Person C: Mitch Morse RG: Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, Zach Fulton RT: Mitchell Schwartz, Jah Reid K: Cairo Santos NT: Bennie Logan (inj), Cam Thomas DE: Chris Jones, Allen Bailey, Tanoh Kpassagnon, Jarvis Jenkins, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, T.J. Barnes, Roy Miller , David King ILB: Derrick Johnson, Kevin Pierre-Louis, Ramik Wilson, Terrance Smith, Justin March-Lillard, Josh Mauga OLB: Dee Ford, Justin Houston, Tamba Hali, Frank Zombo, Ukeme Eligwe, Dadi Nicolas CB: Marcus Peters, Phillip Gaines (inj), Steven Nelson, Kenneth Acker, Eric Murray, D.J. White, Terrance Mitchell, Ashton Lampkin, Vernon Harris S: Eric Berry (SS), Ron Parker (FS), Daniel Sorenson (SS), Marqueston Huff, Leon McQuay III Coaches: Head Coach: Andy Reid, Off Coord: Matt Nagy, Off Coord: Brad Childress, RB Coach: Eric Bieniemy, WR Coach: Greg Lewis, TE Coach: Tom Melvin, OL Coach: Andy Heck, SpecTm Coach: Dave Toub, Def Coord: Bob Sutton, DL Coach: Brett Reid, LB Coach: Gary Gibbs, DB Coach: Al Harris, DB Coach: Emmitt Thomas

Los Angeles Chargers

QB: There was some scuttlebutt making the rounds about friction between Philip Rivers and head coach Anthony Lynn, but Rivers insists that it’s much ado about

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nothing. “I do think that that’s – what’s the term that’s gotten popular? – fake news,” Rivers said. Lynn concurred that there’s nothing to see here. “My relationship with Philip is excellent,” he said. “I think someone took some second-hand information and turned it into a story when it should never have been a story.” Rivers spearheaded an efficient scoring drive on the first series of Sunday’s preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks. The first-team offense looked crisp and effective, while those vying for the backup quarterback gig used the time to work out some kinks. Kellen Clemens is penciled in for the QB2 role on the first depth chart out of Chargers camp. Mike Bercovici and Cardale Jones are also vying for attention. All three signal callers saw time against the Seahawks, and we’ll consider this a battle to watch as the preseason progresses.

RB: Melvin Gordon has looked solid in camp, and he’s the unquestioned workhorse in the Chargers backfield. The biggest question in the running back room is who will serve as his primary backup, and the release of the club’s first unofficial depth chart shed light on the situation. Branden Oliver holds down the #2 position, but Lynn insists that the depth chart remains a work in progress. “The depth chart doesn’t mean much right now. It’s something that we’re working through, and we’ll keep working through it as we evaluate the guys,” he said. “There is a lot of competition going on all throughout the roster, so it will keep evolving.” Andre Williams, Kenjon Barner, and Kenneth Farrow are competing for a roster spot. Barring anything unforeseen, consider this Oliver’s job to lose, as he appears recovered from last season’s Achilles tear.

WR: Questions abound about the status of first-round draft pick Mike Williams, who is currently on the PUP list with a herniated disc. Williams resumed running last week at practice, but there’s still a possibility he can open the year on the reserve list. “We just want him to keep progressing and not have any setbacks,” said Lynn. “And we’ll see what happens.” We’ll keep a close eye on the progress of Williams as the summer moves along, but the Chargers have the luxury of having a bounty of other weapons at wide receiver. Keenan Allen continues to have a solid (and healthy) camp, while Travis Benjamin looked explosive in the preseason tilt against the Seahawks. Tyrell Williams is currently listed as WR2, and he sees a fruitful year on the horizon for Chargers pass catchers. He also gave a tip of the cap to Rivers as the engine that makes the Chargers offense run. “All I have to do is turn and put my hands on it. It’s right there,” Williams added. “His accuracy is ridiculous.”

TE: While the trend is pointing towards Hunter Henry being the lead dog, Antonio Gates continues to hold Father Time at bay. Rivers found Gates in the end zone to cap off the scoring drive against the Seahawks. For

Gates, he was quite pleased with how the Chargers offense looked out of the gate. “The anticipation of certain looks, not to mention the offensive line and the balance that we had throughout the first drive, it was great to get off to the right start,” Gates said. Rivers also hooked up with Henry on the opening drive for a 17-yard gain. “It was fun personally going out there and getting to play,” he said. “I got my first catch out of the way (and) it was nice to be out there in a really cool environment.” From a bottom line perspective, the Chargers have plenty of weapons for Rivers to choose from in the passing game. Henry is in line to take the proverbial leap forward in Year Two, while Gates will see his share of targets and likely be a factor in the red zone.

Defense: The first-team defense looked solid against the Seahawks in limited duty, but the wheels came off once the backups entered the game. While we shouldn’t read too much into preseason results, it’s certainly something to keep in mind if the injury bug makes its way through Chargers camp. “We’ll keep growing and learning with (Defensive Coordinator) Gus (Bradley). It’s a process, but we’ll keep growing,” noted linebacker Kyle Emanuel. “We’re happy with how it started, but we’d like to be even better.” Defensive end Melvin Ingram saw similar positive signs, but he notes that there’s more work to be done. “We’re going to get back in that lab and get it right. We don’t want to give up any yards,” he said. “That’s our goal. Give up no yards.” On the injury front, linebacker Denzel Perryman was carted off with an ankle injury. He will miss eight to ten weeks after surgery to repair a torn ligament.

K: Josh Lambo was listed as the starter on the first unofficial depth chart. While Lambo is far from assured of holding off Younghoe Koo, it is a good sign that he nailed a 53-yard field goal in the preseason opener as time expired in the first half and also made his extra point attempt. Koo only had one extra point attempt and converted it.

Returners: Free agent acquisition Kenjon Barner doesn't have a lot of experience returning kickoffs at the professional level, but he's nevertheless managed to work his way to the top of the depth chart at the position, putting receiver Isaiah Burse's roster spot in jeopardy in the process. Travis Benjamin's roster spot is under no such threat, and he remains the leader to field punts.

OL: The Chargers suffered a significant loss when rookie guard Forrest Lamp (a second round pick) tore his ACL; he will miss the season. Kenny Wiggins and third round rookie Dan Feeney will compete to replace Lamp at right guard, with Wiggins the favorite. Left guard Matt Slauson and center Spencer Pulley played well in first team action, and the entire line kept Philip Rivers clean for his single series. Before the preseason loss to

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the Seattle Seahawks, recent free agent arrival and starting left tackle Russell Okung was named a team captain. Okung has played at a high level in camp, and he has earned his teammates respect quickly. The Chargers’ line grades out as a lower tier unit, but as the right guard position stabilizes in the wake of the Lamp injury, there is upside.

Chargers Depth Chart QB: Philip Rivers, Kellen Clemens, Cardale Jones, Eli Jenkins RB: Melvin Gordon, Branden Oliver, Andre Williams, Kenjon Barner, Kenneth Farrow, Austin Ekeler FB: Derek Watt WR: Keenan Allen, Tyrell Williams, Travis Benjamin (PR), Mike Williams (inj), Dontrelle Inman, Javontee Herndon, Geremy Davis, Artavis Scott, Isaiah Burse, Jamaal Jones TE: Hunter Henry, Antonio Gates, Jeff Cumberland, Sean McGrath, Asante Cleveland LT: Russell Okung, Tyreek Burwell, Sam Tevi LG: Matt Slauson, Donavon Clark C: Spencer Pulley, Max Tuerk RG: Kenny Wiggins, Dan Feeney, Forrest Lamp (IR) RT: Joe Barksdale, Chris Hairston K: Josh Lambo DT: Corey Liuget, Brandon Mebane (NT), Ryan Carrethers (NT), Caraun Reid, Damion Square, Tenny Palepoi (susp), Kaleb Eulls DE: Joey Bosa, Melvin Ingram, Jeremiah Attaochu (inj), Chris Landrum, Roy Philon, Chris McCain, Isaac Rochell MLB: Denzel Perryman (inj), Korey Toomer, Nick Dzubnar OLB: Jatavis Brown (W), Kyle Emanuel (S), Joshua Perry (W/S), James Onwualu, Mike Moore, Nigel Harris CB: Jason Verrett, Casey Hayward, Trevor Williams, Craig Mager, Trovon Reed, Michael Davis, Randell Evans, Ryan Reid, Brandon Stewart, Brad Watson S: Jahleel Addae (SS), Dwight Lowery (FS), Desmond King (FS), Adrian Phillips (FS), Tre Boston, Rayshawn Jenkins, Dexter McCoil, Adrian McDonald Coaches: Head Coach: Anthony Lynn, Off Coord: Ken Whisenhunt, QB Coach: Shane Steichen, QB Coach: Nick Sirianni, RB Coach: Alfredo Roberts, TE Coach: John McNulty, OL Coach: Pat Meyer, SpecTm Coach: George Stewart, Def Coord: Gus Bradley, DL Coach: Giff Smith, LB Coach: Richard Smith, DB Coach: Ron Milus

Los Angeles Rams

QB: Jared Goff played the first two drives against the Dallas Cowboys and completed 3-of-4 passes for 34 yards. It wasn’t a particularly memorable performance, but for context Goff took the field without three of his top five receivers. Head coach Sean McVay didn’t want to keep Goff in the lineup when most of his supporting cast mates were resting. “I think because we were mindful of getting some of the veteran offensive lineman out. We wanted to make sure we got Todd [Gurley] some touches but got him out. Wanted to him to play with guys that we anticipate him playing with by the time the regular season rolls around,” said McVay. Sean Mannion completed 18 passes on 27 drop backs and was sacked twice. Like Goff, Mannion didn't throw an interception or touchdown in the 13-10 victory. Dan Orlovsky threw just two passes for three yards.

RB: As mentioned last week, the 2015 Rams had the worst tackle-for-loss percentage of any team in the league over the last two years. That was Todd Gurley's breakout season. In 2016, when the team's tackle- for-loss percentage went up, signifying first-level blocking in the ground game, Gurley's average yards-per-carry dropped from 4.8 to 3.2. Those hoping for signs of improvement were left wanting as Gurley struggled in limited snaps against the Cowboys. He only gained two yards on four carries, to go along with a 10-yard reception. The first three backs, in order, to record carries were Gurley (four carries, 2 yards), Malcolm Brown (five carries, 25 yards) and Justin Davis (nine carries, 70 yards.) On Brown's third drive, he fumbled. The next drive, Davis replaced him. On Davis' first carry, he fumbled. Davis then ran for 16 yards on his next play. Davis then fumbled again. With Lance Dunbar out of the picture, the #2 spot is wide open. Both Brown and Davis flashed on Saturday, but those fumbles are a problem.

WR: The Rams made major news this week by trading for the Bills star receiver, Sammy Watkins. Los Angeles traded a 2018 second-round pick and cornerback E.J. Gaines for Watkins and a 2018 sixth-round pick. Whether Watkins’ acquisition signals an end to Tavon Austin’s tenure remains unclear. Releasing Austin will cost $5 million next year, relative to an $8 million cap hit. The Rams have to wait until 2019 if they want to release Austin without penalty, according to Spotrac. Robert Woods, a 2017 free agent signing, would also cost a lot to release this year or next but would be an easy cut in 2019 and beyond, per Spotrac.

It would be odd to give up a premium draft pick for Watkins if the team didn’t plan on re-signing the former Clemson Tiger; Watkins is in the final year of his rookie contract. According to CBS, McVay is pushing for a long-term extension, noting that Watkins is only 24years

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old. Rookies Cooper Kupp and Josh Reynolds face a steeper climb to contributing this year unless Austin is cut.

TE: It was a relatively quiet week for the Rams' tight ends. Rookie Gerald Everett was targeted three times and caught two receptions for 12 yards, neither of which came from Goff. Second-year tight end Tyler Higbee was targeted once for a 3-yard reception.

Defense: The defense had just two tackles for a loss, one sack and no interceptions against Dallas, but held the Cowboys to only 10 points. Including sack yardage, Dallas averaged just 4.67 yards per drop back. On the ground, Dallas averaged just three yards per carry. Kayvon Webster was named the starting cornerback opposite of Trumaine Johnson. Webster played for defensive coordinator Wade Phillips in Denver and signed with Los Angeles this offseason to compete with E.J. Gaines for the starting role. Just days after Webster was named the starter, Gaines became part of a trade package for Sammy Watkins. Webster, safety Lamarcus Joyner, inside linebacker Mark Barron, and outside linebacker Robert Quinn were held out against the Cowboys. According to Alden Gonzalez of ESPN, Quinn is in a “maintenance program.” Joyner is battling a back issue. There's no reason to assume that any of those players will miss time during the regular season as. Defensive star Aaron Donald continues to hold out in a contract dispute.

Returners: The blockbuster acquisition of Sammy Watkins might leave Tavon Austin’s role on offense in flux, but the Rams are so confident in his ability to return punts for them in 2017 that they didn't even bother listing a second-string returner on the initial depth chart. Pharoh Cooper has virtually locked down kick return job.

OL: The first team offensive line only played eight snaps in the preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys. In that brief time, the left side with Andrew Whitworth was solid in pass protection. However, the rushing game could not find much success, and it was evident that the right side was a problem. Last week the coaching staff swapped the right side starters of Jamon Brown and Rob Havenstein. Havenstein started his career at tackle, and coaches’ comments indicate he is safe in that spot. But right guard Brown was terrible in his return to guard and could be in danger of losing reps to Cody Wichmann. Backup center Austin Blythe snapped the ball too high resulting in a 20-yard loss, and backup tackle Pace Murphy was beaten badly. Andrew Donnal would be in the right guard mix but has missed time with a knee injury. Overall, the Rams’ line grades out as a middling unit.

Rams Depth Chart QB: Jared Goff, Sean Mannion, Dan Orlovsky RB: Todd Gurley, Malcolm Brown, Justin Davis, Aaron Green, Brandon Wegher, De′Mard Llorens, Lenard Tillery, Lance Dunbar (inj) FB: Sam Rogers, Zach Laskey WR: Sammy Watkins, Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, Tavon Austin (PR) (inj), Josh Reynolds, Pharoh Cooper, Bradley Marquez, Michael Thomas (susp), Nelson Spruce, Paul McRoberts, KD Cannon, Brandon Shippen, Shakeir Ryan TE: Tyler Higbee, Gerald Everett, Temarrick Hemingway, Corey Harkey (FB), Bryce Williams, Johnny Mundt LT: Andrew Whitworth, Pace Murphy LG: Rodger Saffold C: John Sullivan, Demetrius Rhaney RG: Jamon Brown, Cody Wichmann RT: Rob Havenstein, Andrew Donnal K: Greg Zuerlein NT: Michael Brockers, Mike Purcell, Omarius Bryant DE: Aaron Donald, Ethan Westbrooks, Louis Trinca-Pasat, Tanzel Smart, Matt Longacre, Casanova McKinzy, Cashaud Lyons, Casey Sayles, A.J. Jefferson, Dominique Easley (IR) ILB: Alec Ogletree, Mark Barron (W), Cory Littleton, Bryce Hager, Josh Forrest, Nic Grigsby, Reggie Northrup, Kevin Davis OLB: Robert Quinn, Connor Barwin, Samson Ebukam, Ejuan Price, Morgan Fox, Teidrick Smith CB: Trumaine Johnson, Kayvon Webster, Nickell Robey-Coleman, Marqui Christian, Blake Countess, Troy Hill (susp), Kevin Peterson, Michael Jordan S: Lamarcus Joyner (FS/CB), Maurice Alexander (SS), Cody Davis (FS), John Johnson, Isaiah Johnson, Jerome Couplin, Brian Randolph Coaches: Head Coach: Sean McVay, Off Coord: Matt LaFleur, QB Coach: Greg Olson, RB Coach: Skip Peete, WR Coach: Eric Yarber, TE Coach: Shane Waldron, OL Coach: Aaron Kromer, SpecTm Coach: John Fassel, Def Coord: Wade Philips, DL Coach: Bill Johnson, DB Coach: Aubrey Pleasant, DB Coach: Ejiro Evero

Miami Dolphins

QB: All of the focus in Miami this week was upon newly signed starting quarterback Jay Cutler. The consensus on Cutler’s practice debut was that he was “eye-opening good” for a guy who had been preparing for a broadcasting career just a few days earlier. He wasn’t perfect; a few throws were behind his intended target. But for the most part, he showed no signs of rust and looked the part of a starting NFL quarterback. As the week went on, Cutler showed the inconsistency that has

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characterized his career. He threw an interception in the end zone and had a few poor throws off of his back foot. But he also mixed in some big-time passes that showed off his elite arm strength. The key for Cutler will be trying to find some consistency and avoid the killer mistakes. “Players want the same guy every day,” Head coach Adam Gase said. “When you know what you’re going to get day-in and day-out it just helps the rest of those guys around him. They know what they’re getting, and they know if we’re in the right spot, we’re going to get the going to get the ball ... That consistency day-in and day-out is the key to everything.” Cutler did not play in the preseason opener but is expected to get the start in Week 2. Ryan Tannehill has been officially put on injured reserve and is out for the season. He will have reconstructive surgery on his knee, and the Dolphins are confident he will be ready to play in 2018.

RB: Jay Ajayi was back on the field for Sunday’s team drills, but the team says he is still in the concussion protocol. He was held out of the full contact portion of practice but must be in a late stage of the protocol to participate as much as he did. In Ajayi’s absence, Damien Williams and Kenyan Drake have split the first team reps in practice. Williams got the start in the preseason opener and was solid. Drake came in on the third series and had a few nice carries as well. If Ajayi gets hurt, Williams becomes the top fantasy target, but Drake will probably also be heavily involved. Storm Johnson appears to have an early edge over De’Veon Smith and Senorise Perry for the fourth spot, and he’s been a standout on special teams.

WR: Jarvis Landry is under police investigation for possible battery charges stemming from an incident with his girlfriend that took place earlier this year. Landry claims he did nothing wrong. With the NFL looking to crack down on domestic violence, the allegations raise a red flag and could eventually lead to a suspension. In addition to the off-field issues, the injury to Tannehill probably won’t help Landry. Tannehill and Landry had great chemistry, and Landry was his security blanket. Landry will have to start fresh and build up a rapport with Cutler. DeVante Parker barely played in the preseason opener but expects to see plenty of time in Week Two to create chemistry with Cutler. Parker was the recipient of Cutler’s first touchdown pass in practice and is the type of big-bodied outside receiver who Cutler has helped put up big fantasy numbers in the past. Second-year receiver Leonte Carroo caught a 33-yard touchdown in the preseason opener. Carroo is slimmer and progressing well after a disappointing rookie season. "He's playing way faster," Gase said. “You can see why we drafted him because he has strong hands. He’s a big guy, physical at the line of scrimmage. His quickness has gotten better. His releases have gotten better this year. “Unfortunately, after the solid preseason showing, Carroo has been bothered by a hamstring injury and has

missed practice. The hope is that a couple of days of rest will solve the issue.

TE: Julius Thomas has been invisible in camp. He is slow and has inconsistent hands. On paper, a Thomas reunion with Adam Gase sounded great. But there’s little evidence to date that the relationship is likely to spur a career renaissance.

Defense: On his first NFL snap, Raekwon McMillan tore his ACL. He had already won the starting middle linebacker job with a strong start to training camp. For now, the plan is to replace McMillan with undersized backup Mike Hull and keep Kiko Alonso and Lawrence Timmons on the outside. The team is also likely to be aggressive on the free agent market and may look to a late cut from another team to fill the gaping hole in the middle of the defense. Rookie fifth-round pick Davon Godchaux has played ahead of Jordan Phillips as the first-team defensive tackle for more than a week now. Godchaux has impressed his coaches and teammates with his strength and physicality.

Returners: Nothing can unseat Jakeem Grant from the top of the depth chart at punt and kickoff returner other than a repeat of last year’s turnover problems. To date, however, there is no sign of the untimely fumbles that put him on such thin ice.

OL: Starting left guard Ted Larsen suffered a torn bicep and will miss the entire season. Anthony Steen got the nod in Larsen’s place in the preseason win over the Atlanta Falcons, and he could have the lead on the job over rookie Isaac Asiata, who has been working with the backups. The Dolphins only played one starter from last season during the game, right guard Jermon Bushrod. Center Mike Pouncey has been brought along slowly as he recovers from last year’s hip injury, but coaches expect him to play in at least one preseason game. Kraig Urbik has been manning the pivot in Pouncey’s absence. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil missed the game with an excused absence while right tackle Ju’Wuan James was resting a minor shoulder injury. The Dolphins’ offensive line grades out as slightly below average.

Dolphins Depth Chart QB: Jay Cutler, Matt Moore, David Fales, Brandon Doughty, Ryan Tannehill (IR) RB: Jay Ajayi, Damien Williams (3RB), Kenyan Drake (KR) (inj), Storm Johnson, De′Veon Smith, Senorise Perry WR: Jarvis Landry (PR), DeVante Parker, Kenny Stills, Leonte Carroo, Jakeem Grant (KR/PR), Damore′ea Stringfellow, Isaiah Ford (inj), Rashawn Scott (inj), Jordan Westerkamp, Francis Owusu, Malcolm Lewis, Drew Morgan

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TE: Julius Thomas, Anthony Fasano, Thomas Duarte, Chris Pantale, MarQueis Gray LT: Laremy Tunsil, Terry Poole LG: Anthony Steen, Kraig Urbik, Isaac Asiata C: Mike Pouncey, Ted Larsen (IR) RG: Jermon Bushrod RT: JaWuan James, Sam Young K: Andrew Franks DT: Ndamukong Suh, Davon Godchaux, Jordan Phillips, Nick Williams, Vincent Taylor DE: William Hayes, Cameron Wake, Andre Branch, Charles Harris, Terrence Fede, Julius Warmsley MLB: Mike Hull, Raekwon McMillan (IR) OLB: Kiko Alonso (W), Lawrence Timmons (S/M), Neville Hewitt, Trevor Reilly, Lamin Barrow, Brandon Watts, Deon Lacey, Koa Misi (IR) CB: Xavien Howard, Byron Maxwell, Cordrea Tankersley, Bobby McCain, Alterraun Verner, Jordan Lucas, Walt Aikens, Lafayette Pitts, Daniel Davie, Tony Lippett (IR) S: Reshad Jones (SS), T.J. McDonald (SS) (susp), Nate Allen (FS), Michael Thomas (SS), A.J. Hendy Coaches: Head Coach: Adam Gase, Off Coord: Clyde Christensen, QB Coach: Bo Hardegree, RB Coach: Danny Barrett, WR Coach: Shawn Jefferson, TE Coach: Shane Day, OL Coach: Chris Foerster, SpecTm Coach: Darren Rizzi, Def Coord: Matt Burke, DL Coach: Terrell Williams, LB Coach: Frank Bush, DB Coach: Lou Anarumo

Minnesota Vikings

QB: The offensive line has some work to do to protect Sam Bradford. Against the Bills, there was a point in the game when Bradford was sacked on back-to-back passing attempts forcing the Vikings to punt. With Teddy Bridgewater still not seeing the field, a reliable, veteran backup quarterback was needed. So far, Case Keenum has been impressive in that spot. In the first preseason game, Keenum completed 11-of-16 passes for 121 yards and led the team to two scoring drives. He is the clear front runner for the team's backup job, but third stringer Taylor Heinicke, who threw a touchdown pass to Rodney Adams, is trying to keep it interesting.

RB: Bishop Sankey tore his ACL and has been waived. He was working as the #2 running back while Latavius Murray nurses his ankle injury. All eyes have been on Dalvin Cook to see if he can grab control of the top spot. Cook gained 13 yards on five carries and caught all four of his targets for 30 yards. The Vikings punted on all three of Cook’s series, so the nine total touches is a small sample size and not enough to draw any conclusions. The Vikings want to continue to find ways

for Cook in the run and pass game. “He didn’t have a lot of open space. He had good runs; he had effective runs,” Zimmer said. “I guess the one pass that he caught on the sideline there and the other screen pass; it kind of showed his ability a little bit more than when he can really hit a crease and go. You didn’t really see that the other night, it just wasn’t there. The first two plays of the game we knocked them off the ball 4-5 yards. He got what was there. The thing I liked about him was, when it got into tight quarters, he lowered his shoulders and tried to fight for the extra couple yards.”

Latavius Murray finally made his way back from ankle surgery and participated in some individual drills during practice. He missed the team’s preseason game against the Bills, but head coach Mike Zimmer said there is “no issue” with Murray being ready to play Week One against New Orleans. Jerick McKinnon is the other name to monitor at the running back position, but he is still dealing with a lower leg injury that he suffered early in camp.

WR: Seventh round draft pick Stacy Coley impressed with 67 yards on three catches, showing quickness after the catch. He made a particularly athletic catch on a 38-yard completion. Laquon Treadwell had one of the most disappointing rookie seasons that a first round pick can have. Treadwell followed up a disappointing year with a fight with a teammate during practice, and that may have resulted in an injury. Treadwell has missed most of the past week due to a leg injury; he will need to make a strong push going forward to win the third receiver role from Jarius Wright. Michael Floyd continues to impress as he caught both of his targets for 20 yards against the Bills. If Floyd didn’t have the 4-game suspension to open the season, he would be vying for the #3 role behind Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen. Stefon Diggs continues to impress in camp, with an increasing connection with Bradford with each successive week. Diggs has potential to be a Top 15 fantasy receiver, especially if Bradford continues to zero in on him. “Having time to spend with him during the offseason, a lot of it off the field, our lockers are by each other, just talking to him, developing that chemistry,” Bradford said. “I think the better relationship you have with someone off the field; the easier it is to trust them on the field. He does a great job getting open; he does a great job beating the coverage, he’s one of those guys that as a quarterback you just enjoy throwing to,” Bradford said.

TE: Sam Bradford and Kyle Rudolph were in sync this week as they connected on a 4-yard touchdown on a third-and-goal situation in practice.

Defense: Cornerback Trae Waynes suffered a shoulder injury during the first drive of the preseason game against the Bills. Waynes started nine games for the

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Vikings last season, splitting time with veteran Terence Newman. The injury will be one to monitor for the team's secondary depth moving forward. Everson Griffen had a sack on limited snaps against the Bills; he remains the team’s dominant pass rusher. Backup Horace Richardson has not one, not two, but three quarterback hits against Buffalo’s backups. Linebacker Eric Wilson led the team with seven tackles and two passes defended.

K: The kicker competition between Kai Forbath and Marshall Koehn didn’t have any big swings in the preseason opener, as both made extra points and Forbath made a 36-yard field goal. Koehn had a better practice following the game, but this battle is far from resolved.

Returners: The Vikings have clarity at the punt returner position, where Marcus Sherels will return to the role he's handled for the better part of a decade. At kickoff returner, however, there is no such clarity. Sherels continues to battle younger contenders including rookies Rodney Adams and Stacy Cole.

OL: Even though the Vikings beat Buffalo in the preseason opener, the first team offensive line had trouble protecting starting quarterback Sam Bradford. Bradford was sacked twice, and he’s not a player known for his durability. Right tackle Mike Remmers was caught lunging against second-year defender Eddie Yarbrough. Left tackle Riley Reiff was inactive with a back injury, and Rashod Hill struggled in his place. The team needs Reiff to get healthy, but there is time before the season starts. Nick Easton and rookie Pat Elfein continue to compete at center. Elfein has more physical upside but had a high shotgun snap during the game. Overall, the line looked better in run blocking than in pass protection. Both Reid Fragel and T.J. Clemmings struggled in backup tackle duty. The Vikings’ line grades out as a lower tier unit.

Vikings Depth Chart QB: Sam Bradford, Teddy Bridgewater (inj), Case Keenum, Taylor Heinicke, Wes Lunt RB: Dalvin Cook, Latavius Murray (inj), Jerick McKinnon, C.J. Ham, Terrell Newby, Bishop Sankey (IR) WR: Stefon Diggs, Adam Thielen, Laquon Treadwell, Michael Floyd, Jarius Wright, Moritz Bohringer, Stacy Coley, Rodney Adams (KR), Isaac Freuchte, Cayleb Jones, Mitch Mathews, R.J. Shelton TE: Kyle Rudolph, David Morgan, Bucky Hodges, Kyle Carter, Nick Truesdell, Josiah Price LT: Riley Reiff, T.J. Clemmings LG: Alex Boone, Zac Kerin C: Nick Easton, Pat Elflein RG: Joe Berger, Willie Beavers, Danny Isidora, Reid Fragel

RT: Mike Remmers, Jeremiah Sirles K: Kai Forbath, Marshall Koehn DT: Shamar Stephen, Linval Joseph (NT), Sharrif Floyd (inj), Jaleel Johnson, Tom Johnson, Toby Johnson, Dylan Bradley DE: Everson Griffen, Danielle Hunter, Brian Robison, Datone Jones, Ifeadi Odenigbo, Stephen Weatherly, Tashawn Bower, Caleb Kidder, Sam McCaskill MLB: Eric Kendricks, Kentrell Brothers, Ben Gedeon OLB: Anthony Barr (S), Emmanuel Lamur (W/M), Edmond Robinson (S), Elijah Lee, Eric Wilson CB: Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, Mackensie Alexander, Terence Newman, Marcus Sherels (PR), Jack Tocho, Jabari Price, Tre Roberson, Terrell Sinkfield, Horace Richardson S: Harrison Smith (FS), Andrew Sendejo, Anthony Harris (FS), Antone Exum (FS), Jayron Kearse Coaches: Head Coach: Mike Zimmer, Off Coord: Pat Shurmur, QB Coach: Kevin Stefanski, RB Coach: Kennedy Pola, WR Coach: Darrell Hazell, TE Coach: Clancy Barone, OL Coach: Tony Sparano, SpecTm Coach: Mike Priefer, Def Coord: George Edwards, DL Coach: Andre Patterson, LB Coach: Adam Zimmer, DB Coach: Jerry Gray

New England Patriots

QB: Jimmy Garoppolo’s up-and-down camp has continued into the preseason. He started Thursday’s opener and played deep into the third quarter, and his performance against the Jaguars starters was simultaneously praised and criticized. He was effective at throwing underneath against the Jaguars’ first and second teams, but produced little down the field and took some damaging sacks – including two drive-killers on third downs. He continues to look like a dependable backup but has yet to show much as an impactful NFL starter. Third-teamer Jacoby Brissett sizzled late in Thursday’s matchup, but it’s difficult to truly gauge his progress. His camp has been even shakier than Garoppolo’s, and he plays exclusively against third and fourth teams.

RB: Dion Lewis’ chances at a significant role may have taken a hit Thursday night. Lewis played 24 snaps in the preseason opener, far more than we typically see of players ingrained into the first-team offense. Bill Belichick already has a solid idea of what Lewis brings to the table, yet he played him extensively over James White and Rex Burkhead, both considered roster locks with solid offensive roles in place. Lewis showed relatively well Thursday (55 yards on 11 touches), but still may be firmly behind those two – as well as Mike Gillislee – in the team’s plans. Gillislee, however, is

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showing some early concerns himself. He hasn’t practiced since August 2nd due to a hamstring injury and was listed fifth on the team’s first camp depth chart. Depth charts typically mean little this early, and assuming his hamstring heals quickly, Gillislee should remain squarely in the mix. But it’s looking less and less like he’ll run away with the LeGarrette Blount roles of primary runner and goal-line dominator. This backfield has all the makings of a pure hot-hand committee. We do know, however, that White still leads the charge comfortably on passing downs. There are new and intriguing pieces in the backfield, but White and his hefty role don’t appear to be going anywhere. Running back/receiver hybrid D.J. Foster has impressed again – he caught three passes and ran for a touchdown Thursday night – but remains purely White’s practice-squad understudy. Brandon Bolden played great Thursday as well, but as with Lewis, that’s probably more damning than positive. Bolden simply doesn’t offer the offensive utility to make this a five- or six-back roster.

WR: Brandin Cooks didn’t play in the preseason opener, but we’re getting a strong indication of his 2017 usage from practices. He’s been targeted all over the field – including the red zone – and his speed has been commanding thus far. Cooks out-targeted long-time slot man Julian Edelman in last week’s joint practice session with the Jaguars, pulling them nearly even regarding camp usage. It’s hard to pin down their 2017 volume distribution, but the early returns on Cooks couldn’t be much better. Further down the depth chart, Malcolm Mitchell opened camp as a full participant, but has struggled to stay healthy; his battle with Chris Hogan as the third wideout is a relatively open one. Hogan is the more dynamic downfield threat, and he capitalized on Mitchell’s absence early in camp. But to his credit, Mitchell returned to practice last Tuesday with a bang. Undrafted rookie Austin Carr has impressed in camp as well – he caught five balls and a touchdown against Jacksonville – but looks like a roster long shot. Dependable veteran Danny Amendola has the fifth job locked up, and longtime special-teams demon Matt Slater will almost certainly return as well.

TE: Rob Gronkowski is practicing in full and looks dominant, catching tough balls in traffic. He’s unencumbered by last year’s hernia surgery. Over the course of last Tuesday’s practice with the Jaguars, for example, Gronkowski caught four touchdowns in the team’s first 7-on-7 drills, then two more touchdowns later in the day for good measure. Behind him, new Patriot Dwayne Allen is looking more and more like a dynamic complement after a “horrible” spring. He’s reportedly garnering a ton of red zone attention in camp; considering Gronkowski’s injury history, Allen could carry similar fantasy value to Martellus Bennett last year. Like Bennett, Allen is a strong blocker with ample starting experience of his own. Undrafted rookie

Jacob Hollister is staking a claim as the third tight end. He led the team with seven receptions and 116 yards against the Jaguars, making a few tough, contested catches in traffic.

Defense: Inside linebacker and defensive captain Dont’a Hightower, currently on the PUP list, has teamed with longtime Tom Brady trainer Alex Guerrero to “build strength in his knee.” Hightower has long struggled to stay healthy but has always been impactful when on the field; his recovery is crucial to the Patriots defense. Bill Belichick was unhappy after his defense was gashed Thursday night, allowing touchdowns of 97, 79, and 42 yards. “There were a lot of problems on all those plays,” he told reporters. “Just, obviously bad. We need to do a lot better than that.” Granted, the Patriots sat all of their veteran starters, but the performance didn’t bode well for a handful of youngsters looking to stick. Recent second-round picks Cyrus Jones and Jordan Richards looked especially shaky.

Returners: In 2016, rookie Cyrus Jones was the team's top choice to handle punt and kickoff returns until a handful of fumbles led the team to a more reliable veteran. Jones hasn't muffed a single return since the start of training camp, however, and if he can keep that streak alive, the punt return job will almost certainly be his again, and he'll likely be a factor on kickoffs, as well.

OL: The Patriots did not play starting tackles Nate Solder and Marcus Cannon in the preseason loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The veterans are nursing minor injuries, but both should be available for the start of the regular season. The team turned to backups LaAdrian Waddle and Cameron Fleming, and both struggled, forcing backup quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to break the pocket and scramble on several occasions. In other news, center David Andrews signed a contract extension this offseason, but industry observers believe he did not get full value. Ted Karras remains the team’s top interior backup. The Patriots’ offensive line is a solid mid-tier option.

Patriots Depth Chart QB: Tom Brady, Jimmy Garoppolo, Jacoby Brissett RB: Mike Gillislee (inj), James White (3RB), Dion Lewis (3RB), Rex Burkhead, Brandon Bolden, D.J. Foster, LeShun Daniels Jr. FB: James Develin, Glenn Gronkowski WR: Brandin Cooks, Julian Edelman, Chris Hogan, Malcolm Mitchell, Danny Amendola (PR), Matt Slater, Austin Carr, Devin Lucien, Cody Hollister, K.J. Maye TE: Rob Gronkowski, Dwayne Allen, Matt Lengel, James O′Shaughnessy, Jacob Hollister, Sam Cotton LT: Nate Solder, Tony Garcia, LaAdrian Waddle LG: Joe Thuney, Ted Karras

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C: David Andrews, James Ferentz RG: Shaq Mason RT: Marcus Cannon, Cameron Fleming, Conor McDermott K: Stephen Gostkowski DT: Malcom Brown, Alan Branch, Vincent Valentine, Lawrence Guy, Woodrow Hamilton, Josh Augusta, Darius Kilgo DE: Trey Flowers, Kony Ealy, Derek Rivers, Deatrich Wise, Geneo Grissom MLB: Dont′a Hightower, David Harris, Trevor Bates, Harvey Langi, Brooks Ellis OLB: Shea McClellin (S), Kyle Van Noy (W), Elandon Roberts (W), Jonathan Freeny CB: Malcolm Butler, Stephon Gilmore, Eric Rowe, Justin Coleman, Cyrus Jones (KR/PR), Jonathan Jones S: Devin McCourty (FS/CB), Patrick Chung (SS), Duron Harmon (SS), Nate Ebner (FS), Jordan Richards (SS), Brandon King (FS), David Jones Coaches: Head Coach: Bill Belichick, Off Coord: Josh McDaniels, RB Coach: Ivan Fears, WR Coach: Chad Oshea, TE Coach: Nick Caley, OL Coach: Dante Scarnecchia, SpecTm Coach: Joe Judge, Def Coord: Matt Patricia, DL Coach: Brendan Daly, LB Coach: Brian Flores, DB Coach: Steve Belichick

New Orleans Saints

QB: Drew Brees did not play in the Saints first pre-season game, but there is no question that he will continue to be the central figure in the Saints offensive game plan in 2017. Any concern about whether or not he will continue to play for New Orleans after this year is not likely to impact either his play or the Saints decisions about the offensive game plan. Chase Daniel drew the start against Cleveland, played consistently and will almost undoubtedly be this year’s backup quarterback. Garrett Grayson and Ryan Nassib played the majority of the opening preseason game. The team’s offseason free agency and draft moves signal a commitment to improving the team’s rushing attack. However, the offensive line injuries have left the team scrambling.

RB: The first depth chart was released, and Mark Ingram and Adrian Peterson were listed as co-starters at running back. Neither played a snap in the preseason opener. Even though Peterson continues to grab more of the media coverage, Ingram has also looked very good in practice sessions. Alvin Kamara started the game but did not play long. He showed excellent patience and burst, breaking out of what looked to be a stacked line, escaping to the outside and turning the corner for a 22-yard gain. He has also looked good as a receiver in practice but was not targeted in the game. Kamara was

also used as a punt returner. Daniel Lasco and Travaris Cadet are competing for the final spot on the 53-man roster.

WR: Michael Thomas will undoubtedly lead the team this season in targets. He has consistently made plays in practice sessions and also sat out the first preseason game. The initial depth chart surprisingly listed Ted Ginn, Jr. as the other starter, with Willie Snead behind him. However, the eleven starters did not include a slot receiving position and Snead is likely to fill that slot, as well as being used on the outside often. Ginn did play and dropped what could have been a touchdown pass in the end zone. Afterward, Coach Sean Payton said, “Listen, I’m comfortable with the player, and he’s gonna make more big plays than not.” Brandon Coleman has had an excellent camp, and he caught three passes on three targets in the game. He continues to be the fourth wide receiver. However, practice reports have consistently praised the play of Tommylee Lewis, a second-year player out of Northern Illinois. The Saints have a long history of success with undrafted free agent wide receivers, so Lewis has an opportunity to make the team. He also returned punts.

TE: The team has had a lot of recent success at the tight end position. Coby Fleener signed a five-year, $36 million contract in March of 2016 with hopes of continuing that success but he ended up a disappointment. Aside from an article in late May indicating that Fleener expects to be more efficient this year, there have not been many positive reports. Josh Hill, who began to play more often in midseason a year ago before a leg injury sent him to injured reserve, was re-signed by the Saints who matched the Bears’ free-agent offer. Hill is competing with Fleener for the lead tight end role.

Defense: The linebacker position has been a problem area for the Saints, and the situation was addressed both in free agency and in the draft. Early preseason has seen a lot of variations, but it appears that A.J. Klein (free agent signee from Carolina) and Manti Te’o (free agent signee from the Chargers) may both be starting. Neither signing was valued when it happened, so if they both start, the problems could continue. At a minimum, the Saints depth has improved. Cameron Jordan has been outstanding during the preseason and has taken a significant leadership role. Sheldon Rankins started slowly in his rookie season but played more often and better over the course of the year. The defensive line depth took a serious hit losing Nick Fairley for the season. Hau’oli Kikaha, fully recovered from his third ACL injury, has played better than expected. Free agent Alex Okafor and third round rookie Trey Hendrickson should provide improved depth. Delvin Breaux, a projected starter, continues to miss practice with some kind of lower leg injury. 11th overall pick Marshon

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Lattimore was injured on August 2nd and continues to miss practice. Ken Crawley and P.J. Williams have played well at times while Breaux and Lattimore have been out. Coach Payton appreciated their aggressiveness in the first preseason game, even though the secondary was flagged for a few penalties. Kenny Vaccaro and Vonn Bell remain the starters at safety, but Erik Harris and Rafael Bush are pushing for playing time.

K: Just a week after signing him, the Saints have released Patrick Murray. Whatever “competition” he presented to Wil Lutz is gone, and Lutz should be considered safe. He’s draftable in standard leagues because of the caliber of the Saints offense.

Returners: Ted Ginn has led a long NFL career in part because of his consistent value on special teams. He looks to extend that streak in 2017 as the Saints leading return candidate, with only rookie Alvin Kamara offering any challenge.

OL: With left tackle Terron Armstead out at least a couple of months with a torn labrum, and first round pick Ryan Ramzyck still recovering from a hip injury, the Saints started Khalif Barnes at left tackle during the preseason loss to the Browns. Ramzyck has been getting healthier, and he could be on track to be the opening day starter. Center Max Unger is on track to return by the third preseason game. Josh LeRibeus has been inconsistent as Unger’s backup. With another year under his belt at the position, left guard Andrus Peat has been impressive in practice. Right tackle Zach Streif has been solid, too. The Saints’ offensive line is a solid unit assuming Unger is in the lineup.

Saints Depth Chart QB: Drew Brees, Chase Daniel, Garett Grayson, Ryan Nassib RB: Mark Ingram, Adrian Peterson, Alvin Kamara, Daniel Lasco, Travaris Cadet, Trey Edmunds FB: John Kuhn, John Robinson-Woodgett WR: Michael Thomas, Willie Snead, Ted Ginn (KR/PR), Brandon Coleman, Tommylee Lewis (PR), Travin Dural, Jake Lampman, Corey Fuller, Ahmad Fulwood, Xavier Rush TE: Coby Fleener, Josh Hill, Michael Hoomanawanui, John Phillips, Clay Harbor, Braedon Bowman LT: Khalif Barnes, Terron Armstead (PUP) LG: Andrus Peat C: Max Unger RG: Larry Warford, Senio Kelemete RT: Zach Strief, Ryan Ramczyk K: Wil Lutz DT: Sheldon Rankins, David Onyemata, Tyeler Davison, Tony McDaniel, Ashaad Mabry, Justin

Zimmer, John Hughes, Nick Fairley (res) DE: Cameron Jordan, Alex Okafor, Trey Hendrickson, Hau′oli Kikaha (S), Darryl Tapp, Obum Gwachum, Jason Jones, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Mitchell Loewen MLB: Manti Te′o, Adam Bighill OLB: A.J. Klein (S), Craig Robertson (W/S), Stephone Anthony (W), Alex Anzalone (W), Nathan Stupar (S), Michael Mauti (W/S), Jonathan Walton (W), Dannell Ellerbe (IR) CB: Delvin Breaux, PJ Williams, Marshon Lattimore, Sterling Moore, Ken Crawley, Damian Swann, De′Vante Harris, Arthur Maulet, Taveze Calhoun, Malik Foreman S: Kenny Vaccaro (SS), Vonn Bell (FS), Rafael Bush (SS), Marcus Williams (FS), Chris Banjo (FS), Erik Harris (SS) Coaches: Head Coach: Sean Payton, QB Coach: Joe Lombardi, RB Coach: Joel Thomas, WR Coach: Curtis Johnson, TE Coach: Dan Campbell, OL Coach: Dan Roushar, SpecTm Coach: Bradford Banta, Def Coord: Dennis Allen, DL Coach: Ryan Nielsen, LB Coach: Mike Nolan, DB Coach: Aaron Glenn

New York Giants

QB: The Giants are preaching patience with the offensive line, but it’s hard not to be concerned. ESPN’s Dan Graziano singled out left tackle Ereck Flowers: “The concern about left tackle Ereck Flowers is real. I couldn't wring an outright endorsement out of anyone to whom I spoke.” Flowers’ performance against the Steelers in the preseason opener did little to alleviate the criticism; Steelers rookie T.J. Watt notched two sacks against the Giants first team line. Eli Manning didn’t play (as expected) against the Steelers, which gave Josh Johnson a chance to pull even with Geno Smith for the #2 job. Unfortunately, neither Johnson nor Smith played well enough to create separation. Johnson started and completed 5-of-10 attempts for 31 yards; he was sacked three times, but much of the blame fell on him for breaking the pocket too quickly. Smith was equally unimpressive. He completed 10-of-16 passes for 114 yards and an interception. Rookie Davis Webb finished out the game in a similar fashion; he completed 8-of-16 passes for 67 yards.

RB: Head Coach Ben McAdoo named Paul Perkins the starter at the beginning of camp, but the 2nd year back hasn’t done much to inspire confidence. He’s been tentative running behind a piecemeal offensive line, and the former UCLA Bruin needs a strong few weeks of preseason action, or he’ll fall back into a committee

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situation. Perkins ran five times against the Steelers but only gained three yards. Rookie Wayne Gallman was no better (five rushes for 11 yards). Orleans Darkwa, on the other hand, has been impressive throughout camp and was the best back against Pittsburgh. Darkwa gained 18 yards on three carries (6.0 per attempt) and is making a credible case to share carries with Perkins.

WR: Odell Beckham (rest) and Sterling Shepard (ankle) sat out versus the Steelers, and Brandon Marshall played one series without a target. The best news of the week was Shepard’s return to practice after missing two weeks. The top trio is set for the regular season, but the backup spots remain contested. Neither Roger Lewis, Dwayne Harris, nor Kevin Norwood did much to impress this week.

TE: Rookie Evan Engram was targeted twice and caught an 11-yard pass in the preseason opener. Although rookie tight ends rarely have fantasy relevance, it looks like Engram is going to be the starter over Will Tye and Jerrell Adams.

Defense: The defense has the chance to be one of the league’s best, it’s just a matter of building cohesion and integrating the new additions. Most of the key defensive linemen played sparingly or sat out versus the Steelers. Jason Pierre-Paul rested while Olivier Vernon and Damon Harrison played a handful of snaps. Starting cornerback Janoris Jenkins also played sparingly. Landon Collins, arguably the Giant’s best defender, dominated as usual; he had five tackles in just ten plays. “He likes to play football, he’s always around the ball, he has a nose for the ball, and he’s a hammer when he gets there,’’ Coach McAdoo said.

K: Aldrick Rosas and Mike Nugent are very close through one week of the preseason. Both made two attempts in the preseason opener. Nugent was good from 30 and 45 yards, while Rosas made 27- and 52-yarders. Rosas admitted the 52-yard kick was his first since high school.

Returners: Several Giants rookies have made noise on special teams. Travis Rudolph earned some practice reps on punt returns despite never holding the role in college. Donte Deayon, meanwhile, made the wrong kind of impression in the first preseason game by fumbling a punt. All of these practice reps mostly amount to due diligence, as Dwayne Harris has a strong lead for the primary return job in 2017.

OL: The Giants started their full first team offensive line in the preseason loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The line played three series together before giving way to the backups. The big news was the two sacks given up to Steelers’ rookie T.J. Watt. Despite Watt’s big night, the

sacks were more the fault of the backup quarterback (Josh Johnson) making incorrect decisions than poor line play. Both of the young tackles Ereck Flowers and Bobby Hart looked solid in pass protection, which is in stark contrast to how Flowers has looked through most of the preseason. Hart, on the other hand, locked down his side of the field and is an ascending young starter. The line as a whole did a below average job in run blocking, and that is an area which the coaches will work on as the season approaches.

Giants Depth Chart QB: Eli Manning, Josh Johnson, Geno Smith, Davis Webb, Keith Wenning RB: Paul Perkins, Shane Vereen (3RB), Orleans Darkwa, Wayne Gallman, Shaun Draughn, George Winn, Jacob Huesman, Daryl Virgies FB: Nikita Whitlock WR: Odell Beckham Jr., Brandon Marshall, Sterling Shepard (KR) (inj), Dwayne Harris (KR/PR), Roger Lewis, Tavarres King, Travis Rudolph, Darius Powe, Kevin Norwood, Ben Edwards, Kevin Snead TE: Evan Engram, Matt LaCosse, Jerell Adams, Will Tye, Rhett Ellison LT: Ereck Flowers, Adam Bisnowaty, Michael Bowie LG: Justin Pugh, Adam Gettis, Jon Halapio C: Weston Richburg, Brent Jones RG: John Jerry RT: Bobby Hart, D.J. Fluker K: Aldrick Rosas, Mike Nugent DT: Damon Harrison (NT), Jay Bromley, Dalvin Tomlinson, Jarron Jones, Robert Thomas DE: Olivier Vernon, Jason Pierre-Paul, Romeo Okwara, Kerry Wynn, Owa Odighizuwa, Avery Moss, Devin Taylor, Stansly Maponga, Jordan Williams MLB: B.J. Goodson, Keenan Robinson, Mark Herzlich OLB: Devon Kennard (S), Jonathan Casillas (W), J.T. Thomas (S), Deontae Skinner, Calvin Munson, Curtis Grant, Jimmy Herman CB: Janoris Jenkins, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Eli Apple, Antwon Blake, Donte Deayon, Michael Hunter S: Landon Collins (SS), Andrew Adams (FS), Darian Thompson (FS), Nat Berhe (FS), Duke Ihenacho, Eric Pinkins, Ryan Murphy, Mykkele Thompson (IR) Coaches: Head Coach: Ben McAdoo, Off Coord: Mike Sullivan, QB Coach: Frank Cignetti, RB Coach: Craig Johnson, WR Coach: Adam Henry, TE Coach: Keith Gilbertson, OL Coach: Mike Solari, SpecTm Coach: Tom Quinn, Def Coord: Steve Spagnuolo, DL Coach: Patrick Graham, LB Coach: Bill McGovern, DB Coach: Tim Walton, DB Coach: David Merritt

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New York Jets

QB: After more than a year, we finally got a significant look at Christian Hackenberg as he relieved Josh McCown Saturday night during the Jets’ 7-3 win over the Tennessee Titans. The second-year player looked decent against backups. Hackenberg completed 18-of-25 passes for 127 yards as the coaches dialed up a conservative game plan. He struggled at times, especially downfield. Expect Hackenberg to throw short timing passes. Josh McCown, who also looked relatively good in limited action, praised Hackenberg: “I was so proud of Hack tonight because you have little hiccups here and there that happen, that weren't necessarily his fault," McCown said. "But he kept battling and played within the game." Head coach Todd Bowles said, “He has some things to build off. He has some positives that we can look at and he can build from. He's got some negatives that we've got to correct. That's to be expected in the first game." The Jets are a long way from knowing if Hackenberg is any good; he needs to perform against first line defenses. ESPN’s Rich Cimini thinks the team may see enough for him to supplant McCown early in the regular season.

RB: Bilal Powell returned from a neck injury on Tuesday after missing ten days of practice. Matt Forte remains out with a sore hamstring. Sixth rounder Eli McGuire saw action in their absence. It wasn’t a great night for McGuire who totaled seven yards on six carries and lost yards on his one catch, but in his defense, he had two decent runs brought back by penalties. McGuire is a versatile player, but that wasn’t in evidence on Saturday. None of the Jets running backs looked good against the Titans, save perhaps Jordan Todman, though he didn’t see action until the middle of the third quarter.

WR: A bulging disc has ended Quincy Enunwa’s season. That leaves an already thin receiver corps even worse off. Both Robby Anderson and Jalin Marshall called the injury an opportunity and are ready to do their part to make the Jets competitive. Anderson put up 71 yards on three catches Saturday and had no issues getting open, including when he torched cornerback Logan Ryan on a 53-yard gain. Marshall, who is suspended to start the season, didn’t fare as well. He had a drop and a penalty which negated a big run. Marshall may not make it through the final cuts if he keeps that up. One player that could take his spot is Chris Harper, who spent last season on San Francisco’s practice squad. He looked solid against Tennessee but will have to keep it up to make the team. NJ.com’s Darryl Slater says Harper has been working after practice with the JUGS machine catching passes. Recently signed Lucky Whitehead broke his foot and will miss the season.

TE: NJ.com’s Connor Hughes reports, “You'd be hard-pressed to find a player more impressive than Austin Seferian-Jenkins these first three weeks of camp.” Seferian-Jenkins is suspended for the first two games of the season, but with Quincy Enunwa out, Hughes speculates Seferian-Jenkins could end up serving as the Jets’ top option. The only other option for the Jets is rookie Jordan Leggett, but the fifth rounder isn’t quite up to speed yet. His athleticism is decent, but overall he’s an average player, albeit one who will be in the spotlight early with Seferian-Jenkins out for two games to start the season.

Defense: If the Jets win anything, it will be due to the defense, which we saw in full effect Saturday. The beleaguered unit got to Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota several times and sacked him once, courtesy of Leonard Williams. The defense totaled eight sacks, 11 quarterback hits and a forced fumble plus an interception by backup Alex Tanney. Sheldon Richardson (seven snaps) and Mo Wilkerson (six snaps) had a quiet night. Linebacker Jordan Jenkins played into the fourth quarter and looked good.

K: With Ross Martin ahead of Chandler Catanzaro coming into the preseason opener, Catanzaro was under the microscope. He missed a 55-yard kick and an opportunity to change the momentum in the position battle. Martin remains the favorite to win, albeit in one of the worst possible fantasy situations for a kicker.

Returners: With top returner Jalin Marshall suspended to start the season for PEDs, the Jets signed former Cowboy Lucky Whitehead, who is battling with receiver Frankie Hammond for the job. Whoever wins, Marshall remains on the roster and could return after four weeks to reclaim his role.

OL: In the preseason win over the Tennessee Titans, left tackle Kelvin Beachum saw his first action since arriving via free agency. Beachum was rusty, but the first team line kept the pocket clean for Josh McCown’s four pass attempts. Later in the game, backup center Jonotthan Harrison botched a snap with quarterback Christian Hackenberg. Coaches characterized it as a miscommunication. The right tackle competition has been razor thin, with Brent Qvale and Brandon Shell splitting reps in practice. Qvale got the start against the Titans and recorded a holding penalty during the second quarter. Shell played solidly, but he is prone to mental lapses and has not taken hold of the job. Qvale remains the first team right tackle but swing tackle Ben Ijalana could swoop in and steal the job. Guards James Carpenter and Brian Winters are above average players, but overall the Jets’ offensive line grades out as a lower-tier unit.

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Jets Depth Chart QB: Josh McCown, Christian Hackenberg, Bryce Petty RB: Bilal Powell (inj), Matt Forte (inj), Elijah McGuire (PR), Marcus Murphy, Jordan Todman, Romar Morris FB: Anthony Firkser, Julian Howsare, Algernon Brown WR: Robby Anderson, ArDarius Stewart, Charone Peake, Jalin Marshall (KR/PR) (susp), Chad Hansen, Chris Harper, Marquess Wilson, Gabe Marks, Frankie Hammond (PR), Myles White, Lucky Whitehead (inj), Quincy Enunwa (IR), Devin Smith (IR) TE: Austin Seferian-Jenkins (susp), Brandon Bostick, Jordan Leggett, Eric Tomlinson, Jordan Vander Laan, Chris Gragg LT: Kelvin Beachum LG: James Carpenter, Dakota Dozier C: Wesley Johnson, Jonotthan Harrison RG: Brian Winters RT: Brent Qvale, Ben Ijalana, Brandon Shell K: Chandler Catanzaro DT: Anthony Johnson, Mike Pennel, Steve McLendon, Deon Simon, Devon Still DE: Muhammad Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson, Leonard Williams, Lawrence Thomas, Julien Obioha, Claude Pelon MLB: Demario Davis, Erin Henderson, Bruce Carter, Austin Calitro, Randell Johnson, Connor Harris OLB: Lorenzo Mauldin (S), Jordan Jenkins, Darron Lee, Dylan Donahue, Mike Catapano, Julian Stanford, Josh Martin, Freddie Bishop CB: Buster Skrine, Morris Claiborne, Marcus Williams, Juston Burris, Darryl Roberts, Jeremy Clark, Derrick Jones, Dexter McDougle, Bryson Keeton, Corey White (IR) S: Jamal Adams (SS), Marcus Maye, Rontez Miles, Doug Middleton, Shamarko Thomas, Ronald Milton Coaches: Head Coach: Todd Bowles, Off Coord: John Morton, QB Coach: Jeremy Bates, RB Coach: Stump Mitchell, WR Coach: Karl Dorrell, TE Coach: Jim Johnson, OL Coach: Steven Marshall, SpecTm Coach: Brant Boyer, Def Coord: Kacy Rodgers, DL Coach: Robert Nunn, LB Coach: Kevin Greene, LB Coach: Mike Caldwell, DB Coach: Daylon McCutcheon, DB Coach: Dennard Wilson

Oakland Raiders

QB: It was tough to take anything from the Raiders preseason opener; most of the starters sat. Derek Carr, Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, Marshawn Lynch and most of the first-team offensive line watched from the sidelines. EJ Manuel got the start and completed 10-of-12 passes for 107 yards in the first half. He continues to strengthen his hold on the backup job. Connor Cook

played the entire second half and didn't look like he progressed from a rough rookie year. He completed just 10-of-21 attempts for 82 yards. The 2016 4th-rounder sits squarely on the roster bubble after being drafted ahead of Dak Prescott.

RB: With Marshawn Lynch sitting out, DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard split reps. Washington played the entire first and third drives, while Richard played the second and fourth drives. Both understandably struggled to find running room as the Raiders second-string line was facing most of the Cardinals starters. The duo’s usage was reminiscent of last season. While Washington has been running ahead of Richard in camp, he’s not a clear handcuff to Lynch. If Lynch gets hurt, expect a full-fledged committee including Washington, Richard, and possibly rookie Elijah Hood.

WR: Amari Cooper has been nursing a minor leg injury for about a week, practicing just once and sitting out the preseason opener. Michael Crabtree also sat out against the Cardinals. Cordarrelle Patterson hasn’t been able to displace incumbent #3, Seth Roberts. “‘How’s ‘Crab?’ How’s ‘Coop?’ How’s Cordarrelle? How’s Jared?’” Derek Carr said of the most common questions he’s gotten about his receiving corps of late. “I’m like, ‘they’re great, but so is Seth.’ I don’t know why he goes under the radar so much, but that man has made game-winning catch after big-time play and all these things, and it’s because he works his tail off.”

TE: The tight ends have been the stars of training camp, with veteran free agent Jared Cook hooking up regularly with Carr. Lee Smith, Clive Walford, and Gabe Holmes have looked very good, as well. “We haven’t really gotten our tight-end position going as much as I’d like,” Head Coach Jack Del Rio said. “I think we’ve really addressed that. I think you’re going to see a team that can utilize the tight-end position more in their offensive plan and attack. Jared Cook opens up a lot of possibilities and Clive being in much better shape and healthier than he’s been, probably in a while, helps.”

Defense: Second-year safety Karl Joseph shined in the preseason opener and could be positioned for a breakout season. First-round defensive back Gareon Conley remains sidelined with a shin-related injury. The specifics of his return remain murky. If Conley returns before the start of the regular season, veteran Sean Smith could be on the cutting block despite a big guaranteed salary. Smith has struggled throughout camp, and his body language was poor after coaches left him in with the third stringers in the preseason opener. Marquel Lee was up-and-down in his first start at middle linebacker, but the Raiders don’t have any other good options at the position.

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Returners: Barring a preseason injury, expect few changes in the Raiders plans at returner. Kickoffs will be handled by former All Pro Cordarrelle Patterson and punts are fielded by 2016 standout Jalen Richard.

OL: Most of the first team offensive line got the night off against the Arizona Cardinals. Interior starters Kelechi Osemele, Rodney Hudson, and Gabe Jackson were healthy scratches. Left tackle Donald Penn continues to hold out in a contract dispute. Marshall Newhouse swapped to Penn’s left side spot against the Cardinals. Vadal Alexander got the start at right tackle. Alexander played right tackle as a freshman and again as a senior at LSU, so it’s not a new challenge for him. The tackles allowed a vicious sack of backup quarterback EJ Manuel. Manuel did not stand a chance on 3rd and 10, as Arizona linebackers Josh Bynes and Kareem Martin met at the quarterback. The Raiders’ offensive line is elite with Penn in the lineup but falls precipitously without him.

Raiders Depth Chart

QB: Derek Carr, Connor Cook, EJ Manuel RB: Marshawn Lynch, Deandre Washington, Jalen Richard (PR), Elijah Hood, John Crockett, George Atkinson FB: Jamize Olawale WR: Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, Seth Roberts, Cordarrelle Patterson, Johnny Holton, Ishmael Zamora, Jaydon Mickens, Keon Hatcher, K.J. Brent, Isaac Whitney TE: Jared Cook, Clive Walford, Lee Smith, Gabe Holmes, Cooper Helfet, Ryan O′Malley LT: Donald Penn, David Sharpe, Denver Kirkland LG: Kelechi Osemele, Jon Feliciano C: Rodney Hudson RG: Gabe Jackson, Ian Silberman RT: Marshall Newhouse, Vadal Alexander, Jylan Ware K: Sebastian Janikowski, Giorgio Tavecchio NT: Justin Ellis, Eddie Vanderdoes (DT/DE), Darius Latham, Treyvon Hester, Demetrius Cherry DE: Jihad Ward, Denico Autry, Mario Edwards Jr., Fadol Brown, Branden Jackson, Jimmy Bean ILB: Marquell Lee (M), Cory James (W), Jelani Jenkins, Ben Heeney, Tyrell Adams OLB: Kahlil Mack (DE), Bruce Irvin (S/DE), Shilique Calhoun, Neiron Ball, James Cowser (S/DE), Brady Shelton, IK Enemkpali, Aldon Smith (susp) CB: David Amerson, Sean Smith, Gareon Conley, TJ Carrie (FS/PR), Dexter McDonald, Antonio Hamilton, SaQwan Edwards S: Karl Joseph (SS), Reggie Nelson (FS), Obi Melifonwu (FS/ILB), Shalom Luani, Mitchell White, Keith McGill (inj) Coaches: Head Coach: Jack Del Rio, Off Coord: Todd Downing, QB Coach: Jake Peetz, RB Coach: Bernie Parmalee, WR Coach: Rob Moore, TE Coach: Bobby Johnson, OL Coach: Mike Tice, SpecTm Coach: Brad Seely, Def

Coord: Ken Norton, DL Coach: Jethro Franklin, LB Coach: Sal Sunseri, DB Coach: Rod Woodson, DB Coach: Brent Vieselmeyer

Philadelphia Eagles

QB: Carson Wentz had a short-but-sweet preseason debut against the Packers. Wentz played one series and completed 4-of-4 passes for 56 yards and a touchdown; a perfect 158.3 passer rating. Wentz completed three straight passes to Jordan Matthews and then capped the drive with a 38-yard touchdown to rookie Mack Hollins. Nick Foles continues to miss time with a sore elbow, which gave the coaching staff an opportunity to see Matt McGloin in extended action. It was an uninspiring performance as McGloin completed 28-of-42 passes for 205 yards and an interception. The only thing worse than McGloin’s performance was 3rd stringer Dane Evans’ 3-for-8 for 22 yards and an interception in mop up duties.

RB: The running game struggled against the Packers, and hasn’t looked very good in practice, either. The running backs combined for just 33 yards on 16 carries (two yards per rush) and had absolutely no room to run. Corey Clement – a roster hopeful but nothing more – led the team with 13 yards on seven carries. Starter LeGarrette Blount rushed for nine yards on four carries, while rookie Donnel Pumphrey had five yards on four carries. Ryan Mathews finally passed his physical and was promptly released; he should find a new home quickly.

WR: Alshon Jeffery is capable of elite play, but he’s also capable of missing significant chunks of time with minor injuries. This preseason has more the latter than the former, as Jeffery has missed time with a minor shoulder injury. With Jeffery ailing and Jordan Matthews traded to the Bills, the pressure is on 3rd year Nelson Agholor and veteran Torrey Smith. Agholor went from bust to starter in a week’s time, thanks to the Matthews trade. The former USC Trojan will play the slot most of the time. Rookie Mack Hollins is out to prove he’s more than a special team’s ace. The 36-yard touchdown catch on the opening drive against the Packers was an emphatic statement, and Hollins could end up in the rotation sooner than we thought.

TE: Zach Ertz is the best receiver on the roster, and it’s not close. He and Carson Wentz have rapport, and barring injury Ertz will be among the most targeted tight ends in the league. The Eagles have compelling depth beyond Ertz, with the ageless Brent Celek and the explosive Trey Burton.

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Defense: The Eagles front seven has dominating potential, but the secondary has questions, particularly at cornerback. The team traded receiver Jordan Matthews to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for cornerback Ronald Darby. Darby was inconsistent last year but near-elite in 2015. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz acknowledges the challenge of figuring out the best defensive grouping before the start of the season: "I think [acquiring Darby] does elevate the level of competition. I think that obviously, it adds talent to the defense. But how it all works out, it's going to be our job over the next three weeks," Schwartz said. "Just like today, it's not a finished product. Obviously, it's his first day, but he's got some catching up to do in our scheme. But it's exciting to have him." The best news of the week had to be rookie Derek Barnett’s explosive emergence against the Packers. The young defensive end had four tackles including two sacks and two tackles for losses.

K: Caleb Sturgis went 1-for-2 in the preseason opener, hitting the upright on a 46-yard attempt on his miss. He hasn’t been as accurate as last year’s camp when he beat out Cody Parkey in an open competition. Sturgis was 37-for-45 in practice as of August 13, and he was 9 of 11 in the latest session, with misses from 46 and 41 yards.

Returners: The Eagles would like for rookie Donnel Pumphrey to eventually take over for Darren Sproles at punt returner as Sproles nears the twilight of his career. If his first preseason game is any indication, though, Pumphrey is not ready for the spotlight. Pumphrey attempted to field a punt when he should have called a fair catch, resulting in a risky play and an immediate tackle. Pumphrey also fumbled the second punt after calling for a fair catch.

OL: The first team offensive line struggled in their preseason loss to the Green Bay Packers. Chance Warmack got the start at left guard, but he split series with Isaac Seumalo. Both players are capable run blockers, but Seumalo has problems in pass protection. Warmack might have the lead based on his veteran experience. Several free rushers found their way to quarterback Carson Wentz; Clay Matthews had him dead to rights on the Mack Hollins’ touchdown. The line mostly did their jobs, however. It’s hard to tell if the Packers pass rushers got through because of missed assignments or bad communication. But the coaches believe the missteps are fixable. Center Jason Kelce looked good in pass protection, but he was not getting a good push in the run game. The first team unit often found themselves running sideways rather than downhill. The Eagles’ offensive line grades out as a top-tier unit, but there are signs for concern based on unexpected camp struggles.

Eagles Depth Chart QB: Carson Wentz, Nick Foles, Matt McGloin, Dane Evans RB: LeGarrette Blount (SD), Darren Sproles (3RB/KR/PR), Donnel Pumphrey (3RB/KR/PR), Wendell Smallwood, Corey Clement, Byron Marshall WR: Alshon Jeffery, Torrey Smith, Nelson Agholor, Paul Turner, Mack Hollins, Marcus Johnson, Shelton Gibson, Bryce Treggs, Greg Ward Jr. TE: Zach Ertz, Brent Celek, Trey Burton, Billy Brown, Adam Zaruba LT: Jason Peters LG: Chance Warmack, Isaac Seumalo C: Jason Kelce, Stefen Wisniewski RG: Brandon Brooks, Matt Tobin RT: Lane Johnson, Halapoulivaati Vaitai K: Caleb Sturgis DT: Fletcher Cox, Beau Allen (NT) (inj), Timmy Jernigan, Elijah Qualls, Destiny Vaeao, Gabe Wright, Connor Wujciak DE: Vinny Curry, Brandon Graham, Chris Long, Derek Barnett, Steven Means, Taylor Hart, Alex McCalister MLB: Jordan Hicks, Joe Walker OLB: Nigel Bradham (S), Mychal Kendricks (W), Kami Grugier-Hill (inj), Najee Goode, Nate Gerry, Steven Daniels CB: Ron Brooks, Ronald Darby, Jalen Mills, Rasul Douglas, Sidney Jones (inj), Patrick Robinson, Jaylen Watkins, C.J. Smith, Aaron Grymes S: Malcolm Jenkins (FS), Rodney McLeod (SS), Chris Maragos (SS), Terrence Brooks, Corey Graham Coaches: Head Coach: Doug Pederson, Off Coord: Frank Reich, QB Coach: Randy Fichtner, QB Coach: John DeFilippo, RB Coach: Duce Staley, WR Coach: Mike Groh, TE Coach: James Daniel, TE Coach: Justin Peelle, OL Coach: Jeff Stoutland, SpecTm Coach: Dave Fipp, Def Coord: Keith Butler, Def Coord: Jim Schwartz, DL Coach: Chris Wilson, LB Coach: Ken Flajole, DB Coach: Cory Undlin, DB Coach: Tim Hauck

Pittsburgh Steelers

QB: Ben Roethlisberger and Landry Jones both sat out against the Giants, giving rookie Joshua Dobbs a chance at extended action. Dobbs struggled mightily, completing 8-of-15 passes for 100 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. On Dobbs’ first interception, Darrius Heyward-Bey was streaking down the sideline, but Dobbs underthrew him. Dobbs might still be able to push Jones for the second-string job with improved play in subsequent games.

RB: The team is still waiting for LeVeon Bell to report to camp. Opinions vary on whether Bell will be able to

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perform up to his lofty standards with little-to-no preseason action. General Manager Kevin Colbert says Bell is hurting himself, while former teammate DeAngelo Williams says Bell will be the “freshest body out there” upon his return. Bell is working out in South Florida with footwork specialists on quick-twitch footwork and change-of-direction drills. Rookie James Conner hasn’t practiced in pads since July 30th due to an AC joint sprain. He should be back within a week or two. Fitzgerald Toussaint started against New York, with Knile Davis and Terrell Watson finishing out the game. Both Toussaint and Davis ripped off 11-yard carries, but otherwise looked unimpressive. Watson gained 44 yards on ten carries, including a 15-yard touchdown. He could push Davis for a roster spot after receiving praise from Mike Tomlin.

WR: The biggest story in Steelers camp this week was the clearance of Martavis Bryant to participate in all preseason activities. He’s not fully reinstated for the regular season yet but could be cleared soon. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler was impressed with how Bryant looked, corroborating stories that Bryant dedicated himself to fitness and conditioning during his suspension. Neither Antonio Brown nor Bryant played in Friday night’s preseason opener. Camp sensation Justin Hunter also sat with a minor shoulder/arm injury. JuJu Smith-Schuster did play; he looked good on two touches but suffered a concussion in the first quarter – the team’s only notable injury from the week. He is pushing for the team’s slot receiver role but is part of a jam-packed depth chart. Sammie Coates remains on the PUP List, which isn’t helping his cause. Cobi Hamilton caught two deep passes and the touchdown from Joshua Dobbs on Friday night.

TE: Tight end is a weakness for Pittsburgh. The presumed #1 Jesse James and #2 Xavier Grimble both played against the Giants, but neither did much. Grimble caught an 11-yard touchdown, but a penalty nullified it. David Johnson had a great evening blocking, which is his specialty. This group lacks playmaking ability compared to the rest of the offense.

Defense: T.J. Watt is having a great camp, and backed up his strong practice performances in the preseason game. Watt notched two early sacks. Mike Tomlin said the “pedigree is showing up” in reaction to Watt’s performance in one-on-one drills. While Watt was around the ball often, it was 2016 undrafted free agent Mike Hilton who was the star of the show. Hilton made his presence felt in many ways, looking to prove that his stellar showing in camp practices is for real. Arthur Moats also had three sacks and an interception in what was a defensive showcase for Pittsburgh (though Eli Manning didn’t play for the Giants). The team’s red zone defense was a point of strength last season and performed well on Friday night. Once Ryan Shazier

recovers from his minor injury, and James Harrison is unleashed, this unit has a chance to be among the league’s best.

Returners: Antonio Brown’s spot atop the depth chart at punt returner is a sobering indication the Steelers are having no luck replacing him in the role so that he can focus on offense. The Steelers have discussed lightening Brown's workload for years, but once the season starts they haven't been able to get away from the combination of safety and explosiveness Brown brings to special teams.

OL: Three of five starters played in the preseason win over the New York Giants. Starting left tackle Alejandro Villaneuva (concussion) and starting center Maurkice Pouncey (leg) were both given the night off. Chris Hubbard got the start at left tackle while B.J. Finney got the start at center. With two new starters, the first team did not get much push in the running game, but Hubbard looked decent in pass protection, and he could be playing himself into a swing tackle job over Jerald Hawkins. Hawkins was a highly touted prospect but suffered a shoulder injury last season, and the team has been working him at left guard since he has returned. The Steelers’ offensive line can be excellent when healthy.

Steelers Depth Chart QB: Ben Roethlisberger, Landry Jones, Joshua Dobbs RB: Le′Veon Bell, Fitzgerald Toussaint (KR), James Conner, Knile Davis, Trey Williams, Terrell Watson FB: Roosevelt Nix WR: Antonio Brown (PR), Martavis Bryant, Eli Rogers (PR), JuJu Smith-Schuster, Sammie Coates, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Justin Hunter, Cobi Hamilton, DeMarcus Ayers, Dez Stewart, Marcus Tucker TE: Jesse James, Xavier Grimble, David Johnson, Phazahn Odom LT: Alejandro Villanueva, Chris Hubbard LG: Ramon Foster C: Maurkice Pouncey, BJ Finney RG: David Decastro RT: Marcus Gilbert, Jerald Hawkins K: Chris Boswell NT: Javon Hargrave, Daniel McCullers, Lavon Hooks DE: Stephon Tuitt, Cameron Heyward, Tyson Alualu, L.T. Walton, Johnny Maxey ILB: Ryan Shazier (L), Vince Williams, Tyler Matakevich, L.J. Fort, Steven Johnson, Keith Kelsey OLB: Bud Dupree, T.J. Watt, James Harrison, Arthur Moats, Keion Adams, Anthony Chickillo, Akil Blount, Farrington Hugeunin CB: Artie Burns, William Gay, Ross Cockrell, Cameron Sutton, Coty Sensabaugh, Justin Gilbert, Senquez Golson (inj) S: Michael Mitchell (FS), Sean Davis (SS), Robert

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Golden (SS), Jordan Dangerfield (FS), Brian Allen, Jacob Hagen Coaches: Head Coach: Mike Tomlin, Off Coord: Todd Haley, RB Coach: James Saxon, WR Coach: Richard Mann, OL Coach: Mike Munchak, SpecTm Coach: Danny Smith, DL Coach: John Mitchell, LB Coach: Joey Porter, LB Coach: Jerry Olsavsky, DB Coach: Carnell Lake

San Francisco 49ers

QB: While there have been some promising signs coming out of 49ers camp with the installation of the Kyle Shanahan offense, the club sputtered out of the gate in Friday’s preseason game against the Chiefs. Brian Hoyer and the first team offense didn’t play much, and they weren’t able to make anything happen. “We knew coming in we weren’t going to get a lot of plays, so it’s obviously disappointing to only get six or seven plays and not really have any production,” said Hoyer. For what it’s worth, the Chiefs first team defense came out fired up for their first appearance in front of the home crowd in 2017. Both Matt Barkley and C.J. Beathard showed promise later in the game, and it’ll be interesting to see how the race for the backup role plays out. “We put together a few drives, and we could have been much more efficient in the red zone both with making plays and we had some penalties that stalled us,” Barkley said. “It’s been my lifelong dream to play in the NFL, and I finally get to do that," Beathard said. "So, there’s definitely some nerves. But it was awesome. It was very cool.”

RB: Carlos Hyde continues to impress. As expected, he saw limited action in the first preseason game. Shanahan wanted to get a good look at the club’s young running backs, and he was pleased with what he saw. “I thought they all did a good job,” Shanahan said. “We never got a chance to get Carlos (Hyde) in a rhythm or the whole first offense, but Joe (Williams), Matt (Breida) and Raheem (Mostert) at the end.” While the club spent a fourth-round draft choice on Joe Williams, undrafted free agent Matt Breida got the first nod once the starters left the field. Breida has been turning heads in camp, and he’s clearly in the mix for a roster spot at this point. Williams was next up against the Chiefs, and it was clear that the decision to play Breida in front of him put a little pep in his step. He ripped off a pair of 17-yard runs on his first two handoffs. Veteran Tim Hightower was held out of Friday’s tilt with a minor knee injury, but he remains penciled in as the primary backup to Hyde.

WR: Pierre Garcon and Marquise Goodwin are locked in at the top of the depth chart. For Goodwin’s part, he’s pumped to show that he’s more than just a one-trick

pony. A noted speedster, he hopes to prove that he’s much more than that in the Shanahan offense. “Just give me a chance. You don’t think I can catch? Let me show you. You don’t think I can run routes?” he said. “Well, give me an opportunity and you will see what I can do. Kyle is giving me the chance.” He’s developed chemistry with Hoyer in camp, and the signal caller sounds pretty pumped to have Goodwin at his disposal. “I know the one good thing, the good decision he made, was to come here because Kyle knows how to use guys like him,” Hoyer said. The remainder of the depth chart is still sorting itself out. Jeremy Kerley is currently listed as WR3, with Aldrick Robinson and Trent Taylor pushing for larger roles at his expense.

TE: After some early whispers that Vance McDonald’s roster spot may not be guaranteed, Shanahan praised the fifth-year pro. “Vance was a little behind the eight ball in terms of learning the offense and getting the reps. Training camp started out that way, but each week he’s gotten better. I think Vance has turned it up for us,” Shanahan said. “He’s been competing physically in the run game and the pass game. He’s also been working on special teams.” Shanahan also noted that overall competition at the position is healthy. “I believe we have six guys who have NFL traits,” he added. “We’ve got to figure out the best way to get the best package to help our 53-man roster.” We’ll have to wait and see how the depth chart shakes out as the summer progresses, but rookie George Kittle is a name to keep in mind.

Defense: Rookies Solomon Thomas and Reuben Foster saw a healthy amount of snaps against the Chiefs, and we can color Shanahan pleased with their performances. “By no means was it all perfect, but I think you guys all saw he definitely got noticed out there, caused some pressure on the quarterback,” Shanahan said about Thomas. “He ran to the ball, had a big hit on the sidelines, and I thought it was good to see.” As for Foster, there were some equally promising signs. “He wasn’t perfect by any means in all of his alignments and stuff and getting in the right gaps,” said Shanahan. “But, he showed definitely why we wanted him. He definitely flies to the ball. He’s a square hitter, a good tackler.” Foster was officially named the starting weakside linebacker following the Chiefs game.

Returners: Veteran receiver Jeremy Kerley isn't a fan of handling punt returns, but the 49ers love his reliability. Trent Taylor could replace Kerley, but it's more likely he'll be a game-day inactive to start the season. A similar dynamic is playing out on kickoffs, with reliable veteran Raheem Mostert for now holding off speedy rookie Victor Bolden.

OL: Left guard Josh Garnett underwent knee surgery last week, and coaches are hopeful he will be healthy for

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Week One. Zane Beadles has stepped up while Garnett heals and is a decent veteran option. Backup tackle Garry Gilliam and the rest of the second unit struggled in the preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The 49ers offensive line is underappreciated and grades out as a top-tier option.

49ers Depth Chart QB: Brian Hoyer, Matt Barkley, C.J. Beathard RB: Carlos Hyde, Tim Hightower, Joe Williams, Kapri Bibbs, Raheem Mostert, Matt Breida FB: Kyle Juszczyk, Tyler McCloskey WR: Pierre Garcon, Marquise Goodwin, Jeremy Kerley (PR), Aldrick Robinson, Trent Taylor, Aaron Burbridge, DeAndre Smelter, Kendrick Bourne, Louis Murphy, DeAndre Carter, Victor Bolden, BJ Johnson TE: Vance McDonald, George Kittle, Garrett Celek, Blake Bell, Logan Paulsen, Cole Hikutini, Kyle Nelson LT: Joe Staley, John Theus LG: Zane Beadles, Josh Garnett (INJ) C: Daniel Kilgore, Tim Barnes RG: Brandon Fusco RT: Trent Brown, Garry Gilliam K: Robbie Gould DT: Earl Mitchell (NT), DeForest Buckner, Ronald Blair, Quinton Dial (NT), Chris Jones, D.J. Jones (NT) DE: Solomon Thomas, Arik Armstead, Tank Carradine, Aaron Lynch, Pita Taumoepenu, Elvis Dumervil, Noble Nwachuckwu MLB: Navorro Bowman, Brock Coyle, Donavin Newsom OLB: Ahmad Brooks (S), Reuben Foster (W), Eli Harold (S/DE), Ray-Ray Armstrong (W), Dekoda Watson (S), Jimmie Gilbert (S), Jayson DiManche, Malcolm Smith (IR) CB: Rashard Robinson, Dontae Johnson, Ahkello Witherspoon, Keith Reaser, K′Waun Williams, Will Redmond, Prince Charles Iworah S: Eric Reid (SS), Jimmie Ward (FS/CB), Jaquiski Tartt (SS), Don Jones (SS), Adrian Colbert, Vinnie Sunseri (SS), Will Davis, Lorenzo Jerome Coaches: Head Coach: Kyle Shanahan, QB Coach: Rich Scangarello, RB Coach: Bobby Turner, WR Coach: Mike LaFleur, TE Coach: Jon Embree, OL Coach: John Benton, SpecTm Coach: Richard Hightower, Def Coord: Robert Saleh, DL Coach: Jeff Zgonina, LB Coach: Johnny Holland, DB Coach: Jeff Hafley

Seattle Seahawks

QB: Russell Wilson is 100 percent back from last season’s injury. Backup Trevone Boykin hasn’t been good in camp; he can turn it around a bit when the lights come on. Sunday night was one of those moments as he

scored a pair of touchdowns, one with his feet and one with his arm. While Boykin hasn’t been good in camp so far, neither has Austin Davis, who the team signed instead of Colin Kaepernick. Seattle News-Tribune writer Gregg Bell reports, “The Boykin-Davis competition has been rough so far in camp, to put it charitably. Both have been startlingly inaccurate throwing in scrimmages through nine practices.” So far, Bell says, while the backup spot is Boykin’s to lose, he’s doing nothing to win it despite the fact that Davis is not a good fit for the offense.

RB: Thomas Rawls got the start Sunday night, and Eddie Lacy came on with the second stringers. Lacy, who hit his weight requirement again, last week, has been quiet in camp while Rawls is getting the attention. It’s hard to get a read on where this battle will go during the season, and we may not have an accurate idea of the split before the regular season “dress rehearsal” in two weeks. Lacy didn’t look fantastic Sunday, gaining just 10 yards on four carries, but behind that offensive line with Boykin there, it’s not a surprise he had some struggles and Boykin ran for a big gain of 23 yards, as well. The Seahawks brought Lacy in for a reason, but Rawls has been productive before, and head coach Pete Carroll is not afraid to ignore the higher paid free agent in favor of the player he likes. As has been the case all camp, rookie Chris Carson continues to impress and added a touchdown to his resume Sunday night. When not buying his offensive line Chick-Fil-A, the rookie continues to turn heads in camp. He’s battling with Alex Collins for the third or fourth running back spot behind Rawls and Lacy, with C.J. Prosise serving as the third-down, receiving back. It’s unlikely the Seahawks keep five backs.

WR: David Moore, Amara Darboh, and Cyril Grayson continue to battle for a roster spot on the roster. Darboh has been praised by head coach Pete Carroll, especially for his willingness to block, which is a great way to earn playing time. According to 710 ESPN Seattle’s Stacy Rost, the plan is for him to learn both the X and Z spots. Grayson has the track star speed, but Moore has shown again and again that he can play at a high level.

TE: Jimmy Graham is the starter, and is having a great camp. According to ESPN’s Sheil Kapadia, he has lost twenty pounds and feels “almost a hundred times better.” Converted quarterback Tyrone Swoopes is making a case for a roster spot and is proving a fast learner. Russell Wilson called a Swoopes touchdown catch in practice “unbelievable.” Pete Carrol said, "He just seems to be making the transition. We are pretty blown away that it has been this quick."

Defense: The defense continues to do what it does best – make the offense miserable in practice. They did the

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same thing to Los Angeles Chargers backup quarterback Kellen Clemens, picking him off twice, and returning one for a touchdown. Rookie Shaq Griffin got the start at slot corner and did a solid job, and Earl Thomas looks all the way back from December’s broken leg. The team did have issues covering ageless tight end Antonio Gates, who scored on a five-yard pass from Philip Rivers, but on the whole, the unit looks good and should be among the league’s best yet again.

Returners: With Tyler Lockett healthy enough to return to action, the only real drama for Seattle's special teams is who will back him up as punt and kickoff returner. Second-year pro JD McKissic could be a candidate, although, like most return specialists with little offensive involvement, a failure to win the starting job often means an inability to make the final roster.

OL: Although the opening day starting lineup remains unsettled, the line did well against the Los Angeles Chargers. Coach Pete Carroll said that the pass protection was good, but that they “didn’t run the ball as well as (they) would have liked.” Right tackle Germain Ifedi’s had difficulty with Chargers’ defensive end Joey Bosa, but everyone in the league does. Ethan Pocic was impressive as the second team right tackle and could push Ifedi inside to guard. George Fant started at tackle, but Luke Joeckel also got time on the blind side. Oday Aboushi started the game at right guard, but Mark Glowinski is still competing hard for the spot. The Seahawks offensive line is unproven, but Tom Cable is one of the best coaches in the business, and there are compelling, athletic options that could surprise this season if the starting five can build confidence and cohesion.

Seahawks Depth Chart QB: Russell Wilson, Austin Davis, Trevone Boykin RB: Eddie Lacy, Thomas Rawls, C.J. Prosise (3RB), Alex Collins, Chris Carson, J.D. McKissic, Mike Davis, Tre Madden FB: Marcel Reece, Kyle Coleman WR: Doug Baldwin, Paul Richardson (KR) (inj), Tyler Lockett (PR), Jermaine Kearse, Amara Darboh, Tanner McEvoy, Kasen Williams, Kenny Lawler, David Moore, Rodney Smith, Darreus Rogers, Cyril Grayson TE: Jimmy Graham, Luke Willson, Nick Vannett, Marcus Lucas, Tyrone Swoopes, Steve Donatell LT: George Fant LG: Luke Joeckel, Rees Odhiambo C: Justin Britt, Joey Hunt, Ethan Pocic RG: Mark Glowinski, Oday Aboushi RT: Germain Ifedi, Justin Senior K: Blair Walsh DT: Ahtyba Rubin, Jarran Reed, Quinton Jefferson, Malik McDowell (inj), Nazair Jones, Garrison Smith, Tylor Harris, Shaniel Jenkins, Jeremy Liggins

DE: Cliff Avril, Michael Bennett, Frank Clark, Cassius Marsh, David Bass, Dion Jordan, Marcus Smith MLB: Bobby Wagner, Michael Morgan, Ronald Powell OLB: K.J. Wright (W), Michael Wilhoite, Terence Garvin (W), D.J. Alexander, Dewey McDonald, Otha Peters, Kache Palacio CB: Richard Sherman, Jeremy Lane, Shaquill Griffin, Deshawn Shead, Neiko Thorpe, Pierre Desir (FS/CB), Demetrius McCray, DeAndre Elliott, Michael Tyson S: Kam Chancellor (SS), Earl Thomas (FS) (inj), Bradley McDougald (FS), Delano Hill (SS), Tedrick Thompson (FS), Marcus Cromartie (FS), Jordan Simone (SS) Coaches: Head Coach: Pete Carroll, Off Coord: Darrell Bevell, QB Coach: Carl Smith, RB Coach: Chad Morton, WR Coach: Dave Canales, TE Coach: Pat McPherson, OL Coach: Tom Cable, SpecTm Coach: Brian Schneider, Def Coord: Kris Richard, DL Coach: Travis Jones, DL Coach: Dwaine Board, DL Coach: Clint Hurtt, LB Coach: Michael Barrow, DB Coach: Andre Curtis

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB: Describing Jameis Winston’s training camp as inconsistent would be inaccurate. He’s had spectacular moments with his deep game, and red zone reads. He’s had efficient moments during one-minute drills. And he’s had plays that head coach Dirk Koetter says, “…you would like to have back.” Despite Koetter’s balanced viewpoint, Junior Aumaniac of SB Nation says Winston has shown an improved ability to work through progressions versus staring down one receiver. Ryan Griffin will miss a few weeks with a sprained AC joint. Veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick has a shot to nail down the #2 role despite, “Some disastrous moments Friday night —nearly throwing an interception, fumbling, and throwing a pick in the red zone,” according to ESPN’s Jenna Laine.

RB: Despite some intense moments from Peyton Barber the past two weeks, Jacquizz Rodgers remains the lead back while Doug Martin serves his three-game suspension. Jenna Laine says Martin and Rodgers have been splitting first-team reps while Charles Sims is the third-down back. Barber and Jeremy McNichols are earning time with the reserves. Although some wonder about Rodgers keeping the job when Martin returns, Lane reports that according to Winston, “Martin is the guy.” Martin rededicated his training efforts in every fashion, cut his body fat to six percent and according to Lane, “His legs look fresh and he’s showing great burst. On Monday, he had an inside run where he completely juked Vernon Hargreaves, zipping by the second-year cornerback for a touchdown in the red zone.” McNichols does not appear set for early playing time. Both Koetter

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and running backs coach Tim Spencer said that the rookie needs to “get in his playbook.” Look for Rodgers to earn the bulk of the work in September with Sims and Barber spelling Rodgers. When Martin returns, expect Barber to lose playing time.

WR: DeSean Jackson and Winston have developed an early rapport during the first two weeks of camp. Winston has targeted Jackson repeatedly in one-minute drills that Pewter Report writer Mark Cook observes as the most realistic action of practices. Winston frequently targets Jackson in red zone situations with precision passes in tight windows. Chris Godwin has become one of the stars of camp and could be in the hunt for regular playing time. “There are a lot of nuances to learn along the way, but in terms of alignments and assignments he’s doing a great job,” says veteran backup Ryan Fitzpatrick. “The thing that stands out about him is that when the ball is in the air he’s going to get it. He’s made some really acrobatic plays throughout training camp and the OTAs.” “His knowledge of the game is amazing,” Mike Evans said. “As a rookie, he knows the plays better than some of the guys that have been here a while. He’s right there with me in terms of knowing this offense. It’s my third year in it and he knew it right away. That’s what is impressive. He rarely messes up.” At this point, Evans, Jackson, Godwin, and Chris Humphries are roster locks, according to Laine, who sees Donteea Dye and Josh Huff battling for the final spot.

TE: Cameron Brate remains the primary receiver on the depth chart. He’s frequently targeted in the Buccaneers one-minute drills, and Winston trusts Brate in the middle of the field. O.J. Howard is earning more targets as the preseason progresses. Howard’s most notable asset at this point is his superior run blocking.

K: The team cut Roberto Aguayo on Saturday after the second-year kicker missed a PAT and field goal on Friday night. “We saw what that movie was like last year,” Koetter told Mark Cook of the Pewter Report. “We’re just not going to go in that direction anymore.” The team will roll with Nick Folk and Zach Hocker.

Defense: Kwon Alexander could be the team’s breakout player. “He’s routinely stuffing running backs and popping receivers during training camp practices,” said Laine. Strongside (“Sam”) linebacker Kendall Beckwith continues to play well, including a five-tackle effort against the Bengals. Vernon Hargreaves is getting comfortable in his second training camp, but Brent Grimes and Jude Adjei-Barimah suffered injuries this week. Grimes’ laceration won’t be a long-term issue, but Ajei-Barimah has a patellar fracture of the right knee and could miss four months.

K: Roberto Aguayo missed a field goal and an extra point in the preseason opener, and the Buccaneers promptly waived him. Nick Folk appears to have this job all but locked up despite the team’s signing of Zach Hocker.

Returners: Receiver Adam Humphries remains a comfortable bet for the punt returner job. Rookie Ryan Smith is listed atop the depth chart at kickoff returner, but his role is far from secure.

OL: The offensive line had a decent showing in the loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Right guard J.R. Sweezy made his long-awaited debut after missing all of the last season. Sweezy was rusty but settled down quickly. Left guard Kevin Pamphile made some tough blocks, and his solid play helped left tackle Donovan Smith to look better. At right tackle, Demar Dotson had a strong game and appears healthy. The Buccaneers offensive line grades out as a lower-tier unit but their stock is trending upward. This line could finish the year much higher than it starts.

Buccaneers Depth Chart QB: Jameis Winston, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Ryan Griffin, Sefo Liufau RB: Doug Martin (susp), Jacquizz Rodgers, Charles Sims, Jeremy McNichols, Peyton Barber, Russell Hansbrough, Blake Sims FB: Austin Johnson WR: Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson, Adam Humphries (KR/PR), Chris Godwin, Josh Huff, Donteea Dye, Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, Thomas Sperbeck, Derel Walker, Bobo Wilson TE: Cameron Brate, O.J. Howard, Luke Stocker, Alan Cross, Antony Auclair, Tevin Westbroook LT: Donovan Smith LG: Kevin Pamphile C: Ali Marpet, Joe Hawley RG: J.R. Sweezy, Evan Smith RT: Demar Dotson, Caleb Benenoch K: Nick Folk, Zach Hocker DT: Gerald McCoy, Clinton McDonald, Chris Baker, Sealver Siliga, Stevie Tu′ikolovatu, DaVonte Lambert DE: Robert Ayers, William Gholston, Noah Spence, Jacquies Smith (inj), Channing Ward, George Johnson, Ryan Russell, Justin Trattou MLB: Kwon Alexander, Kendell Beckwith, Riley Bullough OLB: Lavonte David (W), Devante Bond (S), Adarius Glanton, Cameron Lynch, Jeff Knox Jr., Paul Magliore CB: Brent Grimes, Vernon Hargreaves III, Jude Adjei-Barimah, Josh Robinson, Robert McClain, Cody Riggs, Javien Elliott, Maurice Fleming, Greg Mabin, Jonathan Moxey S: Chris Conte (SS), J.J. Wilcox (FS), Justin Evans (SS), Keith Tandy (FS), Ryan Smith, Isaiah

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Johnson, Alex Gray Coaches: Head Coach: Dirk Koetter, Off Coord: Todd Monken, QB Coach: Mike Bajakian, RB Coach: Tim Spencer, TE Coach: Ben Steele, OL Coach: George Warhop, SpecTm Coach: Nate Kaczor, Def Coord: Mike Smith, DL Coach: Jay Hayes, LB Coach: Mark Duffner, DB Coach: Brett Maxie, DB Coach: Jon Hoke

Tennessee Titans

QB: Despite facing adversity in his first preseason action, Marcus Mariota showed well in limited work. He completed a few passes down the field and scrambled for a six-yard gain. The offensive line failed to stop Leonard Williams from sacking Mariota, but the young passer sprang up from the ground and completed a pass on the next play. When asked how it felt to play again for the first time since his fibula fracture, Mariota replied, “It was a blessing. It’s an honor and it’s a privilege. The recovery process was a long one, and to be able to be out there with the guys meant the world to me, and I enjoyed it.” Matt Cassel sat out with a thumb injury. Head coach Mike Mularkey confirmed that Cassel will get a chance to play in an upcoming game. His absence gave the coaching staff the opportunity to take an extended look at Alex Tanney. Unfortunately, Tanney did not impress. He was able to get the offense into scoring position only three times and threw a particularly bad interception in the red zone. He also fumbled the ball away on a sack. After reviewing the game film, Coach Mularkey observed, “It was a good experience no doubt. That’s the one thing he just lacks.” The fourth option on the depth chart, Tyler Ferguson, also lacks experience but has been getting more repetitions in practice with Cassel missing. Ferguson also got some unexpected action in the first half of the game when Alex Tanney had to leave after taking a hard hit.

RB: DeMarco Murray sat out of the game, but according to Mike Mularkey, he's close to making a return to practice. Derrick Henry started in his place, despite dealing with a tweaked ankle in practice only days before. Henry had a hard time doing much behind an offensive line that looked disjointed for most of the night but had several nice runs. Henry has continued to build on his momentum in practices, ripping off long runs against the first team defense. He seems to be proving that he could keep the running game on track if Murray were to miss time. Khalfani Muhammad and David Fluellen are battling for the #3 spot, with neither doing anything to take a clear lead. When asked what he would bring to the table if he were rostered, Muhammad answered, “The thing about me is I have speed, I’m going to be a change of pace. Come in and

do different things. Not to say I can’t go through the trenches and stuff, but we’ve got some big dudes who do that well. I’ve got to bring something different to the table.”

WR: Corey Davis missed the preseason game due to a hamstring injury, something that will likely sideline him for a good portion of the preseason. Coach Mularkey saw it as an opportunity for Eric Decker and Taywan Taylor, “It kind of moves Decker out to the outside, gets Taywan inside, which is good for both those guys to get the reps.” While Rishard Matthews and Mariota have a chemistry that they built last year, it’s Decker who seems to have developed an instant rapport with Mariota. While Decker has been the practice all-star of the group, it’s Taywan Taylor who stood out in the game. On one play, Taylor hauled in a long pass, got off the ground, and ran into the end zone for what he presumed to be a score. He was ruled down by contact upon review. Taylor said of his four-reception night, “It was surreal. Putting on a Titans jersey for the first time, it was unbelievable. It’s definitely something I will never forget.” Harry Douglas has made the most of his opportunities, both in practice and in the game. He regularly got open against the Jets second team defense.

TE: Delanie Walker’s birthday fell on the same day as the preseason contest, but Walker didn’t get any presents. He did not record a catch. A 13-yard gain was called back for offensive pass interference on Eric Decker. Mariota later locked on to Walker and threw down the seam, but Jets cornerback Buster Skrine broke up and nearly intercepted the pass. Jonnu Smith continues to build buzz in practices as the heir apparent to Walker. He may even enter the season second on the depth chart. When asked about how quickly Smith can progress, Coach Mularkey said, “I do, I think he can. Just based on this point in the practices, I really do. He’s got a lot on his plate, learning two positions. The tight ends have a lot on their plates because we move a lot. This offense is a constant work in progress as far as moving people, moving pieces, motions, shifts, personnel. He’s got a lot to learn. And he’s done a good job with keeping pace with the demands.”

Defense: As a unit, the secondary has looked better than last year, but the first team’s performance in the preseason opener was reminiscent of some of last year’s lapses. Logan Ryan gave up a 53-yard completion to Robby Anderson, who toasted Ryan on a go route. Moments later, Brice McCain left Charone Peake uncovered, and he quickly scored. Kevin Byard continued to stand out and had multiple tackles for loss when he came up to play against the run. Overall, the run defense looked much improved. Jurell Casey, DaQuan Jones, and Antwaun Woods all generated interior pressure and forced the Jets to throw the ball. The team’s coverage linebacker, Jayon Brown, had

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been getting rave reviews in practice. He carried that momentum into the Jets game, stifling New York’s tight ends in coverage and logging four tackles along the way.

Returners: While rookie Adoree Jackson spent the last week of practice making defenders miss on kickoff and punt returns, veteran Eric Weems earned the top spot on the first depth chart. Early depth charts are unofficial, and it's not uncommon for solid veterans to receive recognition out of respect for their tenure. Weems could hold onto the top spot, but Jackson is the favorite.

OL: The line struggled in their preseason loss to the New York Jets. Left guard Quinton Spain was beaten badly by Leonard Williams for a sack of starting quarterback Marcus Mariota. Mariota’s night was short, and that proved to be a smart decision, as the Titans’ gave up eight total sacks on the night. The coaches gave center Ben Garland a short night, and moved starting right guard Josh Kline over to center with the first team. Tyler Marz replaced Kline and reading between the lines, Tim Lelito’s roster spot could be in danger. The Titans’ offensive line grades out as a top-tier unit, but they need to play better in the next few weeks to maintain that ranking.

Titans Depth Chart QB: Marcus Mariota, Matt Cassel, Alex Tanney, Tyler Ferguson RB: DeMarco Murray (inj), Derrick Henry, David Fluellen, Khalfani Muhammad (KR), Akeem Judd FB: Jalston Fowler WR: Rishard Matthews, Eric Decker, Corey Davis (inj), Taywan Taylor, Tajae Sharpe (inj), Tre McBride, Harry Douglas, Eric Weems (KR), Jonathan Krause, Darius Jennings, KeVonn Mabon TE: Delanie Walker, Jonnu Smith, Philip Supernaw, Jace Amaro, Jerome Cunninghmam, Tim Semisch LT: Taylor Lewan, Dennis Kelly LG: Quinton Spain, Sebastian Tretola C: Ben Jones, Tim Lelito RG: Josh Kline, Josue Matias, Corey Levin RT: Jack Conklin, Brad Seaton K: Ryan Succop NT: Sylvester Williams, Austin Johnson, Antwaun Woods, DeAngelo Brown DE: Jurell Casey (DT), DaQuan Jones, Karl Klug, Angelo Blackson, Mehdi Abdesmad, Caushaud Lyons ILB: Avery Williamson, Wesley Woodyard, Daren Bates, Jayron Brown, Nate Palmer OLB: Derrick Morgan, Brian Orakpo, Kevin Dodd, Aaron Wallace, Josh Carraway, Erik Walden, Courtnei Brown, Justin Staples CB: Logan Ryan, Leshaun Sims, Brice McCain, Adoree Jackson (PR), Demontre Hurst, Kalan Reed, Bennett

Okotcha, D′Joun Smith, Tye Smith S: Jonathan Cyprien (SS), Kevin Byard (FS), Da′Norris Searcy (FS), Brynden Trawick, Curtis Riley Coaches: Head Coach: Mike Mularkey, Off Coord: Terry Robiskie, QB Coach: Jason Michael, RB Coach: Sylvester Croom, WR Coach: Fresman Jackson, TE Coach: Arthur Smith, OL Coach: Russ Grimm, SpecTm Coach: Steve Hoffman, Def Coord: Dick LeBeau, DL Coach: Nick Eason, LB Coach: Lou Spanos, DB Coach: Deshea Townsend

Washington Redskins

QB: The first team offense got off to an inauspicious start against the Baltimore Ravens. Kirk Cousins completed just one (of two) passes for five yards and went three-and-out in back to back drives. With Josh Doctson, Jamison Crowder and Jordan Reed sitting out, the slow start was understandable. Cousins still took the poor effort seriously. “I think it’s a wakeup call,” Cousins said. “I think it showed us that as much as we may have been making some plays in training camp and feeling good about what we were doing; I think it’s a realization that we have a long ways to go and I think that can be a good thing in the long run. It can be good to have that wakeup call. It could be the best thing we need right now.” Neither Colt McCoy (6-of-13 for 40 yards and an interception) nor Nate Sudfeld (5-of-12 for 68 yards) played well against the Ravens, either.

RB: Rumors of Rob Kelley’s demise were greatly exaggerated. Rookie Samaje Perine was among the most hyped first-year fantasy prospects following the NFL draft, but the scales have tilted back in Kelley’s favor during training camp. Perine has been inconsistent throughout camp and sealed his fate (as a backup) by fumbling and dropping a perfect pass against the Ravens. Meanwhile, Kelley has been a model of consistency and looks confident and determined to build off a good-but-not-great rookie season. Chris Thompson is entrenched as the third-down back. Matt Jones did himself no favors against Baltimore; he lost a yard on three carries. Jones could be cut in favor of Mack Brown, assuming Washington keeps four tailbacks.

WR: Although Terrelle Pryor failed to catch a pass against the Ravens, he’s been the star of camp. Pryor has been Kirk Cousins’ primary target thanks in part to Josh Doctson, Jamison Crowder, and tight end Jordan Reed missing time. The 6’5” free agent has looked sharp and will give Cousins a daunting weapon in the red zone when paired with 6’3” Reed. Doctson got off to a blistering start at camp but has been out since August 6th with a hamstring injury. The talented second-year

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receiver needs reps to build rapport with his quarterback. The backup receivers failed to make a mark against the Ravens second- and third-teamers. Robert Davis (one catch), Brian Quick (two catches), and Ryan Grant (one catch) were uninspiring.

TE: The Jordan Reed situation continues to confound. What was supposed to be a minor injury has turned into a major concern as the oft-injured Reed continues to miss valuable preseason snaps. Reed was fitted with special orthotics that are supposed to alleviate the toe pains, but Footballguys’ own Dr. Jene Bramel is concerned. “Reed's injury had previously been reported as a toe sprain. Last week, he confirmed he has been dealing with the injury since last year and today confirms he had a fracture in the foot,” said Bramel. “There is still a piece or two missing from this puzzle. But a turf toe like injury associated with a fractured bone irritated by certain types of cleats sounds very much like a sesamoid bone issue.” Vernon Davis is well positioned for a sizeable role if Reed misses time.

Defense: The defense took a hit this week when pass rusher Trent Murphy was placed on Injured Reserve. Murphy notched nine sacks last season in a part-time role. Offsetting Murphy’s injury was the impressive debut of rookie defensive lineman Jonathan Allen. Allen sacked “starter” Ryan Mallett and looked like a proven veteran. All Pro left tackle Trent Williams believes oft-injured Junior Galette is going to make an impact, now that he’s healthy. "He's so shifty, he stays low to the ground, his first step is tremendous," Williams said. "Just so much shift. It's like trying to catch a fish. Even when you think you've got him, you don't really have him." Inside linebacker Zach Brown is pushing Mason Foster and Will Compton for playing time; Brown looked sharp against the Ravens. Pro Bowl cornerback Josh Norman doesn’t like being treated with kid gloves; he would rather play in the preseason. "You get set up for that cake you think you're about to eat and then you can't devour it,” he said.

Returners: While some were concerned that an expanded role on offense could cost Jamison Crowder repetitions on special teams, the standout punt returner seems to have a solid grip on the job. Asked about the job, Crowder said, “Yeah, as of now, I’m the return guy and I plan on and I hope that I can continue to be the return guy. That’s all I’ve heard.” Head coach Jay Gruden offered no such certainty regarding the kickoff return job, “We're still trying to fight through our final kick returner and I think we'll obviously figure that out in the next couple weeks.”

OL: Washington’s offensive line played poorly in the preseason loss against the Baltimore Ravens. Right guard Brandon Scherff was victimized for a sack on the

first offensive series. Scherff is a gifted run blocker but has vulnerabilities in pass protection. Center Spencer Long had a rough night as he was high on a shotgun snap and was beaten by the Ravens’ interior defenders. Run blocking should be the strength of this unit but All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams whiffed on a block that led to tailback Rob Kelley getting stuffed. Left guard Shawn Luavao is going to be a free agent after the season, and the team is looking for a long-term replacement. Undrafted free agent Kyle Kalis appears to have leap frogged Arie Kouandijo on the depth chart behind Lauvao. This offensive line grades out as one of the best units in the NFL, but recent performances are concerning.

Redskins Depth Chart QB: Kirk Cousins, Colt McCoy, Nate Sudfeld RB: Robert Kelley, Chris Thompson (3RB/KR), Samaje Perine, Matt Jones, Mack Brown, Kenny Hilliard, Keith Marshall (IR) WR: Terrelle Pryor Sr., Jamison Crowder (PR), Josh Doctson, Ryan Grant, Maurice Harris, Brian Quick, Robert Davis, Matt Hazel, Kendal Thompson, James Quick TE: Jordan Reed (inj), Vernon Davis, Niles Paul, Jeremy Sprinkle, Derek Carrier, Manasseh Garner LT: Trent Williams, Ty Nsekhe LG: Shawn Lauvao, Arie Kouandijo C: Spencer Long, Chase Roullier RG: Brandon Scherff RT: Morgan Moses, Vinston Painter K: Dustin Hopkins NT: Stacy McGee (DE), Joey Mbu, Philip Taylor, Ondre Pipkins DE: Terrell McClain, Jonathan Allen, Ziggy Hood, Matt Ioannidis, Anthony Lanier, A.J. Francis, Brandon Banks ILB: Zach Brown, Will Compton, Mason Foster, Chris Carter, Martrell Spaight, Josh Harvey-Clemons OLB: Ryan Kerrigan (W), Preston Smith (S), Ryan Anderson (W), Junior Galette (inj), Trent Murphy (S), Zach Vigil, Lynden Trail, Peter Robertson, Houston Bates, Nico Marley CB: Josh Norman, Bashaud Breeland, Quinton Dunbar, Fabian Moreau, Kendall Fuller, Dashaun Phillips, Joshua Holsey, Tevin Homer, Jeremiah McKinnon S: Su′a Cravens (SS) (inj), D.J. Swearinger (FS), DeAngelo Hall (FS) (inj), Montae Nicholson (SS), Will Blackmon (FS), Deshazor Everett (FS), Earl Wolff (SS), Stefan McClure (SS), Fish Smithson, Josh Evans, Tim Scott Coaches: Head Coach: Jay Gruden, Off Coord: Matt Cavanaugh, QB Coach: Kevin Oconnell, RB Coach: Randy Jordan, WR Coach: Ike Hilliard, TE Coach: Wes Phillips, OL Coach: Bill Callahan, SpecTm Coach: Ben Kotwica, Def Coord: Greg Manusky, DL Coach: Jim Tomsula, LB Coach: Kirk Olivadotti, DB Coach: Torrian Gray