As the NFL preseason gets underway in August, teams are preparing for what promises to be a thrilling regular season. With new rookies stepping onto the field, fresh trades reshaping rosters, and veteran players fiercely competing for starting spots, the preseason serves as an important preview of the upcoming year. Whether it’s the emergence of a rookie quarterback or the battle for depth chart positions, the next few weeks will provide crucial insights into what fans can expect for the 2024 season. In this article, we’ll explore the top storylines, players to watch, and the key battles that could determine how the season unfolds.
Key Rookies and First-Year Players to Watch
The NFL preseason is often the first chance for fans to see how the newest wave of talent will translate into the league. With the 2024 NFL Draft bringing a wealth of promising players, certain rookies are expected to make a splash right away. Here are some of the most anticipated first-year players to watch:
Caleb Williams (QB, Carolina Panthers)
The number one overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Caleb Williams, is expected to be the face of the Panthers’ franchise for years to come. While the preseason will not be his full debut, all eyes will be on how he performs in his first few outings. With impressive college numbers and a style that’s been compared to Patrick Mahomes, Williams has the potential to make an immediate impact.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR, Seattle Seahawks)
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, selected 20th overall by the Seattle Seahawks, is expected to be a major weapon in the team’s passing game. With DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett already in place, the addition of Smith-Njigba gives Seattle a potent trio. Watch for his ability to develop chemistry with quarterback Geno Smith in the preseason.
Bijan Robinson (RB, Atlanta Falcons)
Robinson, one of the most highly touted running backs to enter the league in years, joins a Falcons offense known for its heavy rushing attack. How Robinson adapts to the NFL’s physicality and whether he can elevate the Falcons’ offense could be one of the most exciting storylines to track throughout the preseason.
Biggest Position Battles
While some positions are already locked down, many others will be fiercely contested during training camp and the preseason. Key battles could shape the depth chart, with certain players needing to prove themselves in these critical games.
Quarterback Controversies
- San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers’ quarterback situation remains uncertain with Brock Purdy recovering from injury and Trey Lance looking to bounce back. Will Purdy reclaim his starting role, or will Lance shine in preseason action to stake his claim to the job? The battle for the starting QB spot in San Francisco will be one of the most exciting to watch.
- Tennessee Titans: Ryan Tannehill is facing competition from rookie Will Levis, and this preseason will provide an early indication of whether Levis can unseat the veteran or if Tannehill will continue as the starter for another year.
Running Back Room Shakeups
- Miami Dolphins: Miami’s backfield will see competition among several talented running backs, including Raheem Mostert and Devon Achane. Achane, a rookie, could be poised for a breakout season, so how he performs in the preseason could decide whether he secures significant playing time.
- Dallas Cowboys: Tony Pollard will likely remain the lead back, but the Cowboys have a deep stable of running backs, including rookie Deuce Vaughn. Preseason performances will determine how much of a role Vaughn and others could play behind Pollard.
Defensive Line Showdowns
- Chicago Bears: Chicago has heavily invested in improving its defense, and much of their progress will depend on how well the defensive line performs. Preseason games will give us an early look at how key acquisitions like free agent Yannick Ngakoue mesh with returning players such as Trevis Gipson and rookie Jalen Carter.
New Coaching Hires and Player Acquisitions
Another huge storyline to follow in the preseason is how new coaching hires and player acquisitions will shape team strategies. Many teams have hired fresh faces to lead their organizations, and the preseason is the first opportunity to see how these new systems will function in game-like scenarios.
Frank Reich and the Carolina Panthers
After a tumultuous few seasons, the Panthers hired Frank Reich as head coach, and his leadership will be pivotal in Caleb Williams’ development. The preseason will give fans the first glimpse of how Reich’s offensive schemes will work with the rookie quarterback, as well as how his coaching will impact the rest of the team.
Sean Payton and the Denver Broncos
In Denver, former Super Bowl-winning coach Sean Payton will try to restore the Broncos to relevance after a disappointing 2023 season. Payton’s experience and track record with quarterbacks like Drew Brees will be key for Denver’s offense. Preseason will allow us to see how Payton plans to integrate new offensive weapons and improve quarterback Russell Wilson’s performance.
Detroit Lions: The Growth Continues
After an impressive 2023 campaign, the Detroit Lions will look to build on their success under coach Dan Campbell. The addition of key free agents and the continued development of young stars like Aidan Hutchinson means preseason games will be critical in establishing team cohesion and identifying any holes in the roster.
The Importance of Preseason for Injury Management and Depth Chart Decisions
While the preseason offers a chance for rookies and new players to shine, it’s also crucial for teams to manage player health and finalize their depth charts. Injuries can derail entire seasons, so preseason games serve as an opportunity to evaluate players’ readiness without overextending key starters.
Many teams will use the preseason to give veterans limited playing time, protecting them from unnecessary injuries while evaluating younger players or those returning from injuries. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, who boast a deep roster, will look to ensure their stars stay healthy and assess their depth at positions where they have less experience.
In addition, roster decisions are often made based on how well players perform in game situations. Coaches will be looking for consistency, whether it’s a backup quarterback showing composure under pressure or a defensive back proving they can handle opposing offenses. The preseason serves as a final audition before the regular season begins, and it’s critical for players to make their case.
Conclusion
As the NFL preseason 2024 unfolds, there’s much to look forward to. The battles for starting positions, the development of rookies, and the adjustments to new coaching staffs will all play a role in shaping the upcoming season. While the preseason may not be the final word on how the season will unfold, it provides a crucial first look at the teams and players who could be poised to make a big impact. For fans and analysts alike, it’s an exciting time to gauge who will rise to the occasion and emerge as breakout stars before the regular season begins.
