The NFL preseason does not count, but the performances in August matter in the evaluation process. Executives, scouts and coaches are assessing each rep, looking to size up highly drafted players or uncover a hidden gem with the potential to shine as a rookie.
Here are five players — four rookies and one player who missed most of his rookie season — I am dying to watch this preseason.
Anthony Richardson, QB, Indianapolis Colts
The football world is salivating over the talent and potential of the second-year pro. Richardson is a superstar-in-waiting, a dual-threat playmaker in an offense suited to his exceptional skills. With only four NFL games under his belt due to a season-ending shoulder injury last season, Richardson needs live reps to readjust to the speed, tempo and complexity of the pro game. As Richardson establishes his role as the team’s ultimate playmaker, head coach/offensive playcaller Shane Steichen can continue to tweak the plan to showcase his emerging star.
Keon Coleman, WR, Buffalo Bills
The big-bodied receiver could seize the No. 1 role in Buffalo’s passing game with a dominant preseason. Coleman possesses all the traits coaches and quarterbacks covet in a WR1, but the rookie must earn the trust of Josh Allen to secure his role as the “go-to-guy” in the Bills’ aerial attack. After his impressive start on the practice field, the 6-foot-4, 213-pound Coleman must carry it over to game day to convince Allen and offensive coordinator Joe Brady to force-feed him the ball.
Can the Bills survive without Stefon Diggs?
[RELATED: Bills rookie WR Keon Coleman much more than the goofball we see on viral videos]
Jared Verse, Edge, Los Angeles Rams
It will take a village to replace the production of Aaron Donald, but the Rams could lean heavily on their first-round pick to spearhead the pass rush. As a power rusher with heavy hands and a non-stop motor, Verse prioritizes force over finesse when attacking quarterbacks off the edges. With…
Source link : https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/anthony-richardson-spencer-rattler-headline-5-players-watch-preseason
Author :
Publish date : 2024-08-02 18:49:47
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
