Week 2 of 2022 NFL preseason is within the books, and we discovered just a bit bit extra about everybody into the beginning of the common season. Certain, it’s a largely pointless train that shouldn’t be overemphasized — however we did see some standout performances that would point out depth success within the common season.
That’s actually what everybody ought to take a look at right here. Don’t fear about whether or not rookies succeed or fail, or care who really wins. Take note of guys who’re displaying expertise that would point out common season success, or which group is successful the depth battle. That’s the place preseason may also help.
No. 1: KaVontae Turpin, WR/ST — Dallas Cowboys
98 yard KR for a landing, 86 yard PR for a landing
If you would like affect, look no additional than KaVontae Turpin. The Cowboys’ rookie was completely scintillating on particular groups this week. He achieved the ludicrously uncommon double of a kick and punt return for a landing, and these weren’t brief returns both. He went from DEEP and took all of it the best way to the home.
When you think about that the majority groups play their particular groups models like regular in preseason this actually may spotlight one thing particular coming down the pike.
No. 2: Kenny Pickett, QB — Pittsburgh Steelers
6-for-7, 76 yards, 1 TD
That is much less concerning the uncooked numbers (which had been nice), and extra concerning the affect of Kenny Pickett taking part in excellently in two weeks back-to-back. The rookie confirmed poise within the pocket, a capability to guide the group, and this week he was requested to perform a little extra along with his arm.
There’s a respectable dialogue available whether or not Pickett may grow to be the Week 1 starter now, which appeared unimaginable earlier than coaching camp. I nonetheless don’t know whether or not the Steelers will throw him to the wolves like this, however because it stands Pickett seems to be like the very best QB Pittsburgh have on their roster.
No. 3: Alex Bachman, WR — New York Giants
11 receptions, 122 yards, 2 TD
If you would like a really feel good story this week: Right here it’s. Bachman is a small, depth receiver who was an afterthought within the Giants depth chart. Now he would possibly solidify himself as a part of the 53 man roster because of this week, in addition to his particular groups expertise.
A big a part of Bachman’s day was clicking with third string QB Davis Webb, who focused the receiver all day lengthy. It stored producing outcomes although, so no hurt no foul. Bachman’s 11 receptions had been probably the most he’s ever had in a recreation (together with school) and he shined with massive eye-popping numbers like above, but additionally when he made a essential particular groups deal with.
This was an enormous day for the 26-year-old, and he’ll be a participant to observe.
No. 4: T.Y. McGill, DT — Minnesota Vikings
5 tackles (2 solo), 1.5 sacks
McGill has been all around the NFL since being signed as an undrafted free agent in 2015. The Vikings at the moment are his ninth cease since coming into the league and he’s been determined to stay to a roster.
Now he would possibly really do it.
The Vikings have already got a strong line of defense, however McGill has been a standout participant this preseason. Nonetheless, towards the 49ers he actually took over, displaying a capability to eat house, and get penetration. These are all issues the Vikings desperately want, and I believe we may see him grow to be a power for the group.
No. 5: Isaiah Doubtless, TE — Baltimore Ravens
8 receptions, 100 yards, 1 TD
Who wants receivers whenever you’ve acquired tight ends? Mark Andrews is already one in all Lamar Jackson’s favourite targets, and he’s destined to be joined by rookie Isaiah Doubtless, who had an enormous recreation towards the Cardinals and confirmed unbelievable capability to select up yards after the catch.
This might be massive. Andrews will command double groups this season as the most effective TEs within the NFL, and the emergence of Doubtless will add a wrinkle to the Baltimore offense that shall be very troublesome to defend.
It’s just a little early to get too excited, however this might be an enormous 12 months for Lamar Jackson thanks to those two.
