It’s official: preseason games are in full swing, signaling that genuine soccer season is just around the corner. Exciting times ahead!
With football at all levels in play, our perspectives on the NFL are shifting constantly. New insights emerge, while previous opinions get adjusted, with plenty of hot takes circulating.
Here at Skinny Post, Michael Peterson and RJ Ochoa are sorting through the noise to highlight the most significant happenings in the NFL, helping you stay in the loop.
What changes have you noticed so far?
The Minnesota Vikings have been in a weird spot for a while, and it’s not necessarily a bad thing—just unusual. It feels odd to say that losing Sam Darnold—yes, he’s back in the conversation—wasn’t a big deal for me. I still have lingering doubts about whether JJ McCarthy can live up to the expectations set for him.
Sure, it’s just preseason, but I feel somewhat optimistic. I doubt they’ll miss too many beats. This might not be a complete vote of confidence in McCarthy, but there’s definitely growing evidence that Kevin O’Connell is among the top coaches in the league. The Vikings seem to have a solid foundation now.
After watching the Rams seamlessly move the ball during their recent 23-22 win against the Chargers, I’ve completely reconsidered how effective Sean McVay’s unit might be.
I’m not sure if it’s a product of the system, the players, or a combination, but they executed their game plan pretty effectively, even against a Chargers defense that was supposed to be formidable.
If McVay can maximize this offensive line’s potential, I think the Rams might be one of the most underrated teams this season.
Did Browns rookie QB Dilongabriel shine in his preseason debut compared to Shedale Sanders?
We finally caught a glimpse of Gabriel, picked up by the Browns in the third round of this year’s draft, two rounds after his teammate Sanders, sparking some national skepticism.
Gabriel was sidelined during the Browns’ first preseason match, which gave Sanders ample opportunity to show his skills. While Gabriel struggled with a zero touchdown-to-interception ratio, he completed 13 of 18 passes overall.
It seems like Kevin Stefanski’s mindset is changing as more rookies get playing time. Will Sanders manage to climb from QB4 on the depth chart?
It might not happen immediately, but I’d honestly be surprised if backup Kenny Pickett, who’s been nursing an injury throughout the preseason, remains ahead of Sanders in the long run.
With Joe Flacco already named as the starter, I can’t help but think this situation isn’t as critical as some may suggest.
The final depth chart in Cleveland is anyone’s guess, but I believe Chedur has a decent chance of sticking around longer than most expect. It may take some time, but it feels like it will happen.
Who is your top fantasy sleeper this draft season?
James Connor has been a staple in the Arizona Cardinals backfield for quite some time. His continued high-level performance is something that doesn’t seem to get enough attention.
That said, I think this is the year Trey Benson really steps into the spotlight and becomes a standout in the backfield. He’s my choice.
The Vikings recently traded for former 49ers backup Jordan Mason, looking to bolster their depth behind Aaron Jones, who they don’t want to overwork at his age.
I really believe Mason could take on a significant role as a team RB1B. Once they get close to the end zone, it wouldn’t shock me if he ends up leading the backfield in touchdowns while vulturing from Jones. If he does, he could turn into quite the fantasy surprise.
Is there any real significance to the preseason?
The common view on preseason performances is that getting too worked up over them is nonsensical. But, I’m not entirely convinced that’s accurate.
Sure, preseason results don’t dictate regular season standings. That much is true. However, I think many aspects still hold value during this time.
Those exhibition games feature second- and third-string players who are striving to impress the coaching staff to secure their future. Their performances can indeed matter, especially if a starter gets injured down the line.
Moreover, if a backup outperforms another team’s backup, it indicates there’s potentially a stronger backup involved, or, at the very least, better coaching.
Even if the games aren’t “important” for playoffs, there’s still plenty to take away.
I see this stage as crucial, offering insights that can inform our understanding of teams and players.
That said, if you find yourself overly serious about preseason results, you might be taking things a bit too far. There’s a balance to strike, and I aim to navigate that space.
Ultimately, the most crucial element of the preseason remains that everyone emerges healthy. That will always be paramount.
