The Colts had their priorities set in Week 3 of the NFL preseason with a focus on their starting units, particularly quarterback Anthony Richardson. However, Richardson’s performance yielded mixed results, leaving questions about his readiness for the upcoming regular season. In terms of position battles, safety seems to be a position of interest, with Nick Cross potentially securing a starting job next to Julian Blackmon. On the defensive side, Eric Johnson II made a highlight play by forcing a fumble, showcasing his potential to secure a roster spot. Meanwhile, the quarterback hierarchy remains somewhat uncertain, with Sam Ehlinger likely to maintain his role as the No. 3 quarterback, but rookie Jason Bean showing promise with a strong performance in the preseason finale.
Despite the absence of starters in Week 3 of the preseason, the Bengals had some standouts vying for roster spots. Undrafted linebacker Maema Njongmeta emerged as a frontrunner with an impressive performance, leading the team in tackles and demonstrating his value on the field. Njongmeta’s consistent play throughout the preseason makes him a strong contender for a spot on the final 53-man roster, pending competition from players at other positions.
Velus Jones Jr.’s limited playing time in the preseason finale raised some eyebrows, with questions lingering about his future with the Bears. The 2022 third-round pick has faced scrutiny over his performance, but his versatility on offense and special teams may ultimately secure him a spot on the 53-man roster. Despite some doubts, Jones Jr. has been given ample opportunities to showcase his skills, particularly in his transition to running back alongside special teams duties.
The Chiefs underwent significant changes at the wide receiver position during the offseason, adding speed and talent to their roster. With veterans like Marquise Brown and rookies like Xavier Worthy making an impact, familiar faces like Mecole Hardman and Kadarius Toney find themselves in a tight competition for roster spots. Toney, in particular, made a statement in the preseason finale with a standout performance, catching passes and showcasing his return abilities. The wide receiver battle in Kansas City is heating up, with each player fighting for their place on the team.
Week 3 of the 2024 NFL preseason provided valuable insights into the roster decisions facing teams as they approach the final cutdown deadline. While some players solidified their positions with strong performances, others raised questions about their future in the league. As teams evaluate their options and assess the strengths and weaknesses of their players, the coming days will be crucial in shaping the composition of the 53-man rosters for the upcoming regular season.
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