Hello football enthusiasts! As we approach the middle of the work week, the Wednesday edition of the Pick Six newsletter brings the exciting anticipation of the final week of the NFL preseason.
The Preseason Finale Kicks Off
Tomorrow heralds the start of this critical period with a doubleheader featuring the Indianapolis Colts taking on the Cincinnati Bengals and the Chicago Bears facing off against the Kansas City Chiefs. This four-day stretch will be pivotal for players and coaches alike as they make final roster decisions ahead of the regular season kickoff.
Each of the 32 NFL teams must trim down their squad from 90 players. The Pittsburgh Steelers boast a loaded defensive front featuring veterans like Cameron Heyward, Larry Ogunjobi, Montravius Adams, and Dean Lowry. Meanwhile, the New York Giants’ wide receiver corps includes talents such as Malik Nabers, Wan'Dale Robinson, Jalin Hyatt, Darius Slayton, Miles Boykin, Allen Robinson II, and Isaiah McKenzie.
Some starters might be held out of these final exhibitions to avoid potential injuries. The Philadelphia Eagles’ camp has A.J. Brown nearly reaching 1,500 yards in consecutive seasons. DeVonta Smith is known as a reliable jump-ball and tough-catch expert, making the Eagles one to watch. The Miami Dolphins, on the other hand, boast standout players Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Incidents and Developments
The Dallas Cowboys experienced a hotel fire at their training camp in Oxnard, California. Thankfully, the Oxnard Fire Department contained the situation with no reported injuries. The Cowboys will conclude their preseason against the Los Angeles Chargers at AT&T Stadium on Saturday. While these last games are crucial, some teams prioritize player safety over practice. As Mayo succinctly put it, “There’s nothing more important than practice.”
The New England Patriots face decisions regarding rookie quarterback Drake Maye, the No. 3 overall pick. Drake Maye has shown flashes of potential but struggled in specific scenarios. The Patriots have veteran Jacoby Brissett, who is on his second stint with the team. These decisions will shape the future of the Patriots' season and potentially the league.
Controversy and Reflection
Among the more contentious stories emerging have been the comments regarding Brian Flores. Currently serving as the defensive coordinator for the Vikings, Flores has stirred up emotions with Tua Tagovailoa labeling him a “terrible person.” Addressing these comments, Flores reflected, “Look, I'm human. So that hit me in a way that wasn’t... positive for me. But at the same time, I've got to use that and say, ‘Hey, how can I grow from that?’... Do I feel like that's me? No. But how can I grow from that situation and create a world where that's not the case that anyone says that about Brian Flores?”
As we approach the final step before the NFL regular season begins, these narratives and performances will undeniably shape the rosters and the story arcs leading into what promises to be a thrilling season. From roster cuts to unexpected developments, every moment counts, and every play could define a player's career or a team's season.