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Training Camp UpdateVolume 11, Issue 4 – 8/31/16

We say it all the time because it's true: Things change fast in the NFL. And they never change faster than they do in August. And nobody covers those changes and team situations more comprehensively than Footballguys.com. Our Training Camp Updates come out once a week in August and our staff covers everything you need to know about every NFL team. This is the deep stuff that gives you an edge. We're not going to rave that Cam Newton, Antonio Brown or even David Johnson is great. You already know that.

Read our weekly updates to get the inside scoop on how the Bears running backs are practicing and which player is the best bet for your draft. Or the Saints WR corps. Or which Browns receiver is shining in practice. It's the kind of information that will put you over the edge and on the way to dominating your draft.

Happy reading and let's have a great 2016 season,

Joe Bryant and David DoddsOwners, Footballguys.com

Follow our Footballguys Training Camp crew on Twitter: @FBGNews, @theaudible, @football_guys, @fbg_dodds, @sigmundbloom, @cecillammey, @JayBWood, @JeneBramel, @fbgchase, @MattWaldman, @bobhenry, @cianaf, @Andrew_Garda, @JeffHaseley, @Maurile, @AdamHarstad, @a_rudnicki, @kylewachtel, @mpwimer, @draftdaddy, @JamesBrimacombe, @Hindery, @RyanHester13, @Bischoff_Scott, @cm_feery, @PhilTWR, @xfantasyphoenix

Arizona Cardinals

QB: Carson Palmer hasn't had a good preseason, and those struggles continued against the Texans. Palmer completed 5-of-9 passes for 64 yards, zero touchdowns and two interceptions. Luckily, head coach Bruce Arians isn’t bothered by Palmer’s preseason stats. Arians pulled Palmer at the start

of the second quarter; a move that was telegraphed by TV announcer Troy Aikman. Palmer was pulled after an interception that was more a testament to the Texans defense than a condemnation of Palmer. Of greater concern than the interception was the big hit Palmer took to the head after trying to chase down the ball carrier. Drew Stanton came in and looked lost initially. Stanton hasn't played well through the preseason either but Arians has assured him of his spot as the team's backup. Matt Barkley was already in pole position for the third spot and the fact Jake Coker didn't make the trip to Houston cements the pecking order.

RB: It was just another week in the life of David Johnson. The Cardinals have run out of platitudes for Johnson so at this point it's all about staying healthy. He scored a touchdown on a short-yardage run that featured an impressive cut against the Texans. Johnson finished his dress rehearsal with six carries for 28 yards (4.7 per rush) and the aforementioned touchdown. Chris Johnson got carries with the first team offense and ran well again. He's not going away regardless of how Johnson performs. Andre Ellington came in as the third option and also ran well. The Cardinals are stacked at running back with a very clearly defined depth chart and usage layout. The biggest story from the trio has been Ellington's struggles on special teams; he has dropped a few punts. With three dynamic runners, Stepfan Taylor should have the edge over Kerwynn Williams for the fourth running back spot. Taylor is better in pass protection and offers more on special teams. Williams is a better runner so he could offer some low-level value in a trade come cut down day.

WR: John Brown finally returned to practice this week but the signs still aren't good. Brown left practices twice this week, suffering from headaches. He didn't play in the third preseason game and even if the Cardinals want to paint it as precautionary, it's been more than three weeks since he was concussed. If he's not active in Week 1 it shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. Larry Fitzgerald, on the other hand, will be ready to go by Week 1. Fitzgerald has been dealing with a knee injury and didn't play in the third preseason game but he did say he would have played if it was a regular season game. Without Fitzgerald and Brown in the lineup, the Cardinals had a clear hierarchy in their offense. Jaron Brown, J.J. Nelson and Michael Floyd all played with the starting offense. Brown has impressed as a receiver this preseason, but it’s his blocking that stood out against the Texans. He was particularly impressive blocking Jadeveon Clowney on one play. Jaron has played so well it would be a surprise if the Cardinals didn't find a way to keep him involved during the regular season.

TE: The tight end position isn't going to be a fantasy hot spot. Troy Niklas has been the best tight end through training camp, but he’s not a world beater. Jermaine Gresham is healthy now and fits what Arians wants from the position perfectly. Gresham had an impressive reception against the Texans when he fought forward for a first down. Darren Fells played with the first team against Houston and had the biggest play of the

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game; a 40-yard pass over the middle of the field. Expect all three tight ends to rotate based on the situation/play call.

Defense: Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu didn't play against the Houston Texans. That left Brandon Williams and Justin Bethel as the starters outside. Bethel was the one that the Texans went after. He was repeatedly exposed by Will Fuller and gave up a touchdown late in the second quarter when he failed to locate the football. The second cornerback spot is proving to be problematic for the Cardinals. Bethel has just returned from injury but has proven to be limited in the past. The Cardinals will give Williams every opportunity to establish himself as the starter across from Peterson. While Peterson and Mathieu sat, Mike Jenkins played and was hurt. His knee gave out from beneath him as he chased DeAndre Hopkins over the middle of the field. Jenkins slammed his fist into the ground in an apparent acceptance that it was a serious injury. Arians had said ahead of the game that Jenkins was in contention for the second cornerback spot, which seems unlikely now. Defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche returned from injury and impressed throughout the week’s practices. He still has considerable ground to make up. Nkemdiche seems like the perfect candidate to get extended time during the fourth preseason game so he is ready for Week 1. Alex Okafor decided to forego surgery for his torn biceps. Okafor will play through the pain to be available for the regular season.

Returners: In something of a shocking development, the Cardinals’ most recent depth chart included Andre Ellington— long in the mix at kickoff returner— at #1 on punt returns, too. Given that J.J. Nelson held that position as recently as a week ago, and given that Ellington has very little experience fielding punts, this should be taken with a grain of salt as the Cardinals see what they have on special teams.

OL: Good news for the Cardinals’ offensive line as most onlookers believe new starting right tackle D.J. Humphries had his best effort of the preseason during Week Three against Houston. Humphries had struggled in previous contests and his development is a big relief. The quarterbacks have not been playing well but the pass protection has not been the problem. Veteran center A.Q. Shipley is another new starter, after holding off rookie Evan Boehm this preseason. The Cardinals’ offensive line grades out as a top-tier unit, behind the strength of the run blocking tandem on the left side of Jared Veldheer and Mike Iupati.

Cardinals Depth ChartQB: Carson Palmer, Drew Stanton, Matt BarkleyRB: David Johnson, Chris Johnson, Andre Ellington, Kerwynn Williams (KR), Stepfan Taylor, Jared BakerWR: Larry Fitzgerald, Michael Floyd, John Brown (KR), Jaron Brown, J.J. Nelson (PR), Brittan Golden, Jaxon Shipley, Damon Powell, Chris Hubert, Jeff Beathard

TE: Troy Niklas, Darren Fells, Jermaine Gresham, Ifeanyi Momah, Hakeem VallesLT: Jared VeldheerLG: Mike Iupati, Taylor BoggsC: AQ Shipley, Earl WatfordRG: Evan MathisRT: DJ Humphries, Cole TonerK: Chandler CatanzaroNT: Rodney Gunter, Red Bryant, Xavier Williams, Corey Peters,Olsen PierreDE: Calais Campbell, Frostee Rucker, Robert Nkemdiche, Ed Stinson, Josh Mauro, Jason BabinILB: Deone Bucannon (SS), Kevin Minter, Donald Butler, Alani Fua,Zack Wagenmann, Kenny Demens, Daryl Washington (susp)OLB: Chandler Jones, Markus Golden, Kareem Martin, Alex Okafor (inj), Shaq Riddick, Lamar LouisCB: Patrick Peterson (PR), Justin Bethel, Brandon Williams, Harlan Miller, Alan Ball, Joel Wilkinson, Ronald Zamort, Trevon Hartfield, Eli Bouka, Mike Jenkins (inj)S: Tyrann Mathieu (FS/CB), Tony Jefferson (SS), Tyvon Branch (FS),D.J. Swearinger (SS), Marqui Christian, Chris Clemons, Matthias Farley

Atlanta Falcons

QB: The depth chart is well established. Matt Ryan (12-of-22 for 129 yards passing and an interception at Miami Thursday night) is the starter and Matt Schaub (10-of-11 for 109 yards) is the backup. Sean Renfree was released on Saturday leaving Matt Simms (didn't play Thursday) as the third stringer.

RB: The Falcons struggled to run the ball on Thursday night at Miami, with 31 yards on 15 carries (2.1 per carry). “The run game was an area where we really wanted to get a push on,” head coach Dan Quinn said. “So for us not having success in the run game early was a significant one. Just because we were behind some early and without time of possession, I think we only had six or seven runs in the first half. That's for sure not our style or how we want to play.” Devonta Freeman was in the game for just a handful of carries and ran five times for 8 yards while catching two receptions for 10 yards. He gave way, as expected, to Tevin Coleman who struggled (6 yards rushing and a 5-yard loss on his lone catch). While Freeman appears set as the starter, he and Coleman both saw significant work this preseason. Presumptive #3 Terron Ward's ankle injury has kept him sidelined for a couple of weeks (he didn't play in the second or third preseason game) leaving Brandon Wilds and Cyrus Gray to handle the third-team reps over the past two weeks.

WR: According to D. Orlando Ledbetter's depth chart, the starters are Julio Jones and Mohamed Sanu, while Justin Hardy and Aldrick Robinson are the primary backups. Eric

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Weems and Nick Williams are the fifth and sixth receivers, respectively. Hardy tweaked an ankle versus Miami, but the injury isn't considered serious as he returned to practice on Sunday. J.D. McKissic and Devin Fuller are on the bubble. McKissic has value as a return man, which bolsters his roster chances. “It's preseason,” Jones said after the game. “I did a couple of series, and I was just done. I could have went, but I was just done. They didn't need to see any more out of me or even try to risk something because its preseason, and it really doesn't count. We just wanted to get the young guys in there and get them some good looks.”

TE: As expected, Jacob Tamme (two receptions for 16 yards) and Austin Hooper (five receptions for 50 yards) are the #1 and #2 tight ends, respectively. Levine Toilolo is the 3rd option while D.J. Tialavea is hoping the Falcons keep four tight ends on the final roster. Arthur Lynch was released on Saturday.

Defense: Starting rookie strong safety Keanu Neal, a first-round pick (17th overall) in the 2016 draft, needs to have knee surgery and will miss three to four weeks. Kemal Ishmael is listed as second-string and likely will start in place of Neal, but Ishmael has missed time due to a shoulder injury. The Falcons may need to start another rookie, Damian Parms, who took over after Neal's injury on Thursday. More likely, the Falcons will start veteran Dashon Goldson who was signed over the weekend. Defensive coordinator Richard Smith came to embattled cornerback Desmond Trufant’s defense, “What's happening is, he had the one throw against him (versus Cleveland) and I know he was disappointed in that. But what I'm impressed with, and I told the defense, this guy is a veteran football player and you watch the way that he practices and competes... He takes every one of his snaps. He's not like hey, 'I'm big-time, and I can just lay off.' He works at it hard.”

PK: The Falcons have a genuine kicker competition, or at least a decision to make after Matt Bryant missed two games with leg tightness. Shayne Graham was signed recently and made both of his field goal attempts in the third preseason game, including a 53-yarder. Bryant returned to practice on Sunday, but he will need to stay healthy through the week and the fourth preseason game to retain his job.

Returners: Rookie Devin Fuller hoped to make the team as a return specialist, but a shoulder injury in Week Three of the preseason might have ended those hopes. Undrafted free agent J.D. McKissic has impressed the coaches as a returner and is likely the primary beneficiary, as the injury greatly increases his chances of making the team.

OL: Even though coaches are saying positive things about the Falcons’ pass protection, the running attack remains a concern. The team keeps trying alternatives at right guard in place of Chris Chester, and in the last game against Miami, Ben Garland got the most opportunity. Even though the new look interior graded out well, look for Chester to retain this

job as the season starts. The Falcons grade out as a top tier line.

Falcons Depth ChartQB: Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Matt SimmsRB: Devonta Freeman (3RB), Tevin Coleman (KR), Terron Ward, Brandon WildsFB: Patrick DiMarcoWR: Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu, Justin Hardy, Aldrick Robinson, Eric Weems (KR/PR), Nick Williams, Jordan Leslie, David Glidden, Devin Fuller (IR)TE: Jacob Tamme, Austin Hooper, Levine Toilolo, D.J. TialaveaLT: Jake MatthewsLG: Andy Levitre, Mike PersonC: Alex MackRG: James Stone, Chris ChesterRT: Ryan Schraeder, Tom ComptonK: Matt Bryant, Shayne GrahamDT: Tyson Jackson, Grady Jarrett (NT), Ra′Shede Hageman, Jonathan Babineaux, Joey Mbu (NT)DE: Derrick Shelby, Brooks Reed, Dwight Freeney, Adrian Clayborn, Malliciah Goodman, Brandon WilliamsMLB: Deion Jones, Paul WorrilowOLB: Vic Beasley (S), De′Vondre Campbell (W), Courtney Upshaw (S), Sean Weatherspoon (S), Philip Wheeler, Laroy Reynolds, Tyler StarrCB: Desmond Trufant, Robert Alford, Phillip Adams, Jalen Collins (susp), Brian Poole, CJ Goodwin, Demarcus Van DykeS: Ricardo Allen (FS), Keanu Neal (SS) (inj), Kemal Ishmael (SS),Dashon Goldson, Robenson Therezie (FS), Damian Parms (SS),Akeem King

Baltimore Ravens

QB: Joe Flacco made his preseason debut Saturday night on plan and on schedule. He had been practicing throughout camp, and the debut confirms that his torn ACL is fully healed. He wore a knee brace that he plans to wear all season, but it shouldn’t hamper him. Flacco has been telling everyone he and Mike Wallace were developing rapport, and it was evident against the Lions. Flacco missed Wallace on the opening play, but connected with him multiple times thereafter. Flacco ended his preseason debut 11-of-16 for 94 yards (5.9 per attempt) with no picks or touchdowns. Ryan Mallett has looked like one of the league’s best backups this preseason and would be a compelling alternative to Flacco in the event of another injury. Mallett completed 10-of-15 passes for 112 yards and a touchdown against the Texans second teamers.

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RB: This position group is as hard to sort out as any in football. How will it shake out? "The next couple of weeks will give us a better idea," offensive coordinator Marc Trestman said in advance of the third preseason game. Justin Forsett is still the starter, but the team has shown a reluctance to use him in specialty situations such as goal line and third down. Terrance West was a camp darling early, but he doesn’t have a preseason run longer than nine yards. Javorius Allen is probably a better receiver than rusher, and Kenneth Dixon has been unspectacular in any fashion and left Saturday’s game with a leg injury. He was subsequently diagnosed with a torn MCL and will miss approximately four weeks. Against the Lions, Forsett started, Dixon was the second man in and got the first short yardage attempt on a 3rd-and-1. West got the next 3rd-and-1 in the middle of the first quarter. Allen didn’t make his way into the box score until the second half after being the second man on the field in each of the first two preseason games. We’re expecting Forsett as the starter, West as the goal-line specialist and Allen as the 3rd down option.

WR: Steve Smith returned to practice last week but was ruled out two days before Saturday’s game. Breshad Perriman also came off the PUP List last week. He wasn’t ruled out as early as Smith, but he also did not play. Per the article linked above, Joe Flacco said he has thrown few passes to Perriman this offseason. Trestman had great things to say about Perriman and his development, highlighting the receiver’s speed, size, hands, and concentration. Mike Wallace caught three passes for 37 yards on the team’s first two drives. In spite of the progress, there is room for improvement as we saw in a miscommunication on 4th down. Kamar Aiken played with both the first and second teams; he’s unquestionably a critical component to the game plan. It might take both Smith and Perriman returning to full health – something that’s far from guaranteed – to get Aiken off the field. Jeremy Butler continued his hot preseason, scoring another touchdown and having another negated by penalty. Butler has just missed making the roster each of his first two seasons, but he is making the team’s decision very difficult this time around. As always, it’s a numbers game between Perriman, Wallace, Smith, Aiken, Butler, and rookie Chris Moore. With Benjamin Watson’s season-ending injury, the team may have room to keep an extra receiver depending on plans for the tight end position.

TE: On the first play from scrimmage Saturday night, Benjamin Watson ruptured his Achilles’ tendon and was lost for the season. With Dennis Pitta still nursing a fractured finger, the next man up was Crockett Gillmore. Pitta’s injury history combined with Gillmore’s blocking ability could make this a tight end-by-committee. Second-year Maxx Williams – a second-round pick in 2015 – will also make the team. It appears he’s behind at least Gillmore at this point, with Pitta being more of an unknown. Converted wide receiver Darren Waller continued his solid preseason, showing athleticism on a 28-yard catch and run. He’s suspended for the first four games, but may be a factor later in the year.

Defense: Terrell Suggs made his preseason debut, looking every bit like his old self. He stuffed a run play on Detroit’s first play from scrimmage by beating a tight end and flattening Ameer Abdullah. He’ll need to be his typically disruptive self all season as the back half of the defense is inconsistent and lacks talent. Fellow edge rusher Elvis Dumervil did not play Saturday but the team still expects him to be ready for Week 1. The Ravens got a shot in the arm from rookie Matt Judon, who has a sack in each of the team’s preseason games – the latest against Detroit also being forced fumble. He beat Detroit’s starting right tackle (Riley Reiff) on the play.

The defense as a whole looked better Saturday night, stuffing Detroit’s running game and holding Matthew Stafford and the passing game in check despite missing cornerback-turned-safety Ladarius Webb. Despite practicing all week, the projected starter at free safety was held out for precautionary reasons.

Returners: With an injury to rookie running back Kenneth Dixon, the Ravens’ already messy return situation just got messier. Stephen Houston and Terrance West both joined Dixon on kickoff returns last week, but that doesn’t rule out the team signing a free agent.

OL: With John Urschel out with a contusion, rookie Alex Lewis filled in well, and could be making a push for the starting left guard position. Should he win the job, the Ravens’ will be starting two rookies on the left side. Rookie left tackle Ronnie Stanley stood up to all pass rushers in the Week Three preseason win over the Detroit Lions. Stanley has been lights out this preseason and it’s not a stretch to call him the best rookie lineman in football this season. At right tackle, Rick Wagner continues to do a stalwart job and is certainly motivated to perform well in his contract year. Marshal Yanda remains one of the best guards in the game, and in general the offensive line grades out on the cusp of top tier. As the rookies mature, this unit could be very good.

Ravens Depth ChartQB: Joe Flacco, Ryan Mallett, Josh JohnsonRB: Justin Forsett, Javorius Allen, Terrance West, Kenneth Dixon (inj), Lorenzo Taliaferro (PUP)FB: Kyle JuszczykWR: Steve Smith (inj), Kamar Aiken, Mike Wallace, Breshad Perriman, Chris Moore (KR), Michael Campanaro, Jeremy Butler,Chris Matthews, Keenan Reynolds (RB/KR), Kaelin Clay, Daniel BrownTE: Maxx Williams (inj), Crockett Gillmore, Dennis Pitta (inj), Darren Waller (susp), Nick Boyle (susp), Benjamin Watson (inj)LT: Ronnie Stanley, James HurstLG: John Urschel, Alex LewisC: Jeremy ZuttahRG: Marshal Yanda, Vlad DucasseRT: Rick Wagner, Ryan JensenK: Justin Tucker

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NT: Brandon Williams, Kapron Lewis-MooreDE: Timmy Jernigan, Lawrence Guy, Carl Davis, Willie Henry, Matt Judon, Brent Urban, Nordly Capi, Bronson Kaufusi (IR)ILB: C.J. Mosley, Zachary Orr, Arthur Brown, Albert McClellanOLB: Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil (S), Za′Darius Smith (DE),Kamalei Correa, Chris Carter, Brennen Beyer, Victor OchiCB: Jimmy Smith (inj), Shareece Wright, Kyle Arrington (inj), Jerraud Powers, Will Davis, Tavon Young, Maurice Canady, Julian Wilson,Sheldon Price, Jumal Rolle (inj)S: Eric Weddle (FS), Lardarius Webb (SS/PR), Kendrick Lewis (FS),Anthony Levine (SS), Terrence Brooks (FS), Matt Elam (SS),Jermaine Whitehead (FS), Will Hill (susp)

Buffalo Bills

QB:  The Bills went against convention and chose not to use the 3rd preseason game as a dress rehearsal for the regular season. Most starters were held out or made a brief cameo appearance against Washington on Friday night. Tyrod Taylor got the start, but couldn’t get much going and was pulled quickly after taking a sack and another big hit in just two series of work. Rookie Cardale Jones was kept out with shoulder soreness, so that gave backup EJ Manuel a chance to play for nearly the entire game. While the final numbers for Manuel didn’t appear impressive (21-of-39 for 221 yards and an interception), he actually played well considering the protection issues and dropped passes.

RB: LeSean McCoy was held out against Washington for precautionary reasons, and potential backup Mike Gillislee also missed the game with a concussion. Reggie Bush got the start, and showed his vintage burst while picking up 17 yards on just 3 carries. Rookie Jonathan Williams came on with the 2nd string offense and saw plenty of time until leaving the game early with a rib injury (which was later reported to be non-serious). He wasn’t able to find much running room except for a big play early in the 2nd half when he exploded for a 37-yard touchdown run. Daniel Herron served as a 3rd down back and was effective out of the backfield with 5 catches on 5 targets. James Wilder closed out the game, but didn’t get a chance to show much as the Bills were in catchup mode. Going into the season, it’s likely that McCoy will see the bulk of the work when healthy, and the Bills will move to more of a committee approach if he gets hurt.

WR: Sammy Watkins made his preseason debut against Washington, but was held without a catch on 2 targets in a very brief appearance. Robert Woods started opposite him and was also held catchless as the Bills pulled their starters very quickly. Marquise Goodwin was held out while recovering

from a concussion, so that created plenty of opportunity for the backup receivers to showcase their skills. Once again, it was Walt Powell who stood out with 5 catches on a game-high 10 targets. He should have a strong chance to make the roster. Greg Little was also active but had a potential game-winning touchdown called back due to offensive pass interference; unfortunately it wasn’t enough to make the final roster. Greg Salas and Dezmin Lewis appear to have landed the final roster spots.

TE: As with most key players, Charles Clay didn’t play versus Washington. He dealt with a back injury early in camp, but played in the 2nd preseason game and should be ready for the regular season. One of the players fighting for a backup job, Chris Gragg, suffered a torn ACL in the game and will be lost for the season.

Defense: It was impossible to read much into the third preseason game as the Bills decided to rest their entire starting secondary, along with linebackers Preston Brown and Jerry Hughes, and defensive tackle Kyle Williams. They had some positive news as veteran OLB Manny Lawson returned to action after recovering from a torn pectoral muscle and he’ll provide some help on the edges. After a slow start, Washington quarterback Kirk Cousins found his rhythm and picked the Bills apart for three straight touchdown passes in the 2nd quarter. Again, this game was used more to get a look at the backups and figure out who fills out the 53-man roster. Overall, the defense has looked very strong in camp and during the first two preseason games, so they should be significantly better than they were a year ago.

PK: Dan Carpenter hit 3-of-3 field goals in the loss to Washington, including two from over 50 yards. He also made his one extra point attempt, where he struggled going 34-for-40 last year. He wasn’t on the firmest footing after last season, but he’ regained his team’s confidence entering 2016.

Returners: The Bills seem poised to let Reggie Bush handle as many returns as his 31-year-old body can handle. Should he show any signs of faltering, Walt Powell is the next man up on both punts and kickoffs.

OL: The offensive line was productive in run blocking against Washington. Even without left tackle Cordy Glenn (who returned to practice over the weekend) the first team had their way with the opposing defense during the first half. Good news for tackle depth as Cyrus Kouandijo has really stepped up in Glenn’s absence and the team also got good production out of Seantrel Henderson on the second team. Behind center Ryan Groy and right guard Cyril Richardson the line opened up a huge hole for Jonathan Williams’ 37-yard touchdown scamper. The Bills’ currently grade right on the edge between top tier and mid-tier. They should be an excellent run blocking unit this season.

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Bills Depth ChartQB: Tyrod Taylor, EJ Manuel, Cardale JonesRB: LeSean McCoy, Reggie Bush, Jonathan Williams, Mike Gillislee (inj), James Wilder Jr., Dan Herron, Cierre Wood, Dri ArcherFB: Jerome Felton, Glenn GronkowskiWR: Sammy Watkins, Robert Woods, Marquise Goodwin, Greg Salas, Dezmin Lewis, Jarrett Boykin, Walter Powell, Kolby Listenbee (res), Marcus Easley (PUP)TE: Charles Clay, Jim Dray, Nick O′Leary, Blake Annen, Jacob Maxwell, Chris Gragg (inj)LT: Cordy Glenn, Jordan MillsLG: Richie IncognitoC: Eric WoodRG: John Miller, Cyril RichardsonRT: Cyrus Kouandijo, Seantrel HendersonK: Dan CarpenterDT: Marcell Dareus (NT) (susp), Kyle Williams, Leger Douzable,Casey Walker (NT), Brandon DeaderickDE: Adolphus Washington, Corbin Bryant, Lavar Edwards, Jerel Worthy, Cedric ReedILB: Preston Brown (M), Zach Brown, Brandon Spikes, Jamari Lattimore, Kevin Reddick, Reggie Ragland (inj)OLB: Jerry Hughes, Manny Lawson (S), Kroy Biermann (S),Lorenzo Alexander (S), Randell Johnson, Lerentee McCray, Max Valles, Shaq Lawson (PUP), IK Enemkpali (IR)CB: Stephon Gilmore, Ronald Darby, Nickell Robey, Mario Butler,Javier Arenas, Sterling MooreS: Aaron Williams (FS), Corey Graham (SS) , Robert Blanton (FS),Duke Williams (FS), Jonathan Meeks (SS), Johnathan Dowling

Carolina Panthers

QB: Cam Newton and the Panthers' offense looked rough around the edges versus New England. “In his eight first-half series, Newton pushed the offense across midfield just one time. And that play was called back for a holding penalty.” As Newton (13-of-29 for 100 yards passing and two interceptions) observed after the contest, “We're not that good yet.” Derek Anderson (5-of-9 for 37 yards and one interception) also turned the ball over, leaving it to Joe Webb to make the final score respectable (6-of-17 for 123 yards, two TDs and zero interceptions). According to Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer, the Panthers are going to stick with the current three-player depth chart of Newton, Anderson, and Webb.

RB: “We have to do better,” fullback Mike Tolbert said after the loss to New England. “Too many turnovers. Too many penalties. Too many mistakes. Simple as that.” Joseph Person

of the Charlotte Observer asserts that the running back depth chart will be Jonathan Stewart, Mike Tolbert, Fozzy Whittaker, and finally Cameron Artis-Payne.

WR: Both Devin Funchess (10 targets for 5/49/0 receiving) and Kelvin Benjamin (six for 3/27/0) caught 50% of their targets versus the Patriots. Funchess has been pushing Benjamin to be the top target, even though in this game he didn't start (Benjamin and Ted Ginn Jr. were the starters). Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer believes that Benjamin, Funchess, Ginn, Philly Brown, Brenton Bersin, and Damiere Byrd will be the receivers on the final 53-man roster. Keyarris Garrett (two targets for 1/34/0 receiving) is on the bubble and may wind up on the practice squad this year. Garrett did have an impressive practice last Wednesday. “He had a big day, and believe me, I was talking about it,” Panthers coach Ron Rivera said. “I called some coaches over to talk about it. It's not what you're doing in the game but how you're handling your opportunities on the practice field.” Stephen Hill was released as he continues to rehab his surgically-reconstructed knee.

TE: Greg Olsen was held out Friday night, due to his recent bout of back spasms. He has been practicing with the team since last Monday, though, and is locked in as the lead tight end. Ed Dickson (five targets for 2/10/0) dropped a TD pass from Newton, while reserve candidate Marcus Lucas (two targets for 2/32/2 receiving) helped make the final score respectable for Carolina by catching both of Joe Webb's TD passes late in the game. Beau Sandland didn't reel in his lone target.

Defense: The team worked out safeties on Saturday, including former San Francisco 49er Donte Whitner and former Cleveland Brown Stevie Brown. Four of the Panthers' five backup safeties behind Tre Boston and Kurt Coleman are injured heading into the preseason finale. LB Jeremy Cash (concussion) exited the Patriots game, and was evaluated for a concussion. Cash and Ben Jacobs are fighting for the last roster spot at linebacker. According to Person of the Charlotte Observer, “...if Cash plays well vs. the Patriots and Jacobs misses much more time with his ankle injury, the decision gets tougher.” Luke Kuechly, Thomas Davis, Shaq Thompson, A.J. Klein, and David Mayo are considered locks at linebacker for the final 53-man roster.

Returners: While Ted Ginn remains the betting favorite to handle most returns for the Panthers this season, Damiere Byrd continues to impress and his roster spot looks more assured every day. If he does make the team, expect him to handle a few return attempts of his own.

OL: During Week Three against the Patriots, right tackle Mike Remmers dealt an effective block that sprung the tailback for a big gain. After suffering minor injuries during the game, starting guards Trai Turner (shoulder) and Andrew Norwell (ankle) returned to practice this week. Guard Chris

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Scott who hurt his shoulder in the contest, also returned to practice. The Panthers waived David Foucault, who was in line for a backup tackle position. Overall the Panthers’ grade out as a top-tier unit, based on the strength of their center Ryan Kalil and the ascending talent of Turner.

Panthers Depth ChartQB: Cam Newton, Derek Anderson, Joe Webb (KR)RB: Jonathan Stewart, Cameron Artis-Payne, Fozzy Whittaker (KR),Brandon Wegher, Jalen Simmons, Devon Johnson (IR)FB: Mike Tolbert, Andrew BonnetWR: Kelvin Benjamin, Ted Ginn (KR/PR), Devin Funchess, Corey Brown, Brenton Bersin, Keyarris Garrett, Kevin Norwood, Damiere ByrdTE: Greg Olsen, Ed Dickson, Beau Sandland, Scott Simonson, Jake McGee, Marcus LucasLT: Michael OherLG: Andrew Norwell, Chris ScottC: Ryan Kalil, Gino GradkowskiRG: Trai TurnerRT: Mike Remmers, Daryl Williams K: Graham GanoDT: Star Lotulelei (NT), Kawann Short, Paul Soliai, Vernon Butler,Kyle Love, Robert Thomas (NT), Eric CrumeDE: Charles Johnson, Kony Ealy, Mario Addison, Ryan Delaire, Wes Horton, Arthur Miley, Larry WebsterMLB: Luke Kuechly, Ben Jacobs, Jared NorrisOLB: Thomas Davis (S), Shaq Thompson (W), A.J. Klein (W/M),Jeremy Cash (S), David Mayo, Brian BlechenCB: Bene Benwikere, James Bradberry, Robert McClain, Daryl Worley, Zack Sanchez, Teddy Williams, Louis Young, Ras-I Dowling,Shaq Richardson, Leonard Johnson (PUP)S: Kurt Coleman (SS), Tre Boston (FS), Colin Jones (SS/CB), Dean Marlowe (SS), Trent Robinson (IR)

Chicago Bears

QB: The offense had a dismal showing at home against the Chiefs in their 3rd preseason game. The starters were completely stifled by the Chiefs first string defense and gained just 18 yards in the first half. Jay Cutler completed just 6-of-15 passes for 45 yards, and failed to lead a scoring drive. In fact, Cutler has led the team on one touchdown drive in twelve attempts this preseason. Brian Hoyer continues to struggle as he went just 8-of-17, while Connor Shaw managed to throw a late touchdown pass to avoid the shutout. Unfortunately, Shaw left the game late in the 4th with a broken leg that put him on IR. David Fales was held out of the game, which suggests he may not be in the team’s long term plans.

RB: Jeremy Langford got the start and played most of the first half with the starters, but was bottled up and finished with just 17 yards on 6 carries with no targets in the passing game. With the Bears trailing and unable to sustain any offensive momentum, there was no chance for any of the other running backs to get going. Jacquizz Rodgers was the first backup off the bench, but only carried the ball once. Ka’Deem Carey and rookie Jordan Howard closed things out in the second half, but neither even managed 10 rushing yards. Langford is probably going to be a workhorse, but the offensive line is going to be a problem, so good games are going to be few and far between.

WR: Alshon Jeffery caught just two of six targets versus the Chiefs. As the best offensive player, he will need to carry the team at times and should be in line for a steady dose of targets. Kevin White continues to be a mystery as he shows promise in practice, but has been a complete non-factor in the preseason games. He caught just 1 pass (on 4 targets) for a 3-yard gain and had several mistakes. Marc Mariani remains in line to be the team’s slot receiver, but also managed just a single catch for minimal yardage against the Chiefs. Among the backups, Josh Bellamy and Cameron Meredith stood out, but neither are good enough to help when an offense is misfiring like this one was.

TE: Presumed starter Zach Miller sat out of the Chiefs games while still dealing with the after effects of a concussion. That opened the door for Rob Housler and Tony Moeaki to play with the first string offense, but neither player was able to separate from the other. The Bears figure to run plenty of 2-TE sets this year, but they were counting pretty heavily on Miller and will need the oft-injured player back to hopefully provide a spark to the passing game.

Defense: The defense is probably going to have to shoulder a heavy load until the offense can find its footing. They showed some positive signs against the Chiefs, particularly with the red zone defense holding the Chiefs to a pair of short field goals early on. Given how little the offense was able to do, the defense wound up being on the field for 22 minutes in the first half so that’s not going to do them too many favors if that trend continues. DE Akiem Hicks registered the first string defense’s first sack of the preseason. Meanwhile, the dire cornerback situation may have gotten worse as starter Tracy Porter left the game with a concussion.

PK: Robbie Gould missed a 48-yard field goal in the third preseason game, after having a rough week of practice, including four straight misses in one practice. Gould missed six kicks in 39 attempts last year, but was facing no competition in camp this year.

Returners: Potential kickoff returner Deonte Thompson suffered an ankle injury which will unfortunately hurt his chances of making Chicago’s opening-day roster. His loss might be Daniel Braverman’s gain.

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OL: According to respected beat writer Dan Pompei, the offensive line was “manhandled” without their star player against the Chiefs. Right guard Kyle Long continues to miss time with a labrum issue. The Bears shuffled the line, moving Ted Larsen over from center to guard and giving undrafted second year player Cornelius Edison a start at center. The new look line found some success in the run game but there was a ton of pressure on quarterback Jay Cutler. This line is a solid mid-tier unit, when Kyle Long is in the lineup. Without him, they look lost.

Bears Depth ChartQB: Jay Cutler, Brian Hoyer, David Fales, Connor Shaw (IR)RB: Jeremy Langford, Ka′Deem Carey, Jordan Howard, Jacquizz RodgersFB: Khari Lee, Paul LasikeWR: Alshon Jeffery, Kevin White, Marquess Wilson (inj), Eddie Royal,Daniel Braverman, Cameron Meredith, Joshua Bellamy, Marc Mariani (KR/PR), Deonte Thompson (KR)TE: Zach Miller, Rob Housler, Tony Moeaki, Ben BrauneckerLT: Charles Leno, Nick BectonLG: Cody Whitehair, Shelley SmithC: Ted Larsen, Khaled Holmes, Hroniss Grasu (IR)RG: Kyle Long, Amini Silatolu RT: Bobby Massie, Nate ChandlerK: Robbie GouldNT: Eddie Goldman, Terry WilliamsDE: Akiem Hicks, Jonathan Bullard, Will Sutton, Mitch Unrein, Ego Ferguson (IR)ILB: Danny Trevathan, Jerrell Freeman, Christian Jones, Nick Kwiatkoski, Jonathan Anderson, John TimuOLB: Pernell McPhee, Lamarr Houston, Willie Young, Leonard Floyd, Sam Acho, Roy Robertson-Harris, Lamin BarrowCB: Kyle Fuller (inj), Tracy Porter, Jacoby Glenn, Bryce Callahan,Deiondre′ Hall, Sherrick McManis, K′Waun Williams (inj), Kevin Peterson, De′Vante Bausby, Taveze Calhoun, Brandon Boykin (IR)S: Adrian Amos (FS), Harold Jones-Quartey (SS), Deon Bush (SS),Chris Prosinski, Deandre Houston-Carson (FS), Demontre Hurst (SS)

Cincinnati Bengals

QB: The quarterbacks are finishing the preseason as they started it – accurate and mistake free. Andy Dalton and A.J. McCarron continue to calmly and consistently move the team in practice and in preseason games. Combined, both quarterbacks were 14-for-22 for nearly 200 yards and two touchdown passes in three quarters of action against

Jacksonville. There’s a strong argument McCarron is better than a handful of NFL starters right now.

RB: Jeremy Hill is the team’s starting running back and will likely get at least two of three series in the base offense and nearly all of the goal line work. Giovani Bernard will play a change of pace role and be the primary passing down contributor. Hill continues to be patient and decisive in his reads behind the line of scrimmage. He and Bernard both showed their ability to impact the offense as receivers against Jacksonville. Hill had a long gain on a well-blocked screen play. Bernard looked lightning quick on a short screen he turned into a touchdown inside the red zone. The news wasn’t all good, however, as Cedric Peerman fractured his arm in the second half and will miss extended time. If Peerman is placed on injured reserve, another roster spot may be available alongside Hill, Bernard, and Rex Burkhead.

WR: The Bengals got a scare when A.J. Green limped off the field in the first quarter with a knee injury after banging knees with Jaguars cornerback Davon House. Green has made it clear the injury isn’t serious and won’t keep him from starting if given an opportunity. Brandon LaFell saw his first preseason action after a week of consecutive practices. He’s still rusty, but was able to draw a pass interference call on a deep seam route. Tyler Boyd continues to be the talk of camp. Bengals.com reporter Geoff Hobson wrote that offensive coordinator Ken Zampese likes Boyd’s “feel in space and how decisively and well he’s able to read and react to zones.” With route-running a concern in college, Boyd’s work in this area is notable. There’s still a chance he steals some outside snaps from LaFell. Hobson also feels fifth round pick Cody Core is a lock for the 53-man roster. A.J. McCarron dropped a perfect ball into Core’s hands after the rookie gained separation on a Jacksonville backup corner down the sideline. Free agent Alex Erickson continues to impress out of the slot and as a punt returner. He may be pushing veteran Brandon Tate off the roster.

TE: According to Ian Rapoport, Tyler Eifert is targeting the window between Weeks 4-6 for his return. Though there was optimism Eifert would be able to return by opening weekend, it was never a realistic expectation. The team has until Saturday to decide whether they’ll keep Eifert on the active roster or move him to the in-season PUP list. The Bengals have not updated Tyler Kroft’s condition. He may not be ready for Week 1 either, leaving C.J. Uzomah as the lone healthy tight end of consequence. Uzomah has been quiet for the past two weeks after a strong start early in camp.

Defense: A strong pass rush and opportunistic linebacking corps held the Jaguars to just three first half points in last week’s preseason game. Carlos Dunlap, Geno Atkins, and Michael Johnson dominated Jacksonville’s offensive line at times and Vinny Rey and Rey Maualuga teamed up to force and recover a fumble deep in Jaguars’ territory. The secondary continues to hold up despite multiple injuries. Alfonzo

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Dennard continues to miss time with an ankle injury and Adam Jones strained a calf during pregame warmups. If Jones’ injury is significant, the team may look for help on the free agent wire after final cuts are made.

PK: Zach Hocker finally took the field and made one extra point against the Jaguars, but it was too little too late to survive roster cuts. Mike Nugent’s job is secure entering the regular season opener.

Returners: Over the past five years, the three certainties have been death, taxes, and Brandon Tate and Adam Jones handling returns for the Cincinnati Bengals. With Jones aging and Tate a low-risk, low-reward returner, the Bengals have toyed with shaking things up this year; Katherine Terrell of ESPN projects that rookie Alex Erickson will take the final spot on Cincinnati’s opening-day roster over Tate.

OL: Injuries are starting to mount as backup center T.J. Johnson was removed from the game against Jacksonville with a concussion. Backup tackle Trip Thurman took his place. The team was already without young tackles Jake Fisher and Cedric Ogbuehi, leaving Eric Winston to start at right tackle. Still even with all those changes, the first team line was dominant against Jacksonville, led by the performance of their guards Kevin Zeitler and Clint Boling. The Bengals are graded out as a clear top-tier unit as the season opens.

Bengals Depth ChartQB: Andy Dalton, A.J. McCarron, Keith WenningRB: Jeremy Hill (SD), Giovani Bernard (3RB), Rex Burkhead (WR),Cedric Peerman (inj), Bronson HillFB: Ryan Hewitt (HB)WR: A.J. Green (inj), Brandon LaFell, Tyler Boyd, Cody Core, James Wright, Jake Kumerow, Alex Erickson, Mario Alford, Angelo Russell,Rashawn SimoniseTE: Tyler Eifert (inj), Tyler Kroft (inj), C.J. Uzomah, Matthew LengelLT: Andrew Whitworth, Jake FisherLG: Clint Boling, Christian WestermanC: Russell Bodine, T.J. JohnsonRG: Kevin ZeitlerRT: Cedric Ogbuehi , Eric WinstonK: Mike NugentDT: Geno Atkins, Domata Peko (NT), Andrew Billings (inj), Pat Sims,Marcus Hardison, David Dean, Brandon Thompson (PUP)DE: Carlos Dunlap, Michael Johnson, Margus Hunt, Will ClarkeMLB: Vontaze Burfict (W) (susp), Rey Maualuga (S), Nick Vigil,Trevor RoachOLB: Karlos Dansby (W/M) , Vincent Rey (S), Paul Dawson (W),Marquis Flowers (S)CB: Adam Jones (PR), Dre Kirkpatrick, Darqueze Dennard, William Jackson III (inj), Josh Shaw, Chris Lewis-Harris, Corey White

S: George Iloka (SS), Shawn Williams (FS), Derron Smith (FS),Jimmy Wilson, Clayton Fejedelem

Cleveland Browns

QB: The third preseason contest left viewers with mixed emotions about Robert Griffin III and the offense. On one hand, Griffin once again connected on deep shots (43 and 44 yards, respectively) to his receivers. He ended his night with eight of 14 completions for 119 yards and a touchdown. On the other hand, Griffin took a pounding to the tune of five sacks and multiple pressures. Offensive lineman Joel Bitonio expressed disappointment with the pass protection: "It's never good when your quarterback gets sacked. We definitely got the QB hit more than we wanted to.'' Head Coach Hue Jackson acknowledged in the post-game press conference that the offense needs to have more than one dimension to be successful. "We can't just live by the long ball. It's good we're scoring. We'll take that. But at the same time, we've got to have other elements of our offense show up and play good." The rumors of a Josh McCown trade have been quieter this week but could re-awaken now that Tony Romo is out for an extended period in Dallas. The Browns hope that rookie Cody Kessler will not need to see game action any time soon, as he has not performed especially well in game situations.

RB: Isaiah Crowell continues to see the bulk of the carries, with Duke Johnson sprinkled in on obvious passing situations. Even dedicated passing work seems to be sparse for Johnson, who has only caught three balls in the preseason to this point. Raheem Mostert and Terrell Watson continue to vie for the third roster spot. It did not help Mostert’s case that he had to sit in Friday’s preseason game with a hamstring injury. It’s very possible that the Browns will roll into the season with only three active running backs on the 53-man roster. It would seem they favor Mostert at this point due to Watson’s struggles to locate open running lanes and Mostert’s ability to do quality work on special teams.

WR: For the first time all preseason, what will eventually be the starting three receivers were all on the field together. Josh Gordon, finally over his hamstring ailment, hauled in the two deep balls that Griffin unleashed, one of which was caught over Buccaneers starting defensive back Brent Grimes. Corey Coleman played from the first quarter on, needing to get every possible rep after being sidelined the entire preseason with a hamstring issue. Coach Jackson attempted to put things in perspective: "We've all got to remember there was a two-week or two-and-a-half-week period where he did nothing. His process probably changed a little bit from being out there at practice and doing the other things he was doing each and every day because he had to get healthy.” Jackson also said, “This guy's a tremendous football player and he'll bounce back and he's looking forward to playing this week." Jackson

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confirmed Coleman will play in the Week Four preseason game in order to make up for lost reps. With Terrelle Pryor coming on as the second receiver (pushed to the third when Gordon returns from suspension) and Andrew Hawkins serving an occasional role in the slot, Jordan Payton, Ricardo Louis, and Rashard Higgins are all at risk of being cut with the intention of adding them to the practice squad.

TE: Gary Barnidge is locked in as the starter and has been targeted often throughout camp and preseason games. He will continue to be both a security blanket and a red zone threat. There is still no sure resolution to the competition behind Barnidge, however. Randall Telfer has been used in two tight end sets which may be a harbinger of the regular season pecking order. Despite fourth-rounder Seth DeValve missing most of the preseason with an injury, the Browns are likely to keep him on the roster because they believe he can develop into a size-speed mismatch in time. Connor Hamlett is the most likely of this group to find a spot on the practice squad.

Defense: The defense lacks continuity, giving up big plays on the ground and through the air. Hue Jackson said in his Saturday phone call with the media that inexperience is to blame. "It's so important that those guys play together, be together, be able to make calls,'' he said. “When we're talking about communication issues, that's where some of that comes from. You have a lot of young guys maybe playing at a time and they hear something and don't react very quickly. So we've got to make sure we take the opportunity for error out as much as we can. So now it's about time we put units together and let them play and get these guys ready for the opener." Joe Haden made his preseason debut on Friday night, but did not see much action, as Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston seemed to prefer picking on the inexperienced Jamar Taylor. Justin Gilbert was having his best game to date, but suffered a concussion in the second quarter. Earlier in the week, Cleveland finally gave up on former first-round pick Barkevious Mingo, trading him away to the Patriots for a fifth-round pick.

PK: Travis Coons made a 26-yard kick in the loss to Tampa Bay, but Patrick Murray also made a 35-yard attempt and an extra point. Murray won the battle as Coons was released on Monday.

Returners: After a week replete with muffed returns, Raheem Mostert has steadied his play and taken a clear lead in the race for the kickoff return job. He’s a candidate to handle punt returns, too, but top draft pick Corey Coleman will push him for that role.

OL: Starting quarterback Robert Griffin III was sacked five times versus Tampa Bay. Center Cameron Erving had an especially mixed performance. Erving surrendered a sack when he did not properly pick up a stunt, and looked completely lost in the run game. In the wake of Alex Mack’s departure this offseason, Erving is being gifted the starting

job, and the coaches’ comments about Erving remain upbeat. But still, the team has other options at center in John Greco and Garth Gerhart, should the latter make the roster. Right tackle Austin Pasztor remains the nominal starter but he has also struggled and could be benched at any time for Alvin Bailey. Still, the Browns’ line is a decent mid-tier option, and the uncertainty at two starting positions is balanced out somewhat by the future Hall of Famer at left tackle in Joe Thomas.

Browns Depth ChartQB: Robert Griffin III, Josh McCown, Cody Kessler, Austin DavisRB: Isaiah Crowell (SD), Duke Johnson (3RB), Terrell Watson, Raheem Mostert, Glenn WinstonFB: Malcolm JohnsonWR: Josh Gordon (susp), Corey Coleman, Terrelle Pryor, Andrew Hawkins, Rashard Higgins, Taylor Gabriel, Jordan Payton, Ricardo Louis, Darius Jennings, Marlon Moore, Ed EaganTE: Gary Barnidge, Connor Hamlett, E.J. Bibbs, Seth Devalve, Randall TelferLT: Joe Thomas, Shon ColemanLG: Joel Bitonio, Kaleb Johnson C: Cameron ErvingRG: John Greco, Alvin BaileyRT: Austin Pasztor, Spencer DrangoK: Travis Coons (inj), Patrick Murray, Jaden OberkromNT: Danny Shelton, Jamie Meder, Nile Lawrence-StampleDE: John Hughes, Xavier Cooper, Emmanuel Ogbah, Carl Nassib, Nick Hayden, Dylan Wynn, Desmond Bryant (IR)ILB: Christian Kirksey, Demario Davis, Tank Carder, Joe Schobert, Scooby Wright III, Justin TuggleOLB: Paul Kruger, Nate Orchard, Armonty Bryant, Barkevious Mingo, Cam Johnson, Jackson Jeffcoat, Dominique AlexanderCB: Joe Haden, Tramon Williams, K′Waun Williams, Jamar Taylor, Justin Gilbert, Trey Caldwell, Eric Patterson, Kenya DennisS: Jordan Poyer (FS), Ibraheim Campbell (SS), Rahim Moore (FS),Pierre Desir (FS/CB), Don Jones (SS), Derrick Kindred, Sean Baker (FS), Tim Scott (FS)

Dallas Cowboys

QB: Tony Romo was tackled by Cliff Avril on the third play from scrimmage in the Week 3 game versus the Seahawks, and was removed as a precaution. Romo and the team insisted he was 100% fine after the game, and it looked like the team had dodged a bullet. Unfortunately, an MRI on Saturday revealed a broken bone in Romo’s back. Early reports say he’ll miss 6 to 10 weeks, and this will certainly cast a pall on the Cowboys season given Romo’s recent injury issues. "We've gotten a lot of different timetables for when he can

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return," Garrett said. "We also know that he's played with a broken bone in his back before, so there's no reason for me to stand up here and put a timetable on this. I think a lot of other people outside of this building have suggested they know what the timetable is. That's not the world we live in. We live in the world day by day, do what you can to get yourself better and we'll update you as we go."

That opens the door for rookie Dak Prescott to start the season opener. Prescott has played so well this preseason that Dallas had held off signing a veteran to replace Kellen Moore. It’s now a foregone conclusion Dallas will have to add a veteran but it would be unrealistic to expect a veteran to learn the offense well enough to displace Prescott with two weeks until the season opener. Prescott had another impressive game – he completed 17-of-23 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown while running for 12 yards on two carries. His play has been nothing short of electrifying, but it’s important to remember he’s been playing against backups (for the most part) in plain-vanilla schemes. To expect the rookie’s preseason prowess to translate into regular season box scores would be asking far too much.

RB: Ezekiel Elliott finally gave fantasy owners what they wanted – a dominant preseason performance. The rookie powerhouse ran seven times for 48 yards (6.8 per carry) and showed power, elusiveness and vision. As long as the offseason issues remain minor, Elliott is poised for a monster season running behind the stellar Cowboys offensive line. Alfred Morris has had a tremendous preseason and will be a fantasy stud if Elliott gets hurt; he’s the handcuff. Although he didn’t put up huge numbers versus the Seahawks (17 yards rushing, 11 yards receiving), there’s little doubt he’s up to the task. The more interesting question is whether Darius Jackson has earned the right to play on Sundays and whether that means Darren McFadden’s future is in jeopardy. McFadden didn’t play again, while Jackson ran five times for 30 yards (6.0 per attempt) to go along with a 9-yard reception.

WR: Just when we thought it was safe to go back in the water…Tony Romo gets banged up on the first drive and Dez Bryant sits out after suffering a concussion in practice. Until this week, Dez Bryant had given everyone hope he was set to return to elite form. The concussion is a mild concern, but Bryant returned to practice on Sunday. Terrance Williams has also had a strong preseason, and looked fine in limited work (one catch for 11 yards). Cole Beasley is locked in as the slot receiver, and will play in 3-WR sets. Beasley caught 4-of-6 targets for 30 yards versus the Seahawks. There’s still some guesswork as to how the 53-man roster rounds out although Devin Street, Brice Butler and Lucky Whitehead have the edge; Whitehead more so because of his special teams contributions than his receiving skills.

TE: Jason Witten looked like a fantasy bargain for much of the preseason, but Romo’s injury changes things. Witten is an exemplary blocker and one has to think Dallas will keep him

in more since the offense has to run through rookie Prescott. Against the Seahawks he caught a 17-yard touchdown with a jaw-dropping catch in tight coverage. “He went and made a hell of a grab over a big defender, and I was thankful,” Dak Prescott said. “I told him, ‘I love you, thank you for catching that, I needed that.’” Gavin Escobar showed promise early in the preseason but has strung together back-to-back quiet weeks in practice. He had just one catch for zero yards against Seattle. Geoff Swaim has earned a larger role, and caught five passes for 17 yards on Friday night.

Defense: The defense was never expected to be an above average unit, and if the Week Three dress rehearsal is any indication, it may not even be a middling unit. Seattle threw for 222 yards (7.2 per attempt) and two touchdowns (107 passer rating) and the ground game was even more potent with 148 yards (5.5 per rush) and a touchdown. Morris Claiborne has enjoyed a resurgent preseason, but struggled against Seattle. Claiborne was beaten for a touchdown and let two potential interceptions slip through his hands.

Returners: As one of the league’s few true dual-threat return options with no major challengers for his job, Lucky Whitehead remains on the short list of players who could lead the league in total return yards.

OL: On the road in Seattle, the offensive line’s running game performance served as a reminder of why they are the top rated line in our rankings. The line started off run blocking straight ahead and getting small gains. But as the game progressed, the line ran the strong side sweep to defeat the edge of the defense. It’s here where cracks started to show in the defense. As the game wears on, the line should be more productive in pushing defenders aside. While the Dallas line is in a tough situation, due to the injury to their starting quarterback, they have the talent and cohesion to help Ezekiel Elliot run over teams, even if they know it’s coming.

Cowboys Depth ChartQB: Dak Prescott, Tony Romo (inj), Kellen Moore (inj), Jameill ShowersRB: Ezekiel Elliott, Darren McFadden (inj), Alfred Morris, Lance Dunbar, Darius Jackson, Rod Smith, Ben MalenaWR: Dez Bryant, Terrance Williams, Cole Beasley, Brice Butler,Devin Street, Lucky Whitehead (KR/PR), Vince Mayle, Chris BrownTE: Jason Witten, Gavin Escobar, Geoff Swaim, Rico Gathers, James Hanna (PUP)LT: Tyron Smith, Darrion WeemsLG: Lael Collins, Ronald LearyC: Travis FrederickRG: Zack MartinRT: Doug Free, Chaz GreenK: Dan BaileyDT: Tyrone Crawford, Cedric Thornton, Terrell McClain, Jack Crawford, Maliek Collins

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DE: Benson Mayowa, David Irving, Ryan Russell, Charles Tapper,Demarcus Lawrence (susp), Randy Gregory (susp)MLB: Anthony Hitchens, Andrew Gachkar, Mark Nzeocha (W),Jaylon Smith (res), Rolando McClain (susp)OLB: Sean Lee (W), Kyle Wilber (S), Justin Durant (W), Damien Wilson (W), Deon King (S), Keith Smith (W), James Morris, Ka′Lial Glaud, Jerrell Harris, Derek AkunneCB: Brandon Carr, Orlando Scandrick, Morris Claiborne (inj),Anthony Brown, Josh Thomas, Isaiah Frey, Dax SwansonS: Barry Church (SS), Byron Jones (FS), J.J. Wilcox (SS), Jeff Heath (FS), Ayodeji Olatoye (FS), Kavon Frazier (SS)

Denver Broncos

QB: The starting quarterback battle has been one of the bigger stories throughout the league this preseason, but it’s finally come to a resolution. Gary Kubiak named Trevor Siemian the Week One starter; a move that was hardly unexpected after this weekend’s dress rehearsal game against the Rams. Siemian played the entire first half against Los Angeles, while rookie Paxton Lynch manned the reins for the entire second half. Siemian was decent but unspectacular in Saturday’s game. In what could be a familiar sight for the Broncos this season, the team’s first two drives of the game consisted solely of running plays. Lynch struggled with his accuracy on Saturday, but he didn’t do anything to hinder his case for the backup role to start the season. That leaves Mark Sanchez as the odd man out; he saw zero snaps in Saturday’s game.

RB: C.J. Anderson had another strong outing against the Rams as his exemplary preseason continues. He was utilized heavily in the dress rehearsal game with 11 carries in total; five of which came on the first two series. For a team that has some serious question marks at the quarterback position, Anderson could be leaned on heavily. Devontae Booker did not have the strongest of outings against the Rams, but he’s shown enough throughout the summer to entrench himself as Anderson’s backup. There’s a good chance he’ll see a larger role as the season moves along. An interesting battle for the RB3 job has broken out between Ronnie Hillman and Kapri Bibbs. Earlier in the preseason, it looked like Bibbs was in the lead due to the value he brings on special teams. However, Hillman responded on Saturday with an impressive line of 5/45/1. “That’s what you’re looking for. I’m very proud of him, he did some good stuff tonight,” Kubiak said. The Broncos are considering keeping only three backs once final cuts are completed.

WR: After opening the game with six consecutive running plays, the Broncos decided to see what Trevor Siemian could do through the air on the next few series. He was able to hook

up with Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders a combined seven times on 12 targets for 108 yards. One of the game’s highlights was a spectacular one-handed grab by Thomas in the second quarter for a 43-yard gain that also happened to be one of Lynch’s better throws of the game. Cody Latimer has been battling with Bennie Fowler for the WR3 spot, and he appeared to be in the lead when Fowler went down with an injury. Latimer now finds himself dealing with an injury of his own as he exited Saturday’s game with a knee issue. We’ll have to wait and see if either of them are healthy enough to suit up for Week 1, and that may ultimately be the determining factor for who wins out. Jordan Taylor and Jordan Norwood appear to be next in line on the depth chart. Taylor was targeted three times on Saturday, while Norwood was targeted just once.

TE: For the first depth chart of training camp, Virgil Green and Jeff Heuerman were listed as co-starters at the tight end position. Fast forward a few weeks, and we have a completely different story. Green has seized the opportunity while Heuerman has been slowed by a hamstring injury. “We’re very excited about him taking advantage of an opportunity right now,” Kubiak said of Green. Heuerman sat out the dress rehearsal game, but is expected to return to practice soon. “He’s still probably a few days away from getting back on the field. We’ll see. The concern is the fact that we need him back and want him back,” said Kubiak. Interest is increasing in Green in fantasy circles, and for good reason. He’s been a breakout candidate for a few years now, and he may finally have the opportunity to make it happen. It’s pretty easy to envision a conservative passing attack that relies on the tight end as a safety blanket this season, and Green could be a later-round tight end that easily outperforms his draft position.

Defense: Through three preseason games, the first-team defense has not allowed an opponent into the end zone. The first-team played the whole first half in Saturday’s tilt against the Rams, and they delivered a hard-hitting, physical effort. Aqib Talib was one of the more physical defenders on the evening, and he drew a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty when he leveled Rams quarterback Case Keenum on a sideline scramble. “I just play football. I’ll deal with the results, man. I thought he was still in bounds personally so I guess we’ll check the film and see what happened,” Talib said after the game. Von Miller looks to be in midseason form as he blew past the line for a sack of Keenum early in the game. “Sacks are what I’m supposed to do. That’s in the description. Whenever I can go out there and do my job, it’s always great,” he said. All told, it was an impressive effort from a unit that has looked great throughout the preseason. Denver should be a DST that actually lives up to the hype.

Returners: Denver’s returners have struggled on kickoffs this preseason, but special teams coach Joe DeCamillis explains that’s in part a result of following instructions. “I tell them to bring it out… because we have to evaluate guys. You can’t evaluate touchbacks. It’s as simple as that.”

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OL: The first team offensive line had a do-or-die moment against the stout Rams’ defensive front. On fourth and inches, the team called for a dive over left guard Max Garcia but the line failed to get the push needed for the first down conversion. This is going to be a constant theme for the young line. They should be good enough to pass protect but asking them to push the pile when the other team knows it’s coming might be too much. The Broncos still have a question at right guard, where Ty Sambrailo and Michael Schofield are competing. Overall the Broncos’ line grades out as a lower-tier unit, and while they have some decent players, it’s hard to imagine how they rise out of the cellar this season.

Broncos Depth ChartQB: Trevor Siemian, Paxton Lynch, Mark SanchezRB: C.J. Anderson, Devontae Booker, Ronnie Hillman, Juwan Thompson, Kapri BibbsFB: Andy JanovichWR: Demaryius Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders (PR), Bennie Fowler (inj), Cody Latimer (inj), Jordan Norwood, Kalif Raymond, Jordan Taylor, Mose Frazier, Bralon AddisonTE: Virgil Green, Jeff Heuerman, Richard Gordon, John Phillips, Nick Kasa, Henry Krieger-Coble, Anthony Norris, Garrett Graham (IR)LT: Russell Okung, Darrion WeemsLG: Connor McGovern, Ty Sambrailo (inj), Aaron NearyC: Matt Paradis, James FerentzRG: Max GarciaRT: Donald Stephenson, Michael SchofieldK: Brandon McManusNT: Sylvester Williams, Darius Kilgo, Kyle PekoDE: Derek Wolfe, Jared Crick, Adam Gotsis, Billy Winn, Kenny Anunike, Henry Melton, George Uko, Vontarrius Dora, Shaniel Jenkins, Eddie Yarbrough, Vance Walker (IR)ILB: Brandon Marshall, Todd Davis, Corey Nelson, Zaire AndersonOLB: Von Miller, DeMarcus Ware, Shaquil Barrett, Shane Ray,Dekoda Watson, Frank Shannon, Sadat Sulleyan, Dwayne NormanCB: Aqib Talib (susp), Chris Harris Jr., Bradley Roby, Kayvon Webster, Lorenzo Doss, John TidwellS: T.J. Ward (SS), Darian Stewart (FS), Justin Simmons (FS), Shiloh Keo, Will Parks, B.J. Lowery, Ryan Murphy

Detroit Lions

QB: Matthew Stafford played the entire first half with the starters on Saturday evening at Baltimore in the third preseason game. While Stafford has been sharp throughout training camp and in his limited time in the first two preseason tilts, he didn’t have his best stuff against Baltimore. One of the reasons for optimism in Detroit is that the Lions are tailoring

an offensive approach that makes Stafford comfortable and fits the things he does extremely well. Stafford has never been a quarterback that fares well holding the ball facing pressure waiting for deeper routes to develop, and the offense struggled against the Ravens when they took deep shots down the field. Interestingly enough, the first-team offense looked good when they went no-huddle and got the ball out quickly. Michael Renner of Pro Football Focus reported that Stafford struggled in this game while throwing to the intermediate and deep areas of the field. He had Stafford attempting six throws of 10 yards or more in the game, completing none of them. Stafford finished 14-of-23 for 95 yards with no touchdowns but he did throw an ugly interception.

Veteran backup Dan Orlovsky came into the game at the start of the third quarter and like the rest of the offense, he didn’t do much. He is not performing all that much better than rookie Jake Rudock, and the decision as to who backs up Stafford will be an interesting one. Orlovsky completed four of his seven throws for 49 yards and Rudock didn’t complete a pass in six attempts. Kyle Meinke of www.mlive.com believes that there is an open competition for the No. 2 job, and that Rudock has actually outperformed Orlovsky throughout camp and in the preseason games.

RB: Ameer Abdullah missed training camp recovering from shoulder surgery, but he returned to practice last week and ran with the first team offense Saturday. Abdullah is far and away the most explosive back in a traditional sense, and he showed that explosion against Baltimore. The Lions are going to have a hard time running the ball consistently, but Abdullah will make big plays for this offense. Abdullah had four carries for 16 yards, but that didn’t tell the whole story. He could have scored twice in the game. He dropped a pass on a slip-screen that could have gone the distance, and he scored a touchdown that was called back due to a hold. Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press reported that Abdullah could not have asked for much more out of his 2016 debut. Third down specialist Theo Riddick was his usual self, consistently making the first defender miss as a receiver out of the backfield. Riddick caught one pass for seven yards and carried the ball three times, finishing with 35 yards. Veteran Stevan Ridley was cut last week which solidifies Zach Zenner’s stock, along with rookie Dwayne Washington. Veteran George Winn is in the mix here, but it’s not difficult to see Washington making this roster because of his play on special teams.

WR: The first-team offense struggled to get into a good rhythm on Saturday, as penalties, drops and overall poor play sapped the offense of its potency. There were little glimpses of what this offense can be though, but in this particular game the Lions bit off more that they could chew. They attempted longer developing routes and that’s not an area where Stafford is going to perform well. When they went to the short passing game, they moved the ball well. Golden Tate has always been known for having very good hands, but he’s dropping more

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passes this preseason games and that continued Saturday. Tate caught three passes for 29 yards and carried the ball once for six yards. Marvin Jones has amazing body control and continues to make dazzling sideline catches. He and Stafford have quickly developed rapport. Jones caught three passes for 25 yards. Justin Rogers of The Detroit News reports that the Lions used three receiver sets versus Baltimore and Anquan Boldin played 37 snaps while Jones and Tate played 40 reps each with the first team offense. That gives Boldin’s fantasy value a boost as he’ll help the Lions to move the chains. Boldin caught three balls for 22 yards in the game. Corey Fuller will start the season on the PUP list according to a report from Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press. Veteran receiver Jeremy Kerley was traded to the San Francisco 49ers over the weekend, an indication that he was likely to get cut. T.J. Jones looks likely to make the 53-man roster and that leaves a bunch of guys fighting for one spot. Veteran Andre Roberts and undrafted free agents Jace Billingsley, Quinshad Davis and Jay Lee are locked in the battle. Special teams play will be a major factor in which receiver makes the final cut.

TE: The Lions are not releasing any tangible information on Eric Ebron’s injury or his status for the regular season, and the possibility of Ebron not playing in Week 1 puts a damper on the offense. Justin Rogers of The Detroit News reported that Ebron returned to practice on August 23, although he was still limited in the portion of the practice that Rogers actually saw. Veteran Brandon Pettigrew looks like a candidate to start on the PUP list and that leaves a very thin stable of tight ends after Ebron. Cole Wick has had a tremendous camp and he has played well as a pass catcher in the preseason games, but he’s seriously ill-prepared as a blocker and that presents problems for the offense. Behind Wick is Orson Charles, and then there are the blocking tight ends like Andrew Quarless and Adam Fuehne. Obviously, the return of Ebron is of significant importance.

Defense: The Lions front four is a stout group and is likely the strength of the team. Defensive tackles Haloti Ngata and Tyrunn Walker are starters and a rotation with Caraun Reid, Gabe Wright, Stefan Charles and rookie A’Shawn Robinson should give the starters a breather. There were questions about the linebacker play but DeAndre Levy’s return is phenomenal news for the defense. Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press reported that Levy played 22 snaps and showed no effects from his injury. Levy is the glue of this defense and he solidifies the run and the pass. Tahir Whitehead looked very good playing the middle linebacker position in Saturday’s game. Kyle Van Noy continues to attack the ball. The secondary continues to be a work in progress, particularly the strong safety position and the No. 2 corner position. Safety Rafael Bush looked solid early in camp but has given way to Tavon Wilson who started versus Baltimore. Wilson played well and while no decision has been made, it looks good for Wilson. No. 2 cornerback Nevin Lawson continues to hold off all challengers but he’s playing too far off in coverage and he’s consistently being beaten. There’s something to be said

for not getting beat deep, but allowing 7-to-10 yards every throw is simply unacceptable.

Returners: For much of the offseason the talk around Ameer Abdullah was that the team expected him to handle kickoff return duties, but since his return on August 20th the plan seems to have changed. Instead, Dwayne Washington continues to handle first-team duties, with T.J. Jones backing him up on kickoffs and serving as the top punt returner.

OL: The youth movement continues as the team acquired 25-year old guard Brandon Thomas from the 49ers, and cut veteran Geoff Schwartz. Schwartz was made redundant by the excellent play of their rookie draft pick Joe Dahl, who seems secure as a backup option. Thomas hopes to be a backup option behind Larry Warford and Laken Tomlinson, but his roster spot is not certain. At left tackle, Taylor Decker continues to have growing pains but the coaching staff remains committed and will ride out the inevitable bumps of his rookie season. While the line did have some success in the running game against the Ravens, the line remains a lower-tier squad, due to their youth and lack of cohesion playing together, especially at the tackle positions. Pass protection could be an issue for quarterback Matthew Stafford this season.

Lions Depth ChartQB: Matthew Stafford, Dan Orlovsky, Jake RudockRB: Ameer Abdullah (KR), Theo Riddick (3RB), Zach Zenner (SD),Dwayne Washington (KR), George WinnFB: Michael BurtonWR: Marvin Jones, Golden Tate (PR), Anquan Boldin, TJ Jones (KR/PR), Jay Lee, Andre Roberts, Jace Billingsley, Corey Fuller (inj),Ryan Spadola (IR)TE: Eric Ebron (inj), Cole Wick, Adam Fuehne, Ben McCord,Brandon Pettigrew (PUP), Andrew Quarless (susp), Tim Wright (IR)LT: Taylor Decker, Corey RobinsonLG: Laken Tomlinson, Joe Dahl, Gabe IkardC: Travis Swanson, Graham GlascowRG: Larry Warford, Geoff SchwartzRT: Riley Reiff, Michael Ola, Cornelius LucasK: Matt PraterDT: Haloti Ngata, A′Shawn Robinson, Tyrunn Walker (inj), Caraun Reid, Khyri Thornton, Gabe Wright, Stefan Charles, Kerry HyderDE: Ezekiel Ansah, Devin Taylor, Wallace Gilberry, Anthony ZettelMLB: Tahir Whitehead (S), Antwione Williams, Dominique Tovell (S)OLB: DeAndre Levy (W), Kyle Van Noy (S), Josh Bynes (S),Khaseem Greene, Brandon Copeland, Zaviar Gooden, Dominique Tovell, Jonathan Bostic (IR)CB: Darius Slay, Nevin Lawson, Quandre Diggs, Darrin Walls, Alex Carter, Johnson Bademosi (FS), Adairius Barnes, Charles Washington, Brandon McGee

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S: Glover Quin (FS), Rafael Bush (FS), Tavon Wilson (SS), Miles Killebrew (SS), Don Carey

Green Bay Packers

QB: Aaron Rodgers completed 6-of-9 passes for 69 yards and a touchdown against the 49ers in the Week 3 dress rehearsal. Brett Hundley missed the game, as expected, as he recovers from offseason ankle surgery. Joe Callahan (16/24 for 167 yards and a touchdown) was solid and could credibly push Hundley for the #2 job next season. Marquise Williams failed to complete a pass for the second consecutive game.

RB: Third-string running back John Crockett (13/46/0 rushing with four targets for 3/4/0 receiving) suffered a shoulder injury of unspecified severity against the 49ers. Eddie Lacey ran well (45 yards) with a robust 6.4 yards per carry average. James Starks gained 22 yards on 7 carries, for a disappointing 3.1 per carry average. Unlike last preseason, Lacy has put sizable distance between himself and the backups. Brandon Burks (6/30/1 rushing) helped his case to be a reserve running back, while Brandon Ross (4/-1/0 rushing) did not.

WR: Randall Cobb had three catches for 30 yards and a touchdown. While Jordy Nelson has been on the sidelines rehabbing, Cobb has reasserted himself with a healthy and productive preseason. Backup Geronimo Allison (five targets for 3/78/0 during the game) made his case for sticking with the team. As Eric Baranczyk and Pete Dougherty, USA Today Network - Wisconsin point out, “...the Packers have eight receivers who will play in the NFL this year: Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Davante Adams, Ty Montgomery, Jared Abbrederis, Jeff Janis, fifth-round pick Trevor Davis and undrafted rookie Geronimo Allison.” Though Janis is currently rehabbing a broken hand, he is a valuable special teams contributor and is, therefore, unlikely to go on IR. The Packers aren’t going to keep eight receivers, so a trade near the final cut-downs is possible. “...unless an injury intervenes this week, [GM Ted] Thompson could face the choice of trading a receiver [speculated to be Davis or Allison], or losing a promising one while getting nothing in return.” According to Ryan Wood of the USA Today Network - Wisconsin, “Jordy Nelson won’t play [next] Thursday in Kansas City, but the Green Bay Packers receiver expects fewer restrictions in practice this week. After returning from the physically unable to perform list Aug. 17, Nelson has been limited to individual drills in practice. He said his first team reps could come Monday [August 29] when the Packers return to Ray Nitschke Field.”

TE: Jared Cook turned in another strong game at San Francisco, four receptions for 54 yards, while Richard Rodgers caught just one pass for 8 yards. “Another weapon for A-Rod,” running back Eddie Lacy said after the game. “It's dangerous for opponents. It's real scary. I can't wait to see myself when I'm playing.” Cook has clearly seized the top job entering the regular season. Aaron Rodgers added, “I think he's going to be a big part of our offense. He made a lot of plays out there. He did a good job on the basic route on third down that I hit him on. He made some contested catches tonight which was nice to see. He did a good job with the ball in his hands. He's a big body who has some athleticism. He did a good job with the stiff arm on the catch on the sideline. That was impressive to watch. It's going to be fun for us to grow that chemistry over the season. We need him to stay healthy, but he made some really nice plays tonight.”

Defense: Clay Matthews is reveling in his return to right outside linebacker. “Well, yeah, that's what I try to do,” Matthews said of his desire to intimidate the opposition. “You want to be that guy in game week that offensive coordinators go, 'OK, we've got to keep two on him.' The tackle will never admit it but you want him in his head to be, like, 'Oh, (expletive).” Nose tackle is a concern entering the regular season. #1 NT Letroy Guion (knee injury) and #2 NT Kenny Clark (back injury) are currently out of the lineup. Clark reports his back is feeling better, though, and he may be available when the season opener rolls around. Beat writer Dougherty commented, “...one surprise Friday night was that Mike Pennel started at defensive tackle in the nickel opposite Mike Daniels with Guion and Clark out. That’s a surprise because Pennel has a four-game drug suspension to start the season, and suspended players don’t play with the starters in the preseason [for the Packers]. Yet there Pennel was in the starting lineup Friday night instead of fourth-round pick Dean Lowry, who had been in the base 3-4 to open the first two preseason games precisely because of Pennel’s suspension.” We'll see if the team makes a move at defensive tackle as other NFL clubs cut down their rosters.

Returners: The Packers have plenty of options in the return game, but lack clarity on who will handle the job this season. Jeff Janis seemed like the best bet to handle kickoff returns before he broke his hand, but his injury opens the door for Micah Hyde, Jared Abbrederis, and Trevor Davis.

OL: The line did an effective job blocking against the 49ers; allowing running back Eddie Lacy to find daylight. According to the model, this line grades out among the league’s best units, and as one might expect from such a line, the starting five jobs are all secured. While Corey Linsley starts the season on the PUP list, the starting center spot is officially J.C. Tretter’s (and his family are thrilled). It’s all pretty boring and what passes for news regarding the Packers’ offensive line primarily concerns the performance of the backups, including second round rookie Jason Spriggs, and utility man Don Barclay, whom the team values for his ability

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to sub at all five positions.

Packers Depth ChartQB: Aaron Rodgers, Brett Hundley, Joe Callahan, Marquise WilliamsRB: Eddie Lacy, James Starks, Brandon Burks, Brandon Ross, Don Johnson, John Crockett (IR)FB: Aaron Ripkowski, Alstevis SquirewellWR: Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Jared Abbrederis, Davante Adams, Ty Montgomery, Jeff Janis (KR) (inj), Trevor Davis (KR/PR),Geronimo Allison, Jamel Johnson, Ed Williams, Herb Waters, Harvey BinfordTE: Jared Cook, Richard Rodgers, Justin Perillo, Casey Pierce,Kennard Backman (IR), Mitchell Henry (IR)LT: David Bakhtiari, Jason SpriggsLG: Josh Sitton, Lane Taylor, William CampbellC: Corey Linsley, J.C. TretterRG: T.J. Lang, Josh WalkerRT: Bryan Bulaga, Kyle MurphyK: Mason CrosbyNT: Letroy Guion, Kenny Clark, Christian Ringo, Brian PriceDE: Mike Daniels, Datone Jones, Mike Pennel, Dean Lowry, Tyler Kuder, Demetris Anderson, Reggie GilbertILB: Sam Barrington (M), Jake Ryan, Blake Martinez, Carl Bradford (M), Joe ThomasOLB: Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, Nick Perry, Jayrone Elliott,Kyler Fackrell, Beniquez Brown, Manoa PikulaCB: Sam Shields, Quinten Rollins, Damarious Randall, Demetri Goodson (susp), LaDarius Gunter, Robertson Daniel, Josh Hawkins,Makinton DorleantS: Morgan Burnett (SS), Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (FS), Micah Hyde (FS/PR), Chris Banjo (SS), Kentrell Brice, Marwin Evans

Houston Texans

QB: Brock Osweiler was incredibly efficient in Week 3 against the Cardinals, completing 11-of-13 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown. He led three scoring drives on just four possessions on his way to compiling a passer-rating of 139.1. Osweiler has shown significant improvement each outing and is a fantasy sleeper due his supporting cast. “If you look at the receivers I’m able to throw to, those guys are very special, they’re all very dynamic, they get open,” Osweiler said. Tom Savage entered the game with less than two minutes remaining in the first half and promptly led a six-play, 81-yard touchdown drive that finished with a 17-yard touchdown pass to Jaelen Strong. Savage played until midway through the fourth quarter. He went 4-for-11 for 75 yards. Savage has solidified his standing as Osweiler’s backup with a strong camp.

RB: Lamar Miller rushed four times for just four yards, but was able to pound in a touchdown from short distance. Miller has had an excellent camp and is firmly established as the workhorse back for the Texans. His fantasy outlook could be negatively impacted by the injuries along the offensive line however. Tyler Ervin is making a bid to be the primary backup and had his best outing of the preseason. He caught a 20-yard pass and rushed for 13 yards on two carries. Just as importantly, he made a pair of key plays as a pass-blocker to give Osweiler time to get off throws. His improving play as a pass protector is the biggest key to his seeing more time as a third-down back. Ervin also made an impact with a 58-yard kick return. Alfred Blue returned to practice last week after missing time with a shoulder injury. He made his preseason debut against Arizona and led the team with 17 rushing yards on six carries. Blue should make the team as the third back.

WR: While DeAndre Hopkins remains locked in as the top receiver, the story of training camp in recent weeks has been the rapid emergence of rookies Will Fuller and Braxton Miller. Fuller scored a long touchdown for the second straight week. He led the team with three catches for 67 yards and again played nearly all the first-team reps with Osweiler. The Texans quarterback has formed a nice rapport with Fuller and looks his way often in practice. “Will’s a very special football player,” Osweiler said. “What people really need to know about him – obviously everybody knows about his speed, they saw him all last season, they saw him at the combine – but it’s his work ethic. That’s what really makes him special. He comes in every single day, he works extremely hard, studies hard and practices hard. We expect big things out of Will this season.” Head coach Bill O’Brien has also been impressed with the polish of his rookie first-rounder: “Fuller is a good player, he’s a smart player. He understands route running. He understands coverage. I think he was very well coached at Notre Dame, as was Braxton Miller at Ohio State,” O’Brien said. “Those guys were very well coached. I think that says a lot. When you get guys from those types of college programs that have been exposed to some really good coaching, that helps you when you get them as rookies.” Miller again was a go-to target for Osweiler on third downs and made plays when his number was called. He caught all three of his targets for 29 yards. He should see the field often as the slot in the Texans’ three-wide receiver base offense. Jaelen Strong is backing up Hopkins, which essentially makes him the fourth receiver. He caught two of his five targets, for 22 yards and a touchdown against the Cardinals. After some early camp buzz, Strong has taken a backseat to the rookie draft picks.

TE: The emergence of the Texans young receivers means the tight ends are likely to be an afterthought in the passing game again in 2016. C.J. Fiedorowicz and Ryan Griffin each caught one pass for seven yards in Week 3. Rookie Stephen Anderson had a quiet game with no catches and just one target. While Anderson may have some long-term upside, there is very little to see at the position from a fantasy perspective.

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Defense: The Texans defense forced five turnovers, including a pair of interceptions against starting quarterback Carson Palmer. When J.J. Watt returns, this could be one of the best defenses in the NFL. Former #1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney is the healthiest he has in his professional career. He is poised for a breakout season. Pass rusher Johnny Simon has been a playmaker in preseason action. He scored his second touchdown in three weeks on an interception return for a score against the Cardinals. Fifth-rounder D.J. Reader has been the most impressive of the rookie defenders. He looks like he could be the heir apparent to Vince Wilfork in the middle of the Texans defense.

PK: Nick Novak made both of his field goals and all four of his extra point attempts against the Cardinals. He suffered a concussion last week but cleared protocol in time for the third preseason game. Novak is secure as the Texans kicker after the team brought in Kai’mi Fairbairn as competition.

Returners: Rookie running back Tyler Ervin has seen his role grow weekly during the preseason. In addition to establishing a strong lead for punt and kickoff return duties, (aided by a 58-yard return against the Cardinals), Ervin is seeing more work on offense behind starter Lamar Miller.

OL: Against Arizona, the Texans’ offensive line protected the quarterback well, despite being without three starters. Center Greg Mancz stepped in for Nick Martin, who was placed on Injured Reserve after injuring his ankle. Mancz was solid in the contest. At right tackle Kendall Lamm filled in for Derek Newton. Lamm did a decent job but Newton returned to practice this week. Left tackle Duane Brown remains out, where Chris Clark played in his place. Clark has starting experience and the team may take their time with Duane Brown’s rehab. The Texans’ offensive line grades out as a mid-tier line, when completely healthy.

Texans Depth ChartQB: Brock Osweiler, Tom Savage, Brandon WeedenRB: Lamar Miller, Tyler Ervin (KR), Alfred Blue, Jonathan Grimes,Akeem Hunt, Kenny HilliardFB: Jay ProschWR: DeAndre Hopkins, Will Fuller, Braxton Miller, Jaelen Strong,Cecil Shorts, Keith Mumphery (PR), Wendall Williams (KR/PR)TE: Ryan Griffin, C.J. Fiedorowicz, Stephen Anderson, Anthony Denham, Eric TomlinsonLT: Duane Brown, Chris ClarkLG: Xavier Sua-Filo, Jeff AdamsC: Greg Mancz, Nick Martin (inj), Tony BergstromRG: Jeff Allen, Oday Aboushi, Kendall LammRT: Derek NewtonK: Nick Novak, Kai’mi FairbairnNT: Vince Wilfork, D.J. ReaderDE: J.J. Watt (inj), Christian Covington, Devon Still, Brandon Dunn,Jeoffrey Pagan, Joel Heath, Dan Pettinato

ILB: Brian Cushing, Benardrick McKinney, Akeem Dent, Max Bullough, Brian PetersOLB: Whitney Mercilus (S), Jadeveon Clowney (J), John Simon (S/J), Reshard Cliett, Tony WashingtonCB: Johnathan Joseph, Kareem Jackson, Kevin Johnson, A.J. Bouye, Charles James, Richard Leonard (inj)S: Andre Hal (FS), Eddie Pleasant (SS), Quintin Demps (FS),Antonio Allen (SS), KJ Dillon (SS), Kurtis Drummond (FS), Lonnie Ballentine (SS), Corey Moore

Indianapolis Colts

QB: After stating earlier in the week the starters would play into the third quarter, Indianapolis head coach Chuck Pagano wisely pulled Andrew Luck at halftime of Saturday night’s regular season dress rehearsal. Luck’s offensive line did him no favors against the Eagles, allowing six quarterback hits and three sacks. After the game Pagano was honest when asked how much the struggles of the offensive line had to do with Luck getting the early hook: “A lot,” he responded plainly. The line was a major reason Luck struggled and sustained injuries in 2015, and it looks like a problem again, especially after it was learned starting left guard Jack Mewhort will miss two to four weeks with a knee injury. Luck finished the game 13-of-18 for 134 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions. After Pagano said last week the backup quarterback job was still an open competition, he made it clear this week veteran Scott Tolzien is Luck’s backup. Tolzien beat out Stephen Morris, who had a strong game against the Eagles with 144 passing yards, a passing touchdown and a rushing touchdown. Morris will likely end up on the Colts practice squad, but his strong preseason could earn him a look from another team.

RB: Robert Turbin solidified his grip on the backup job, even if his best play against the Eagles won’t show up in the box score. Turbin took a handoff, made a defender miss in the backfield, then literally ran away from the rest of the defense on his way to what seemed like an 81-yard touchdown. The play was nullified when receiver Phillip Dorsett was called for holding cornerback Nolan Carroll. Turbin (4 carries for 24 yards) was the only Colts running back to get anything going on the ground against the Eagles. Frank Gore managed just six yards on four carries and Josh Ferguson continued his terrible preseason, rushing for five yards on four carries. It appears unlikely Ferguson will have an early season role, after turning 18 preseason carries into 13 yards and struggling in blitz pickup. The Colts added Stevan Ridley to the backfield mix after he was cut by the Detroit Lions earlier in the week. Lions coach Jim Caldwell said he believed Ridley still had "some juice left" after the Lions parted ways with the veteran. Ridley will compete with Ferguson and Jordan Todman for a

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roster spot. Todman continued his strong preseason with a special team’s touchdown and a 20-yard kickoff return against the Eagles.

WR: Each starting wide receiver played well for the Colts on Saturday night, but Donte Moncrief was the biggest story. Moncrief caught 6-of-7 targets for 58 yards, with five for 52 coming in the first half from Andrew Luck, including this pretty one-handed grab. Earlier in the week, former Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne raved about Moncrief on NFL Network. “He is going to be a stud in this league. You just watch,” Wayne said. “Donte Moncrief, he’s what you want as a receiver. He’s big, he’s fast, he’s physical, he can go over the middle, he can go over the top, he can make all the big blocks against linebackers, he’s probably the least-scared in that receiver room. He’s a tough guy.” T.Y. Hilton (three catches for 38 yards) played most of the first half and looks over the minor hamstring injury that kept him out of the second preseason game. Phillip Dorsett continued his strong preseason, with three catches for 49 yards, including a 39-yard catch and run. In the battle for the final wide receiver roster spot, Tevaun Smith continued to make his case with a 47-yard reception. His main competition, Chester Rogers, didn’t show up in the box score and was targeted only once.

TE: Dwayne Allen’s inauspicious preseason continued Saturday after he failed to register a target against the Eagles. A rebound performance after last week’s red zone fumble would have been encouraging, but Allen remains a good bet for low-end TE1 numbers this season. Basketball convert Erik Swoope caught one pass for nine yards, and appears locked into the third tight end roster spot behind Allen and Jack Doyle. “Erik Swoope continues to do some really good things, as a blocker and obviously in the pass game,” Pagano said early in the week. If Allen were to suffer an injury, Swoope would have more fantasy appeal as a receiver than Doyle.

Defense: The Colts secondary was dealt a crippling blow when it was learned early in the week stud cornerback Vontae Davis is expected to miss at least the first month of the season. Patrick Robinson, the starter opposite Davis, sat out Saturday night’s game with a groin injury. He is considered day-to-day. “It is what it is,” Pagano said regarding the health of his defensive backfield. “There’s not much we can do about it other than keep going. We’ll make the appropriate adjustments and Ryan (Grigson) and his staff will scour the landscape.” On Monday, that meant signing free agent Antonio Cromartie, who will likely step into a starting role alongside Robinson. To make matters even worse for the Colts secondary, slot corner Darius Butler also left Saturday’s game with an ankle injury, leaving the team without seven cornerbacks.

Returners: Quan Bray’s roster spot remains secure, and given the lack of threats to his job on returns, the second-year receiver is a decent bet to lead the NFL in return yards in 2016.

OL: Starting left guard Jack Mewhort suffered a knee injury in the preseason contest against Philadelphia. The injury was first believed to be a season-ender, but owner Jim Irsay tweeted that it was only a sprain and Mewhort would be out for 2 to 4 weeks. Mewhort has been the Colts’ most consistent lineman and losing him, even for a few weeks, hurts the team. Assuming Hugh Thornton regains his starting position, the Colts drop from 17th to 20th in the most recent rankings. Protection was bad even with Mewhort in the game and rookie center Ryan Kelly gave up a sack and two pressures. Quarterback Andrew Luck was pulled at halftime despite the coaches saying he would play into the third quarter. The team has not ruled out making a free agent acquisition such as Louis Vasquez or Jake Long.

Colts Depth ChartQB: Andrew Luck, Scott Tolzien, Stephen MorrisRB: Frank Gore, Robert Turbin, Jordan Todman (KR), Josh Ferguson, Stevan RidleyWR: T.Y. Hilton, Donte Moncrief, Phillip Dorsett, Quan Bray (KR/PR),Chester Rogers (PR), MeKale McKay, Tevaun SmithTE: Dwayne Allen, Jack Doyle, Erik Swoope, Chase Coffman, Mike McFarland (IR)LT: Anthony Castonzo, LeRaven ClarkLG: Jack MewhortC: Ryan Kelly, Jonotthan Harrison, Austin BlytheRG: Denzelle Good, Hugh ThorntonRT: Joe Reitz, Joe HaegK: Adam VinatieriNT: David Parry, Zach KerrDE: Kendall Langford (inj), Henry Anderson, Arthur Jones (susp),Earl Okine, Hassan Ridgeway, Kelcy QuarlesILB: D′Qwell Jackson, Nate Irving, Antonio Morrison, Trevor Bates,Josh McNary, Sio Moore (inj)OLB: Trent Cole, Erik Walden, Robert Mathis, Junior Sylvestre, Curt Maggitt, Sterling BaileyCB: Vontae Davis (inj), Patrick Robinson (inj), Darius Butler (inj),Antonio Cromartie, D′Joun Smith, Jalil Brown, Tevin Mitchel, Tay Glover-Wright, Frankie Williams, Darius White, Christopher MiltonS: Mike Adams (FS), Clayton Geathers (SS) (inj), Winston Guy (FS),T.J. Green (SS), Dezmen Southward, Stefan McClure, Lee Hightower, Andrew Williamson (IR)

Jacksonville Jaguars

QB: Blake Bortles and the Jaguars did not get off to the hot start that they have in the first two preseason games. Bortles had to battle all game for short yardage as he finished the night with 10-for-16 passing for 52 yards, without a single big play. “Well, we played pretty bad,” Bortles said after leaving the game at halftime. “I do not think we did a whole lot of things. We played bad at every position and usually that is

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what happens when you play bad - you do not score a lot of points.” Although it was a regression from the first two preseason games for Bortles and the offense it is nothing to get overly concerned about as some of the problems on Sunday were just fundamental as penalties and an early fumble helped to get the offense out of sorts early in the game. Bortles remains a fantasy QB1 heading into Week 1 as he has one of the best receiver duos in the league with Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns. Backup Chad Henne saw the reps in the second half and finished up the game with 7-of-15 passing for 75 yards and a touchdown pass to Neal Sterling.

RB: The Bengals first touchdown was set up by a T.J. Yeldon fumble on Jacksonville’s first possession deep in Jaguars territory. Despite the early fumble Yeldon battled back and actually looked like the best player on the field. He had an impressive 23-yard reverse-field run that helped to give the second unit a second-quarter spark and led the team’s lone scoring drive in the first half. Yeldon finished the game with 34 rushing yards on 5 carries (6.8 yards per carry), and also had a pair of receptions. Joe Banyard led the team with 11 carries for 54 yards and a touchdown. Banyard is pushing for the third running back spot behind Chris Ivory and Yeldon so a performance like this should really help his case. Ivory was relatively quiet with only 4 carries for 4 yards and a solo reception for 6 more yards. 

WR: The top five receiver spots are pretty much locked up, so at this point players are essentially auditioning for the practice squad or other teams. Tony Washington, a second-year player from Appalachian State, has flashed in camp and had a 36-yard catch and run against the Jets early in the preseason. On Sunday night against the Bengals he caught a pair of passes for 25 yards and also made a tough, end line leaping catch for a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter. Washington showed his strength in muscling the ball away from a bigger defensive back. Marqise Lee saw time with the first team offense and caught one ball for three yards on his two targets. Lee looks like he has won the third receiver role behind Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, which could develop into a pretty nice offensive role in this passing game. Allen Hurns was targeted four times, catching two of them for 25 yards. Hurns had an impressive 18-yard diving catch that helped pick up a first down. Allen Robinson caught both of his targets for 10 yards and also drew a long pass interference call down the left sideline to set up a field goal. Robinson is locked in right now and even in an off game he is finding ways to contribute and help get the ball down the field. 

TE: Julius Thomas caught 1-of-2 targets for just 4 yards against the Bengals. Bortles will continue to look for him in the red zone but he needs to start making plays if he still wants to see his share of opportunities. 

Defense: Myles Jack had a standout game and looks to be a force with his superior athleticism. He was anticipating where the play was going and was ready to make the tackle or blow

up every play. He finished the game with 2 solo tackles and 2 assisted tackles. Rookie Yannick Ngakoue started at Leo defensive end in place of Dante Fowler who was healthy and playing as a reserve. Bradley emphasized through the week the team would try to get young players snaps with the first team unit. Fowler had struggled to get pressure in his first two preseason starts. The play of the game came from linebacker Hayes Pullard III as he jumped a route and intercepted a pass from Licata and returned the ball 62 yards for a touchdown. 

PK: Sam Ficken made a 29-yard attempt in the third preseason game, but it was off of the upright. The 2015 UDFA probably didn’t help his case despite the positive result. Jason Myers seems secure entering the final week of the preseason.

Returners: Recovered from recent injuries, 2nd-year running back Corey Grant has seen his odds of making the roster as the team’s primary kickoff returner improve in the last week. While he’s not out of the woods yet, he remains the front-runner for the job in Week One.

OL: The line is still in flux, which is frustrating to note at this point in the preseason. Free agent acquisition Kelvin Beachum looked rusty in his first game action since tearing an ACL last season. Luke Joeckel, who had been starting at left tackle, looked confused at guard. The conservative move would be to keep Joeckel at tackle and let Beachum continue to rehab. However, the big contract Beachum signed coupled with the lack of picking up Joeckel’s fifth year option appears to be putting the coaches in a tough spot. The Jaguars’ offensive line grades out as a lower tier unit. Until the lineup stabilizes, cohesion will be a concern.

Jaguars Depth ChartQB: Blake Bortles, Chad Henne, Brandon AllenRB: T.J. Yeldon (3RB), Chris Ivory (SD), Denard Robinson (WR/KR), Corey Grant, Joe BanyardWR: Allen Robinson, Allen Hurns, Rashad Greene (PR), Marqise Lee, Bryan Walters, Arrelious Benn, Shane Wynn, Tony Washington,Rashad Lawrence, Justin Blackmon (susp)TE: Julius Thomas, Marcedes Lewis, Ben Koyack, Neal Sterling,Braedon BowmanLT: Luke Joeckel, Kelvin BeachumLG: Mackenzy Bernadeau, Tyler ShatleyC: Brandon Linder, Luke BowankoRG: AJ CannRT: Jermey ParnellK: Jason MyersDT: Malik Jackson (DE), Senderrick Marks, Roy Miller, Tyson Alualu,Michael Bennett, Sheldon Day, Abry JonesDE: Dante Fowler Jr., Jared Odrick, Yannick Ngakoue, Chris Smith,Ryan Davis, Jonathan Woodard (inj)

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MLB: Paul Posluszny, Thurston ArmbristerOLB: Telvin Smith (W), Myles Jack (S/M), Dan Skuta (S), Jordan Tripp (S), Tyrone Holmes, Hayes Pullard III (W), Sean Porter (S)CB: Davon House, Prince Amukamara, Jalen Ramsey, Aaron Colvin (susp), Nick Marshall (KR), Briean Boddy-Calhoun, Dwayne GratzS: Tashaun Gipson (FS), John Cyprien (SS), Josh Evans (SS),Jarrod Wilson (FS), Craig Loston (SS), Peyton Thompson (SS), Earl Wolff, James Sample (IR)

Kansas City Chiefs

QB: One of the bigger stories out of camp has been how solid Alex Smith has looked. “He’s highly intelligent and he just gets it,” said head coach Andy Reid. He’s entering his fourth season as the starting quarterback in Kansas City, and 2016 may prove to be his most productive one yet. The offense as a whole could be in line for a bounce with the return of Jamaal Charles and some emerging young talent at wide receiver. That’s not enough for Smith to enter the conversation as a QB1 for fantasy purposes, but you could do much worse for your backup quarterback on draft day. Behind Smith, Nick Foles is locked in for backup duties, and he is adjusting well to the Chiefs offense. One of the memorable plays from Saturday’s preseason dress rehearsal against the Chicago Bears was a 58-yard hookup from Foles to rookie Tyreek Hill. While the top two spots on the quarterback depth chart remain crystal clear, the battle for QB3 remains heated. Aaron Murray and Kevin Hogan saw limited action against the Bears, while Tyler Bray returned to practice this week after missing time with a back injury. The smart money says Hogan will be sticking around since he was a 2016 fifth-round draft choice, while Murray or Bray could find themselves on the trading block.

RB: As expected, Jamaal Charles did not suit up against the Bears. He’s resumed practicing in full, and continues to ramp up activities. All signs point to him being a full go for Week 1. “He’s looking good,” said offensive coordinator Brad Childress. Spencer Ware continues his impressive preseason run, and he delivered another solid outing against the Bears. He scored his third touchdown of the preseason on a one-yard plunge in the second quarter, and hauled in all four of his targets in the passing game. Ware was not much of a factor in the passing game last season, but he’s seen several targets over the past two preseason games. That bodes well for Ware’s chances of being the clear backup behind Charles, and it looks like he has bypassed Charcandrick West for the honor. West

was held out of Saturday’s game for precautionary reasons due to a minor elbow injury, but he’s been practicing in full. Running back is a clear position of strength for the Chiefs, and they are set-up well if disaster were to strike again on the Charles front. Behind Ware, Knile Davis and Darrin Reaves saw the most carries against the Bears with five apiece. Davis will likely be relegated to returner duties, while the Chiefs have been very pleased with what they have seen out of Reaves in camp.

WR: Jeremy Maclin has been dialed in throughout the preseason. The first-team offense has looked particularly impressive, and it’s clear that the chemistry between Smith and Maclin continues to grow. Last season, there wasn’t anything worth discussing on depth chart behind Maclin, but that may be changing. “So many young guys have stepped in and made some plays as well. I’m excited with what we have. Excited with how coach Reid is going to use us. If we clean the stuff up in the red zone, I think we’ll be pretty good,” Maclin said. One of the younger receivers that has asserted himself is second-year pro Chris Conley. He’s been impressive throughout camp and the preseason, and he appears to be ready to take over the WR2 role opposite Maclin. Despite an unimpressive outing against the Bears in which he hauled in only one of his four targets, Albert Wilson should see the bulk of the time in three-receiver sets. The remainder of the depth chart continues to take shape. Rookies Tyreek Hill and Demarcus Robinson appear assured of roster spots as both players have flashed this summer. That leaves Rod Streater, De’Anthony Thomas, Frankie Hammond and others to battle for the final spots, with special teams contributions looking like a strong determining factor.

TE: It’s been a relatively quiet summer for Travis Kelce, but the third-year pro remains a key cog in the offense. He snagged all three of his targets against the Bears, and each of them were on key third-down conversions. For Kelce’s part, he’s excited about his role in the offense. “That’s the thing with coach Reid, as long as you show him you’re going to grow as a player and keep perfecting your craft, he’s going to give you the ability to make plays all over the field. I can’t complain about that,” he said. Kelce is going off the board as a top-five tight end, and he can easily deliver on those expectations. Tight end is another position of strength for the Chiefs, and all four of the players jockeying for position behind Kelce saw targets against the Bears. Demetrius Harris was the most productive, as he hauled in both if his targets for 27 yards.

Defense: The Chiefs received some very welcome news on Sunday when Eric Berry reported for duty and signed a one-year deal. He’ll start practicing with the team right away, and the focus will be on quickly getting him up to speed for the regular season opener. "I sat down with him and we chatted. He had a smile on his face and he's ready to go,” said Reid. On the field, the defense looked absolutely dominant against the Bears. That applied to both the first and second-team units,

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as the Bears got nothing going on offense. That’s a testament to the depth that the Chiefs have assembled throughout the roster, and also an impressive sign from a unit that has been without the services of Berry, Justin Houston and Tamba Hali throughout the summer. Hali will likely be ready for Week 1, but it could be a few weeks before we see Houston.

Returners: Darrin Reeves came into the game before Knile Davis, suggesting that the former starting running back and return man had fallen to 5th on the depth chart. This would be catastrophic for his chances of making the roster as a kickoff return specialist, and a large bump to the prospects of Tyreek Hill.

OL: The line had a decent performance during against Chicago. The unit did well in short yardage running opportunities, but did surrender some pressure, especially over the guards. Quarterback Alex Smith was able to scramble away and make plays regardless, and this might be something he has to do more of this season. Onlookers are impressed with the progress of right guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif (a.k.a. “The Canadian Doctor”), and Mitch Morse continues to do a great job at center, but the performance of Parker Ehinger at left guard remains a concern. Overall the Chiefs’ line are near the top of the mid-tier or bottom of the top-tier depending on your perspective.

Chiefs Depth ChartQB: Alex Smith, Nick Foles, Tyler Bray, Kevin Hogan, Aaron MurrayRB: Jamaal Charles (inj), Spencer Ware, Charcandrick West, Knile Davis (KR), Darrin ReavesFB: Anthony Sherman, Trey MillardWR: Jeremy Maclin (inj), Chris Conley, Albert Wilson, Rod Streater,De′Anthony Thomas, Tyreek Hill, Demarcus Robinson, Frankie Hammond, Da′Ron BrownTE: Travis Kelce, James O′Shaughnessy, Demetrius Harris, Brian Parker, Ross TravisLT: Eric Fisher, Jah ReidLG: Parker Ehinger, Zach Fulton, Jarrod PughsleyC: Mitch Morse, Jordan DeveyRG: Laurent Duvernay-TardifRT: Mitchell Schwartz, Reid FragelK: Cairo SantosNT: Dontari Poe, Chris Jones, Alamedu Ta′amuDE: Jaye Howard, Allen Bailey, Nick Williams, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, David King, Jimmy Staten, Efe ObadaILB: Derrick Johnson, D.J. Alexander, Ramik Wilson, Terrance Smith,Justin March, Tyrell Adams, Josh Mauga (IR)OLB: Tamba Hali, Dee Ford, Frank Zombo, Dezman Moses, Dadi Lhomme Nicolas, Andy Malumba, Justin Houston (PUP)CB: Marcus Peters, Phillip Gaines, Steven Nelson, Keivarae Russell,Kenneth Acker, Marcus Cooper, Eric Murray, D.J. White, Deveron Carr, Shannon

Edwards, Shakiel Rudolph, Vernon HarrisS: Eric Berry (SS), Ron Parker (FS), Daniel Sorenson (SS), Jamell Fleming (FS), Brock Vereen (FS), Akeem Davis

Los Angeles Rams

QB: For the second time in three games, first overall pick Jared Goff left a game because he was hurt. The official line was that he was just “shaken up.” More importantly, Goff has been awful. He was expected to take the starting job from Case Keenum, because he's Case Keenum, but Keenum is way ahead of the rookie. There is no chance that Goff starts in Week 1 and unless something dramatically changes, he won't be starting by the end of the season either. The Rams appear comfortable with the Jeff Fisher regime so they won't be rushed into a decision.

RB: Todd Gurley scored a touchdown against the Chiefs in the second game of the preseason and sat down. It turns out, that was his whole preseason. Gurley is being protected by the coaching staff, in both games and in practices, so they won't have been happy when he threw himself into a scuffle during practice this week. He found himself planted on the ground in the bottom of a pile. Gurley was fine but it made for a story at the very least. Benny Cunningham started again and continued his stretch of impressive play. Cunningham is clearly ahead of the other runners but ESPN beat reporter Aiden Gonzalez said that Cunningham and Malcolm Brown would split carries in the event of a Gurley injury. That says more about how well Brown has performed through training camp and the preseason than it does about Cunningham. Aaron Green has the upper hand on Terrence Magee for the fourth spot on the depth chart but Magee broke off an impressive 73-yard run against the Broncos where he broke multiple tackles after fitting himself through a tight hole at the line of scrimmage. Green versus Magee will be an interesting battle to watch in the fourth preseason game. The Rams should still be looking at roster cut downs for options at running back.

WR: Tavon Austin got paid! If financial investment is indicative of future usage, Austin is going to play a huge role this season. The Rams gave him a four-year extension worth more than $10 million per season with a huge percentage guaranteed. Austin didn't touch the ball in the third preseason game though. Brian Quick has become an unpopular player amongst Rams fans over the course of this preseason. He has struggled massively with his consistency, meaning that Pharoh Cooper has moved ahead of him on the depth chart. At this point, Quick will likely be asked to earn his roster spot in the fourth preseason game, competing with rookie Mike Thomas and the other names at the bottom of the depth chart. Thomas has been one of the big disappointments for the Rams. He hasn't shown his potential or anything close to consistency. He

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should be a practice squad player because of his potential. Kenny Britt on the other hand has had an impressive preseason and remains the Rams' number one receiver. He has shown off a good rapport with Case Keenum. In Pharoh Cooper, the Rams are hoping they will get some big plays to compliment Britt even if he is forced to play outside to accommodate Austin in three receiver sets.

TE: Tyler Higbee is the Rams' best receiver. Higbee has dominated training camp and flashed repeatedly in games. He missed time last week but returned in time for the third preseason game. Higbee will likely remain the team's second tight end but his receiving talent is so far ahead of Lance Kendricks' that he should be on the field a lot regardless. Kendricks did have an impressive outing against the Broncos, he caught three passes for 36 yards. After being the talk of the week leading up to the game, Temarick Hemmingway didn't make an impact against the Broncos. Hemingway caught one short pass and should have caught another but lost control against contact. Being the third tight end on the roster won't lead to many opportunities to catch the ball, if any.

Defense: The search for a starting free safety has seemingly settled on Cody Davis. Davis started ahead of Mo Alexander in the third preseason game. Neither player has shone through training camp so starting the third preseason game is the greatest indicator that Davis will open the season in the starting lineup. E.J. Gaines returned to the starting lineup for the third preseason game. Gaines and Trumaine Johnson will open the season as the starting cornerbacks. Gaines is not only the second best cornerback on the roster but Lamarcus Joyner struggled to perform in his place while Gaines missed earlier stretches of practice. Joyner shows the same flaws of previous defensive backs, bad technique at the tackle point and positioning in zones. Alec Ogletree flashed as a middle linebacker against the Broncos but the focus in the front seven was on the defensive line. Robert Quinn had been managed throughout training camp and the preseason but made his first start against the Broncos. Quinn and Aaron Donald were at their destructive best while Michael Brockers also excelled. Akeem Ayers was exposed in run defense on more than one occasion. Mark Barron returned to practice.

PK: Greg Zuerlein made three field goals in the third preseason game, including a 48-yarder. He appears to have held off UDFA Taylor Bertolet to retain his job, but if it starts to go downhill like it did in 2015, he could be in danger.

Returners: With a new 4-year, $42 million contract in hand, Rams do-everything receiver Tavon Austin will certainly be looking to make a mark again on punt returns in 2016.

OL: The line has had mixed news of late. Starting left tackle Greg Robinson entered the concussion protocol after the Broncos game. Robinson should be ready for the opener but this situation bears observation. The team received positive news as right tackle Rob Havenstein was removed from the

PUP list and has returned to practice. Havenstein will not play in preseason Week Four but should be on track to play in the opener. Assuming Robinson returns that would send Rodger Saffold back to left guard and Cody Wichmann, who has been playing well, would unfortunately be sent to the bench. The depth is good news for the future however, as is the recent play of center Tim Barnes. The Rams’ offensive line grades out as a lower-tier option but they have youth at most positions and could rise up the rankings if left tackle Greg Robinson takes the next step in his development.

Rams Depth ChartQB: Jared Goff, Case Keenum, Sean MannionRB: Todd Gurley, Benny Cunningham (3RB/KR), Malcolm Brown,Chase Reynolds, Trey Watts, Aaron Green, Terrence Magee, Tre Mason (res)FB: Corey Harkey (TE)WR: Kenny Britt, Tavon Austin (PR), Pharoh Cooper (inj), Michael Thomas, Brian Quick, Paul McRoberts, Bradley Marquez, Nelson Spruce, Isiah Ferguson, Kain ColterTE: Lance Kendricks, Tyler Higbee, Temarrick Hemingway, Justice CunninghamLT: Greg Robinson, Isaiah BattleLG: Rodger Saffold, Garrett Reynolds, Cody WichmannC: Tim Barnes, Demetrius Rhaney, Eric KushRG: Jamon Brown, Andrew DonnalRT: Rob Havenstein, Darrell WilliamsK: Greg ZuerleinDT: Aaron Donald, Michael Brockers, Doug Worthington, Dominique Easley, Louis Trinca-Pasat, Cam ThomasDE: Robert Quinn, William Hayes, Eugene Sims, Ethan WestbrooksMLB: Alec Ogletree, Bryce Hager, Josh ForrestOLB: Akeem Ayers (S), Mark Barron (W), Marshall McFadden (RFA), Cameron LynchCB: Trumaine Johnson (UFA-F), E.J. Gaines, Lamarcus Joyner (FS/CB), Coty Sensabaugh, Marcus RobersonS: T.J. McDonald (SS), Cody Davis (FS), Maurice Alexander (SS),Christian Bryant (FS)

Miami Dolphins

QB: Ryan Tannehill completed 20-of-29 passes for 155 yards and an interception against the Falcons. He looked in control and has shown growth in his understanding of the playbook. Perhaps most intriguing from a fantasy perspective were Tannehill’s two carries for 22 yards. The Dolphins have been mixing in some zone read plays and Tannehill has been able to break out for some big gains in each of the past two preseason contests. Adam Gase is a creative play caller and should find ways to use Tannehill’s athleticism to advantage. It’s reasonable to expect Tannehill to triple his rushing output

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from last season. Veteran backup Matt Moore suffered a concussion in Week 2 and has been held out of practice, but is on track to be ready for the preseason opener. Rookie Brandon Doughty is on the roster bubble. He completed 12-of-16 passes for 87 yards against Atlanta. He has been accurate, but inconsistent. Quarterback coach Bo Hardegree said Doughty needs to “do everything faster.”

RB: The Dolphins have been taking an extremely cautious approach with Arian Foster throughout camp and he received just seven carries total in the preseason. Against Atlanta, Foster rushed five times for 10 yards and a touchdown. He also caught two passes for 20 yards. Foster has always been an excellent receiver out of the backfield, which could give him the advantage over Jay Ajayi as the two battle for playing time. The Dolphins have been very coy about how they plan to split time between their top two runners. "I have no idea what the plan is there," said Tannehill. “Honestly, to me, those guys can just plug and play. They both have different dynamic assets we can use, and whoever is in there, we feel comfortable with (them), and they're going to make plays for us. I don't think we really need to name a number one guy at this point or really at any point. I think we have good, stable backs that we can just pop in there and use them to the best of their abilities.” Damien Williams rushed five times for 17 yards and a touchdown. Williams has earned praise for his work ethic and consistency. He should make the team as the third back. Isaiah Pead injured his hamstring against Atlanta and is expected to miss a “couple of weeks.” The injury is a tough blow for Pead, who has been making a strong push for a roster spot with a fantastic camp. Kenyan Drake will make his preseason debut in Week 4 but appears destined for a redshirt year. The unexpectedly strong camps put together by Pead and Williams has the Dolphins considering keeping five running backs.

WR: Jarvis Landry caught four passes for 40 yards against the Falcons, but continues to have an up-and-down camp. He has suffered some uncharacteristic drops due to lack of focus and dropped another one against Atlanta. Landry remains Tannehill’s go-to option. Kenny Stills has been the star of the preseason for the Dolphins. He again led the team in receiving yards in Week 3, with four catches for 46 yards. The mercurial 24-year old is entering a contract year and has made major strides off the field. He is becoming a locker room leader. DeVante Parker remains a bit of an enigma. He flashes at times, but the production hasn’t been there. He had just eight receiving yards on four targets against the Falcons. Parker is a boom or bust fantasy option and the emergence of Stills could harm Parker’s chances of a breakout season. Leonte Carroo has fallen well off the pace in the battle for a starting receiver job. He played just eight snaps against Atlanta and has mustered just 23 receiving yards through three preseason contests. Carroo said he knows he needs to work on “little details” with route-running and wants to “come off the ball a lot faster.” Jakeem Grant should make the roster as the primary return man, but is expected to have only a limited role

on offense. He has not been targeted in the past two preseason games and played a combined total of just six offensive snaps in Weeks 2 and 3.

TE: Jordan Cameron has had a dreadful month of August and it looks like his confidence is shaken. He has been a “drop machine” and suffered another drop in Week 3 against the Falcons. He caught just one of his four targets (for six yards). Coach Gase has tried to move Cameron around to isolate him in favorable one-on-one matchups, but Cameron has not been able to make plays. He is borderline undraftable for fantasy purposes and is likely to split time with Dion Sims. Sims should see some involvement in the passing game, but has little upside. He is more of a blocking specialist. Rookie Thomas Duarte may not make the roster because he remains a major work in progress as a blocker.

Defense: Even though he’s 34-years old and coming back from a torn Achilles suffered last October, DE Cameron Wake looked surprisingly good in training camp and in his first action of the preseason in Week 3. He will be counted on as a pass-rush specialist and should be an impact player in that role. The strength of the defense is the line depth. The major concern for Miami is the cornerback position. Byron Maxwell is a solid veteran, but far from a lockdown #1 corner. The spot across from him has been a disaster, with Tony Lippett getting burnt consistently in camp and preseason. The Dolphins need second-rounder Xavien Howard to get healthy and play well early or they could really struggle against the pass. “I wouldn't say (Howard)’s far behind mentally because he's dialed in to what we're doing,” Gase said. “For the most part, he's playing one-on-one coverage a lot of the times. That's his strength and… we're going to try to lean on his strength of just matching him up with somebody and letting him go.” Howard will make his preseason debut in Week 4. Linebacker Jelani Jenkins is “week-to-week” after suffering a knee injury against Atlanta. “It’s going to be about how quick he can get his strength back,” Gase said. “Every person is different. It’s really (about) the pain tolerance (and) how quick can the rehab go. I can say there’s a possibility that that first game he’s good. We have to see how his body reacts to everything.” Spencer Paysinger or Neville Hewitt could have to fill in for Jenkins over the first couple weeks of the season.

Returners: With rookie returner Jakeem Grant continuing to draw rave reviews, it’s looking like a better bet that Miami’s top receiver, Jarvis Landry, will finally get a break from special teams. Should the rookie struggle during the regular season, though, Miami still has Landry available to take up the slack.

OL: Despite missing starting center Mike Pouncey from the lineup against Atlanta, the first team offensive line looked efficient. Anthony Steen got the start at center, and he was flawless except for one fumbled exchange on the snap. The team expects Pouncey back soon but Steen’s surprisingly solid performance could put to rest depth concerns at that position.

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Right tackle Ju’Wuan James had a stand out game, and the line as a whole appears far more solid than in past years. Part of that improvement has to be the play of rookie Laremy Tunsil, who appears to have finally won the left guard position from Dallas Thomas. Overall the Dolphins’ line ranks on the cusp between top-tier and mid-tier and they could move up quickly as they continue to gel.

Dolphins Depth ChartQB: Ryan Tannehill, Matt Moore, Brandon DoughtyRB: Arian Foster, Jay Ajayi, Kenyan Drake (KR) (inj), Damien Williams, Isaiah Pead, Daniel ThomasWR: Jarvis Landry (KR), DeVante Parker, Kenny Stills, Leonte Carroo, Jakeem Grant (PR), Griff Whalen, Rashawn Scott, Tyler MurphyTE: Jordan Cameron, Dion Sims, Thomas Duarte, Dominique Jones,MarQuies Gray (inj)LT: Branden Albert, Vinston Painter, Sam YoungLG: Dallas Thomas, Laremy TunsilC: Mike Pouncey, Jamil DouglasRG: Billy Turner, Jermon Bushrod, Kraig UrbikRT: JaWuan James, Ulrick JohnK: Andrew FranksDT: Ndamukong Suh, Earl Mitchell, Jordan Phillips, Chris Jones,Deandre ColemanDE: Mario Williams, Cameron Wake (inj), Jason Jones, Andre Branch, Terrence Fede, Dion Jordan (res)MLB: Kiko Alonso, Zach Vigil, Mike HullOLB: Jelani Jenkins (W), Koa Misi (S), Spencer Paysinger (S),James-Michael Johnson, Neville Hewitt, Danny LansanahCB: Byron Maxwell, Xavien Howard, Tony Lippett, Bobby McCain,Chimdi Chekwa, Chris Culliver (PUP)S: Reshad Jones (SS), Isa Abdul-Quddus (SS), Walt Aikens (FS),Michael Thomas (SS), Jordan Lucas (FS), Shamiel Gary, Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (IR)

Minnesota Vikings

QB: Teddy Bridgewater had an impressive showing versus the Chargers in the Week 3 preseason dress rehearsal. Unfortunately, Bridgewater suffered a major knee injury on Tuesday in practice that was later confirmed to be a full knee displacement and torn ACL. Bridgewater will miss the season, leaving the Vikings (and their playoff hopes) in veteran Shaun Hill’s hands. Joel Stave was 5-for-6 with 66 yards passing against the Charger and importantly didn’t throw an interception. The Vikings will probably bring in a veteran now that Bridgewater is on IR.

RB: Jerick McKinnon started in place of Adrian Peterson for the third straight preseason game and was very successful as he rushed 8 times for 56 yards, including a 35-yard gain on the

first run play in the new stadium. McKinnon also had 2 receptions for 9 yards. The run game has been a struggle so far this preseason with Adrian Peterson not playing so the efforts of McKinnon and his 7.0 yards per carry were very encouraging. Jhurell Pressley saw 9 touches in the game as he rushed 8 times for 23 yards and caught one pass for 8 yards. C.J. Ham continued to see touches in his third straight preseason game as he rushed for 21 yards on 9 carries. 

WR: Stefon Diggs continues to make plays and is the clear number one target despite the emergence of Charles Johnson and the addition of Laquon Treadwell. Diggs hauled in all five of his targets from Bridgewater and totaled 71 yards receiving.  Laquon Treadwell showed some life in the red zone in the second half as he caught a 15-yard pass and converted a 2-point conversion. He mainly played with Shaun Hill under center and on the 2-point conversion it was a lofted pass from Hill to the back of the end zone to Treadwell who was in one-on-one coverage. Treadwell used his big body to make the play on the 50-50 ball along with his long arms to soar over the defensive back. Coach Mike Zimmer liked what he saw in Treadwell on Sunday, “It was nice to see him, he made a couple catches. He had a nice inside breaking route down in the red zone and then the two-point play," Zimmer said. “It’s good to get him involved. He’s going to be a good player. He’s a lot like Mackenzie Alexander. He’s a competitive guy, works real hard, does a nice job.” Charles Johnson continues his fine preseason and finished up the game with 2 catches for 25 yards and looks to be team’s #2 ahead of Treadwell for now.

TE: Kyle Rudolph caught 3 of his 5 targets for 56 yards and a touchdown. The touchdown was an impressive catch over the middle. Rudolph did have a fumble earlier in the game in San Diego territory as he was fighting for extra yards. Rookie David Morgan put some pressure on MyCole Pruitt for the backup job as he continues to catch everything thrown his way; he caught two passes for 17 yards. Pruitt finished the game with one catch for 11 yards.

Defense: Mackenzie Alexander and Jayron Kearse each grabbed an interception. Kearse was in the right spot at the right time and caught an overthrown Mike Bercovici pass. Alexander made an impressive interception in the end zone on a pass from Bercovici, too. Harrison Smith also had an interception. 

Returners: Marcus Sherels’ reputation for surviving roster challenges at this point is nearly legendary, and 2016 should only add to that legend. With most teams’ return games a question mark; there are few surer bets than Sherels handling punts and Cordarrelle Patterson handling kickoffs for the Vikings in 2016.

OL: Joe Berger was given the start during against the Chargers. Could the team in fact be moving on from John Sullivan (and his bigger salary)? The writing appears to be on

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the wall. The performance of the line as a whole didn’t exactly prove that the swap would be an upgrade. Another area of concern is at left tackle, where starter Matt Kalil has been out a week with a leg injury, and it is not clear if he will be ready for the season opener. T.J. Clemmings has been getting reps in his place and he was victimized for several pressures and a sack. Kalil had better get healthy soon. The Vikings grade out as a top-tier line, with Kalil and Sullivan in the lineup. Without those players they might be a mid-tier unit or worse.

Vikings Depth ChartQB: Shaun Hill, Joel Stave, Brad Sorensen, Teddy Bridgewater (inj)RB: Adrian Peterson, Jerick McKinnon, Matt Asiata, C.J. Ham,Jhurell PressleyFB: Zach Line, Blake RenaudWR: Stefon Diggs (PR), Charles Johnson, Laquon Treadwell, Adam Thielen, Jarius Wright, Cordarrelle Patterson (KR), Mortiz Boehringer, Isaac FreuchteTE: Kyle Rudolph, MyCole Pruitt (inj), David Morgan, Rhett Ellison,Kyle CarterLT: Matt Kalil, Austin ShepherdLG: Alex Boone, Willie Beavers, Zac KerinC: John Sullivan, Joe Berger, Nick EastonRG: Brandon Fusco, Mike Harris, Jeremiah SirlesRT: Andre Smith, T.J. ClemmingsK: Blair WalshDT: Linval Joseph (NT), Sharrif Floyd, Tom Johnson, Kenrick Ellis,Shamar StephenDE: Everson Griffen, Brian Robison, Danielle Hunter, Justin Trattou,Scott Crichton, Zach MooreMLB: Eric Kendricks, Kentrell Brothers, Audie ColeOLB: Anthony Barr (S), Chad Greenway (W) , Edmond Robinson (S), Stephen Weatherly, Brandon Watts (W), Emmanuel Lamur (W),Alex Singleton (W), Jake GanusCB: Xavier Rhodes, Captain Munnerlyn, Terence Newman, Trae Waynes, Mackensie Alexander, Marcus Sherels (PR)S: Harrison Smith (FS), Andrew Sendejo (SS), Michael Griffin (SS),Antone Exum (FS), Jayron Kearse, Anthony Harris (SS), Melvin White (FS), John Lowdermilk (SS)

New England Patriots

QB: It turned out that the cut that Tom Brady suffered before the second preseason game was less severe than originally thought. Brady played in the third preseason game and underlined his quality. He made good decisions and threw the ball with precision. His highlight of the game came on a 33-yard touchdown throw to Chris Hogan where he dropped the ball over a defender down the sideline. A bad drop from Luke Kuechly saved Jimmy Garoppolo from what would have been an awful interception. Even though Garoppolo has shown well

statistically, it’s evident there will be a major drop-off while he’s under center.

RB: Dion Lewis needs another surgery on his knee and is expected to begin the season on the PUP list. It's unclear if Lewis will ever get back on the field at this point. Lewis' absence should push James White into a prominent role, especially during the first month of the season. White has featured repeatedly on screen plays during the preseason. LeGarrette Blount has solidified his status as the team's starter through training camp and the preseason. Barring an unforeseen Belichick move, Blount is in line for a big workload. After Blount, Tyler Gaffney and Branden Bolden are the primary backups. Gaffney has played well through camp and the preseason but Bolden is the more proven commodity. Both outlasted Donald Brown, who was released during the week. Rookie D.J. Foster made his debut in the third preseason game but at this point he is fighting for a spot on the practice squad unless he truly dominates the fourth preseason game to force the coaching staff's collective hand.

WR: The Boston Herald described Julian Edelman as “rusty” during his preseason debut. Edelman was targeted three times and caught one pass. He lacked chemistry with Garoppolo as his timing in routes stood out for the wrong reasons. While Edelman struggled to make an impression, Chris Hogan played well. Hogan caught five passes for 62 yards and a touchdown against the Panthers. Hogan’s role in the regular season game plan remains unclear because we haven’t seen everyone on the roster healthy yet. He’s done everything possible to earn regular snaps; his touchdown reception highlighted the different dimension he brings offensively. Hogan is bigger than Edelman and Amendola, and he has a greater catch radius against tight coverage when running vertical routes downfield. It looks more and more likely that Danny Amendola will begin the regular season on the PUP list. Amendola's absence gives Aaron Dobson a better chance to make the roster. Dobson helped his case by catching a 37-yard pass from Brady against the Panthers.

TE: After missing more than a week with a minor ailment, Rob Gronkowski returned to practice ahead of the third preseason game. He didn’t play versus the Panthers, but that’s nothing more than Belichick taking care of his most important player. Ahead of the third preseason game, Martellus Bennett spoke about going full speed for the first time all year. Ironically, he didn't catch a pass. A.J. Derby continues to play well; he added a 20-yard reception against the Panthers to further secure his status as the third tight end.

Defense: Terrance Knighton was released on Monday after a disappointing preseason. Vincent Valentine and Elandon Roberts received starts in the third preseason game. Valentine started alongside Malcolm Brown on the interior of the defensive line. On the outside, Chris Long and Trey Flowers started because of Jabaal Sheard's injury. Sheard's injury has lingered after initially being thought minor. One might view

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the acquisition of Barkevious Mingo as an ominous sign for Sheard's health. It's unclear if Mingo will play defensive end or linebacker for the Patriots, but he has the flexibility to do both. Mingo cost the Patriots a fifth-round pick, a relatively high price for a player who was likely going to be cut. Mingo never developed in Cleveland but could be put in position to thrive like Akeem Ayers was two seasons ago. In the secondary, cornerback Logan Ryan made his debut and started after missing all of training camp.

PK: Stephen Gostkowski was the best kicker in the league last year, but a missed extra point loomed large in the AFC Championship loss to the Broncos. He missed two field goals in the third preseason game, and remains one of the top kickers in football.

Returners: The Patriots find themselves with a glut of standout punt returners, with rookie Cyrus Jones taking the lead over veterans Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman. Should Jones struggle during the regular season, though, he’ll likely have a short leash with so much experience behind him.

OL: During Week Three against the Panthers, all eyes were on the right tackle spot, watching to see how Marcus Cannon would hold up in place of the injured Sebastian Vollmer. The answer, somewhat surprisingly, was not bad, as Cannon had what most observers characterized as a solid night. The same could not be said for starting left tackle Nate Solder who was flagged for a false start and allowed a pressure. Overall the line did not do a great job in run blocking. The right guard competition continues, with rookie Ted Karras getting the start but Chris Barker getting most of the reps. Jonathan Cooper (foot) returned to practice this week, as did Shaq Mason, who was out with a broken hand. It’s good that the team is getting healthy at those guard spots. Overall, the Patriots’ offensive line is a lower tier unit, and the recent upheaval isn’t helping matters.

Patriots Depth ChartQB: Tom Brady (susp), Jimmy Garoppolo, Jacoby BrissettRB: LeGarrette Blount (SD), James White (3RB), Tyler Gaffney,Brandon Bolden, D.J. Foster (3RB/WR), Dion Lewis (PUP)FB: James Develin, Joey IosefaWR: Julian Edelman (PR), Danny Amendola (inj), Chris Hogan,Malcolm Mitchell, Aaron Dobson, Keshawn Martin (KR/PR), Matt Slater, Devin Lucien, DeAndre CarterTE: Rob Gronkowski, Martellus Bennett, Clay Harbor, A.J. Derby,Michael Williams (IR)LT: Nate Solder, Cameron FlemingLG: Joe ThuneyC: Bryan Stork, David AndrewsRG: Josh Kline, Shaq Mason (inj), Tre Jackson, Jonathan CooperRT: Marcus Cannon, LaAdrian Waddle, Sebastian Vollmer (IR)K: Stephen Gostkowski

NT: Malcom Brown, Alan Branch, Vincent Valentine, Markus KuhnDE: Rob Ninkovich (S/DE) (inj), Jabaal Sheard (inj), Chris Long,Geneo Grissom, Trey Flowers, Barkevious Mingo, Rufus JohnsonMLB: Shea McClellin, Elandon RobertsOLB: Jamie Collins (S), Dont′a Hightower (W), Jonathan Freeny (S),C.J. Johnson, Kevin SnyderCB: Malcolm Butler, Logan Ryan, Justin Coleman, Cyrus Jones,Darryl Roberts, Cre′von LeBlanc, Jonathan JonesS: Devin McCourty (FS/CB), Patrick Chung (SS), Duron Harmon (SS/FS), Jordan Richards (SS), Brandon King (FS), Nate Ebner (SS), Vinnie Sunseri, Kamu Grugier-Hill

New Orleans Saints

QB: Drew Brees completed 9-of-12 passes for 78 yards and a touchdown versus the Steelers in the Week 3 dress rehearsal. Luke McCown completed 4-of-8 passes for 51 yards and Garrett Grayson closed out the game with 128 yards on 14 completions to go along with a touchdown and pair of interceptions. Pass blocking remains a concern entering regular season. “The one thing that's concerning and troubling right now is Week 3 of the preseason that our ability to protect and then our ability to rush the passer,” head coach Sean Payton said. “Those are two things I think that if you just watch the game that are concerning, obviously very concerning.” The Saints allowed just one sack for (-8) yards during the game, but pressure on the quarterbacks has been a constant issue this preseason.

RB: Mark Ingram (7 carries for 17 yards), Tim Hightower (8 rushes for 27 yards and an 8-yard reception), and C.J. Spiller (four carries for 20 yards and one catch) are locked in as #1-#3 running backs. However, the mix of reserves is unsettled, with Daniel Lasco (who suffered a head injury vs. Pittsburgh), Marcus Murphy (1/16/0 rushing with five targets for 3/9/0 receiving - he also suffered a head injury), and Travaris Cadet (4/24/0 rushing with five targets for 4/42/0 receiving, plus a fumble) all fighting for a roster spot. The final one-to-two roster spots at this position will likely hinge on performances during the final preseason game.

WR: According to the New Orleans' Times-Picayune, the Saints' top three receivers are Brandin Cooks (one target for 1/10/0 receiving vs. Pittsburgh), Willie Snead (four for 4/58/1), and Michael Thomas (one for 1/23/0). Brandon Coleman (two for 2/20/0) and Tommylee Lewis (three for 2/41/1) are expected to stick as well. Lewis had a long 31-yard touchdown that helped solidify roster spot. Snead has been working on his game, “I'm just feeling a little more comfortable in this offense. I definitely have a lot better timing with Drew (Brees) this year. I'm just starting to feel the offense now, reading coverages... Things are just starting to

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come together.”

TE: “Preseason is challenging in that you're mixing and matching different quarterbacks, different receivers, different offensive linemen,” tight end Coby Fleener (four targets for 1/4/0 receiving) said after Friday night's game. “That adds to the challenge of preseason, but I think another challenge is also learning from your mistakes... Unfortunately, we've made a lot of mistakes, but we hope we can learn from those and not take that into the regular season.” Fleener has had problems handling passes during the preseason, but he remains atop the depth chart. Fleener and Josh Hill (one target, zero receptions) are set at #1 and #2, respectively, but a lower-leg injury to Michael Hoomanawanui has apparently opened the door for Chris Manhertz to serve in the reserve/blocking tight end role.

Defense: The Saints' pass rush emerged as a concern during the third preseason game, producing little pressure on the Steelers' quarterbacks. “Just the consistency of whether it's coming from the inside or whether it's coming outside, we've got to look at the rotation, and we've got to look at who's doing it,” Sean Payton said. “We laid the groundwork throughout the whole training camp, we laid the groundwork for what we were trying to accomplish in the pass rush, stopping the run,” defensive end Darryl Tapp said. “We've got to get back in the film room, really break down what we were seeing from the offensive line of the Steelers and what our technique and alignments were calling for.” Cornerback Damian Swann has hit a rough patch during preseason and may be on the roster bubble, according to the New Orleans' Times-Picayune.

PK: In a still too close to call kicker battle, Kai Forbath and Connor Barth both made their extra point attempts in the third preseason game. The loser is going to be one of the top priority pickups for any team that needs a kicker.

Returners: The mandate to Marcus Murphy and Travaris Cadet at this point seems clear: make the team as a return specialist or don’t make the team at all. Should New Orleans not like what it sees from either player, it could instead opt to use C.J. Spiller and Tommylee Lewis— two players likely to make the final roster either way— to pick up the slack on returns.

OL: After the Pittsburgh game, head coach Sean Payton called the line’s performance “troubling.” Most of the concern focuses on the guard positions, where neither Tim Lelito nor Senio Kelemete have distinguished themselves. Andrus Peat has been moved around to nearly every position on the line. Peat and Lelito were both beat in high profile situations and it’s becoming a common occurrence from week to week. Left tackle Terron Armstead left the contest with an injury, but it was not believed to be serious. Despite all the drama surrounding the offensive line, they still grade out as a solidly mid-tier unit, based mostly on the strength of Armstead and center Max Unger.

Saints Depth ChartQB: Drew Brees, Luke McCown, Garrett GraysonRB: Mark Ingram, Tim Hightower, C.J. Spiller (3RB), Travaris Cadet (3RB/KR/PR), Daniel Lasco (inj), Marcus Murphy (KR/PR)FB: Austin Johnson, Sione HoumaWR: Brandin Cooks, Willie Snead, Michael Thomas, Brandon Coleman, Tommylee Lewis, Reggie Bell, R.J. Harris, Kyle Prater,Jared Dangerfield, Jordan Williams, Jake Lampman, Vince Brown (IR)TE: Coby Fleener, Josh Hill, Michael Hoomanawanui, RaShaun Allen, Chris Manhertz, Garrett GriffinLT: Terron ArmsteadLG: Andrus PeatC: Max UngerRG: Tim Lelito, Senio KelemeteRT: Zach StriefK: Kai Forbath, Connor BarthDT: Tyeler Davison (NT), Sheldon Rankins (inj), Nick Fairley, John Jenkins (NT), Lawrence Virgil, Ashaad Mabry (NT)DE: Cameron Jordan, Kasim Edebali (S), Bobby Richardson, Obum Gwachum, Darryl Tapp, Chris McCain, David Onyemata, D.J. Pettway, Matt ShaughnessyMLB: James Laurinaitis, Michael Mauti (S), Nathan StuparOLB: Dannell Ellerbe (W), Stephone Anthony (S), Craig Robertson (W), Davis Tull (W), Tony Steward, Erik Harris, Dillon Lee, Hau′oli Kikaha (PUP)CB: Delvin Breaux, PJ Williams, Damian Swann, De′Vante Harris,Ken Crawley, Brandon Dixon, Brian Dixon, Jimmy Pruitt, Kyle Wilson (IR)S: Kenny Vaccaro (SS), Jairus Byrd (FS), Vonn Bell (FS), Alden Darby (SS), Roman Harper (SS), Trae Elston (SS), Jamarca Sanford (IR)

New York Giants

QB: We keep waiting for the pieces to fall into place and yet the Week 3 dress rehearsal was as discouraging as the first two preseason games. Eli Manning and the first team offense simply couldn’t execute. The veteran passer completed 10-of-15 passes for 65 yards (4.3 per attempt) along with an interception. Manning is a proven veteran and we know he’s capable of great things in this offense (he set career bests across the board in 2015), but the passing game is going to be a true test of whether the preseason matters, because it better not. Through three weeks, Manning has completed 14-of-24 passes (58%) for 109 yards (4.5 per attempt), no touchdowns and an interception. Ryan Nassib’s nightmarish preseason turned around a bit, although his performance was highly unusual. Generally, when a passer completes just 6-of-19 passes (32% completion rate) for 69 yards, things went awry.

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Yet, Nassib threw two touchdowns and led the Giants to a come-from-behind victory against the Jets. Through three weeks, Nassib is 15-of-46 (33%) for 169 yards (3.7 per attempt) with two touchdowns and two interceptions. That’s not the kind of tryout he was hoping for as he gets set to enter free agency next year. The preseason struggles coincide with uncertainty about play-calling. OC Mike Sullivan called plays in the first two games, but head coach Ben McAdoo took over calling plays in the 1st half versus the Jets. Further confounding matters, Sullivan went up to the booth in the second half and appears to have re-taken play-calling. How this all comes together for the regular season remains a mystery – and that’s not a good thing no matter what the coaches say. "We switched up some play calling duties today. We took a look at a couple of different things," said McAdoo. "Just to get a different perspective. It was planned."

RB: The rushing attack fared no better than the passing attack against the Jets. As a team, the Giants mustered a mere 39 yards on 20 carries (2.0 per rush). Backup receiver Tavarres King led the team with 20 yards rushing. Among the running backs, Shane Vereen was the ‘star’ with a whopping 11 yards on six carries (1.8 per rush) while catching two passes for 18 yards. Rashad Jennings also had six carries but netted a 1-yard loss for his efforts. Rookie Paul Perkins ran four time for 8 yards (2.0 per rush). Entering the season, Rashad Jennings is the clear starter and Shane Vereen will reprise his role as the passing-down back and 3rd down specialist. What’s less clear is whether Paul Perkins or Andre Williams will be the backup on 1st and 2nd down.

WR: As noted, the passing game struggled and so too did the starting receivers. Odell Beckham was targeted four times but only caught one pass for 8 yards. Sterling Shepard caught his lone target for 1-yard as the Jets defense was on him immediately. On a brighter note, Victor Cruz returned to the lineup. He only caught one 4-yard pass, but the fact he was healthy enough to play 32 snaps was the major news. "It felt great, man, just to be with my teammates and put this 80 jersey back on and to get the love of the crowd and the people again and go out there and be in position to make a few plays as well. It was a great feeling," Cruz said. As teams get set for roster cut downs, the Giants have difficult decisions to make. Tavarres King has made a strong case for a roster spot. King caught two touchdowns in the second half and was easily the most explosive player on the field once the starters called it a day. King has earned a roster spot, but it’s not a given he can unseat Dwayne Harris, Geremy Davis and Roger Lewis.

TE: Matt LaCosse has never lacked talent, but he’s been unable to stay healthy and may well be placed on Injured Reserve after undergoing knee surgery this week. He was a long shot for the 53-man roster anyway. Will Tye and Larry Donnell have matched one another step for step and it looks like both will be used interchangeably to start the year. Rookie Jerrell Adams is a work in progress, but he should make the team given his off-the-charts long-term upside.

Defense: The defense was more encouraging versus the Jets, although consistency remains an issue. The Giants held the Jets to 234 yards passing (61.8 passer rating) and 79 yards rushing (2.6 per rush) and notched two sacks and two interceptions. Kerry Wynn had the play of the game with a 73-yard interception returned for a touchdown. Damon Harrison made a statement against his former team, with a team-leading seven tackles, a sack and forced fumble. Rookie cornerback Eli Apple was also a standout; he shut down the Jets receivers with ease. The Giants took some flak for ‘reaching’ for Apple in the 1st round, but his preseason speaks well of the selection.

PK: The Giants signed Randy Bullock to at least kick in Week 1 while Josh Brown is suspended for a domestic violence policy violation. Brown apparently violated a protective order after his arrest, but his suspension remains at only one game, instead of the six prescribed by the league policy.

Returners: With job security in the form of a long-term contract, Dwayne Harris remains the prohibitive favorite to be New York’s top returner on opening weekend. Veteran back Bobby Rainey is trying to make inroads, but likely faces an uphill climb to make the final 53-man roster.

OL: The entire first team offense had a rough time against their local rival Jets, and the offensive line shared some blame. Without Justin Pugh, who is still resting a sore shoulder, the line did not generate much push on running downs and had trouble keeping the quarterback clean in pass protection. Eli Manning took some big hits but at least two of those occasions were actually the fault of the running back and tight end. Pugh should be back for the opener and Bobby Hart, who has been subbing for Pugh at guard, should again challenge Marshall Newhouse at right tackle. While this line certainly isn’t a strength of the team, they are not graded any worse than in prior years.

Giants Depth ChartQB: Eli Manning, Ryan Nassib, Josh Woodrum, Logan ThomasRB: Rashad Jennings, Shane Vereen (3RB), Andre Williams, Paul Perkins, Orleans Darkwa, Bobby RaineyFB: Will Johnson, Nikita WhitlockWR: Odell Beckham Jr., Sterling Shepard, Dwayne Harris (KR/PR),Geremy Davis, Victor Cruz (inj), Roger Lewis, Myles White, Tavarres King, Darius Powe, Anthony DableTE: Will Tye, Larry Donnell (inj), Jerell Adams, Ryan Malleck, Matt LaCosse (IR)LT: Ereck Flowers, Byron StingilyLG: Justin PughC: Weston RichburgRG: John Jerry, Adam GettisRT: Marshall Newhouse, Bobby HartK: Josh Brown (susp), Randy BullockDT: Damon Harrison (NT), Johnathan Hankins, Jay Bromley, Montori Hughes, Louis Nix

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DE: Olivier Vernon, Jason Pierre-Paul, Kerry Wynn, Owa Odighizuwa, Stansly MapongaMLB: Jasper Brinkley, Keenan Robinson, Kelvin Sheppard, B.J. Goodson (M), Uani Unga (IR)OLB: Devon Kennard (S), Jonathan Casillas (W) (inj), Mark Herzlich (S), J.T. Thomas (W), Nico JohnsonCB: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Janoris Jenkins, Leon Hall (inj),Eli Apple, Trevin Wade, Bennett Jackson, Leon McFadden (RFA)S: Landon Collins (FS), Darian Thompson (SS), Nat Berhe (SS),Mykkele Thompson (FS), Justin Currie (SS), Andrew Adams

New York Jets

QB: The quarterback position remains a concern. At the beginning of camp, everyone predicted that while Ryan Fitzpatrick would look a little rusty at first, he’d get it together. That hasn’t happened, at least not consistently. Saturday’s game against the New York Giants continued the trend of slow starts and erratic passes. He was nearly picked off twice, was off target on too many passes and continues to stare down his receivers. Fitzpatrick at least finished the night with a touchdown pass to Eric Decker. The pass was the best we have seen from him, a great back-shoulder throw to Decker who was in super-tight coverage. The problem is nobody behind him is ready to take over the mantle. Bryce Petty had a rough outing, throwing a pick six on his last pass. On the play, either he threw the ball to the wrong spot or running back Tommy Bohanon ran the wrong route. Geno Smith completed three-of-five passes, and was once again roundly booed as both of his series ended in punts. His line for the preseason is now 17 of 32 passes for 140 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Whereas it once seemed sure the team could and would keep four quarterbacks, it’s hard to feel Smith brings much to the table. Christian Hackenberg made his debut, and his first series was excellent. The rookie led the offense 75 yards down the field and hit Zach Sudfeld, fellow rookie Charone Peake and Robby Anderson with precision passes before capping it with a 10-yard touchdown fade to Anderson. It wasn’t all perfect though, as Hackenberg threw an ugly interception on third-and-7 from the Jets' 5-yard line. The pass was down the middle of the field and Hackenberg rushed it when he shouldn’t have. After the game, coach Todd Bowles said, “He was up and down, he missed some throws, but he made some throws. It was good to get his feet wet.”

RB: Matt Forte made his Jets debut and looked sharp. His stats weren’t impressive (10 carries for 28 yards) but the veteran showed no ill effects from his injury. He made sharp cuts, was a receiving target out of the backfield and should a key addition. Bilal Powell continues to play well, but Powell only saw a little work against the Giants. Overall, Powell only got 14 snaps to Forte’s 20 and seven touches to Forte’s dozen.

The two will probably split touches in a similar ratio this season. With the Jets backfield still a battered mess, Antone Smith played quite a bit Saturday, but didn’t do much to excite. His 2.3 yards per carry was paltry, especially since he wasn’t battling the Giants’ starting defense. It is unclear how this will shake out beyond Forte and Powell, given how many running backs are injured right now. Guys like Smith and undrafted rookie Terry Williams might make the initial cut by virtue of being upright and not wrapped in bandages.

WR: The Jets were somewhat cagey as to why Brandon Marshall didn’t play on a day when the aim was to get some chemistry going on offense, but indications are that he has some hip soreness. Coach Todd Bowles admitted Marshall could have played but that he wanted to “… get him ready for opening day… and I think he’ll be there.” The offense definitely missed him, although it has been struggling so much this preseason that it can be difficult to see the difference. That said, with Quincy Enunwa also out, Eric Decker had to do the heavy lifting and while he played well, it’s too easy to focus on him and he doesn’t provide the same matchup issues for defenses that Marshall does. The result was four punts and a fumble by Ryan Fitzpatrick before he managed a nice back-shoulder throw to Decker for a touchdown. That score came with Decker up against high-paid Giants corner Janoris Jenkins in tight coverage and was a great example of the chemistry the two have developed. Decker knew just when to turn to get that ball and Fitzpatrick knew when and where it had to be delivered. Among the backups, Charone Peake continues to impress both in practice and games, while Robby Anderson is making a case for a roster spot as well, including coming up with two big catches when rookie Christian Hackenberg was under center. He’s battling with Jalin Marshall and Kyle Williams and there is almost no chance all three make the 53-man roster. Williams and Marshall both can return punts and kicks, so that could be the difference, but Anderson has impressed in camp. The Jets might decide to keep two, and moving Devin Smith to reserve/PUP list has cleared a spot to do it. It’s hard to imagine Smith finding room in this offense upon his return six games into the season. His continued injuries have really hurt his chances to stay on the roster long term.

TE: Jace Amaro continues to struggle, and now you can add a groin injury to his list of issues (including, but not limited too many drops and a lack of blocking ability). Zach Sudfeld played well and was on the field for 40 snaps, catching balls from three of the four quarterbacks in the game. Brandon Bostick was the other tight end to see significant time, playing 26 snaps, most often blocking. Kellen Davis saw 22 snaps, but was not part of the passing game.

Defense: The defense was the one thing the Jets could hang their hats on this preseason and that was again the case against the Giants. The defensive line was especially brutal to the Giants offense, and seeing Mo Wilkerson back in the saddle is going to give offenses some sleepless nights. The Jets want

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Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson, Steve McLendon and Leonard Williams on the field together and used McLendon and Williams as defensive tackles, with Wilkerson and Richardson as defensive ends. Clearly it worked as the Giants netted 47 total yards in the first two quarters. Darrelle Revis picked off another pass, and Calvin Pryor had Odell Beckham showing a bad case of alligator arms. Keep an eye out for safety Rontez Miles as well, as he is excellent on special teams and finds ways to be an impact player with the odd defensive snap he gets. Finally, Dee Milliner was the fifth corner on Saturday and seems to have been demoted again.

PK: Rookie UDFA Ross Martin hit a 55-yard field goal in the third preseason game, but he was still released when the Jets cut down to 75 players. He was competitive with Nick Folk earlier this summer and could get a call later this season for kicker tryouts. Folk has officially survived the challenge to his job.

Returners: Jeremy Ross and Jalin Marshall remain locked in a high-stakes battle for the kickoff return job. The winner stays, the loser is probably cut. Both have a 50+ yard kick return to their credit so far in what has been a very close competition.

OL: Despite a shaky performance against the Giants, head coach Todd Bowles called right guard Brian Winters “the most improved player in training camp.” The line as a whole did a decent job opening up holes for tailback Matt Forte, who made his debut. Right tackle Breno Giacomini remains on the PUP list and it’s becoming more likely that either Brent Qvale or Ben Ijalana start the season in his place. Onlookers believe Qvale held up well under duress and he could have the lead for the job. The Jets’ line grades out as a solidly mid-tier unit, regardless of who starts at right tackle.

Jets Depth ChartQB: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Geno Smith, Bryce Petty, Christian HackenbergRB: Matt Forte, Bilal Powell, Khiry Robinson, Dominique Williams,Romar Morris, Antone SmithFB: Tommy Bohanon, Julian Howsare (LB)WR: Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, Quincy Enunwa, Charone Peake, Robby Anderson, Jalin Marshall (KR), Kenbrell Thompkins,Jeremy Ross, Chandler Worthy, Titus Davis, Joseph Anderson, Devin Smith (PUP)TE: Jace Amaro, Kellen Davis, Zach Sudfeld, Brandon Bostick, Wes SaxtonLT: Ryan Clady, Brandon ShellLG: James Carpenter, Dakota DozierC: Nick Mangold , Wesley JohnsonRG: Brian Winters, Jarvis HarrisonRT: Ben Ijalana, Brent Qvale, Breno Giacomini (PUP)K: Nick FolkDT: Steve McLendon, Deon SimonDE: Muhammad Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson

(susp), Leonard Williams, Jarvis Jenkins, Mike Catapano, Lawrence ThomasILB: David Harris (M) (inj, Erin Henderson, Darron Lee, Taiwan Jones, Julian StanfordOLB: Lorenzo Mauldin, Jordan Jenkins, Trevor Reilly, Josh Martin,Freddie BishopCB: Darrelle Revis, Buster Skrine, Marcus Williams, Dee Milliner,Juston Burris, Darryl Morris, Dexter McDougleS: Marcus Gilchrist (FS), Calvin Pryor (SS), Dion Bailey (FS), Rontez Miles (SS), Ronald Martin (SS)

Oakland Raiders

QB: The Raiders offense finally clicked in Week 3 and Derek Carr was excellent in a little over a half of action. He finished the night 12-of-18 for 169 yards and a pair of touchdowns. “I was really excited to finally watch some film, and get some tendencies down, and really game plan…and go out there with that kind of mindset,” said Carr postgame. “It was nice to do that this week, and to go out and score some points. It was nice. It was good to move the ball, and show what we’ve been working on just a little bit, but we’re going to be playing them here again in a few weeks, so we can’t show too much.” The strong performance in the final dress rehearsal confirmed what observers have seen all offseason from Carr. “I think he was very successful throughout this offseason, and camp, and everything,” Head Coach Del Rio said. “I think it’s been a tremendous offseason for him. I feel really good about where he is. I think the fact that maybe other people can relax a little bit around him, maybe that helps. For us, we have, and we know that he’s had a tremendous offseason. I think you saw a couple examples of what we’ve been seeing.” Matt McGloin (8-for-13, 71 yards and an interception) and Connor Cook (3-for-6, 51 yards and an interception) were mediocre in the second half. McGloin has had a solid overall camp to secure the backup job. Cook is also considered a lock to make the team.

RB: Latavius Murray caught two passes for 19 yards and ran for zero yards on his two carries. Murray found little room to run in his three preseason appearances, but his head coach is not concerned. “We saw him last year,” said Del Rio. “We have a body of work under Latavius. For us the bigger question coming in was to find out who would be able to be the backup back for us.” Both DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard got extended looks with the first-team offense. Washington impressed again. He ran for 55 yards on eight carries and also caught a 6-yard touchdown pass. Washington should be the third-down back and top backup going into the regular season. After missing two weeks of training camp, Richard made his preseason debut against the Titans. He also ran well, with 35 yards on seven carries. He will start the season as the third back and could push Washington for the top backup job. Del Rio was impressed with the performance

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of his two rookie backs. “I thought they both ran hard, ran with vision. They make people miss, so I was pleased,” noted Del Rio. “Pleased with both of them really. They were pretty good in the returning game as well. So I think going into the offseason we were hoping we could develop a running back that could be a really good backup for us and it looks like we have a shot at having one of those guys help us, potentially both.”

WR: The pecking order at receiver is well established heading into the opener: 1) Amari Cooper, 2) Michael Crabtree, 3) Seth Roberts, 4) Andre Holmes, 5) Johnny Holton. Both Cooper and Crabtree are poised to have big seasons in their second year together in Oakland. Cooper caught all three of his targets for 52 yards and scored a 29-yard touchdown. Crabtree caught a 41-yard pass on a go route down the sideline to convert a third down. He and Carr have been spent much of their time at practice on perfecting their deep ball connection. “The sky is the limit for us,” said Crabtree. Del Rio said early in the week that Roberts was "being pushed" for the No. 3 receiver job by Holmes. Roberts responded with his best outing of the preseason. He had a terrific downfield block on a 17-yard scramble where he drove his man 20 yards downfield. Roberts also caught his only target (for 15 yards). Johnny Holton caught three passes for 54 yards and took another step toward cementing his spot on the 53-man roster. The speedy undrafted rookie out of Cincinnati has been a standout on special teams throughout camp.

TE: Clive Walford was open in the end zone, but Derek Carr sailed it over his head just before halftime. Walford has had a strong camp and has locked down the starting job with his well-rounded game. He has not been heavily targeted in the preseason however and is a TE2 for fantasy purposes. Veteran Lee Smith will be the top backup as a blocking specialist.

Defense: The starting defense had a rough game against the Titans. They gave up 276 yards (including 106 rushing yards). “We really haven't stopped the run the way we expect to this year,” Del Rio said. “Misfits continue to cause problems. We've got to get that cleaned up with the season approaching.” Middle linebacker Ben Heeney struggled last week against Green Bay and was not much better against Tennessee. He had three tackles, but was also replaced by rookie Cory James for large chunks of the first half. James could push Heeney for the starting job as he gains more experience. Starting Safety Reggie Nelson has an undisclosed injury and spent the past week working on the side with trainers. The best-case scenario for Mario Edwards Jr. is return in Week 2 of the regular season.

PK: Sebastian Janikowski made both of his extra point attempts and should be safe after his big salary put him in Giorgio Tavecchio’s crosshairs in a kicker battle.

Returners: With rookie running backs and potential kick returners DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richards both

performing well in camps and preseason, the odds of both making the final 53-man roster are on the rise. That would be bad news for Taiwan Jones’ chances of repeating as the team’s primary kickoff returner.

OL: The line had an effective outing against Tennessee. Led by new left guard Kelechi Osemele, the unit did a good job in both phases of the offense. They opened holes for the rookie scat backs and they kept most of the pressure away from quarterback Derek Carr. At right tackle, Menelik Watson continues to get the starting reps but his lead over last year’s starter Austin Howard has diminished. It is still not entirely clear who will start the season, but Watson appears to have a slight lead. Should he stay healthy the team will give him a chance to prove his value. Overall the Raiders’ offensive line are a clear top-tier unit, with excellent talent at almost every position.

Raiders Depth ChartQB: Derek Carr, Matt McGloin, Connor Cook, Garrett GilbertRB: Latavius Murray, Deandre Washington, Jalen Richard, Taiwan Jones (KR), George Atkinson IIIFB: Jamize Olawale, Marcel Reece (susp)WR: Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, Seth Roberts, Andre Holmes,Johnny Holton, K.J. Brent, Jaydon Mickens, Marvin HallTE: Clive Walford, Lee Smith, Mychal Rivera, Gabe Holmes, Ryan O′MalleyLT: Donald Penn, Matt McCantsLG: Kelechi Osemele, Jon FelicianoC: Rodney HudsonRG: Gabe Jackson, Vadal AlexanderRT: Menalik Watson, Austin HowardK: Sebastian JanikowskiDT: Justin Ellis (NT), Jihad Ward, Dan Williams (NT), Stacy McGee,Darius Latham (NT)DE: Kahlil Mack (S), Mario Edwards Jr. (inj), Denico Autry, Shilique Calhoun, Damontre Moore, James Crowser, Branden JacksonMLB: Ben Heeney, Cory James, John Lotulelei, Kyrie Wilson, Chase WilliamsOLB: Malcolm Smith (W), Bruce Irvin (S/DE), Aldon Smith (susp),Neiron Ball, Korey Toomer, Daren Bates, Neiron Ball, Perez FordCB: Sean Smith, David Amerson, D.J. Hayden, TJ Carrie (FS/PR),Neiko Thorpe, Dexter McDonald, Antonio Hamilton, Kenneth DurdenS: Reggie Nelson (FS), Karl Joseph (SS), Nate Allen (FS) (inj),Dewey McDonald (SS), Keith McGill (SS), Brynden Trawick (FS)

Philadelphia Eagles

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QB: The Indianapolis Colts defense is awful; it’s downright terrible. Let’s not forget that as we evaluate the Eagles performance in Week 3 of the preseason. But as my old coach used to say, “you play who is on your schedule” and to that end, the Eagles passed their dress rehearsal with flying colors. Sam Bradford saw extended action and was dynamic, completing 17-of-20 passes for 167 yards (8.4 per attempt) and 2 touchdowns to go along with an interception. Bradford’s backup Chase Daniel – who has been unconvincing this preseason – did well in mop up duty with 104 yards on 9-of-12 passes (8.7 per attempt) and a touchdown. Head coach Doug Pederson was understandably please with his starter’s performance: "Tonight kind of culminated everything, his hard work he's put in all offseason and through training camp," Pederson said. "This is the first week that Sam has had 100 percent of the reps and it showed tonight. His 17 for 20 is a high percentage, obviously, and the touchdowns."

RB: Ryan Mathews didn’t play long against the Colts but looked great nonetheless. He rushed for 31 yards on just three carries (10.3 per rush) including a 16-yard scamper that showed Mathews’ vision and elusiveness. Rookie Wendell Smallwood made his preseason debut but ultimately got a failing grade after leaving with a head injury; there’s a very good chance Smallwood will be inactive in Week One. Barner – who continues to defy the critics, was the clear cut number two and looked the part. He ran six times for 39 yards (6.5 per rush) and has done enough to warrant consideration in deeper leagues where handcuffs are commonplace. Byron Marshall is a long shot to make the 53-man roster but led the team with 40 yards on 10 carries on Saturday night.

WR: Josh Huff is decidedly on the roster bubble, but he did everything within his power to stake a claim to a 53-man roster spot against the Colts. Huff ran twice for 10 yards and a touchdown while catching two passes for 60 yards including a 38-yarder. The surprise of the night was Dorial Green-Beckham taking snaps with the first team just one week into his Eagles tenure. Green-Beckham was uneven, but did catch two of three targets for 15 yards and a touchdown. Nelson Agholor was supposed to use this dress rehearsal as a statement to the league that he’s ready for prime time. Instead he instantiated all of the fears and criticisms that analysts have heaped upon him; Agholor failed to catch his lone target and was responsible for an interception. Chris Givens was running with the first team just two weeks ago, but was released on Sunday. Rueben Randle was competing for the same starting spot, but was also released.

TE: As we’ve noted throughout the preseason, Doug Pederson plans on utilizing the tight end as a focal point offensively. Trey Burton – the third stringer – would start for many teams and showed off his athleticism against the Colts with a five catch, 1-touchdown evening. Burton won’t have consistent fantasy value unless Zach Ertz gets hurt but don’t mistake that for a lack of talent. Speaking of Ertz, he’s set to be the Eagles top playmaker until Jordan Matthews returns from a bone

bruise. Ertz matched Burton’s five catches. Chris Pantale continues to make a case for a spot on the 53-man roster, and caught both of his targets for 7 yards.

Defense: The offense remains a question mark, but the Eagles defense has passed every test this preseason. It’s clear the defensive line has the chance to be disruptive regardless of the opponent, and if the team can consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks with a 4-man rush, it’s going to make the secondary look tremendous. Philadelphia is shaping up to be one of the value fantasy defenses this year; expect lots of sacks and turnovers (even if the team gives up yardage). Brandon Graham, Fletcher Cox, Vinny Curry, Bennie Logan, Beau Allen and Connor Barwin all made plays on Saturday. "They are playing aggressive, tenacious football," Coach Pederson said. "That's Jim Schwartz style of ball, man. That's what I wanted when I hired Jim Schwartz, and that's what you're seeing. Our defensive line is putting pressure on the quarterback with four guys."

PK: Cody Parkey missed an extra point in three attempts, while Caleb Sturgis made his extra point attempt and both of his field goal attempts. This kicker battle was already tilting heavily to Sturgis, and it is all but over.

Returners: With receivers Rueben Randle and Chris Givens cut this week, Josh Huff’s chances of making the final roster are all but assured, which keeps him the leader in the clubhouse for the kickoff return job. On punt returns, the only thing capable of unseating Darren Sproles is Father Time.

OL: Against the Colts, rookie left guard Isaac Seumalo sat out with a pectoral strain. Seumalo had been starting for Allen Barbre, who shifted over to right tackle for the suspended Lane Johnson. With Seumalo sidelined, Stefan Wisniewski got the start and looked sharp. Some onlookers are looking for Wisniewski to be the starting left guard, as the veteran is far savvier in pass protection. The Eagles’ line has settled down since the Lane Johnson suspension news broke and they currently grade out as a mid-tier option, primarily on the strength of left tackle Jason Peters and right guard Brandon Brooks. Should those veterans stay healthy, this will be a decent line until Johnson returns. With Johnson, they can be a top-tier unit again.

Eagles Depth ChartQB: Sam Bradford, Chase Daniel, Carson Wentz, McLeod Bethel-ThompsonRB: Ryan Mathews, Darren Sproles (3RB/PR), Kenjon Barner (KR),Wendell Smallwood (KR) (inj), Byron MarshallWR: Jordan Matthews (inj), Nelson Agholor, Josh Huff (KR), Dorial Green-Beckham, Chris Givens, Paul Turner, Cayleb Jones, Marcus JohnsonTE: Zach Ertz, Brent Celek, Trey Burton, Chris Pantale, M.J. McFarlandLT: Jason Peters, Andrew Gardner, Halapoulivaati Vaitai

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LG: Isaac Seumalo, Josh AndrewsC: Jason Kelce, Stefen Wisniewski, Barrett JonesRG: Brandon Brooks, Matt TobinRT: Allen Barbre, Lane Johnson (susp)K: Caleb Sturgis, Cody ParkeyDT: Fletcher Cox, Bennie Logan, Beau Allen, Travis RacitiDE: Vinny Curry, Connor Barwin, Brandon Graham, Taylor Hart,Marcus Smith, Ryan Mueller, Alex Mccalister (IR)MLB: Jordan Hicks, Stephen Tulloch, Joe Walker (IR)OLB: Nigel Bradham (S), Mychal Kendricks (W), Najee Goode (W),Bryan Braman (S), Travis LongCB: Leodis McKelvin, Nolan Carroll II, Ron Brooks, Jalen Mills (FS),Eric Rowe, Blake Countess, Jaylen Watkins (RFA)S: Malcolm Jenkins (FS), Rodney McLeod (SS), Jerome Couplin (SS), JaCorey Shepherd (FS), Chris Maragos (SS), Ed Reynolds(FS)

Pittsburgh Steelers

QBs: Pittsburgh has introduced a new “day on, half-day off” schedule for their quarterbacks this preseason. Between that and Ben Roethlisberger sitting out the first two preseason games, it’s clear the team wants to protect and preserve their franchise cornerstone as much as possible. His first preseason action was Friday night against New Orleans. Roethlisberger completed 12-of-17 passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns. The team utilized a no-huddle approach throughout. When asked if no-huddle was going to be part of the plan all year, the veteran quarterback said, “I think so. I think our base offense is going to be up-tempo.” The backup quarterback situation has been a story of the preseason. Once veteran Bruce Gradkowski tore his hamstring, Landry Jones had the job sewn up. Unfortunately, Jones threw four interceptions against the Eagles in Week Two leaving cause for concern; until this week when Jones bounced back with a 19-of-22 for 206 yards outing.

RB: Le’Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams made their preseason debuts against the Saints. Both running backs played with the first team, but Bell was on the field more often with Ben Roethlisberger and was clearly the more effective player. Bell ran three times for 21 yards (7 yards per rush) and caught five passes for 37 yards versus Williams who had 12 yards rushing and 9 yards receiving. It’s worth nothing that most of the first-team offense remained in the game after Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown were removed. During that time, it was Williams who played much more, with Bell only spelling him occasionally. It’s worth noting that the duo combined for nine targets. Neither Fitzgerald Toussaint nor Daryl Richardson did much to distinguish themselves in the battle for the third running back slot. Richardson is the

speedier of the two, but Toussaint’s fundamentals, and his special teams value, may give him the edge.

WR: Antonio Brown has been given the “kid gloves” treatment throughout the preseason, but he reminded everyone against the Saints why he’s the consensus top fantasy selection this year. Brown caught four receptions for 87 yards and a touchdown in limited snaps. Eli Rogers’ role appears to be as secure as any receiver not wearing 84 – which is noteworthy considering he was completely off the fantasy radar just a month ago. Rogers was targeted four times by Roethlisberger on just two possessions. He caught two passes for 17 yards, including a 3rd-and-10 conversion. Markus Wheaton started opposite Brown and had two catches for 40 yards including a beautiful 36-yard catch down the right sideline. Camp darling-turned-underperformer Sammie Coates bounced back with a 66-yard day including a 58-yard touchdown catch from Landry Jones. Coates is on the kickoff return team, though, a sign that he’s not in the offensive plans at this point. He was also used as a gunner on the punt return team, perhaps a tryout of sorts to see if he’s worthy of dressing on game days. Darrius Heyward-Bey is a key special teamer, too, meaning he could get the call ahead of Coates.

TE: Ladarius Green continues to be M.I.A. for Pittsburgh, leaving second-year player Jesse James as the starter. James is still struggling with his blocking at times, but he’s finding his way within the offense. He was involved while Ben Roethlisberger was in the game. The team drew up a tight end screen for him that worked to perfection but was called back on a questionable holding penalty which occurred after James had run past the defender who was held. He also caught the first touchdown. "A makeshift, scramble, backyard play," said Roethlisberger of the touchdown. "Happy to see Jesse, a new guy, make a play." Backup Xavier Grimble saw plenty of time as well and made two catches. The team certainly hopes James can be healthy and effective, though. No insight has been given on Green’s return, save for him saying he’s “holding out hope” for Week 1.

Defense: The biggest story defensively is the stunning lack of depth in the secondary. The back four is going to be littered with inexperienced players, and that’s even without an injury making things worse. But the front three for Pittsburgh is outstanding. Stephon Tuitt and Cameron Heyward are perfect 3-4 bookends. The talent and experience of the starting defensive line and the defensive backs couldn’t be more divergent, but the lack of depth is shared by both units. Heyward says he’ll be ready for Week 1, something medical experts are saying is possible. Expect opposing teams to target the Steelers via the pass; being stout up front but soft in the back will encourage a pass-heavy, run-light approach.

Returners: Preseason revelation Eli Rogers continues to impress, seemingly cementing himself as #3 in the pecking order at receiver and making a strong argument to be the man who finally takes punt return duties away from All Pro

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Antonio Brown.

OL: The team appears to be leaning toward last year’s starter Alejandro Villanueva to keep his position at left tackle. The team is aware of Villanueva’s shortcomings, but left guard Ramon Foster has been doing a great job helping chip block when necessary. Meanwhile, Ryan Harris, who had been alternating first team reps with Villanueva at left tackle, will be starting while right tackle Marcus Gilbert deals with his elbow injury. Gilbert has insisted that he will play Week One, but he also consulted Dr. James Andrews regarding possible surgery. In other news, the Steelers placed rookie tackle Jerald Hawkins on injured reserve. Hawkins had been out with a shoulder injury. Overall, the Steelers’ grade out as a top-tier line, with both center Maurkice Pouncey and guard David DeCastro among the best in the league at their respective positions.

Steelers Depth ChartQB: Ben Roethlisberger, Landry Jones, Dustin Vaughn (inj), Bryn Renner, Bruce Gradkowski (inj)RB: Le′Veon Bell (susp), DeAngelo Williams, Fitzgerald Toussaint,Daryl Richardson, Rajion NealFB: Roosevelt NixWR: Antonio Brown (PR), Markus Wheaton (KR), Eli Rogers,Sammie Coates, Darrius Heyward-Bey, Demarcus Ayers, Issac Blakeney, Levi Norwood, Shakim Philips, Tobias Palmer, Canan Severin, Martavis Bryant (susp)TE: Jesse James, Xavier Grimble, David Johnson (FB), David Reeves, Jay Rome, Ladarius Green (PUP)LT: Alejandro Villanueva, Ryan Harris, Jerald HawkinsLG: Ramon FosterC: Maurkice Pouncey, Cody WallaceRG: David DecastroRT: Marcus GilbertK: Chris BoswellNT: Daniel McCullers, Javon Hargrave, Lavon Hooks, Roy PhilonDE: Cameron Heyward (inj), Stephon Tuitt, L.T. Walton, Caushaud LyonsILB: Lawrence Timmons (R), Ryan Shazier (L), Vince Williams, Tyler Matakevich, Steven JohnsonOLB: James Harrison, Bud Dupree, Arthur Moats, Jarvis Jones,Travis Feeney, Anthony ChickalloCB: William Gay, Ross Cockrell, Sean Davis (SS/CB), Artie Burns,Doran Grant, Donald Washington, Senquez Golson (inj)S: Michael Mitchell (FS), Robert Golden (SS), Shamarko Thomas (SS), Ross Ventrone (FS), Jordan Dangerfield (FS), Jacob Hagen,Ray Vinopal

San Diego Chargers

QB: The Chargers have exercised caution with Philip Rivers this preseason, and he saw limited action in Sunday’s dress rehearsal game against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite the brief appearance, he was able to connect with two of his newest targets. Rivers connected with rookie tight end Hunter Henry for a seven-yard gain on the team’s first possession, and hooked up with Travis Benjamin for a 15-yard gain on the next series. The veteran signal caller never seems to be lacking in the confidence department, and he has high expectations for the club in 2016. “But I do think that our expectation is to win the division. Now, that’s our expectation and what we believe in here -- we can go from the very bottom to winning the division,” he said. For the Chargers to have any shot at making that a reality, they need to insure nothing happens to Rivers this season as the backup quarterback situation does not inspire much confidence. Kellen Clemens is the serviceable but unspectacular option directly behind Rivers, and rookie Mike Bercovici has apparently surpassed Zach Mettenberger for the third spot on the depth chart. Bercovici had a dreadful performance on Sunday that included two picks, while Mettenberger failed to see any action for the second consecutive preseason game.

RB: There has been a lot of buzz coming out of Chargers camp that Melvin Gordon may be in line for a sophomore bounce, and he continued to make his case with another impressive performance against the Vikings. He only had five total touches, but one of them resulted in a 39-yard touchdown. As he has throughout the summer, Gordon deferred credit to those around him. “It’s not just me; obviously I need help doing it. But it’s always great when you can go out there and make more and more explosive plays,” he said. It’s been a pretty uneventful summer for Danny Woodhead, but he remains in line for a large role in the Chargers offense. That role may have gotten bigger on Sunday, as projected RB3 Brandon Oliver was lost for the season with a torn Achilles. The injury to Oliver leaves the Chargers dangerously thin at running back. Dreamius Smith saw the largest chunk of the workload on Sunday, and he delivered mixed results. He produced an underwhelming 31 yards on 13 carries, but hauled in three of his four targets for 30 yards.

WR: As long as Philip Rivers remains behind center, there’s value to be found among Chargers wide receivers. Keenan Allen remains firmly entrenched at the top of the list, and the reports on him have been absolutely glowing throughout the summer. “Keenan has been unguardable this training camp. Whether working against Pro Bowler Jason Verrett in practice or Patrick Peterson last week, he’s showing that he’s a true number one,” said Chargers analyst Nick Hardwick. New addition Travis Benjamin has fit in nicely in his new surroundings, and he makes for a solid WR2 opposite Allen. Tyrell Williams has been one of the biggest stories out of camp. He’s soared up the depth chart off the strength of his performance, and he’s in the conversation for WR3 duties. Williams hauled in all three of his targets for 36 yards on

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Sunday. Dontrelle Inman is also in the mix for the third receiver spot, but the depth chart becomes a bit muddled from that point. Rasheed Bailey, Isaiah Burse and Dom Williams are battling it out to hang on through the first wave of cuts.

TE: As they have been with Philip Rivers, the Chargers have been cautious with Antonio Gates in the preseason. He was held out of the dress rehearsal game, but he’s been practicing normally all summer with the exception of a few veteran days off. Gates has also been serving as a mentor to Hunter Henry, and it appears to be paying immediate dividends. The Chargers are quite impressed with what they have seen out of the rookie tight end this summer, and there’s a good possibility that he’s earned himself a role in the offense as a result of it. “Henry has shown through his performances that he’s going to contribute to this offense in a very meaningful way. Not only can he make plays down the field, but he has a willingness and ability to block. That combination makes him very difficult to game plan against,” says Chargers analyst Nick Hardwick.

Defense: The Joey Bosa holdout has finally ended, and he’ll finally get to work. How quickly he can contribute meaningful snaps comes down to how dedicated he was conditioning in the offseason not to mention how quickly he grasps the playbook. The Chargers gave up 23 points against the Vikings, but head coach Mike McCoy walked away impressed with improvements in key areas. “Defensively we had a slow start, but the great thing during the game was the red area defense,” he said. Corey Liuget agrees, and he authored up one of the game’s key defensive plays with a big sack on a 3rd-and-goal play. “We can bend all we want, but we just cannot break,” Liuget said. In addition to Liuget, three other Chargers recorded sacks against the Vikings. Dexter McCoil was the biggest standout on defense for the game, as he registered 11 tackles.

Returners: Top kickoff returner Branden Oliver tore his Achilles in a brutal-looking injury in Week 3 of the preseason. The return position is nebulous entering the final preseason week now that Oliver and Javontee Herndon are both likely done for the season.

OL: Against the Vikings, Spencer Pulley (an undrafted rookie out of Vanderbilt) got the start at right guard for the injured D.J. Fluker. Pulley performed well and could be unseating Kenny Wiggins as the bench interior option. There has been no official word if Fluker will be in the lineup Week One, and Pulley may need to spot start in his place. During the game, starting right tackle Joe Barksdale left with an ankle injury after he was rolled up on by teammate Orlando Franklin in the first quarter. Barksdale tweeted after the game that he was fine, however, and it’s probably safe to assume he will start the season opener. Overall the Chargers’ offensive line grades out as a lower-tier option, but their strength is in run

blocking and they should be able to rise up the rankings if they stay healthy.

Chargers Depth ChartQB: Philip Rivers, Kellen Clemens, Bryn Renner, Mike BercoviciRB: Melvin Gordon, Danny Woodhead (3RB), Kenneth Farrow, Gus Johnson, Branden Oliver (IR)FB: Derek Watt, Chris SwainWR: Keenan Allen, Travis Benjamin (PR), Dontrelle Inman, Tyrell Williams, Isaiah Burse, Jamaal Jones, Dom Williams, Rasheed Bailey,Javontee Herndon (inj), Stevie Johnson (IR)TE: Antonio Gates, Hunter Henry, Sean McGrath, Asante Cleveland,Tim Semisch, Jeff Cumberland (IR)LT: King Dunlap, Chris HairstonLG: Orlando Franklin, Kenny WigginsC: Matt Slauson, Max Tuerk, Trevor RobinsonRG: D.J. Fluker, Chris Watt, Donavon Clark (IR)RT: Joe Barksdale, Tyreek BurwellK: Josh LamboNT: Brandon Mebane, Ryan Carrethers, Sean Lissemore (IR)DE: Corey Liuget, Joey Bosa, Damion Square (susp), Darius Philon,Tenny Palepoi, Ben GardnerILB: Denzel Perryman, Manti Te′o, Joshua Perry, Nick Dzubnar,Dexter McCoilOLB: Melvin Ingram, Jeremiah Attaochu, Kyle Emanuel, Tourek Williams, Jatavis BrownCB: Jason Verrett, Brandon Flowers, Casey Hayward, Trevor Williams, Craig Mager, Trevor WilliamsS: Jahleel Addae (SS), Dwight Lowery (FS), Darrell Stuckey (FS),Matt Daniels (SS), Adrian Phillips (FS)

San Francisco 49ers

QB: Colin Kaepernick completed two passes in six attempts for 14 yards versus Green Bay (regardless of his actions off of it), and according to The Mercury News Tim Kawakami, he sealed his fate with the poor performance. “Reality and rustiness interceded, and Kaepernick's unsteady second-quarter effort essentially sealed the deal. Really, it would've been a shock if Kaepernick was totally in rhythm. And he very much wasn't. Which makes things very simple. Whether or not coach Chip Kelly wants to announce it yet, Gabbert will be the 49ers' starting QB in Week 1.” Gabbert also threw for 14 yards versus Green Bay but he has consistently been the best quarterback in camp. Jeff Driskel hit 4-of-8 passes for 43 yards, while Christian Ponder didn't have much fun versus his

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old nemesis, the Packers (11 yards passing, an interception, and two sacks). Multiple reports on Monday suggested that Kaepernick may be on the way out of the San Francisco organization, in which case Ponder might hang around as the emergency quarterback. However, after the game head coach Chip Kelly said, “There's never been a conversation about cutting Colin Kaepernick.”

RB: Carlos Hyde averaged 7.5 yards per carry during his brief appearance versus Green Bay (4/30/0 rushing). He is set as the lead back, though he did suffer a concussion. Hyde felt ill after halftime and was taken to the locker room, where he was tested for a concussion. Hyde will not return to a full practice until he clears the NFL's concussion protocols, and is expected to miss the final preseason game (as most starters do). Though Shaun Draughn has been injured for much of camp (ribs injury) he is said to be head coach Chip Kelly's pick for the #2 job. Mike Davis (4/13/0 rushing and 2/20/0 receiving) and Dujuan Harris (6/28/0 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving) appear to be the favorites for reserve roles.

WR: The 49ers have acquired wide receiver/return specialist Jeremy Kerley from the Detroit Lions in exchange for offensive lineman Brandon Thomas, a league source confirmed. Last season, Kerley had 48 punt returns for 411 yards to lead the Jets. Kerley will be a depth player/special teamer for this squad. Bruce Ellington (slot receiver/returner) suffered a hamstring injury in the third preseason game and was placed on Injured Reserve on Tuesday. Jerome Simpson was released on Saturday. Simpson has been arrested three times on marijuana and/or alcohol-related charges since 2012 and served two three-game suspensions during the last four years. The steady erosion of the wide receiver stable means that the 49ers will likely start 2016 regular season with Torrey Smith, Quinton Patton, and Kerley as their top options.

TE: Blake Bell (two targets for 2/25/0), Garrett Celek (two for 2/14/0) and Vance McDonald (four for 1/2/0) all caught passes versus the Packers. Bell actually led the team in receiving. The offense didn't do much in the game, but the depth chart seems set with McDonald in the lead position at tight end (he has good chemistry with Gabbert, the likely starter during regular season), followed by Celek and Bell.

Defense: Defensive tackle Quinton Dial left the third preseason game in the second quarter due to a knee injury, and the 49ers announced soon after his exit that he wouldn't return. He'll be evaluated further as the week goes along. Starting linebacker NaVorro Bowman, safety Antoine Bethea and outside linebacker Ahmad Brooks did not play in the third preseason game, but are not injured, according to the Sacramento Bee's Matt Barrows.

Returners: Potential top returner Bruce Ellington returned from a sprained ankle in week 2 only to suffer a potentially serious strained hamstring in week 3 of the preseason; he was subsequently placed on Injured Reserve. With an ailing

receiving corps, the 49ers traded with the Lions for receiver Jeremy Kerley, who has plenty of return experience with the New York Jets.

OL: Against Green Bay, Anthony Davis made his debut at right guard, and coaches were pleased with his performance. Davis kicked inside from right tackle, which allowed Trent Brown to continue to start at that spot. Davis’ move is not great news for first round rookie Josh Garnett, but Garnett wasn’t pushing for starting reps even before Davis was moved. In related news, the team cut Erik Pears, who was the tackle signed to fill in for Davis after his abrupt retirement two seasons ago. The team also traded Brandon Thomas to the Lions, as the guard situation was getting crowded and his roster spot was in serious jeopardy. The 49ers’ offensive line grades out as a solidly mid-tier option.

49ers Depth ChartQB: Blaine Gabbert, Colin Kaepernick, Jeff Driskel, Christian Ponder,Thaddeus Lewis (IR)RB: Carlos Hyde (inj), Shaun Draughn (3RB) (inj), Mike Davis,DuJuan Harris, Kelvin TaylorFB: Bruce Miller (TE)WR: Torrey Smith, Quinton Patton, Jeremy Kerley, DeAndre Smelter (inj), DeAndrew White (KR/PR), Aaron Burbridge, Dres Anderson,Devon Cajuste, Bryce Treggs, Ryan Whalen, Bruce Ellington (IR),Eric Rogers (IR)TE: Vance McDonald, Garrett Celek, Blake Bell, Je′Ron Hamm,Busta AndersonLT: Joe Staley, John TheusLG: Zane Beadles, Ian SilbermanC: Daniel Kilgore, Marcus MartinRG: Andrew Tiller, Josh Garnett, Brandon ThomasRT: Anthony Davis, Erik Pears, Trent Brown, Fahn CooperK: Phil DawsonNT: Mike Purcell, Garrison Smith, Ian Williams (IR)DE: Arik Armstead, DeForest Buckner, Quinton Dial (inj), Glenn Dorsey (inj), Ronald Blair, Tony Jerod-Eddie, B.J. McBryde,Demetrius CherryILB: Navorro Bowman, Michael Wilhoite, Gerald Hodges, Shayne Skov, Nick BelloreOLB: Ahmad Brooks (S), Aaron Lynch (susp), Corey Lemonier, Tank Carradine, Eli Harold, Ray-Ray Armstrong, Marcus Rush, Jason Fanaika, Lenny JonesCB: Tramaine Brock, Jimmie Ward (FS), Chris Davis, Dontae Johnson, Will Redmond, Rashard Robinson, Prince Charles Iworah,Keith Reaser, Marcus CromartieS: Antoine Bethea (SS), Eric Reid (FS), Jaquiski Tartt (SS), L.J. McCray

Seattle Seahawks

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QB: Russell Wilson hasn't been at his best during the preseason, but he saved his best performance for the most important game. Wilson completed 16-of-21 passes for 192 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions and no sacks. One of his touchdowns, that Tyler Lockett caught, came when Wilson extended the play outside the pocket, eluding defenders and spinning away from a sack before bringing his eyes back up to locate Lockett in the endzone. It was a vintage Wilson play. The Seahawks haven't shown any indication that Trevone Boykin's spot on the depth chart is in question. He is the team's backup and put an exclamation point on that fact with a long touchdown run against the Cowboys that looked eerily like Russell Wilson.

RB: Thomas Rawls didn't make his debut in the third preseason game, so Christine Michael continued to shine. Michael is a hard player to hype because he has repeatedly been a preseason darling only to falter when the games matter. Still, it's encouraging to see the veteran hit holes with aggression while remaining aware of cutback opportunities. There is a plug-and-play feel to Michael's success as the blocking has generally been good, with Wilson's presence holding the attention of edge defenders through the hand-off. Rookie C.J. Prosise made his debut and drew praise. His explosion was evident. Prosise played with the first-team offense as the third-down back. Even though he hasn't been on the field much this summer, it's hard to envision Prosise not playing a big role once the regular season begins. Alex Collins and Zac Brooks will compete for the final running back spot, presuming the Seahawks carry a fourth running back, during the fourth preseason game. Brooks has outperformed Collins to this point but the team has more invested in Collins given his draft status.

WR: The receiving corps is set and the only question that remains is how many passes can Tyler Lockett catch? The second-year receiver looks like an emerging star as his explosiveness consistently leaves defensive backs in his wake. Against the Cowboys, Lockett caught a touchdown from Wilson by improvising to keep the route alive while Wilson extended the play outside of the pocket. He finished the game with three catches for 41 yards and the aforementioned touchdown. Doug Baldwin is locked in as the other starter and while he’s unlikely to match last year’s heroic 14-TD pace, he remains a sure-handed, trusted option. Jermaine Kearse is entrenched in the #3 role and showed well versus Dallas; he had three catches for 32 yards. Paul Richardson, the team's fourth receiver, had an even more impressive touchdown reception as he got beneath a pass that Wilson floated into the endzone. Richardson had a defender hanging on his back as he pulled the ball in with his hands. The converted safety is making a name for himself in Seattle after dealing with knee troubles in prior seasons. Tanner McEvoy caught a couple of big plays against the Chiefs from Trevone Boykin during the fourth quarter a few weeks ago. While impressive, his lone 43-yarder against Dallas was more significant because it came from Russell Wilson, not Boykin. McEvoy appears to have

pushed himself into contention for a roster spot as the fifth receiver.

TE: Jimmy Graham is practicing but didn't play versus Dallas; it's unclear when he will be available to play. Peter Carroll has taken on a decidedly more optimistic tone regarding Graham: “He looked great pregame. He was flying.” Luke Willson will be the starter until Graham is game-ready. Willson has always been a talented receiver but has worked on improving his blocking to earn more snaps. Will Tukuafu was active with the first-team offense against the Cowboys, suggesting that his spot as the team's fullback is all-but assured. Tukuafu's presence will take any potential snaps from Nick Vannett, though the rookie should still make the roster. Brandon Williams played ahead of Vannett in the third preseason game but Vannett should be prioritized as a member of the 2016 draft class.

Defense: Kam Chancellor returned to practice and played against the Cowboys. The star safety might wish that he had missed the game, though, as he was lit up not once, but twice by Cowboys rookie Ezekiel Elliott. The safety came out unscathed and Elliott isn't a small back, but it's clear Chancellor needs to regain his full physicality before the season opener. Michael Bennett was kicked out of practice for the second time this preseason for “being violent.” He engaged in a back-and-forth with wide receiver Doug Baldwin about “the code” that should be followed during practices. Bennett's roster status doesn't appear to be under any immediate threat, but between these infractions and his constant contract concerns, it's not hard to envision a divorce sometime soon. Against all odds, Jeremy Lane looks like the Seahawks second starting cornerback. Lane was the third cornerback to get a chance at the start of training camp. With rookie Jarran Reed out for the third preseason game, Tony McDaniel started on the defensive line. The Seahawks depth on the defensive line is very impressive.

Returners: There are few safer bets on special teams than Tyler Lockett. The second-year All Pro returner has fielded every return during the preseason while the starters were still in the game, and most of the names who have taken over once the backups took the field are considered long-shots to make the final roster.

OL: The Seahawks line continues to leak pressure but as Thursday night’s preseason game against Dallas showed, the mobility of quarterback Russell Wilson should still produce fantasy points. Maybe that’s their strategy, instead of investing big money in the line, cobble together a low-cost unit and rely upon Wilson to evade and make magic happen on the fly. The running game showed signs of life, as Christine Michael was able to find daylight at several occasions. The line looks better when they are pulling and trapping, compared to how they look sitting back and waiting on edge rushers. The Seahawks remain a lower-tier option.

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Seahawks Depth ChartQB: Russell Wilson, Trevone Boykin, Jake HeapRB: Thomas Rawls, Christine Michael, C.J. Prosise (3RB), Alex Collins, Troymaine PopeFB: Will Tukuafa, Tani TupouWR: Doug Baldwin, Jermaine Kearse, Tyler Lockett (KR/PR), Paul Richardson, Kenny Lawler, Kevin Smith, Kasen Williams, Antwan Goodley, Douglas McNeil, Jeff Fuller, Deshon Foxx, Tanner McEvoy,Uzoma NwachukwuTE: Jimmy Graham, Luke Willson, Nick Vannett (inj), Brandon Williams, Clayton Echard, Joe SummersLT: Garry Gilliam, Bradley SowellLG: Jahri Evans, Mark GlowinskiC: Justin Britt, Patrick Lewis, Joey HuntRG: Germain Ifedi, Kristjan SokoliRT: JMarcus Webb, Rees OdhiamboK: Steven HauschkaDT: Ahtyba Rubin, Jarran Reed, Jordan Hill, Tony McDaniel, Demarcus Dobbs, Quinton Jefferson, Justin Hamilton, Sealver Siliga (IR)DE: Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, Frank Clark (S), Cassius Marsh,Tavaris Barnes, Will PericakMLB: Bobby Wagner, Eric Pinkins (S/M), Steve LongaOLB: K.J. Wright (W), Mike Morgan (S), Kevin Pierre-Louis (S),Brock Coyle (W), Josh Shirley, Montese Overton, Khairi Fortt, Kache PalacioCB: Richard Sherman, Marcus Burley, Jeremy Lane, DeShawn Shead, Tharold Simon, Mohammed Seisay, Tye Smith, DeAndre ElliottS: Kam Chancellor (SS), Earl Thomas (FS), Kelcie McCray (FS),Steven Terrell (FS), Robert Smith (SS), Tyvis Powell

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB: Greg Auman of the Tampa Bay Times wrote after the Buccaneers' win vs. Cleveland: 'Jameis Winston piled up 259 passing yards and two touchdowns in the first half as Tampa Bay pulled away to a 27-3 lead on the Browns in Friday's preseason game, and some of the biggest throws were extended plays in which he stayed alive until a target came open... 'If you just look at that game, Jameis moved around a lot,' head coach Dirk Koetter said Saturday. '(Offensive coordinator) Todd Monken tells the offense all the time that our No. 1 pass play, when you think about it and you have all the concepts, is scramble.' Mike Glennon (2/7 for 13 yards passing) and Ryan Griffin (2/3 for 13 yards passing) are set as #2 and #3 quarter backs entering regular season.

RB: The Buccaneers have struggled to run the ball consistently, tying for 30th in the NFL with an average of 2.7 yards per carry during preseason. However, Doug Martin posted 4/18/0 rushing last Friday, an average of 4.5 yards per

carry, and he has been used sparingly during preseason while the team sorted out the depth chart below Martin. Storm Johnson was cut on Sunday, August 28 which may open a door for Peyton Barber to stick with the team (Barber had 9/16/0 rushing and one target for 1/6/0 receiving on Friday, 8/26). Charles Sims posted 4/13/0 rushing and saw three targets for 3/16/1 receiving during the game – Martin is the clear-cut starter entering September with Sims in the change-of-pace/backup role.

WR: As Martin Fennelly of the Tampa Bay Times spotlighted: Mike Evans is working to improve: 'I didn't catch enough touchdowns or enough balls last year. I had the opportunities, but I just didn't. I'm trying to make the most of my opportunities this year,' Evans said on Saturday, August 27. 'Well, Mike wants to be great,' coach Koetter said. 'But Mike, he knows he left plenty on the table (last year). He knows how talented he is. He also knows we missed him a few times.' Evans posted 5/115/1 receiving vs. Cleveland last week - he appears to be on the road to big numbers this season. Vincent Jackson (nine targets for 4/78/0) and Adam Humphries (five for 2/39/0) were the main targets for Winston vs. Cleveland. According to Tom Jones of the Tampa Bay times 'You even get the sense that... Winston is almost looking for him exclusively on third down. And who could blame Winston if Humphries is going to catch anything in his general vicinity?' Humphries also posted a 73-yard punt return for a TD. Behind the starting two/three receivers, the Buccaneers have Kenny Bell, Louis Murphy, Russell Shepard, and Donteea Dye in the mix - we'll see soon which reserves make the 53 man roster.

TE: Austin Seferian-Jenkins was the only tight end to catch a pass vs. Cleveland (one target for 1/5/0 receiving). Neither Seferian-Jenkins nor Cameron Brate made a huge statement in the game, leaving the starting tight end position in contention. Brate has been a preferred target of Winston during training camp/preseason, but here on the eve of regular season the two are officially considered co-starters according to the coaching staff.

Defense: After eight sacks were recorded Friday, Tampa led the NFL with an average 4.3 sacks per game in the preseason, according to Auman. 'We sacked them one out of every five times (they passed),' coach Koetter said. The Browns had 39 passing plays. 'That's a ridiculous ratio. That's not going to happen very often. If it does, we're probably going to win.' Rookie cornerback Vernon Hargreaves had two interceptions during last Saturday's preseason win against the Jaguars, then in Tuesday's joint practice with the Browns, he intercepted Robert Griffin III twice. 'His confidence skyrocketed since Day 1. Skyrocketed,' linebacker Lavonte David said after the third preseason game. 'All you need, for a rookie, all you need to do is just make some plays, make plays here and there, and your confidence boosts and your game takes over. That's what's been going on. You can tell he's carrying himself different now, has a little swagger to him. He's making plays

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and that's the reason we got him. He's doing what he's supposed to do.'

PK: After a tumultuous preseason, second-round pick Roberto Aguayo made three extra points and three field goals, including a 48-yard kick. This high note should help him kick with restored confidence in the regular season.

Returners: With a 73-yard punt return for a touchdown against the Browns on Friday, Adam Humphries might have taken out what little drama still remained in the battle for the primary job. A hamstring injury to top kickoff returner Donteea Dye injected drama into that race, though; if Dye won’t be ready by Week One, Bernard Reedy could fill in until he returns.

OL: Despite some different personnel during Week Three against Cleveland, the offensive line did an excellent job of pass protection. With J.R. Sweezy dealing with a multi-week injury and Kevin Pamphile attending the wake of his late mother, nominal third string left guard Josh Allen filled in and had a strong showing. At right guard, Evan Smith got the start for Ali Marpet, who injured his ankle in practice earlier in the week. Marpet was seen in a walking boot and it is not clear if he will miss the season opener. Overall, Tampa Bay’s offensive line is a lower-tier option due to a lack of elite talent, but they are clearly trending upward toward respectability.

Buccaneers Depth ChartQB: Jameis Winston, Mike Glennon, Ryan GriffinRB: Doug Martin, Charles Sims (3RB), Mike James, Peyton Barber,Russell HansbroughWR: Mike Evans, Vincent Jackson, Adam Humphries (PR), Kenny Bell (KR), Russell Shepard, Evan Spencer, Jonathan Krause,Freddie Martino, Bernard Reedy, Louis Murphy (PUP), Donteea Dye (IR)TE: Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Cameron Brate, Luke Stocker, Brandon Myers, Dan Vitale, Kivon Cartwright, Alan CrossLT: Donovan SmithLG: Kevin Pamphile, J.R. Sweezy (PUP)C: Joe Hawley, Evan SmithRG: Ali Marpet, Garrett Gilkey , Caleb BenenochRT: Gosder Cherilus, Demar DotsonK: Roberto AguayoDT: Gerald McCoy, Clinton McDonald, Akeem Spence, A.J. Francis,DaVonte LambertDE: Robert Ayers, William Gholston, Jacquies Smith, Noah Spence,Howard Jones, Kourtnei Brown, Cliff Matthews, Channing Ward,George Johnson (IR)MLB: Kwon AlexanderOLB: Lavonte David (W), Daryl Smith (S), Adarius Glanton, Devante Bond, Josh Keyes, Micah Awe, Luke RhodesCB: Brent Grimes, Vernon Hargreaves III, Alterraun Verner, Jude Adjei-Barimah, Johnthan Banks, Josh Robinson, Javien Elliott

S: Bradley McDougald (SS), Chris Conte (FS), Keith Tandy (SS),Ryan Smith, Isaiah Johnson

Tennessee Titans

QB: Marcus Mariota has completed 23-of-31 passes for 319 yards, one touchdown and an interception through three preseason games. He has also run five times for 33 yards. Mariota had arguably his best outing this week against the Oakland Raiders. The second year signal caller threw for 170 yards and ran for 20 while completing nine of 16 passes. A large percentage of Mariota's yardage came after the catch thanks to Tajae Sharpe, but Mariota also showed off his typical precision on intermediate routes to work the middle of the field. Matt Cassel remains an unimpressive backup while Alex Tanney expects to play a lot during the fourth preseason game.

RB: The Titans are sticking with DeMarco Murray as the primary runner. Murray started against the Raiders and received all the carries on the first two drives. He finished with 8 carries for 40 yards (5.0 per rush) and a touchdown. Dexter McCluster caught a pass too but didn't run the ball. As an older head coach it's no surprise that Mike Mularkey has never wavered in playing the veteran ahead of the rookie (aka Derrick Henry). So long as Murray doesn't completely collapse early in the year, he should be the primary ball-carrier for most of the season. That’s to say nothing against Henry; every time he touches the ball he gains more admirers. Henry led the team with 12 carries for 49 yards (4.1 per rush) and a touchdown to go along with an 8-yard reception. Bucky Brooks of NFL Network notes that Henry has shown, “better instincts, lateral quickness and agility than most observers expected.” Mularkey acknowledged that Antonio Andrews had the advantage over the team's other backs this week and backed it up by playing him in the third preseason game. Andrews played on offense but also on special teams, where he fumbled a kickoff return. Andrews probably won't be involved on kickoff returns during the season but he will be involved more on special teams than Bishop Sankey or David Cobb. Bishop Sankey didn't feature against the Raiders, David Cobb barely did, leaving Jalston Fowler's roster spot as the fullback all but secured.

WR: While Dorial Green-Beckham caught a goal line fade for a touchdown as a Philadelphia Eagles receiver, Andre Johnson dropped his opportunity on a similar play against the Raiders. Johnson played well otherwise (3 catches for 65 yards) as he ripped off two big plays including a 38-yarder going against vaunted cornerback Sean Smith. Johnson didn't have the biggest play of the game though; that honor went to rookie Tajae Sharpe. Sharpe should have scored a touchdown but he was caught from behind after initially being left wide open over the middle of the field. He remains the favorite for the

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Titans' number one receiver role as Rishard Matthews has limped his way through the preseason. Kendall Wright remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. Wright's prolonged absence threatens to disrupt the start of the regular season as there has been very little optimism or development over recent weeks. Justin Hunter is on the roster bubble while Tre McBride should be safe because of his value on special teams.

TE: Delanie Walker had one job during the preseason: Stay healthy. Some worried he failed at his goal after leaving the Raiders game early, but the diagnosis of “feeling ill” was a comfort. Walker should be fine for the beginning of the season. Craig Stevens decided to retire, meaning that Anthony Fasano will be joined by Philip Supernaw on the 53-man roster.

Defense: According to Paul Kuharsky of ESPN, Kevin Dodd played 26 snaps against the Raiders and was credited with one tackle. He played left outside linebacker and did manage to run Derek Carr out of bounds at one point even though he wasn't given a statistic for the play. As expected, Perish Cox didn't play because of his lingering ankle injury. Brice McCain started across from Jason McCourty. The Titans were hoping McCain would make an impression after missing time with injury; the team needs a boost after Antwon Blake's disastrous display against the Panthers. McCain's performance wasn't as bad as Blake's but it was far from encouraging. He missed a tackle and was dominated by slot receiver Seth Roberts on a block when Derek Carr scrambled. The Titans cornerback position as a whole is a major problem. Kevin Byard continues to impress and Mularkey hinted that he could be a starter. Fellow rookie LeShaun Sims got his hands on a couple of footballs against the Raiders. He should comfortably beat out Antwon Blake but he doesn't appear to be pushing for playing time with the first team when Cox, McCain and McCourty are all healthy.

Returners: Asked if Antonio Andrews had the speed he was looking for a kickoff returner, Coach Mike Mularkey said, “No, I wouldn't say that.” One player who has been drawing some excitement in recent days, however, is 3rd-round rookie safety Kevin Byard.

OL: The offensive line had success against Oakland, especially in the running game. The middle of the line surged forward during a short touchdown run from Demarco Murray and the right side with Chance Warmack and rookie Jack Conklin led the way for fellow rookie Derrick Henry to score. Left guard Quinton Spain continues to hold off Sebastian Tretola and Spain is officially locked in as the starter. The Titans’ line is looking solid. They grade out as a mid-tier unit with upside.

Titans Depth ChartQB: Marcus Mariota, Matt Cassel, Alex TanneyRB: DeMarco Murray, Derrick Henry, Dexter McCluster (3RB/KR/PR), Antonio Andrews, Bishop Sankey, David

FluellenFB: Jalston Fowler, Sam BergenWR: Tajae Sharpe, Rishard Matthews, Andre Johnson, Kendall Wright (inj), Harry Douglas, Justin Hunter, Tre McBride, Damaris Johnson, Andrew Turzilli (susp), Nick Harwell, Ben RobertsTE: Delanie Walker (inj), Anthony Fasano, Phillip Supernaw, Jerome CunninghamLT: Taylor LewanLG: Quinton Spain, Jeremiah Poutasi, Brian Schwenke, Josue Matias (IR), Bryon Bell (IR)C: Ben Jones, Andy GallikRG: Chance Warmack, Sebastian TretolaRT: Jack Conklin, Dennis KellyK: Ryan SuccopNT: Al Woods, Austin Johnson, Angelo Blackson, Antwuan WoodsDE: Jurell Casey (DT), DaQuan Jones, Karl Klug, Mehdi AbdesmadILB: Avery Williamson, Wesley Woodyard, Sean Spence, Nate Palmer, Curtis Grant, Justin Staples, J.R. TavaiOLB: Brian Orakpo, Derrick Morgan, Kevin Dodd (DE), Aaron Wallace, David Bass, Yannik Cudjoe-VirgilCB: Jason McCourty, Perrish Cox, Brice McCain, Antwon Blake,Leshaun Sims, Kalan Reed, Cody Riggs, Bennett OkotchaS: Da′Norris Searcy (SS), Rashad Johnson (FS), Daimion Stafford (FS), Kevin Byard, Marqueston Huff (FS), Josh Aubrey

Washington Redskins

QB: Training camp yielded mixed reports for Kirk Cousins, and there were fears that last year’s season was more fluke than breakout. We won’t know the answer to that for a few more weeks, but Cousins’ preseason performance against the Bills in the Week 3 dress rehearsal was unquestionably encouraging. Cousins completed 12-of-23 passes for 188 yards (8.2 per attempt) and three touchdowns and an interception. After trailing 6-0 in the second quarter, Cousins put together three dynamic drives leading to touchdowns passes to Ryan Grant (38 yards), Jordan Reed (20 yards) and Pierre Garcon (9 yards). Cousins was calm after the game, reminding fans and analysts that every NFL team has ups and downs in a game: “We’re going to have slow moments or slow quarters at times, and the key is going to be to find a way to circle the wagons and regroup,” said Cousins. “The body of work overall was pretty productive, but there were moments where it wasn’t as good as it needs to be, and we know that.” Colt McCoy finished the game by completing 7-of-10 passes for 59 yards.

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RB: Keith Marshall had the chance to make his mark versus the Bills and instead re-ignited fears about his durability. Marshall’s college career was hampered by injuries and his first NFL preseason is turning out the same way. Marshall injured his elbow on his first carry and had to sit. On Monday, Jay Gruden said Marshall will be out at least three weeks with the elbow and that Injured Reserve was a possibility. Fellow rookie Robert Kelley stepped up and might have made a case for a spot on the 53-man roster. Kelley ran for 51 yards on 12 carries (4.3 per rush) and looked capable of shouldering a heavy workload. “I definitely got some work in today, and I think it helped me out,” said Kelley. “Every time I get up there I try to put myself in a better situation to make the team, take advantage of the opportunity.” Matt Jones and Chris Thompson remains 1-2 respectively but they’re hardly sure bets to hold onto those roles as the season progresses.

WR: We’ve been telling you for weeks that DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon are having strong preseasons in what many viewed as make-or-break years. With Jamison Crowder and Josh Doctson looming, the veterans need to be difference makers. So far, so good. Jackson led the team with four receptions for 59 yards including a 39-yard pass that illuminated Jackson’s world-class deep speed. Garcon caught the aforementioned touchdown and had two receptions for 24 yards versus the Bills. Rashad Ross – everyone’s favorite preseason stat hog – was quiet with 1 catch for 5 yards. Ross may have trouble making the final roster in spite of his solid preseason; it will probably come down to Doctson’s health and whether the team decides to hide Doctson on the PUP list to start the year.

TE: Don’t look now but there’s been a Vernon Davis sighting. Davis has played a lot in the preseason but mainly as a blocker; the team decided to dust off his receiving skills this week with three receptions for 42 yards. Jordan Reed is going to be unstoppable when healthy, teams cannot cover him one on one in the red zone. Both Logan Paulsen and Niles Paul had two catches versus the Bills. We’ll see if Washington opts to keep four tight ends on the final roster.

Defense: The first team defense played well against the Bills, holding Buffalo to 6 points and five first downs. Josh Norman and Bashaud Breeland lived up to their billing as one of the NFC’s best cornerback tandems. Preston Smith continues to make plays in the preseason games and in every practice. It feels like he’s ready for a star-making season. The defensive line asserted itself in spite of missing Chris Baker. All-in-all, Washington’s defense has talent and could surprise this season if they can get some luck on the health front.

Returners: While Rashad Ross’s chances of securing an opening-day roster spot aren’t yet set in stone, his speed and experience keep him as the favorite to be the team’s starting kickoff returner. Top punt returner Jamison Crowder faces no such concern over whether he’ll make the team.

OL: All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams looked sharp his preseason debut against Buffalo. Williams had been out with a minor injury, and the offense looks better with him in the lineup. Right tackle Morgan Moses left the contest with an ankle sprain, but he is considered day-to-day and should be ready for the season opener. At center, Kory Lichtensteiger continues to be unsteady, as he was flagged for three holding penalties and his job is in serious danger. Newly acquired center Bryan Stork failed his physical and the team will be getting their conditional draft pick back. The team hoped Stork could win the job from Lichtensteiger. Despite the drama at center, the Washington offensive line grades out as one of the best in the league.

Redskins Depth ChartQB: Kirk Cousins, Colt McCoy, Nate SudfeldRB: Matt Jones (inj), Chris Thompson (3RB), Rob Kelley, Silas Redd, Mack Brown, Keith Marshall (IR)FB: Joe KerridgeWR: DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon, Jamison Crowder (PR), Josh Doctson (inj), Ryan Grant, Rashad Ross (KR)TE: Jordan Reed, Niles Paul, Vernon Davis, Logan Paulsen, Marcel Jensen, Derek Carrier (PUP)LT: Trent Williams, Ty NsekheLG: Spencer Long, Shawn Lauvao, Arie KouandijoC: Kory Lichtensteiger, Austin Reiter, Josh LeRibeusRG: Brandon Scherff, Takoby CofieldRT: Morgan MosesK: Dustin HopkinsNT: Jerrell Powe, Kedric Golston, Matt Ioannidis, Chris Bilukidi, Anthony JohnsonDE: Chris Baker, Ricky Jean-Francois, Ziggy Hood, Corey Crawford,Kendall Reyes, Cullen JenkinsILB: Will Compton, Mason Foster, Su′a Cravens (SS), Carlos Fields Jr., Steven Daniels, Martrell Spaight, Derrick MathewsOLB: Ryan Kerrigan, Preston Smith, Terence Garvin, Houston Bates,Trent Murphy, Junior Galette (inj)CB: Josh Norman, Bashaud Breeland, Kendall Fuller, Deshaun Phillips, Quinton Dunbar, Will Blackmon, Greg Toler, Deshazor Everett, Lloyd Carrington, Cary WilliamsS: DeAngelo Hall (FS), David Bruton (SS), Duke Ihenacho (SS),Tevin Carter (SS/LB)