The NFL preseason kicked off with notable matchups and key player debuts, as several teams made strategic decisions about their starters. The Atlanta Falcons will see quarterback Tua Tagovailoa take the field for limited snaps, with rookie Michael Penix Jr. still recovering from injury. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are resting quarterback Baker Mayfield, allowing backups to showcase their skills against the New York Jets, whose starters will play to gain more live-action experience.

By the Numbers
  • Tua Tagovailoa and other starters for the Falcons are expected to play roughly 10 snaps.
  • The Broncos’ Jarrett Stidham will play the first half, with Sam Ehlinger taking over in the second.
  • The Jets' young talents, including first-round picks, will get their first preseason action against the Buccaneers.
Yes, But

While the Jets are opting to play their starters for experience, some teams are resting key players to prioritize health and avoid injuries. This has raised discussions about the effectiveness of preseason games in evaluating talent and preparing for the regular season.

State of Play
  • The Falcons' Tua Tagovailoa is officially starting, but recovery for fellow rookie Michael Penix Jr. is ongoing.
  • The Buccaneers are missing Baker Mayfield and backup Jake Browning, which places pressure on their depth chart.
  • Both teams are assessing the performance of rookies and backup players during these critical games.
What's Next

As teams finalize their rosters, expect to see more starter participation in upcoming games, especially for those looking to solidify positions before the regular season. Coaching strategies will likely evolve based on player performances observed in these early preseason matchups.

Bottom Line

The initial days of the NFL preseason spotlight key player performances, team strategies, and the ongoing assessment of both veteran and rookie talent. With some teams prioritizing evaluation while others focus on player health, the dynamics of this preseason will heavily influence final roster decisions and the approach heading into Week 1 of the regular season.