What we learned from NFL preseason games: Geno Smith shined, Deshaun Watson didn’t
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Quarterback performances were a major storyline, with Geno Smith impressing for the Jets, Deshaun Watson facing boos and struggles for the Browns, and backup QB battles heating up in Dallas, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, and New Orleans.
- The Packers and Texans saw strong showings from their second-string running backs, while the 49ers received encouraging injury updates, including the activation of tight end George Kittle.
- The Chargers suffered a significant injury blow with center Tyler Biadasz placed on season-ending injured reserve due to an ACL tear.
- Several rookies and backups stood out, such as Bengals’ Dohnte Meyers, Chiefs’ Mansoor Delane, Raiders’ Fernando Mendoza, and Lions’ Derrick Moore, highlighting depth and potential across teams.
- Teams like the Bills and Jets managed wins despite resting many starters, while others like the Dolphins and Colts struggled offensively, underscoring uneven preseason performances.
