Week 2 of the 2022 NFL preseason is upon us, and we know a little bit about everyone at the start of the regular season. Of course, this is largely a pointless exercise and shouldn’t be overemphasized — but we did see some standout performances that could point to a big regular-season success.
This is really what everyone should see here. Don’t worry about whether the rookie wins or loses or who actually wins. Pay attention to those who display skills that may indicate regular-season success, or which team is winning deep battles. That’s where the preseason can help.
Do not. 1: KaVontae Turpin, WR/ST — Dallas Cowboys
98 yards KR touchdowns, 86 yards PR touchdowns
If you want an impact, KaVontae Turpin is for you. This week, the Cowboys’ rookie absolutely shines on special teams. He had an extremely rare double-kick and punt for touchdowns, and those weren’t short-lived returns. He walked all the way from DEEP to the house. Can really highlight something special.
Do not. 2: Kenny Pickett, QB – Pittsburgh Steelers
6-of-7 for 76 yards, 1 touchdown
It’s not about the raw numbers (which is great), it’s more about Kenny Pickett’s two-week streak Impact. The rookie has shown composure in the pocket and ability to lead the team, and this week he was asked to do a little more with his arm.
There is now a reasonable discussion of whether Pickett could be a starter for Week 1, which seemed to be a no-no prior to training camp possible. I still don’t know if the Steelers will throw him to the Wolves like this, but for now, Pickett looks like the best QB on Pittsburgh’s roster.
Do not. 3: Alex Bachman, WR — New York Giants
11 catches, 122 yards, 2 touchdowns
If you want a feel-good story this week: here it is. Bachman is a small depth receiver who was an afterthought on the Giants’ depth chart. Now, thanks to this week and his special team skills, he might solidify himself as a member of the 53-man roster.
Bachman spends most of the day with third-string QB Davis Webb clicks, and he targets the catcher all day. It keeps producing results, so no harm no foul. Bachmann’s 11 catches were his most in a game (including college), and his performance was jaw-dropping, as mentioned above, and when he made key special balls The same is true when the team tackles.
This is a big day for the 26-year-old who will become a Players to watch.
Do not. 4: TY McGill, DT – Minnesota Vikings
5 tackles (2 solo), 1.5 sacks
McGill since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2015 , has been throughout the NFL. The Vikings are now in his ninth stop in the league, and he’s desperate to stick to a lineup.
Now he might actually do it.
The Vikings already have a solid line of defense, but McGill this season Has been an excellent player in the previous game. Against the 49ers, however, he really took over, showing the ability to eat space and penetrate. Those are things the Vikings desperately need, and I think we could see him become a force for the team.
Do not. 5: Isaiah May, TE – Baltimore Ravens
8 catches, 100 yards, 1 TD
Who needs a receiver when you’re on a budget? Mark Andrews, already one of Lamar Jackson’s favorite targets, is destined to join rookie Isaiah Riccoli, who was great against the Cardinals and was good after the catch Unbelievable ability to pick up the ball.
This can be huge. Andrews will command double teams this season as one of the best TEs in the NFL, and Likely’s presence will add a wrinkle to Baltimore’s offense that is hard to defend.
It’s too late to get too excited Early, but thanks to these two, this could be a big year for Lamar Jackson.
