The NFL preseason may have just kicked off, but the hype train is already in full force across the league. As teams transition from training camp to facing real opponents in exhibition games, fans tend to jump to quick conclusions. However, with many teams resting their star players and some not playing any starters at all, it’s important to take the August games with a grain of salt. Despite this, some teams and young players have managed to make an impression early on, for better or worse.
Trevor Williams, the highly anticipated No. 1 pick for the Chicago Bears, lived up to some of the hype in his debut against the Buffalo Bills. Despite being compared to the likes of Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers before even playing in the NFL, Williams showed flashes of his playmaking ability. His highlight reel moment was a 26-yard pass to tight end Cole Kmet while on the run. Although his day ended after just two drives, Williams demonstrated that the Bears finally have a quarterback who can elevate their offense.
Williams was part of a quarterback class that featured six top picks, and several of his peers also had noteworthy performances in their preseason debuts. While these early showings may not necessarily foreshadow a successful season ahead, they do provide a confidence boost for fans and players alike.
Following Williams’ strong start, another rookie for the Bears caught attention. Defensive end Booker, a fifth-round pick out of Kansas, recorded 2 ½ sacks and three quarterback hits in his first preseason game. At 6-6 and 245 pounds, Booker is seen as a developmental pass rusher with immense potential. If he continues to shine against tougher competition, coach Matt Eberflus may have to find a place for him in a defense that struggled with sacks last season.
The Philadelphia Eagles have seen a glimmer of hope in their cornerback rotation, a position that had long been a question mark for the team. With veteran James Bradberry moving to safety, the Eagles now have multiple promising options at cornerback. Rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Kelee Ringo particularly stood out in a game against the Ravens, showcasing their skills both on the outside and in the slot. With Mitchell potentially covering the slot receiver and Ringo backing up the established corners, new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has a versatile secondary at his disposal.
In Green Bay, new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is emphasizing aggressiveness and creating turnovers in the Packers’ revamped defense. Fourth-round safety Williams, known for his ball-hawking abilities in training camp, made a strong impression in his preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. Williams forced a fumble and tied for the team lead in tackles. While second-round safety Javon Bullard is currently projected as the starting free safety, Williams’ knack for making big plays could earn him a role in the defense if he continues his impressive performances.
