The NFL Rookie of the Year awards are always a curious marker for success. In recent years we’ve had standout talent like Ja’Marr Chase and Micah Parsons win the award and go on to dominate the NFL, but dig just a little deeper and there’s guys like Eddie Lacy and Marcus Peters who ended up being small blips on the radar when it came to their NFL career.

The common thread when it comes to winning Rookie of the Year in the NFL is landing on a team that requires you to play immediately, and at a position where there isn’t a lot of talent, meaning a rookie can shine. Today we’re diving into the offensive and defensive sides of the ball to look at the guys who start the 2026 season in the best position to make noise.

Offensive Rookie of the Year

Carnell Tate, WR — Tennessee Titans

The stage is set for Carnell Tate to make noise with the Titans this season. Tennessee is going to be throwing the ball a lot to get back into games while Robert Saleh builds their defense over time, and when that happens rookie receivers in a shallow depth chart get a ton of opportunities. There’s also an impetus to call many plays that get Tate involved in the passing game with Cam Ward to develop their relationship as teammates.

It’s a similar situation to Tetairoa McMillan with the Panthers a year ago. Tate is in a position right now to stuff the stat sheet, and he’s my favorite to win the award this year.

Makai Lemon, WR — Philadelphia Eagles

Lemon is sitting at WR3 on the Eagles depth chart, which is the role he was drafted for. Working out of the slot in this offense will give him a lot of opportunities, and Philly brings the exposure needed to build a campaign. Lemon is also in a position where he could get a lot of targets from Jalen Hurts, and is in a rare situation among the rookie receivers where he’s landing on an elite offense.

There’s a chance he could become a key touchdown scorer this season, and I’m not entirely sure that being on an offense with DeVonta Smith will really hurt him.

Carson Beck, QB — Arizona Cardinals

Rounding out the top three is a quarterback, and not the one you’d expect. While Fernando Mendoza will absolutely get reps this season, I think he’ll start a little too late to really make a campaign. Instead I think that Carson Beck has the potential to be this year’s Tyler Shough, the second-day QB who starts earlier than expected and makes waves.

The Cardinals did take Jeremiyah Love early, but I think that offensive line isn’t good enough to let him shine — similar to Ashton Jeanty in 2025. Beck meanwhile has a chance to be integral in the passing offense as soon as the team pivots off Jacoby Brissett, which will happen.

Defensive Rookie of the Year

Arvell Reese, LB — New York Giants

The Giants defense is utterly stacked, but I have a lot of faith in John Harbaugh moving Arvell Reese all over the line and using him in creative ways. Also, with Brian Burns and Abdul Carter rushing the passer there’s going to be free lanes for Reese to make plays as a linebacker, and his insticts in a Harbz defense makes for a really compelling package.

I believe Reese can become an impact player quickly, stuff the stat sheet, and put together a resume that is impossible to ignore.

Caleb Downs, S — Dallas Cowboys

Not only was Downs my favorite player in this draft class, but might be the best safety I’ve ever evaluated. Instincts and athletic ability coalesce to create a truly brilliant player who can work up around the line and bring some pass rush for the ‘Boys, or drop back and deliver big hits in the secondary.

I’m a sucker for anyone who can play multiple levels in the NFL and I think Downs will have a lot of opportunities to shine working out of the Nickel as a rookie.

Dillon Thieneman, S — Chicago Bears

The Bears LOVE to generate turnovers, and it’s here that Thieneman can make an impact as a rookie. He’s extremely good at defending the pass in the air, and this will come into play with a Bears secondary that’s really good at locking down the corners and pressuring passes inside.

When the dust settles he could get 4+ interceptions this season, a solid amount of tackles, and establish himself as a great safety for this Bears system.

When our Seattle Seahawks traded for Leo Williams, there was a bit of talk about wasted picks, positional need, and other uncertainties, especially considering how discombobulated our team was at the time. Now, I’d say event the most causal of ‘Hawks fans would agree that Mister Williams is not only an integral part of this current iteration of the squad; but, a Seahawks legend. Leonard Williams is very happy to be a Seahawk. I’d say the coaching staff is hyped. And you? How are you feeling about Williams’ extension? Be honest, how did you feel at the time of the trade? I remember arguing with my nephew about it. His response was, “who is Leonard Williams?” Now, he knows. Let us know how you feel in the comments below. Thanks for being here. Happy Friday! Go, ‘Hawks!

#np Hold On, Be Strong by Outkast

Seattle Seahawks News

Leonard Williams Planted in Seattle for 3 More Years – Seaside Joe
Remember when people were calling the Seahawks “cheap” back in March?

Seahawks announce QB plan for preseason finale vs Chiefs – Seattle Sports
Third-string QB Jalen Milroe is slated to play the entirety of Seattle’s preseason finale. Recently signed CB Trevon Diggs also will play.

Seahawks Sign ‘Foundational Player’ Leonard Williams To Multi-Year Contract Extension – Seahawks.com
The Seahawks signed Pro-Bowl defensive lineman Leonard Williams to a contract extension on Thursday.

An open letter to the Khosla family, the Seahawks’ next owners – The Seattle Times
An open letter to the Khosla family, the Seahawks’ next owners: I hope you understand what you bought and why it matters to millions in…

Upon signing $90M deal Leonard Williams says Seahawks, Seattle ‘transformed me’ – The News Tribune
Leonard Williams walked in with, and was holding, the evidence of how the Seahawks and Seattle have transformed his life.

Somber moment on ‘Hard Knocks’ reveals connection between Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald and his players | Dave Boling – The Spokesman-Review
Twenty-eight seconds of silence.

No Ego, All Legacy: Jody Allen Bids Farewell to the Seahawks – Emerald City Spectrum
We see it all the time in sports, especially in the NFL. Owners are, usually by nature, egocentric billionaires who want the credit, glory, and control. Jerry Jones in Dallas is the posterchild for the meddling, egomaniac owner. It hasn’t won him a Super Bowl in three decades. Jimmy Haslam in Cleveland certainly has a track record of similar behavior.

My thoughts as Leonard Williams agrees a three-year contract extension with the Seahawks – Seahawks Draft Blog
During the 2014 season, there were a whole bunch of reports suggesting the Seahawks had grown tired of Marshawn Lynch. The expectation was they were ready to move on.

3 Seahawks Position Groups to Watch vs. Chiefs – si.com
The Seattle Seahawks have a lot on the line when they take on the Kansas City Chiefs in their final preseason game before roster cuts.

2026 Seattle Seahawks training camp: Latest intel, updates – ESPN.com
Just like last year, Seattle’s third preseason game will be Jalen Milroe‘s to start and finish.

Seahawks still have 5 major roster questions to answer before 53-man cutdown – The Athletic
Many key contributors from the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl-winning roster returned ahead of the 2026 season, and coach Mike Macdonald has rested most of them throughout the preseason.

Panic or Patience? Seahawks Questions Are Piling Up | Seahawks Syndicate – The Hawks Eye Podcast
The Seahawks Syndicate is back, and there’s plenty to debate as Seattle gets closer to the regular season.

NFC West News

Reasons why the Cardinals released Trey Benson – Revenge of the Birds
The Arizona Cardinals are going into the 2026 season with arguably the best running back room in the league. The offense will improve this year with several new pieces in place.

49ers waiver wire: What position are the 49ers in, and what players are subject to the process? – Niners Nation
Unsure how this whole waiver thing works? We go over what players are subject to waivers.

What to actually expect from Tutu Atwell in 2026 – Turf Show Times
Can the Rams get more out of Atwell this time around?

Feed Post of the Day

J.J. McCarthy’s ankle, Max Brosmer’s tape, and Friday’s roster auditions in Denver dominate The Real Forno Show as Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano preview Minnesota’s last exhibition.

Tyler opened with the only question that still moves the building: will McCarthy play Friday at 8 p.m. CT against the Broncos? He missed Wednesday so the deltoid ankle sprain could settle. Forness’s read is blunt. “If he does play, and especially coming off of an injury like this, I think it’s another stronger signal that he’s done in Minnesota.” He still expects McCarthy gone by Sunday’s 3 p.m. cut deadline — trade or waiver — and listed Jets, Dolphins, Chargers (Jim Harbaugh), Cowboys, and Cardinals as the shops worth watching, while parking rumor-mill “he wants out” items until Rapoport, Schefter, or Pelissero confirm them.

The blame pie is split on purpose. “I think you’re going to have to put blame on both the coaching staff, Kevin O’Connell included, and J.J. McCarthy.” Forness will not settle that argument until McCarthy’s next stop plays out: Darnold renaissance or flameout. Dave asked who Friday is supposed to impress. Tyler’s answer: not the fans first. “I think McCarthy really needs to prove to himself that he can be that guy again… he’s lost that confidence.” The Raiders tape from two years ago is the standard. The meniscus, the slump, and too many voices in his ear (O’Connell, the QB coach, Wes Phillips) are the wreckage. Grant Udinski’s exit is “worth considering at a high level,” Forness said — “I am also not willing to sit here confidently and say that it’s everything.”

Brosmer is the other face on the thumbnail. Last year’s UDFA earned QB3 over Brett Rypien, then got thrown into real games he “shouldn’t have had to play.” Friday he may see almost the whole night. Tyler wants last year’s preseason version: anticipation, middle-of-the-field answers, no telegraphed picks. “The only way he’s on the roster is if J.J. McCarthy’s gone.” If McCarthy stays, Brosmer is fighting for a practice-squad tape dump.

What they’re watching Friday:

• J.J. McCarthy’s future: Rumblings from insiders suggest McCarthy wants out and teams have called about a trade. Forness expects resolution by Sunday.
• Max Brosmer’s opportunity: The undrafted QB may play nearly the entire game. “I wanna see the Max Brosmer of last preseason and I wanna see it take a little bit of a step forward,” Forness said.
• RB3 battle — Demond Claiborne vs. Zavier Scott: Claiborne needs to prove his speed translates: “Speed only matters if you can use it in a football context.” Scott must show he can block and contribute on special teams.
• WR6 — Dillon Bell vs. Dontae Fleming: With Jeshaun Jones suspended three games (DUI arrest, per Ben Goessling’s reporting), the sixth receiver spot is open. “Bell had a lot of hype coming into training camp and he’s kinda fallen flat,” while Fleming has been “inconsistent, but solid.”
• Tight end — Gavin Bartholomew vs. Ben Yurosek: The long-term TE1 conversation is live. “Who do they think can maybe develop into your tight end one next year?”
• Offensive line depth concerns: Beyond the top six, Forness was blunt: “After that, Dave, it’s kind of stinky.”
• EDGE/DL: Edge 3 is the hole. Chaz Chambliss (now No. 40 so he can play fullback without reporting) has ST value. Elijah Williams is ahead of Isaiahh Loudermilk. Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins profiles as a 5-tech
• Linebacker shakeup: Ivan Pace Jr. could be expendable. “If you get enough from both [Jacob]Roberts and Bangally Kamara to where, hey, Ivan Pace expendable, you’re gonna save almost $2.7 million.”
• Jakobe Thomas (drafted safety) vs. Jacob Thomas (UDFA safety): “Jacob Thomas has outshined everybody in that secondary, but it’s also UDFA in the preseason. I wanna see the third-round pick play.”
• CBs: Charles Demmings and Da’Veawn Armstead for CB4/5; Zemaiah Vaughn is the sneak.
• Jake Golday’s role: Forness envisions a Dallas Turner-like development path — sub-packages only, not a full snap load yet.
• Punter battle: Johnny Hekker vs. Brett Thorson — watch hang time, direction, and ball placement.

Listen:

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“Everybody is expendable. Everybody,” Forness said. That is the whole finale. Live Two-Minute Warning lands around 10:45 p.m. CT Friday; Two Old Bloggers takes the 3 p.m. Sunday cutdown.

Fan with Us!!!

Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow found at the @BleavNetwork.

What do you think?

Watch the full Real Forno Show from Vikings 1st & SKOL and Bleav, then tell us: if McCarthy takes the first snap in Denver, is that development — or a goodbye tape?

Does J.J. McCarthy playing Friday mean the Vikings are already done with him? Do you think McCarthy has played his last snap in purple?

In Part Three of this series, we’ll take a look at the back half of the top 10 Anaheim Ducks prospects heading into the 2026-27 season. None of these prospects are likely destined to perform at the top of an NHL lineup in their careers, but they all play highly translatable games, and it would be somewhat surprising if they didn’t each play at least 100 career games in the NHL.

Due to the cap structure the Ducks’ front office is now forced to operate under, they’ll likely have to move forward with a top-heavy roster, and the development of these five players and the five players who will be highlighted in Part Four will be paramount if the Ducks are to keep their build on track. Luckily, they have a lot of arrows in the quiver, as their goal is now to fill out the middle of their depth chart with these young, translatable players. 

Read Parts One and Two here:

2026-27 Anaheim Ducks Top Prospects: 16-20

2026-27 Anaheim Ducks Top Prospects: 11-15

Author’s Note: To qualify for this list, players must be rookie-eligible in 2026-27. Unfortunately, that disqualifies Tristan Luneau from this particular exercise.

In reverse order, let’s dive into the Ducks’ top 10 prospects:

10. Eric Nilson, 19, Michigan State University (NCAA)

C, 6-foot, 170 pounds, 45th overall in 2025

Nilson made the jump to North America the season after he was drafted in the second round by the Ducks with a pick they acquired in the trade that sent Trevor Zegras to the Philadelphia Flyers. In his freshman season at MSU, Nilson was given a premium checking role and did well to become the goal line to goal line, matchup center that was required of him, but his production suffered as a result. He only tallied 11 points (3-8=11) in 35 NCAA games and added three points (1-2=3) at the 2026 World Junior Championships, where Sweden won a gold medal. 

Compared to former Ducks center William Karlsson at the time of his draft by Ducks director of amateur scouting and assistant GM Martin Madden, Nilson is effortlessly smooth, intelligent, and technically proficient over the entire ice surface and on both sides of the puck. He performed in the role he was tasked with during his freshman season, but the hope is that with more comfort at the NCAA level in his sophomore season, he’ll see the production increase to the level he’s capable of.

If he can explore the limits of his puck skills, express his creativity, and add to his frame, his ceiling tops out at that of a middle-six forward. His IQ and skating raise his floor considerably, and should lead to him playing at least a couple hundred NHL games throughout his career. 

NHL Arrival Prediction: 2028-29 

9. Lasse Boelius, 19, Assat (Liiga)

LHD, 6-foot-1, 190 pounds, 60th in ’25

Speaking of Madden, he certainly has a type when it comes to blueliners. In the mold of Cam Fowler, Hampus Lindholm, Shea Theodore, Marcus Pettersson, Jacob Larsson, Jackson LaCombe, and Pavel Mintyukov comes Boelius, drafted from Assat in Finland. Consistently playing above his age group, Boelius hasn’t produced much on the offensive side of the puck. He only totaled eight points (1-7=8) in 40 Liiga games a year ago. That’s not to say he’s incapable of offensive production, as he tallied seven points (2-5=7) in seven games at the 2026 World Junior Championship.

Boelius is mobile, long, and consistently makes crisp, smart outlets up ice. He hasn’t shown much willingness to activate and attack low in the offensive zone to this point, but is more than capable of patrolling a blueline and getting intelligent shots through traffic. Playing in professional men’s leagues has refined his defensive habits quickly and raised his projected NHL floor. He’ll return to Liiga for the upcoming 2026-27 season. 

NHL Arrival Prediction: 2029-30

8. Lucas Pettersson, 20, San Diego Gulls (AHL)

C, 6-foot, 190 pounds, 35th in ’24

Like Nilson, Pettersson was also compared to William Karlsson by Martin Madden at the time of his draft in 2024. However, at this point in their careers, Pettersson has the offensive edge on Nilson, rendering him a bit more akin to that of another former Ducks player who developed alongside Karlsson: Rickard Rakell. Pettersson played his first full SHL season with Brynas IF in 2025-26, scoring 20 points (10-10=20) in 41 games and adding six (4-2=6) in six WJC games.

Pettersson is another 200-foot center, prolific on both sides of the puck and in every zone. He is an intelligent, high-pace attacker who cleverly finds ways to get pucks on his stick and make plays from there with quick cutbacks and changes in direction. He made the jump to the AHL at the tail end of 2025-26, and though he failed to register a point in four games, he can now hit the ground running and knows what’s expected of him to succeed with the Gulls in 2026-27. 

NHL Arrival Prediction: 2027-28

7. Anton Wahlberg, 21, San Diego Gulls (AHL)

W, 6-foot-4, 205 pounds, 39th in ’23

The Ducks acquired Wahlberg from the Buffalo Sabres along with a second-round pick (Jayden Kurtz) in exchange for defenseman Olen Zellweger just before the start of the 2026 Draft. Wahlberg is among the Ducks’ most NHL-ready prospects following two full seasons in the AHL with the Rochester Americans. In 2025-26, he increased his production from 30 points (11-19=30) in 63 games to 37 points (9-28=37) in 68 games the year before and added three assists in three playoff games. 

Wahlberg can play up and down a lineup, providing a forechecking impact and a desire to get to the interior of the ice. He’s capable of protecting pucks low on the cycle or making connecting plays on the rush. He possesses the necessary skill to play in the top half of a lineup and the tenacity and powerful skating ability to play lower if tasked. He’ll likely start the 2026-27 season in the AHL with the Gulls, but it wouldn’t be surprising if he proves to be one of the season’s first call-ups among forwards for the Ducks. 

NHL Arrival Prediction: 2026-27

6. Tyson Hinds, 23, Anaheim Ducks (NHL)

LHD, 6-foot-3, 201 pounds, 76th in ’21

Hinds’ presence this high up the list may raise an eyebrow or two. His placement ultimately came down to the fact that he’s a surefire NHL defenseman right now. He’s in line for his first full season with the Ducks in 2026-27 after finishing the 2025-26 season on a recall and starting nine playoff games on the team’s run to the second round. With Jackson LaCombe and Pavel Mintyukov clearly ahead of him on the depth chart and Stian Solberg nipping at his heels, it’s unlikely Hinds will become more than a third-pairing defenseman. However, he’s capable and in line to receive a sizable role on the penalty kill for the Ducks moving forward and has the capacity to eat tough minutes against quality NHL competition.

Hinds uses every bit of his length and four-way mobility to angle and shut down rush attacks, get his stick in lanes and on pucks, and close perceived gaps quickly. He has enough skill to retrieve a puck, make a decent first pass, and get pucks to the net from the point, but his value comes on the defensive side of the puck, where he can provide a steadying presence for a more offensively inclined partner and become a difficult defenseman to play against on a shift-to-shift basis. He was one of the few Ducks defenders during their playoff run who could be relied upon to clear the net front of pucks and bodies on a consistent basis. 

NHL Arrival Projection: Arrived

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Skyler Bell and Joe Fagnano are turning heads for the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens, respectively. The two most recent NFL Combine invitees from UConn are having a great preseason so far.

A groin injury delayed Bell’s debut until the final week of the preseason. But his performance in that game has Bills fans thinking about another similarly sized receiver who was a huge playmaker for them a few years ago, Stefon Diggs.

On Thursday night against the Steelers, the fourth-round pick caught seven passes for 49 yards and took a jet sweep 28 yards to the house. It was a very familiar experience for UConn fans, but still a tremendous joy to see in an NFL uniform.

SKYLER’S FIRST TD!! KEEP MAKING PLAYS JUICE @Juicebe11pic.twitter.com/kEm8o3TkFs

— UConn Football (@UConnFootball) August 28, 2026

“Once the ball got in his hands, you felt the speed and he made the most of it,” Bills head coach Joe Brady said, according to the team site.

Bell is all-but a lock to make the final 53-man roster and should have a chance to break out on a team with a great quarterback in Josh Allen that’s looking for a top target.

Find someone who looks at you the way Josh Allen looks at Skyler Bell #BillsMafiapic.twitter.com/cYMkxE4jGw

— Buffalo Sports Talk (@BUFSportsTalk) August 28, 2026

Fagnano is his team’s leading preseason passer, with starter Lamar Jackson sitting the entire way and backup Tyler Huntley getting light action. He has looked sharp since his debut against the Eagles two weeks ago and has been over 75 percent completion with a touchdown in each of his two outings.

Fagnano will have his final shot to lock up a roster spot or practice squad QB3 role tonight at 6 p.m. against Washington.

“Joe came in, second week in a row, and managed the offense really well,” Ravens head coach Jesse Minter said, according to Sports Illustrated’s Jason La Confora. “He got us down there a few times, and he made some key plays throwing the ball. Guys made some nice catches for him. I just like the way we played in the second half.”

La Confora heaped praise on the undrafted rookie, saying the third QB job is likely his.

“[Fagnano] had stellar film from thrashing the Eagles a week ago and coming out of nowhere to do so. Vikings aggressive defensive mastermind Brian Flores treats the preseason closer to the real thing than most who call plays on defense, and Fagnano entered this road game at a time when Baltimore’s offense was lifeless and suspect with No. 2 quarterback [Tyler] Huntley at the helm.”

The New England Patriots concluded their preseason Thursday night in Cleveland with a 37-13 loss to the Browns.

Here is who caught our eye for better or worse upon live-viewing the Patriots’ preseason opener.

Winners

WR Kyle Williams: Another week, another long Kyle Williams touchdown. The second-year receiver played just nine snaps over the Patriots’ first two offensive series but quickly made his mark, hauling in a 45-yard touchdown down the left sideline from Tommy DeVito. It was similar to his touchdowns from the previous two weeks, as Williams once again showcased his elite release package and vertical speed. Williams also caught a 10-yard curl on DeVito’s first pass of the night.

KYLE WILLIAMS CAN'T STOP SCORINGpic.twitter.com/C8t9Htl7Sh

— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) August 28, 2026

P Matt Haack and K Andy Borregales: The kicking game was one of the few bright spots for the Patriots on Thursday. New punter Matt Haack, who was signed on Monday following Bryce Baringer’s injury, impressed in his debut with three i20’s — the best coming on a 63-yard punt that downed itself at the two-yard line. Haack also assumed holding duties for kicker Andy Borregales, who knocked through all of his kicks (two field goals, one extra point).

LB Namdi Obiazor: In a depleted linebacker room, the sixth-round rookie played 39 snaps along the second level Thursday night. Obiazor posted a game-high 12 tackles as he was often around the football and seemed to read things well upon first watch in the run game. The rookie has assumed a top special teams role throughout training camp which likely will earn him a 53-man roster spot.

Losers

Depth cornerbacks: The Patriots’ depth cornerbacks were picked on by Dillon Gabriel and the Browns’ pass catchers throughout the night. Charles Woods and Marcellas Dial Jr. each gave up a touchdown, while Kindle Vildor and Karon Prunty allowed downfield completions (21 and 19 yards, respectively), with the veteran also flagged for defensive pass interference. Woods, who has been the fourth cornerback throughout training camp, played the duration of the third quarter. Kobee Minor then missed a tackle in the run game to directly lead to a touchdown early in the fourth quarter.

The group entered Thursday night with question marks behind Christian Gonzalez, Carlton Davis and Marcus Jones, and the performance from the depth players did little to provide confidence ahead of cutdown day — leading the whole defense’s struggles Thursday night.

“Not good enough,” Mike Vrabel said. “We got a couple sudden change stops, forced them to kick field goals, which I think is always positive. But, just not good enough. Couldn’t match the speed of the quarterback in a zone read and some of those things. But we’ll get back to work and figure out who we’re going to get back to work with.”

Honorable mentions

• Behren Morton took a step back after last week’s positive showing. He took three sacks and threw a pair of interceptions.
• Lan Larison started Thursday’s game but dropped a third-down pass (slightly behind him). Hassan Haskins continued to run hard between the tackles behind him.
• Kyle Dixon posted a game-high eight catches (on eight targets) for 71 yards. He is a practice squad candidate.
• Caleb Lomu played nine snaps at right tackle over the Patriots first two drives. He appeared clean in his six pass blocking snaps.
• Fellow rookie tackle Dametrious Crownover continues to generate good push in the run game, as the whole line found success in the short-yardage run game.
• Gabe Jacas played 19 snaps in the finale and logged one pressure but also bit again on a zone-read play. He might have been expecting a force defender to play the quarterback, but Jacas has been on the wrong side of the play often this summer.
• The Patriots went the whole preseason without recording a kick return of 30 yards or more. Perhaps Kyle Williams assumes that role in the regular season, but the unit didn’t generate much confidence elsewhere.
• To end on a positive: No major injuries to end the preseason.

Eddy Pineiro caps off the 49ers’ preseason with a perfect performance
“Black benefitted from good blocking on a 14-yard run on the ensuing drive. His decisiveness shown on a 3rd & 1 run last week ended up being a mistake Jordan James made in his first action. Black gave way to James in the second quarter. On a 3rd & 1 run, James attempted to cut against the grain instead of staying on his path and picking up the first down. That’s a good learning moment for James.

James broke a run himself. He had a 17-yarder and also took a screen pass 20 yards. James isn’t flashy, but he’s the type of back to bounce off tackles and fall forward for a few extra yards. That’s what you want in a backup. He’ll learn to stick his nose in there and maximize the yardage in short-yardage situations…

…The most intriguing rookie may have been undrafted free agent tight end Khalil Dinkins. He’s listed at 6’4”, 226 pounds. That might be about 15 pounds too light. He played blocked with a level of intensity in limited action that is worth keeping around on the practice squad.”

Why is 49ers’ Carver Willis getting another start at LG? The rookie needs the reps (paywall)
“Outsiders tend to fixate on pass protection when evaluating offensive linemen. The 49ers, however, scrutinize run blocking, especially following a season in which the team’s per-carry average, a robust 4.52 yards in the first eight seasons under Shanahan, dropped to 3.78 yards. It was the first time in his tenure the average fell below 4 yards.

Willis emphasized that the 49ers’ run-blocking scheme is an extremely precise choreography — a Chorus Line but with 315-pound defensive tackles trying to blow up the performance.

His biggest issue right now is that he’s slightly out of step. Or in his words: “My angles in the run game aren’t very complementary of the guys next to me.”

A false step by the left guard on a running play isn’t something a casual observer usually picks up on, but it is obvious — like a sour note during a piano recital — to an expert like offensive line coach Chris Foerster.

“There are so many plays where you can see that the four guys next to me — their hips are on a different angle than mine,” Willis said. “For me right now, it’s studying that aiming point and running on our angles, setting our backside shoulder, all that kind of stuff.”

One benefit to playing left guard for the 49ers, he said, is that he has Trent Williams, who’s played 11,334 career snaps, to his left and Jake Brendel (4,376 career snaps) to the right. And that means he often gets real-time coaching in the huddle.

“Those guys have been so great,” Willis said. “They’ll tell you when you did well. Be like, ‘Hey, great job on that. That’s exactly what we need.’ Or it’s, ‘Hey, come on. You have to see that quicker.’ Or, ‘You’ve got to get hands on the guy.’ I’ve got a combined 23 years of experience next to me. That’s huge. Our vets have been so helpful.”

Will 49ers trust Kaelon Black, Jordan James enough to lighten Christian McCaffrey’s load? (Paywall)
“Thursday night was James’ only chance to put something on tape ahead of the season opener in Australia. And he looked good for the most part. James finished with 35 yards on eight carries, including a 17-yarder up the gut with good contact balance, along with a 20-yard catch, which was a screen pass that turned into much more upon his cutback and a nice perimeter block by rookie left guard hopeful Carver Willis. 

His momentary lapses: Running sideways instead of vertical on a third-and-1 carry that lost a yard (one Black would probably convert) and getting flagged for an illegal block that negated a touchdown pass.”

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — Ian Wheeler scored on a 2-yard run with 1:06 left, Steve Buechele completed an off-balance pass to Dante Pettis for a 2-point conversion and the Buffalo Bills beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 28-27 in the preseason finale for each team Thursday night.

The Steelers’ last chance to pull ahead ended with Drew Allar’s pass sailing behind tight end Lake McRee on fourth-and-7 with 44 seconds remaining. It was a disappointing finish for Allar in an outing the rookie was attempting to separate himself from Will Howard in the competition for the Steelers’ third-string job.

In squandering a 10-point lead over the final seven minutes, the Steelers closed the preseason 1-2. Buffalo was 3-0.

With Kyle Allen appearing to have locked up the primary backup job behind Josh Allen, Buechele handled the quarterback duties in finishing 26 for 38 for 196 yards. The go-ahead score was set up by a 42-yard pass interference penalty against Tamon Lymum on Pettis that gave the Bills the ball at the 7.

After Wheeler scored on third down, the Bills elected for the 2-point conversion. Buechele was back-pedaling in the face of pressure before getting off a pass to Pettis, who was open along the left side of the goal line.

Frank Gore Jr. scored on a 1-yard run for Buffalo, and receiver Skyler Bell also found the end zone on a 28-yard scamper off a reverse. Bell, a rookie fourth-round draft pick, also had seven catches for 49 yards.

BROWNS 37, PATRIOTS 13

CLEVELAND (AP) — Dillon Gabriel threw three touchdown passes — two to Luke Floriea — and Taylen Green directed a 98-yard touchdown drive to help Cleveland beat New England in the final preseason game for both teams.

Gabriel and Green got extended looks as they vie for the Browns’ third quarterback spot. Gabriel got the start and played the first half while Green saw the second-half snaps.

Gabriel, in his second year after being a third-round pick in the 2025 draft, completed 12 of 15 passes for 186 yards and a 157.9 passer rating as he led the Browns (1-2) to points on the first five drives.

Green showed off his dual-threat ability during his four possessions. He was 5 of 7 passing for 27 yards along with eight rushing attempts for 66 yards.

Tommy DeVito started for New England (1-1-1) and was in for two drives and was 2 of 4 for 55 yards. He led the Patriots to their only touchdown on their opening possession, connecting with Kyle Williams for a 45-yard score in the first quarter to tie it at 7.

49ERS 18, RAIDERS 12

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Las Vegas rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza saw what it was like to face a strong NFL pass rush, even against a San Francisco defense comprised of reserves, and he was sacked twice and threw an interception in the 49ers’ preseason victory over the Raiders.

Eddy Piñeiro made all six field goal attempts, including 51- and 54-yarders in the final 1:51 for the 49ers (2-1). Las Vegas’ Matt Gay, who played briefly for San Francisco last season, made 4 of 5 field goals, his miss coming from 54 yards in the third quarter.

Mendoza completed 7 of 14 passes for 57 yards, making him 25 of 40 for 240 yards with a touchdown, two interceptions and four sacks for the three preseason games. He led five drives against the 49ers, one ending in a field goal and another in the missed attempt.

It wasn’t quite the exclamation point the top overall draft pick wanted to put on the preseason, and now he will have to search for practice repetitions with Kirk Cousins expected to be the starter when the season begins. Cousins took the vast majority of snaps in training camp, and his workload figures to go only increase as the Raiders (1-2) go full time into game planning.

RAMS 20, CHARGERS 18

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Ty Simpson threw a go-ahead touchdown in the second quarter, Harrison Mevis kicked two 27-yard field goals and the Los Angeles Rams beat the Los Angeles Chargers in the teams’ preseason finale.

The Rams didn’t play any starters in keeping with coach Sean McVay’s approach to games that don’t count in the standings. Even backup quarterback Stetson Bennett was held out.

“Everyone stay healthy, please,” referee Shawn Hochuli urged the captains after the coin flip.

The Rams won all three of their preseason games and head to Australia in two weeks to open the season. They’re the clear early favorites to win the Super Bowl, which will be played at SoFi Stadium on Feb. 14.

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert played just two series. His fumble led to Mevis’ first 27-yard field goal early in the first quarter.

Herbert bounced right back, throwing a 65-yard TD pass to Quentin Johnston — the second-longest catch of the receiver’s career — on the second play of a drive that lasted 14 seconds and gave the Chargers a 7-3 lead.

New defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary chest-bumped safety Tony Jefferson after the Chargers forced the Rams to turn the ball over on downs inside the 1-yard line on a drive that lasted 9:41.

Trey Lance took over for Herbert in the second quarter, with his first series ending on a shanked 20-yard punt by JK Scott. The Rams quickly took the lead for good on third-stringer Simpson’s 11-yard TD pass to fourth-string receiver Brennan Presley for a 10-7 lead.

Simpson finished 18 of 23 for 119 yards.

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ preseason is officially behind them, and we are full steam ahead to the 2026 regular season. Before the Steelers take on the Atlanta Falcons at Acrisure Stadium in week one, the team must cut its roster from 90 men to 53 over the weekend. The deadline for teams to cut their rosters down to 53 men is Sunday, August 30th at 6 p.m.

FanDuel Sportsbook is not a believer in the Steelers this season, giving them +154 odds to make the playoffs, the third-best odds to win the AFC North behind the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals.

With the preseason now over, the Steelers will begin their roster cuts to get down to their initial 53-man roster on Sunday. This thread will be updated throughout the weekend to provide the most up-to-date report of who the Steelers decide to cut loose, so be sure to follow along between now and Sunday evening to know exactly when cuts happen as the Steelers’ roster takes shape.

Confirmed cuts:

Third preseason games don’t matter, but it’s still fun to watch the Cleveland Browns dominate a game and pile on some stats for guys trying to get plays on tape. It was all Cleveland against the Patriots in a 37-13 victory. Let’s get to the full game recap.

1st Quarter – Browns vs. Patriots

The Browns received the opening kickoff, as QB Dillon Gabriel came on to the field. He orchestrated an opening-drive touchdown, finishing it with a playaction pass to WR Luke Floriea, who stayed in bounds along the boundary for the 6-yard touchdown to put Cleveland up 7-0.

Dillon Gabriel ➡️ Luke Floriea for a Browns TD!

NEvsCLE on Prime Video
Stream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/fZE1gP0gTz

— NFL (@NFL) August 28, 2026

The Patriots gave the start to QB Tommy DeVito, and he found WR Kyle Williams open down the left sideline for a 45-yard touchdown, as CB D’Angelo Ross appeared to lose track of the ball. That tied the game up at 7-7.

.@tommydevito007 to @k_mmoneyyyy DIME 🎯

📺: Prime Video pic.twitter.com/wtuNHzpYIa

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) August 28, 2026

The action continued on the next drive. Gabriel hit WR Gage Larvadain over the middle for 21 yards, and later WR Ben Patterson for 19 yards. On 2nd-and-6 from the 14 yard line, Gabriel found Floriea again in stride for 14 yards and another touchdown to make it a 14-7 game.

DG + Luke = TD 🙌#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/mYVj4n5MnH

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

The Patriots went three-and-out on their next drive, and then Gabriel started the next drive by rolling to his left and finding Patterson, who caught the defensive back flat-footed for a catch-and-run of 52 yards. That helped set up a 35-yard field goal by K Andre Szmyt to put the Browns up 17-7.

QB Behren Morton came on for the Patriots. On his first pass, he tried to hit a tight end who was busy blocking, so it hit the back of his leg and bounced in the air. LB EastonMascarenas-Arnold tipped it in the air and came down with the interception to wrap up the opening quarter.

we'll take that thank youuu#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/T8dDqriLHP

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

2nd Quarter – Browns vs. Patriots

Gabriel went three-and-out for the first time on the day, but the Browns were still in field goal range. Szmyt hit from 47 yards out to put the Browns up 20-7.

After Morton’s first series lasted one play, his second one lasted 14 plays and 7:13 of clock. DE Khordae Sydnor registered his third sack of the preseason in the red zone, though, which helped force New England into a 26-yard field goal to cut the Browns’ lead to 20-10.

.@KhordaeS got him good 😮‍💨#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/wJumJHlc3k

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

On Gabriel’s next drive, he moved the ball again, and nearly gave Floriea the hat trick for what was initially ruled a 16-yard touchdown pass. However, replay review showed that the throw was low and just barely touched the ground for an incomplete pass. A few plays later, Gabriel still found RB Ahmani Marshall for a 7-yard touchdown for a 27-10 lead.

TD no. 3 on the day for Dillon!#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/IUuwDLPDYL

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

S Donovan McMillian came up with an interception after the two-minute warning, but the official threw a flag for pass interference on him. Replays showed that it was a bad call and the interception should have counted. The defense still held tight to close out the half, holding New England to a 33-yard field goal to make it a 27-13 game.

3rd Quarter – Browns vs. Patriots

The Patriots began the half, but could only get to midfield before having to punt. That punt was run backward by Larvadain, back to the 2 yard line, for QB Taylen Green’s first drive. Green’s only chance to do anything was on 3rd-and-long, and his scramble fell just short of a first down.

The Browns punted, and then New England punted right back to Cleveland, with the drive starting at the 2 yard line again. Green really got to show off his legs on the drive, including running around in his own end zone and then taking off for 30 yards. Between that, and a mix of short passes, Cleveland finished the third quarter near a goal-to-go situation.

a runner and a track star 🏃💨#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/XjzMkQH92H

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

4th Quarter – Browns vs. Patriots

A few plays into the quarter, RB Davon Booth got the handoff and executed a spin move to dodge a defender and walk into the end zone for the 8 yard touchdown and a 34-13 lead.

put the spin cycle on him 🔄#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/wdVUCVET1g

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

On Green’s next drive, he got into New England territory again, but had his first incompletion on a third down pass that sailed over the receiver, leading to a punt.

The Patriots went for it on 4th-and-2 in their own territory, and Morton was picked off by LB Justin Jefferson, returned to the 12 yard line.

a big pick and a big return for JJ!#NEvsCLE on @NFLonPrimepic.twitter.com/K0vvxx3lE2

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) August 28, 2026

It only led to a field goal for Cleveland, making it 37-13. The Patriots ran out the clock from there.

Quick Hitters

• QB Dillon Gabriel: 12-of 15 for 186 yards, 3 TD.
• QB Taylen Green: 5-of-7 for 27 yards. 8 carries, 66 yards.
• WR Luke Floriea: 3 catches, 29 yards, 2 TD.

Next up, the Browns will trim their roster to 53 players and get ready for the regular season.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially wrapped up exhibition play with a 28-27 loss to the Buffalo Bills, and will now begin cutting their roster from 90 to 53.

One of the biggest names on the roster bubble is second-year quarterback Will Howard. The Ohio State product finished the preseason with two touchdowns to three interceptions in his first stretch of NFL action. However, he was also sacked three times against the Buffalo Bills, and appeared to be banged up at the end of the first half, which was confirmed after the game.

Per Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, Howard went to the medical staff and was being evaluated for an injury. The specifics of the injury are unknown.

It remains to be known whether or not the Steelers will keep four quarterbacks, something that is incredibly rare to see. However, if they deem Howard’s injury to be severe, he could end up on IR to start the season.

Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

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The Pittsburgh Steelers fell to the Buffalo Bills 28-27 in their 2026 preseason finale. After jumping out to a 14-3 lead early in the first quarter, Bills quarterback Shane Buechele led a game-winning touchdown drive to give Buffalo the win. More importantly, we got to see pivotal performances from some players who had to make their final impressions before teams cut down to a 53-man roster this Sunday.

Let’s take a look at who improved their stock, and who hurt theirs during the Steelers preseason finale.

Stock up:

WR Germie Bernard

After being held without a catch on his lone target last week, Bernard made the most of his one catch by scoring a first-quarter touchdown in the Steelers preseason finale. Bernard took a screen pass and made a move on former first-round pick Maxwell Hairston on his way to the end zone. Bernard has shown great ability after the catch throughout the preseason and will likely have a role with the starters at some point during his rookie season.

KR Kaden Wetjen

I’ll be completely honest here, when I was drafting this piece up during the second half I had penciled in Kaden Wetjen under the “stock down category.” Not five minutes after I did so, Wetjen made the play of the preseason with a 45-yard punt return touchdown. The rookie fourth-round pick went backwards on two of his punt returns in the first half and had struggled throughout the preseason until that moment. That play all but secures Wetjen a roster spot as the Steelers’ primary return man.

OT Max Iheanachor

The Steelers’ 2026 first-round pick made his long-awaited NFL debut after missing a few weeks with a shoulder/neck injury. Iheanachor was almost immediately blown by and gave up a sack on his first series on the field. Later, the rookie was flagged on a very questionable call for a hold.

Max Iheanachor holding call which I think is a garbage call. Destroy all refs who think snatch and trap is a holding call https://t.co/znYvB0AJUKpic.twitter.com/lykn3RW4b1

— LandonTengwall (@LandonTengwall) August 28, 2026

In the second half, Iheanachor made a phenomenal downfield block to clear the way for rookie running back Eli Heidenreich to stroll into the end zone. For limited reps in a debut, Iheanachor showed serious promise, and given the struggles by the Steelers’ starting line this preseason, he could become a starter sooner rather than later.

Stock down:

QB Will Howard

Will Howard threw his third interception of the preseason in the first half on what was clearly a miscommunication between Howard and his tight end Lake McRee. Whether Howard or McRee is more at fault is unclear, but Howard’s sloppy handling of the ball will almost certainly cost him the backup job. Pocket presence also seems to be a major area of concern for Howard. Too many times in this game, Howard either did not step up in the pocket and get sacked, or tried to extend the play for too long and got sacked. The second-year quarterback did throw two touchdowns early in the contest after being put in favorable positions due to a muffed punt and a shanked punt by Buffalo. Howard’s future with the Steelers will be dependent on whether or not the team decides to keep four quarterbacks on the 53-man roster.

RB Kaleb Johnson

After pacing the team in carries last week touched the ball just five times for 11 yards in this contest. After solid performances by Lew Nichols and Eli Heidenreich, any glimmer of hope for Johnson to make the roster may have dissipated. The 2025 third-round pick will be in danger of being cut when rosters are finalized by Sunday at 6 p.m.

OT Dylan Cook

Read into this how you will, but Dylan Cook started this game at left tackle despite being slated to start at right tackle this season. It was Broderick Jones starting at right tackle. Cook did end up playing some at right tackle, and even played into the second half. It seems like the Steelers are at least considering the idea of not starting Cook to begin the season. Given Cook’s struggles throughout preseason and Iheanachor’s solid debut, it seems to only be a matter of time before Cook loses his starting spot.

Let us know what you think in the comments. Be sure to bookmark Behind the Steel Curtain for all the latest news, breakdowns, and more!

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• NFL analyst suggests 4 potential trade partners and packages for Joey Porter Jr
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