As the NFL regular season approaches, Week 3 of the preseason gave us a final glimpse into the potential of teams and players. All 32 teams were in action, making it a crucial weekend for many players. With roster cuts looming, Week 3 served as a last chance for players to secure their spots. For top 2023 draft picks Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson, it was a weekend full of ups and downs.
Bryce Young Shows Promise in Brief Appearance
Bryce Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, faced a tough rookie season. The Carolina Panthers, who traded several draft picks and wide receiver DJ Moore to move up to the No. 1 spot, placed enormous pressure on Young to lead the team. Unfortunately, the Panthers ended the season with a disappointing 2-15 record, and Young struggled throughout.
However, Week 3 of the preseason offered a glimmer of hope. Young made his preseason debut in a 31-26 win over the Buffalo Bills. Though the Bills did not play their starters, Young’s performance was encouraging. He completed 6-of-8 passes for 70 yards and a touchdown, including a crucial 17-yard pass on fourth down. New Panthers head coach Dave Canales praised Young’s ability to extend plays and manage the game. Carolina hopes this performance is a sign of better things to come in the regular season.
Anthony Richardson’s Rollercoaster Performance
Indianapolis Colts fans experienced the full range of Anthony Richardson’s abilities in Week 3. The fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft led the Colts to a 27-14 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Richardson started strong, leading an 80-yard touchdown drive on the Colts’ opening possession. He completed 7-of-8 passes, showing promise as a playmaker.
However, his next drive was less successful. Richardson threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown, and the Colts struggled to score on their remaining drives. Consistency will be key for Richardson as he continues to develop. With limited experience as a starter, the young QB has a lot to prove in the upcoming season.
Quarterback Uncertainty in New England and Dallas
While most teams have named their starting quarterbacks for Week 1, the New England Patriots remain undecided. After parting ways with Mac Jones, the Patriots signed veteran Jacoby Brissett and drafted rookie Drake Maye. Head coach Jerod Mayo has yet to announce the starter, but Brissett’s recent injury in a loss to the Washington Commanders may influence his decision. Rookie Drake Maye could be thrust into the starting role if Brissett is not fully recovered.
In Dallas, Dak Prescott is the clear starter, but his future with the team is uncertain. Prescott has only one year left on his contract, and the Cowboys might consider other options in 2025. Trey Lance, who was traded to Dallas from San Francisco, played the entire game in a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite his high yardage, Lance threw five interceptions, raising doubts about his potential as a long-term replacement for Prescott.
Key Takeaways from Week 3
Week 3 of the preseason provided valuable insights into the state of NFL teams as they finalize their rosters. While some quarterbacks, like Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson, showed flashes of brilliance, they also highlighted the challenges they face. With the regular season just around the corner, these young QBs will need to build on their preseason performances to meet the high expectations set for them.
Week 3 Preseason Results:
- Indianapolis Colts 27-14 Cincinnati Bengals
- Chicago Bears 34-21 Kansas City Chiefs
- Jacksonville Jaguars 31-0 Atlanta Falcons
- Miami Dolphins 14-24 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- San Francisco 49ers 24-24 Las Vegas Raiders
- Carolina Panthers 31-26 Buffalo Bills
- Pittsburgh Steelers 17-24 Detroit Lions
- Baltimore Ravens 7-30 Green Bay Packers
- Minnesota Vikings 26-3 Philadelphia Eagles
- Los Angeles Rams 15-17 Houston Texans
- Los Angeles Chargers 26-19 Dallas Cowboys
- New York Giants 6-10 New York Jets
- Cleveland Browns 33-37 Seattle Seahawks
- Tennessee Titans 30-27 New Orleans Saints
- Arizona Cardinals 12-38 Denver Broncos
- New England Patriots 10-20 Washington Commanders
As teams finalize their 53-man rosters, the decisions made now will shape the upcoming NFL season. The young quarterbacks have shown their potential, but they still have a lot to prove as they head into Week 1.(JiliAsia)
