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Source: Fox Sports
Summary
During the NFL preseason, Ty Simpson of the Los Angeles Rams had a strong performance, completing 18 of 23 passes for 119 yards and a touchdown. Fernando Mendoza of the Las Vegas Raiders struggled, throwing an interception. Dillon Gabriel of the Cleveland Browns threw three touchdowns. The Seattle Seahawks signed Leonard Williams to a three-year, $90 million extension. The Miami Dolphins traded Tutu Atwell to the Rams for Jarquez Hunter.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Simpson looked sharp, Mendoza looked lost.
Gabriel threw touchdowns, but the Browns still have questions.
Williams got paid, but the market moved.
Teams are reshuffling, but the same problems linger.
Preseason is just a warm-up for the real drama.
Author: Evan Null
Preseason Performances and Team Moves
The NFL preseason is a time for quarterbacks to make their cases, and this week was no different. Ty Simpson of the Los Angeles Rams had a solid showing, leading the team to three scoring drives. His performance has put him in the conversation for the backup quarterback role behind Matthew Stafford. Meanwhile, Fernando Mendoza of the Las Vegas Raiders struggled again, throwing an interception and failing to impress. His performance might not matter much, as the Raiders have been considering a redshirt year for him.
QB Contests and Roster Decisions
The Cleveland Browns have already named Deshaun Watson as their Week 1 starter, but Dillon Gabriel had a chance to prove himself as the third-string quarterback. Gabriel threw three touchdowns in a strong performance, showing he could be a viable option. However, the Browns might still choose to carry only two quarterbacks, leaving Gabriel’s future in question. The same goes for Taylen Green, the Arkansas rookie, whose status remains uncertain.
Contract Extensions and Team Building
The Seattle Seahawks made a major move by extending defensive lineman Leonard Williams to a three-year, $90 million deal. The contract ties him with Vita Vea for the fifth-highest average salary among interior defensive linemen. The extension comes after the Seahawks made big deals for Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Devon Witherspoon. The move shows the team’s commitment to building a strong defense.
Trade Activity and Roster Adjustments
The Miami Dolphins and Los Angeles Rams made a trade, with the Dolphins sending wide receiver Tutu Atwell back to the Rams in exchange for running back Jarquez Hunter. Atwell, who was originally drafted by the Rams, is returning to a team that already has Davante Adams and Puka Nacua in the receiving corps. Hunter, a fourth-round pick, will provide depth for the Dolphins.
Contract Standoffs and Player Issues
The New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers are both dealing with contract issues involving their young cornerbacks. Christian Gonzalez and Joey Porter are both in contract standoffs, with neither side close to an agreement. Gonzalez has two years left on his rookie deal, while Porter is on the PUP list with a back injury. These issues could affect their teams’ depth and performance in the regular season.
