Preseason Week 2 Highlights: Browns likely to start Shedeur Sanders, Jets show defensive improvement
In the second week of NFL preseason games, the Cleveland Browns appear set to name Shedeur Sanders as their starter, the New York Jets recorded two takeaways, and several other teams saw notable performances.
Cleveland head coach Todd Monken is expected to decide the regular-season starter at quarterback after Deshaun Watson’s poor showing in the second preseason game, with Shedeur Sanders positioned to take the role. Sanders completed 9 of 11 passes for 74 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Week 2, improving on his earlier performance.
San Francisco rookie wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling posted a strong showing, catching seven passes for 63 yards in the first game and tying for the most receptions in the second, drawing attention from oddsmakers as a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate.
In Miami, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa saw limited preseason action, while backup players Jack Strand and Cooper Rush posted solid numbers, and Michael Penix Jr. is now cleared for full-team drills, creating a competitive situation for the starting job.
The New York Jets’ defense recorded two interceptions in the preseason matchup against Pittsburgh, with safety Andre Cisco and cornerback Samuel Womack III each making a pick, and added several sacks, suggesting progress after a season without interceptions.
Minnesota’s J.J. McCarthy, who lost the starting competition to Kyler Murray, struggled in limited snaps against Baltimore, prompting coach Kevin O’Connell to note health concerns and the possibility of a different backup option.
Green Bay’s rookie kicker Trey Smack impressed in his first two preseason games, converting all four attempts in Week 2, including two from beyond 50 yards, and previously making a 58-yard field goal, indicating a potential solution to the Packers’ recent kicking inconsistencies.