IDP instant reactions and analysis to get you ready for your drafts! Let's talk about Preseason Week 2!
Hey friends! Welcome back to another IDP Rundown! This time we are talking instant reactions and analysis for Preseason Week 2. We are seeing a lot of things that we want to see play out, like rookies rising to the occasion with their limited opportunities while many veterans are still sitting out to avoid injury. I am just giddy that I have a never-ending stream of football to watch on my TV every weekend!
You didn't come here for my witty anecdotes though, you came here for analysis! Let's dive right in!
Chicago Bears @ Seattle Seahawks
The Bears remain undefeated, taking down the Seahawks by a score of 27 to 11.
Seahawks Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Boye Mafe certainly is living up to his hype! On 38% of defensive snaps plays, Mafe exploded for four solo tackles. Unfortunately, he left the game with an injury, so that's something to monitor. Depending on that news, Mafe's stock is seemingly on the rise. He'll be worth a flier at the end of deeper drafts.
- Cody Barton continues to perform as we want him to. On 32% of defensive snaps played, he racked up 3 combined tackles. He continues to show he can fill Bobby Wagner‘s shoes, which has to excite you from a fantasy perspective. I'm seeing him last fairly late in drafts, so get him at that price while you still can.
Surprise Performance:
- Marquise Blair led the team with eight combined tackles. He is not someone you need to worry about in your drafts at this time.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Nothing really else to note here as the Seahawks rested most of their presumed starters. Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Seahawks head to Dallas to take on the Cowboys in their final preseason game.
Bears Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- On only six snaps, Nicholas Morrow grabbed two tackles. He's the linebacker you want on the Bears right now with Roquan Smith's status up in the air. Don't overthink it.
Surprise Performance:
- Another week, another stellar performance by Jack Sanborn. Sanborn is making a case to make the team by racking up 5 combined tackles on 78% of defensive snaps. This is worth noting. The longer Roquan Smith isn't playing, the more opportunities young linebackers like Sanborn have a chance to be a little relevant. I wouldn't go drafting him yet, but Sanborn's stock is up.
- Pete Keyes had one great game, nabbing seven combined tackles and two passes defended. Unfortunately for him, he is a long shot to get much playing time in the regular season, even if he makes the team. You can leave him undrafted.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The Bears opted to rest most of their presumed starters again, and the starters who did play were on a very limited snap count. This is why you aren't seeing names like Jaquan Brisker or Robert Quinn on the stat sheet. Not to worry! We should get a good look at them in the final preseason game next week.
Looking to Next Week:
The Bears will be traveling to Cleveland to take on the Browns in their final preseason game.
Carolina Panthers @ New England Patriots
The Patriots get their first win of the preseason, beating the Panthers by a score of 20 to 10.
Carolina Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Brandon Smith showed us why the Panthers drafted him in the fourth round this year, nabbing five combined tackles and tacking on a sack. In redraft leagues, he probably won't be relevant to start the year, but I can easily see a scenario where the Panthers go and play their young players later in the year to see what they have. Smith is a name to be aware of.
Surprise Performance:
- Kalon Barnes had a great game, going off for five combined tackles on only 41% of defensive snaps. He is someone who is buried on the depth chart, so he isn't presently relevant for fantasy purposes.
- Sean Chandler had a great game, racking up eight combined tackles on 59% of defensive snaps played. This is a great game to illustrate what Chandler can do when given snaps. The issue is he is behind some really good players on the depth chart. Unless there is an injury or two, he isn't someone you need to worry about rostering.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Similar to most other games this week, the Panthers opted to not play their presumed starters. No need to worry about not seeing your favorite IDP names on the stat sheet!
Looking to Next Week:
The Panthers will host the Buffalo Bills next week.
New England Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Ja'Whaun Bentley had as good of a performance as you could ask for, grabbing six tackles on only 16 defensive snaps. He is set to play a big role on the Patriots' defense this year, and if he can keep up this production he can be a nice LB3/LB4 for you. There were some questions as to who would step up for the Patriots, so it seems like we might have our answer.
- Kyle Dugger picked up where he left off last year, grabbing two combined tackles on 34% of defensive snaps played. He is a tackling machine who last year had a bit of a breakout campaign. If the Patriots continue to play him in a "run-support" role, he is going to be a player you will want on your roster as a high-end Safety 2.
Surprise Performance:
- Raekwon McMillan had a great day in the office, grabbing six combined tackles. With a little uncertainty as to who would replace Dont'a Hightower's production on this defense, McMillan has been a name thrown out there. With performances like this, it would not be surprising to see him put up some stats in the regular season. He's not worth a roster spot yet, but you have to like what you see.
- Josh Uche continued his preseason sack streak, grabbing a sack in this game. He is a player who has never quite lived up to his expectations, and he seems resigned to a situational pass-rusher role on this defense. However, if he can continue to flash upside, he should start to see the field more. He's someone I like at the end of best ball drafts, but you can find better in redraft formats.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Adrian Phillips played 38% of defensive snaps, so I'm a little surprised he didn't show up on the stat sheet. It's hard to make any major conclusions in a preseason game, but this concerns me a little bit about having too high of expectations for Phillips this year.
Looking to Next Week:
The Patriots head to Las Vegas to take on the Raiders in their final preseason game.
New Orleans Saints @ Green Bay Packers
The Packers pulled out the victory, beating the Saints 20 to 10.
New Orleans Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Shy Tuttle had an excellent game, grabbing two tackles on only 11 defensive snaps. At such a shallow position, it's nice when you can rely on some consistent production. Tuttle is a great DT2/DT3 candidate.
Surprise Performance:
- Hello Jonathan Bostic! Bostic exploded for six combined tackles, a pass defended, and a fumble recovery. He does not project at this time to be a relevant player on this defense from a fantasy perspective.
- Taco Charlton had a nice game, racking up four combined tackles and a sack. Despite his dynamite name, I don't expect him to get much playing time in the regular season (if he even makes the team). You can safely avoid him in drafts!
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Nothing really to report here this week, as the Saints decided to rest many of their presumed starters. Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Saints will host the Los Angeles Chargers next week.
Green Bay Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Is there anyone with more hype right now than Quay Walker? On 12 defensive snaps, he grabbed two combined tackles. The Packers are playing him as much as they are playing other pivotal pieces on their defense. When he's out there he produces. Buy, buy, buy!
- Krys Barnes had a representative day, grabbing two tackles on 30% of defensive snaps played. We know what Barnes is at this point, which is a nice fill-in player when bye weeks hit. There's something to be said for a player who won't put up zero points when you need some help!
Surprise Performance:
- Ray Wilborn led the Packers with seven combined tackles and a sack. He is buried on the depth chart, so he is not someone you have to worry about rostering at this time.
- Isaiah McDuffie racked up a bunch of tackles this game, grabbing six in total. He is an injury away from being relevant, but he just isn't there yet.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Devonte Wyatt played a solid 41% of defensive snaps and put up a decent stat line for his position. he's a name I continue to monitor in deeper leagues. Don't go crazy yet, but the fact that Wyatt doesn't look overmatched is noteworthy.
Looking to Next Week:
The Packers head to Kansas City to play the Chiefs next week.
Houston Texans @ Los Angeles Rams
The Texans took down the Rams by a score of 24 to 20.
Houston Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Kamu Grugier-Hill played the starter we expect him to be, racking up four combined tackles and a tackle for a loss on 26% of defensive snaps played. While the Texans might not be a good team this year, there is a lot of value in their defense. Grugier-Hill will have a bunch of opportunities to produce for you.
- Christian Kirksey is another linebacker who we expect to get a bunch of snaps in the regular season. He delivered three combined tackles and a sack on 26% of defensive snaps played. Just like Grugier-Hill, he is someone you can target later on in drafts as a sleeper and reap the benefits.
- Jonathan Greenard made the most of his 20% of defensive snaps, grabbing a sack. He had a bit of a breakout year last year, so it's nice to see him continue that. He can deliver some great value for you at the end of your draft.
Surprise Performance:
- Blake Cashman paced the team with six combined tackles. While this was a great game for him, I don't expect it to move the needle on his relevance in the regular season. Feel free to avoid him.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Derek Stingley Jr. played 22% of defensive snaps, so it's not surprising he only grabbed one sack. Rookie cornerbacks are so hard to predict for fantasy purposes. I take it as a positive he was only out there for a little playing time, indicating the Texans want to ensure he is healthy for the regular season.
Looking to Next Week:
The Texans will host the San Francisco 49ers next week.
Los Angeles Rams Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Just like last week, the Rams did not play any of their veteran-laden starting defense, meaning no one really had any expectations. You have to assume next week we will finally see the players we love.
Surprise Performance:
- Jake Hummel paced the team with six combined tackles. He also led the team with 73% of defensive snaps played. The Rams' defense is stacked at linebacker, so Hummel is not someone I expect to be relevant come the regular season.
- Jake Gervase made the most of his 45% of defensive snaps, grabbing five combined tackles. Similar to Hummel before him, a lot of injuries would need to happen for Gervase to see the field enough to be fantasy relevant. Feel free to pass for now.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Nothing to note here, as the Rams didn't really play anyone of fantasy relevance in this game. Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Rams will head to Cincinnati to play the Bengals in their final preseason game next week.
Denver Broncos @ Buffalo Bills
The Bills looked as sharp as ever, defeating the Broncos by a score of 42 to 15.
Denver Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Say what you will about Joe Schobert, but when he plays he produces. On 53% of defensive snaps played, Schobert racked up a couple of combined tackles. He was signed after the Jonas Griffith injury as insurance. During Griffith's four to six-week recovery timeline, Schobert will have some nice production. After Griffith is back is anyone's guess. Tread lightly!
- Alex Singleton continued where he left off last week, grabbing two tackles on only 14 defensive snaps. While Josey Jewell is still the linebacker you want in Denver with Griffith's injury, Singleton is certainly making his case for his consideration as LB2 there.
Surprise Performance:
- Barrington Wade paced the team with seven combined tackles. He is not presently predicted to play meaningful snaps come September, so you can avoid him appropriately.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Nik Bonitto saw 48% of defensive snaps, but you don't see him on the stat sheet. This is a back-to-back disappointing performance for the pass-rush specialist. Time is running out for me on him being relevant for redraft leagues this year. For now, I'm going to pass.
Looking to Next Week:
The Broncos will play host to the Minnesota Vikings next week.
Buffalo Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Gregory Rousseau, welcome to 2022! On only 11 snaps, Rousseau filled out the stat sheet with three combined tackles and a quarterback hit. Although he had a slightly disappointing rookie campaign, many think the addition of Von Miller to the locker room will help Rousseau break out this upcoming season. This performance does nothing to stop that narrative. Target him in drafts.
Surprise Performance:
- Andre Smith had a nice day, grabbing seven combined tackles and a tackle for a loss. He is scheduled to miss the first six weeks of the NFL season due to a suspension, so you can probably find a better linebacker for your squad.
- Matt Milano and Tremaine Edmunds both played 29% of defensive snaps, but only had one tackle between them. We expect better production than this from the Bills' starting linebackers. I imagine this was a preseason fluke.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- A.J. Epenesa played a solid 27% of defensive snaps but did not find his way onto the stat sheet. Watching the game, Epenesa was all around the quarterback, with a sack taken away due to a penalty on the Bills' secondary. He's still someone you probably want to avoid in drafts, but don't be surprised if he's on your team by the end of the year via the waiver wire.
- Ed Oliver played only 12 snaps, but it was nice to see him out there. Don't be too upset that he didn't put up any stats, once he gets more playing time he'll have those opportunities. Still draft with confidence as you DT3.
Looking to Next Week:
Buffalo will be heading south to take on the Carolina Panthers next week.
Detroit Lions @ Indianapolis Colts
The Lions took down the Colts in a close one, winning 27 to 26.
Detroit Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- For those counting at home, that is back-to-back excellent weeks from Kerby Joseph. Joseph played 100% of defensive snaps and racked up five combined tackles in the process. We know there are other players ahead of him on the depth chart, but if the Lions start out slow out of the gate they might turn to their young players to see what they have. Joseph might be a waiver wire diamond come November.
- Derrick Barnes produced like you would want a starting linebacker to produce, racking up three combined tackles on only 16 defensive snaps played. There is a real chance Barnes has a break-out year this year with more opportunities. He's not someone you need to draft, but pay attention to the Lions' linebackers come the regular season. Someone will emerge, and it just might be Barnes.
Surprise Performance:
- John Cominsky had an excellent game, grabbing six combined tackles, a sack, and two tackles for a loss. He is buried on the depth chart, so you can safely ignore him in your draft.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Jeff Okudah played 31% of defensive snaps and had a tackle to his name. Look, we are all happy he is finally happy and out there playing. He still has a lot of work to do to earn your trust. You can probably find a better cornerback for your team.
- If you were looking for another great game from Aidan Hutchinson, you would have been disappointed. The star rookie did not play a single snap in the game.
Looking to Next Week:
The Lions will head to Pittsburgh to play the Steelers next week.
Indianapolis Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Nick Cross continues to stamp his name into the IDP consciousness. Cross grabbed two tackles and a pass defended on only 31% of defensive snaps played. If you have been sleeping on Cross, stop it. He's someone you want, especially at where he's going in drafts. Get him and be happy you did!
Surprise Performance:
- Forrest Rhyne saw through the trees and grabbed an impressive eight combined tackles. With Shaquille Leonard's current absence, there are some opportunities for players like Rhyne. He's making the most of it, but once Leonard is back Rhyne will fade back to irrelevance. you can avoid him in drafts.
- Tony Brown had a nice day in the office, grabbing six combined tackles, two passes defended, and an interception. He is fighting for a roster spot, so he shouldn't be finding his way onto your roster.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Bobby Okereke and Yannick Ngakoue did not suit up for this contest, so don't fret that they aren't on the stat sheet. Hopefully, we see the entire Colts' starting lineup next week in their final preseason game.
Looking to Next Week:
The Colts will play host to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next week.
Washington Commanders @ Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs got one in the win columns, defeating the Commanders 24 to 14.
Washington Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- If you've been ignoring the growing IDP chatter about Kamren Curl, I hope this is a wake-up call. On 47% of defensive snaps, Curl paced the team with six combined tackles. He's going to be huge for the Commanders this year, and you can still get him at an insane discount in drafts. Go out and get him!
- Cole Holcomb is about as consistent as they come. Getting three combined tackles on 47% of defensive snaps played, he is a lock to be a productive LB2 for your roster.
- Montez Sweat found his way to the quarterback, grabbing a sack on only 21 defensive snaps played. He was disappointing last year, along with most of the Commanders' pass rushers, but performances like this show you why people were excited about him.
Surprise Performance:
- Jamin Davis had a nice day, getting three tackles on 48% of defensive snaps played. He's in the surprise column since he was such a disappointment last year. There is a big opportunity for Davis to be relevant this year, so this performance has to excite you. At his current ADP, he's probably worth a flier.
- Daron Payne showed up in a big way, grabbing three combined tackles on only 23 defensive snaps. At such a thin position, if Payne can consistently get some tackles he'll be instantly relevant. He turned it on at the end of last year, so it's nice to see that continue. Grab him as a solid sleeper.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- There is nothing else to note from a Commanders' perspective!
Looking to Next Week:
The Commanders head to Indianapolis to play the Colts in their final preseason game.
Kansas City Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Nick Bolton continues to show up, getting three combined tackles and a pass defended on only 11 defensive snaps played. I've already written about his potential, but if Bolton continues this efficiency he is going to be a stud for your team this year. Draft him as a solid LB2 with LB1 potential.
- Leo Chenal picked up where he left off last week, grabbing three tackles on 31% of defensive snaps played. He is but an injury away from being very relevant to the IDP community. All he does is rack up tackles.
Surprise Performance:
- George Karlaftis played 40% of defensive snaps and had one heck of a day, grabbing two combined tackles, a sack, a tackle for a loss, and a quarterback hit. It's a little surprising seeing such results from a rookie pass rusher, but you have to love it. We want to see this more consistently before going and drafting Karlaftis too highly in redraft, but he's on the right track.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Trent McDuffie played only nine defensive snaps, which indicates to me the Chiefs already have seen what they need to see out of him to know what his role on the defense will be this year. I assume it's as a starter, and I like him as a sleeper cornerback.
Looking to Next Week:
The Chiefs will play host to the Green Bay Packers in their final preseason game.
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Jacksonville Jaguars
The Steelers stole a victory from the Jaguars by a score of 16 to 15.
Pittsburgh Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- T.J. Watt is good at football. On 12 defensive snaps, Watt nabbed two combined tackles and a sack. He should be one of the first defenders off the board in all drafts.
- Larry Ogunjobi continues to prove he is of some IDP relevance, grabbing three combined tackles. He is not going to win you any weeks, but he is one of my favorite bye-week fill-in guys who you know will come in and put up some stats.
Surprise Performance:
- DeMarvin Leal followed up on his solid week last week with a two tackle, one-sack performance. The sack is what gets Leal in the surprise column, albeit a very nice surprise. If he can keep up this momentum Leal will be skyrocketing up the board at such a thin position. Consider this your first warning: Leal might be the real deal.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Devin Bush played like the starter you want him to be, racking up four combined tackles on only 30% of defensive snaps played. He hasn't put together another super IDP campaign after his excellent rookie year, but I'll be optimistic that he'll find his way back into relevance this year as a back of your roster stash.
- Minkah Fitzpatrick played 21% of defensive snaps and did not find his way onto the stat sheet. I'm not concerned yet, but you definitely want to see some production from someone that is going as a top 10 safety.
Looking to Next Week:
Pittsburgh will play host to the Detroit Lions next week.
Jacksonville Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Foyesade Oluokun played up to his big new contract, grabbing five combined tackles on 49% of defensive snaps played. The Jaguars paid him a ton of money, so you know he's going to play a bunch. Draft him with confidence.
- Chad Muma continues to take advantage of Devin Lloyd's absence, nabbing four combined tackles on 51% of defensive snaps played. I wrote about this the past few weeks, but if Muma sees the field he's going to rack up tackles. He should be locked into your brain as a waiver wire candidate if there are any injuries in Jacksonville.
Surprise Performance:
- Travon Walker played 46% of defensive snaps and grabbed two combined tackles and a tackle for a loss. Where people are drafting him, you want to see more production than this. He still has time to figure it out, but a red flag is starting to appear for me at his current ADP.
- Andre Cisco had a nice game, getting four combined tackles on only 24 snaps played. This is a much higher tackle rate than Cisco typically has, so I think this game is more of an aberration than a new normal.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Once again we did not get to see Devin Lloyd. I know a lot of us are excited about him, but I want to see how he looks on the field before getting too excited in drafts.
Looking to Next Week:
Jacksonville will head a little north to take on the Atlanta Falcons next week.
Las Vegas Raiders @ Miami Dolphins
The Raiders took down the Dolphins 15 to 13.
Las Vegas Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Luke Masterson performed how you'd want your backup linebacker to perform. On 61% of defensive snaps, Masterson rocked six combined tackles. He's an injury away from being relevant, but it's nice to see him make the most of his opportunities.
Surprise Performance:
- Tashawn Bower had a wonderful game, racking up five combined tackles and a sack. He's presently a backup behind two pro-bowl-level players, so he's not someone you need to roster at this time.
- Johnathan Abram played 40% of defensive snaps and only put up two combined tackles and a pass defended. When he plays, Abram typically racks up tackles, so this number is surprisingly low. I expect this to correct itself in the regular season.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- We didn't see the likes of Chandler Jones or Maxx Crosby on the field, so this is why they didn't show up in the stat sheet.
Looking to Next Week:
The Raiders will play host to the New England Patriots next week.
Miami Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Channing Tindall continued his great preseason, racking up six combined tackles on 41% of defensive snaps played. I believe he is playing his way into playing time come the regular season. He'll be a great waiver wire add later in the season, mark my words.
- It's nice to see Zach Sieler grab a sack in this game. He's a situational pass-rusher who occasionally nabs a sack, so his stat line is fairly consistent with what I'd expect from him. He's nothing more than a best-ball draft candidate.
Surprise Performance:
- Brandon Jones played 30% of defensive snaps, so it's a little disappointing that he only ended up with two assists. He has been someone people have been excited about breaking out this year, but today threw a bit of a wet blanket on that for me. Let's see what he can do next week.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Christian Wilkins only played 13 defensive snaps, so it's not surprising he only showed up with an assist on the stat sheet. Don't be too concerned about this performance.
Looking to Next Week:
Miami will play host to the Philidelphia Eagles in their final preseason game next week.
San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings
The 49ers walked away with a road victory, beating the Vikings 17 to 7.
San Francisco Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Javon Kinlaw grabbing a sack on only 20 defensive snaps played is exactly what we'd hope to see from the former first-rounder. His season was cut short last year due to an injury, so it's nice seeing him out there and performing.
Surprise Performance:
- Oren Burks led the team again in tackles, nabbing seven on 65% of defensive snaps played. As mentioned last week, I don't expect him to get much playing time in the regular season. Feel free to avoid him in drafts.
- Tariq Castro-Fields had a nice day, going off for seven combined tackles on 63% of defensive snaps played. He's a long shot to be relevant come September, so please ignore this performance when it comes to your drafts.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The 49ers decided to sit most of their presumed starters, so don't be alarmed that your favorite names aren't on the stat sheet.
Looking to Next Week:
The 49ers will head to Houston to play the Texans next week.
Minnesota Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Lewis Cine putting up three combined tackles on 41% of defensive snaps played is exciting. He has an opportunity to start beside Harrison Smith this year, so if Cine can produce when he's out there it's worth noting. Another week like this will warrant drafting Cine as a sleeper.
Surprise Performance:
- T.Y. McGill had a monster game, going off for five combined tackles and one and a half sacks. Even with this great game, he is a long shot from being relevant in the regular season.
- Akayleb Evans was a tackling machine, grabbing nine combined tackles on 75 defensive snaps played. He is another player you can safely avoid in drafts based on where he is on the depth chart.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The Vikings rested most of their presumed starters, so there wasn't much to learn from their game this week. Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Vikings head west to take on the Denver Broncos next week.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Tennessee Titans
The Titans gave their fans a nice home victory, beating the Buccaneers 13 to 3.
Tampa Bay Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Joe Tryon had a nice day, grabbing three tackles and two tackles for a loss. Tryon has historically been a role player, so he's not someone you can rely on for consistent production. When he gets opportunities he produces, so he's best viewed as a waiver wire pickup if the Bucs suffer some injuries.
Surprise Performance:
- Olakunle Fatukasi led the team again with nine combined tackles and one and a half sacks. The Bucs are stacked at linebacker, so the expectation is that Fatukasi won't be getting much if any playing time in the regular season. Avoid with confidence.
- J.J. Russell had a great tackling day, nabbing seven combined. Much like Fatukasi, the problem for Russell is that he plays a position that the Bucs are loaded at. You can avoid him in drafts.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Like many other teams this week, the Bucs did not play any of their veteran starters. Hopefully next week we can see the starters in the Bucs' last preseason game!
Looking to Next Week:
The Buccaneers head to Indianapolis to take on the Colts in their final preseason game.
Tennessee Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Amani Hooker had a nice day in the office, grabbing two tackles. When healthy, Hooker provides some stability at the back end of your roster. He's best viewed as a best-ball draft candidate.
- Caleb Farley added a pass defended to two tackles to round out his day. He has an injury-riddled rookie campaign last year, so it's great seeing him perform while healthy. He's a deeper-league candidate for your roster.
Surprise Performance:
- Shakur Brown paced the team with five combined tackles. He is really deep on the depth chart, so you don't need to worry about him in your fantasy draft.
- Joe Jones had a solid overall day, adding an interception and a pass defended to his four combined tackles. He is also rather deep on the depth chart, so he's not worthy of fantasy consideration.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Teair Tart showing up for two combined tackles is encouraging for the starter. He typically doesn't show up on the stat sheet, but since he's in a shallow position group it's worth noting. You can safely ignore him in drafts until he can prove he can produce more consistently.
Looking to Next Week:
The Titans will play host to the Arizona Cardinals in their final preseason game.
Dallas Cowboys @ Los Angeles Chargers
The Cowboys took home the victory, defeating the Chargers 32 to 18.
Dallas Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Jabril Cox continues to impress, grabbing three combined tackles on only 32% of defensive snaps played. He's been getting a lot of buzz out of camp, and this performance does nothing to slow that down. He's a sleeper I've been targeting at the end of drafts.
Surprise Performance:
- Devin Harper led the team with seven combined tackles. He is presently at the end of the depth chart, so he's not worth considering for your fantasy team.
- Trysten Hill had a nice overall day, adding a sack to three combined tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Much like Harper, he is buried on the depth chart, so he won't be relevant for much longer.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Neville Gallimore and Osa Odighizuwa both only played 13 snaps each, so it's not surprising they didn't really show up on the stat sheet. We can expect more from them when they get more consistent playing time.
Looking to Next Week:
The Cowboys will play host to the Seahawks in their final preseason game.
Los Angeles Chargers Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- JT Woods showed us why the Chargers drafted him in the third round this year, putting up three combined tackles. It's exactly what you'd expect to see from a rookie getting 76% of defensive snaps in a preseason game. He's a long shot at being relevant this year, but he's a name I'll keep paying attention to moving forward.
Surprise Performance:
- Brandon Sebastian led the Chargers with six combined tackles. Based on where he is on the depth chart, I don't expect him to be relevant in terms of IDP leagues this year.
- Amen Ogbongbemiga also had a nice day, having six combined tackles. Just like Sebastian before him, Ogbongbemiga shouldn't be considered for your roster unless you are looking to draft people based on name alone.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The Chargers opted to not play many of their presumed starters, so don't be worried that you don't see many of the names you'd expect to see on the stat sheet.
Looking to Next Week:
The Chargers will head to New Orleans to take on the Saint next week.
Philidelphia Eagles @ Cleveland Browns
The Eagles eeked out a victory against Browns, winning by a score of 21 to 20.
Philidelphia Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Nakobe Dean performed as well as we would expect, picking up where he left off last week. Dean ended the day with three combined tackles. Because of the Eagles' present depth chart situation, Dean will not be forced into action until he is ready. My guess is this won't happen until much later in the season, so tread carefully with him.
Surprise Performance:
- Josh Jobe led the Eagles with seven combined tackles. Based on where he is on the depth chart, you can safely ignore him from an IDP perspective.
- K'Von Wallace has a nice day as well, racking up five combined tackles. He is another player who won't be doing much come September, so you can ignore him in your drafts.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The Eagles opted to rest most of their presumed starters, so we don't have much more to analyze here. Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Eagles will travel south to take on the Miami Dolphins in their final preseason game.
Cleveland Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- The Browns rested most/all of their presumed starters this week, so there isn't really anyone that I had expectations for in this game. Check back next week!
Surprise Performance:
- Richard LeCounte led the way with 10 combined tackles and a tackle for a loss. It would take some injuries before you can le-count on him in the regular season. Feel free to ignore him in drafts.
- Jordan Kunaszyk had a solid day as well, racking up seven combined tackles. He is another player who is getting a ton of snaps in the preseason that I don't expect to be relevant in a few weeks.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Nothing more to note as the Browns didn't play anyone that we need to take special note of their performance.
Looking to Next Week:
The Browns will play host to the Chicago Bears in their final preseason game.
Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Giants
The Giants took home the win, beating the Bengals 25 to 22.
Cincinnati Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Daxton Hill continues to prove he belongs, adding an interception to his six combined tackles. It has been noted before that he has some "proving it" to do before getting regular snaps in the regular season. I'd argue he's doing just that. It won't be long before Hill is an IDP regular.
Surprise Performance:
- Clay Johnston put up an absolutely ridiculous stat line, putting up 20 combined tackles and a sack. He is presently fairly low on the depth chart so we don't expect him to be fantasy relevant, but my goodness what a performance.
- Jalen Davis had a real nice game, rocking seven combined tackles with a couple of passes defended. Davis is another player who is far down the depth chart, so you can safely ignore him for drafts.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Many of the regular Bengals starters did not play, so there is not much else to add! Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Bengals will play host to the Los Angeles Rams next week.
New York Giants Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Tae Crowder put up a lovely stat line of four combined tackles. This is exactly the kind of production Crowder put up last year, so it's nice to see that continue. Draft him as your LB3 with confidence.
- Blake Martinez looked like he is going to pick up where he left off a couple of years ago before his ACL injury. He only picked up an assist, but the fact that he is out there playing is excellent news. There is still some risk in drafting a player coming off such a major injury, but if Martinex can return to what he was, he'll be a steal for you in your draft.
Surprise Performance:
- Kayvon Thibodeaux looked really solid, even though his stat line did not look very favorable. He had to leave the game early with an apparent injury, so be sure to follow the news closely in the upcoming week to know the severity. If he's healthy, he's going to wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.
- Micah McFadden had a wonderful game, grabbing five combined tackles. He is behind Blake Martinez on the depth chart, but as we know Martinez is coming off a major injury. If the opportunity presents itself, it's nice to see that McFadden would be able to rise to the task.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Nothing else to note from a New York perspective at this time.
Looking to Next Week:
The Giants will face off against their New York counterpart, the Jets, next week.
Baltimore Ravens @ Arizona Cardinals
The Ravens took home the victory, defeating the Cardinals 24 to 17.
Baltimore Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Kyle Hamilton flashed some skills, grabbing three combined tackles. He continues to be deployed all over the field, but it's nice seeing that translate to production on the field. Continue to draft him as a safety sleeper who could turn into a real nice S2 with time.
Surprise Performance:
- Brandon Stephens paced the Ravens with six combined tackles. He is not someone you have to worry about drafting in your fantasy leagues at this time.
- Chuck Wiley really got after the quarterback, grabbing a sack and half along with four combined tackles. I don't see a clear path for him to playing time at this point.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Odafe Oweh showed up briefly on the stat line, grabbing an assist in limited action. He is someone who could quickly grow into a regular role on the defense, I just don't know if he's there yet to justify a redraft pick for me just yet.
Looking to Next Week:
The Ravens will play host to the Washington Commanders next week.
Arizona IDP Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Zaven Collins showed up on the stat sheet, grabbing a tackle on limited action. There are a lot of people really excited about Collins' potential this year, so we'll continue to monitor how he's being used on the Cardinals' defense.
Surprise Performance:
- Christian Matthew led the team with seven tackles. He is very far down the depth chart, so he is not someone you have to worry about drafting at this time.
- Chandler Wooten had a brilliant day, nabbing six combined tackles and an interception. He is another player who is really low on the depth chart, so he doesn't need to be on your roster at this time.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The Cardinals rested most of their presumed starters, which is not helpful for us trying to figure out what the heck they are doing on defense. Hopefully, we get some clarity next week.
Looking to Next Week:
The Cardinals will head over to Tennessee to take on the Titans in their final preseason game.
Atlanta Falcons @ New York Jets
The Jets took home the victory, beating the Falcons 24 to 16.
Atlanta Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Richie Grant only played 13 defensive snaps and a solo tackle. He has a real chance at IDP relevance this year, so it's nice seeing him make some plays when he's on the field. He's a real deep-league sleeper to keep an eye on.
Surprise Performance:
- DeAngelo Malone lead the team with six combined tackles. He's extremely low on the depth chart, so he is not worth drafting.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- Troy Andersen played 56% of defensive snaps and only grabbed two tackles. He's a promising rookie and typically a tackling monster, so this was a bit of a disappointing performance. He is best to fade in drafts until he sees the field, which will only come after some injuries.
- Rashaan Evans only played 13 defensive snaps, so it's not surprising he only put up an assist. The Falcons' linebacker group is a bit murky, but we expect him to be one of the guys in the mix.
Looking to Next Week:
Atlanta will play host to the Jacksonville Jaguars in their final preseason game.
New York Jets Analysis
The Stats:
Image Credit: National Football League
Performed as Expected:
- Ahmad Gardner garnered a solo tackle on only 12 defensive snaps played. He's one to watch, as rookie cornerbacks are typically not IDP relevant. We know he's going to get playing time, the question is will he be IDP productive with it? This is a good sign, but don't go crazy yet.
Surprise Performance:
- Jamien Sherwood had another nice week, grabbing four combined tackles and a pass defended. He's currently behind some pretty big names on the linebacker group so he's best to be avoided, but it's nice to see the converted safety playing well after his season-ending injury last year.
- Del'Shawn Phillips led the team with six combined tackles. He's safe to avoid in fantasy drafts until his place on the depth chart changes.
Other Playing Time/Performance Notes:
- The Jets rested most of their presumed starters, so there isn't much more to update here! Check back next week!
Looking to Next Week:
The Jets will play host to a team that has a long way to travel next week, the New York Giants!
Thank you for reading the IDP Rundown, preseason Week 2! If you like what you read, be sure to come back every Monday for more of the same analysis! You can find my IDP Guys author page here if you want to read my other content. You can find me on Twitter at @mrecord21. Be sure to follow @IDPGuys to keep up with all the latest fantasy news!
Comments are closed.