The NFL regular season is just around the corner, and teams are making their final preparations. In week 3 of the preseason, they provided a last chance for players to impress coaches and secure a spot on the 53-man roster. With all 32 teams in action, the weekend they featured standout performances and moments of uncertainty, especially for quarterbacks Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson.
Bryce Young Shows Potential
Bryce Young, the 2023 first overall pick by the Carolina Panthers, had a challenging rookie season, with the Panthers finishing at the bottom of the league. Expectations were high after Carolina traded valuable draft picks and wide receiver DJ Moore to the Chicago Bears to secure Young. Despite his struggles last year, Young’s brief appearance in Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills offered a glimpse of his potential.
Young played only one drive but made it count, completing 6 of 8 passes for 70 yards and a touchdown. His standout moment came with a 17-yard fourth-down conversion to Diontae Johnson. “A fourth-down conversion in there, but saw him extend plays with his legs, keeping his eyes down the field, finding guys,” noted new Panthers head coach Dave Canales. Canales praised Young for his ability to manage the run game effectively, suggesting that Young’s development could be pivotal for the Panthers’ future success.
Anthony Richardson’s Rollercoaster Performance
Indianapolis Colts fans experienced Anthony Richardson’s highs and lows during their team’s 27-14 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Richardson, drafted fourth overall in 2023, showed flashes of brilliance and moments of inconsistency, highlighting his potential and areas needing improvement.
Richardson’s first drive was impressive, leading an 80-yard march downfield, capped off with a touchdown pass to rookie receiver Adonai Mitchell. However, his next drive was worse when his pass was intercepted and returned for a touchdown by the Bengals’ Jordan Battle. The rest of Richardson’s night was quiet, with his final three drives ending in punts. Consistency will be essential for Richardson as he aims to solidify his role as the Colts’ long-term starter.
Quarterback Uncertainties Loom
While most NFL teams have settled on their starting quarterbacks, uncertainty remains for the New England Patriots and the Dallas Cowboys. Under new head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots are yet to name a starter after releasing Mac Jones. Jacoby Brissett, signed in free agency, competes with rookie Drake Maye for the starting role. An injury to Brissett during the Patriots’ loss to the Washington Commanders may force Mayo to decide sooner rather than later.
In Dallas, Dak Prescott remains the clear starter, but questions about his future with the team linger. Prescott is entering the final year of his contract, and the Cowboys may look to Trey Lance as a potential successor. Lance, acquired from the San Francisco 49ers, played extensively in Week 3 but struggled with five interceptions. Lance’s performance indicates he may still have a long way to go before being considered a viable replacement for Prescott.
Week 3 of the NFL preseason offered excitement, hope, and lingering questions as teams prepare for the regular season. While Bryce Young and Anthony Richardson showed their potential, becoming franchise quarterbacks will require time, patience, and consistent performance. The upcoming regular season promises to intrigue, particularly with quarterback battles and the ongoing development of young talents.
