Thanks to surprising developments around the league, the 2015 NFL preseason has proved itself even more eventful than anticipated.
From injuries to starting quarterbacks to rookies showing out on game day, August brought an exciting month of football.
With that being said, some incidents certainly demanded more headlines than others.
Jordy Nelson tears ACL, out for season
At first, the injury seemed relatively innocuous. Perhaps it was a twisted ankle, maybe an uncomfortable pull on Nelson’s hamstring. But the Green Bay Packers wide receiver sustained a season-ending ACL tear in the team’s second preseason game, dramatically changing Green Bay’s outlook for 2015. Yes, Aaron Rodgers’ presence improves the Packers’ pass-catching unit, but he can’t make any of them as dominant or productive as Nelson.
Robert Griffin III gets benched, Kirk Cousins named starter for 2015
Football fans wondered if Robert Griffin III would be the starter when the Washington football team took the field in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins, but it was shocking to find out he’s officially the backup for the season. Head coach Jay Gruden dropped that bomb on Monday, tabbing Kirk Cousins as the No. 1 quarterback in Washington—and not just temporarily. Barring injury, Cousins will remain under center throughout the year. RG3’s benching felt inevitable, but the decisive nature of Gruden’s choice was shocking.
Tyrod Taylor overtakes Matt Cassel, EJ Manuel
Shortly after Taylor signed with the Buffalo Bills, ESPN’s Mike Rodak revealed the dual-threat quarterback turned down a larger payday from the Denver Broncos in hopes of securing a starting spot. Five months later, Taylor’s aspirations have been formally recognized. The career backup will open the 2015 campaign under center for the Bills, who managed a 9-7 record last season despite poor quarterback play. If Taylor proves to be an upgrade, Buffalo could reach the playoffs for the first time in this millennium.
Jarryd Hayne closes in on roster spot
The Australian ripped off a 53-yard run and 33-yard kick return in his debut and tallied 138 all-purpose yards in his next outing. Consequently, Hayne has given San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula enough film to make a decision about the converted rugby player’s future. Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News notes Tomsula said, “I’ve seen what I need to see. There’s been a great evaluation on him.” Hayne’s contributions on special teams might prove to be enough for a spot on the 49ers roster—and an outstanding story in the process.
Ryan Tannehill dominates everyone in his path
Back in May, the Dolphins quarterback signed a contract extension worth nearly $100 million, and he hasn’t wasted any time backing up the massive salary. According to Pro Football Focus, Tannehill has completed 80 percent of his passes while under pressure this preseason. Overall, the fourth-year quarterback boasts a 33-of-41 mark with three touchdowns and zero interceptions. If Tannehill brings this efficiency into the regular season, the Dolphins will definitely reach the playoffs.
Tyler Lockett explodes onto the national scene
A majority of NFL fans didn’t know who the rookie out of Kansas State was before this summer, but that quickly changed. Lockett introduced himself to the Denver Broncos with a 103-yard kick-return touchdown in his preseason debut. Since then, the 5-foot-11 receiver has continued blowing us away. Through three outings, Lockett has racked up a 37.4-yard average on seven kick returns, a 26.3-yard punt-return clip and four receptions for 52 yards. The Seattle Seahawks found another gem via the draft, and approximately no one is shocked.