The second weekend of NFL preseason action has wrapped up and the pressure mounts for players around the league looking to make it. There is now only one game left for everyone to show why they deserve a spot and, unfortunately, a lot of guys will see their run in the pros end over the next week or so. The incoming rookies from the FCS ranks especially need to show out to make their case and these ones did over the last set of games.
Efton Chism III, WR – New England (Eastern Washington)
For the second
straight week, Efton Chism put on a receiving clinic for the Patriots and further solidified his chances of making the final roster cuts in New England. Against the Vikings on Saturday afternoon the ex-Eastern Washington star caught six passes for a team-leading 71 yards and posted a touchdown. Chism’s route running has been on point and his ability to get open has jumped out. With one game left to prove himself, it’s hard to see Chism not landing a spot on the team. New England will face the Giants next weekend to close out the preseason.
Amar Johnson, RB – Green Bay (South Dakota State)
Former South Dakota State running back Amar Johnson continues to make his case for a spot on the Green Bay depth chart with another strong performance against Indianapolis. Johnson got seven touches on Saturday and went for 22 yards and notched a touchdown. He also caught one pass for 11 yards in the Packers 23-19 win. The fact that he’s seen the field so much over the first two weeks is a good sign but he’ll still need one more strong showing in the finale against Seattle.
Keondre Jackson, S – Baltimore (Illinois State)
Keondre Jackson put himself on the radar on Saturday for the Ravens. Against Dallas the ex-Illinois State DB authored six tackles, one of which came behind the line of scrimmage. Jackson tied for second on the Ravens defense in total stops and got to see significant playing time. He showed tremendous ball awareness, flying all around the secondary and ending at or near the play on most every snap. Jackson will get one more chance next week as Baltimore faces Washington in the preseason finale.
T.J. Moore, CB – New York Giants (Mercer)
The Giants got a big game from former Mercer standout T.J. Moore in their win over the Jets on Saturday evening. Moore, who was a finalist for last year’s Buck Buchanan Award, got in on five tackles and deflected a pass. After a quiet first week, he made a much-needed splash, displaying his exceptional speed and play-reading ability. Moore has a real chance to find a home on New York’s defense if he can deliver in their final exhibition contest against the Patriots.
Warren Peeples, LB – Tampa Bay (Southeastern Louisiana)
Tampa Bay got a nice win over Pittsburgh on Saturday night and their defense was a big reason why. A big part of that defense was SLU alum Warren Peeples who showed out at the linebacker position. Peeples made six stops versus the Steelers and broke through the line for a sack. He was an undrafted free agent signee with the Bucs earlier this offseason and proved why he’s at least worthy of further consideration when it comes to roster cuts later this month. The Buccaneers will take on Buffalo next weekend, giving Peeples a final opportunity to showcase his talent.
