1 – I realize that this column will be outdated tomorrow. Oh well, can’t win them all.
2 – If you think this game was irrelevant, keep in mind that many of the players will end up playing one, two or many significant snaps for your favorite team. They might very well be the deciding factor between a win or loss in a certain game. Many of them will be signed to the Cards’ practice squad, and from there they will have many chances to fight their way onto the game roster, and then we are back to my first point.
3 – Cam Thomas have been great the last two preseason games. Yes, I wrote that. Dominating.
4 – I like that several players have stepped up in two or three preseason games. “Everyone” can have a great game, but showing it repeatedly is what separate players.
5 – Xavier Weaver looks likely to make the final roster. Because of the stupid suspension to Zay Jones (come on, Goodell, show a little faith in the legal system instead of always thinking that you can do everything better) there is obviously room for an additional WR on the roster. Not only does Weaver return kicks, but he clearly has abilities in the passing game. Supposedly he also had a great training camp.
6 – I am not sure if either Tune or Ridder have shown enough to be Plan B. Rumors has it that they will sign a new guy (look out for a trade for Jacoby Brissett, if Ossenfort can get the prize down far enough).
7 – The first half was another tough, tough experience for Christian Jones, but he got a lot better in the second half where he was moved to the left side.
8 – Jesse Luketa have look good in all three games. Coupled with his great special teams ability, that could earn him a roster spot.
9 – If Ossenfort picks up someone cut from another team, which position group will it be at? I am going with defensive line, but in reality, I think it is difficult to find that many open spots overall.
10 – I think that edge rusher Chris Garrett makes the team. He flashed on several plays, and being the reigning UFL Special Teams Player of the Year should open a door for him. By the way, take notice that he got a contract with more than league minimum salary. That is pretty rare and could give a little signal.
11 – Jon Gaines looks lost out there.
12 – DT Naquan Jones have done some good things this preseason. Him and Phil Hoskins showed some promise and could be practice squad-options.
13 – Darren Hall reminds me of Dre Kirkpatrick in the sense that he is so fun to watch. He wins some, he loses some, but he gives his all on every play. I really like him.
14 – Andre Baccellia is another one of my guys. He has impressed for three games straight.
15 – I dream that Ossenfort can trade one or more fringe players for late round picks. But I am also a draft nerd, so go figure.