Preseason Week 2 AFC South rookie watch: RB Tank Bigsby rises up Jaguars depth chart
By Beau Adams
Undecided, Houston Texans: CJ Stroud Faces Challenges in Preseason Loss... again
The Houston Texans have a rookie quarterback in C.J. Stroud, who faced challenges in a preseason matchup against the Miami Dolphins. While the team ultimately lost the game, Stroud showed flashes of his potential despite a difficult start.
In the Texans' opening drive, Stroud struggled with accuracy, and the team took a delay of game penalty. However, he found a rhythm on the team's second drive and made impressive throws. He displayed poise under pressure and showed the ability to find open receivers.
Stroud didn't have an eye-popping star line, good or bad; He went 7-of-12 for 60 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions. Combine that with his shotty 50 percent completion rate for 13 yards with a minus 15-yard sack outing in Week 1, it’s been an unimpressive preseason for the rookie.
Although Stroud had some inconsistencies throughout the game, his performance highlighted his potential as a young quarterback. With time and experience, he can develop into a playmaker for the Texans' offense.
Winner, Tyjae Spears: A Rising Star for the Tennessee Titans
Tyjae Spears, the third-round pick out of Tulane, has been turning heads in training camp and preseason games for the Tennessee Titans. Spears had a standout performance in their matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, displaying his explosive running abilities and playmaking skills.
On a 33-yard touchdown run, Spears showcased his speed and agility by hurdling over a safety before reaching the end zone untouched. According to Reel Analytics, his top-end speed of 20.3 miles per hour demonstrated his ability to break away from defenders and make big plays.
Throughout the preseason, Spears has been a consistent performer, averaging 6.8 yards per carry and showing his potential as a dynamic running back. His vision, quickness, and ability to find the end zone make him a strong candidate for the Titans' No. 2 back behind Derrick Henry.