The 2016 NFL Preseason is here and while most modest fans may not care, there are important aspects every fan should be watching for. The Preseason is often times a great indicator to see a specific position battle or how a player may be used in each coaches scheme. What 5 defensive players should you keep your eye on this preseason?
- Myles Jack
The Jaguars got themselves a steal in the 2nd round with Myles Jack as he would have been the number one player on my board if fully healthy. The doctors have determined Jack is a likely candidate for micro-fracture surgery down the line, but as of now he should be fine. The Jags probably won’t play him for long stretches during the preseason but he will be a fun one to watch. The former UCLA linebacker has not played since September due to a knee injury he suffered in college.
2. Leonard Williams
I called Williams a can’t miss prospect a year ago and delivered on that promise as a rookie. Williams recorded 63 total tackles from the 3-4 defensive end spot as a devastating run stuffer. He also added 3 sacks along the way as well. Heading into year two expect Williams to really take off as one of the games best.
3. Panthers Cornerbacks: Daryl Worley, Zack Sanchez, and James Bradberry
The cornerback position is wide open after the Norman departure. Three rookies above figure to have a big say in the matter. Robert McClain is realistically the only proven option on the entire roster. If the secondary struggles its hard to see the Panthers repeating on a 15-1 season. Someone is going to have to step up in a big way, the preseason should be a good indicator of who.
4. Eric Kendricks
I called Eric Kendricks a can’t miss prospect a year ago and all he did was deliver on that promise. In 11 starts Kendricks was a tackling machine recording 92 of them. He also had 4 sacks to go along with it at the inside linebacker spot. Heading into year two expect Kendricks to make the jump and become one of the best linebackers in football.
5. Joey Bosa
I have been on record multiple times saying I believe Bosa will turn out to be a bust. Bosa’s job got even harder when he was selected by the Chargers as he now has to move from 4-3 defensive end to 3-4 outside linebacker. Bosa is the only unsigned rookie which only adds my intrigue to my opinion. For more on Bosa click here.
