The second week of the NFL preseason featured multiple compelling performances as teams evaluated their rosters ahead of the regular season. The varying approaches to player usage during preseason games—with some teams resting starters while others provide extensive snaps—creates challenges in assessing genuine breakout talent versus temporary preseason success.
San Francisco’s 2026 second-round pick De’Zhaun Stribling continued his strong performances with four catches for 46 yards against Los Angeles, bringing his preseason totals to 11 receptions for 109 yards across two games. This production marked the first instance since at least 2017 of a player accumulating at least 11 catches in the first 20 minutes of consecutive preseason contests, according to CBS Sports Research. Despite the noted injury concerns at wide receiver for the 49ers, Stribling appears positioned to contribute meaningfully to the offense under head coach Kyle Shanahan’s direction.
On the defensive side, Houston’s newer draft selections made significant impacts against Las Vegas. Fourth-round linebacker Wade Woodaz recorded an 80-yard interception return for a touchdown, while second-round defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, listed at 6-foot-3-inches and 326 pounds, demonstrated pass-rushing abilities with an 11-yard sack. McDonald’s performance proved encouraging for a Texans defensive unit that prioritized addressing the defensive tackle position despite his college reputation as primarily a run-stuffer.
Las Vegas’ fourth-round cornerback selection Jermod McCoy displayed encouraging coverage skills in the Raiders’ 22-20 victory, moving fluidly in man coverage assignments. McCoy had fallen to the fourth round after knee injury concerns, including a torn ACL suffered in January of 2025, despite initial first-round projections.
Geno Smith’s return to the New York Jets produced an encouraging opening drive against Pittsburgh, with the 35-year-old completing all seven pass attempts for 65 yards and a 13-yard touchdown reception by tight end Jelani Woods. The veteran’s second stint with the organization provided some optimism after a difficult 2025 season that included leading the NFL in both sacks taken (55) and interceptions thrown (17).
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