As preseason comes to a close rosters are finalized as teams make their final preparations for the regular season; where each game is crucial to playoff aspirations. The AFC West has gone through a lot of change this offseason and will feature new players in 2016.
Here’s a look at the latest from each team and what’s in store for their preseason finale.
Green Bay Packers at Kansas City Chiefs, Thursday 8 PM EST
While Eric Berry has come to an agreement with the Chiefs, they got some bad news when it comes to Justin Houston.
Houston was placed on the physically unable to perform list and will miss the first six weeks of the NFL season. The pass rusher underwent knee surgery in February as he has been battling knee issues since last season. Houston is a huge part of KC’s defense and a top pass rusher in the league.
When it comes to Berry’s return, he has missed all of camp and the first three preseason games with the Chiefs due to contract issues. The corner finally signed his contract making him the franchise player on Monday. Head Coach Andy Reid said it is unlikely Berry will get any playing time during Thursday’s game, giving him zero in game action before regular season kicks off on September 11.
As this is the final preseason game, neither the Chiefs nor Packers are expected to play many, if any, starters. Alex Smith as well as Nick Foles have already been ruled out for the game, leaving this a battle of the backups.
Denver Broncos at Arizona Cardinals, Thursday 9:30PM EST
The Broncos announced their starting quarterback this week, and it was quite a surprise. After much anticipation during the offseason with questions of trade, the Broncos acquired Mark Sanchez who many believed would be named starter after preseason.
Well, it was indeed his job to lose and he did just that.
Trevor Siemian was named the starting quarterback after his preseason performance. Last week he was number one quarterback and went 10/17 with 122 yards, one touchdown and one interception against the LA Rams.
With Siemian named starter, this week belongs to Paxton Lynch, who will play the entire game.
Something to keep an eye on is the running back situation. Coach Kubiak stated he was unsure whether or not he would keep three or four running backs on his roster, and this game will have major implications weighing in on his decision. C.J. Anderson, Ronnie Hillman, and Kapri Bibbs have each made a strong case for some playing time.
San Francisco 49ers at San Diego Chargers, Thursday 10PM EST
Well, Joey Bosa finally agreed to terms with the Chargers and has since practiced with his team.
The rookie held out and missed 31 days due to a stall in contract negotiations. While Chargers players say there is no bad blood between them, Bosa will not play in the preseason finale and is questionable for the season opener according to head coach Mike McCoy as reported by ESPN. They liked what they’ve seen thus far from Bosa in practice and will try to get him out there for the season opener, but time will tell.
The Bolts also announced that Thursday they will honor and host 240 military members. After the Colin Kaepernick drama during the National Anthem, his response to the Chargers salute to service should make headlines come Friday.
One month after signing veteran receiver James Jones, the Chargers released him, which was quite a surprising move. This offense doesn’t have many targets and they will be down another one with the release of Jones.
Seattle Seahawks at Oakland Raiders, Thursday 10PM EST
It has been a disappointing preseason for the silver and black highlighted by some defensive struggles. The offense on the other hand looks to be shaping up nicely with Derek Carr and company.
Jack Del Rio has yet to say whether or not any of the starters will get playing time in their preseason finale. While it’s unlikely, if any starters do suit up, it won’t be for more than a series or two.
Matt McGloin and Connor Cook had been battling for the backup quarterback position, something McGloin has since secured. This game will feature a lot of McGloin as he will be under center majority of the time.
The rookie running backs have impressed thus far and it will be interesting to see how Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington close out the preseason with hopes of a lot of playing time in 2016.