Now we play the waiting game. With Week 4 of the 2014 NFL preseason in the books it is nearly time to look ahead at the season to come. But what better way to glimpse into the future than looking back to the past, at the preseason Week 4 top performers.
Devonta Freeman, Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
The successor-apparent to Steven Jackson does not want to wait much longer to step into the spotlight. Freeman carried the ball 12 times for 42 yards and a touchdown in Atlanta’s win over the Jaguars, making his desire to play known to fans and coaches alike. Currently ranked fourth on the team depth chart, Freeman will have no problem climbing the ranks of the Falcons’ rushers should he continue to play like this.
Jeremy Hill, Running Back, Cincinnati Bengals
Many were surprised when the Bengals selected LSU’s Hill in the second round. Hill expects to factor heavily into the Bengals’ plans for a rushing attack alongside Giovani Bernard. In the team’s preseason finale Hill rushed 20 times for 90 yards in an attempt to get the back into game shape. Hill has even outplayed Bernard thus far in the preseason capping it off with his performance in the team’s win against the Indianapolis Colts.
Aaron Dobson, Wide Receiver, New England Patriots
A vertical threat ready to burst onto the scene in his second season, Patriots’ wide out Aaron Dobson caught three receptions for 57 yards and a score in his team’s preseason finale against the Giants. Dobson will see time with the starting offense in 2014, and will fight Kenbrell Thompkins for time as the “X” receiver. Dobson’s athleticism was on display against the Giants, a factor that will help Dobson’s quest for playing time.
Darrius Heyward-Bey, Wide Receiver, Pittsburgh Steelers
Former first-round pick Darrius Heyward-Bey has had his share of struggles in his NFL career, and is now buried on a depth chart in Pittsburgh. In a contest devoid of offense, Heyward-Bey showed off his skills as a possession receiver with six catches for 44 yards. Nice to see some versatility out of the veteran who remains a home-run threat at the professional level.