Fansided
Fansided

NFL Backups A Preseason Away From Starting In 2016

ByErik Lambert|

Jul 31, 2015; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) walks behind quarterback Peyton Manning (18) during training camp activities at the UCHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The 2015 preseason is going to be a big one for a lot of players, most of them who sit as backups on their teams.  Either they hope to keep their jobs or use a good showing to springboard them into contention for a starting spot, either with their current teams or others.

Who are some names fans need to watch for this month?

Brock Osweiler

One way or another, the time is coming to really see whether former 2nd round pick Brock Osweiler has what it takes to be a starter in the NFL.  He’s patiently sat behind Peyton Manning for three years and is a free agent next spring.  One can bet he views the coming preseason as his audition, either to the Broncos or to the rest of the league.  He’s big, boasts a strong arm and came out of college with potential for running a pro-style offense.

Learning from Manning could only have helped his cause.

A.J. McCarron

This is a name some have circled over the past few months.  A.J. McCarron didn’t get to do much last year due to shoulder problems but all sign indicate the Cincinnati Bengals backup is healthy now.  A two-time national champion at Alabama, the coaches are in love with his work ethic and leadership intangibles.

He knows exactly how to run the type of offense the Bengals do with defense and power running, just like he did for the Crimson Tide.  If he can put up a nice showing in the preseason, it will put load of pressure on incumbent starter Andy Dalton.  On top of that, it might also increase possible trade options as well.

Khiry Robinson

Mark Ingram established himself as the unquestioned starter last season with his Pro Bowl nod.  The offense for the New Orleans Saints figures to gear around him moving forward.  Couple that with the arrival of C.J. Spiller, it makes for a crowded backfield along with capable reserve Khiry Robinson.

In his limited opportunities the past two seasons, the former undrafted free agent has shown plenty of promise.  In 20 games he has 586 rushing yards on 130 attempts, good for a healthy 4.5 yards per carry.  He also showed good hands for receiving and stands 6’0″ tall, which is good size for a running back.

He may not be able to gain a serious niche in the Saints attack now, but if he plays the preseason right another team will come calling when he’s a free agent next year.

Terrelle Pryor

Don’t laugh.  This is serious.  The Cleveland Browns didn’t sign Terrelle Pryor out of pity.  They believe the former quarterback has serious potential as a wide receiver, and he does.  He’s 6’5″ with plenty of beef and enough speed to threaten over the top.

What he needs to show is an understanding of running routes and good hands for making the catch.  How long that takes to learn depends on him.  If he can show progress this month, then he’ll set himself up for a legitimate shot next year.  After all, he’s only working a one-year deal anyway.

Vance McDonald

The Vernon Davis that became legendary during the San Francisco 49ers rise to prominence back in 2011 has lost some of his luster over the past season.  The 245 yards receiving was the lowest of his career and at age 31 his best days appear behind him.  Couple that with an expiring contract, and the way appears open for Vance McDonald to finally make his move.

The former 2nd round pick has toiled in obscurity on the sideline for two years behind Davis, never really finding playing time outside of special teams.  This despite expectations he would become another valuable weapon in the passing game.  If it wasn’t going to happen by design, then maybe by default is good too.  This provided McDonald shows he has anything to offer in the preseason.

Next: NFL Power Rankings: The Greatest Plays Of All-Time

More from NFL Mocks

Home/NFL News