Not many things make the preseason fun to watch, but intriguing NFL roster battles are chief among them. Which ones bear watching the most?
A good roster battle often pits two players at a high profile position against each other. Both have at least some cause to believe the job belongs to them and thus are encouraged by the coaching staff to prove it by playing and practicing well. The one question remaining is where the most intriguing and entertaining ones can be found. The Mocks crew was asked this very question and they had some diverse answers.
Matthew Holowiak:
"“I’m anxious to see the battle on the Dallas backfield. I know they drafted Zeke 4th overall but they also just brought in established starter Alfred Morris who could end up reviving his career behind such a solid offensive line, not to mention 1,000 yard rusher Darren McFadden as well.”"
Eric Robinson:
"“This is based on the team going forward with what they have but I’m intrigued by the potential QB battle for the Jets between Geno Smith and Christian Hackenberg. I honestly feel that if NYJ goes that route that Hack can beat out Geno. Also looking forward to what transpires with Devontae Booker and CJ Anderson in Denver. I know they gave Anderson his extension. Let’s keep in mind that Denver wasn’t quick to bring him back and they sort of dragged their feet with it. Yet, if team was really in love with Anderson, they would have easily resigned Hillman and use a later round pick on a developmental guy. Booker is capable of beating out Anderson. He’s not a 3rd down, scat back, change of pace guy and I believe he will take the job from Anderson.”"
Sam Beckenstein:
"“Dolphins backfield competition could be interesting. Jay Ajayi was a beast at Boise St. But didn’t see much action last season getting only 49 touches. Kenyan Drake could make it interesting because he has good speed and great pass catching ability out of the backfield. There’s also Daniel Thomas, Isaiah Pead, and Damien Williams so there are a few ways it could play out down there.”"
At the end of the day everything circles around the quarterback position whether it’s between two rivals on game day or two teammates vying for one starting job. Strangely there aren’t many of those heading into 2016, but there are a ton of fascinating backup battles with long-term starter outlooks. Chief among them is in New England where Jimmy Garoppolo finds his spot behind the aging Tom Brady very much in jeopardy from 3rd round pick Jacoby Brissett.
Whomever wins that battle could be looked at as Brady’s replacement. The loser may become trade bait.