2017 NFL Preseason: 5 QBs Who Need a Good Week 2

The quarterback situation around the league remains fluid going into the second week of the 2017 NFL preseason with several jobs up for grabs.

That is why it’s often a misconception that preseason games mean nothing. Sure the outcomes don’t matter but to the players these games can be hugely valuable (or damaging) to their hopes of playing that season. One bad performance can alter the entire plan of a franchise. That’s how impactful the quarterback position is and will remain.

The following are five names that fans should be watching very carefully this weekend. All have major stakes in their upcoming games that could make or break their chances to start in 2017.

Mike Glennon (Chicago Bears)

The scenario couldn’t be setting up much worse for Glennon. He already had a dud of an opener, going 2-for-8 with a pick-six and 0.0 quarterback rating. That was at home in Chicago. Now he has to go into Arizona against one of the best pass defenses in the NFL a year ago? It’s hard to imagine his night going much better than last week. If so, it will open the door nice and wide for #2 overall pick Mitch Trubisky to seize the moment and claim the starting job.

Tom Savage (Houston Texans)

Similar situation as Glennon, though not as dire. Tom Savage has the respect of his teammates whom many think should be given the opportunity to start. He’s the most experienced on the roster and knows the system best. Another advantage over Glennon. However, the threat of Deshaun Watson and his star power is looming large. Savage can’t afford any major setbacks or the 1st round pick will likely make him pay for it.

Paxton Lynch (Denver Broncos)

In a reverse situation, this former 1st rounder badly needs a good game. It feels like Paxton Lynch has lost the faith of the Broncos coaches and top brass. His lack of progression from last year is definitely concerning. Though still immensely talented his inability to read the field quickly is a constant issue. Meanwhile Trevor Siemian continues to look like the most capable on the roster. Lynch has to bring it against San Francisco or risk his window closing.

Brock Osweiler (Cleveland Browns)

Sensing a theme yet? The allure of the big quarterbacks is wearing off in a hurry. Brock Osweiler should count his lucky stars he’s even in the conversation at Cleveland after his massive flop in Houston. The way things stand he’s in position to be the starter for the Browns, but DeShone Kizer isn’t making that easy. The rookie is progressing well, which means Osweiler can’t afford a dud against the Giants if he wants to maintain that slim lead.

Andy Dalton (Cincinnati Bengals)

This one may come as a bit of a surprise and it has to do with the curious decisions made by the Bengals regarding A.J. McCarron, their backup. Word is they had a chance to deal him this offseason for a high draft choice and turned it down. This signaled that their faith in Andy Dalton isn’t as strong as it once was. His clunker of an opening game reinforces that concern. Rest assured there is a growing chance McCarron could steal that job.

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