NFL Stock Watch: Trey Lance Shines, While Deshaun Watson Struggles

Friday Games (Aug. 12)

Arizona Cardinals vs. Cincinnati Bengals

•Riser: K Evan McPherson (CIN)

Nothing new here. Evan McPherson, a catalyst for the Bengals’ Super Bowl run in 2021, continued to show why he’s becoming the best kicker in the league. Very few starters appeared in this game on either side, but McPherson flexed his length strength and accuracy by connecting on 58 and 56 yard field goals. How much more can he rise? We’ll see in 2022.

•Risers: EDGE Jesse Luketa (ARZ) & DB Dax Hill (CIN)

Two rookies that made their presence felt on Friday were Jesse Luketa and Dax Hill. Luketa has been a star of Cardinals’ training camp, and his ability to get off the edge showed in his first NFL appearance. Even though he didn’t tally a sack or TFL, the pressure was prevalent, especially on running plays. Dax Hill from the Bengals played well too in limited snaps. He recorded a pass defended and a tackle during his time on the field. Both guys look like they’ll be key players for their respective teams in 2022.

New York Jets vs. Philadelphia Eagles

•Faller: QB Zach Wilson (NYJ)

Wilson being listed as a faller might be unfair considering it is primarily due to an injury that he suffered during the game. The second-year quarterback went down with a non-contact knee injury, leading many to believe that he tore an ACL. Thankfully, early reports say that the Jets might have avoided the worst-case scenario. Still, Wilson is a young player and needs as much experience as possible to improve. He cannot do that from the sideline.

•Riser: DT Jordan Davis (PHI)

“Can Jordan Davis stay in shape enough to terrorize the NFL?” is a question that can officially be put to bed. Davis has been a force, both in training camp and during his NFL debut against the Jets. The former Georgia Bulldog generates pressure from the interior at a consistent rate, which will undoubtedly lead to sacks and tackles for loss, not only for himself but his teammates too. The Eagles are hoping to make a second straight playoff appearance, and the defense is ready to play a major role in doing so.

•Riser: QB Jalen Hurts (PHI)

The other side of the ball should not be forgotten, though. Jalen Hurts only played the first drive, but during that drive he completed all six of his passes for 80 yards, culminating in a 22-yard touchdown to Dallas Goedert. The team traded for wide receiver AJ Brown this off-season, and will be looking to Jalen Hurts to elevate the unit even higher than he did in 2021. Expect Philadelphia to be a major threat in the NFC this season.

Cleveland Browns vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

•Faller: QB Deshaun Watson (CLE)

First, let’s preface this by saying, this was the first time Deshaun Watson has been behind center in over 18 months. With that knowledge, it came as no surprise to see how rusty he was. Still, it is worth noting because there’s a real chance that Watson misses another full season. Add in the fact that the Jacksonville crowd let him have it, and it is easy to see why there’s valid concern around Watson and his current standing in the NFL. The talent is there, but quarterback is such a mental battle. We’ll see how this goes.

NFL Stock Watch: Biggest Risers, Fallers Thus Far

•Riser: QB Trevor Lawrence (JAX)

On the flip side, the “other” former Clemson quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, looked like a brand new man on Friday. Free from the shackles known as Urban Meyer, Lawrence looked the way everyone expected him to look when he entered the league. With Doug Pederson now at the helm, this was just a peek at what the future has in store for the talented signal-caller in Jacksonville. They finally got themselves a good coaching/quarterback duo in Duval.

•Riser: RB Jerome Ford (CLE)

Jerome Ford produced 102 total yards on 14 touches, adding himself to the strong stable of running backs in Cleveland. This is an important position to keep track of, as Kareem Hunt recently requested a trade. The Browns have been reluctant to honor his trade request, but if Ford continues this level of play, it could help convince the franchise to move Hunt in order to replenish their depleted draft assets.