NFL Preseason Week 3 IDP Recap

With the season fast approaching, let’s take a look at how the last games of preseason went as training camp ends and the NFL season begins!

Week 3 of the NFL Preseason saw more playing time for the starters on each team, but of course they might not play against the full defense or all the offense players. You can still start to get some idea of who will be in what role and who is winning, be sure to join to get the in season article that will go over the real fantasy implications each week!

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Indianapolis Colts 27 @ Cincinnati Bengals 14

The Indianapolis Colts defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 27-14, showcasing strong defensive performances on both sides. The Colts’ defense capitalized on turnovers and held the Bengals’ offense in check, while the Bengals’ defense fought hard but couldn’t stop the Colts’ late-game push.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Devin Harper (Cincinnati Bengals): Harper led the Bengals’ defense with 11 total tackles, 6 of them solo. His presence was felt across the field as he disrupted the Colts’ offense and made key stops.
• Maema Njongmeta (Cincinnati Bengals): Njongmeta also recorded 11 tackles, including 4 solo. Although he didn’t register any sacks or tackles for loss, his consistent tackling helped keep the Colts’ running game under control.
• Jordan Battle (Cincinnati Bengals): Battle was a standout in the secondary, making 6 total tackles and securing an interception returned for a touchdown, which briefly tied the game.

Injuries and Impact

• S. Olubi (Indianapolis Colts): Olubi was injured during a punt return but returned to the game later. Before his injury, he contributed to special teams but did not record any defensive stats.
• No Significant Injuries on the Bengals: The Bengals did not report any significant injuries that impacted their defensive performance during the game.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Chicago Bears 34 @ Kansas City Chiefs 21

In a 34-21 victory, the Chicago Bears’ defense outperformed the Kansas City Chiefs, capitalizing on key turnovers and limiting the Chiefs’ offensive output. The Bears maintained control throughout the game, with several defensive players stepping up to secure the win.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Jonathan Owens (Chicago Bears): Owens led the Bears’ defense with 8 total tackles, including 5 solo. His consistent presence in the secondary helped stifle the Chiefs’ passing game.
• Tarvarius Moore (Chicago Bears): Moore recorded 6 tackles, 3 of which were solo, and contributed a tackle for loss, making him a key player in the Bears’ run defense.
• Jaylen Watson (Kansas City Chiefs): Watson was a standout for the Chiefs, registering 7 total tackles, including 5 solo, and a pass deflection, although his efforts were not enough to turn the tide for Kansas City.

Injuries and Impact

• L. Borom (Chicago Bears): Borom was injured early in the game but his injury did not significantly impact the Bears’ defensive performance. No defensive stats were recorded post-injury.
• Nic Jones (Kansas City Chiefs): Jones returned after an injury sustained during the game and finished with 3 total tackles. His return bolstered the Chiefs’ secondary, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Bears’ offensive drives.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Jacksonville Jaguars 31 @ Atlanta Falcons 0

The Jacksonville Jaguars dominated the Atlanta Falcons in a 31-0 victory, with their defense playing a role in shutting down Atlanta’s offense. The Jaguars’ defensive unit showcased excellent tackling and maintained pressure on the Falcons throughout the game. Meanwhile, the Falcons’ defense struggled to contain Jacksonville’s offense, leading to multiple scoring drives.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Donavan Mutin (Atlanta Falcons): Mutin was a standout on the Falcons’ defense, recording 18 total tackles, including 13 solo. His efforts in stopping the run were evident, but it wasn’t enough to slow down the Jaguars.
• Natrone Brooks (Atlanta Falcons): Brooks contributed 6 solo tackles and was heavily involved in pass coverage, making crucial stops when needed.
• Chad Muma (Jacksonville Jaguars): Muma was a key player for the Jaguars, registering 3 solo tackles and constantly applying pressure on the Falcons’ offense.

Injuries and Impact

• Tre Tarpley III (Atlanta Falcons): Tarpley managed to record 4 tackles, including 3 solo, and added a pass deflection. Despite a solid performance, there were no significant injuries reported that impacted his play.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Miami Dolphins 14 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a 24-14 victory over the Miami Dolphins, showcasing strong offensive drives and a resilient defense that held off the Dolphins’ late-game efforts. The Buccaneers’ defense, led by key players who made crucial stops and a game-sealing interception, played a significant role in maintaining their lead. On the other hand, the Dolphins’ defense struggled to contain Tampa Bay’s offense, despite some standout individual performances.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Channing Tindall (Miami Dolphins): Tindall was the leading tackler for the Dolphins with 12 total tackles, including 6 solo. His presence was felt throughout the game, as he consistently disrupted Tampa Bay’s offensive plays.
• Antonio Grier Jr. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Grier was a standout for the Buccaneers, recording 7 total tackles with 4 solo tackles. His performance was highlighted by a pass deflection and a crucial interception that helped Tampa Bay secure the win.
• Vi Jones (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Jones was instrumental in stopping Miami’s run game, contributing 5 solo tackles and a tackle for loss.

Injuries and Impact

• Mohamed Kamara (Miami Dolphins): Kamara had a limited impact with only 1 tackle before he was injured during the game. His absence affected the Dolphins’ ability to pressure the Buccaneers’ quarterback.
• Wyatt Ray (Miami Dolphins): Ray recorded 2 total tackles and 1 solo tackle before being injured later in the game. His injury occurred during a critical defensive play, impacting Miami’s defensive depth.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

San Francisco 49ers 24 @ Las Vegas Raiders 24

The San Francisco 49ers and the Las Vegas Raiders battled to a 24-24 tie, with both defenses showcasing impressive performances. The 49ers’ defense made critical plays, including a key interception that prevented a potential game-winning touchdown. The Raiders’ defense, led by several top tacklers, was resilient, holding the 49ers’ offense in check during crucial moments of the game.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Amari Gainer (Las Vegas Raiders): Gainer led the Raiders with 13 total tackles, including 10 solo tackles and 2 tackles for loss. His presence was crucial in slowing down the 49ers’ running game.
• Ja’Quan Sheppard (Las Vegas Raiders): Sheppard was another standout for the Raiders, recording 9 total tackles with 7 solo. He was involved in several key plays, providing solid coverage and run support.
• Tracy Walker III (San Francisco 49ers): Walker was the top tackler for the 49ers, contributing 5 total tackles, 4 of which were solo. He played a significant role in limiting the Raiders’ offensive gains.

Injuries and Impact

• Yetur Gross-Matos (San Francisco 49ers): Gross-Matos was injured during the first quarter after recording 1 tackle. His absence was felt as the 49ers’ pass rush slightly diminished following his departure.
• Leonard Floyd (San Francisco 49ers): Floyd also sustained an injury during the game after making 1 tackle. His injury affected the 49ers’ ability to generate consistent pressure on the Raiders’ quarterback.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Carolina Panthers 31 @ Buffalo Bills 26

The Carolina Panthers edged out the Buffalo Bills with a 31-26 victory. Both teams showcased strong defensive performances, with several players making key tackles and stops. The game was marked by efficient offensive drives and crucial defensive plays that kept the score close throughout.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Te’Cory Couch (Buffalo Bills): Couch led the Bills with 10 total tackles, 8 of which were solo, and also recorded a sack. His efforts were pivotal in keeping the Panthers’ offense under pressure.
• Joe Andreessen (Buffalo Bills): Andreessen contributed 8 tackles, 2 solo, playing a significant role in the Bills’ defensive front.
• Rudy Ford (Carolina Panthers): Ford was the Panthers’ top tackler, recording 6 total tackles with 4 solo, helping to control the Bills’ running game.

Injuries and Impact

• Dee Delaney (Buffalo Bills): Delaney was injured during the fourth quarter after recording 3 tackles. His absence was felt in the Bills’ secondary as they struggled to contain the Panthers’ passing game in the latter stages of the match.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Pittsburgh Steelers 17 @ Detroit Lions 24

The Detroit Lions managed to edge out the Pittsburgh Steelers with a final score of 24-17. The game was characterized by strong defensive performances from both teams, with several standout players making key tackles and forcing turnovers. The Steelers’ early lead was eventually overturned by the Lions through consistent defensive pressure and timely offensive plays.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Ty Summers (Detroit Lions): Summers led the Lions’ defense with 9 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles. He was also credited with 1.5 sacks and 2 tackles for loss, playing a pivotal role in disrupting the Steelers’ offensive rhythm.
• Zyon Gilbert (Pittsburgh Steelers): Gilbert was the Steelers’ top tackler, recording 8 total tackles, 5 of which were solo, along with 1 tackle for loss. His efforts were instrumental in containing the Lions’ ground game.
• Nick Herbig (Pittsburgh Steelers): Herbig had a significant impact with 3 tackles, including 3 solo tackles, and 2 sacks. He also forced a fumble, which was recovered by the Steelers, showcasing his ability to pressure the quarterback.

Injuries and Impact

• Bennie Martin (Detroit Lions): Martin was injured during the third quarter after contributing with 2 tackles. His absence was felt as the Lions had to adjust their defensive lineup, but they managed to hold the Steelers to only 3 points in the second half.
• Ryan Watts (Pittsburgh Steelers): Watts sustained an injury in the fourth quarter after recording 3 tackles. His injury impacted the Steelers’ ability to contain the Lions’ offense late in the game, contributing to the Lions’ final scoring drive.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Baltimore Ravens 7 @ Green Bay Packers 30

The Green Bay Packers secured a commanding 30-7 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. The Packers’ defense was relentless, forcing turnovers and stifling the Ravens’ offense throughout the game. Key defensive plays included multiple tackles for loss, interceptions, and a fumble recovery for a touchdown, showcasing the Packers’ defensive prowess. Despite some bright spots for the Ravens, they were unable to overcome the consistent pressure from the Packers’ defense.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Beau Brade (Baltimore Ravens): Brade led the Ravens’ defense with 8 total tackles, 7 of which were solo. His efforts included one tackle for loss, providing critical stops for Baltimore.
• Kristian Welch (Green Bay Packers): Welch was a standout for the Packers, recording 6 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles. He also had 2 pass deflections, contributing to the Packers’ strong pass defense.
• Trenton Simpson (Baltimore Ravens): Simpson contributed 6 tackles and 1 pass deflection, playing a key role in containing the Packers’ rushing attack.

Injuries and Impact

• Nick Samac (Baltimore Ravens): Samac was injured during the second quarter. He had contributed to the offensive line before his exit.
• Mitch Pratt (Green Bay Packers): Pratt was briefly injured during the third quarter but returned to the game shortly after. He was instrumental in managing the Packers’ offense and threw a touchdown pass after returning from injury.
• Yvandy Rigby (Baltimore Ravens): Rigby sustained an injury during the third quarter but later returned to the game. He had recorded 4 tackles, including 3 solo, before his injury.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Minnesota Vikings 26 @ Philadelphia Eagles 3

In a decisive 26-3 victory for the Minnesota Vikings over the Philadelphia Eagles, the Vikings’ defense played a pivotal role. The Vikings’ defense dominated the game, forcing turnovers and limiting the Eagles’ offense to just three points. On the other side, the Eagles’ defense had moments of brilliance but couldn’t overcome the Vikings’ relentless pressure.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Tristin McCollum (Philadelphia Eagles): McCollum led the Eagles’ defense with 9 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles. His performance included 1 pass deflection, showcasing his ability to disrupt the Vikings’ passing game.
• Dallas Gant (Minnesota Vikings): Gant was a standout for the Vikings with 8 total tackles, 7 of which were solo. His consistent tackling was crucial in shutting down the Eagles’ running game.
• Oren Burks (Philadelphia Eagles): Burks recorded 7 tackles, 5 solo, along with 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss. His efforts were key in applying pressure on the Vikings’ quarterback.

Injuries and Impact

• Jahmar Harris (Philadelphia Eagles): Harris was injured during the kickoff return in the first quarter. Prior to his injury, he contributed to the Eagles’ special teams.
• Josh Jobe (Philadelphia Eagles): Jobe continued to play despite being targeted multiple times, finishing with 3 solo tackles.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Los Angeles Rams 15 @ Houston Texans 17

The Houston Texans edged out the Los Angeles Rams with a 17-15 victory. The game featured strong defensive performances from both teams, with key plays and critical stops highlighting the match. Both teams’ defenses played a pivotal role in keeping the game within reach, but the Texans’ defense ultimately secured the win.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Myles Bryant (Houston Texans): Bryant led the Texans with 9 total tackles, including 7 solo tackles. His contribution was vital in containing the Rams’ offense, particularly in stopping runs up the middle.
• Olakunle Fatukasi (Los Angeles Rams): Fatukasi was a standout for the Rams, recording 8 total tackles with 4 solo. Although the Rams fell short, Fatukasi’s consistent presence on the field was a key factor in their defensive efforts.
• Elias Neal (Los Angeles Rams): Neal added 7 total tackles, 5 of them solo, and defended one pass, making him a critical part of the Rams’ secondary defense.

Injuries and Impact

• Tre Tomlinson (Los Angeles Rams): Tomlinson was involved in a significant play but was injured during the first half. Despite this, he returned to the game in the third quarter, finishing with 4 total tackles and 1 tackle for loss.
• Lonnie Johnson Jr. (Houston Texans): Johnson suffered an injury during the third quarter but returned to finish the game, contributing 5 total tackles, including 3 solo.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Los Angeles Chargers 26 @ Dallas Cowboys 19

The Los Angeles Chargers secured a 26-19 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The game was marked by strong defensive performances on both sides, with key interceptions and impactful tackles shaping the outcome. Both teams’ defenses were put to the test, with the Chargers’ defense ultimately making the critical plays to secure the win.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Tony Jefferson (Los Angeles Chargers): Jefferson led the Chargers’ defense with an outstanding 14 total tackles, including 11 solo tackles. He also contributed a sack, a tackle for loss (TFL), and two passes defended, making him the defensive star of the game.
• Emany Johnson (Dallas Cowboys): Johnson was a key player for the Cowboys, recording 5 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles, and a TFL. His efforts were crucial in keeping the Chargers’ offense from breaking out further.
• Julius Wood (Dallas Cowboys): Wood added 4 total tackles and 1 pass defended, alongside an interception that he returned for 8 yards, showcasing his ability to make plays in critical moments.

Injuries and Impact

• T’McLellan (Los Angeles Chargers): McLellan was injured during a play in the third quarter. Despite the setback, he did not return to the game, impacting the Chargers’ defensive depth.
• T.Jefferson (Dallas Cowboys): Jefferson was instrumental in the Cowboys’ defense before suffering an injury in the fourth quarter. Prior to his exit, he had recorded 4 tackles and a critical interception that he returned for 22 yards.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

New York Giants 6 @ New York Jets 10

The New York Jets edged out the New York Giants with a 10-6 victory. The game was dominated by strong defensive plays, with both teams showcasing their defensive depth and ability to disrupt the opposing offense. The Jets’ defense, led by standout performances from Takkarist McKinley and Braiden McGregor, managed to stifle the Giants’ offense, securing the win despite a late push by the Giants.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• K.J. Cloyd (New York Giants): Cloyd led the Giants’ defense with 16 total tackles, including 8 solo tackles and 2 tackles for loss (TFL). His relentless pursuit of the ball carrier was a key factor in limiting the Jets’ offensive gains.
• Takkarist McKinley (New York Jets): McKinley was a force on the Jets’ defense, recording 4 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles, and contributing 2.5 sacks. His ability to pressure the quarterback played a crucial role in the Jets’ victory.
• Darrian Beavers (New York Giants): Beavers made significant contributions with 6 total tackles and 1 tackle for loss, showcasing his effectiveness in stopping the run and providing solid coverage.

Injuries and Impact

• T.Horne (New York Giants): Horne suffered an injury early in the game, which impacted the Giants’ defensive line depth. His absence was felt as the game progressed, particularly in the run defense.
• M.Mitchell (New York Jets): Mitchell was injured after a sack on the Jets’ side, which momentarily weakened their defensive line. However, the Jets managed to maintain their defensive pressure even in his absence.
• D.Holmes (New York Giants): Holmes, one of the Giants’ key defensive backs, was injured during the fourth quarter. Before his injury, Holmes had recorded 2 tackles and provided solid pass coverage.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Cleveland Browns 33 @ Seattle Seahawks 37

The Seattle Seahawks edged out the Cleveland Browns with a 37-33 victory. The game was highlighted by strong defensive performances from both teams, with several key players stepping up to make critical plays. Despite a late push by the Browns, the Seahawks managed to hold on to their lead, thanks to solid defensive contributions and timely stops.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Patrick O’Connell (Seattle Seahawks): O’Connell was the standout on defense for the Seahawks, recording 9 total tackles, including 8 solo tackles and 1 pass deflection. His consistent presence on the field helped stifle the Browns’ offensive drives.
• Chris Edmonds (Cleveland Browns): Edmonds led the Browns’ defense with 6 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss. His efforts were crucial in keeping the Seahawks’ offense in check.
• Nehemiah Pritchett (Seattle Seahawks): Pritchett made significant contributions with 6 total tackles, 5 of which were solo, and 1 tackle for loss. His ability to read the plays and react quickly helped limit the Browns’ gains.

Injuries and Impact

• Uchenna Nwosu (Seattle Seahawks): Nwosu was injured early in the game after a roughing the passer penalty. His absence was felt on the Seahawks’ defensive line, as they had to adjust without one of their key pass rushers.
• D’Onta Foreman (Cleveland Browns): Foreman sustained an injury after a 3-yard run, which impacted the Browns’ rushing attack. Before his injury, he contributed 3 yards on 1 carry.
• Justin Hardee Sr. (Cleveland Browns): Hardee was injured while making a tackle in the third quarter. He had recorded 3 solo tackles prior to the injury, contributing to the Browns’ special teams and defensive efforts.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Tennessee Titans 30 @ New Orleans Saints 27

The Tennessee Titans narrowly defeated the New Orleans Saints with a final score of 30-27 in a closely contested game. Both teams displayed strong defensive performances, with key stops and turnovers shaping the outcome. Despite a valiant effort by the Saints in the fourth quarter, the Titans managed to secure the victory with a late touchdown.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Anfernee Orji (New Orleans Saints): Orji led the Saints’ defense with 9 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles. His consistent play was crucial in keeping the Titans’ offense from breaking away.
• Joejuan Williams (New Orleans Saints): Williams contributed 8 total tackles, 5 of which were solo. His presence in the secondary helped limit the Titans’ passing game.
• James Williams (Tennessee Titans): Williams was a standout for the Titans, recording 6 total tackles, 5 of which were solo. He also had 1 pass deflection, making key plays in crucial moments.

Injuries and Impact

• Elijah Molden (Tennessee Titans): Molden was injured in the second quarter after making a tackle. Before his injury, he recorded 2 total tackles, both solo.
• Caleb Campbell (Tennessee Titans): Campbell was injured in the second quarter. He had no recorded tackles or significant stats prior to his injury.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

Arizona Cardinals 12 @ Denver Broncos 38

The Denver Broncos defeated the Arizona Cardinals with a commanding score of 38-12. The Broncos’ defense played a crucial role in their victory, effectively shutting down the Cardinals’ offense and capitalizing on turnovers. Despite a few moments of offensive success, the Cardinals were unable to maintain momentum, partly due to the Broncos’ relentless pressure and strong defensive stands.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Darren Hall (Arizona Cardinals): Hall led the Cardinals’ defense with 8 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles. His consistent performance was a bright spot in a tough game for Arizona.
• Tanner McCalister (Denver Broncos): McCalister was a key player for the Broncos, recording 7 total tackles, 6 of which were solo. His solid tackling helped Denver control the game defensively.
• Justin Strnad (Denver Broncos): Strnad contributed significantly with 6 total tackles, 4 solo, and a crucial sack. He also had a tackle for loss, showcasing his versatility on the field.

Injuries and Impact

• Damarri Mathis (Denver Broncos): Mathis was injured early in the game after making a tackle. He had 1 total tackle before leaving the game.
• Elijah Jones (Arizona Cardinals): Jones was injured during the second quarter after recording 3 total tackles. Despite his injury, he returned to the game later and finished with a strong performance.
• Divaad Wilson (Arizona Cardinals): Wilson sustained an injury in the second quarter after making 4 tackles. He returned later in the game but his injury limited his impact afterward.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

New England Patriots 10 @ Washington Commanders 20

The Washington Commanders edged out the New England Patriots with a score of 20-10. The game was a defensive battle, with both teams’ defenses making significant contributions. The Patriots struggled to move the ball consistently, while the Commanders capitalized on key defensive plays and turnovers to secure the win.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Christian Elliss (New England Patriots): Elliss led the Patriots’ defense with 11 total tackles, including 7 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss. His efforts were crucial in keeping the game competitive.
• Javontae Jean-Baptiste (Washington Commanders): Jean-Baptiste was a standout for the Commanders, recording 6 total tackles, 5 of which were solo. He also added a tackle for loss, showcasing his impact on the field.
• Sam Roberts (New England Patriots): Roberts contributed 8 total tackles, with 4 solo, and was a consistent presence in the defensive front for New England.

Injuries and Impact

• Joe Giles-Harris (New England Patriots): Giles-Harris was injured during the third quarter after recording 5 total tackles. Despite being questionable to return, he managed to re-enter the game and continue contributing to the defense.
• Christian Elliss (New England Patriots): Elliss was injured in the third quarter but returned to finish the game. He recorded 3 tackles, including 1 tackle for loss, before his injury.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

This summary and table provide a detailed overview of the defensive performances in the game, highlighting key players, their contributions, and the impact of injuries on the game.

Thanks for reading, you can follow me on X at @NateCheat and reach out to me in the IDP+ Discord for any questions!