NFL 2026 Preseason Week2: 3 Winners, 3 Losers And The Battles

BusinessSportsMoneyNFL 2026 Preseason Week2: 3 Winners, 3 Losers And The BattlesByGladys Louise Tyler,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. NFL Fantasy FootballFollow AuthorAug 24, 2026, 08:13am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryNFL Preseason Week 2 saw many starters sidelined, yet intense competition for roster spots. Geno Smith impressed for the Jets, going 7-for-7 with a touchdown, while Jaguars' Ameer Abdullah shined with 45 rushing yards against Carolina's starters. The New York Jets defense also celebrated, recording four sacks and two interceptions. On the downside, Raiders rookie Fernando Mendoza struggled with a pick-six, and the Chargers' offense looked anemic with only 17 points. Commanders' Jayden Daniels had a brief, unproductive outing. Key quarterback battles continued, with Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson vying for the Browns' starting job, and J.J. McCarthy competing with Carson Wentz for Vikings' QB2. The Colts' backup QB battle between Anthony Richardson and Riley Leonard also saw both struggle. Week 3 is now critical for final roster decisions.Show More MIAMI GARDENS, FL - AUGUST 22: New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (3)***New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter (3) prays before the preseason NFL game between the New York Giants and the Miami Dolphins on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, FL (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesPreseason Week 2 is in the locker room, and it held a few surprises. What wasn’t a surprise both the Jacksonville Jaguars and Los Angeles Rams did not suit up their starters. And to be fair to the shellacking the New Orleans Saints took at the hands of the Rams, the Saints didn't play their starters either. And yes, once again we use the caveat that it’s pr...