2022 NFL Preseason: 7 Players who made a name for themselves in Week 1
NFL preseason Week 1 star no. 6: Lance McCutcheon, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Preseason is made for players like Lance McCutcheon. The 6-3 200-pound small school prospect is looking to make an impression. There’s no better situation to be in than playing for the defending Super Bowl champs. There’s an opening for the Rams, who don’t use high draft picks on players. Si.com didn’t mince words when it came to their scouting report for McCutcheon.
"[Lance McCutcheon] lacks the speed and hands to make an NFL roster."
McCutcheon proved them wrong in his first game as a pro. The Montana State prospect caught five passes for 87-yards and two scores. His two touchdowns led all receivers from week one. If he continues to make plays he’d find himself on the Rams roster as a big-bodied downfield target. Given his leaping ability, he’s someone they can use in red zone packages.
No. 5: Desmond Ridder, QB, Atlanta Falcons
The Matt Ryan era is over, maybe it’s time to make room for Desmond Ridder. The Atlanta Falcons snatched the 6-3 211-pounds quarterback in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft despite some mocking him as a late day one pick, or early day two at least. With Marcus Mariota etched in as the starter, Ridder looks to be a project for now. However, the former Cincinnati Bearcats outplayed his draft position in week one of the 2022 NFL preseason. Ridder stepped onto the field and took command of a team looking for a franchise quarterback.
He showed off his arm strength by throwing lasers. The big-armed quarterback fit balls in tight windows, showing impressive velocity and power. His receivers let him down, there were at least five drops from his wideouts.
His football IQ was on full display. He appeared to have full command of the offense getting the ball to at least nine pass catchers. The end result saw Ridder finish 10/22 for 103-yards and two touchdowns. He also showed off the athleticism that made him one of college football’s most dynamic quarterbacks. Against the Lions, he ran the ball six times for 59-yards. Ridder showed poise and a great feel for the pocket in his first outing. Ridder showed some late-game heroics with a roll-out touchdown on a rope for the win.