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4 Down Territory: NFL Preseason Week 1 biggest notes and observations

By Michael Thompson

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 13: Quarterback Trey Lance #5 of the San Francisco 49ers throws under pressure from defensive tackle Byron Young #93 of the Las Vegas Raiders in the second quarter of a preseason game at Allegiant Stadium on August 13, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the 49ers 34-7. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 13: Quarterback Trey Lance #5 of the San Francisco 49ers throws under pressure from defensive tackle Byron Young #93 of the Las Vegas Raiders in the second quarter of a preseason game at Allegiant Stadium on August 13, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the 49ers 34-7. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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NFL Preseason
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 21: Alex Collins #41 of the Seattle Seahawks avoids a tackle by Chandler Jones #55 of the Arizona Cardinals during the third quarter at Lumen Field on November 21, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

Going for 2

Saints sitting pretty

Arguably the most impressive team during week 1 of the preseason was the New Orleans Saints. Both Derek Carr and Jameis Winston looked impressive, both leading their teams on touchdown drives against the defending Super Bowl champs.

Derek Carr appears to be the face of the franchise for at least a few years. When Jameis Winston was healthy and in a good environment, he played like a top-15 QB. With rookie draft pick Jake Haener looking young but serviceable, and heck, even Taysom Hill is still hanging around. It puts the Saints in an enviable position.

If a team wants to take a chance on Winston, and an injury forces their hand, the Saints could get a pretty decent draft pick for his services. As a team that appears to be the favorites in the NFC South and maybe even a sneaky NFL playoff contender, but also has numerous holes, this puts NOLA in a strong win/win position.

Rest in Peace to Alex Collins

I wanted to take a moment to honor Alex Collins, who tragically passed away on Monday at just 28 years old. Collins, a former Arkansas Razorback star, made his mark on the league as a powerful back that could step in and take over when needed.

Collins was a fan favorite in Baltimore and Seattle. In 2017, Collins was the starting running back for the Ravens, rushing for 973 yards and 6 touchdowns. As good of a running back as he was,

by all accounts he was an even better human being. He will be missed by the players and the fans of the NFL and beyond.

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