Jets vs. Redskins: Top 3 players to watch in preseason Week 2 game

New York Jets preseason football is back as Gang Green gets ready to take on the Washington Redskins down in D.C. in this Week 2 matchup. Here are the top three players you should watch in tonight’s game.

Yes, you can get rid of your haunting anticipation, because it is New York Jets gameday. Excitement and energy are two words that can be used to describe the feeling around this team after the preseason-opening win against the Atlanta Falcons.

It seems as though almost everyone is aware of what happened in the victory against the Falcons. If not, here is a very condensed, quick recap.

The defense had a complete game shutout, Sam Darnold and Teddy Bridgewater looked great and other new or unknown faces played well. Those new and unknown faces were mainly two rookies in Nathan Shepherd and Trenton Cannon, and second-year man Derrick Jones.

So, let’s dive in and see who the three players we all should keep an eye on during tonight’s game against the Redskins.

3. Running Back Trenton Cannon

Cannon had an interesting game in the Jets preseason opener. He was very effective in the rushing attack but had difficulties on special teams.

The rookie ran for 40 yards on 11 carries and played a solid role in the passing game. However, his issues fielding punts is something that he needs to clean up in order for the Jets coaching staff to fully use him.

Isaiah Crowell‘s injury in the first game has opened the door for Cannon to show the team what he can bring to the table. We have heard, and to a limited extent seen his game-breaking speed. But, he needs to clean it up in the return game if he wants to maximize his potential.

Cannon will likely get more reps out of the backfield tonight, so keep an eye on him as he will try and build off last week’s game. Also, make sure to watch and see if he has worked on removing some of his bad habits in the returning game.

Next: 2. Tight End Jordan Leggett

2. Tight End Jordan Leggett

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Jordan Leggett was drafted in the fifth-round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Many people thought this may have been a steal, as he played very well for the 2016 National Champion Clemson Tigers.

Unfortunately, Leggett sustained an injury early in the season last year that landed him on the Injured Reserve list. The injury sidelined him for the rest of the year.

Well, the tight end is back and ready to go after an impressive week of practice. His ability to come back healthy and be productive gives the Jets yet another option at tight end.

Don’t necessarily look for a lot of big plays from Leggett tonight. Rather, look at the way he moves and how healthy he looks. Of course, if he goes off for a big night that is also a plus.

Next: 1. Quarterback Sam Darnold

1. Quarterback Sam Darnold

Surprise! Coming in at No. 1 is Sam Darnold. All eyes will be glued to see what No. 14 has in store in preseason game two of his career.

Darnold couldn’t have had a better debut. He completed a high percentage of his passes and looked confident under center for Gang Green.

The rookie from USC made the correct reads, didn’t turn the ball over and showed us all his athleticism. So, what should you be looking for from him tonight? The exact same thing.

Yes, Darnold will probably look human tonight and possibly make a mistake, but that’s absolutely fine. Pay attention to his confidence and technique, because those two will lead to results.

Also, watch to see if he forces some plays or tries to be too perfect after last week’s game. Sometimes rookies will bite off more than they can chew after a stellar game.