5 players to watch in Sunday's preseason games

Sunday's slate of games will be the last chance to watch the majority of starters around the league until the regular season kicks off Sept. 8.

Only three games are scheduled, but all six teams - the Arizona Cardinals, Houston Texans, San Diego Chargers, Minnesota Vikings, Cincinnati Bengals, and Jacksonville Jaguars - have legitimate playoff aspirations.

Here are five players to watch:

Jadeveon Clowney, Texans

After two seasons of injuries and subpar play, it appears Clowney is set to break out in 2016. The former No. 1 overall pick has been a consistently destructive force during the preseason, even if it hasn't shown up in the stat line. Given Clowney's injury history, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the pass-rusher's snaps limited on Sunday, but he should still have ample opportunities to display his growth.

Marqise Lee, Jaguars

The Jaguars may boast the league's best receiver duo in Allen Robinson and Allen Hurns, but the club still needs a third wideout to emerge in 2016. After struggling through injuries to open training camp, Lee has exceeded expectations. The former second-round pick has impressed during the first two preseason games, catching five balls for 57 yards. Lee should get an extended stint against the Bengals.

Tyrann Mathieu, Cardinals

Mathieu is set to see his first action since tearing his ACL last December. While the All-Pro defensive back is only expected to see around 10 snaps in his debut against the Texans, they will be vital in setting expectations for his involvement in the regular season's opening weeks. Mathieu is one of the Cardinals' most indispensable players, and the club won't rush him back if he appears less than 100 percent, especially considering his aggressive style of play.

Cordarrelle Patterson, Vikings

Patterson, a former first-round pick, is on the Vikings' roster bubble. The wideout was an afterthought on offense in 2015, and Sunday could be his last chance to make a statement before final cuts. Patterson was unable to do so during the second preseason contest, catching just two passes for 17 yards, but he's been making progress in camp. Patterson's best bet to make the team is showcasing his worth as a returner, a role he's previously excelled in.

Hunter Henry, Chargers

Henry is likely to open the season as the backup to veteran tight end Antonio Gates, but the rookie will still see significant action in two-tight end sets. The 2016 second-round pick highlighted the dynamic receiving talents he'll bring to the Chargers during the first preseason game, snagging three passes for 43 yards. Henry should use the dress rehearsal against the Vikings to further solidify his role in the passing attack.