The NFL released its 2018 preseason schedule Wednesday, and while it can often be difficult to muster much enthusiasm before the real games kick off, there are still a number of contests worth watching.
With a host of young players trying to make strong impressions, others returning from injuries, free-agent signings looking to impress with their new teams, and franchises looking to rebound from difficult 2017 campaigns, here are the key games to keep an eye on:
Ravens vs. Bears, Hall of Fame Game
After a long offseason, football will return with the annual Hall of Fame on Aug. 2. Quarterback Mitchell Trubisky may see limited action for Chicago, but it'll be compelling to see if he made any strides as he enters his much-anticipated sophomore campaign. Meanwhile, the Ravens will be chomping at the bit after narrowly missing the playoffs in 2017.
Browns vs. Giants, Week 1
We don't know who the top picks in April's draft will be, but barring any trades, the Browns (first and fourth overall) and Giants (second overall) will be eager to trot out their prized prospects with both teams looking to escape the NFL's basement. Cleveland accelerated its rebuild with a series of aggressive trades, while a new regime in New York is hoping to rebound from an unexpected nightmare in 2017.
49ers vs. Colts, Week 3
Jimmy "GQ" Garoppolo became one of the NFL's most interesting stories after the 49ers finally unleashed him, helping his new club close out the 2017 season on a five-game winning streak. While it's unlikely Jimmy Montana Garoppolo plays an entire half in this one, it'll be a chance to see one of the league's brightest young talents in action, setting the tone for what could be a resurgent 2018 season for the 49ers.
Meanwhile, Andrew Luck's delayed recovery from shoulder surgery has the league breathlessly awaiting his return to the field. While Luck hasn't thrown a football since undergoing a series of operations, it's possible he'll be back in full force against the 49ers. This game is all about the quarterbacks, and will hopefully pit one of the established faces of the NFL against a player who's quickly ascending into a household name.
Cowboys vs. Texans, Week 4
Deshaun Watson was quickly becoming everyone's favorite quarterback until he suffered a brutal non-contact knee injury in practice, ending his rookie campaign. It's possible Watson will be back in time for Week 4, and if he's at full strength, his excellent pocket presence and ability to take off for game-breaking runs will be a welcome development for football fans.
Ezekiel Elliott was mired in controversy for most of the 2017 season, but he's an elite talent and will enter his third campaign looking to win the second rushing title of his young career. Meanwhile, Dak Prescott will be trying to break out following his sophomore slump - though it could be argued that 22 touchdowns against 13 interceptions was still a passing grade. Everything is bigger in Texas, even the preseason games.
Jets vs. Eagles, Week 4
The defending Super Bowl champion could have Carson Wentz back by the end of the preseason, which would be a terrifying development for 31 teams. To recap: Wentz was a leading contender for MVP before tearing his ACL last season, but backup Nick Foles stepped up valiantly, leading the Eagles to the championship over the favored Patriots. It's still Wentz's job, however, and if he's healthy, fans everywhere should tune in to see if he's still in all-world form.
Although the Jets signed Teddy Bridgewater in free agency, it's eminently possible they use the No. 3 overall pick on another pivot. If so, the team could have one of the most competitive quarterback battles this offseason, and this matchup could dictate who begins under center when the meaningful games begin.
(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)
