Once the first players run out onto the field for the first regular season game in September, the preseason will become all but an afterthought - but for now we can all celebrate the return of competitive (ish) football.
Over the course of three days, NFL teams went head-to-head in a collection of games that were more glorified training sessions than actual meaningful match-ups, but they still provided a great opportunity for coaches to test new schemes and assess the performance of new signings, players returning from injury and rookies fighting for a starring role this season.
A few established names stood out (Carson Palmer and Philip Rivers to name two) but this weekly feature will take a look at the performances of players in new surroundings or those in a position to light up the league this season.
Michael Vick
Unfortunately for Michael Vick, it would seem that the Jets are set on naming Geno Smith as their starter this season, and any talk of a 'competition' is a lie. Of course, abandoning him would spell a second failed quarterback project in as many seasons. Smith flashed brilliance in college and showed plenty of the opposite last season, so Vick can keep up the pressure with a strong preseason. Neither quarterback had a stellar outing in week 1, but the 34-year-old Vick looked comfortable running the offense and broke off a spectacular 15 yard run to keep the drive alive and set the Jets up to score their only touchdown of the game.
Carlos Hyde
Already someone I had pegged to have a big 2014, Carlos Hyde was given ample opportunity on Thursday to show the 49ers coaches and fans exactly what he could do. The 6ft, 230 lbs running back displayed plenty of his uncanny speed and burst, and accumulated 39 yards on just five carries (7.3 yards per carry) against the Ravens' starting defence. Frank Gore has been resilient and largely injury-free throughout his career, but the older running backs get, the more likely they are to pick up injuries. The 49ers are now getting a glimpse at the future.
Jimmy Garappolo
It's still early days so we shouldn't crown Garappolo the heir apparent to Tom Brady's throne just yet, but he was undeniably impressive against the Redskins on Thursday. Garappolo outshone Ryan Mallett, showed good poise and decisiveness, looked comfortable throwing the deep ball and completed nine of 13 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown. He has plenty to improve upon, and Mallett is likely to improve in future weeks, but for now the Patriots can be safe knowing that they have two solid options to turn to should Brady get hurt this season.
Brandin Cooks
Despite being the toast of Saints training camp, it could be argued that Friday night's match between the Saints and the Rams was the moment when Brandin Cooks caught the eye of fans around the league. NFC south opponents will be concerned by his prominence within the offense, as well as his production. He was held in check on special teams, but he caught five passes for 55 yards, including using his ferocious speed to turn a short pass into an impressive 25 yard touchdown.
John Brown
The Arizona Cardinals were an unlikely candidate to put up the most points this week, but they managed to put 32 on Houston with the help of a new offensive weapon - John Brown. Brown has been turning heads in training camp and managed to bring that calibre of performance to an actual game. Against the starting Texans defence, the third-round draft pick caught five passes for 87 yards, drew a 39-yard interference penalty and was a persistent thorn in Houston's side whenever he was on the field. It was an impressive individual performance that underlines the depth Arizona have at receiver, and the potential potency of their offense this season.
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