2015 NFL Preseason Week 4: 5 Things to Watch For

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The final slate of 2015 NFL preseason games are here, and it’s just a matter of one full week until the games that count arrive. For now, Thursday night’s schedule of 16 NFL preseason games will do just fine, as it’s still pro football hitting our television screens. There’s even reason to tune in, as various players are still trying to win spots as teams finalize their rosters.

There’s also going to be a lot of guys you never heard of and some ugly football. Let’s sort through the madness and point out the five key things to watch for tonight:

Tebow Time

Tim Tebow could be getting his last real shot at earning an NFL job tonight, as he’s expected to play a good amount for the Eagles in their preseason finale. Tebow looked OK in his debut, but has really regressed as a passer over his last two games. If he can’t make a real impact in tonight’s game, it’s very possible we’ve seen the last of Tebowmania.

Zach Zenner Show

The undrafted Zenner has been one of the top rushers throughout preseason, as he’s averaged 6.5 yards per carry and has looked like a true feature back. He’s done most of his damage against second and third string defenses, but he has a first team skill-set and probably shouldn’t get cut loose. The Lions have three quality running backs ahead of him on the depth chart, however, and may not be able to keep him. Look for him to beast out in his last chance to earn a spot, as one way or another this guy is destined to play at the highest level.

Running Backs Fighting For Jobs

Zenner isn’t the only running back battling for a roster spot, and some of the names are pretty big. Christine Michael, Montee Ball and Chris Johnson are three pretty big names fighting for their lives in tonight’s finale, and all could get cut if they don’t impress.

Janis Seeks Trust

Green Bay Packers quarterback supposedly doesn’t have total trust in second-year size/speed freak Jeff Janis, who on the surface looks like the perfect candidate to replace the injured Jordy Nelson. Janis has exhibited fantastic speed and play-making ability, but has mental lapses that cloud his upside in what still figures to be a potent offense. It’s unlikely he corrects all of his mistakes tonight, but finishing the preseason with a strong showing surely can’t hurt his case.

Future Starting Quarterbacks

With star players and starting quarterbacks in general not seeing much (if any) time on the field tonight, we can expect to get long looks at some young passers. Guys like Brock Osweiler, Bryce Petty, Brett Hundley, Chase Daniel, Ryan Nassib and so many more (the entire league is active tonight, after all) should have plenty of opportunities to impress. Few have a real shot at playing time this year, but we could be seeing the next generation of starters in some respects.

Got something even better to watch in tonight’s NFL preseason action? Tell us in the comments below!

*photo credit – Baltimoresun.com