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Preseason week 2 means that we get to see more from each team’s starters, but still doesn’t mean much.

The summer is slipping by fast, and with it another week of preseason football.

Come back weekly for this article on IDPPlus.com, going through each matchup and the top defensive players. It’s currently free for the preseason, but week 1 will be behind our paywall. You’ll get some box score analysis, that you can use to get ahead on waiver wires or taxi squads!

Let’s get into it-

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Philadelphia Eagles 14 @ New England Patriots 13

The Patriots edged out a narrow 13-14 loss to the Eagles, with both teams displaying formidable defensive efforts that kept the game tight until the final whistle.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Raekwon McMillan (New England Patriots) led the defensive charge with 9 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss, making him the top performer for the Patriots.
• Nakobe Dean (Philadelphia Eagles) was the standout player for the Eagles, contributing 5 total tackles, 4 solo, demonstrating his importance in the Eagles’ defense.
• A.J. Thomas (New England Patriots) followed closely with 6 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles, providing significant support in the Patriots’ secondary.

Injuries and Their Impact

• T.Steen (Philadelphia Eagles) was injured during the first quarter after making 2 solo tackles. His early exit impacted the Eagles’ defensive depth, although the team managed to compensate for his absence.
• E.Jenkins (Philadelphia Eagles) suffered an injury in the fourth quarter after recording 3 total tackles and 1 tackle for loss. Jenkins later returned to the game, continuing his contributions to the Eagles’ defense.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Atlanta Falcons 12 @ Baltimore Ravens 13

The Ravens narrowly secured a 13-12 victory over the Falcons, with strong performances from key defensive players on both sides. The game was characterized by relentless defensive pressure, with numerous tackles for loss, sacks, and critical stops that kept the score tight throughout.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Natrone Brooks (Atlanta Falcons) stood out with an impressive 13 total tackles, including 8 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss. Brooks was a constant presence on the field, showcasing his ability to halt the Ravens’ offense.
• Beau Brade (Baltimore Ravens) led the Ravens’ defense with 8 total tackles, 5 of which were solo. His solid performance was crucial in keeping the Falcons’ offense in check.
• Milo Eifler (Atlanta Falcons) contributed 8 tackles, with 6 solo, further strengthening the Falcons’ defensive front.

Injuries and Impact

• C.Collier (Baltimore Ravens) sustained an injury during the game after recording 4 rushing attempts for 17 yards. His injury occurred during a fumble recovery attempt, and while he was a key part of the Ravens’ offense, his absence was felt on the defensive side as well.
• A.Isaac (Baltimore Ravens) was injured late in the fourth quarter after recording 4 tackles. This injury came during a crucial drive by the Falcons, which added pressure on the Ravens’ defense to hold the lead.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Cincinnati Bengals 3 @ Chicago Bears 27

In a decisive 27-3 victory for the Chicago Bears over the Cincinnati Bengals, the defensive units on both sides made their presence known throughout the game. The Bears’ defense was particularly dominant, limiting the Bengals’ offense to just three points and consistently applying pressure that led to crucial stops and turnovers. The game showcased the effectiveness of strong defensive play in determining the outcome of a matchup.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Maema Njongmeta (Cincinnati Bengals) was a standout on the Bengals’ defense, recording 8 total tackles, including 7 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss. His efforts were critical in trying to contain the Bears’ offense.
• Reddy Steward (Chicago Bears) led the Bears’ defense with 6 total tackles, 5 of which were solo. Steward’s coverage and tackling were key factors in the Bears’ defensive dominance.
• Amen Ogbongbemiga (Chicago Bears) also made a significant impact with 6 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles and a pass deflection, showcasing his ability to disrupt the Bengals’ passing game.

Injuries and Impact

• Jalen Davis (Cincinnati Bengals) was injured during the game after contributing 3 total tackles. His injury occurred while making a stop, and his absence was felt in the Bengals’ secondary.
• B.Murray (Chicago Bears) sustained an injury during the fourth quarter after being involved in a defensive stop. His contributions included a critical tackle that helped secure the Bears’ lead.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

New York Giants 10 @ Houston Texans 28

The Houston Texans secured a 28-10 victory over the New York Giants. The Texans’ defense capitalized on multiple turnovers and held the Giants to just one touchdown throughout the game. Key plays, including interceptions and fumble recoveries, were instrumental in the Texans maintaining control and sealing the win. The Giants’ defense showed moments of resilience but struggled to contain the Texans’ offense in critical moments.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Micah McFadden (New York Giants) led the Giants’ defense with 7 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles. His efforts were critical in attempting to slow down the Texans’ running game, although he was injured during the first quarter.
• Jalen Pitre (Houston Texans) was a standout for the Texans, not only recording 2 solo tackles but also securing a key interception that he returned for a touchdown, giving the Texans a significant early lead.
• Kris Boyd (Houston Texans) contributed significantly with 4 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt the Giants’ offense.

Injuries and Impact

• Micah McFadden (New York Giants) was injured while making a tackle early in the game. Before his injury, he recorded 7 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles, playing a crucial role in the Giants’ defensive efforts.
• Matthew Adams (New York Giants) also sustained an injury during the game after recording 2 tackles. His exit further weakened the Giants’ defense as they struggled to contain the Texans.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Detroit Lions 24 @ Kansas City Chiefs 23

The Kansas City Chiefs were narrowly edged out by the Detroit Lions with a final score of 23-24. Both teams showcased strong defensive efforts, with key plays from defenders contributing to the intensity of the game. The Chiefs’ defense was particularly effective in the red zone, while the Lions managed to apply consistent pressure, resulting in multiple sacks and a crucial turnover.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Christian Roland-Wallace (Kansas City Chiefs) led the Chiefs’ defense with 9 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles and 1 pass deflection. His ability to be around the ball was crucial in limiting the Lions’ offensive success.
• Swayze Bozeman (Kansas City Chiefs) also had a standout performance with 7 total tackles and 4 solo tackles, playing a key role in stopping the Lions’ running game.
• Khalil Dorsey (Detroit Lions) was a defensive force for the Lions, recording 5 total tackles, 4 solo tackles, and 1 tackle for loss, showcasing his effectiveness in both pass coverage and run defense.

Injuries and Impact

• Isaac Ukwu (Detroit Lions) was injured during the first quarter but returned to the game shortly after. Despite the brief injury, Ukwu’s performance included 1 solo tackle and 1 sack, contributing to the Lions’ pass rush.
• Khalil Dorsey (Detroit Lions) had a strong game with 5 tackles and 1 tackle for loss, but his early performance was hindered after a hit, although he continued to play.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Minnesota Vikings 27 @ Cleveland Browns 12

The Minnesota Vikings secured a 27-12 victory over the Cleveland Browns. The Vikings’ defense played a pivotal role in limiting the Browns’ offensive drives, leading to multiple turnovers, including two critical interceptions. On the other side, the Browns’ defense managed to keep the game within reach with several sacks and tackles for loss, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Vikings’ balanced attack.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Lewis Cine (Minnesota Vikings) led the Vikings with a dominant performance, recording 11 total tackles, 5 solo tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, and 1 pass deflection. Cine was instrumental in both run support and pass coverage, making key plays throughout the game.
• Dallas Gant (Minnesota Vikings) contributed with 9 total tackles, including 6 solo tackles and a pass deflection. Gant’s consistent presence on the field helped the Vikings maintain control over the Browns’ offense.
• Chris Williams (Cleveland Browns) was a standout for the Browns, amassing 3 solo tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss, and 2 quarterback hits. His ability to disrupt the Vikings’ backfield was a key factor in the Browns’ defensive efforts.

Injuries and Impact

• J.Hudson (Cleveland Browns) sustained an injury during the second quarter but did not record any defensive stats after the injury.
• Z.Mitchell-Paden (Cleveland Browns) was injured late in the fourth quarter after making a catch, finishing with 8 total yards on the play.
• H.Adeniji (Cleveland Browns) was injured after a long interception return by the Vikings, impacting the Browns’ ability to generate offense thereafter.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Seattle Seahawks 15 @ Tennessee Titans 16

The Tennessee Titans edged out the Seattle Seahawks with a final score of 16-15. Both teams showcased strong defensive efforts, with key plays from defensive stars on both sides. The game was marked by several critical sacks, tackles for loss, and turnovers that kept the score close until the final whistle.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Tyrice Knight (Seattle Seahawks) led the Seahawks with 8 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss. Knight was a consistent force on the field, making key stops to limit the Titans’ offensive drives.
• Marquise Blair (Seattle Seahawks) contributed significantly with 7 total tackles, 5 of which were solo. Blair’s presence in both run defense and pass coverage was crucial in keeping the Titans’ offense in check.
• Chance Campbell (Tennessee Titans) stood out for the Titans, recording 8 total tackles, 6 of which were solo, and 1 tackle for loss. Campbell’s ability to read plays and make timely tackles helped the Titans hold off the Seahawks’ offense.

Injuries and Impact

• D.J. James (Seattle Seahawks) was involved in several impactful plays before sustaining an injury. He recorded 4 tackles, including 3 solo tackles, and was instrumental in limiting the Titans’ passing game with a pass deflection.
• Sam Schnee (Tennessee Titans) also went down with an injury late in the game. Prior to his injury, he contributed 1 tackle and played a role in special teams.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Arizona Cardinals 13 @ Indianapolis Colts 21

The Indianapolis Colts emerged victorious over the Arizona Cardinals with a final score of 21-13. Both teams displayed strong defensive performances, with numerous players stepping up to make impactful plays. The game was characterized by a series of sacks, tackles for loss, and key defensive stops that kept the scoring low and the outcome in doubt until the final minutes.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Segun Olubi (Indianapolis Colts) led the Colts with 9 total tackles, 3 of which were solo. Olubi’s consistent effort was critical in keeping the Cardinals’ offense from gaining momentum.
• Nick Cross (Indianapolis Colts) was also a standout performer, recording 5 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles and 1 tackle for loss. Cross was effective in both run support and pass coverage.
• Darren Hall (Arizona Cardinals) was a key player for the Cardinals, registering 5 total tackles, 4 of them solo, along with 2 pass deflections. Hall’s ability to disrupt the Colts’ passing game was a highlight for Arizona’s defense.

Injuries and Impact

• J.Gaines (Arizona Cardinals) sustained an injury during the second quarter. Before his exit, Gaines contributed to the team’s defensive effort but did not record any significant stats after the injury.
• Xavier Thomas (Arizona Cardinals) was another player who got injured during the game. He had made 3 total tackles, with 2 solo tackles and 1 sack, before his injury.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Washington Commanders 6 @ Miami Dolphins 13

The Miami Dolphins managed to edge out the Washington Commanders with a final score of 13-6. The game was defined by strong defensive efforts from both teams, with several key players standing out. Despite a few missed opportunities, both defenses showcased their ability to limit the opposing offenses and create impactful plays, including sacks and tackles for loss.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Marcus Maye (Miami Dolphins) led the Dolphins with 7 total tackles, including 5 solo tackles. His performance was crucial in containing the Commanders’ offensive drives.
• Mykal Walker (Washington Commanders) stood out for the Commanders with 6 total tackles, 3 of which were solo. Walker’s consistent pressure was a key factor in keeping the Dolphins from extending their lead.
• Isaiah Johnson (Miami Dolphins) was another top performer, recording 6 total tackles and 4 solo tackles, contributing significantly to the Dolphins’ defensive resilience.

Injuries and Impact

• David Long Jr. (Miami Dolphins) was injured during the first quarter after recording 6 total tackles, including 3 solo tackles. His presence was missed as the game progressed, but the Dolphins’ defense managed to hold strong without him.
• Kevin Kelly (Washington Commanders) sustained an injury during the third quarter. Before exiting the game, Kelly had contributed 2 solo tackles.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Buffalo Bills 9 @ Pittsburgh Steelers 3

The Buffalo Bills secured a narrow 9-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Both teams relied heavily on their defenses, with multiple sacks and tackles for loss keeping the game low-scoring. The Bills managed to pull ahead with consistent field goals, while the Steelers struggled to find momentum on offense.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Joe Andreessen (Buffalo Bills) led all defenders with 12 total tackles, including 7 solo stops. His presence in the middle was crucial in containing the Steelers’ running game.
• Mark Robinson (Pittsburgh Steelers) matched Andreessen’s intensity, recording 6 total tackles and 5 solo tackles, including a tackle for loss that disrupted a key play.
• Nick Herbig (Pittsburgh Steelers) was a standout for the Steelers, contributing 6 total tackles, 3 solo, and adding 1.5 sacks along with a tackle for loss.

Injuries and Impact

• Tyler Matakevich (Pittsburgh Steelers) suffered an injury in the third quarter but was able to return to the game. He recorded 1 tackle and 1 sack during his time on the field.
• Mack Hollins (Buffalo Bills) was injured late in the second quarter. Before his exit, he had 2 tackles and contributed to the Bills’ defensive efforts.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

New York Jets 15 @ Carolina Panthers 12

The New York Jets edged out the Carolina Panthers with a 15-12 victory. Both defenses dominated the field, making crucial stops and keeping the score low. Field goals played a significant role in this game as both teams struggled to reach the end zone, relying heavily on their defenses to maintain control.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Zaire Barnes (New York Jets) led the Jets’ defense with 7 total tackles, including 3 solo stops. His ability to consistently be around the ball helped the Jets stifle the Panthers’ offense.
• Jammie Robinson (Carolina Panthers) matched Barnes with 7 total tackles and 4 solo stops, contributing to the Panthers’ strong defensive performance.
• Chazz Surratt (New York Jets) made his presence felt with 6 total tackles, showcasing his versatility across the field.

Injuries and Impact

• Tae Davis (Carolina Panthers) suffered an injury in the third quarter but managed to make 3 total tackles, including 2 solo, before leaving the game.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Los Angeles Rams 13 @ Los Angeles Chargers 9

The Los Angeles Rams secured a narrow 13-9 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Both teams showcased strong defensive efforts, limiting offensive opportunities and keeping the score low throughout the game. The Rams’ defense came through in key moments, particularly in the second half, to secure the win.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Omar Speights (Los Angeles Rams) led the Rams’ defense with 8 total tackles, including 7 solo stops. His ability to disrupt plays was crucial in the Rams’ victory.
• Matt Hankins (Los Angeles Chargers) was a standout for the Chargers with 5 total tackles, all of them solo, showcasing his one-on-one tackling ability.
• Shaun Jolly (Los Angeles Rams) and Russ Yeast (Los Angeles Rams) each recorded 4 tackles, contributing significantly to the Rams’ defensive stand.

Injuries and Impact

• Zach Evans (Los Angeles Rams) suffered an injury during the third quarter after a 1-yard run but later returned to the game. Despite the injury, Evans managed to contribute with 5 rushing attempts for a total of 17 yards.
• Bennett Scott (Los Angeles Rams) was briefly injured but returned to the game and finished with 5 rushing attempts for 14 yards.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7 @ Jacksonville Jaguars 20

The Jacksonville Jaguars secured a solid 20-7 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a game dominated by defensive efforts. Both teams displayed strong defensive plays, with multiple sacks and key tackles that limited offensive production. Jacksonville’s defense, led by impactful performances from their front line, played a crucial role in securing the win.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Antonio Grier Jr. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) led the Buccaneers with 7 total tackles, including 4 solo tackles, showcasing his ability to read plays and make key stops.
• Jose Ramirez (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) had an impressive performance with 5 total tackles, 3 of which were sacks. His pressure on the quarterback was a significant factor in slowing down Jacksonville’s offense.
• Jarrian Jones (Jacksonville Jaguars) was the standout for the Jaguars with 4 solo tackles, playing a pivotal role in preventing Tampa Bay from gaining momentum.

Injuries and Impact

• Jose Ramirez (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) recorded 5 total tackles, including 3 sacks, before sustaining an injury in the third quarter. Despite his early exit, his contributions were vital in keeping the game close.
• J.J. Jones (Jacksonville Jaguars) was briefly injured in the third quarter but returned to the game, contributing with 1 tackle and helping the Jaguars maintain their defensive pressure.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Dallas Cowboys 27 @ Las Vegas Raiders 12

In a matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Las Vegas Raiders, the Cowboys emerged victorious with a 27-12 win. The game was characterized by strong defensive performances from both teams, with neither side allowing significant offensive breakthroughs early on. Dallas managed to pull ahead thanks to key defensive stops and a critical interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Raiders struggled to find rhythm, ultimately succumbing to the Cowboys’ relentless defensive pressure.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Andrew Booth Jr. (Dallas Cowboys) led the Cowboys with 8 total tackles, 7 of which were solo. His aggressive tackling helped contain the Raiders’ offense throughout the game.
• Divine Deablo (Las Vegas Raiders) was a standout for the Raiders, recording 6 tackles with 4 solo efforts, anchoring the Raiders’ defense and limiting the Cowboys’ ground game.
• Robert Spillane (Las Vegas Raiders) also had a solid performance with 5 total tackles, playing a key role in disrupting Dallas’ offensive plays.

Injuries and Impact

• No significant injuries were reported during the game that impacted defensive player performance.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Green Bay Packers 2 @ Denver Broncos 27

The Denver Broncos secured a dominant 27-2 victory over the Green Bay Packers, thanks to a stifling defensive performance that included multiple sacks and a safety. The Broncos’ defense overwhelmed the Packers’ offense, which struggled to gain momentum throughout the game. Key plays from Denver’s defensive line and secondary ensured the Packers remained scoreless until the third quarter, where they only managed a safety.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Ty’Ron Hopper (Green Bay Packers): Hopper was the standout player for the Packers with 11 total tackles, 6 of which were solo. His consistent presence on the field helped mitigate some of Denver’s offensive drives.
• Kristian Welch (Green Bay Packers): Welch also made a significant impact with 6 tackles, 4 of them solo, and recorded 1 tackle for loss and 1 pass deflection, showcasing his versatility.
• Jonas Griffith (Denver Broncos): Griffith led the Broncos with 8 total tackles, 5 solo, anchoring the Denver defense and contributing to their dominance in the game.

Injuries and Impact

• Jonas Griffith (Denver Broncos): Griffith was injured in the third quarter after making a tackle. Before his injury, he had accumulated 8 total tackles, 5 of which were solo, making him a crucial part of Denver’s defensive effort.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

New Orleans Saints 10 @ San Francisco 49ers 16

The San Francisco 49ers secured a hard-fought 16-10 victory over the New Orleans Saints in a game dominated by strong defensive performances on both sides. The 49ers’ defense, led by standout plays and key sacks, stifled the Saints’ offense, especially in crucial moments. Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, making it a low-scoring affair.

Top Tackling Defensive Players

• Tatum Bethune (San Francisco 49ers): Bethune was the leader on the 49ers’ defense, recording 10 total tackles, including 6 solo tackles. His ability to stop the run and contribute to tackles for loss played a crucial role in the 49ers’ defensive success.
• Jalen Graham (San Francisco 49ers): Graham was instrumental with 6 total tackles and 4 solo tackles. He also added a sack and a tackle for loss, demonstrating his ability to disrupt the Saints’ offensive plays.
• Anfernee Orji (New Orleans Saints): Orji led the Saints’ defense with 8 total tackles, 7 of them solo, along with a tackle for loss. His aggressive play helped keep the 49ers’ offense in check for much of the game.

Injuries and Impact

• Nick Williams (San Francisco 49ers): Williams was injured during a crucial defensive stop in the first quarter but returned later in the game. Before his injury, he contributed 2 total tackles and was involved in key defensive plays.
• Khristian Boyd (New Orleans Saints): Boyd was briefly sidelined with an injury in the fourth quarter but returned to the game. He recorded 2 total tackles and was involved in critical plays near the line of scrimmage.

Defensive Players’ Stats Table

View In Article: https://idpplus.com/recapping-nfl-preseason-week-2/

Thanks for reading, you can follow me on X at @NateCheat and reach out to me in the IDP+ Discord for any questions!

One of the most important roles on the field is the player with the “Green Dot” on their helmet because they call the plays for the defense. This article will call out those players, since they will get the most opportunity to make a play on the field.

You might just be starting out in IDP or individual defensive player fantasy football, and hearing Green Dot Linebacker for the first time. That’s ok, thats what IDP+ is here for! The Green Dot Linebacker is referring to the player on defense that has a headset in their helmet so they can communicate with the coaches while on the field. The NFL is a step up in technology from College Football where players have to run to the sidelines, or they use hand signals, and sometimes even use massive cards with symbols on them to tell the players on the field what to do. This is all handled by a single player with a headset that can go into the huddle and call the plays.

So why is this significant? Well the NFL has money, but apparently not that much money, because they only put this headset in one helmet on each side of the ball. The offensive Green Dot is always the quarterback, they enter the huddle and communicate with the staff and then call the plays. Seems simple enough. So on defense, they give this helmet to the player who will remain on the field the longest. This is usually a linebacker, and usually the most trusted player. Availability is opportunity in the NFL, and being on the field and calling plays means that they have the best shot of being a consistent producer of stats for fantasy football!

So let’s take a look at each team’s projected Green Dot Linebacker after training camp and preseason week 2:

This article is for Subscribers of IDP+ at idpplus.com, become a subscriber and get full access to this article: https://idpplus.com/projecting-green-dot-linebackers-after-preseason-week-2/