Mid-Preseason Grades: Running back
How would every running back grade out after training camp and two games in the preseason?
Jordan Howard, B
Howard has not played in the preseason, but everything out of training camp would have given him an A. That is, of course, until reports came out that he wasn’t able to travel with the team in their last game with an eye issue. The issue is not significant enough to be nervous to the point of lowering the grade significantly, but it is a bump in the road to a perfect preseason.
Tarik Cohen, A
Cohen has been everything that team could ask for and more. He looks dynamic with the ball in his hands and could break a run on any play. Through two preseason games, he has 18 carries for 116 yards. He is being a big playmaker with the ball in his hands and is trending high as they head into the third preseason game.
Ka’Deem Carey, B+
Carey has made significant strides to getting off of the roster bubble this summer. His biggest case for being on the team has been his play on special teams. While he is only averaging 3.8 yards per carry, what he has brought on special teams has to have the team considering maintaining him on the roster. That is his best path to the team and that is where he is excelling. So far, that is a win for Carey.
Benny Cunningham, C
Cunningham has had some ups but has also had his downs. He has a few big catches and looks dynamic in space. He also showed well on a kick return. However, he has also failed to hit holes as a runner and has looked a lot less dynamic than the rookie Cohen. A ho hum preseason so far.
Jeremy Langford, F
Langford has to get on the field before this preseason costs him a roster spot. Langford just recently returned to practice and missed both preseason games. With Cohen and Carey proving roles in different areas, Langford will need to carve out a role to maintain his status.
Next: Preseason Grades: Quarterback
Joshua Rounds, D
Rounds was signed late into camp, but he looks way behind the curve. He has averaged less than two yards per carry and likely will not be kept on the practice squad.