The NFL preseason is officially underway, which means it’s time again for football fans around the world to try to find reasons to care. For most fans, the preseason is a few series of entertaining football followed by hours of players you’ve never heard of. But for the teams playing the games, it’s during these times that the 53-man roster is determined. If you’re struggling to get excited about the NFL preseason, try rooting for these Syracuse rookies trying to make the roster.
Dyshawn Davis
While no Syracuse players were taken in the 2015 NFL Draft, Davis signed with the Washington Redskins right after the draft finished. Davis’s 71 tackles in 2014 was good for 2nd most on the team, and mixed into those 71 were 6 tackles for loss. Davis is listed in the “Other” section of the Redskins’ depth chart, and isn’t even the highest rookie linebacker at the position. Louisiana Tech’s Houston Bates signed with Washington after the team’s rookie camp, and is listed as the third-string strong side linebacker, above Davis. The Redskins played the Browns last night, but will be back on the field next Thursday against the Lions.
Durell Eskridge
Durell Eskridge’s choice to leave for the NFL after his junior year looked to be a mistake after not being drafted, but the safety will get a chance to make it in the pros after signing with the Jets. Eskridge led all Syracuse defensive backs with 68 tackles in 2014, and had one interception (which he took back for a touchdown). Eskridge is listed as the Jets’ third-string free safety with both players ahead of him having at least 4 years of experience in the league. The thinner strong safety position might get Eskridge more opportunities with the Jets, but the preseason will give him plenty of snaps to prove himself at both spots. New York also played last night in Detroit, but the Jets will be back on the field next Friday against the Falcons.
Sean Hickey
If there was one Syracuse player who was supposed to be drafted this year, it was Hickey. The lineman was projected to be a mid-round pick, but instead went undrafted and signed with the Saints shortly after. New Orleans hasn’t filled out its depth chart on the team’s official site, but Hickey is listed as the third-string left tackle on ourlads.com. The Saints played the Ravens yesterday, and will be in the Superdome to play the Patriots next Saturday.
Cameron Lynch
Cameron Lynch led the Orange with 97 tackles in 2014. His 12 tackles for loss and seven sacks also led the team. He signed with St. Louis, but isn’t listed on the Rams’ depth chart. According to ourlads.com, he’s a third-string outside linebacker. The Rams are on the field tonight to play the Raiders in their preseason opener.
Posted: Nathan Dickinson
