Seattle’s final preseason audition centers on the last five in and the first five out, with Chris McDonald-like depth at every position looming large. Kenneth Walker III anchors the ground game when healthy, while Zach Charbonnet supplies thunder and fresh legs. Jackson Smith-Njigba is the clear top target in a diversified WR corps that also features Dariq Young and rookie depth pieces, and Brady Russell’s versatility on special teams could prove pivotal. The offense is balanced by a surprisingly solid line and a high-variance receiving group, complicating roster math as Seattle eyeing the Week 1 opener. A crucial joint practice with Green Bay will reveal which fringe players carry real Week 1 upside, and the defense remains pressed for depth at inside linebacker and safety. The episode homed in on the bubble players, the depth charts, and the tactical levers coaches will pull to trim to 53.

Analysts also mapped out the immediate impact of the joint practice, noting how the offense’s three-quarterback structure (Darl, Lock, Milro) could shape snap shares, and how special-teams contributions (Brady Russell) could tilt the final cut decisions. The Packers clash looms as the real test—particularly Love against Seattle’s corners and safeties, with Clark and the GB front seeking momentum. If Seattle can retain flexibility at edge and nose tackle, plus a legitimate five-man backfield, they’ll enter Week 1 with a compelling, flexible playbook and a clearer path to the 53-man roster than the tale of last year’s cuts might suggest.

Seattle’s entry into Week 2 of the preseason showcased a clearer path to Week 1 starters and a sharper offensive identity. Bradford seized the right guard role as Ola Timmy’s health status loomed over guard and center questions, with Jaylen Sundell moving to center by default. The ground game looked more controlled and third- and fourth-down execution improved significantly in the Raiders game window, suggesting a more intentional, NFL-ready approach from the coaching staff. Tory Horton leapt to WR3 with eye-catching plays, while several rookies—Jakardia Wright and Gray Zabel among them—turned heads with their burst and balance. On defense, Shaquille Griffin’s return offered veteran steadiness, and young pieces like Jamie Sheriff and Josh Ross began staking claims for depth roles. Bubble-watch battles at RB, WR, DT, and LB promise to shape Seattle’s 53-man roster as cuts approach, with four still very much in play and room for meaningful fantasy relevance.

The Los Angeles Chargers faced a disappointing playoff loss against the Houston Texans, with star quarterback Justin Herbert struggling significantly in this high-stakes matchup. Herbert's performance, characterized by four interceptions and a passer rating of just 40.9, has raised concerns about his ability to perform under pressure in crucial games.

Despite this setback, the Chargers have a promising future ahead. The team's coaching staff, led by Jim Harbaugh, has shown potential to develop the roster and improve their playoff performance in subsequent seasons. Key players like Lad Makoni have emerged as bright spots, showcasing their skills even in tough situations.

As the Chargers prepare for the offseason, there will be a focus on enhancing the offensive line and bolstering the supporting cast around Herbert to ensure better results in future playoff appearances.