This article is part of our NFL Barometer series.
A full slate of preseason games is now in the books, finally giving us some game tape to evaluate players on. Although it was only the initial taste of game action for all but two clubs – and many front-line players either sat or played very limited snaps – those first exhibitions featured an abundant amount of second-level skill players and key rookies, while also providing a glimpse of the roles in which teams are contemplating using them in the coming season. Additionally, as the injuries continue to pile up, the outlook for multiple players continues to shift.
With so much to examine this week, let's jump right into reviewing whose stock is either rising or falling heading into the second full week of preseason games.
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Quarterback
Baker Mayfield, Browns: Although Tyrod Taylor was also impressive in the exhibition opener, Mayfield could continue to force the issue if he remains as productive as he was last Thursday. He looked poised and comfortable while throwing for 212 yards and two touchdowns while also displaying some of his trademark mobility by gaining 13 yards on three rushes. This will be a battle to monitor over the rest of the preseason, with the top job still at least somewhat there for the taking if Mayfield is spectacular enough to warrant a shift in the Browns' current plan to open the season with Taylor at the helm.
Sam Darnold, Jets: Another first-rounder/veteran battle is emerging in the Big