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Robert Griffin III is still Washington's starter barring any more setbacks

Robert Griffin III is still the starting QB in Washington, Denver adds Evan Mathis to its offensive line and more news from around the NFL.

By Alexis Chassen
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

During Week 2 of the preseason, the worst case scenario happened to Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III: a concussion. After a mediocre 2014 season that included several injuries and missed games, this year is Griffin's chance to show the team and head coach Jay Gruden that he can still be efficient under center.

So far this preseason, Griffin has an unimpressive 46.2 completion percentage, going 6 of 13 for 44 yards. The coaching staff is considering all OTA and training camp performances when making the decision about a starter, which is good for Griffin given his lesser showing compared to his backups, Kirk Cousins and Colt McCoy.

"We just have to make sure we do our best to put Robert in a good place, with play calls and and getting things going offensively," Gruden said, per the Washington Post. "Hats off to Kirk and Colt."

The competition for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart can change daily, but both have shown effective playmaking abilities. Cousins has completed 20 of 26 passes (76.9 percent) for 245 yards and a passing touchdown. McCoy has completed 9 of 12 passes (75 percent) for 113 yards and a touchdown so far this preseason.

Denver signs Mathis

Trying to protect quarterback Peyton Manning is an obvious priority for the Broncos, and the team was willing to invest in strengthening the line when it signed Evan Mathis to a one-year deal. The former Eagle had recently met with the Seahawks, who expressed interest in the lineman, but the 33-year-old signed up to protect one of the best quarterbacks in the league.

Broncos GM John Elway had mentioned the possibility of adding some help to the offensive line if they found the right player. There were few exciting free-agent options, so this is the perfect short-term solution for both sides.

Tennessee receiving corps stronger with DGB

The Titans took a big risk drafting wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham after he missed the entire 2014 season. The 6'5, 237-pound receiver has displayed early signs of potential and earned reps with the first team in Week 2 of the preseason. DGB has caught five passes for 72 yards, but it was his footwork and speed that impressed coaches and fans.

So long as Green-Beckham sticks to excelling on the field and avoids any off-field issues, he could easily earn a starting role for the Titans and have a breakout year with Marcus Mariota under center.

Cruz hits setback

Wide receiver Victor Cruz suffered a calf injury last week after missing last season with a torn patellar tendon, and Giants head coach Tom Coughlin is admittedly worried about getting Cruz back into the offense.

"I would like to see him get out there and be able to stay out there, that's what our real intent is. As soon as that can be done then that's what will happen," Coughlin said, per Big Blue View.

At the very least Cruz is expected to be back Week 1 of the regular season when the Giants face the Cowboys.

Cincinnati committed to McCarron as backup

The Cincinnati Bengals must have confidence in backup quarterback A.J. McCarron as they released quarterback Josh Johnson following the Week 2 preseason game. Starting QB Andy Dalton had a dismal performance against the Bucs on Monday, and with Johnson now gone, McCarron could be the sole replacement for a failing or injured Dalton.

McCarron completed 11 of 15 passes for 97 yards on Monday against Tampa Bay. Despite shoulder issues during the preseason, the backup assured coaches and fans that it's nothing to worry about.

Bridgewater has lofty completion goals

The Vikings take their quarterback completion percentage very seriously; it's indicative of players who care for the football and make smart decisions in the pocket. Teddy Bridgewater notes the completion goal for the Vikings is 70 percent. Should he be able to accomplish such a feat, he would be among only four other quarterbacks ever to do so, including Drew Brees (twice), Ken Anderson, Steve Young and Joe Montana.

Not only would Bridgewater be among NFL greatness, he would also surpass the highest completion percentage in Vikings' history. The current record was set by Daunte Culpepper in 2004 at 69.2 percent.

Gurley cleared to practice

The St. Louis Rams are happy to have rookie Todd Gurley back on the practice field, but that doesn't mean he will see any playing time during the preseason. Despite medical clearance from team doctors, head coach Jeff Fisher and staff are easing the running back into the game as appropriate.

"He may need a day off here and there, but it's good news. Dr. (James) Andrews was really pleased with his progress, so he's cutting him loose. He'll be with a brace. He'll have to continue to wear the brace," Fisher said, per Turf Show Times.

The young back is excited to get back on the field, but understands that taking his time is the key to staying healthy.

The Rams' offense should see an instant impact from the rookie after Gurley amassed 3,285 rushing yards on 510 attempts in college at Georgia.

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