NFL All-Preseason team: Ty Simpson, Mike Washington, D'Zhaun Stribling among biggest standouts in 2026

As the NFL season approaches, the preseason delivered some impressive performances from players eager to prove their worth. During the month of August, numerous athletes showcased standout performances, providing valuable reps before the regular season commenced. These preseason games were particularly significant for fringe roster players, rookies hoping to secure a spot, or players on the bubble.

In some cases, the performances would pave the way for a spark in their careers, while in other instances, they could be a highlight of a player's career if they were unable to maintain their level of play when the regular season arrived.

Ty Simpson, Mike Washington Jr., and D’Zhaun Stribling were among the biggest standouts in the 2026 preseason. Simpson, a controversial pick when the Rams selected him in the first round, delivered an impressive showing during his first NFL action. He completed 47 of 60 passes for a league-leading 78.4 completion percentage, earning 382 passing yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions while leading the Rams to multiple scoring drives.

Although his performance in a later game against the Chiefs was not as impressive, his overall preseason debut was highly impressive.

Joe Fagnano, the Ravens' quarterback, had the most impressive numbers among quarterbacks in the preseason, leading the league with 509 passing yards and a completion percentage of 74.7 percent. Fagnano added three touchdowns and only one interception, securing much of the Ravens' quarterback playing time. While Tyler Huntley is the backup, Fagnano's strong performance demonstrates why a team should retain him as depth.

Mike Washington Jr., the Cincinnati Raiders' rookie running back, entered the 2026 season as the backup to Ashton Jeanty, who was injured. However, Washington Jr. had already proven his worth, averaging 7.9 yards per carry in his first two preseason games. One of his standout moments was a 53-yard run against the Arizona Cardinals. Washington Jr. is poised to make a significant impact in his rookie season.