How to watch former Ohio State stars in Week 2 of the NFL preseason

We are now heading into Week 2 of the NFL preseason, and, as such, just two glorious weeks away from the Ohio State season opener, followed quickly by the NFL regular season start. After another round of practices, several Buckeyes found their way back to the sideline or locker room with lingering injuries.

Last week’s NFL debut for rookie LB Raekwon McMillan was cut super short when he went down with a torn ACL, and several other rookies have yet to take their inaugural snap as a player in the league. While preseason isn’t taken too seriously, they are still critical opportunities for players on the bubble to solidify a roster spot, or at least garner some interest from other teams.

Here’s a breakdown of when to catch all of the Buckeyes in the NFL for this weekend’s Week 2 preseason slate of games.

Things to watch for Thursday

There are a slew of injuries to former Ohio State stars that otherwise would be suiting up on Thursday night, including Raekwon McMillan (torn ACL), Adolphus Washington (back spasms), and Michael Bennett (calf). Both Cameron Johnston and Doran Grant are still hoping to make the roster for their respective teams, and need to build off their impressive Week 1 preseason performances to get there.

Things to watch for Friday

Rookie offensive lineman Pat Elflein has been getting reps at several different positions, but is still working to secure the job of starting center for the Vikings. Reid Fragel was kicked out of training camp for fighting as head coach Mike Zimmer’s patience for ruckus is dwindling, and will need to keep performing well on the field to make up for any issues off of it.

Things to watch for Saturday

Rookie receiver Curtis Samuel might make his NFL preseason debut this week. Following a lingering hamstring issue that persisted throughout training camp, Samuel saw an increased workload in practice this week, signaling that even if he doesn’t see action this week, he’ll be back soon.

Other injury news includes Braxton Miller likely missing the Week 2 contest with a mild ankle sprain, and Malik Hooker back on the sideline after leaving practice Tuesday with a shoulder injury. Gareon Conley is expected to be in the starting rotation for the Raiders once the regular season hits, but for now, he’s still sitting out of practice with a banged up shin.

Things to watch for Sunday

Ryan Shazier didn’t suit of for the Steelers’ first preseason game, and the team could keep him out until the regular season just to ensure his health come go-time. College and pro teammate Cameron Heyward was the exact opposite. After spending the second half of the 2016 season on IR, Heyward was looking for as many snaps as he could get last week.

The late-game on Sunday offers the most Buckeye-viewing for your pleasure. With seven former Ohio State stars suiting up, there will be no shortage of big plays and big stops made by notable alumni. Cardale Jones is still in the mix to be the Chargers’No. 2 QB, but really needs to have a couple consistent performances heading into the regular season to snatch that spot.

Things to watch for Monday

Mike Nugent might have finally been signed by the Giants, but that doesn’t guarantee him a spot on the final 53-man roster. He’s in a tough kicking competition that’ll likely take him all the way to the roster deadline, but whether he’s shaken off the issues that plagued him Cincinnati is still a concern.