Preseason football is officially here, and for Utah Utes faithful, it’s time to track your favorite alums as they battle for starting jobs, roster spots, and Super Bowl glory. With the 2026 NFL preseason in full swing, we’ve broken down exactly when and where to catch former University of Utah standouts. Forget scrolling through 15 different team schedules - this is your one-stop cheat sheet for Ute Nation. Whether you’re a draft junkie, a fantasy football nerd, or just a fan who loves seeing the Block U on the big stage, this guide has you covered.
The Headliners: Established Starters and High-Impact Playmakers
These are the guys you already know and love, and the ones you absolutely cannot miss. They’re either locked into starting roles or expected to make major noise in limited action before the regular season begins. The coaching staffs know what they have, so don’t expect heavy workloads - but when they’re on the field, it’s appointment viewing.
- Dalton Kincaid (TE, Buffalo Bills): Kincaid is the Bills’ undisputed starting tight end and a massive piece of Josh Allen’s passing attack. In the preseason opener against the Bears, he worked two series and hauled in one catch for nine yards - nothing flashy, but exactly what you want to see. You won’t see heavy minutes, but expect him to get a series or two in the second preseason game. Watch for: Smooth route running and a reception or two to prove he’s in midseason form. A 2-3 catch game for 20-30 yards is a great sign.
- Devin Lloyd (LB, Jacksonville Jaguars): The Jaguars' starting weakside linebacker is a tackling machine, fresh off a 2024 campaign where he snagged two interceptions. Lloyd is expected to see limited snaps in the exhibition slate, but with his ball-hawking ability, he’s always a threat for a splash play. Watch for: A big hit in run support or, if you’re lucky, a zone-drop pick that gets the sideline hyped.
- Garett Bolles (OT, Denver Broncos): Bolles is the ultimate veteran. He signed a two-year, $20 million extension in June 2025 and is the cornerstone of Denver’s offensive line. Critical note: Do not expect to see him on the field. He’s in "veteran rest" mode, and his preseason is essentially a well-paid vacation. Watch for: His pregame warmups - that’s the most you’ll see of him until Week 1, and honestly, it’s still glorious.
📊 1 catch for 9 yards in limited preseason action for Dalton Kincaid - The Bills' starting tight end is being protected, but his early rhythm suggests he's locked in for a monster 2026 campaign.
The Battlers: Fighting for Starting Spots and Key Rotational Roles
This is where the intensity ratchets up. These Utes are in the thick of fierce position battles, and every single snap matters. Coaches are evaluating everything - footwork, communication, effort, and how they handle adversity. This is the most compelling group to watch because their performances right now will dictate their roles for the next five months.
- Cole Bishop (S, Buffalo Bills): This is the most important Ute storyline of the preseason. Bishop is competing for a starting safety spot alongside Taylor Rapp, and he got the start in the first game, recording two tackles (one solo). If he continues to fly around and make tackles, that job is his. Watch for: His tackling in the open field and communication in the defensive backfield - especially his pre-snap checks.
- Nephi Sewell (LB, New Orleans Saints): Sewell is the ultimate special teams ace and a valuable backup linebacker. In the Saints' opener versus Arizona, he piled up three tackles (two solo). He’s not fighting for a starting job, but he’s battling for significant defensive snaps. A strong preseason showing could earn him a package of plays on third downs. Watch for: His aggression on punt and kick coverage teams - special teams is his ticket to a bigger role.
- T.J. Pledger (RB, New England Patriots): This is a pure roster-bubble battle. Pledger is competing for a depth running back spot and a potential practice squad role. He rushed for 18 yards on six carries in the first game, showing decent burst, and added one catch for five yards. Watch for: His pass protection - that is the quickest way to earn the trust of a coaching staff and secure a job. One clean blitz pickup could be the difference between making the 53-man roster and a call to the couch.
