Riley Bullough and Cameron Lynch, LB
With only one spot remaining at linebacker, the fan-favorite battle from HBO’s Hard Knocks series has entered its second act.
After three preseason contests, the hierarchy at linebacker has become clear. Lavonte David, Kwon Alexander, and Adarius Taylor will open the season as the starting linebacker trio, given that Kendell Beckwith still hasn’t returned to practice.
Behind them, sits Nigel Harris and Jack Cichy. Both have been with the second-team defense and are virtual locks to make the 53-man roster.
Devante Bond has missed the first three preseason games with an injury, and his absence has created another spot for either Riley Bullough or Cameron Lynch to take advantage.
In the third preseason game, Lynch saw slightly more snaps and may have the slight edge as a four-year veteran. The fourth preseason game will likely decide this battle, but both players are on the chopping block.
Special teams is a big factor for both of these players. They will see plenty of action in the final exhibition, but a key block to spring a returner could be the tip the scales.