Irish in the NFL: Dexter Williams, Drue Tranquill shine in preseason debuts

A couple of former Notre Dame players had some nice nights in their first NFL preseason games on Thursday.

Thursday night was the first big slate of NFL preseason games for the 2019 season. Several former Notre Dame stars made their presences felt in their respective games, including a couple of rookies making their NFL debuts.

Miles Boykin, Wide Receiver, Baltimore Ravens

Boykin was targeted nine times, catching four passes for 39 yards. He did score a touchdown, but it was called back due to a penalty. The Ravens defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 29-0.

T.J. Jones, Wide Receiver, New York Giants

Jones caught all six of his targets for 72 yards, including an impressive touchdown grab. The Giants defeated the New York Jets, 31-22. Jones’ performance was big for both him and the Giants. The team is in serious need of more playmakers and depth at the wide receiver position. Jones has the look of a guy who could give the Giants some quality reps in 2019.

Julian Love, Cornerback, New York Giants

Love had three tackles and defended a pass to help the Giants secure victory.

Deshone Kizer, Quarterback, Green Bay Packers

Kizer went an impressive 8 of 13 passing for 102 yards and a touchdown pass. The Packers defeated the Houston Texans, 28-26.

Dexter Williams, Running Back, Green Bay Packers

Williams was solid in his NFL preseason debut, leading all Green Bay rushers with 14 carries for 62 yards (4.4 yards per carry).

Drue Tranquill, Linebacker, Los Angeles Chargers

Tranquill had a productive night, logging six tackles and grabbing an interception in a 17-13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Isaac Rochell, Defensive End, Los Angeles Chargers

Rochell logged two tackles and a sack to help his team’s efforts.

There are five more NFL preseason games tonight, including the Saints hosting the Vikings. Former Notre Dame tight end Alize Mack will make his NFL preseason debut in that one.