Takeaways from Thursday's NFL preseason openers

Even with limited snaps, Milton looked arguably better than Bailey Zappe, the player he's probably battling with for a spot on the 53-man roster. Zappe didn't play poorly, going 12-for-20 for 108 yards, but the former Tennessee standout showcased more versatility and, perhaps, a higher ceiling. 

Malik Nabers made more impact defensively than offensively in NFL debut

While many Giants fans were excited to see Nabers suit up for the first time, aside from a one-handed catch during pre-game warmups, the rookie wideout was a virtual non-factor. In fact, he recorded more tackles (one) than receptions (zero) on Thursday. 

However, Nabers' performance isn't likely to have New York regretting the pick, as the 2024 No. 6 pick seemingly broke open several times against the Lions' secondary. The real problem might be quarterback depth, as neither Drew Lock nor Tommy DeVito sent a pass the promising rookie's way.

Offensive line depth could be a concern for Lions

Unsurprisingly, the Lions rested most of their starters on Thursday. However, the team's backups along the offensive line didn't take advantage of the spotlight.

Rookie tackle Giovanni Manu looked out-matched most of the night, allowing a sack early on. Meanwhile, second-year lineman Connor Galvin left the field on a cart after suffering a knee injury, which head coach Dan Campbell told reporters could be "long term." 

Panthers offense was a no-show

Sure, starting quarterback and 2023 No. 1 pick Bryce Young wasn't the signal-caller, nor was backup Andy Dalton, Thursday against the Patriots. However, the lackluster play of the Panthers wideouts was somewhat alarming.

Starters Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall Jr. combined for zero catches off three targets, finishing with a drop apiece. The Panthers hope that had more to do with the struggles of backup QBs Jack Plummer (11-of-21, 86 yards) and Jake Luton (7-of-19, 38 yards), or it might be another long year for a team that finished 2-15 in 2023. 

Giants running back Eric Gray gets a measure of revenge

During joint practice sessions this week, Lions safety Morice Norris laid a dirty hit on the Giants running back, knocking his helmet off. On Thursday, Gray got the last laugh, juking Norris to the ground en route to a 48-yard touchdown. 

It was one of two scores on the night for the second-year back, who had four carries for 52 yards (13.0 YPC). Gray is currently in the running for the backup spot behind Devin Singletary, battling it out with fifth-round rookie Tyrone Tracy, who recorded 26 yards on five touches against the Lions.

Lions' undrafted quarterback turned wideout impresses

Isaiah Williams, an undrafted rookie receiver, was one of the surprise standouts on Thursday. The former Illinois product caught four of four targets for 35 yards, averaging 8.8 yards per reception.

A quarterback to begin his college career, Williams transitioned to pass catcher in 2021, posting 214 receptions for 2,304 yards and 14 touchdowns over three seasons. He still has an uphill battle to win a roster spot, but his outing against the Giants was a great first step.