Top 5: NFL preseason causes for alarm

Published August 31, 2010 4:00am ET



Yes, it’s only the preseason, but there are some alarming trends that teams hope won’t carry over when the games count.

5. Colts defense » No need to worry about Peyton Manning, but Indy has allowed 130 points (43.3 per game) in three preseason games — 46 more than any other team.

4. Bengals receiving corps » The circus has come to Cincinnati. If it wasn’t enough to team up Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens, the Bengals cut their highest-paid receiver, Antonio Bryant, despite having to pay the wideout $8 million before he even took a regular season snap with the team.

3. Revis on an island » How long will the NFL’s top cornerback hold out? Darrelle Revis was the reason the Jets were able to be so aggressive on defense last season. If New York is without its lockdown corner, it may affect how often the Jets blitz.

2. Worst show on grass » The Bears hired Mike Martz to revitalize Chicago’s offense, but the team has only mustered 36 points in three preseason games. Luckily they open the regular season against the Lions. If Jay Cutler & Co. struggle on Sept. 12 it may be time to panic.

1. Sexy time » The Redskins got Donovan McNabb knowing he has played a full season only once in the past six years. Now, Rex Grossman may have to start Week 1 due to McNabb’s ankle sprain. How long will Washington have to rely on Sexy Rexy?