Colts' Anthony Richardson Headlines Final Preseason Tune-Ups; Titans Eye 25 Snaps for Starters

The 2026 NFL preseason reaches its dramatic conclusion on Saturday, August 29, with just four teams taking the field before the regular season kicks off on Wednesday, September 9. As franchises finalize their 53-man rosters—with cuts due by Sunday at 6 p.m. ET—the spotlight falls on the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans, who are using these final snaps to sharpen their units and settle key position battles. Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, here's the full breakdown of who's playing, who's sitting, and what's at stake in this final dress rehearsal.

Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson Gets the Start

Colts head coach Shane Steichen has confirmed that quarterback Anthony Richardson will start and play the entire first quarter, with Riley Leonard taking the second quarter and Easton Stick handling the entire second half. This rotation gives Richardson valuable reps with the first-team offense, though running back Jonathan Taylor will be held out, preserving the star back for the regular season. The No. 1 unit is expected to log 8-12 plays, a brief but crucial tune-up for Richardson, who is looking to build on his dynamic but injury-plagued early career. Also expected to see action are wide receiver Keenan Allen and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, both of whom will help set the tone for a Colts squad with playoff aspirations.

Detroit Lions: Backup QB Battle Heats Up

Across the field, the Detroit Lions are using this game to settle their backup quarterback competition behind starter Jared Goff, who is resting along with running back Jahmyr Gibbs. The battle between Luke Altmyer and Josh Dobbs will reach its climax, with Altmyer having taken more reps during training camp and entering the game with a slight edge. This final audition will be pivotal in determining who secures the No. 2 role—a position of heightened importance given Goff's recent injury history. The Lions' coaching staff will be scrutinizing every throw, decision, and leadership moment from both signal-callers.

Tennessee Titans: Starters Set for Extended Run

Meanwhile, in Nashville, Titans head coach Robert Saleh has announced that his starters will play between 25-30 snaps—a substantial workload for a preseason finale, indicating the coaching staff's desire to build rhythm and cohesion before the regular season. Quarterback Cam Ward will lead the offense, with wide receiver Carnell Tate and running back Tony Pollard also expected to see significant action. This extended playing time will be crucial for Ward, a rookie signal-caller who is still developing chemistry with his new teammates. The Titans are also monitoring the health of wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson, who is confirmed out, adding to the team's need for other receivers to step up.

Chicago Bears: Running Back Battle Reaches Finale

The Chicago Bears will be watching closely from their sideline as they finalize their own roster decisions. The running back competition between Roschon Johnson and Salvon Ahmed remains unresolved, with the winner expected to slot behind D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai on the depth chart. Both players will get their final chance to impress the coaching staff, with the decision likely coming down to pass protection, special teams value, and consistency in the run game. As highlighted on Vulius, this battle epitomizes the final-day roster drama that defines the end of the preseason.

With the regular season just days away, every snap, every throw, and every tackle carries weight. The Vulius NFL Analysis Desk will continue to provide comprehensive coverage as teams finalize their rosters and prepare for the opening week. Stay tuned for in-depth analysis, player spotlights, and fantasy football insights throughout the 2026 season.