The NFL preseason is pretty much over for a majority of starters and proven commodities in the league, but one final game remains for those looking to still punch their ticket onto a roster when the season begins on September 7.
MORE: Week 1 D2 Standouts | Week 2 D2 Standouts
While we don't have any clarification yet as to whom may be in line for roster spots of those on the bubble, we can say for sure that some players had big games during the third week of play, generally considered to be the most like a regular season contest as far as game-planning and playing time.
Take a look at some of the D2 Football alumni that stood out in preseason action this past week, helping to stake even more claim to a potential roster spot. Just four days remain until cutdowns begin, so this is now or never for these players as they try to hold on to their dreams.
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Terrell Watson, RB — Pittsburgh Steelers
After not seeing any time on the field during the Steelers' second preseason game, Watson rebounded with a big effort as he totaled 82 yards on 12 touches.
The former Azusa Pacific superstar has basically locked down a practice squad spot but may still have a fighting chance to make the final roster if he continues to shine in the finale against Carolina.
Favorite for the third running back spot Knile Davis has been lackluster, but provides more special teams value than Watson can. But if a big performance comes in week four, Mike Tomlin and staff may be forced to keep "Nightmare" because he proved his way onto the team.
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Devante Bausby, DB — Kansas City Chiefs
A second-year player from Pittsburg State, Bausby has not made a huge impact in his time in the league, only playing in four games with the Bears last season.
But during the preseason for Kansas City, Bausby has been able to flash some skills as a pass defender, grabbing his first interception of the exhibition slate against the Seahawks' Trevone Boykin. Bausby came out of nowhere to grab the ball, making a diving stab right in front of the receiver (check out the highlight in the header video).
While the cornerback position seems to be set for the Chiefs, Bausby could be showing enough to be picked up by another team in need of some depth and willing to mold a potential piece. If anything, a practice squad spot seems likely for the former Gorilla standout.
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Adam Thielen, WR — Minnesota Vikings
There is really no question if Thielen will make the Vikings' roster, but after missing the first two weeks of the preseason it was good for the former Minnesota State product to get out on the field and show he is still a favorite target for Sam Bradford.
Catching five passes for 50 yards, Thielen hauled in 28 yards on one catch alone as one of the lone bright spots for a paltry Vikings offense in the first half.
Unlikely to see the fourth-year player again this preseason, it was reassuring to see that Thielen is indeed still a big part of the Minnesota offense.
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Austin Ekeler, RB — Los Angeles Chargers
Ekeler finally got a carry for the Chargers this preseason, and made the most of his opportunity with 37 yards on 7 carries against the Rams.
An undrafted rookie from Western State, Ekeler has been regarded in some circles as the best UDFA the Chargers brought in, but he barely saw any playing time through the first two weeks of exhibition play, totaling two catches for 14 yards.
While it may be a little late for the former All-American to do much on the roster, a practice squad spot is still in the line of sight for one of the best rushers among any division in the NCAA over the last two seasons.
