Get comfy on the couch because Week 3 of the NFL preseason nears its close with 10 games on Friday night. It’s a time when positional battles are fought, and players hidden on the depth chart make a name for themselves. As unpredictable as preseason action can be, there’s still betting value to be found. Here’s a look at three of my favorite NFL preseason picks for Friday’s slate.
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Friday’s Best NFL Preseason Picks
(Odds courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook)
Washington Commanders at Baltimore Ravens
The Commanders fell to the Lions 17-13 in Week 2 of the NFL preseason. It was the 21st loss in 29 career preseason contests for head coach Dan Quinn.
Quarterbacks Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota are not expected to suit up on Friday, leaving this game to Sam Hartman and Athan Kaliakmanis. Fans can anticipate a heavy dose of running back Kaytron Allen, who has rushed for 115 yards and one touchdown on 33 carries. Otherwise, many players on the field will be fighting for spots on the practice squad.
The Ravens were a strong preseason team under John Harbaugh, and that has continued under Jesse Minter. Baltimore has dominated on the defensive side of the ball, conceding a minuscule 10 points across two victories.
Quarterback Joe Fagnano has been serviceable, completing 37-of-48 passes for 347 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. The playbook seems to be more and more open for him as his experience develops. That’s a great sign ahead of a clash facing mostly third- and fourth-stringers.
Don’t overthink this one. Trust Baltimore’s defense to stay hot and give the home crowd something to cheer about in a comfortable win.
Pick: Ravens -3.5 (-105)
Atlanta Falcons at Miami Dolphins
It has not been an inspiring preseason for the Dolphins’ offense. Miami has tallied only one scoring possession in each of their two losses. Quarterback Malik Willis has seen limited action, while his backups have failed to find a groove.
The trio of Quinn Ewers, Cam Miller and Mark Gronowski has connected on 12-of-35 passes for 127 yards and three interceptions. To make matters worse, the Dolphins have averaged a pedestrian 3.6 yards per carry. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s system isn’t clicking.
On the other side, the Falcons will be without quarterback Michael Penix Jr. once again as he rehabs a knee injury. Veteran signal-caller Tua Tagovailoa should take some snaps before Jack Strand and Cooper Rush take over.
The backup duo excelled in a 34-6 win over the Colts in Week 2 of the preseason. Atlanta could have another offensive outburst on Friday, and it would still be tough to creep over the total in this game. That’s how dismal Miami has played. I’ll take the under at Hard Rock Stadium.
Overall, there have been fewer than 37 points scored in eight of the Dolphins’ last 13 preseason showdowns.
Pick: Under 36.5 Points (-110)
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys
Intrigue grows in preseason matchups when there is something on the line. Dallas’ Joe Milton and Sam Howell remain in contention for the backup quarterback job.
Milton has had a considerable edge so far, dazzling with 298 total yards and four touchdowns. Howell does have regular-season starts under his belt, though, and could use Friday as an opportunity to regain some ground. Of course, impressive outings from either pro could also lead to a trade. NFL roster cuts are due by Sunday evening.
To say New Orleans’ defense has struggled this preseason would be putting it lightly. The Saints have allowed 58 points over the past two weeks, the highest mark among NFC squads. That includes surrendering five field goals.
Dallas’ Brandon Aubrey is one of the most dangerous kickers in football, racking up the most made field goals of 50+ yards since entering the NFL in 2023 (35). He’s a threat to put one through the uprights anytime the Cowboys cross midfield.
Team totals can be tricky, so I’ll pivot to relying on Aubrey’s leg. Milton and Howell have proven they can efficiently guide Dallas to a high-scoring performance.
Pick: Cowboys Over 1.5 Field Goals (-105)
