NFL Preseason Week 1 Takeaways

Key Findings From the Opening Weekend of NFL Action

Impressive Performances from Rookie Quarterbacks

Several rookie quarterbacks showcased their potential in Week 1 of the preseason. Kenny Pickett of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Desmond Ridder of the Atlanta Falcons both led their teams to impressive victories, displaying poise and accuracy in their first NFL action. Pickett completed 13 of 15 passes for 93 yards and a touchdown, while Ridder went 10 of 17 for 103 yards and a touchdown.

Other rookie quarterbacks who impressed include Bailey Zappe of the New England Patriots and Malik Willis of the Tennessee Titans. Zappe completed all five of his passes for 65 yards and a touchdown, while Willis ran for a touchdown in addition to completing 6 of 11 passes for 55 yards.

Struggles for Some Veteran Quarterbacks

While some rookie quarterbacks impressed, several veteran quarterbacks faced challenges in Week 1 of the preseason. Russell Wilson of the Denver Broncos completed just 3 of 11 passes for 29 yards, raising concerns about his chemistry with his new team.

Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers also struggled in his first preseason action since 2018, completing 5 of 10 passes for 44 yards. Rodgers' performance was not helped by a lack of protection from his offensive line, which allowed two sacks.

Injuries Cast a Shadow on the Preseason

Several key players suffered injuries in Week 1 of the preseason, casting a shadow over the opening weekend of action. Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Laviska Shenault suffered a hamstring injury that is expected to sideline him for multiple weeks.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Giovani Bernard suffered a season-ending knee injury, while Carolina Panthers wide receiver Robbie Anderson injured his ankle. These injuries are a reminder of the risks involved in preseason football.

Teams With Something to Prove

Several teams entered the preseason with something to prove, and they made statements in Week 1. The Detroit Lions, who have not won a playoff game since 1991, defeated the Atlanta Falcons 27-23. The Lions' victory was led by a strong performance from their defense, which forced three turnovers.

The New York Jets, who have not had a winning season since 2015, also impressed in Week 1, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles 24-21. The Jets' victory was fueled by a strong running game, led by Breece Hall's 51 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Takeaways for the Regular Season

While the preseason is not a perfect predictor of regular season success, it can provide some insights into what we can expect in the upcoming weeks. The performances of rookie quarterbacks will be closely watched, as they look to establish themselves in the NFL.

The struggles of some veteran quarterbacks are also a concern, as they try to adjust to new teams or new offensive schemes. And the injuries suffered by key players are a reminder that the preseason can be a dangerous time for NFL players.