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NFL Week 1: Every Team's Biggest Disappointment
7 Sep
Summary
- Several promising rookies and seasoned veterans are predicted to underperform in Week 1.
- Matchups against elite defenses and historical performance trends are key factors.
- Fan bases are bracing for early-season letdowns from key players.
The NFL's opening week is anticipated to bring early disappointments for fan bases across the league, with specific players from each team highlighted as potential underperformers. Rookies like the Seahawks' Jadarian Price and the 49ers' Carver Willis are expected to face significant challenges in their debuts against formidable opponents.
Veteran players are also in the spotlight, with concerns raised about Aaron Donald's return to full speed and Orlando Brown Jr.'s penalty and sack issues for the Bengals. Similarly, players like A.J. Brown of the Patriots face elite secondaries, while others like Quincy Riley and Avonte Maddox are set to be tested in new or expanded roles.
As teams strategize for Week 1, the article points to potential struggles for players like JC Latham of the Titans due to his penalty and sack history, and Chidobe Awuzie of the Ravens facing better-prepared opponents. The Indianapolis Colts' Akeem Davis-Gaither and Atlanta Falcons' Mike Hughes are also flagged for difficult matchups against Lamar Jackson and Aaron Rodgers, respectively.
Further predictions include potential struggles for the Steelers' Spencer Anderson against a reshaped Falcons defense, and the Bears' Garrett Bradbury facing tough interior linemen. The Panthers' Monroe Freeling and Browns' Zion Johnson are identified as potentially vulnerable linemen facing strong pass rushers and new line configurations. Running backs Bhayshul Tuten (Jaguars) and David Montgomery (Texans) are scrutinized for workload capacity and age, respectively.
Additional offensive line concerns are raised for the Bills' Alec Anderson, Packers' Aaron Banks facing a blitz-heavy defense, and Vikings' Blake Brandel dealing with snapping issues. The Dolphins' Jonah Savaiinaea and Raiders' Darien Porter are noted for past performance metrics indicating potential struggles. Commanders' Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Eagles' Makai Lemon face questions about explosiveness and separation, respectively.
Defensive players like Darius Robinson (Cardinals) and Kayode Awosika (Chargers) are set for tough Week 1 tests. The Giants' Odell Beckham Jr. faces skepticism regarding his impact after a year off, and the Broncos' Ben Powers will confront Chris Jones. Finally, the Chiefs' Jaylon Moore is questioned for his contract versus performance metrics as he protects Patrick Mahomes.