First impressions matter a lot, and the 2024 NFL Season Initial Impressions are no different. Week 1 can set the tone for the whole season, but keep in mind that early results might not always be accurate. For example, the Cincinnati Bengals might not be as bad as they looked against the New England Patriots.
Sunday was packed with exciting firsts: the greatest player ever made his debut as a commentator, a major rule change got its first real test, eight new head coaches began their journeys, and three first-round quarterbacks took the field as starters.
Here’s A Rundown Of The 2024 NFL Season’s Initial Impressions After Sunday’s Action
Dynamic Kickoff Debut
The new dynamic kickoff has made a solid start. Despite 70 percent of kickoffs being returned during the preseason, the true impact of the new rule—aimed at improving the historically low 22 percent return rate from last season—was uncertain. Coaches kept their strategies under wraps, and some questioned if the touchback penalty on the 30-yard line was enough to discourage kickoffs from reaching the end zone.
However, Week 1 showed promising results with several notable returns. DeeJay Dallas of the Arizona Cardinals scored the first dynamic kickoff return touchdown, taking a Bills kickoff 96 yards to the end zone in the fourth quarter. Brandon Codrington of the Bills and DeAndre Carter of the Bears also had impressive returns, with 53 and 67 yards, respectively. Although it’s early days, and coaches will likely adjust their tactics, the games suggest we might see more returns this season. The Titans-Bears game had ten kickoffs and three touchbacks, while the Cardinals-Bills game featured 13 kickoffs and seven touchbacks.
New Head Coaches’ Debut
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Sunday saw eight new head coaches take the field, with a mixed bag of results—three wins and five losses. Jerod Mayo of the New England Patriots had the most impressive debut, leading his team to a 16-10 road victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Rhamondre Stevenson led the Patriots’ offense with 120 rushing yards, while the defense made a significant impact by sacking Joe Burrow three times and limiting him to 164 passing yards. Despite the Bengals missing Tee Higgins and a limited Ja’Marr Chase, the Patriots played to their strengths: strong defense, effective special teams, and a reliance on the running game. Mayo’s performance earned him a well-deserved Gatorade bath, though the Patriots still need more dynamic offensive playmakers.
Jim Harbaugh’s Coaching Debut
Jim Harbaugh’s highly anticipated debut with the Chargers started off rough. Against the Raiders, the Chargers’ offense struggled in the first half, averaging just 3.6 yards per play and committing five penalties, including four false starts. J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards combined for only 12 rushing yards. However, the second half showed a clearer picture of Harbaugh’s strategy, focusing heavily on the running game.
Dobbins finished with ten rushes for 135 yards and a touchdown, contributing to the Chargers’ 176 rushing yards overall. Justin Herbert attempted only 26 passes, totaling 144 yards, as the offense shifted towards a more run-focused approach. While Harbaugh’s style might not boost Herbert’s stats, it aligns with Harbaugh’s reputation for strong line play, which should benefit the Chargers’ overall performance. Harbaugh’s record stands at 45-19-1 as an NFL head coach.
Veteran Players In New Teams
Several veteran players made headlines in new roles with mixed results. Kirk Cousins, the offseason’s biggest free-agent signing, had a disappointing debut for the Falcons. He completed just 16 passes for 155 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, including a crucial pick late in the fourth quarter as the Falcons trailed the Steelers. Coming off an Achilles tear, Cousins appeared rusty and made questionable decisions under pressure.
On the other hand, Sam Darnold, now with the Vikings, showed impressive performance. Starting in place of the injured rookie J.J. McCarthy, Darnold completed 19 of 24 passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns. He demonstrated confidence and command, including a 44-yard completion to Justin Jefferson. Darnold’s strong showing could help the Vikings stay competitive in the NFC North and potentially earn him a starting role elsewhere next season.
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Rookie Quarterbacks’ Struggles
The rookie quarterbacks had a challenging start. Caleb Williams, the first overall pick, had a rough game with a 48 percent completion rate, 93 passing yards, and no touchdowns. His performance, alongside the Bears’ limited offense, showed he was uncomfortable and struggled to make an impact. Jayden Daniels, the second overall pick, contributed more with his legs than his arm, running for two one-yard touchdowns and totaling 88 rushing yards.
He completed 17 passes for 184 yards but struggled to extend drives, converting only two of eight third-down attempts. Bo Nix, picked 12th overall, had two interceptions on careless throws, leading to a hole that his late touchdown run couldn’t overcome. He finished with 138 passing yards in the Broncos’ loss to Seattle. These early struggles remind us that rookie quarterbacks often face growing pains, making the Patriots’ choice to sit Drake Maye and start Jacoby Brissett more understandable.
Top Rookie Receivers’ Quiet Debuts
The top rookie receivers also had subdued performances, hampered by their teams’ overall dysfunction. Marvin Harrison Jr. of the Cardinals was barely involved, with just one catch for 4 yards on three targets, as the offense stalled against the Bills. Malik Nabers of the Giants had a slightly better game, with five receptions for 66 yards, including a 25-yard catch. Rome Odunze of the Bears managed only one catch for 11 yards on four targets. Brian Thomas Jr. of the Jaguars stood out with a touchdown on one of his four receptions. His score highlighted that even top receivers struggle to shine when quarterbacks and team operations are struggling.
Tom Brady’s Broadcast Debut
Brady made his long-awaited broadcast debut with Fox Sports during the Dallas Cowboys-Cleveland Browns game. Brady brought significant star power to the role, analyzing defensive plays and quarterback responses with insight. He notably pointed out Micah Parsons’ impact on the game just before Parsons tipped a pass, leading to an interception. While Brady appeared nervous at times, and the game was one-sided, his dedication to mastering the role is evident. Given his 25-year career and relentless drive, Brady is expected to become highly skilled in his new role.
