The San Francisco 49ers concluded a thrilling Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season with a Monday Night Football victory over the New York Jets. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens narrowly missed out against the Kansas City Chiefs, while the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys each secured impressive wins. With much having transpired since our preseason rankings, it’s time to reassess the NFL landscape as we head into Week 2. Alongside our updated rankings, we’ve spotlighted a standout rookie, new coach, or offseason addition from each team who delivered a noteworthy performance. This includes New England Patriots’ Jerod Mayo and Seattle Seahawks’ Mike Macdonald earning their first career head coaching victories, and rookies making significant impacts.
Here’s how all 32 teams stack up heading into Week 2, as assessed by our panel of over 80 writers, editors, and TV personalities.
1. Kansas City Chiefs
Preseason Ranking: 1
Best Newcomer Performance: WR Xavier Worthy
Xavier Worthy made an immediate impact for the Chiefs. The rookie wide receiver delivered two significant plays: a 20-yard touchdown on an end-around and another touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. His presence was felt throughout, contributing to the Chiefs’ three pass plays over 30 yards and three others over 20 yards. — Adam Teicher
2. San Francisco 49ers
Preseason Ranking: 3
Best Newcomer Performance: DE Leonard Floyd
Leonard Floyd’s addition proved valuable for the 49ers. In his debut, Floyd recorded two tackles, a sack, a tackle for loss, and a pressure leading to an interception against Jets QB Aaron Rodgers. His performance showcased why he was brought in to complement DE Nick Bosa. — Nick Wagoner
3. Detroit Lions
Preseason Ranking: 4
Best Newcomer Performance: DB Terrion Arnold
In his NFL debut, Terrion Arnold recorded eight tackles in Detroit’s overtime win against the Rams. Arnold played 97% of the snaps and handled veteran QB Matthew Stafford and a potent Rams offense well. Coach Dan Campbell noted that while Arnold has areas to improve, his debut was promising. — Eric Woodyard
4. Baltimore Ravens
Preseason Ranking: 2
Best Newcomer Performance: RB Derrick Henry
Although the Ravens’ newcomers had limited contributions, Derrick Henry showed promise. He rushed for 17 yards and a touchdown on the opening drive but was less effective later as the team shifted focus to catch up with the Chiefs. Henry could see more action in Week 2 against the Raiders. — Jamison Hensley
5. Philadelphia Eagles
Preseason Ranking: 5
Best Newcomer Performance: RB Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley had a standout performance in Brazil, rushing for over 100 yards and scoring three times against the Packers. He became only the second player in franchise history to score three touchdowns in his first game, following Terrell Owens. — Tim McManus
6. Houston Texans
Preseason Ranking: 6
Best Newcomer Performance: RB Joe Mixon
Joe Mixon’s debut for the Texans was stellar, with 159 rushing yards and a touchdown. His performance was particularly impressive given the different defensive fronts he faced. Mixon played a crucial role in keeping the Texans’ offense steady as QB C.J. Stroud found his rhythm. — DJ Bien-Aime
7. Dallas Cowboys
Preseason Ranking: 11
Best Newcomer Performance: LB DeMarvion Overshown
DeMarvion Overshown made a significant impact in the Cowboys’ win. Despite missing his rookie season due to an ACL injury, Overshown recorded nine tackles, a sack, and two quarterback hits. His speed and energy were evident, particularly on his sack of Browns QB Deshaun Watson. — Todd Archer
8. Buffalo Bills
Preseason Ranking: 7
Best Newcomer Performance: DC Bobby Babich
In his first game as an NFL playcaller, Bobby Babich made crucial adjustments after a tough start. Despite losing nickel corner Taron Johnson early, Babich’s defense tightened up, limiting the Cardinals to no offensive touchdowns in the second half. — Alaina Getzenberg
9. Miami Dolphins
Preseason Ranking: 8
Best Newcomer Performance: DC Anthony Weaver
Anthony Weaver’s defensive scheme led to a strong second-half performance against the Jaguars. The Dolphins’ defense shut out Jacksonville in the second half, forcing several three-and-outs and showcasing Weaver’s effective coaching. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
10. Los Angeles Rams
Preseason Ranking: 13
Best Newcomer Performance: LB Jared Verse
Jared Verse made a notable debut with his first NFL sack and a 33% pass rush win rate. His ability to disrupt plays was essential for the Rams, especially as they look to replace Aaron Donald’s production. — Sarah Barshop
11. Pittsburgh Steelers
Preseason Ranking: 16
Best Newcomer Performance: DB DeShon Elliott
DeShon Elliott made his mark with an interception and two passes defended. His pick came early in the game, setting the tone for the Steelers’ defensive performance. Elliott’s playmaking was a key factor in supporting a developing offense. — Brooke Pryor
12. Green Bay Packers
Preseason Ranking: 10
Best Newcomer Performance: S Xavier McKinney
Xavier McKinney, a significant offseason acquisition, made an impact with an interception in his first game. Despite defensive miscues, McKinney’s play was a highlight in a game that saw the Packers improve their turnover numbers from last season. — Rob Demovsky
13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Preseason Ranking: 21
Best Newcomer Performance: OC Liam Coen
Liam Coen’s offensive strategy resulted in the Buccaneers scoring 37 points, the second-highest total in Week 1. Under his guidance, QB Baker Mayfield threw for four touchdowns, and the previously struggling rushing attack showed improvement. — Jenna Laine
14. Cincinnati Bengals
Preseason Ranking: 9
Best Newcomer Performance: RB Zack Moss
In a tough game for the Bengals, Zack Moss stood out by scoring their only touchdown. He played a significant role with nine carries for 44 yards, proving his worth as a versatile back in a key role for Cincinnati. — Ben Baby
15. New York Jets
Preseason Ranking: 15
Best Newcomer Performance: QB Tyrod Taylor
Tyrod Taylor impressed as a backup, leading a 12-play, 70-yard touchdown drive after replacing Aaron Rodgers. Despite the Jets’ loss, Taylor’s performance was a rare positive highlight in an otherwise disappointing game. — Rich Cimini
16. Jacksonville Jaguars
Preseason Ranking: 14
Best Newcomer Performance: WR Brian Thomas Jr.
Brian Thomas Jr. had a promising debut with four catches for 47 yards and a touchdown. His touchdown reception and penalty drawn for a big gain were significant contributions despite the Jaguars’ overall performance. — Michael DiRocco
17. Los Angeles Chargers
Preseason Ranking: 20
Best Newcomer Performance: RB J.K. Dobbins
J.K. Dobbins made an immediate impact with 135 rushing yards and a touchdown. His long runs were crucial for the Chargers’ offense, despite being caught from behind on a couple of occasions. Dobbins’ performance suggests he’ll be a key player moving forward. — Kris Rhim
18. Chicago Bears
Preseason Ranking: 17
Best Newcomer Performance: S Jonathan Owens
Jonathan Owens provided a crucial spark with a 21-yard touchdown off a blocked punt. This play helped ignite a 21-point scoring run for the Bears, even as their offense struggled. Owens’ special teams play was a highlight for the Bears. — Courtney Cronin
19. Seattle Seahawks
Preseason Ranking: 22
Best Newcomer Performance: HC Mike Macdonald
Mike Macdonald led the Seahawks to a win in his coaching debut. His defensive game plan effectively neutralized Broncos’ rookie QB Bo Nix, resulting in two interceptions and a solid overall defensive performance. — Brady Henderson
20. Indianapolis Colts
Preseason Ranking: 18
Best Newcomer Performance: WR Adonai Mitchell
Adonai Mitchell showed promise despite limited opportunities. His route running drew a pass interference penalty and he demonstrated potential with his ability to get open, hinting at a promising future with the Colts. — Stephen Holder
21. Cleveland Browns
Preseason Ranking: 12
Best Newcomer Performance: WR Jerry Jeudy
Jerry Jeudy managed a touchdown catch in a disappointing debut for the Browns’ offense. Despite the team’s struggles, Jeudy’s reception was a bright spot and offers hope for better chemistry with QB Deshaun Watson. — Daniel Oyefusi
22. Minnesota Vikings
Preseason Ranking: 23
Best Newcomer Performance: QB Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold had a strong start for the Vikings, completing 15 of 17 passes with an impressive QBR. His deep throw to Justin Jefferson showcased a developing trust between the two, signaling positive developments for the Vikings. — Kevin Seifert
23. New Orleans Saints
Preseason Ranking: 25
Top Newcomer Performance: S Will Harris
Will Harris, a new addition via free agency, made an immediate impact by intercepting Panthers QB Bryce Young on his very first pass attempt. This set the tone for the Saints’ defense, which limited Carolina to just 10 points, recording five quarterback hits and four sacks. Harris ended the game with two tackles and one pass breakup. “Will has impressed us greatly this spring. He’s a smart, versatile player who can excel at multiple positions,” noted safety Tyrann Mathieu. — Katherine Terrell
24. New England Patriots
Preseason Ranking: 30
Top Newcomer Performance: HC Jerod Mayo
In his debut as head coach, Jerod Mayo had his team well-prepared for their matchup in Cincinnati. Veteran QB Jacoby Brissett praised Mayo’s rigorous training camp, describing it as one of the toughest he’s experienced. Mayo emphasized conditioning and control at the line of scrimmage, leading to a dominant performance featuring 39 rushing attempts, two forced fumbles, and a critical fourth-down stop. Mayo celebrated his debut with a Gatorade bath and a game ball from owner Robert Kraft. — Mike Reiss
25. Atlanta Falcons
Preseason Ranking: 19
Top Newcomer Performance: Edge Matthew Judon
Matthew Judon stood out for the Falcons in their clash against the Steelers, showcasing his prowess despite having only joined the team three weeks prior. Judon recorded half a sack, two quarterback pressures, and five tackles. This performance is especially notable given his return from a torn bicep injury that ended his 2023 season. The Falcons have been in search of a double-digit sack leader since Vic Beasley’s tenure, and Judon might be the solution. — Marc Raimondi
26. Arizona Cardinals
Preseason Ranking: 29
Top Newcomer Performance: RB DeeJay Dallas
DeeJay Dallas made a historic impact with a 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Cardinals’ loss to the Bills. This marked the first-ever touchdown return in the NFL’s new dynamic kickoff format. Dallas, who joined Arizona this offseason, also recorded three kickoff returns for a total of 123 yards and a touchdown. — Josh Weinfuss
27. Tennessee Titans
Preseason Ranking: 24
Top Newcomer Performance: DL T’Vondre Sweat
Though T’Vondre Sweat didn’t register any stats on the box score, his presence was felt on the field. “He made significant contributions in both the run and pass game,” Titans coach Brian Callahan stated. “He’s been consistently improving since his arrival.” Sweat played 67% of Tennessee’s defensive snaps, dispelling any concerns about his conditioning. — Turron Davenport
28. Las Vegas Raiders
Preseason Ranking: 27
Top Newcomer Performance: TE Brock Bowers
Brock Bowers, the No. 13 draft pick, had a strong showing despite not starting in the Raiders’ loss to the Chargers. Bowers led the team with eight targets and six receptions for 58 yards. After missing the last two weeks of preseason due to a foot injury, he played 68% of offensive snaps. His performance is expected to improve as he settles into his role with the Raiders. — Paul Gutierrez
29. Washington Commanders
Preseason Ranking: 28
Top Newcomer Performance: QB Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels demonstrated potential despite some missed opportunities for big plays. He opted to run or look elsewhere rather than taking deep shots, but he did show his ability to make an impact with his legs, rushing for 88 yards on 16 carries and passing for 184 yards. As he gains more experience against NFL defenses, expect his playmaking ability to develop further. — John Keim
30. Denver Broncos
Preseason Ranking: 31
Top Newcomer Performance: S Brandon Jones
In Denver’s loss to the Seahawks, Brandon Jones was notable for his defensive activity, registering six tackles. As part of a new safety duo alongside P.J. Locke, Jones is replacing last season’s veteran pair, Kareem Jackson and Justin Simmons. Given his status as the Broncos’ top free agent signing, Jones is expected to play a significant and versatile role. — Jeff Legwold
31. New York Giants
Preseason Ranking: 26
Top Newcomer Performance: CB Dru Phillips
Despite a challenging Week 1, Dru Phillips emerged as a bright spot for the Giants. The third-round pick recorded four tackles, one for a loss, and forced a fumble during his debut game, all in just 15 defensive snaps. His physical play was evident, reflecting the attributes the Giants valued when drafting him from Kentucky. — Jordan Raanan
32. Carolina Panthers
Preseason Ranking: 32
Top Newcomer Performance: WR Xavier Legette
In a tough 47-10 defeat to the Saints, Xavier Legette, the first-round pick, was one of the few positives for the Panthers. Although he was initially positioned as the team’s No. 4 wide receiver during training camp, Legette led the team with four receptions for 35 yards. His ability to get open for QB Bryce Young was a small but encouraging sign in an otherwise dismal game. — David Newton