NFL Preseason Week 1 Recap: Rookie QBs Dazzle, Veterans Make Their Comeback

The 2024 NFL preseason kicked off with a bang, showcasing highly anticipated rookie debuts and the return of key veterans from injury. Week 1 provided fans and analysts alike with their first glimpse of how teams are shaping up for the upcoming season. Let’s dive into the most noteworthy performances and storylines from this exciting opening week.

The spotlight was firmly on the 2024 quarterback class, with several top picks seeing their first NFL action. No debut was more anticipated than that of Chicago Bears’ No. 1 overall pick, Caleb Williams. The former USC star didn’t disappoint, displaying the playmaking ability that made him the consensus top choice.

Williams played 20 snaps over two drives, completing 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards while adding a 13-yard scramble. His poise in the pocket and ability to extend plays drew praise from coaches and analysts. One highlight came on a third-and-long play, where Williams worked through his progressions to find DJ Moore for a crucial 12-yard gain.

“Caleb showed exactly why we drafted him,” Bears head coach Matt Eberflus said. “His football IQ and natural playmaking ability were on full display.”

Washington Commanders’ fans got their first look at second overall pick Jayden Daniels, who made the most of his limited action. Daniels played just one series but left a strong impression, completing 2 of 3 passes for 45 yards and scoring on a 3-yard touchdown run. His awareness was evident when he changed a play at the line of scrimmage, resulting in a 41-yard completion to Dyami Brown.

Other notable rookie QB performances included:

• • J.J. McCarthy (Vikings): 11-of-17 for 188 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT

• • Bo Nix (Broncos): 15-of-21 for 125 yards, 1 TD

• • Drake Maye (Panthers): 2-of-3 for 19 yards in limited action

• • Michael Penix Jr. (Falcons): 9-of-16 for 104 yards

While rookies grabbed headlines, the return of established stars from injury was equally exciting. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow saw his first game action since suffering a season-ending wrist injury in 2023. Burrow played one series, completing 5 of 7 passes for 47 yards and a touchdown pass to Tee Higgins.

Indianapolis Colts’ Anthony Richardson also made his return after missing most of his rookie season. The athletic QB completed 2 of 4 passes for 25 yards in two series, showcasing the mobility that made him a top pick in 2023.

Several of the league’s top quarterbacks made cameo appearances in Week 1. Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes played one series, going 3-for-3 for 31 yards. Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen also saw limited action, completing 2 of 3 passes for 26 yards in his only drive.

“It’s all about getting back into game speed,” Mahomes said. “Even a few plays help shake off the offseason rust.”

Other Noteworthy Performances

• • Jets RB Braelon Allen: The fourth-round pick impressed with 54 yards on 6 carries, potentially securing the backup role behind Breece Hall.

• • Rams QB Stetson Bennett: The 2023 fourth-rounder played the entire game, finishing 24-of-38 for 224 yards, 1 TD, and 4 INTs.

• • Cowboys QB Trey Lance: In his Dallas debut, Lance showed flashes of potential with some good throws and a 19-yard run, but also displayed areas for improvement.

• • Vikings DE Dallas Turner: The first-round pick made his presence felt with two impactful pass rushes, including a key sack.

As teams continue to evaluate talent and solidify depth charts, these preseason performances offer valuable insights into how rosters might shape up for the 2024 season. With two more weeks of exhibition games ahead, coaches and front offices will have plenty of opportunities to assess their personnel before making final roster decisions.

The mix of promising rookie debuts, returning stars, and surprising standouts has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting NFL season. As preseason progresses, all eyes will be on how these early performances translate into regular-season success.