The 2024 NFL season started with a rollercoaster of emotions, as 16 teams faced the sting of defeat right out of the gate.
Some losses were close and painful (Indianapolis Colts and Los Angeles Rams), while others were outright disappointing (Carolina Panthers and New York Giants). Despite the setbacks, it’s a long season, with teams having multiple opportunities to bounce back, aim for playoff spots, or, for some, struggle and position themselves for top draft picks.
Reacting to the Week 1 losses:
Baltimore Ravens
- Result: Lost 27-20 to Kansas City Chiefs.
- Reaction: Relax. Despite the loss, the Ravens showed potential and are likely to rebound against the Raiders, maintaining strong playoff prospects.
Cincinnati Bengals
- Result: Lost 16-10 to New England Patriots.
- Reaction: Relax. Despite early struggles due to distractions and injuries, the Bengals have a history of bouncing back and contending.
Indianapolis Colts
- Result: Lost 29-27 to Houston Texans.
- Reaction: Be encouraged. Second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson showed promise, indicating a bright future despite the narrow loss.
Atlanta Falcons
- Result: Lost 18-10 to Pittsburgh Steelers.
- Reaction: Reserve judgment. Raheem Morris’ debut was tough, but the defense held strong, and there’s potential for improvement.
Arizona Cardinals
- Result: Lost 34-28 to Buffalo Bills.
- Reaction: Reserve judgment. Bright early moments faded, but patience is needed as the team rebuilds and aims for midseason improvement.
Denver Broncos
- Result: Lost 26-20 to Seattle Seahawks.
- Reaction: Reserve judgment. Rookie Bo Nix needs time to develop and support from teammates for better performances ahead.
Jacksonville Jaguars
- Result: Lost 20-17 to Miami Dolphins.
- Reaction: Reserve judgment. Despite a blown lead, there’s potential, but quarterback Trevor Lawrence needs to step up soon.
Tennessee Titans
- Result: Lost 24-17 to Chicago Bears.
- Reaction: Temper expectations. Despite a strong start, ball security issues from QB Will Levis could hinder their progress.
Carolina Panthers
- Result: Lost 47-10 to New Orleans Saints.
- Reaction: Worry. Bryce Young’s struggles are concerning, indicating no quick fix for the Panthers.
Cleveland Browns
- Result: Lost 33-17 to Dallas Cowboys.
- Reaction: Worry. Deshaun Watson’s poor performance raises questions about his future and the team’s direction.
Green Bay Packers
- Result: Lost 34-29 to Philadelphia Eagles.
- Reaction: Worry. Jordan Love’s injury forces reliance on unproven Malik Willis, creating uncertainty.
Las Vegas Raiders
- Result: Lost 22-10 to Los Angeles Chargers.
- Reaction: Worry. Antonio Pierce’s official debut as head coach was disappointing, with both the offense and defense underperforming.
Los Angeles Rams
- Result: Lost 26-20 (OT) to Detroit Lions.
- Reaction: Worry. Injuries are piling up, threatening their season even as they show resilience.
New York Giants
- Result: Lost 28-6 to Minnesota Vikings.
- Reaction: Worry. Daniel Jones continues to struggle, sparking questions about his future as the starting quarterback.
New York Jets
- Result: Lost 32-19 to San Francisco 49ers.
- Reaction: Worry. The defense’s poor showing against a familiar opponent raises concerns about their Super Bowl aspirations.
Washington Commanders
- Result: Lost 37-20 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- Reaction: Worry. Despite some promising offensive moments, defensive struggles persist, suggesting a tough rebuilding process ahead.