Overview: The NFL’s Week 1 preseason tripleheader brought optimism, concern, and standout individual efforts across three matchups: Colts vs. Ravens, Bengals vs. Eagles, and Raiders vs. Seahawks. Here’s what jumped off the tape.
1. Quarterback Battles and Injury Concerns Take Center Stage
Anthony Richardson exited after just eight minutes with a dislocated pinkie in his right hand while facing the Ravens. While team officials labeled it “day-to-day,” this early scare adds another chapter to his brief injury-plagued tenure. The Colts’ QB competition is heating up, with Richardson’s fragile status giving more weight to Daniel Jones, who logged a solid 144 yards passing after stepping in.
2. Rookies Steal the Spotlight in Key Moments
Ravens rookie LaJohntay Wester electrified the game with an 87-yard punt return touchdown, instantly improving a unit that ranked in the middle of the league last year. In Las Vegas versus Seattle, Raiders rookie Jalan Gaines made a season-altering impact—his blocked 55-yard field goal sealed a 23–23 tie and underscored his clutch potential.
3. Eagles’ Offense Fires on All Cylinders
Backup quarterback Tanner McKee had a breakout performance, completing 20 of 25 passes for 252 yards and three first-half touchdowns. He also executed a “tush push” TD, showing poise reminiscent of a top QB. His performance strongly reinforced his status as Jalen Hurts’ top backup. Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase flashed their dominance, reuniting on offense after limited preseason exposure since 2021. Burrow went 9 of 10 for 123 yards and two scores, while Chase caught all four targets for 77 yards and a touchdown—impressive, even if one score was wiped due to penalty.
4. Secondary Injuries Cast a Shadow
Ravens rookie CB Bilhal Kone exited early with a serious leg injury, raising concerns about depth in the secondary moving forward.
Final Thoughts
This preseason opener offered a mix of promise and caution. Richardson’s injury could complicate the Colts’ QB picture, while McKee and Wester may have jockeyed themselves into early-season relevance. Rookie defensive plays like Gaines’ block and Wester’s return bring excitement, but the question mark around Baltimore’s secondary depth remains.
Fans and analysts alike have plenty to digest—plenty of storylines to track as the regular season nears.
