Ryan Clark and the “Get Up” team have expressed their admiration for Patrick Mahomes following the Kansas City Chiefs’ 27-20 victory over the Baltimore Ravens.
The San Francisco 49ers concluded an exhilarating first weekend of the 2024 NFL season with a win against the New York Jets during “Monday Night Football.” The Ravens narrowly fell to the Chiefs, while notable victories were claimed by the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys. With significant changes since the Preseason Power Rankings, it’s time to reevaluate the standings of all 32 teams before Week 2.
Our rankings include insights from NFL Nation reporters who highlighted standout newcomers, defined as rookies, new coaches, or offseason signings, who made an impressive debut. From Jerod Mayo of the New England Patriots and Mike Macdonald of the Seattle Seahawks celebrating their first head coaching wins, to rookies making key contributions, we have identified 32 players and coaches who excelled in their first outings.
Starting with the top-ranked team, our panel of over 80 writers, editors, and TV personalities has assessed and ranked the NFL teams from 1 to 32.
Preseason ranking: 1
Best newcomer performance: WR Xavier Worthy
Worthy showcased immense potential as a first-round draft choice, achieving two plays over 20 yards, including a touchdown on an end-around and another touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. The Chiefs’ offensive strategy benefited from his presence on the field.
Preseason ranking: 3
Best newcomer performance: DE Leonard Floyd
Floyd was brought in to support DE Nick Bosa, and his performance against the Jets included two tackles, a sack, and a play that resulted in an interception.
Preseason ranking: 4
Best newcomer performance: DB Terrion Arnold
In his debut, Arnold recorded eight total tackles in Detroit’s overtime win against the Rams and demonstrated readiness against experienced opponents.
Preseason ranking: 2
Best newcomer performance: RB Derrick Henry
Henry started strong on the opening drive for the Ravens but didn’t receive as many touches as the game progressed, potentially changing in Week 2 against the Raiders.
Preseason ranking: 5
Best newcomer performance: RB Saquon Barkley
Barkley dominated in Brazil with over 100 rushing yards and three touchdowns against the Packers, making an impressive debut.
Preseason ranking: 6
Best newcomer performance: RB Joe Mixon
Mixon had a standout performance with 159 rushing yards and a touchdown, proving to be a crucial asset for the Bengals in their win.
Preseason ranking: 11
Best newcomer performance: LB DeMarvion Overshown
Overshown made a significant comeback after injury, contributing greatly to the Dallas defense.
Preseason ranking: 7
Best newcomer performance: DC Bobby Babich
Babich’s defensive adjustments led to effective play in the second half, resulting in a strong finish for the Bills.
Preseason ranking: 8
Best newcomer performance: DC Anthony Weaver
Weaver’s leadership resulted in a solid defensive outing for the Dolphins against the Jaguars.
Preseason ranking: 13
Best newcomer performance: LB Jared Verse
Verse registered his first sack in a promising debut for the Rams during a challenging game.
Preseason ranking: 16
Best newcomer performance: DB DeShon Elliott
Elliott made a pivotal interception early in the game, helping support a developing Steelers offense.
Preseason ranking: 10
Best newcomer performance: S Xavier McKinney
McKinney delivered an interception in a critical moment for the Packers’ defense.
Preseason ranking: 21
Best newcomer performance: OC Liam Coen
Coen’s debut as offensive coordinator yielded impressive scoring for the Buccaneers.
Preseason ranking: 9
Best newcomer performance: RB Zack Moss
Moss scored the team’s only touchdown in a tough outing for the Bengals.
Preseason ranking: 14
Best newcomer performance: WR Brian Thomas Jr.
Thomas had a promising start to his career, scoring in his first game.
Preseason ranking: 20
Best newcomer performance: RB J.K. Dobbins
Dobbins turned in an impressive performance for the Chargers, showcasing his potential.
Preseason ranking: 17
Best newcomer performance: S Jonathan Owens
Owens energized the Bears’ special teams with a key play that shifted momentum.
Preseason ranking: 22
Best newcomer performance: HC Mike Macdonald
Macdonald successfully led the Seahawks to victory, demonstrating strong defensive strategy.
Preseason ranking: 18
Best newcomer performance: WR Adonai Mitchell
Mitchell showed promise early in his career, setting the stage for future development.
Preseason ranking: 12
Best newcomer performance: WR Jerry Jeudy
Jeudy made a touchdown catch in a lackluster offensive display for the Browns.
Preseason ranking: 23
Best newcomer performance: QB Sam Darnold
Darnold’s efficient performance led the Vikings to a comfortable victory.
Preseason ranking: 25
Best newcomer performance: S Will Harris
Harris’s interception set a strong tone for the Saints’ defense against the Panthers.
Preseason ranking: 30
Best newcomer performance: HC Jerod Mayo
Mayo prepared his team effectively, leading to a strong performance in his first game.
Preseason ranking: 29
Best newcomer performance: Edge Matthew Judon
Judon reinforced the Falcons’ defense, demonstrating his recovered form.
Preseason ranking: 24
Best newcomer performance: RB DeeJay Dallas
Dallas made history with a record-setting return touchdown in his debut.
Preseason ranking: 27
Best newcomer performance: DL T’Vondre Sweat
Sweat’s impact was felt on the field despite no recorded statistics.
Preseason ranking: 28
Best newcomer performance: TE Brock Bowers
Bowers led the Raiders in receiving, indicating a bright future ahead.
Preseason ranking: 28
Best newcomer performance: QB Jayden Daniels
Daniels showcased his dual-threat capability in a solid performance for the Chargers.