The San Francisco 49ers concluded an electrifying opening weekend for the 2024 NFL season with a victory over the New York Jets on “Monday Night Football.” The Kansas City Chiefs narrowly defeated the Baltimore Ravens 27-20, while the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys also celebrated significant wins. With so much action since the Preseason Power Rankings were released, it’s time to reevaluate all 32 teams before Week 2.
Alongside the rankings, NFL Nation reporters highlighted standout newcomers—defined as rookies, new coaches, or significant offseason acquisitions—who made the biggest impact. Celebrations included Jerod Mayo and Mike Macdonald both securing their first wins as head coaches, as well as impressive performances from rookie playmakers.
The evaluation panel, comprising over 80 writers, editors, and television personalities, ranked NFL teams from 1 to 32 based on their performances.
Starting with the top-ranked team, notable performances include:
Preseason ranking: 1
Best newcomer performance: WR Xavier Worthy
Worthy proved his worth with two plays longer than 20 yards, including a touchdown on his first touch and another scoring catch in the fourth quarter. His significant presence on the field was a boon for the Chiefs, who achieved three passing plays over 30 yards and three more over 20 yards.
Preseason ranking: 3
Best newcomer performance: DE Leonard Floyd
Floyd, now a 49er, made an immediate impact against the Jets, recording two tackles, one sack, and causing pressure that led to an interception against QB Aaron Rodgers.
Preseason ranking: 4
Best newcomer performance: DB Terrion Arnold
Rookie Arnold recorded eight tackles in Detroit’s overtime win, playing nearly every snap and facing off against Rams’ veteran players, which impressed Coach Dan Campbell.
Preseason ranking: 2
Best newcomer performance: RB Derrick Henry
Despite the Ravens shifting away from the run game while trailing, Henry managed to score a touchdown on an opening drive that showcased his promise, with potential for more opportunities in Week 2.
Preseason ranking: 5
Best newcomer performance: RB Saquon Barkley
Barkley was a standout in Brazil, rushing for over 100 yards and scoring three touchdowns against the Packers in a historic debut for the franchise.
Preseason ranking: 6
Best newcomer performance: RB Joe Mixon
Mixon’s exceptional debut included 159 rushing yards and a touchdown, showcasing his versatility against varying defensive fronts.
Preseason ranking: 11
Best newcomer performance: LB DeMarvion Overshown
Displaying remarkable speed, Overshown dominated the field with nine tackles and a sack in Dallas’ victory over the Browns.
Preseason ranking: 7
Best newcomer performance: DC Bobby Babich
Babich’s defensive adjustments were crucial, especially after an injury to nickel corner Taron Johnson. The Bills’ defense held Kyler Murray to a minimal second-half output.
Preseason ranking: 8
Best newcomer performance: DC Anthony Weaver
Weaver inspired the Dolphins to shut out the Jaguars in the second half, proving their defensive prowess.
Preseason ranking: 16
Best newcomer performance: DB DeShon Elliott
Elliott snagged the game’s first interception, helping to maintain the Steelers’ momentum in a tight contest.
Preseason ranking: 10
Best newcomer performance: S Xavier McKinney
McKinney’s defensive efforts included an interception during a tough battle against the Eagles, significantly contributing to his team’s defensive success.
Preseason ranking: 21
Best newcomer performance: OC Liam Coen
Under Coen’s guidance, the Bucs scored 37 points, standing out in a successful offensive display.
Preseason ranking: 9
Best newcomer performance: RB Zack Moss
Despite a disappointing team performance, Moss managed to score the Bengals’ only touchdown, continuing to play a vital role in their offense.
Preseason ranking: 14
Best newcomer performance: QB Tyrod Taylor
Taylor made his presence felt by leading a late touchdown drive, showcasing his capabilities as a backup quarterback.
Preseason ranking: 20
Best newcomer performance: WR Brian Thomas Jr.
In his debut, Thomas grabbed four passes for 47 yards, highlighted by a touchdown catch that drew significant attention.
Preseason ranking: 17
Best newcomer performance: RB J.K. Dobbins
Dobbins made an impact with two substantial runs, propelling the Chargers’ offensive efforts.
Preseason ranking: 22
Best newcomer performance: S Jonathan Owens
Owens scored a critical touchdown off a blocked punt in the Bears’ comeback effort.
Preseason ranking: 18
Best newcomer performance: HC Mike Macdonald
Macdonald’s shifts on defense contributed significantly to the Seahawks’ successful game plan against the Broncos.
Preseason ranking: 12
Best newcomer performance: WR Jerry Jeudy
Though the Browns struggled, Jeudy’s touchdown reception stood out as a bright spot.
Preseason ranking: 25
Best newcomer performance: S Will Harris
He started his tenure with an interception and aided the Saints in limiting the Panthers to just 10 points.
Preseason ranking: 30
Best newcomer performance: HC Jerod Mayo
Mayo demonstrated effective leadership, ensuring his team was ready and capitalizing on key moments.
Preseason ranking: 29
Best newcomer performance: Edge Matthew Judon
Judon’s return to form proved significant for the Falcons in their defensive strategy.
Preseason ranking: 24
Best newcomer performance: RB DeeJay Dallas
Dallas made history with a remarkable kickoff return that displayed his athleticism.
Preseason ranking: 27
Best newcomer performance: DL T’Vondre Sweat
Sweat showed promising play across critical downs while contributing heavily.
Preseason ranking: 28
Best newcomer performance: TE Brock Bowers
Bowers had an impactful debut, leading the Raiders in targets and receptions.
Preseason ranking: 23
Best newcomer performance: QB Jayden Daniels
Daniels showcased his dual-threat capability and will likely grow as he faces more challenges ahead.