NFL Week 1 Disappointments: Analyzing Underperformers and Future Outlook

The first week of the NFL season brought its share of surprises and disappointments. While some players lived up to the hype, others fell short of expectations. Let's take a closer look at some of the key underperformers from Week 1 and assess whether their struggles are a one-off or a sign of things to come.

A.J. Brown, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

A.J. Brown was virtually invisible in the Eagles' Thursday night victory, managing just one catch for eight yards. Despite the lack of production, it's important to note that the Dallas Cowboys employed zone coverage on 85.7% of Jalen Hurts' dropbacks, which limited Brown's opportunities. The Eagles can adjust their scheme to create more open looks for Brown, particularly with in-breaking routes. While Week 1 was a letdown for fantasy managers, there's no need to panic just yet. Expect Brown to bounce back in Week 2 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Joe Burrow, QB, Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Burrow and the Bengals' passing game struggled in their Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns. Burrow completed only 14 of 23 passes for 113 yards and one touchdown, resulting in a modest 8.82 fantasy points. The Browns' defense has historically been a tough matchup for Burrow, and this game was no exception. However, with a favorable matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 2, Burrow is poised to rebound and reassert himself as a top-tier fantasy quarterback.

Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars

Brian Thomas Jr. had a quiet debut under new coach Liam Coen, catching just one pass for 11 yards. Despite the low output, Thomas saw seven targets from Trevor Lawrence, indicating that the opportunities were there. Lawrence's inaccuracy on several throws to Thomas was a key factor in the lack of production. With better ball location and continued involvement in the game plan, Thomas has the potential to be a difference-maker for the Jaguars. Patience is key for fantasy managers.

Nico Collins, WR, Houston Texans

Nico Collins had a tough outing in the Texans' loss to the Los Angeles Rams, catching three of five targets for 25 yards. Despite the modest production, Collins led the Texans with an 18.5% target share and plays a defined role in the offense. As the boundary X receiver in 3x1 sets, Collins is an isolation target for C.J. Stroud at multiple levels. With a better matchup on tap against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Collins is a strong candidate for a bounce-back performance in Week 2.

Jared Goff, QB, Detroit Lions

Jared Goff's performance in Week 1 raised some concerns, as he managed just 10.9 fantasy points and completed only one pass of 20 or more yards. The departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson could have a significant impact on Goff's production this season. While Goff still has high-level targets like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, his numbers may decline, making him more of a streaming option in fantasy leagues.

Miami Dolphins Pass Game

The Miami Dolphins' passing game struggled in their Week 1 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, with Tua Tagovailoa turning the ball over three times. Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle combined for just 15 fantasy points, well below expectations. While the Week 2 matchup against the New England Patriots is favorable, the Dolphins will need to generate more big plays to get their offense back on track.

RJ Harvey, RB, Denver Broncos

RJ Harvey showed flashes of his big-play ability with a 50-yard rush in the Broncos' win over the Tennessee Titans. However, he finished with just eight touches, while veteran J.K. Dobbins led the backfield with 18 touches and a rushing score. Harvey has the potential to be the Broncos' lead back, but he will need more time to earn a defined role in the offense.

Kaleb Johnson, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers

Kaleb Johnson had a disappointing debut, managing just one carry for minus-2 yards. Despite the lack of production, Johnson remains a bench stash in fantasy leagues due to his potential in the Steelers' run game. With more opportunities, Johnson could carve out a role as the early-down runner alongside Jaylen Warren.

Cooper Kupp, WR, Seattle Seahawks

Cooper Kupp's performance in Week 1 was underwhelming, as he caught just two passes for 15 yards. While offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak can scheme to get Kupp more involved, it's clear that Jaxon Smith-Njigba is the volume target in Seattle. Kupp remains a viable option in deeper fantasy formats, but his days as a top-tier receiver may be behind him.

In conclusion, while Week 1 brought its share of disappointments, it's important to keep things in perspective. Some players are likely to bounce back, while others may continue to struggle. Fantasy managers should monitor these situations closely and make adjustments as needed.