The NFL season kicked off with all the drama fans could hope for, from game-changing rule effects to rookie heroics and last-minute thrillers. A new rule immediately left its mark, with kickoffs being returned at the highest rate in more than a decade. By placing touchbacks at the 35-yard line instead of the 30, the league encouraged more returns and gave special teams an outsized role in Week 1 action.
In Chicago, rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy stole the spotlight in his debut for the Minnesota Vikings. After missing last season due to injury, he showed poise and firepower, throwing two touchdown passes and adding a rushing score in a 27–24 comeback victory against the Bears. His performance sparked instant conversations about his future as one of the league’s breakout stars.
The Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens gave fans one of the most thrilling games of the week, with the Bills edging out a 41–40 win. Quarterback Josh Allen put on a fourth-quarter masterclass, rushing for two late touchdowns and setting a new franchise record for rushing scores. It was a reminder of why Allen remains one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks.
Not every team found success in their opener. The Detroit Lions fell 27–13 to the Green Bay Packers, exposing weaknesses in both pass protection and defensive coverage. Jared Goff faced pressure throughout the game, and the offense struggled to find rhythm in the red zone. Green Bay capitalized, leaving Detroit with plenty of questions heading into Week 2.
The Pittsburgh Steelers managed a narrow 34–32 win over the New York Jets, but the victory came with concern. Safety DeShon Elliott suffered an MCL injury that will sideline him for weeks. The Steelers quickly moved to re-sign veteran Jabrill Peppers, banking on his experience to stabilize the secondary as the season unfolds.
From record-breaking returns to breakout performances and unexpected setbacks, Week 1 set the tone for what promises to be another unpredictable NFL season. Fans now look ahead to Week 2, eager to see which storylines will carry forward and which new surprises await.