Overreactions are common after the NFL’s opening weekend, but a few teams clearly left more cause for worry than others heading into Week 2. Here’s a closer look at five 0-1 clubs that have real concerns stemming from their Week 1 performances, along with what to watch in their upcoming back-to-back schedule stretches.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans entered the season with limited expectations for a deep playoff push, and Week 1 did little to change that narrative. Quarterback Cam Ward continues to develop chemistry with his pass catchers, but the connection with primary weapons like Carnell Tate still looks uneven. Ward appeared a step slow in processing and didn’t get consistent lift from a line that allowed noticeable pressure. Tennessee’s pass protection was a concern, and the team ranked toward the middle of the league in pressure allowed in Week 1. If the offense can’t protect Ward and start generating more consistent rhythm throws, the Titans may struggle to maximize Ward’s athleticism. The looming question is whether the line and play-calling can help Ward settle in, or if the team will be drafting with a high pick in 2027.
Los Angeles Chargers
Losing at home to a conference foe is never ideal, and Week 1’s defeat has amplified questions about this roster. The Chargers allowed a high rate of pressure up front (one of the higher percentages in the league) and saw the defense fail to apply pressure without a designated play caller, raising concerns about schematic continuity. With a demanding early schedule and a potential need to navigate a tough division, the Chargers must find more production from their protection schemes and pass rush. If Week 2 arrives with another setback, chatter about whether this team can still contend for a postseason spot could intensify.
Green Bay Packers
The Packers faced a challenging start after a Week 1 performance that exposed certain vulnerabilities. The offensive line surrendered a high pressure rate, which elevates the risk of quarterback Jordan Love facing injury or inconsistency. A compromised pass protection can derail a game plan that relies on Love’s ability to operate from structured pockets and extend plays. Green Bay’s immediate concern is stabilizing the protection and establishing a more reliable run-pass balance to keep defenses honest. If the line can’t progress quickly, Love could face more pressure in successive games, amplifying the risk of negative outcomes.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts’ Week 1 result against the Baltimore Ravens was costly on both sides of the ball. Indianapolis allowed 506 total yards and 41 points, and the defense struggled to contain the run, with Ravens rushing success highlighting the issue. The secondary surrendered explosive plays, while the offense could not muster a sustained counterpunch against pressure. Daniel Jones showed visible discomfort under duress, and the line allowed a very high pressure rate as well. With upcoming games against strong opponents like the Chiefs and Texans, an 0-3 start feels plausible, which could amplify concerns about the offensive line protection and overall roster balance.
Denver Broncos
Denver’s Week 1 woes can be traced to several factors. Trading a first-round pick for a receiver like Jaylen Waddle signals a strong win-now intent, but the offense hasn’t yet clicked to maximize Waddle’s strengths in the middle of the field. The defense is missing an edge rusher and has shown occasional missed-tackle issues, which compounds the challenge. The immediate concern is the upcoming schedule, which includes several difficult matchups. If Denver’s offense remains misaligned and the defense struggles to stop high-yield offenses, the team could slip further in the standings early in the season.
What to watch next
– Offensive line and protection: For several teams above, protecting the quarterback remains a central issue. Improving pass protection, creating cleaner pockets, and establishing a more dynamic run game will be critical to stabilizing early-season misfires.
– Play-calling and schematics: For teams where the defense is adjusting to new play callers or where coordinators are less experienced in coordinating an NFL-level attack, finding rhythm quickly is essential to avoid extended slumps.
– Quarterback confidence and health: A line that struggles to protect a quarterback can lead to confidence dips and risky decisions. Teams must prioritize quick, high-percentage throws and protections designed to keep top playmakers involved.
– Schedule pressure: With several teams facing a notably tough slate in the next five weeks, even a modest improvement could determine whether a season remains in the playoff conversation or shifts toward longer-term rebuild discussions.
Bottom line: A Week 1 stumble doesn’t doom a season, but for these teams, immediate improvements in protection, run game establishment, and cohesive game plans are vital. As Week 2 approaches, the wins required to salvage a promising trajectory become clearer, and the teams that adapt quickly will be the ones best positioned to avoid early-season spirals.
