NFL Week 2: Five stars who need to bounce back from Week 1 performance

Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season was anything but kind to these five-star players. Here’s why they need a resurgent Week 2 more than most.

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Russell Wilson, QB, New York Giants

Russell Wilson’s debut under centre resulted in a woeful 17-of-37 for just 168 yards and zero touchdowns in a 21-6 loss to the Washington Commanders. Offensive line issues compounded the chaos, but the veteran signal caller consistently bailed from the pocket without a plan and was unable to make throws over the middle of the field. Postgame, coach Brian Daboll refused to outright confirm the 35-year-old would be his Week 2 starter. With rookie Jaxson Dart waiting in the wings, Wilson must produce against the Dallas Cowboys or risk being replaced.

Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Miami Dolphins

Tua Tagavailoa’s night was brutal: 14-of-23 for 114 yards, two interceptions, a lost fumble, and a 51.7 passer rating in a 33-8 drubbing at the hands of Daniel Jones and the Indianapolis Colts. As the sixth-highest-paid quarterback in the NFL (earning approximately $53 million a year), his starting job and long-term future could hinge on a Week 2 rebound against the New England Patriots. 

Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals

Coming off a league-leading season, Ja’Marr Chase entered the 2025 campaign as a frontrunner for the Offensive Player of the Year. But against a weak Cleveland Browns team in Week 1, he logged two catches for 26 yards in a narrow 17–16 win. Chase will look to quickly re-establish himself as Cincinnati's offensive engine when they face the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers

After a promising second half last season, former No.1 overall pick Bryce Young's confidence evidently grew, and he appeared to have overcome a rough start to life in the NFL. But Week 1 of the 2025 season saw Young return to his old ways as he went 18-of-35 for just 154 yards with two interceptions, a fumble, and a late TD in a 26-10 loss to Jacksonville. Week 2 against the Houston Texans becomes a must-perform game for the former Alabama quarterback. 

Isiah Pacheco, RB, Kansas City Chiefs

Back to health after an injury-hit 2024 and expected to power the run game in Patrick Mahomes’ offense, Isiah Pacheco managed just five carries for 25 yards and caught two passes for three yards in a 27-21 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil – not the return anyone hoped for. With a Super Bowl rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles looming, Pacheco needs to rev up the ground game quickly. 

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