NFL
Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
NFL teams are constantly changing their rosters in pursuit of perfection. Other times, players get too expensive to keep. The point is, teams are always trying to find the right recipe for success. But even the best players don’t always have good days. Humans have bad days too. Down below is one NFL player from each team who will disappoint their fan bases in Week 3.
Arizona Cardinals, Jacoby Brissett
NFL: Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals32
Sep 20, 2026; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) throws in the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
The 49ers have been one of the NFL’s best teams this season, and while Jacoby Brissett has had his moments, some tasks are just too tall. That will be the story this week against a 49ers defense that knows the journeyman quarterback well. After Brissett had just 95 yards, a touchdown and an interception last week, Brissett may end up with a few more yards, but he won’t come close to leading his team to victory.
Atlanta Falcons, Bijan Robinson
NFL: Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons32
Sep 20, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) rushes during the first quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Even though it’s Michael Penix Jr.‘s first start back with the Atlanta Falcons, he may not be completely confident in his surgically-repaired knee. Plus, the Packers, will likely key in on trying to slow down the Falcons’ best playmaker, Bijan Robinson. He’s gone for 83 and 72 rushing yards in his first two games. After the Packers let up 107 yards to the Vikings in Week 1, they put the clamps on Breece Hall and held the Jets to just 67 rushing yards, despite taking the game to OT.
Baltimore Ravens, Malaki Starks
NFL: Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts32
Sep 13, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Baltimore Ravens safety Malaki Starks (24) tackles Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) during the second half at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
A year ago, the Ravens made Malaki Starks the 27th overall pick. While young players typically get better from one year to the next, he’s already missed two tackles this season. He’s also allowed a catch all seven times he’s been targeted, for 88 yards and a touchdown. Facing off against two elite pass-catchers in Dallas, it could be a long day for Starks in Brazil.
Buffalo Bills, James Cook
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has a large space to run and almost makes it to the end zone before getting tackled during32
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook has a large space to run and almost makes it to the end zone before getting tackled during the second half at the Bills home opener game against the Detroit Lions on Sept. 17, 2026.
They can’t all be winners, not even the NFL’s reigning rushing leader. James Cook is as good as they get, but sometimes the Bills will run into a good defense that will trip him up. That could happen this week against the Chargers, who rank first in the NFL, allowing just 2.7 yards per carry. Cook could run into a brick wall this week.
Carolina Panthers, Robert Hunt
NFL: Carolina Panthers Training Camp32
Aug 2, 2025; Charlottle, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers guard Robert Hunt (50) takes the field during Fanfest at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Even after trading Myles Garrett, the Browns have some impressive pieces in their front seven that could give the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. With a pair of excellent defensive tackles in Mason Graham and Maliek Collins, plus Jared Verse, the Panthers’ offensive line will face too much to handle. Right guard Robert Hunt in particular will break down at the point of attack, letting Panthers fans down everywhere.
Chicago Bears, Colston Loveland
NFL: Chicago Bears at Cincinnati Bengals32
Aug 22, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland (84) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
The Bears made Colston Loveland the 10th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. While he had 713 yards as a rookie, the second-year pro has disappeared in 2026. Loveland has been targeted five times, but has caught just one for three yards. With Case Keenum taking over at QB, the Bears’ passing attack won’t look great this week, and the few passes he does complete won’t be enough to help Loveland have a big day.
Cincinnati Bengals, Mike Gesicki
NFL: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Cincinnati Bengals32
Sep 13, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (88) reacts during the fourth quarter at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
The Cincinnati Bengals are heading for a classic AFC North showdown on Sunday against the Steelers on Sunday. While Pittsburgh hasn’t done much right this year, they do rank eighth in points allowed. The Steelers rank third in passing yards allowed, second in touchdowns, and have already picked off three passes. When the Bengals air it out, chances are they won’t look to Mike Gesicki often, they’d much rather force the ball downfield to Ja’Marr Chase and/or Tee Higgins.
Cleveland Browns, Jerry Jeudy
NFL: Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears32
Aug 15, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears linebacker D’Marco Jackson (48) tackles Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (3) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
The Cleveland Browns‘ passing offense is taking baby steps forward, but that doesn’t mean Jerry Jeudy will suddenly become a playmaker again. He’s been targeted five times this season, but has caught just two of them for 26 yards. Even though he’s just 27 years old, Jeudy hasn’t shown much playmaking potential in recent time, finishing with just 602 yards last season.
Dallas Cowboys, Jaishawn Barham
NFL: New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys32
Aug 28, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaishawn Barham (55) on defense during the first half against the New Orleans Saints at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The Dallas Cowboys had been counting on DeMarvion Overshown to start at middle linebacker this season, but now that he’s hurt, they’re forced to turn to third-round rookie Jaishawn Barham. The 22-year-old has only played 79 snaps on defense, but he’s already missed a tackle, and allowed a catch all four times he’s been targeted. Playing in a unique atmosphere in Brazil, Barham could look a bit foolish against Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Co.
Denver Broncos, Bo Nix
NFL: Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos32
Sep 20, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix (10) throws downfield against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the fourth quarter at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The Denver Broncos are facing one of their toughest tasks of the season on Sunday night against the Rams, who boast playmakers at every level. Aaron Donald knocked some of the rust off last week, and he may be more effecting in Week 3. With the Rams throwing seven different types of smoke against the Broncos, Bo Nix could struggle in primetime against a well-coached team.
Detroit Lions, Thomas Harper
Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid (86) makes a catch for a touchdown against Detroit Lions safety Thomas Harper (12) during32
Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid (86) makes a catch for a touchdown against Detroit Lions safety Thomas Harper (12) during the first half at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, NY, on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026.
The Detroit Lions‘ secondary is in shambles after injuries to Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, and Avonte Maddox. Now they’re down to third-year safety Thomas Harper, who has played 761 snaps but hasn’t made a huge impact in his limited action. Last year, Harper started nine games, but ended up with 37 tackles, an interception, forced fumble and five pass deflections. He’s played 87 snaps on defense this year, but has recorded just five tackles and two pass deflections. Don’t expect much more on Sunday.
Green Bay Packers, Anthony Belton
Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Anthony Belton (71) runs on to the field before their wild card playoff game Saturday,32
Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Anthony Belton (71) runs on to the field before their wild card playoff game Saturday, January 10, 2026 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. The Chicago Bears beat the Green Bay Packers 31-27.
With Zack Bako-Bewale suffering a season-ending injury, the Packers will be turning to 2025 second-round pick Anthony Belton. The second-year pro relieved Bako-Bewale last week, and he allowed two hurries and pressures on Sunday. Even though he’ll have a week of work as the first-team right tackle, the Packers are working on a short turnaround against Atlanta who has gotten 2.5 sacks from Za’Darius Smith.
Houston Texans, Xavier Hutchinson
NFL: Cincinnati Bengals at Houston Texans32
Sep 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Xavier Hutchinson (19) is unable to catch a pass as Cincinnati Bengals defensive back Daxton Hill (23) defends during the game at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
C.J. Stroud needs all the help he can get this season, but unfortunately, he hasn’t been getting it from receiver Xavier Hutchinson. He’s caught just six of 15 receptions for 69 yards. Even though his career-best game of 84 yards came back in January, Hutchinson won’t come anywhere close to that this week facing off against the Colts’ secondary.
Indianapolis Colts, Keenan Allen
NFL: Indianapolis Colts at Kansas City Chiefs32
Sep 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs safety Alohi Gilman (17) and cornerback Kristian Fulton (8) break up a pass intended for Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Keenan Allen (10) during the second quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Signed after the Indianapolis Colts felt the need to boost their receiving corps following a stagnant offseason, Keenan Allen hasn’t done much with his new team, except make headlines off the field. He’s caught just seven passes for 37 yards, and he’s not suddenly going to wake up against Houston’s world-class defense.
Jacksonville Jaguars, Robert Hainsey
Jacksonville Jaguars center Robert Hainsey (73) runs on the field before an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium on Sunday,32
Jacksonville Jaguars center Robert Hainsey (73) runs on the field before an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Browns 34-10. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]
Armed with Milton Williams and breakout rookie Gabe Jacas, the Patriots could bring a bit of extra juice to their matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. Meanwhile, Jaguars center Robert Hainsey may not be ready for it. He’s already let up a sack, a hit, and two pressures through two games, and after Sunday, those numbers may be doubled.
Kansas City Chiefs, Khyiris Tonga
NFL: Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers32
Oct 6, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Naquan Jones (96) celebrates with defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga (95) after recording a sack against the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
The Chiefs won’t have any trouble beating Miami, but slowing down De’Von Achane will be a unique challenge. He’s been struggling so far, but that will only make him hungrier heading into Week 3. Meanwhile, Khyiris Tonga has played 50% of the team’s defensive snaps, seeing a lot of work in run-stopping situations, yet he has just one tackle this season. Achane may just run right past his outstretched arms on Sunday.
Las Vegas Raiders, Taron Johnson
NFL: Miami Dolphins at Las Vegas Raiders32
Sep 13, 2026; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders cornerback Taron Johnson (3) prepares for the snap against the Miami Dolphins at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Brytus-Imagn Images.
The Las Vegas Raiders‘ Week 3 matchup against the Saints could turn into a shootout with Tyler Shough leading the NFL in passing yards. If so, Raiders cornerback Taron Johnson could be in trouble because Shough has shown an ability to fit the ball in some tight windows, no matter who’s in coverage, but Johnson has already been beat a few times this year, including a 29-yard reception in Week 1 against Miami.
Los Angeles Chargers, Genesis Smith
NFL: Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans32
Aug 13, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans tight end Marlin Klein (83) runs after the catch against Los Angeles Chargers safety Genesis Smith (22) in the first quarter at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Genesis Smith is a fourth-round rookie, but he’s already played 63 snaps on the Los Angeles Chargers‘ defense. Expect Joe Brady and Josh Allen to expose this youngster, showing him he still has a lot to learn when it comes to fitting in at the NFL level.
Los Angeles Rams, Harrison Mevis
NFL: NFC Wild Card Round-Los Angeles Rams at Carolina Panthers32
Jan 10, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Los Angeles Rams place kicker Harrison Mevis (92) kicks a PAT against the Carolina Panthers in the first half during the NFC Wild Card Round game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Harrison Mevis may be able to kick longer than usual playing in the advanced elevation at Mile High Stadium. He’s made all five extra points, but he also missed a 43-yarder last week in New York, despite playing indoors. If he can miss a kick within 45 yards with no elements in play, he may have some trouble outside in Denver.
Miami Dolphins, Malik Willis
NFL: Miami Dolphins at San Francisco 49ers32
Sep 20, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis (2) runs the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Malik Willis has just eight starts in his career, and it shows. He’s completed just 58% of his passes thus far, has just one touchdown through the air, and another on the ground. He’s also been sacked nine times, despite having plus mobility. While he played a bit better in Week 2, Willis will feel the pressure, trying to hang with a Chiefs team capable of scoring a lot of points, and the Dolphins QB won’t be able to deliver.
Minnesota Vikings, Will Fries
NFL: Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers32
Nov 23, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive end Micah Parsons (1) gets by Minnesota Vikings guard Will Fries (76) during the first half at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The Minnesota Vikings‘ offensive line has been mostly excellent this season. Aside from a bad snap way over the head of Carson Wentz, center Blake Brandel has held his own considering he’s playing his third different position in the NFL. Meanwhile, if there’s one weak spot, it’s right guard Will Fries, who has allowed a sack, a hit, three hurries, and five pressures. Signed to an $87 million contract, the Vikings expect better from Fries.
New England Patriots, Kyle Williams
NFL: Philadelphia Eagles at New England Patriots32
Aug 22, 2026; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Kyle Williams (18) catches a pass against Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Ambry Thomas (38) and runs for a touchdown during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
In his second season since becoming a third-round pick, Kyle Williams has just 11 receptions for 219 yards in his career. Overall, he’s been a bit of a disappointment, but with A.J. Brown out, Patriots receivers are getting more opportunities. Last week, Williams caught one of his two targets for 10 yards, but don’t expect the 23-year-old to be any better this week.
New Orleans Saints, Asim Richards
NFL: Jacksonville Jaguars at New Orleans Saints32
Aug 15, 2026; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Asim Richards (72) looks on against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Set to take over as the New Orleans Saints new left tackle after Kelvin Banks Jr.’s injury, Asim Richards will quickly disappoint as Tyler Shough‘s blindside protector. Last week he allowed a hit, hurry, and two pressures in just 15 pass-blocking snaps. Imagine what will happen with a full game against one of the NFL’s best in Maxx Crosby on Sunday.
New York Giants, John Michael Schmitz
NFL: Baltimore Ravens at New York Giants32
Dec 15, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants center John Michael Schmitz Jr. (61) before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Facing off against one of the NFL’s best defensive tackles in Jeffery Simmons, the New York Giants starting center will struggle on Sunday. Simmons is a load, even for the best interior offensive linemen, and John Michael Schmitz is still trying to find his groove, four seasons into his career.
New York Jets, Harrison Phillips
NFL: New York Jets at Tennessee Titans32
Sep 13, 2026; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; New York Jets defensive tackle Harrison Phillips (97) waves to the crowd against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Facing off against one of the NFL’s best offenses in the Lions, Harrison Phillips could be in for a long day. Plus, the New York Jets‘ Week 3 opponent knows Phillips well, from when he played for the Vikings from 2022 to 2024. Dan Campbell will find ways to take Phillips out of the picture, whether it’s running right at him, or finding other unique ways to make him a weakness, Jets fans will wish they had someone else in the middle on Sunday.
Philadelphia Eagles, Tank Bigsby
NFL: Philadelphia Eagles at Tennessee Titans32
Sep 20, 2026; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Tank Bigsby (8) runs with the ball against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Expected to see a heavier workload on Monday, Tank Bigsby won’t bring any extra playmaking juice to Philadelphia’s backfield. Last week, Bigsby received 13 carries, but he only took them for 33 yards and a touchdown. His longest rush was nine yards. The Eagles certainly won’t be happy if he gets just 2.5 yards per attempt again.
Pittsburgh Steelers, Jaylen Warren
NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers at New England Patriots32
Sep 20, 2026; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) runs the ball against the New England Patriots in the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Not much has gone right for the Pittsburgh Steelers offensively this season, and that likely won’t change against Cincinnati, who’s defense is new and improved. Cincinnati’s defense ranks eighth in points allowed, and third in rushing yards allowed. It also doesn’t help that Jaylen Warren hasn’t had a rushing play go for over 17 yards this season. He’s averaging just 4.2 yards per carry on 21 attempts, and he’s not likely to break loose on Sunday in Pittsburgh either.
San Francisco 49ers, Deommodore Lenoir
NFL: San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams32
Sep 11, 2026; Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir (2) during the 2026 NFL Melbourne Game against the Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The Cardinals don’t have much working in their favor this season, but they do have a pair of very capable pass-catchers in Trey McBride and Michael Wilson. Jacoby Brissett is a veteran who will find advantages, and this week, he’ll pick on Deommodore Lenoir who’s allowed a reception on 8-of-11 targets thus far this season.
Seattle Seahawks, Christian Haynes
NFL: Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals32
Dec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks guard Christian Haynes (64) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Seattle Seahawks face off against the Commanders this week, who have a deep defensive line that’s capable of wreaking some havoc. Meanwhile, the Seahawks’ starting right guard Anthony Bradford won’t be available. While Bradford hasn’t been great when healthy, he earned the starting job for a reason. Now, Seahawks fans will see that his replacement, Christian Haynes, isn’t any better.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cody Mauch
NFL: Philadelphia Eagles at Tampa Bay Buccaneers32
Sep 29, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Cody Mauch (69) lines up against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Tampa Bay Buccaneers right guard Cody Mauch allowed five pressures last week and that was against a thriving Bengals defense. It gets even worse this week against the NFL’s most blitz-heavy defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who finds creative ways to overload the offensive line. As a known weak spot, the Vikings will attack Mauch and he’ll get exposed on Sunday.
Tennessee Titans, Dan Moore Jr.
Tennessee Titans tackle Dan Moore Jr. (75) heads to the field during mandatory minicamp at Vanderbilt Health Football Center in32
Tennessee Titans tackle Dan Moore Jr. (75) heads to the field during mandatory minicamp at Vanderbilt Health Football Center in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
Facing off against a hungry Giants pass-rush that knows it needs to bring it’s ‘A’ game after their starting QB got hurt last week, Tennessee’s offensive line will get overloaded with blitzes this week. Left tackle Dan Moore Jr. won’t be able to hold up against the Giants’ mix of pass-rushers, and it will be another bad day for Cam Ward.
Washington Commanders, Marcus Mariota
NFL: Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys32
Sep 20, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) walks on the field after a game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
It’s a battle of backup quarterbacks, but Lock has been on the job for three weeks now, whereas Marcus Mariota will be making his first start of the season, and he doesn’t have one of the NFL’s very best receivers at his disposal. The Commanders’ offense was struggling with Jayden Daniels, and Mariota won’t suddenly breath some life into this scoring attack.