The second week of the 2024 NFL season showcased a multitude of surprising performances.
The New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Minnesota Vikings all secured victories against teams listed in the top 10 of our Week 2 Power Rankings. Conversely, three squads from our preseason top 15—the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and Los Angeles Rams—find themselves at 0-2 as the season unfolds.
As a result of the numerous twists and turns seen after the second week of action, the Power Rankings have experienced a shuffle. Let’s analyze how all 32 teams are positioned.
Aside from the rankings, the NFL Nation reporters highlighted the key backup or role player on each team. We focused on those players who may not be labeled as the primary stars but significantly contribute to the team’s overall success.
Now, let’s delve into the updated 1-32 rankings, beginning with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Our power panel, comprising over 80 writers, editors, and television personalities, assesses how NFL teams compare, ranking them from 1 to 32.
Previous rankings: Preseason, Week 2
Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
Week 2 ranking: 1
Most important backup/role player: LB Leo Chenal
Chenal has taken on numerous roles for the Chiefs. During Sunday’s game against the Bengals, he played as a defensive end, defensive tackle, inside linebacker, and outside linebacker. Additionally, Chenal participated in a few snaps on offense as a blocker in short-yardage situations and contributed to 17 special teams plays. He’s increasingly being utilized as a rusher in passing scenarios, boasting the Chiefs’ third-highest pressure percentage (10.3%) among players with at least 10 pass rushes. — Adam Teicher
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
Week 2 ranking: 8
Most important backup/role player: DB Cam Lewis
This recognition could easily go to several players on the Bills’ defense, which is currently grappling with injuries. Lewis has been called upon to elevate his play in various areas, particularly as the starting nickel while Taron Johnson manages a forearm injury. An undrafted free agent from the University at Buffalo, Lewis also serves as a backup safety and contributes on special teams. He tied for the team lead in tackles (10) against the Dolphins, and maintaining his performance during Johnson’s absence will be crucial. — Alaina Getzenberg
Week 2 ranking: 2
Most crucial backup/role player: WR Jauan Jennings
In his position as the No. 3 receiver, Jennings is essential for executing the tough plays and coming through in critical moments. He has proven himself reliable in fulfilling blocking responsibilities, ranging from outside receiver duties to acting as a tight end. Since the beginning of last season, Jennings has achieved an impressive run-block win rate of 84.8%, significantly surpassing the league average of 79.2% for receivers during this timeframe. Additionally, his ability to convert third downs has earned him the moniker ”Third and Jauan,” with 55 of his 85 career receptions resulting in first downs, including 34 on third or fourth downs. — Nick Wagoner
Week 2 ranking: 6
Most crucial backup/role player: RB Dameon Pierce
With running back Joe Mixin’s status uncertain due to an ankle injury, Pierce may need to take on a larger role and shoulder the rushing responsibilities. The Texans’ aerial game is averaging 219 yards over the first two weeks, and the offense thrives when it can establish a strong ground game. In Week 1, Houston scored 29 points with Mixon’s 159 rushing yards; however, in Week 2, they managed only 19 points while Mixon was limited to 25 rushing yards. Last season, Pierce accumulated 416 rushing yards and two touchdowns in 14 games as a backup. — DJ Bien-Aime
2:02
McAfee and Schefter discuss the ongoing hip-drop tackle in the NFL
Pat McAfee and Adam Schefter analyze why the NFL has yet to penalize hip-drop tackles this season.
Week 2 ranking: 3
Most crucial backup/role player: RB Sione Vaki
The Lions possess one of the top backfields in the league with David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, yet Vaki adds a distinct skill set and contributes significantly on special teams. Although he played safety in college, he was drafted as a running back. Vaki demonstrated his receiving ability by successfully catching a pass during a fake punt against the Buccaneers. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson remarked, “We appreciated his special teams performance based on his college footage, and he’s effectively translated the physicality he showcased on special teams to the running back position, unafraid to confront a linebacker head-on.” — Eric Woodyard
Week 2 ranking: 5
Most crucial backup/
Role player: DE Brandon Graham
The 36-year-old Graham has consistently set the standard in the Eagles’ locker room, acting as a mentor to younger teammates. He also continues to make significant contributions on the field. In Week 1, he participated in 32 snaps, surpassing both Nolan Smith Jr. (31) and Bryce Huff (30). Although Graham intends to retire after this season, Philadelphia requires one more effective year from him to enhance an edge rush group facing some uncertainties. “I’ve told him several times, he’s not on any ceremonial last-year retirement parade,” stated defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. “He’s going to play. He’s still playing well.” — Tim McManus
Week 2 ranking: 13
Most important backup/role player: DB Christian Izien
Last season, Izien served as the Bucs’ starting nickelback but lost his position to rookie third-round draft pick Tykee Smith, prompting him to spend the summer learning the safety role. After three cornerbacks were injured during the game against Washington, Izien stepped in as an outside corner. He then started at free safety in Week 2, replacing All-Pro Antoine Winfield Jr., where he made a pivotal goal-line interception in the Bucs’ win over the Lions. — Jenna Laine
Week 2 ranking: 17
Most important backup/role player: LB Tuli Tuipulotu
Tuipulotu made a notable impact during the 2023 season, ranking seventh among rookies in sacks with 4.5. As a second-round pick, he finds himself behind one of the best edge rusher duos in the league, Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa, both of whom are aging, and Bosa has not played a full season since 2021. The Chargers have already started rotating Tuipulotu significantly; he recorded the third-most snaps at edge (27) in Sunday’s victory over the Panthers. He provides valuable depth when Bosa or Mack are off the field and plays a crucial role in a defense striving to improve from last season’s struggles as one of the league’s worst. — Kris Rhim
Week 2 ranking: 23
Most important backup/role player: CB Kool-Aid McKinstry
By Week 2, McKinstry had already filled in for Marshon Lattimore, who was sidelined against the Cowboys due to a hamstring issue. McKinstry plays a vital role by allowing the Saints to keep Alontae Taylor in the slot while placing McKinstry on the outside, maintaining cohesion for a secondary that has excelled through the first two weeks. He will also provide additional depth later in the season, given the high incidence of injuries at the position. — Katherine Terrell
Best of NFL Nation
• No Kelce, but tush push remains
• Can Cousins rewrite MNF narrative?
• Bucs get revenge vs. Lions
• Payton accepts share of blame
• Josh Jacobs makes no excuses
Week 2 ranking: 19
Most important backup/role player: RB Zach Charbonnet
With Kenneth Walker III sidelined due to an oblique injury sustained in the fourth quarter of the opener, Charbonnet has stepped in as Seattle’s primary running back. In the game against New England, he took on the full workload, achieving mixed results. Despite carrying the ball 14 times for just 38 yards, he managed to secure a rushing touchdown and registered 31 receiving yards, catching all five passes thrown his way. One of those receptions was a critical third-and-6 dump-off that kept Seattle’s winning drive alive in overtime. The timeline for Walker’s return remains uncertain, which could mean Charbonnet is once more called to action this week. – Brady Henderson
Week 2 ranking: 22
Most important backup/role player: WR Jalen Nailor
This season, Nailor has stepped in as the No. 3 receiver behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Although he has ample playing time due to the team’s frequent use of “11” personnel—approximately 65% of the time—this does not guarantee a lot of targets. Nevertheless, Nailor has capitalized on the five passes thrown his way this season. He has scored two touchdowns, converted a pivotal third-and-8 against the 49ers with a 26-yard reception, and secured another pass for 18 yards. — Kevin Seifert
Week 2 ranking: 11
Most important backup/role player: OL Spencer Anderson
Anderson often jokes about the constant comments regarding his versatility, yet it is this very attribute that makes him invaluable. With Isaac Seumalo dealing with a pec injury, Anderson has made his first two career starts this season. A seventh-round draft pick in 2023, he can play guard and is equipped to cover any position along the offensive line. Even when Seumalo is back to full health, Anderson is expected to serve as a versatile backup. However, he could potentially seize a starting role if the Steelers decide to part ways with right guard James Daniels, who will become a free agent after the season. — Brooke Pryor
Week 2 ranking: 4
Most important backup/role player: RB Justice Hill
Entering the season, Hill was expected to serve as a change-of-pace back to Derrick Henry but has surprisingly played 72 snaps over the first two games—seven more than Henry. He boasts an average of 5 yards per carry with 25 yards on five rush attempts. Additionally, he has caught eight passes for 62 yards and has proven to be a strong asset in pass protection for QB Lamar Jackson. Last year, team officials hailed Hill as the squad’s unsung hero, a title he continues to uphold this season. — Jamison Hensley
1:34
Stephen A. attributes the loss to the Raiders on Lamar Jackson
On “First Take,” Stephen A. Smith critiques Lamar Jackson, questioning his capability to finish games and maintain leads in the fourth quarter.
Week 2 ranking: 7
Key backup/role player: CB Jourdan Lewis
As the nickel cornerback, Lewis plays an essential role, similar to that of a starter, given the Cowboys’ extensive use of sub packages in their defense. His physical style of play sets the tone alongside stars Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence. Fearless in the run game, he consistently establishes the edge. Lewis is also adept at defending against diverse offensive threats, including receivers, tight ends, or running backs. By the conclusion of last week’s defeat to New Orleans, he transitioned to playing on the outside. Should the coaching staff find rookie Caelen Carson’s performance lacking in place of the injured DaRon Bland, they can rely more on Lewis. — Todd Archer
Week 2 ranking: 12
Key backup/role player: LB Eric Wilson
Despite playing only eight snaps during Sunday’s victory against the Colts, Wilson made his presence felt. He intercepted QB Anthony Richardson in the fourth quarter while the Colts were in Packers territory and earlier forced a fumble that Indianapolis managed to recover. As the third linebacker in the base 4-3 scheme, Wilson is the first to be substituted out when defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley opts for his nickel package—a frequent tactic against Indy. The experienced veteran, now in his eighth year, is also important on special teams. — Rob Demovsky
Week 2 ranking: 15
Key backup/role player: RB Braelon Allen
After a limited appearance in Week 1, the rookie showcased a breakout performance on Sunday, contributing both a rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown. Although Breece Hall will receive the majority of the carries, Allen creates a strong 1-2 punch in the backfield. They can both be deployed together in the backfield, as demonstrated four times against the Titans, including a touchdown reception by Allen. Allen can lighten Hall’s load and serve as a backup in case of injury. — Rich Cimini
Week 2 ranking: 9
Key backup/role player: QB Skylar Thompson
Thompson secured the backup quarterback position this offseason by outperforming veteran Mike White and is expected to step into a starting role in Week 3 against the Seahawks. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel noted that Thompson earned the role based on the team’s positive reaction to his performance in a preseason game,
Miami possesses the “utmost confidence” in their third-year quarterback. Thompson began three games during his rookie season in 2022, which included a playoff-qualifying victory against the Jets and a playoff defeat on the road to Buffalo. While it’s uncertain how many games he will be required to play this season, the Dolphins boast an offense rich in playmakers ready to support him. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Follow the NFL all season long
• Full schedule » | Standings »
• Depth charts for every team »
• Transactions » | Injuries »
• Football Power Index »
• Playoff picture projections »
More NFL coverage »
Week 2 ranking: 14
Most important backup/role player: TE Erick All Jr.
In just the initial two games of the season, All’s importance has risen dramatically. During the Week 2 loss to Kansas City, he logged as many snaps as starting tight end Drew Sample, contributing with four receptions for 42 yards. The coaching staff has shown considerable faith in this fourth-round pick. If All maintains his productivity and effectiveness, he could significantly influence Cincinnati’s offensive strategy. — Ben Baby
Week 2 ranking: 26
Most important backup/role player: RB Emari Demercado
Demercado has positioned himself as the Cardinals’ essential third-down back, sitting behind James Conner and Trey Benson on the depth chart. He has participated in 16 out of 24 third-down plays this season, and he executed pass blocks on 4 out of 10 passing third downs. Of the 16 third downs Demercado has played, the Cardinals successfully converted nine of them. — Josh Weinfuss
Week 2 ranking: 10
Most important backup/role player: QB Jimmy Garoppolo
After facing challenges at the backup quarterback position for two years, the Rams prioritized this area during the offseason. In 2022, Los Angeles picked up Baker Mayfield off waivers in December following an injury to starting quarterback Matthew Stafford. Last season, they signed Carson Wentz during their bye week after Brett Rypien struggled in his only start. Should Stafford be sidelined by injury, the Rams now believe they have a backup quarterback equipped to succeed within this offense. Stetson Bennett is also on the roster (he served as the backup while Garoppolo was suspended for the first two games), but the veteran clearly stands as the No. 2 quarterback. — Sarah Barshop
Week 2 ranking: 28<img alt="" src="https://a.espncdn“`html
Most important backup/role player: RB Alexander Mattison
Although Mattison has managed only 20 rushing yards on nine carries, including a mere 1 yard on four attempts against Baltimore, he has already scored two touchdowns on 13 touches. His notable plays include a 31-yard catch followed by a hurdle and run at the Chargers, as well as a 1-yard dive at the Ravens. In contrast, the Raiders’ rookie starter, Zamir White, has accumulated 68 rushing yards on 22 carries and 5 passing yards on six receptions without scoring. — Paul Gutierrez
Week 2 ranking: 21
Most important backup/role player: QB Jameis Winston
In 2023, the Browns dealt with a significant setback when quarterback Deshaun Watson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury, leading them to shuffle through five different starters before Joe Flacco guided the team on an unexpected playoff journey. Since joining Cleveland in 2022, Watson has frequently faced injuries, missing 11 games last season alone. Moreover, his performance has been underwhelming, with the sixth-lowest QBR recorded since his introduction to the league. Should Watson face further setbacks or be sidelined by coaches, Winston emerges as one of the NFL’s most seasoned backups. A veteran of ten seasons, Winston has started 80 games and thrown for 141 touchdowns during his career. — Daniel Oyefusi
Top stories of the week from 
Gain exclusive access to thousands of premium articles annually from leading writers.
• MLB: Who stands to lose the most before October? »
• 0-2 NFL teams with the highest chances of making the playoffs »
• Ranking 43 unbeaten teams in college football »
More ESPN+ content »
Week 2 ranking: 25
Most important backup/role player: TE Charlie Woerner
If QB Kirk Cousins is still recovering, the Falcons will rely on their running back duo of Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier to step up. For this to happen, Woerner will play a crucial role. He has previously opened up running lanes as a run-blocking specialist for Christian Mc
co
Week 2 ranking: 24
Most important backup/role player: S Brenden Schooler
Although Schooler is listed as a safety on the depth chart, his key contribution is in covering kicks and punts for special teams. In the first week, he notched three solo tackles and achieved a personal best speed of 22.4 mph, as recorded by NFL Next Gen Stats. With the Patriots’ offense lacking elite playmakers, impactful plays on special teams become crucial, and Schooler leads that effort. — Mike Reiss
0:27
Tyler Fulghum’s pick for Patriots-Jets in Week 3
Tyler Fulghum discusses why he favors the under in the Week 3 matchup between the Patriots and Jets.
Week 2 ranking: 18
Most important backup/role player: DE Darrell Taylor
To strengthen their pass rush rotation, the Bears traded a sixth-round pick to Seattle for Taylor at the end of the preseason. In the game against the Titans, he recorded two sacks, two quarterback hits, and seven tackles. Taylor has demonstrated solid run defense and has a knack for concluding his pursuit effectively. In the matchup against Houston, he illustrated his capacity to disrupt the backfield by chasing C.J. Stroud to the sideline and executing a tackle, despite Stroud completing an 18-yard pass on that play. — Courtney Cronin
Week 2 ranking: 29
Most important backup/role player: TE John Bates
Bates is positioned as the Commanders’ second tight end, primarily supporting Zach Ertz, thereby offering Washington another target in the passing game alongside rookie TE Ben Sinnott. However, Bates’ significance lies more in his blocking prowess; he has only caught one pass this season and totaled just 53 receptions in his first three years combined. As Washington aims to increase its run game, Bates’ dual capability to block both in space and at the line adds great value, making him a unique asset. — John Keim
Week 2 ranking: 20
Most important backup/role player: WR Alec Pierce
Pierce was initially projected to be the third receiver at best for the Colts this season. However, he has emerged as a significant contributor due to No. 2 wideout Josh Downs being sidelined for both weeks with an ankle injury, coupled with the inconsistencies displayed by the other receivers.
Pierce is leading the Colts with eight receptions totaling 181 yards. Having already matched his career record with two touchdown receptions, he accounted for Indy’s sole touchdown in their matchup against the Packers on Sunday. – Stephen Holder
Week 2 ranking: 27
Most important backup/role player: CB Roger McCreary
The Titans depend on McCreary for support in both passing and rushing defenses. Many sub packages feature him on the field as the nickel corner. He often matches up against slot receivers and is occasionally utilized on blitzes to apply pressure on quarterbacks. Although he stands at just 5-foot-11 and weighs 190 pounds, McCreary is vital to the Titans’ run defense, redirecting runs back inside from the edge. This third-year veteran is an effective tackler who can make plays behind the line of scrimmage, as evidenced by his four tackles for loss across two games. — Turron Davenport
1:11
Schefter: Titans will continue to ride with Will Levis
Adam Schefter joins “The Pat McAfee Show” and states that despite the Titans suffering a second loss, they will persist with Will Levis as their quarterback.
Week 2 ranking: 30
Most important backup/role player: LB Jonah Elliss
Selected in the third round this year, Elliss has quickly become one of the most influential players on the Broncos’ defense. With outside linebacker Baron Browning sidelined due to a foot injury—having left Sunday’s game without returning—Elliss is set to take on a greater role. During the preseason, he recorded two sacks and a forced fumble while effectively following the rush plan, and he notched two tackles for loss and a sack in just 24 snaps on Sunday. The Broncos will benefit from his faster-than-expected progression in understanding the game. — Jeff Legwold
Week 2 ranking: 31
Most important backup/role player: CB Dru Phillips
The rookie has excelled in the slot cornerback position. In the recent game against the Commanders, Phillips tallied 12 tackles (including two for loss) and a sack. His stop percentage of 12.8% ranks second among all slot corners after two weeks, as per NFL Next Gen Stats. Furthermore, he has allowed only five receptions for 22 yards while serving as the nearest defender in coverage, making a strong early impact for the Giants. — Jordan Raanan
Week 2 ranking: 32<img
Most important backup/role player: OL Brady Christensen
Absolutely, the Panthers are struggling in various areas, especially at quarterback, where Bryce Young’s difficulties during the first two weeks resulted in his being benched. However, if any key member of the starting offensive line were to sustain an injury, the situation could deteriorate further. Christensen has demonstrated his ability to perform as a starter at both guard and tackle, and he currently serves as the backup center for Austin Corbett. Now that’s what you call versatility. — David Newton
NFL Week 2 Review: Surprising Victories and the Importance of Backup Players
Table of Contents
- Surprising Victories in Week 2
- The Importance of Backup Players
- Key Highlights from Week 2
- Case Studies: Backup Players Shining
- Practical Tips for Fans
Surprising Victories in Week 2
This week’s NFL games brought several unexpected outcomes that left fans and analysts buzzing. Here are some of the standout surprises:
- Miami Dolphins vs. Baltimore Ravens: The Dolphins pulled off an impressive upset against the Ravens, scoring a stunning 42-38 victory. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa showcased his potential, throwing for six touchdowns.
- Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts: The Jaguars secured a narrow 24-23 win against the Colts, solidifying their status as a team to watch in the AFC South.
- New York Giants vs. Washington Commanders: The Giants managed a dramatic 21-20 comeback victory, highlighting their resilience and the impact of their backup quarterback.
The Importance of Backup Players
As the NFL season progresses, the significance of backup players becomes increasingly clear. Injuries can change the course of a team’s season, making depth a critical factor. Key reasons why backup players are essential include:
- Injury Mitigation: In a sport as physically demanding as football, injuries are inevitable. Backup players are crucial for maintaining team performance.
- Building Team Chemistry: When backups step up, they often forge stronger bonds with starters, creating a more cohesive unit.
- Unexpected Breakouts: Backup players can become stars unexpectedly, shifting the dynamics of a game and season.
Key Highlights from Week 2
| Matchup | Final Score | Notable Player |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Dolphins vs. Baltimore Ravens | 42-38 | Tua Tagovailoa (6 TDs) |
| Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts | 24-23 | Trevor Lawrence (2 TDs, 1 Int) |
| New York Giants vs. Washington Commanders | 21-20 | Tyrod Taylor (Game-winning drive) |
Case Studies: Backup Players Shining
Several backup players made headlines during Week 2, demonstrating the vital role they play in the league. Here are a few case studies:
Case Study 1: Tyrod Taylor - New York Giants
Stepping in for an injured starter, Tyrod Taylor led the Giants to a thrilling victory over the Commanders. Taylor’s experience and poise under pressure showcased the importance of having a reliable backup quarterback. His 250 passing yards and crucial game-winning drive provided the Giants with a much-needed boost.
Case Study 2: Jacoby Brissett – Washington Commanders
Although the Commanders fell short, Jacoby Brissett’s performance was commendable. Thrust into the starting role due to injury, Brissett completed over 70% of his passes, demonstrating that backup quarterbacks can step up effectively when called upon.
Case Study 3: Gardner Minshew - Indianapolis Colts
Minshew played admirably in relief of the injured starter, keeping the Colts competitive against the Jaguars. His ability to make quick decisions helped the Colts maintain offensive momentum, proving that depth is crucial in a marathon season.
Practical Tips for Fans
For NFL fans looking to better understand the dynamics of surprising victories and backup players, consider the following tips:
- Stay Informed: Follow injury reports closely to gauge how backup players might impact upcoming games.
- Watch for Trends: Pay attention to how teams perform with backup players—there may be patterns in gameplay that emerge.
- Engage with Analysts: Listen to expert analysis on the impact of injuries and the performance of backup players during broadcasts and podcasts.
Final Thoughts on Week 2
NFL Week 2 delivered not only surprising victories but also a clear reminder of the significance of backup players. As the season unfolds, teams with depth and adaptability will likely thrive in the face of adversity. With the unpredictable nature of the league, fans can expect more thrilling games ahead as backup players continue to shine in their crucial roles.
