The 2026 NFL Preseason, Week 1 games provided a glimpse into the future of several teams, with some standout performances and intriguing storylines emerging. Here's a breakdown of what we learned from the action-packed weekend.
Keon Coleman's Redemption Arc
One of the most intriguing stories coming out of the Bills' win over the Panthers is the resurgence of Keon Coleman. After a rough second season, Coleman enters 2026 with questions about his future hanging over his head. However, his first touchdown at the new Highmark Stadium against the Panthers signals a potential bounce-back year. The 6-foot-3, 213-pound wide receiver showcased his physicality and sync with Josh Allen, catching three passes for 17 yards and a red-zone touchdown. This performance, coupled with positive reports from training camp, suggests that Coleman might be on the path to reclaiming his role as a key red-zone target.
Panthers' Defensive Newcomers
The Panthers' defense, which has been a source of concern in recent years, showed some promise with the introduction of free-agent signings Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd. Phillips, an edge rusher, made an immediate impact with a red-zone sack of Josh Allen, showcasing his ability to pressure the quarterback. Lloyd, a linebacker, also stood out with three tackles, one quarterback pressure, and a run stuff in limited playing time. These newcomers could be key to bolstering a defense that has struggled in recent seasons.
Deshaun Watson's Comfort in Cleveland
The Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition took an interesting turn with Deshaun Watson's performance against the Bears. Watson, who hadn't played in nearly two years, appeared more comfortable in Todd Monken's offense than under his previous head coach, Kevin Stefanski. While his outing wasn't flawless (11-of-15 passing, 26 yards), Watson's conviction in delivering passes and helping the team overcome a challenging situation is a positive sign. The competition remains open, but Watson's performance could be a factor in the Browns' quarterback decision moving forward.
Ben Johnson's Offensive Mastery
Chicago Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson demonstrated his schematic prowess without relying on starters. Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum combined for 320 passing yards and three touchdowns, showcasing Johnson's ability to craft productive game plans. This success continued when backups entered, with Ray-Ray McCloud, Salvon Ahmed, Maurice Alexander, and Scotty Miller all contributing. Johnson's offense seems to be a well-oiled machine, capable of shredding defenses even without the starting lineup.
Minnesota Vikings' QB Battle
The Vikings' quarterback competition between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy is far from over. Murray, named the Week 1 starter, completed a few short passes and led a drive that ended with a field goal. However, McCarthy struggled to find success downfield, finishing with 34 yards on 4-of-7 passing. The team's decision-making regarding their starting quarterback will be a key factor in their success this season.
Jaxson Dart's Tumultuous Outing
The Giants' Jaxson Dart experienced a tumultuous period against the Vikings, which is becoming a recurring theme in his young career. Despite a concussion scare, Dart returned to toss an on-the-run dime to Malachi Fields for a touchdown. This connection between the second-year quarterback and the rookie wide receiver could become a significant play for the Giants this season. Dart's ability to bounce back from adversity is a positive sign for his development.
Conclusion: The Preseason's Impact
The 2026 NFL Preseason, Week 1 games offered a wealth of insights into the upcoming season. From Keon Coleman's potential redemption to the Panthers' defensive reinforcements, these games set the stage for an exciting year. As the regular season approaches, teams will continue to fine-tune their strategies, and these preseason games provide a crucial opportunity for coaches to evaluate their players and make necessary adjustments.
