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After Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season, several teams have surprised with their performances, leading to a significant reshuffle in the power rankings. The Kansas City Chiefs maintain the top spot, while teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and Los Angeles Rams find themselves struggling at 0-2. This article highlights key backup players for each team who contribute significantly to their success despite not being the primary stars.
- Surprise performances have reshaped the power rankings after Week 2.
- Several preseason top teams are struggling early in the season.
New York Giants
- Struggling to find their identity early in the season.
Carolina Panthers
- Need to improve their offensive line play.
Denver Broncos
- Need to find a way to turn around their season.
Jauan Jennings | WR
Breakout
Week 2
- Key role as a blocking receiver and chain mover.
- High run block win rate and significant contributions on third downs.
Dameon Pierce | RB
Pickup
Week 2
- Could take on a larger role if Joe Mixon is unavailable.
- Had 416 rushing yards and two touchdowns last season.
Sione Vaki | RB
Pickup
Week 2
- Brings a unique skill set to the backfield and special teams.
- Demonstrated pass-catching ability in a fake punt play.
Zach Charbonnet | RB
Pickup
Week 2
31 rec yards
1 rec TDs
14 carries
38 rush yards
- Stepping up as the starting RB while Kenneth Walker III is injured.
- Mixed results but scored a touchdown and contributed in the passing game.
Jalen Nailor | WR
Breakout
Week 2
- Maximized limited targets with two touchdowns.
- Key contributor in the passing game despite being a third receiver.
Justice Hill | RB
Pickup
Week 2
- Averaging 5 yards per carry and contributing in the passing game.
- Considered an unsung hero of the team.
Braelon Allen | RB
Breakout
Week 2
- Had a breakout game with rushing and passing touchdowns.
- Provides depth behind Breece Hall.
Skylar Thompson | QB
Pickup
Week 2
- Expected to start in Week 3 with confidence from the coaching staff.
- Has experience from last season.
Erick All | TE
Pickup
Week 2
- Emerging as a key player in the tight end rotation.
- Had significant snaps and receptions in Week 2.
Emari Demercado | RB
Pickup
Week 2
- Critical third-down back with a strong performance.
- Helped the team convert on third downs.
Jimmy Garoppolo | QB
Pickup
Week 2
- Experienced backup quarterback for the Rams.
- Could step in if Stafford misses time.
Alexander Mattison | RB
Pickup
Week 2
- Scored two touchdowns despite limited rushing yards.
- Provides depth behind rookie starter Zamir White.
Jameis Winston | QB
Pickup
Week 2
- Experienced backup in case of Watson's injury or struggles.
- Has a strong track record as a starter.
Charlie Woerner | TE
Pickup
Week 2
- Key run-blocking tight end for the Falcons.
- Can help open holes for the running game.
Alec Pierce | WR
Breakout
Week 2
8 receptions
0181 rec yards
2 rec TDs
- Emerging as a key target with injuries to other receivers.
- Leads the team in receptions and yards.
Kansas City Chiefs
- Maintaining top ranking with strong performances.
Buffalo Bills
- Improving their ranking with strong defensive performances.
San Francisco 49ers
- Struggling to maintain early season momentum.
Houston Texans
- Strong start with a 2-0 record.
Detroit Lions
- Solid backfield contributing to their success.
Philadelphia Eagles
- Need veteran players to step up as the season progresses.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Surprising start with strong defensive plays.
Los Angeles Chargers
- Improving their ranking with a strong start.
New Orleans Saints
- Climbing the rankings with solid performances.
Seattle Seahawks
- Need to rely on backup players until starters return.
Minnesota Vikings
- Surprising start with a strong offensive showing.
Pittsburgh Steelers
- Performing well with key players stepping up.
Baltimore Ravens
- Struggling to find their footing early in the season.
Dallas Cowboys
- Need to bounce back after a tough loss.
Green Bay Packers
- Finding success with strong defensive plays.
New York Jets
- Need to build on their early season success.
Miami Dolphins
- Preparing for a potential quarterback change.
Cincinnati Bengals
- Struggling to find their rhythm early in the season.
Arizona Cardinals
- Surprising start with a win despite low expectations.
Los Angeles Rams
- Need to find consistency after a rough start.
Las Vegas Raiders
- Improving with key players making contributions.
Cleveland Browns
- Need to rely on their backup quarterback for depth.
Atlanta Falcons
- Need to establish their running game for success.
Jacksonville Jaguars
- Struggling with injuries and finding their footing.
New England Patriots
- Need to improve their special teams play.
Chicago Bears
- Need to improve their pass rush for better defensive performance.
Washington Commanders
- Need to establish a stronger running game.
Indianapolis Colts
- Need to find consistency in their receiving corps.
Tennessee Titans
- Need to improve their overall team performance.