It’s no secret that a variety of NFL players disappointed during their 2015 debut in the preseason, but that doesn’t mean fans should be worried about their potential stars.
Nevertheless, it’s always reassuring to see high-profile players start strong, and the following guys didn’t quite hit the mark in Week 1.
Tom Brady, New England Patriots
The veteran quarterback was a little busy in the days prior to a meeting with the Green Bay Packers, and Brady wasn’t crisp during limited action. He only completed one of four attempts, connecting with Brandon Gibson for a 10-yard gain. Although the Deflategate trials will continue and Brady will likely miss additional practice time, he shouldn’t need many snaps to regain a rhythm. Brady and Co. will battle the New Orleans Saints on Saturday, Aug. 22.
Melvin Gordon, San Diego Chargers
Gordon’s long-awaited NFL debut wasn’t exactly memorable. The Dallas Cowboys held the Wisconsin product to just 11 yards on six carries. Gordon was almost too patient a couple of times, but San Diego’s offensive line didn’t do him any favors, either. The Chargers return to action on Aug. 22 against the Arizona Cardinals, so Gordon will face another tough defensive test.
Eli Manning, New York Giants
Last season, Manning amassed one of the most efficient years of his career. Friday, however, wasn’t a continuation of that trend. The 34-year-old completed four of his eight passes for 22 yards, missing Odell Beckham Jr. twice. But once Manning settles into a groove and Victor Cruz returns to the field, the Giants should showcase a rather potent offense. Game No. 2 is slated for Aug. 22 versus the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Marcus Mariota, Tennessee Titans
The world is not ending. Mariota is not a bust. His debut wasn’t a complete failure. That doesn’t mean it wasn’t a little disappointing. Mariota tossed an interception—his well-documented first pick since training camp began—and lost a fumble that led to a touchdown. While Mariota rebounded nicely after the learning experiences and finished quite well, he still committed two turnovers. Yes, it’s possible to have a successful yet disappointing night. The Titans’ second outing arrives on Sunday, Aug. 23, against the St. Louis Rams.
Jameis Winston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The sky is not falling. Winston is not a bust. His debut wasn’t an abject disaster. Sound familiar? Winston, the other heralded rookie quarterback, completed a 40-yard pass to Vincent Jackson thanks to broken coverage. Other than that, though, Winston struggled against Minnesota’s first-string defense before jumping all over the second unit and finishing 9-of-19 with one interception. Winston returns to the field on Aug. 24 opposite the Cincinnati Bengals on ESPN’s Monday Night Football.