Devin Lloyd just pulled off one of the biggest turnarounds we’ve seen this NFL season, going from an “ugly debut” in Week 1 to being named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 2. Seriously, what a change.
Week 1 Was a Total Disaster
Let’s be real, Lloyd’s start to the 2026 campaign was quiet, despite notching a game-high 13 tackles in Week 1. His defense gave up a franchise record in points during that opening loss to the Chicago Bears, and Daniel Popper from The Athletic straight up called his debut “ugly.” This dude just signed with the Panthers for $15 million per year in free agency, so that first game had to sting.
Then Week 2 Happened, And Holy Moly
But man, did Lloyd ever flip the script. He was “awfully loud” in Week 2, dominating the Atlanta Falcons in a 34-3 win. For that, he earned a spot on The Athletic’s list of top bounce-back performers. He was everywhere: a tipped pass that led to a Bobby Okereke interception, *two* interceptions of his own (including a pick-six!), a sack on Falcons quarterback Cooper Rush, and a tackle for loss in the run game. He racked up nine tackles, seven of them solo, with two coming for a loss against a tough Atlanta rushing attack. This is the kind of player he was for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2025, and it’s exactly why he got paid this offseason.
After that absolute clinic, Lloyd earned his second career Defensive Player of the Week nod. His first one came when he was in the AFC with Jacksonville last season. The dude did everything you could ask from a defender, and then some.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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