The NFL preseason doesn’t count in the standings, but for a rookie trying to carve out a career, these games are everything. Right now, all eyes are on a handful of first-year players heading into Week 2 after some eye-opening debuts.
Raiders’ QB Fernando Mendoza: Feeling the Heat?
Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick, actually had a decent first outing, going 10-of-16 for 97 yards and a touchdown. Not bad for a debut, right? But here’s the thing that’s making this situation fascinating: veteran Kirk Cousins came in and instantly led a touchdown drive on his only series, hitting 5-for-6. The real kicker for Mendoza? He completed just 2 of 6 passes when the pressure got real. That’s a stat to watch. Now, offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is bumping up Mendoza’s first-team reps before Thursday’s game against Houston. This isn’t about throwing four touchdowns; it’s about cleaner timing, faster answers when chaos erupts, and ditching those rookie moments when the first read vanishes. He needs to make that quarterback conversation uncomfortable.
Carnell Tate’s Zero-Catch Debut Demands a Response
Over in Tennessee, wide receiver Carnell Tate, the No. 4 overall pick, had a debut that’s got folks scratching their heads. He finished with zero catches on three targets. That stings even more when San Francisco’s rookie De’Zhaun Stribling, who was drafted 29 spots later, went off for seven catches and 63 yards in the same exact game. Nobody should hit the panic button just yet after three targets, but let’s be honest: the Titans drafted Tate to be Cam Ward’s explosive weapon on the outside. Week 2 needs to show us a glimpse of that connection, that chemistry he’s supposed to bring.
Sonny Styles: More Than Meets the Eye for Washington?
And then there’s Sonny Styles, the Commanders’ seventh overall pick at linebacker. His initial appearance saw him on the field for just Washington’s opening defensive series. That series? A brutal 14-play, 93-yard drive that ended in a Miami touchdown. Naturally, criticism started flying around his run fits and misdirection. But here’s where it gets interesting: film review was more forgiving. Several plays blamed on Styles actually showed him handling his assignments. That changes the narrative, doesn’t it? Week 2 isn’t about a highlight-reel interception for Styles. It’s about playing decisive football, showing *why* he belongs and how quickly he’s adapting.
The stakes are real for these rookies. Week 2 is their next big chance to silence the critics, spark some excitement, and prove they’re ready for the big show. Let’s see who steps up.
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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