There’s a lot to explore, but you don’t want to miss these NFL debut matchups.
NFL Opening Week Debut Matchup
#3: Las Vegas Raiders @ Denver Broncos 4:25 PM
A victory against a division rival would be a great way for Sean Payton to restart his coaching career. General Manager George Paton hired the former New Orleans Saints Head Coach after a disastrous 2022 season. It was clear the Broncos fell short of expectations. Their blockbuster pre-season trade returned unfruitful – leaving Payton to remold the franchise. Sunday’s matchup will let fans see if the former Super Bowl-winning coach can refocus a group that squandered an opportunity.
Dave Zeigler’s front office had a busy off-season. They did not waste time finding a new home for their former four-time pro-bowler. It was time for Derek Carr to find greener pastures, and the Raiders dealt him to the highest bidder. Carr soon became the newest member of the Saints, and the Raiders became determined to sign a veteran gunslinger. They eventually agreed to a 3-year $72,750,000 deal. His leadership skills are in question, but many believe Jimmy G can get the job done in Las Vegas.
NFL Opening Week Debut Matchup
#2: Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts 1:00 PM
Rookie debuts are special. They indicate new beginnings for both the player and the organization. Chris Ballard believes his franchise is heading in the right direction. The Indianapolis Colts exchanged their first-round draft pick for Anthony Richard – a dual-threat quarterback from the University of Florida. His hard work in the off-season was enough to impress his coaching staff. Fans anticipate his career start despite Jonathan Taylor’s absence.
Developing a winning franchise begins with the quarterback position. The Colts and the Jaguars are two franchises experimenting with their versions of a franchise quarterback. A successful season could result in a divisional title. It could also eventually lead to a playoff berth. An unsuccessful campaign will send front offices to the drawing board with tough questions to answer following the season.
NFL Opening Week Debut Matchup
#1: Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons Sunday 1:00 PM
Bijan Robinson was the 8th overall pick in the 2023 draft. The Falcons expect to help Desmond Ridder gain confidence in the offense. In 2022, Atlanta ranked fifth in rush rating (90.6) and first in run blocking (83.7). A successful offensive line will help their rookie running back establish himself in an important divisional debut.
Scott Fitterer’s staff was determined to find their franchise player in the NFL Draft. Trade with the Chicago Bears gave the Panthers first dibs at the 2023 draft class. Talent filled the board, giving Carolina a bevy of options to choose from. With the first pick, the Panthers signed Bryce Young from the University of University of Alabama. They also acquired Adam Theilen, D.J. Shark, and Miles Saunders to help their new asset. Thomas Brown was named the offensive Coordinator this off-season and will also make his Panthers debut.
The NFC South was the worst division in football last season. Seventy-five percent of the division finished the campaign with a losing record. The off-season provided time for franchises to evaluate the 2023 schedule. Their long-term goals dictated what changes needed to be made. The New Orleans Saints and Tampa Buccaneers searched for answers in free agency. The Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons used the NFL Draft.