2026 NFL Preseason, Week 1: What We Learned from Saturday's games

Key Points:

• Keon Coleman scored the first touchdown at the new Highmark Stadium, showing promise in his third season with the Bills despite a rough previous year, finishing with three catches for 17 yards.
• Panthers’ defensive newcomers Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd impressed in the preseason opener, with Phillips recording a red-zone sack and Lloyd contributing tackles and pressure.
• Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson appeared more comfortable under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken, completing 11-of-15 passes for 126 yards, while backup quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel showed mixed performances.
• Bears' offensive coordinator Ben Johnson led a productive game without starters, with backups Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum combining for 320 passing yards and three touchdowns against the Browns' defense.
• Rams rookie quarterback Ty Simpson delivered a strong preseason performance, completing 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns, positioning himself well in the competition to be Matthew Stafford’s backup.