NFL Week 1 predictions: Upsets, fantasy sleepers, stat lines
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Betting analyst Pamela Maldonado predicts two Week 1 upsets: the New York Jets over the Tennessee Titans due to pass rush advantages, and the Denver Broncos over the Kansas City Chiefs by pressuring a recovering Patrick Mahomes.
- Analytics writer Seth Walder projects standout stat lines for three players: Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson to record 2 sacks, Jets wide receiver Adonai Mitchell to have 5 receptions and a touchdown, and Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks to tally 14 tackles.
- Fantasy football writer Eric Moody highlights three sleepers for Week 1, including Panthers WR Jalen Coker, Dolphins QB Malik Willis with strong rushing potential, and Raiders TE Michael Mayer benefiting from Brock Bowers' absence.
- Analyst Matt Bowen expects three players to find the end zone: Cowboys TE Jake Ferguson as a key red zone target, Bears RB D'Andre Swift benefiting from scoring opportunities, and Eagles WR DeVonta Smith stepping up as the No. 1 receiver.
- Analyst Ben Solak offers four wild-card predictions, including the Jets securing their first interception since 2025, an upset win by the Dolphins over the Raiders, a kickoff return touchdown due to new kickoff rules, and a dramatic game finish involving a double Hail Mary with a reversed outcome.
